The hottest Media Substack posts right now

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The Media's Mental Gymnastics Before Election Day

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1159 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Elections Public Opinion Political Commentary Economy
  1. The media often interprets statements from public figures differently depending on their political stance. They might exaggerate comments from one side while downplaying those from another.
  2. There have been significant issues with job growth lately, with reports showing a very low number of jobs created. Most of the new jobs have been in government, which doesn't help the overall economy much.
  3. As the election approaches, media coverage tends to focus on distractions instead of important economic issues. This affects how voters perceive the situation.

As We Stare Down the Precipice, Final Ruminations

Simplicius's Garden of Knowledge • 10571 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Public Opinion Political parties Trust
  1. A significant change is happening in the political landscape, particularly with the upcoming election, which could have far-reaching consequences. Many people are anxious about whether this change will bring chaos or improvement.
  2. Major media outlets have chosen not to endorse any presidential candidate this election, which is unusual and signals a loss of confidence in the current leadership and candidates.
  3. Trust in journalists and media has fallen to alarming low levels, even below Congress. This reflects a growing disconnect between media narratives and the public's beliefs about accuracy and truth.

The Internet Needs to Be Smashed and Rebuilt

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 10189 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Internet Media Government Information Empowerment
  1. The Internet has become a barrier to understanding and access to information. It used to help people, but now it's harder to find reliable news.
  2. Many people question the trustworthiness of news sources, indicating a general distrust in media. This makes it tough to locate credible information.
  3. There's a call for a major overhaul of the Internet to make it a better tool for knowledge and empowerment again. The idea is to rebuild it from the ground up.

Note on "Timelines"

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 10237 implied HN points • 22 Feb 25
📰 News Journalism Media Information Current Events
  1. A new interactive library is being created to help people find important news documents much more easily. This project aims to gather primary sources that are often hard to locate.
  2. There is a problem with many news outlets not linking to original documents in their stories, making it tough for readers to find the truth. Having direct access to these sources can help people make better decisions.
  3. The project encourages readers to contribute by suggesting documents that deserve attention. It's a community effort to protect important information and combat the issue of disappearing online sources.

Miranda July's Lucrative Fantasies

Freddie deBoer • 14077 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Media Feminism Romance Identity
  1. Fantasies about life can often lead to disappointments. It's important to stay realistic about what to expect in a new place or lifestyle, rather than getting lost in idealized visions.
  2. The idea of 'having it all' is unrealistic for anyone, not just women. Life comes with limitations, and people need to be aware of the challenges involved in balancing career and family.
  3. Romantic ideals, like long-term relationships, provide genuine support and connection in life. Pursuing endless novelty may not lead to the happiness people expect, as the excitement can fade quickly.
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THE SHOW NOTES: Stenographers Revolt, Kamala's Employment Data Problem, & What Is Happening at CNN?

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 879 implied HN points • 01 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Government Media Campaigns Public Policy
  1. Job growth in the U.S. has slowed down a lot, with only 12,000 new jobs added in October. This is a big drop from what experts expected, which could hurt the Harris campaign's message about the economy.
  2. The White House changed a transcript to remove comments made by President Biden that insulted Trump supporters. This has caused a disagreement with the federal stenographers' office over transcript accuracy.
  3. CNN faced backlash for allowing a guest to mock JD Vance's family struggles during a discussion. This was seen as disrespectful, given the serious background of addiction in his family.

ATW Livestream Tonight at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 1703 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Government Media Policy
  1. There will be an ATW livestream event tonight at 8 PM ET, where important topics related to the FBI and national security will be discussed. It's a chance to hear insights from knowledgeable voices.
  2. Kash Patel has been confirmed as the new FBI director, and Dan Bongino is set to be the deputy director. This could impact how the FBI operates, especially in politically charged situations.
  3. The discussion will also cover the role of the Internet in news coverage and MSNBC's recent changes, which may interest those following media developments.

The Most English Man in the World

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 996 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Travel Politics Media Society History
  1. The author humorously explores British culture and customs while visiting London for the first time. They joke about misunderstandings, like 'mushy peas' being a real food and the confusion around British geography.
  2. The author learns about Sir Jacob Rees-Mogg, a prominent British politician, who is described as very traditional. They explain how he became a 'sir' through a special honor from a former prime minister.
  3. The article highlights the author's curiosity about British life and their playful approach to learning about a different culture through funny anecdotes and questions.

Garbage In/Garbage Out

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 2138 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Polling Campaigns Political parties Media
  1. The race is very close, and polls show a shift towards Trump, even if some overall numbers may be off. It's important to pay attention to these trends as Election Day nears.
  2. Biden's remark about Trump supporters being 'garbage' could be more damaging to his campaign than a comedian's joke about Puerto Rico, possibly alienating undecided voters.
  3. Early voting numbers for Democrats are concerning, especially among black voters in key states. Republicans are doing better in early voting than in previous elections.

The Failure to Secure Elections

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1378 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Media Conspiracy Legislation
  1. There have been issues with voting technology, like a glitch in Michigan that affected some voters. This has led to accusations from both sides about election integrity.
  2. Some media outlets focus on conspiracy theories without addressing real problems in the election systems, like unauthorized votes and security lapses.
  3. The debate about election security is divided, with one side feeling ignored and the other side accused of spreading falsehoods. This causes distrust in the electoral process.

How Trump will actually turn America into the 'garbage can of the world'

The Signorile Report • 1478 implied HN points • 31 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Economy Policy Government Media
  1. If Trump wins, he may give Elon Musk the power to cut $2 trillion in federal spending, which could hurt many Americans by affecting key programs like Social Security and Medicare.
  2. Companies are getting ready to raise prices due to Trump's planned tariffs on foreign goods, which could add to inflation just as it starts to ease.
  3. Overall, Trump's policies might undo the strong economy built during Biden's presidency, potentially turning the U.S. into a less favorable place for everyday people.

Top reads of the week

gender:hacked by Eliza Mondegreen • 257 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Fashion Media
  1. Check out the top reads of the week for interesting content. It's a great way to discover new ideas and topics.
  2. A 7-day free trial is available for accessing more posts and archives. You can explore a lot without any initial cost.
  3. You can subscribe to stay updated and keep reading more in-depth articles. Staying connected helps you learn new things.

Why Trump's racist rally at the Garden is a turning point in the campaign

The Signorile Report • 2917 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Campaigns Racism Media Public Opinion
  1. Trump held a rally where he and his supporters made a lot of racist and hateful comments. This event was different from his usual rallies and it shocked many people.
  2. The media reacted strongly to the rally, with major outlets labeling it explicitly as 'racist' for the first time. This attention might change how some voters view Trump as his comments may have crossed a line.
  3. There seems to be tension within Trump's campaign because of the backlash. Some strategists are worried about how these comments could affect votes, especially in states with large Latino and Puerto Rican populations.

Two steps backward

Comment is Freed • 126 implied HN points • 01 Mar 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Elections Foreign Policy Political Analysis Media
  1. Trump's meetings often feel like a drama, with him at the center trying to create the best storyline. If something isn’t working, he may just drop it and move on to another idea.
  2. Dealing with real-world politics is tricky and can take a long time, unlike in a soap opera where things happen quickly. Negotiations involve many people who want their own say.
  3. The U.S. administration's relationship with Ukraine can shift quickly, and the past week's discussions show a mix of friendly and tense moments.

P.R. Problems: Maybe I Don't Understand Politics Very Well, Actually

Welcome to Garbagetown • 1964 implied HN points • 30 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Political Rhetoric Public Opinion Party Politics
  1. Political communication often surprises people, especially when shocking statements come from unexpected places, like comedians during serious events.
  2. The media tends to focus on certain controversial remarks while ignoring larger, more dangerous political issues, which can distort public perception.
  3. Voting is crucial in determining the country's future, especially when faced with extreme political ideologies that threaten democracy and people's rights.

Exclusive: Amazon's new James Bond script

Read Max • 2529 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Policy Regulation Cryptocurrency Media
  1. Amazon now has creative control over the James Bond franchise, which worries some fans about the future direction of the films. There's a concern that Bond might lose its unique identity under a corporate-driven approach.
  2. There’s a growing debate about the rise of cryptocurrency and the potential risks involved, especially as many people have been hurt by scams. Some politicians may benefit from supporting crypto now but might need to shift to stricter regulations in the future.
  3. Many young men are investing in cryptocurrencies, aligning more with pro-crypto views, which is creating a challenge for Democrats who don't support crypto. If a market crash happens, this supportive group might quickly turn against it.

Broadcast TV: It Only Looks Dead

Life Since the Baby Boom • 1152 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Television Media Entertainment Sociology History
  1. Broadcast TV is still relevant, even with the rise of streaming services. People can watch live sports and local news without paying for subscriptions.
  2. Digital broadcasting has increased the number of channels available, including many free options that people may not know about.
  3. Older TV shows often have more depth and quality compared to many new productions. Watching them can remind us of what good storytelling looks like.

The Media is Busted

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 21299 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Government Journalism Public Opinion Policy
  1. The media is facing significant trust issues and may be failing in its responsibilities. Many people feel let down by traditional media outlets.
  2. There are concerns about unnecessary spending by government agencies on media partnerships. This has raised questions about accountability and responsible use of taxpayer money.
  3. The legacy media's reputation is suffering, and some believe it's time for a major change or even an end to its current structure. Many are frustrated with how the media has evolved over time.

Germany Opens Big Fat Pie Hole

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 8918 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government International relations Media Free speech Censorship
  1. Germany's Foreign Minister criticized the comments made by J.D. Vance about democracy in Europe. He thinks it's not okay to compare Europe to authoritarian places.
  2. There's a feeling that the political climate is changing, raising questions about what is acceptable to say in big conversations about democracy.
  3. Some people are reacting humorously to this situation, talking about the past and how it seems like the world is getting interesting again.

Here's Your Kanye West Cliff Notes

Freddie deBoer • 17079 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Music Mental health Disability Identity Media
  1. Kanye West has claimed he's not bipolar but autistic, stirring up a lot of conversation. This shows how he sometimes tackles personal issues in surprising ways.
  2. People are becoming less sympathetic toward Kanye as he shows more unstable behavior online. Critics are more focused on his actions rather than considering if his mental health influences them.
  3. There is a strange disconnect around how society views mental illness. Critics want to blame Kanye but feel conflicted about viewing him as a person influenced by his disability.

If Joan Didion wrote 'Little Drummer Girl'?

Read Max • 605 implied HN points • 23 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Film Music Media Criticism
  1. There's a new espionage novel that mixes rich settings with themes similar to Joan Didion and 'Little Drummer Girl.' It sounds intriguing for fans of deep storytelling.
  2. The roundup includes recommendations for unexpected topics like the Murdoch family and some odd mysteries, which could make for interesting reading.
  3. There’s a one-take action movie mentioned that blends suspense with gritty action, perfect for anyone who enjoys intense thrillers.

THE SHOW NOTES: Nazi Republicans, 50 Million Votes, & Kamala Cringe

Erick Erickson's Confessions of a Political Junkie • 1159 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Campaigns Political parties Public Opinion
  1. CNN has started using severe language, calling Republicans Nazis, linking them to a negative history. This creates a strong division in political discussions.
  2. 50 million Americans have voted early, showing a high level of engagement in the upcoming election. This could indicate strong turnout on election day.
  3. Kamala Harris's campaign has faced challenges, with her waiting until the last minute to showcase key moments. Her approach seems less appealing compared to other candidates.

Why people are burning Waymos

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 1881 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Protests Tech Media Culture Public Opinion
  1. Waymo vehicles were burned during protests in Los Angeles, showing strong feelings about immigration issues. People were angry enough to damage these self-driving cars as a form of expression.
  2. The situation highlights a growing connection between technology and social movements. It reflects how tech can be involved in protests and public sentiments.
  3. Various groups, including tech people and the media, reacted to these events on social media. This shows how quickly information spreads and the importance of online platforms in shaping narratives.

Why HBO's YouTube windowing strategy didn't work

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 124 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
💼 Business Media Technology Subscription Marketing Content
  1. HBO's attempt to delay posting John Oliver clips on YouTube didn't help boost views on their streaming service Max. They found that audiences are happy to wait for free content.
  2. Investing in original reporting is key for media outlets as AI grows. Those that focus on unique content will likely thrive, even as AI potentially takes some traffic.
  3. There is increasing competition in the book industry as alternatives to Amazon emerge, with readers and authors seeking more choices and less dependence on a single platform.

Tony Soprano and the Jungian Death Mother

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 2462 implied HN points • 08 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Television Psychology Literature Art Media
  1. Tony Soprano is a complex character who shows both deep flaws and a desire for change, but his life as a mafia boss makes real transformation difficult.
  2. The show portrays struggles with familial relationships, particularly the damaging influence of Tony's mother, which shapes his behavior and emotions significantly.
  3. Unlike other antiheroes in TV shows, Tony's actions often reveal a deeper horror, as he inflicts pain on loved ones not just for survival, but from a deep-seated need to manage his feelings of inadequacy.

On "Internews"

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 13541 implied HN points • 08 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Media Public Policy Journalism Censorship
  1. USAID has secretly funded a group called Internews Network with nearly half a billion dollars. This money has helped create a lot of media outreach and training for journalists.
  2. Internews Network has worked with thousands of media outlets and has produced many broadcasts that have reached millions of people.
  3. There are concerns about Internews supporting social media censorship, which raises questions about freedom of speech and information.

The Price of Mass Amusement

After Babel • 3023 implied HN points • 24 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media Technology Communication Society Philosophy
  1. Instant information from TV and social media can be misleading. It distracts us from understanding the real world and makes us think we know things when we actually don't.
  2. Mass amusement has replaced deep thinking and discussions. We're more focused on having fun than on meaningful conversations or learning.
  3. Today's media not only entertains us but also shapes our thoughts and connections. We need to be careful about how we engage with these technologies so we don't lose our ability to think critically.

Here Comes The 2020 Playbook Again!

Emerald Robinson’s The Right Way • 3710 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Voting Media Political issues Government
  1. Media is warning about delayed election results again, just like in 2020. This raises concerns about the voting process.
  2. Certain states consistently struggle to count votes quickly, which leads to suspicions about their election integrity.
  3. Voters are already experiencing issues with voting machines, raising more doubts about the fairness of the elections.

The Culture Scene Is Total Madness

The Honest Broker • 13298 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Fashion Media Trends
  1. The culture scene is changing in odd ways, like Madonna trying stand-up comedy and a Van Gogh being sold for just $50 at a garage sale. It's making people question what is really important in art and entertainment.
  2. Vinyl record sales are confusing right now. Different reports say sales are either dropping significantly or growing, leaving many unsure about the future of the music industry.
  3. Some writers on Substack are starting to sell ads, which is surprising. This could change how independent authors make money and could lead to more big brands wanting to advertise in newsletters.

Photographing an Exposé Cover Story on Varsity Cheerleading for The New York Times Magazine

In the Flash • 1638 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Photography Media Sports Athletics
  1. The article reveals that Varsity cheerleading, a major force in the cheer industry, has serious safety issues and has faced accusations of neglecting athletes' health.
  2. Access to photograph cheer events was very challenging, with many restrictions and a PR rep present at all times to control the situation.
  3. Despite frustrations during the photo shoots, creative solutions were found to achieve the desired shots, and everything eventually came together for the article.

‘I Won’t Treat Them. I’ll Kill Them.’

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2026 implied HN points • 18 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Antisemitism Healthcare Community Media Ethics
  1. Two Australian nurses were caught on camera saying they wouldn't help Israeli patients and even suggested they deserved to die. This shocking behavior raises serious concerns about medical ethics.
  2. Many Muslim community leaders in Australia have publicly defended the nurses' remarks, which has alarmed many people and sparked discussions about antisemitism in society.
  3. The situation highlights a troubling trend where extremist views seem to gain support in certain communities, raising fears about the spread of hate and discrimination.

ATW Livestream Tonight at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 2416 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Health Policy Government Media Elections Public Opinion
  1. There's a livestream event tonight at 8 PM ET where Matt and Walter will talk about important topics.
  2. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. is the new secretary of health and human services, promising transparency and honest science.
  3. The discussion will focus on COVID-19, the medical establishment's claims, and what changes might happen under his leadership.

How USAID Funded Ukraine’s Propaganda Machine. Plus. . .

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1567 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Media Foreign Policy Elections Civil Rights
  1. USAID has been involved in funding media in Ukraine, some of which reportedly suppress important stories, raising concerns about press freedom.
  2. There are ongoing legal battles in Hollywood, particularly between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, which highlight the complexities of the #MeToo movement.
  3. Recent incidents in Australia involving nurses making harmful comments highlight growing concerns about antisemitism in the country.

#209: The death of sex, 3 years later

Maybe Baby • 1058 implied HN points • 16 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Sexuality Society Politics Technology Media
  1. Culture has become less about genuine connection and more about digital interactions, which can feel unfulfilling. Many people are missing out on real emotional experiences that come from touch and presence.
  2. There's a growing tension in politics where both the left and right have problems engaging with different viewpoints. Instead of understanding each other, they often stick to their own narratives, which doesn't help anyone.
  3. Technology has taken over many aspects of life, making interactions feel faster but less meaningful. While some tech is helpful, it often alienates people from each other, making real connections harder to find.

The 99-Year-Old Film That Stops People

Animation Obsessive • 18567 implied HN points • 19 May 25
🎭️ Culture Film Animation Art History Media
  1. A film called _The Adventures of Prince Achmed_ is really special because it's the oldest animated feature still around. Even after almost 100 years, people are still amazed by its magic and creativity.
  2. The director, Lotte Reiniger, used a unique cut-out style that made her work stand out from others. Her approach was different from American cartoons, focusing more on artistic storytelling through puppetry and silhouettes.
  3. Despite the struggles during its creation and the trouble faced by her team with the rise of the Nazis, the film gained huge popularity and helped show the power of animation even in tough times.

So When Are We Allowed to Ask the Patrick Mahomes Question?

Freddie deBoer • 5321 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Football Analysis Athletes Statistics Media
  1. Patrick Mahomes has had a noticeable decline in his performance over the last two seasons, which is surprising for someone viewed as one of the best quarterbacks. People should be allowed to discuss this drop in stats and performance even if his team continues to win.
  2. Despite still being a good quarterback, his recent numbers do not match the elite standards he set earlier in his career, which raises questions about his current ability. His style of play has shifted from aggressive to more conservative, leading to fewer big plays.
  3. Sports media often avoids criticizing star players like Mahomes due to their past success and the team's winning record. However, if other quarterbacks experienced similar declines, they would likely face significant scrutiny, suggesting that it's time for a more honest conversation about Mahomes.

The Monday Media Diet with Nadine Choe

Why is this interesting? • 1387 implied HN points • 10 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media Fashion Hospitality Podcasts Literature
  1. Podcasts are great for learning and understanding different perspectives. They let you hear from interesting people in a simple and engaging way.
  2. Reading various newsletters can keep you updated on current trends, especially in hospitality and fashion. Finding unique voices in journalism makes the stories more enjoyable.
  3. Exploring your inner self, like through psychedelics, can help you understand your thoughts and reactions better. This understanding can improve your life and relationships.

Weekend Report: What's going on?

The Signorile Report • 1159 implied HN points • 26 Oct 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Political parties Media Public Opinion
  1. The Washington Post faced backlash for not endorsing Vice President Harris, as it had been planned, due to the owner's concerns about government contracts. Many people are upset about this decision.
  2. Donald Trump was late to his rally, which caused some of his supporters to leave, while Kamala Harris had a massive crowd in Texas with star guests like Willie Nelson and Beyoncé.
  3. Democrats are focusing more on state legislative races, seeing them as important for boosting their chances in the presidential election. This strategy aims to strengthen local support and influence.

Matti Friedman: The Family that Never Came Home

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 788 implied HN points • 20 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Current Events International relations Human Rights Media Social Issues
  1. A family from Israel faced a tragic loss, as the husband returned home alive but his wife and two children did not. Their deaths shocked the community, making it hard for people to accept the reality at first.
  2. On a certain day, masked individuals displayed four coffins at a ceremony in Gaza, while Israeli TV chose to show happy pictures of the deceased taken before the conflict. This highlights the stark difference in how narratives are presented in media.
  3. The piece reflects on the emotional impact of loss during war and how it can affect families, leading to deep sorrow and disbelief among their loved ones.