The hottest Influence Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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The French Film That Changed Japanese Animation

Animation Obsessive • 24397 implied HN points • 02 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Film Animation History Art Influence
  1. The French film _The Shepherdess and the Chimney Sweep_ had a big impact on Japanese animation when it was released in Japan. It showed animators that animated films could be for adults, not just kids.
  2. Filmmakers like Hayao Miyazaki and Isao Takahata were inspired by the film's unique storytelling and beautiful animation style. They noted how it created a vivid world that felt real and grounded.
  3. The film influenced new ideas about how animation could express deeper themes, such as social and political issues, which changed the way Japanese animated films were made going forward.

John Coltrane's Love Is Still Supreme at Age 60

The Honest Broker • 20113 implied HN points • 07 Feb 25
🎶 Music Jazz Albums Artists Music history Influence
  1. John Coltrane was incredibly busy in 1964, recording a lot of music and practicing hard. He often practiced so much that fans would overhear him in unusual places, showing his deep commitment to music.
  2. Coltrane's album 'A Love Supreme' was more than just music; it was a gift to God and a spiritual journey for him. The album's liner notes expressed his devotion, which was quite rare in jazz at the time.
  3. Even decades after its release, 'A Love Supreme' remains influential in jazz music. Many modern musicians still draw inspiration from Coltrane's style, showing that his music continues to resonate with new generations.

Ivanka Hands the Microphone to Jared

Vicky Ward Investigates • 179 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Commentary Media Coverage Influence Election Dynamics Public Relations
  1. Ivanka might be stepping back while Jared takes the spotlight. This could mean a shift in their roles or focus.
  2. There seems to be a dynamic between Ivanka and Jared that’s worth noticing. It might show how they influence each other.
  3. People are curious about what this change means for their future plans. It raises questions about their priorities and ambitions.

Mainstream Is Now Fringe, and Fringe Is Mainstream

The Honest Broker • 30220 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media Influence Entertainment Streaming Journalism
  1. The gap between mainstream media and fringe content is closing. People now watch popular streamers and influencers way more than traditional news outlets.
  2. Legacy media companies are struggling and may not survive unless billionaires buy them. Many journalists might find it tough to work in this environment.
  3. The rise of alternative media is changing the game for all creative industries. In the future, small teams or solo creators might take on major companies in music, movies, and games.

In 2025, Your Boss Will Launch a Podcast

The Honest Broker • 21776 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media Art Entertainment Trends Influence
  1. In 2025, many companies will start their own podcasts, using them to promote themselves like infomercials. So get ready for your boss to ask you to help with that.
  2. The way businesses connect with clients is changing; some are now using podcasts as a sneaky way to hold meetings. It seems to work because people are curious when asked to join a podcast.
  3. Media companies that once tried to compete with independent platforms like Substack are now copying their model. This shows a huge shift in how content is being delivered and consumed.
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What are the checks and balances on the power of Elon Musk?

Noahpinion • 24647 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Power Oligarchy Public Policy Influence
  1. Elon Musk holds a lot of power in the U.S. political landscape, acting like an influential figure during critical government decisions. His online presence and threats can sway lawmakers, showing the power of private individuals in politics.
  2. Historically, checks and balances were designed for government leaders but not for wealthy private individuals like Musk. This raises concerns about whether the U.S. is becoming an oligarchy, where a few rich people like him have too much influence.
  3. The American people ultimately hold the power over Musk's influence. If enough people oppose his actions and lose trust in him, he could lose his sway in politics, demonstrating the importance of public opinion.

Is Curtis Yarvin 'influential'?

Read Max • 6033 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Right-wing Influence Political theory Media Ideology
  1. Curtis Yarvin, also known as Mencius Moldbug, shares controversial right-wing ideas about government and power. His thoughts are sometimes seen as extreme, but they're based on older conservative beliefs.
  2. While some powerful figures like Peter Thiel reference Yarvin, his actual influence on politics might be overstated. Many believe he provides justification for existing power rather than directly steering political actions.
  3. Yarvin himself downplays his importance, suggesting that any influence he has works through lower-level staff and thinkers rather than powerful leaders directly adopting his ideas.

Transcript - America This Week, Feb 7, 2025: "The Big Store: Politico, USAID, and Managed Reality."

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 1375 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Government Scandals Journalism Influence
  1. Mainstream media often receives significant funding from government contracts, which raises questions about their independence. It's hard to believe they can remain unbiased when they rely on such large amounts of money from the government.
  2. The money that media companies like Politico take from government sources can be seen as a form of corruption. This compromises their credibility when they report on issues like election integrity.
  3. Critics argue that publications that heavily report on political scandals should be held to high ethical standards. If they engage in questionable practices while accusing others of corruption, it undermines their trustworthiness.

Emperor Elon

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2082 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Power Leadership Influence Social media Corporate Influence
  1. Elon Musk has gained power in a unique way, without violence or conflict. He built a strong following through innovation and technology.
  2. His influence spans many industries and affects political agendas around the world. People seem to eagerly support him, almost like he's a leader.
  3. The transformation of Twitter into 'X' marked a big change, showing how Musk can reshape platforms and communities. This shift surprised many who thought it would fail.

Silicon Emperor

The Generalist • 620 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Power Historical Figures Influence
  1. Elon Musk has significant economic power, with a net worth substantially higher than rivals like Jeff Bezos. His wealth may continue to grow, possibly making him the world's first trillionaire.
  2. Musk's influence goes beyond just money; he is shaping the future through technology with companies like SpaceX and Tesla. This type of power is different from historical figures who ruled through violence or sheer force.
  3. Considering figures from the past, Musk's wealth and impact can be compared, but his concentrated power may be unmatched in the modern age, showing a new kind of influence in the 21st century.

The 'F--- You, Pay Me' Progression

Total Rec • 13440 implied HN points • 24 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Advertising Monetization Influence Authenticity
  1. Ads and content on the internet are becoming indistinguishable, blurring lines between genuine recommendations and advertisements.
  2. Marketing strategies have shifted from targeting emotions like fear and greed to creating relational and aspirational connections with consumers.
  3. The transition from authentic content creation to monetization has flooded online platforms with sponsored content, challenging the authenticity of online interactions.

What I Learned from Bob Cialdini

Remarkable People • 339 implied HN points • 28 Aug 24
💼 Business Marketing Influence Psychology Entrepreneurship Ethics
  1. Reciprocity is powerful. When you do something nice for someone, they feel compelled to return the favor. This helps build trust and strong relationships.
  2. Cialdini's six principles of influence include social proof, authority, and scarcity. Using these ideas can make your messages more effective and persuasive.
  3. It's important to use persuasion ethically. The goal should be to create a win-win situation, where everyone feels good about the outcome.

HWFO Reading List, January 2025

Handwaving Freakoutery • 282 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political theory Elections Democracy Influence Social Issues
  1. The debate around Curtis Yarvin and Peter Thiel highlights how people's connections can spark discussions about moral and political values. It's important to think critically about who we associate with and what their beliefs might mean.
  2. The illusion of democracy is argued to be valuable because it helps maintain peace and stability in society. By making people feel like they have a say, it reduces the chances of revolt.
  3. Understanding the complexities of governance can help us see that sometimes what we think is control may just be a perception. This can lead to less anxiety about political matters, even if it feels cynical.

Elon Musk’s DOGE—Now the “USDS”—Is a Dangerous Shadow White House

Proof • 113 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Political Power Cryptocurrency Influence Government Technology
  1. Elon Musk has gained significant control over the U.S. government through the USDS, which he is likened to being a co-president. This gives him a lot of power that can influence national decisions.
  2. Donald Trump is said to have ended DOGE to boost Musk's influence in the country, showing a shift in how cryptocurrency and politics are intertwined.
  3. The situation raises concerns about the power dynamics in the government, especially regarding how a private individual can wield such authority over public policy.

My Smartphone Was Ruining My Life. So I Quit.

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 936 implied HN points • 03 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Social media Mental health Personal Experience Influence Art
  1. Social media can create a false sense of connection, making people feel isolated even with many followers. It's easy to focus on appearances rather than real relationships.
  2. Taking a break from smartphones and social media can be liberating. Disconnecting can help you find clarity and happiness away from constant online pressures.
  3. Personal well-being should come first. Prioritizing mental health over online validation is important for a fulfilling life.

5 Frameworks To Master Communication And Influence As An Engineer

High Growth Engineer • 1415 implied HN points • 10 Nov 24
💼 Business Leadership Communication Influence Startups Career development
  1. Understanding communication styles is key to being effective as an engineer. Knowing how to adapt your message can help get your point across better.
  2. Influence is about more than just speaking well; it's also about building relationships. Strong connections can lead to better collaboration and teamwork.
  3. Mastering executive communication can help you lead better and get your ideas heard. It's important to practice and refine these skills regularly.

SCOTUS Has Alito Problem

The Status Kuo • 10554 implied HN points • 21 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Ethics Corruption Supreme Court Influence Justice
  1. Justices like Alito coming under scrutiny for undisclosed relationships with billionaires and potential influence on Court decisions
  2. Alito went on a fishing trip to Alaska with a billionaire, Paul Singer, who had cases before the Supreme Court, raising concerns about impartiality
  3. Attempts by Alito to defend his actions and relationship with Singer through an OpEd seem unconvincing and raise doubts about ethical conduct

Utah Bathroom Ban Goes To Senate For A Final Vote, Could Force Genital Exams If Accused

Erin In The Morning • 4147 implied HN points • 23 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Opposition Implications Support Influence
  1. Utah bill may charge transgender individuals for using bathroom of their gender identity.
  2. Opposition to the bill includes concerns about invasive genital exams for transgender people.
  3. The bill would ban legal recognition and have implications for cisgender individuals as well.

Young Men Are in Crisis Mode, Fox News Abandons Pretense of News, Southern Baptists Boot Women, School Superintendent Boots Education, AI Can Make You Lonely and Drink, Gerry & The Pacemakers Sing

kareem • 6230 implied HN points • 19 Jun 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Society Gender Media Leadership Influence
  1. Young men are facing challenges in society in terms of finding their identity and facing societal expectations.
  2. Income potential is still seen as a measure of worth for young men, impacting their views on attracting women.
  3. Many public figures may not be providing positive guidance for young men, perpetuating toxic masculinity and harmful behaviors.

Op-Ed: Is TikTok too big to fail in the US?

The PhilaVerse • 123 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Policy Economy Technology Culture Influence
  1. TikTok has a huge impact on the creator economy and many people rely on it for income. If it were banned, creators and small businesses would struggle to find new ways to make money.
  2. Banning TikTok would also hurt advertising for brands that target younger users. They would have to spend more on other platforms, which could increase costs for businesses.
  3. TikTok influences trends in music, fashion, and more. If it disappeared, there might be a gap in how trends are shared, and it would take time for other platforms to fill that role.

When Japanese Animation Cracked the Oscars

Animation Obsessive • 6099 implied HN points • 11 Mar 24
🎨 Art & Illustration Animation Film Creative industry Influence
  1. Japanese animation made a significant impact at the Oscars when 'Spirited Away' won in 2003, marking the full acceptance of Japanese animation into Hollywood's mainstream.
  2. Koji Yamamura's film 'Mt. Head' brought Japanese independent animation into the spotlight, showcasing a unique style and storytelling approach that influenced a new generation of animators globally.
  3. The animation world mourned the passing of Akira Toriyama, a legendary manga artist known for 'Dragon Ball,' whose work has had a lasting impact on global animation and storytelling.

Cut-ups

Dada Drummer Almanach • 72 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🎶 Music Genres Artists Composition History Influence
  1. Can was a unique rock band formed in 1968, made up of musicians with diverse backgrounds in classical music, jazz, and even astrology. They aimed to create spontaneous music that broke traditional boundaries.
  2. Their approach involved improvisation and experimentation, often pushing the limits of what rock music could be. This made their albums innovative and influential on many modern artists.
  3. One of the band's interesting practices was to leave their instruments recording in a room to capture unexpected sounds, showing their commitment to spontaneity and creativity in music.

Artemisia of Caria

Classical Wisdom • 2063 implied HN points • 26 May 23
💾 History Ancient Greece Influence
  1. Artemisia of Caria was a fascinating and feared figure in history, known for her cunning tactics and subterfuge in naval battles.
  2. Artemisia's advice to Xerxes before the Battle of Salamis was disregarded, potentially changing the course of history if he had listened.
  3. Artemisia's legacy as a strong-willed queen, conqueror, and commander challenges the norms of her time when women were often encouraged to remain anonymous.

What Is An Elite?

Castalia • 299 implied HN points • 27 May 24
🎭️ Culture Social Status Education Influence Wealth
  1. Being elite can come from different paths, like being born into wealth or status. It’s like having a hidden head start in life compared to others.
  2. Education plays a big role in elite status, especially through prestigious schools. Many people with elite backgrounds invest heavily in their children's education, making it harder for others to catch up.
  3. Money is a major factor for entering elite circles, but it doesn't always guarantee acceptance. Some people get influence and status through connections and public roles rather than just wealth.

Lessons from The Years of Lyndon Johnson by Robert Caro

Dwarkesh Patel • 1592 implied HN points • 03 May 23
📚 Literature Biography Power Manipulation Empathy Influence
  1. To succeed, go beyond the norm and do everything necessary with intensity and attention to detail.
  2. Ambition can lead to unexpected alliances and outcomes as seen in the political career of Lyndon Johnson.
  3. Understanding and reading people is key in wielding power and influence, as exemplified by Johnson's ability to empathize and manipulate for his goals.

"Knowledge is the novel’s only morality."

Sucks to Suck • 1533 implied HN points • 15 Jul 23
📚 Literature Novels Authors Themes Characters Influence
  1. Knowledge is the novel's only morality according to Milan Kundera, suspending moral judgment is the novel's wisdom.
  2. Milan Kundera introduced a skeptical psychological view of humanity, emphasizing introspection over projection.
  3. Kundera's work delves into the importance of memory, the relationship between slowness and memory, and the nature of friendships and secrets.

If You Didn't Comply During COVID You're a Psychopath

Break Free with Karen Hunt • 1454 implied HN points • 02 Jul 23
🏥 Health & Wellness Psychology Mental health Medication Influence History
  1. Psychologists can label non-compliance during COVID as psychopathy, justifying 'fixing' individuals as they see fit.
  2. The power dynamics post-COVID have allowed for the manipulation and control of citizens, using psychology as a weapon.
  3. Psychiatry and psychology have a history of coercion, drugging, and inhumane treatments towards those deemed non-compliant or ill.

The Spy Travel Edition

Why is this interesting? • 1085 implied HN points • 07 Mar 24
🏝 Travel History Guides Authors Influence
  1. The U.S. government had a significant influence on the creation of modern American travel guides through literal spies like Eugene Fodor and Temple Fielding.
  2. Eugene Fodor, a successful guidebook publisher, was an officer for the CIA's predecessor during WWII and continued to use spies as writers for his company.
  3. The travel industry has evolved from its CIA roots to offer guides catering to various interests and lifestyles, providing valuable insights into different cultures beyond borders.

Iasos

Flow State • 589 implied HN points • 11 Jan 24
🎶 Music Composer Albums Influence Biography
  1. Iasos was a Greek-American new age music composer who had a significant impact on the genre.
  2. He released albums like 'Inter-Dimensional Music' and 'Essence of Spring' which are known for their unique sound.
  3. Iasos passed away at the age of 77 but his music continues to inspire many listeners.

Announcing: Re-launching "Impact through Influence"

The Caring Techie Newsletter • 9 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Engineering Leadership Influence Education Career growth
  1. The course 'Impact through Influence' focuses on helping tech professionals build their influence without needing formal authority. It's great for engineers who want to lead and motivate their teams.
  2. Participants will learn how to build their reputation, foster trust, and persuade others effectively. The course includes practical exercises to apply what you learn in real situations.
  3. This re-launch includes new features like hands-on exercises and cheat sheets for every module. It's designed to make the content more accessible and directly applicable to everyday challenges.

How Eric Clapton got "Bell Bottom Blues" and wooed away George Harrison's "Layla"

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 179 implied HN points • 22 May 24
🎶 Music Rock Artists Albums History Influence
  1. Eric Clapton wrote many songs for Pattie Boyd, who was originally married to George Harrison. His famous songs like 'Layla' and 'Bell Bottom Blues' were inspired by his love for her.
  2. The band Derek and the Dominos formed when Eric was struggling with his feelings for Pattie. They recorded an album that was initially not very successful but later became a classic.
  3. Pattie felt a lot of pressure being a muse for two rock stars. She eventually left George and married Eric, but their relationship had its challenges.

The Data Team Playbook: 50+ Resources For High-Performing Data Teams

SeattleDataGuy’s Newsletter • 836 implied HN points • 14 Mar 24
🕹 Technology Data Infrastructure Talent Acquisition Communication Influence
  1. Starting a career as a data team manager involves challenges and new skills, with resources like books to aid in the transition.
  2. Assisting team members in their career growth involves sharing helpful articles, guides, and videos.
  3. Improving project management, team culture, and communication are key elements in running successful data teams.

The Profile Dossier: Amaryllis Fox, the ex-CIA agent performing the most clandestine operations

The Profile • 2300 implied HN points • 01 Mar 23
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Influence Empathy Conflict resolution Authenticity Humanity
  1. Amaryllis Fox emphasized the importance of listening to disarm the enemy.
  2. Fox highlighted the power of relationships and in-person interactions for understanding people's fears and motivations.
  3. Fox stressed the significance of recognizing each other's humanity and finding common ground through empathy and respect.

"Sunny" - The inspired song that has, in turn, inspired so many other artists

Rock 'n' Roll with Me • 199 implied HN points • 26 Apr 24
🎶 Music Songwriting Influence History Performance Production
  1. Bobby Hebb's song 'Sunny' became a huge hit in 1966 and has been covered by over 500 artists. Its unique sound influenced many songs across different genres.
  2. The inspiration for 'Sunny' came to Bobby after a personal tragedy and seeing a beautiful sunrise, showing how powerful creativity can arise from tough times.
  3. Bobby's career was deeply influenced by his musical family and key figures in music, highlighting the importance of support and mentorship in achieving success.