Sophie Cachia knows what it’s like to be piled on on the internet. She’s been sharing her life online for 13 years — first as a blogger, then an influencer and now an entrepreneur and author. Over that time she’s learnt to live with the constant criticism that comes with visibility: the comments about her body, her parenting, her relationships, her sexuality. But there was one message she couldn’t ignore. Heavily pregnant, Sophie opened a direct message accusing her of being a sexual predator — all because of the ten-year age gap between her and her partner, Maddie.
That moment forced Sophie to confront just how far people are willing to go when they think no one’s watching. Because that message wasn’t isolated — it was part of an entire ecosystem of online forums dedicated to dissecting her life. In this episode, Sophie opens up about the toll of that scrutiny, the time she hired a private investigator to uncover her trolls, and the shocking truth that one of them was a family member. This is a conversation about betrayal, resilience, and what it costs to keep showing up when there are online communities determined to tear you down.
With thanks to Sophie Cachia.
Next week, Tim Minchin joins us in studio.
The Pile-On is created and hosted by Clare Stephens.
Produced by Lize Ratliff.
For guest suggestions or feedback, message Clare on Instagram @clare.stephenss
Subscribe to Clare’s substack NQR (Not Quite Right) here.
Find her debut novel The Worst Thing I’ve Ever Done - about a young woman at the centre of a vicious online pile-on here.
Please remember you don’t have to go through this alone. Reaching out for help can feel difficult, but support is available 24/7. If you or someone you know is struggling, contact Lifeline on 13 11 14 or Beyond Blue on 1300 224 636.
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