The hottest Media Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 2058 implied HN points 26 Jan 25
  1. Free speech is very important right now, more than just political policies. People should feel safe to express their opinions without worry.
  2. There are many big questions about current events, like the truth about January 6 and climate change. We need to discuss them openly instead of being scared to answer.
  3. The debates we have today are deeply divided and complicated. It's necessary to ask tough questions to understand each other better.
Subconscious 988 implied HN points 05 Jun 25
  1. Cities act like routers in our connected world, linking people and resources together. They help create community and make life easier.
  2. Internet and networks change how power and information flow. Unlike old broadcast systems that focus on a center, networks spread connections widely.
  3. With new technology, many people are becoming digital nomads. They can work from anywhere, making cities hubs for gatherings and shared experiences again.
Simon Owens's Media Newsletter 124 implied HN points 17 Dec 25
  1. Being the main English-language outlet on the ground during Russia’s invasion brought massive global attention and traffic.
  2. They turned international sympathy into income by shifting from one-off donations to a Guardian-style membership model without using a paywall, growing recurring revenue.
  3. They’ve also started producing longform documentaries as part of their editorial and revenue strategy.
Maybe Baby 685 implied HN points 01 Aug 25
  1. Surveillance on the internet is impacting people's feelings about intimacy and eroticism. It's making things feel less personal and more categorized.
  2. To bring back a sense of eroticism, we need to challenge how we define relationships and connections online. It's important to seek deeper connections rather than just surface-level interactions.
  3. The mention of a 'curse' highlights how sometimes people may feel overwhelmed by bad luck or difficulties in life. It’s a reminder that everyone has tough days and it’s okay to vent about them.
Get a weekly roundup of the best Substack posts, by hacker news affinity:
Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter 2687 implied HN points 22 Nov 24
  1. Live streaming is gaining popularity and becoming a larger part of how we consume media. More people are looking for communal experiences online.
  2. Kai Cenat's recent subathon has broken records and shows the strong connection between streamers and their audiences. His success highlights a shift in how we engage with entertainment.
  3. Various platforms like YouTube Gaming, Kick, and TikTok Live are growing, leading to more options and diversity in live streaming. This change shows that viewers are exploring different types of content and creators.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2156 implied HN points 12 Jan 25
  1. It's not fair to expect the Global South to fight against powerful empires for us. We need to take responsibility ourselves.
  2. The current empire is strong and won't easily fall just because some resist. Change may take a long time and we have to be patient and realistic.
  3. We have the tools and ability to create awareness and drive change in our own societies. It's important to help others see the need for a better world.
Life Since the Baby Boom 2075 implied HN points 19 Jan 25
  1. Censorship has existed for a long time. In the past, it was about avoiding upsets with powerful figures like Stalin, and today it can involve platforms suppressing certain views to not offend certain groups.
  2. George Orwell's work, like 'Animal Farm', still applies today. His message about free speech and censorship resonates with ongoing debates about what opinions are allowed in society.
  3. There are parallels between past and present politics. Just like Orwell faced backlash for criticizing the USSR, current tech leaders can face criticism for their decisions that some see as siding with extreme viewpoints.
Why is this interesting? 1990 implied HN points 21 Jan 25
  1. Reading about history can teach us a lot about how things connect and evolve over time. It can even change the way we think about important world events.
  2. Predictive markets can help us gauge our understanding of the world. They can show whether our news sources are reliable and help us prepare for future events.
  3. Family history matters. Visiting the places where our ancestors came from can provide a deeper connection to our roots and help us see ourselves as part of a larger story.
Austin Kleon 3397 implied HN points 17 Feb 23
  1. Love can't read minds, so it's important to clearly communicate what you and your loved ones want. This helps build understanding and happiness in relationships.
  2. Expectations and reality can differ, and it's good to think about how our perceptions may mislead us. Reflecting on these differences can be eye-opening.
  3. Finding your unique voice is key for expression. Everyone has different ways of thinking, speaking, and writing, and recognizing this can help improve communication.
Not On Your Team, But Always Fair 943 implied HN points 07 Jan 24
  1. Narratives are about making meaning, not just facts, and protecting them from facts is crucial for them to continue to make meaning.
  2. Dysfunctional policy responses can suppress feedback and drive mainstream media narratives that may lack accountability.
  3. Internationalisation can reduce accountability in policy-making and contribute to undermining democratic systems across large populations.
Penelope Trunk's Substack 539 implied HN points 21 Mar 24
  1. Prince William is stepping away from being heir to the throne due to the pressures and complications within the British monarchy.
  2. There are intricate family dynamics and alleged scandals involving affairs and children that are affecting the future of the royal family.
  3. Kate Middleton's actions seem to suggest a strong stance in negotiations within the royal family, potentially leading to significant changes in their structure and roles.
Culture Study 1795 implied HN points 18 Feb 25
  1. People often look for comfort in books during tough times, especially in February's cold and dark days.
  2. Readers are encouraged to share their current reads, which can lead to discovering new and interesting titles.
  3. Keeping discussions positive and respectful creates a welcoming environment for sharing book recommendations.
The Future, Now and Then 126 implied HN points 22 Dec 25
  1. Trump’s governing coalition looks brittle and likely to fracture from internal infighting, which will reduce their capacity to attack opponents and could help Democrats win narrow congressional majorities, though authoritarian moves may still intensify.
  2. The AI boom will keep inflating but trigger a strong cultural backlash as low-quality AI output becomes ubiquitous; the government may prop up AI finance to avoid a crash while crypto likely slips into another winter as investors pull back.
  3. Broader systems are worsening: billionaires will consolidate media, platforms and public agencies may fail to handle disasters or health crises, and rising emissions and preventable deaths could cause long-term harm even if political power shifts.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 2114 implied HN points 09 Jan 25
  1. Southern California is facing serious wildfires, leading to evacuations and deaths. Many structures, including famous schools and celebrity homes, have been destroyed.
  2. Women have been exposing the long-hidden issue of grooming gangs in Britain, which involved the exploitation of young girls for years. Their efforts are gaining attention after recent events sparked wider discussions.
  3. Many Indians on H-1B visas feel excluded from the American Dream. Some are experiencing challenges with the visa system and have chosen to return home instead.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 2170 implied HN points 02 Jan 25
  1. Blake Lively accused Justin Baldoni of sexual harassment and claimed he organized a smear campaign against her. This has sparked widespread discussion and sympathy for her situation.
  2. The case brings up questions about the complexity of such accusations, especially given how media often portrays men as villains and women as victims in Hollywood.
  3. Amid all the drama, it's important to remember that there are often multiple sides to every story, and not everything is as clear-cut as it seems.
TK News by Matt Taibbi 1948 implied HN points 27 Jan 25
  1. There's a livestream event tonight at 8 PM ET where they will discuss important political topics. It's a great opportunity to hear some insights and opinions live.
  2. The hosts will talk about how journalists should approach covering Trump's second administration, which is a hot topic right now.
  3. Trump's recent executive orders will also be discussed, including the declassification of files related to famous assassinations, which could change how we view those events.
Maybe Baby 767 implied HN points 11 Jul 25
  1. It's okay to let go of things like old notes to stay focused on the present. Sometimes less is more when it comes to managing our thoughts.
  2. Human memory can be tricky, and relying too much on external tools might not always be the best idea. Trusting your mind can help you stay connected with what matters now.
  3. Reflecting on time can reveal surprising insights, like realizing just how close certain months are. It makes you think about how quickly time flies.
Glenn’s Substack 1513 implied HN points 02 Jun 23
  1. The Supreme Court's decision in New York Times v. Sullivan constitutionalized the law of libel.
  2. The case highlighted the importance of the 'actual malice' standard in libel cases, requiring proof of knowledge of falsity or reckless disregard for truth.
  3. The Sullivan case had a significant impact by protecting the press from libel suits, but also raised concerns about media responsibility and trust over time.
TK News by Matt Taibbi 1703 implied HN points 24 Feb 25
  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.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 806 implied HN points 07 Jul 25
  1. Zohran Mamdani recorded his racial identity as both Asian and Black on his college application, which raised questions about his honesty or how he identifies.
  2. Despite stating his diverse background, Mamdani was not admitted to Columbia University, where his father was a professor, and instead attended Bowdoin College.
  3. Mamdani recently faced scrutiny for a social media post wishing followers a happy Hanukkah with a video that featured Indian performers, leading to discussions about his cultural representation.
Unreported Truths 44 implied HN points 04 Feb 26
  1. The Epstein records show many powerful people kept ties to him and engaged in disturbing, if not always illegal, behavior, which creates a real tension between privacy and the public’s right to know.
  2. There’s an important difference between canceling someone for their views and holding public figures accountable for their actions; people in positions of trust should meet minimum moral and behavioral standards.
  3. The Peter Attia example illustrates that poor judgment by trusted public figures can erode credibility and justify employers reconsidering their platforms, without that being the same as suppressing speech.
Common Sense with Bari Weiss 1947 implied HN points 23 Jan 25
  1. Trump has signed an executive order aimed at ending diversity, equity, and inclusion programs in the federal government. This move is seen by some as a return to a more merit-based approach.
  2. San Francisco is shifting towards a more practical governance style, moving away from radical ideas that previously plagued its leadership. The new board president promises to restore effective governance.
  3. The launch of meme coins like $TRUMP has raised questions about their legitimacy and potential risks, with debates on whether they're just fun investments or something more questionable.
Caitlin’s Newsletter 2025 implied HN points 13 Jan 25
  1. Amazon blocked a magazine issue without explaining why, but later reversed its decision after some noise was made. It's important to pay attention to how platforms handle free speech.
  2. There's skepticism about a recent fake incident of antisemitism in Sydney, showing the need to question narratives we hear, especially related to politics and social issues.
  3. Being happy and staying informed can go hand in hand. Facing truths in life leads to true happiness, rather than avoiding painful feelings.
Doomberg 8885 implied HN points 01 Jul 23
  1. The destruction of the dam in Ukraine is undeniable proof that war is destructive and impactful.
  2. John Kerry's focus on climate change amidst ongoing conflicts raises questions about priorities.
  3. Confidence in the media is declining, especially in the coverage of climate change, leading to a growing disconnect with the electorate.
The Signorile Report 839 implied HN points 10 Feb 24
  1. President Biden faced a politically motivated hit job by a Trump-appointed special counsel, causing anger among Democrats and progressives.
  2. The special counsel exceeded his scope and produced a report with clear signs of political bias, prompting questions about Attorney General Merrick Garland's role.
  3. The corporate media fell into the trap set by the special counsel, potentially facing a situation where history might not repeat itself like it did with James Comey's report on Hillary Clinton.
Computer Ads from the Past 768 implied HN points 10 Jul 25
  1. Many game creators started programming at a young age and learned by experimenting on their own computers. They believe that hands-on experience is the best way to learn.
  2. Creating a successful game often requires a mix of good ideas and playability. Game designers know that if a game is fun and engaging, people will want to play it.
  3. The game development journey can be both enjoyable and challenging. Many developers find satisfaction in creating games that others love to play, making it a rewarding career.
In My Tribe 759 implied HN points 04 Jul 25
  1. Having 10,000 subscribers feels like a big honor. This shows that my work is appreciated by many, which is really important to me.
  2. Through a discussion on what matters most in life, I found that honor is my top priority. It’s a reminder to balance this with my other responsibilities, especially to my family.
  3. Even if we disagree on some topics like AI safety, I appreciate the support from thoughtful people. Their feedback motivates me to keep sharing my ideas.
TK News by Matt Taibbi 1885 implied HN points 27 Jan 25
  1. There's a special livestream discussing the Global Engagement Center and how it relates to State Department censorship. It's good to stay informed about these current events.
  2. Both hosts have faced some scrutiny from the Global Engagement Center due to their reporting. It's interesting how investigative journalism can sometimes attract unwanted attention.
  3. A watchdog group has filed a lawsuit seeking information on the GEC's actions against journalists. This highlights the ongoing tension between government transparency and media freedom.
Reboot 29 implied HN points 05 Feb 26
  1. Kernel issue 6, themed “FEED,” is open for pitches — nonfiction due Feb 20 and creative submissions due Feb 28.
  2. They want sharp, specific work by and for technologists that explores feeding in many senses: data and news feeds, what people and machines consume, supply chains, food cultures, and feedback loops.
  3. All contributions are paid (rates increased), there are stipended roles for editors and illustrators, and they expect original, high-quality pieces rather than tired clichés or low-effort AI work.
Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet 950 implied HN points 01 Jun 25
  1. Technology can bring both good and bad changes, but we need to be aware of both sides. It's important not to worship or destroy new technology, but to think critically about its impact.
  2. Our current tech revolution, like the past ones, may lead to losses and hardships for many people, even as it also creates new opportunities. It's crucial to recognize that upheaval can be part of progress.
  3. The way we understand technology's role in society has shifted over time, and we must learn from history to navigate current challenges. We can't ignore the potential threats that come with new advancements.
Letters from an American 30 implied HN points 09 Feb 26
  1. McCarthy and others used fear, loud accusations, and selective leaks to grab headlines and gain political power, staying ahead of fact‑checking until the public finally turned against them.
  2. The belief that elites or outsiders are destroying the nation evolved into the Great Replacement idea, rooted in older racist and eugenic thought and fueling white‑supremacist movements and violence.
  3. Recent political leaders and advisers have revived and weaponized anti‑immigrant and racist narratives to block compromise and push exclusionary policies, repeating tactics that trade truth for power.
Comment is Freed 119 implied HN points 23 Dec 25
  1. The new government is squeezed by a big fiscal gap and a cautious, unclear political approach, which has left its leaders unpopular and vulnerable to internal challenges.
  2. The rise of Reform on the right and a more unified, charismatic Green party has reshaped UK politics, making low-turnout results driven by enthusiastic voters more decisive and threatening the Conservatives' old coalition.
  3. Populist leaders are consolidating power through executive action, courts, tariffs and immigration control, and the bigger political fights ahead will centre on the radical right, changing information habits, climate and technology — but outcomes will differ by country so context matters.
Striking 13 1457 implied HN points 25 Sep 23
  1. Striking 13 is dedicated to providing good, clean, and honest journalism that is easy to understand and grounded in evidence and expertise.
  2. The newsletter prides itself on not providing impartial reporting like on TV, but instead offers coverage committed to values like reason, tolerance, truth, and empiricism.
  3. Readers can expect objective political coverage based on evidence, research, reliable sources, and interviews with specialists, even when it may not align with the author's own political biases.