I Might Be Wrong

I Might Be Wrong combines comedy, politics, and social commentary, frequently touching on sensitive and controversial topics. It critiques current events, cultural movements, and public figures through satire and humor, encouraging readers to question mainstream narratives and explore alternative viewpoints on various issues.

Comedy and Satire Political Commentary Social Critique Media and Journalism Cultural Movements Public Figures and Celebrity Culture International Relations Higher Education and Student Debt Technology and Social Media Workplace Culture

The hottest Substack posts of I Might Be Wrong

And their main takeaways
11 implied HN points โ€ข 27 Feb 25
  1. Substack writers are humorously required to send five easy pasta recipes by a certain deadline. If they donโ€™t, there's a funny threat of being shot out of a cannon.
  2. The writer presents a comical and exaggerated tone, implying that gathering recipes is straightforward and shouldn't take long.
  3. There's a playful mention of using AI to evaluate the recipes submitted, showing how technology can add a twist to a lighthearted demand.
5 implied HN points โ€ข 28 Feb 25
  1. The idea that Trump is a great negotiator is not true and needs to be put to rest. His tactics often seem more like intimidation than skillful negotiation.
  2. Trump's attempt to pressure Ukraine for a deal was like trying to force someone to buy something at a ridiculous price, and it backfired.
  3. Despite the controversial methods, a new agreement between the US and Ukraine is happening, but the morality of shaking down a struggling country is a big concern.
14 implied HN points โ€ข 26 Feb 25
  1. Bluesky, a social media platform, is gaining users from Twitter, especially among left-leaning people. But some think it isn't a good alternative for healthy political discussion.
  2. The platform is criticized for being overwhelming with progressive views, comparing it to being on a wild drug trip. This suggests that it might not be beneficial to political discourse.
  3. The future of social media is uncertain, especially for Twitter, as people keep searching for better platforms. However, Bluesky might not be the answer many are looking for.
5 implied HN points โ€ข 25 Feb 25
  1. Connecting with your audience is key to successful comedy. When you talk about things they care about, they will enjoy your performance more.
  2. Using relatable topics, like parenting, can help you gain audience interest more easily. Everyone has their own experiences that can be funny or touching.
  3. Once you have the audience's attention, keep your material fresh and original to maintain their interest. It's important to strike a balance between being relatable and unique.
17 implied HN points โ€ข 20 Feb 25
  1. Making mistakes is something everyone does, and it's important to admit when you're wrong and to learn from it.
  2. The relationship between Ukraine and Russia is complicated, and some argue that Ukraine's actions have been aggressive and unjustified.
  3. People should consider the consequences of supporting any country seen as an aggressor, as it could impact international stability in other regions.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:
13 implied HN points โ€ข 21 Feb 25
  1. Being part of a liberal community often comes with being self-aware and critical of oneself. It's okay to recognize when you might fit a stereotype.
  2. The Ukraine invasion highlights a moral need for the U.S. to support Ukraine against authoritarian aggression, reinforcing American interests.
  3. It's possible to have strong opinions while also feeling like you're just playing a role that others expect of you, especially in a politically charged environment.
12 implied HN points โ€ข 18 Feb 25
  1. Elon Musk seems to think he's in a really important moment, like during the French Revolution when they abolished feudalism. He feels like heโ€™s paving the way for big changes, but it's essential to recognize that not everything radical becomes a success.
  2. People often want to be part of something historical or monumental, which can lead to unrealistic expectations. Just like the excitement of starting a new project, it can be easy to overlook the hard work and details needed to achieve real results.
  3. Reality tends to catch up with enthusiasm. After the initial hype, like what happened after the French delegates celebrated their victory, serious questions and challenges arise that need to be addressed.
67 implied HN points โ€ข 21 Jan 25
  1. Free speech, color blindness, and meritocracy have become associated with the right, even though they used to be core liberal values. It's surprising how politics has shifted these concepts.
  2. Many people on the left feel that America is fundamentally flawed, which can overshadow the progress that's actually been made. This mindset can lead to dismissing positive changes.
  3. Some radical left ideas don't reflect the views of the people they claim to advocate for, causing confusion and debate within the community about what true beliefs should be.
25 implied HN points โ€ข 06 Feb 25
  1. Elon Musk's team is trying to find ways to cut a massive budget deficit, but suggestions like eliminating a small agency won't make a real difference.
  2. Young and inexperienced teams can bring fresh ideas, but they might also lack the courage to challenge big figures when things don't add up.
  3. Real budget solutions will likely involve tough decisions like tax increases or cuts to popular programs, which are often avoided in flashy discussions.
6 implied HN points โ€ข 19 Feb 25
  1. Democrats need to focus on real issues that matter to people, like the challenges of daily life. Voters want solutions that help them achieve their goals.
  2. Messages that resonate include addressing high costs and job dissatisfaction. It's important for politicians to connect with what people are really experiencing.
  3. Being honest and genuine in messaging can be a good strategy. If a message is true and addresses real concerns, it can be more effective.
9 implied HN points โ€ข 14 Feb 25
  1. The switch from plastic to paper straws has not been well-received by the public. Many people find paper straws frustrating and ineffective.
  2. The straw ban was seen by some as a way to raise awareness for larger environmental issues, but it often felt like a trivial focus.
  3. Having celebrities like Adrian Grenier as spokespeople for such movements can make them seem less serious or impactful to the public.
10 implied HN points โ€ข 13 Feb 25
  1. Funding cuts can greatly affect projects and initiatives. Losing a major funding source can lead to the cancellation of planned activities and changes in future goals.
  2. Creative and provocative content can be put on hold or altered when financial realities change. This can include unique or controversial series that rely on funding to be produced.
  3. Adapting to new circumstances often requires scaling back ambitions. Organizations may need to rethink their events and outreach programs when facing budget constraints.
17 implied HN points โ€ข 04 Feb 25
  1. Recent tariffs between the US and Canada seemed pointless and were lifted without gaining anything significant. This shows how negotiations can sometimes yield very little.
  2. Trump's approach to tariffs might harm America's economic credibility in the long run. It's like he's playing a game but doesn't understand the rules properly.
  3. Congress can step in and clarify the rules about tariffs to prevent future chaos. They should take control to keep things stable and effective.
13 implied HN points โ€ข 07 Feb 25
  1. Democrats could focus on competence as their main message to counter political opposition. This means promoting the idea that effective problem-solving is essential for government.
  2. Trump's chaotic leadership style is not beneficial for the public. Emphasizing the need for a reliable and skilled leader could resonate with voters looking for real solutions.
  3. Past discussions around hiring the best person for a job being labeled as racist may complicate the message about competence. Finding a balance in this conversation is important.
7 implied HN points โ€ข 12 Feb 25
  1. Trump's strategy with tariffs might be complicated, but it could also be based on game theory, similar to poker. This means he could be pressuring others to make concessions while playing a risky game.
  2. Nate Silver argues that Trump could be using a rational approach to tariffs, where he leverages his power against weaker opponents. The idea is that sometimes the stronger player can force the weaker player to back down or give in.
  3. However, relying on incorrect strategies can lead to failure. If Trump's inputs are wrong, his rational approach could result in negative outcomes for America.
7 implied HN points โ€ข 11 Feb 25
  1. Comedy is meant to be fun, not a serious career path. If you're doing it just for enjoyment, that's what counts.
  2. Taking a comedy class can be helpful, but it's not necessary. Many successful comedians never took classes at all.
  3. The new Komedy Klass is a free resource where you can share your comedy work and get positive feedback, making it a supportive space.
34 implied HN points โ€ข 14 Jan 25
  1. Mark Zuckerberg's recent changes at Meta show a shift away from liberal values. He seems to be aligning more with conservative views, which surprises many who expected him to stick with progressive causes.
  2. Thereโ€™s a lot of speculation about why Zuckerberg has turned against the left. Some think it could be from years of harsh criticism, while others wonder if it's a strategic move to gain favor with the right.
  3. The ongoing tension between tech leaders like Zuckerberg and public opinion highlights a complex relationship. Despite past support for progressive ideas, the reactions from the left might have pushed him in a different direction.
15 implied HN points โ€ข 28 Jan 25
  1. Naming landmarks and schools after one person, like Ken Griffey, Jr., could simplify the naming confusion we have today. It might help everyone agree on a common name and stop the constant changes.
  2. Ken Griffey, Jr. is seen as a positive figure in baseball, known for his talent and strong character. Naming things after him could symbolize a better choice compared to some controversial names from history.
  3. This idea of renaming everything might seem silly, but it highlights the ongoing cultural debates we face. Finding a humorous solution could help take the edge off these serious discussions.
9 implied HN points โ€ข 05 Feb 25
  1. We have a responsibility to help others in need, just like we would save a drowning child, even if it's inconvenient for us. Helping others shouldn't depend on whether someone else is doing it too.
  2. Thinking about charity should focus on our obligations to help, rather than questioning if we should care about people far away. Our compassion should guide our actions.
  3. Discussions about aid, like those involving organizations such as USAID, often lack depth. We need to critically evaluate the impact and effectiveness of our help.
11 implied HN points โ€ข 30 Jan 25
  1. A new AI chatbot called DeepSeek is improving and could be a threat to writers. It shows a better grasp of comedy than previous AI versions, making some writers concerned about their future.
  2. The AI's attempts at humor mimic certain styles but still struggle with logic and factual accuracy. It can copy formats and jokes, but often misses the mark on meaningful analysis.
  3. Despite the AI's growing capabilities, it lacks a true understanding of context or truth, which means human writers still have an edge when it comes to creating content that makes sense.
10 implied HN points โ€ข 31 Jan 25
  1. Mitch McConnell's childhood experience with polio makes him cautious about anti-vaccine sentiments. He knows firsthand the damage diseases can cause.
  2. Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s nomination is controversial due to his strong anti-vaccine views. Many worry about the impact on public health if he takes office.
  3. Confirmation hearings should focus on qualifications rather than personal grudges. McConnell needs to separate his feelings from the professional responsibilities of evaluating Kennedy.
11 implied HN points โ€ข 29 Jan 25
  1. It's important to be careful with words when describing political leaders. Saying a president is a 'fascist' can lose meaning if used too often.
  2. When a president tests their limits with power, it may worry many people. It's like testing boundaries, similar to how a child might push limits.
  3. Both political sides can overreact. Using extreme language doesn't help the conversation and can make you seem less credible.
12 implied HN points โ€ข 23 Jan 25
  1. Trump has shown an unusual admiration for President William McKinley, frequently mentioning him in speeches and calling him underrated. This is surprising because McKinley is not a common figure of praise among modern politicians.
  2. Trump believes that McKinley's tariffs significantly contributed to America's wealth, but many experts think this is a misunderstanding. Economic growth during that time was influenced by several factors, not just tariffs.
  3. McKinley's views on tariffs changed while he was in office, suggesting that his original ideas might not have been as set in stone as Trump claims. This highlights how historical interpretations can vary over time.
21 implied HN points โ€ข 07 Jan 25
  1. Public spaces like subway systems need rules to keep them enjoyable and safe for everyone. Loud music can be very annoying, and it's already against the rules to play it without headphones.
  2. Making sure these rules are enforced helps maintain order and keeps public transport functional. If people break the rules without consequence, it can lead to more serious problems.
  3. Rules exist to protect everyone, not just to punish individuals. A small fine for breaking a noise rule isn't life-ruining and can actually help keep public areas nicer for everyone.
15 implied HN points โ€ข 16 Jan 25
  1. Without grades, college can become a joke, leading many students to slack off instead of genuinely engaging with learning. Itโ€™s important to have some accountability to encourage real effort.
  2. Professors often pass students regardless of their actual participation or effort, which undermines the purpose of education and makes it hard to assess true performance.
  3. To improve education, grades need to mean something again so that employers can better understand which students truly excel and which do not. Making grades meaningful is a better alternative than removing them altogether.
14 implied HN points โ€ข 17 Jan 25
  1. A lot of TikTok users are moving to a Chinese app called Xiaohongshu after being upset about bans. It's funny to think that they're going to a Chinese-owned app when they were worried about China.
  2. Chinese users of Xiaohongshu are surprised and a bit frustrated to see so many English videos popping up. They didn't expect so many Americans to join their platform.
  3. This situation kind of feels like a playful prank, where American users are now amping up the chaos in a place they never thought would happen. It's like a funny surprise attack on the Chinese app scene.
10 implied HN points โ€ข 24 Jan 25
  1. The Gaza War isn't officially over, even with a ceasefire in place. People need to understand what a ceasefire really means; it's just a break, not a permanent solution.
  2. Many protesters use strong words like 'genocide' and 'apartheid' without really knowing their meanings. Itโ€™s important to know what these terms actually define.
  3. Negotiations for the future are set to start soon, but there are still many complex issues to deal with. This means that fighting could easily resume once the ceasefire ends.
61 implied HN points โ€ข 19 Nov 24
  1. There's a claim that some academic sources prove there's no competitive advantage for trans women in sports, but these sources might not be as strong as they seem. It's important to be cautious about where such information comes from.
  2. Many people feel distrustful of institutions like government and media because they sometimes spread confusing or contradictory information. This can make it hard for people to know what to believe.
  3. Activists are often trying to push their point of view, but if others in power repeat these views without evidence, it can further hurt the credibility of institutions and confuse the public even more.
23 implied HN points โ€ข 24 Dec 24
  1. Steve Martin's monologue is a great example of comedy because it uses clever writing without relying on props or impressions. It's just him talking, and that's what makes it timeless.
  2. The structure of the monologue follows a clear pattern: it sets up a funny idea, builds on it, and then escalates to an unexpected and absurd conclusion. This keeps the audience engaged and laughing.
  3. Good comedy writing is efficient; it gets to the funny part quickly, develops it well, and finishes strong without extra fluff. Martin excels at this in his performance.
10 implied HN points โ€ข 15 Jan 25
  1. Some people try to act tough in urban settings to impress others or seem interesting. They might feel insecure about their boring hometowns and want to create a different identity.
  2. The 'Urban Tough Guy' persona often comes from a desire to stand out in a world that seems more exciting than their own life. It's a way to cope with feelings of inadequacy.
  3. This attitude can lead to unrealistic expectations about urban life, making it seem like only the strong survive, when in reality, safety and community matter more.
7 implied HN points โ€ข 22 Jan 25
  1. TikTok is under scrutiny for its data collection practices, raising concerns about privacy and security. It's important to understand what information TikTok gathers from its users.
  2. There is a big debate about whether social media companies should be seen as publishers or platforms. This classification affects potential regulations and legal responsibilities.
  3. The situation with TikTok highlights issues related to government control and influence over social media. It's a complicated topic that mixes technology, privacy, and politics.
12 implied HN points โ€ข 08 Jan 25
  1. Jacobin magazine published a wildly incorrect statistic about Blackstone owning a large portion of U.S. houses, leading to a lot of criticism. It's important to check facts before sharing numbers, especially big claims.
  2. The actual ownership by Blackstone is much smaller than claimed, showing how misinformation can spread easily. Even big publications can make serious mistakes when they don't verify.
  3. Reading the article gave new insights into why some people might be drawn to communism, even if the statistics are wrong. Understanding different viewpoints helps us discuss these issues better.
14 implied HN points โ€ข 03 Jan 25
  1. Many people feel frustrated with the slow processes that delay housing and infrastructure projects. They want things to move faster so that communities can improve.
  2. There's a concern that building new housing might change the character of some neighborhoods. People worry about gentrification and displacing existing residents.
  3. More housing could help make neglected areas more livable. It could also lower rents and improve safety instead of letting decay continue in those neighborhoods.
9 implied HN points โ€ข 09 Jan 25
  1. If Greenland were to become a state, it wouldn't make sense for it to be prioritized over Washington, DC and Puerto Rico, which have larger populations and are already part of the U.S.
  2. Washington, DC has been paying federal taxes and has served in the military, showing a solid commitment that supports its case for statehood.
  3. Many of the arguments against DC and Puerto Rico becoming states seem politically motivated, rather than based on fair criteria, as these areas meet basic requirements for statehood.
13 implied HN points โ€ข 26 Dec 24
  1. The author expresses strong dislike for Paul McCartney's song 'Wonderful Christmastime', claiming it's a terrible piece of music. They feel it negatively impacts their enjoyment of the holiday season.
  2. They argue that by continuing to include this song, Spotify is being complicit in promoting bad music. The author believes a choice must be made between their content and the song.
  3. Despite loving The Beatles, the author finds it disappointing that McCartney created such a song. They hope to disassociate themselves from 'Wonderful Christmastime' out of personal conviction.
8 implied HN points โ€ข 10 Jan 25
  1. People affected by disasters donโ€™t need to hear dumb comments online. It makes their situation even harder.
  2. Social media often spreads wrong ideas and blame instead of focusing on helping victims. It's important to be sensitive during crises.
  3. Both political sides sometimes oversimplify complex issues, which leads to unfair blame. Itโ€™s crucial to understand the whole picture before making claims.
10 implied HN points โ€ข 31 Dec 24
  1. Applerankings.com offers honest reviews of apples without any fluff. It's refreshing to find a site that prioritizes truth over pleasing the apple industry.
  2. There are new drugs like Ozempic that might help people lose weight and improve health. This could lead to better overall health and savings in healthcare costs.
  3. Saturday Night Live is still producing enjoyable content with big-name guests and fun sketches. It feels like a nostalgic throwback to the show's earlier, funnier days.
13 implied HN points โ€ข 19 Dec 24
  1. Recently, strange flying objects have been spotted in New Jersey, causing a lot of buzz and confusion among locals. Many people joked around trying to figure out if they were drones, aliens, or just planes.
  2. Rumors spread quickly on social media, with citizens flooding a Facebook group about the mystery. Despite various tips sent to authorities, it turned out most sightings were easily explained, like airplanes and stars.
  3. Politicians jumped into the conversation, making some silly statements and fueling conspiracy theories. In the end, it was just a case of overactive imaginations and a good dose of humor about the situation.
18 implied HN points โ€ข 03 Dec 24
  1. Choosing to pardon someone close to you, like a family member, can raise eyebrows and lead to accusations of hypocrisy. In politics, actions often speak louder than words, and if you're caught in contradictions, it can hurt your reputation.
  2. Once you've made major mistakes in your career, especially in politics, it might feel like you can't recover your legacy. Some people may think any further blunders wonโ€™t change much because the damage is already done.
  3. Sometimes, you embrace the chaos and just go for it. If you feel your reputation is already tarnished, you might as well take risks and live life without holding back.
10 implied HN points โ€ข 25 Dec 24
  1. Syria is now seeing a leadership change that many believe is an improvement over the past. People are surprised that the new group might actually be better than what was previously in charge.
  2. Hezbollah and Hamas, two major groups in the region, are facing serious setbacks. There's a feeling of relief as these groups become less powerful and more fearful.
  3. The situation with Iran's proxy groups, like the Houthis, is still tense. Their attempts to provoke Israel seem reckless and dangerous without solid backing.