The hottest Media Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

Sunday Strip: The Limited Hangout

Who is Robert Malone • 34 implied HN points • 21 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media
  1. Congress inserted broad redaction powers into law, which lets the government conceal potentially compromising involvement and allows politicians to avoid accountability for their role in that setup.
  2. Pride symbols and rainbow imagery are being placed in child-focused spaces like cartoons and events, and the piece claims this is intentional marketing aimed at attracting or grooming children.
  3. Many politicians are accused of hypocrisy for creating the redaction rules that protect their allies while later blaming others like the DOJ when those protections are used.

assessing the los angeles ICEcapades

bad cattitude • 246 implied HN points • 10 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media
  1. Many people are frustrated with the way media portrays protests and riots, often downplaying violence. This makes it hard to trust what we see on TV.
  2. There's a feeling that immigration issues and safety are being ignored or mishandled by those in power, leading to unrest. People want clear solutions and accountability.
  3. A lot of folks are tired of political games and want straightforward discussions about issues affecting their communities. They hope for real change, not just protests for the sake of media attention.

Going wherever it leads

Austin Kleon • 1398 implied HN points • 02 Sep 22
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Redacted documents are becoming a major topic in the news, which led to some funny comments about blackout poetry. The creator finds humor in how this art form connects to current events.
  2. Reading tough books can be a real challenge. Sometimes, you find a book that hooks you, but also drives you a bit crazy, making you wish it was shorter.
  3. Interesting documentaries and profiles about musicians can offer new insights and perspectives. Watching these can be a great way to appreciate the history and creativity behind the music we love.

Odds and Ends #44: The New Statesman still needs fixing

Odds and Ends of History • 670 implied HN points • 25 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media
  1. The New Statesman needs a new strategy because its current direction isn’t working, especially with recent management changes. It's suggested that they should find a fresh approach to regain readers' interest.
  2. Channel Tunnel news indicates new train operators could start here, which means more travel choices for people. However, the slow process for getting these services running is frustrating.
  3. The Sekforde pub is facing NIMBY threats due to possible new licensing rules that could limit outdoor seating. It's highlighted that such pubs are important for social interaction and community events.
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Du Fu and Li Bai critique modern media

Wyclif's Dust • 536 implied HN points • 07 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Modern media offers a wide range of content that can be just as good as classic art. Today’s shows and movies have a depth that critics often overlook.
  2. The technology we have now helps artists reach more people and improve their work. Better sound and video mean more exciting performances.
  3. Mass media also helps educate audiences about what good art looks like. As things get personalized, there are more chances for niche, artistic works to thrive.

How Empathy Makes Us Cruel and Irrational

The Prism • 613 implied HN points • 13 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Empathy can sometimes lead people to support those who have committed serious crimes, like murder, by seeing them as victims rather than acknowledging their actions. This often happens because people connect emotionally and ignore the facts.
  2. Women may be more affected by stories that evoke empathy, which can lead to biased views in trials and public discussions about justice, especially in cases of alleged abuse.
  3. Believing that empathy always leads to compassion can be misleading; it might actually cause unfairness and cruelty toward others, as people might overlook wrongdoing because they only focus on the suffering of one side.

can everyone please just shut the fuck up for a few minutes

Both Are True • 248 implied HN points • 09 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. There is too much noise and content in the world right now. It might be good for everyone to take a break and just quiet down for a bit.
  2. People often feel pressure to keep up or perform well with their work, especially online. It's exhausting to always be judged by numbers and reactions.
  3. Creativity should be about real expression, not just catering to what will get likes and shares. It's important to focus on speaking your truth instead.

Starting from scraps

Austin Kleon • 1238 implied HN points • 14 Oct 22
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Starting from limited resources can inspire creativity and lead to new ideas.
  2. The beauty of life is often found in our day-to-day experiences and connections, not just in grand adventures.
  3. Art and copyright law can clash, raising important questions about creativity and ownership.

The New York Times goes full right-wing transphobic bigot in agreeing that the permanent sterilization of kids who can't give informed consent is, like, totally messed up

Beck of the Pack • 196 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media
  1. The New York Times is criticized for supporting irreversible surgeries on kids without informed consent.
  2. Financial motives are highlighted as a driving force behind radical medical treatments for children.
  3. Criticism is directed at individuals promoting irreversible procedures on kids without considering long-term consequences.

Thinking Under Fascism

Dada Drummer Almanach • 505 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Thinking creatively during tough times can help us hold onto our reality. It's important to find a personal truth even when the world feels distorted.
  2. Art can be a powerful tool against oppressive forces, as shown by Chaplin's famous speech in 'The Great Dictator.' Speaking out against injustice can attract both support and backlash.
  3. History shows us that silencing voices of opposition is a strategy used by fascists. We must stay connected and support one another to resist these challenges in the present.

Chinese netizens outraged over Apple employee photo

Wenhao’s news blog • 393 implied HN points • 18 Sep 23
🌍 World Politics Media
  1. Chinese netizens accused Apple of discrimination due to a photo of an Asian-looking employee, but it was actually a Native American woman from California.
  2. Online poll results show that a majority found Apple's use of the photo inappropriate, despite the explanation.
  3. There was backlash against Apple in China, amid praise for Huawei, highlighting a contradiction in reactions.

On Sinead O'Connor and Borderline Personality Disorder

Disaffected Newsletter • 499 implied HN points • 08 Aug 23
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Sinead O'Connor's life and struggles highlight the challenges of living with Borderline Personality Disorder. It's important to understand the emotional ups and downs that come with this condition.
  2. Mental health issues can affect anyone, regardless of their success or fame. Sinead's story reminds us to be compassionate towards others who are suffering.
  3. Discussing and raising awareness about mental health is crucial. It helps to break the stigma and encourages people to seek help when they need it.

Blast

L'Atelier Galita • 259 implied HN points • 17 Jan 24
📰 News Media
  1. Blast is an independent media outlet that focuses on various important topics like investigation, politics, ecology, and culture through videos, articles, and interviews.
  2. Blast's financing model is similar to other independent media outlets like Arrêt sur images, relying on support from members and subscribers for financial independence.
  3. Blast provides content beyond just news, including in-depth analysis, book summaries, and interviews with organizations, offering valuable insights and recommendations.

☞ Musical Perception in Fiction

Cabinet of Wonders • 208 implied HN points • 07 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Diegetic music is when characters in a story hear the music, making it part of their world. It's different from background music that only the audience hears.
  2. Musicals can mess with this concept, as sometimes characters are aware they are singing, while other times they are not. This adds a fun layer to storytelling.
  3. Diegetic music can break the fourth wall, connecting characters with the audience in a unique way. It creates an engaging experience by blending different perspectives.

Why the HQ Doc was pulled from the air

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 627 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. The documentary 'Glitch' about HQ Trivia was pulled from HBO/CNN because of a lawsuit from the former CEO, who claimed an email in the film was doctored.
  2. The author clarified that they had no involvement with the film and did not even see it, but are being blamed for errors they did not make.
  3. Despite the author notifying a reporter of their non-involvement, the reporter plans to write a piece blaming them for the situation, showcasing a disregard for the truth.

Texts as Toys

Breaking Smart • 170 implied HN points • 27 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Media
  1. Writing is like making toys, and reading is like playing with those toys. In the age of AI, we should embrace this playful approach to both activities.
  2. People often miss the fun aspect of using AI because they feel threatened by it or don't know how to interact with it effectively. Approaching AI with a playful mindset can unlock its potential.
  3. We need to adjust our expectations when using AI. Just as toys don’t perfectly represent real objects, AI outputs can also be quirky and not always accurate. Understanding this helps us enjoy the experience more.

kitten corner: escape

bad cattitude • 160 implied HN points • 04 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. A cat is poking fun at modern culture and people's complaints. It shows how humor can highlight serious topics.
  2. The author challenges the cat to sum up cultural grievances in a video, suggesting it might just be an impossible task.
  3. It's a playful way of engaging with deep issues while still keeping it light and fun.

Peeling Back The Layers

Highlighted by Highly Enthused • 259 implied HN points • 14 Jan 24
🍲 Food & Drink Media
  1. The author is experiencing a slower pregnancy this time compared to previous pregnancies.
  2. The post discusses simple pleasures like making peach iced tea and watching shows like 'Smothered'.
  3. There is a recommendation for Freddy's Acupuncture Collective, a low-stakes and communal acupuncture center.

Morning Mina

Disaffected Newsletter • 899 implied HN points • 21 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Having a loving pet can make a big difference in your life. Cats can offer companionship and joy.
  2. It's important to find things that bring you happiness. Little moments with pets can brighten your day.
  3. Supporting creators and writers can help them continue their work. Subscribing to newsletters is a way to show support.

Jobs and Opps at HuffPost UK, Full Fact, Business Insider, NFU, and Many, Many More 🥂

Journo Resources - The Opportunities • 277 implied HN points • 02 Jan 24
💼 Business Media
  1. A variety of journalism job opportunities are available in different locations with competitive salaries, such as in unscripted TV development, social content creation, and editorial roles.
  2. New Year's Resolutions may not always be practical or realistic for everyone, and setting smaller goals or guidelines can be just as beneficial in journalism work.
  3. Various organizations are offering training programs, mentorship opportunities, and cash prizes for journalists, writers, and content creators to support their career growth and development.

Letters to the Editor: Is Porn Really Inevitable?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 491 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media
  1. The Supreme Court is hearing a case about age verification laws for pornography, which raises concerns about privacy online.
  2. Some argue that age verification for adult content is necessary, similar to checks for things like buying alcohol or gambling, to protect children.
  3. Others believe that family control and supervision is more effective than laws when it comes to preventing kids from accessing porn online.

One! Hundred! Thousand!

Austin Kleon • 1858 implied HN points • 08 Apr 22
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. It's important to create a newsletter that you enjoy and would want to read yourself. Having a clear format helps keep things organized.
  2. Libraries can thrive without late fees or staff, as people often return items when given the chance. It's great to see how this positively impacts communities.
  3. April is a month to celebrate poetry and autism awareness. There are fun ways to engage with both, like sharing poems or learning more about autism through recommended readings.

New Normal

Disaffected Newsletter • 879 implied HN points • 25 Feb 23
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Living in a place can feel surreal and alien, almost like a horror movie setting. People often sense a disconnect between their real lives and what they see around them.
  2. The experience of ordinary activities, like visiting a locksmith, can feel strangely uncomfortable and unusual in today's world.
  3. There's a nostalgia for past media that captured intense feelings and realities better than many modern films do. Many people long for that more genuine storytelling.

A New Era for Linkposts

By Reason Alone • 67 implied HN points • 06 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Some people write blogs mainly for their own learning, without worrying if others read them. This helps them understand and keep track of what they learn.
  2. Link roundups can be a great way to share interesting finds with others, even if they start as personal notes. Many enjoy and engage with these kinds of posts.
  3. Collaborating with established platforms like EconLog can help broaden the audience for blog content. It's good to share work that is relevant to their readers.

YouTube's last white whale

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 249 implied HN points • 30 May 25
💼 Business Media
  1. YouTube is growing stronger as more creators make high-quality scripted shows, competing with Hollywood. This shift shows that digital platforms can produce professional-level content and attract large audiences.
  2. Moving companies are now partnering with influencers to promote their services, which is a clever way to save money for both sides. It highlights the power of social media in marketing, even for unexpected industries.
  3. Local news organizations are debating whether to keep paywalls. One paper is trying to be open about its finances, showing that transparency might help them connect better with their audience.

Every summer we sacrifice a CEO

Men Yell at Me • 192 implied HN points • 20 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. The story of a CEO and HR executive caught on camera at a concert shows how quickly scandals can go viral. People love to share and react to this kind of drama online.
  2. The author reflects on cheating, saying life and relationships can be messy. They believe there are more serious issues than infidelity in a relationship.
  3. The situation highlights society's fascination with personal scandals and how they can become a topic of widespread discussion and meme culture.

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 620 implied HN points • 22 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Watching art critiques can change how we think about creative work. It challenges our views and might make us rethink what art really is.
  2. Trying new things each week helps keep our minds fresh and engaged. It's a good way to discover more about what we like and care about.
  3. Going to see a show, like 'Wicked', can be a fun way to experience storytelling. Live performances bring a unique energy that can be really enjoyable.

Why Substack is trying to lure in TikTok creators

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 474 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
💼 Business Media
  1. Substack is aiming to attract TikTok creators by offering a $20 million fund to help them transition to the platform without losing money. This shows their desire to expand beyond just newsletters into multimedia content.
  2. Progressive media outlets might benefit from creating more non-political content to engage a broader audience. Mixing politics with entertainment could reach viewers who wouldn't typically seek out political content.
  3. The New Yorker has successfully transitioned to digital by becoming profitable and expanding its staff. This success story highlights how legacy media can adapt and thrive in the changing landscape.

Dog days

Austin Kleon • 1498 implied HN points • 08 Jul 22
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Reading shorter books can be enjoyable and worthwhile, even if they don’t blow you away. It's nice to find pieces that balance serious topics with a light touch.
  2. Creative work often comes from balancing respect for the past with the desire to innovate. This tension can lead to interesting new ideas and artworks.
  3. Podcasts and shows can be great for light entertainment; for example, 'The Offer' is a fun mini-series worth checking out.

Russell Brand's Charismatic Bullshit

Trickle-Down Wellness • 373 implied HN points • 06 Mar 23
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Russell Brand used three charismatic persuasion techniques: constant touching, intrusive eye contact/name reference, and Gish gallop.
  2. Gish gallop is a tactic where someone overwhelms with many arguments without accuracy or strength.
  3. Brand's debate tactics involved avoiding specificity, focusing on affect over truth, and desiring the spotlight.

The newsletter platform wars heat up

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 548 implied HN points • 18 Dec 24
💼 Business Media
  1. The newsletter market is competitive as platforms like Substack and Beehiiv fight for creators. Beehiiv aims to help creators monetize with ads better than Substack, which focuses on subscriptions.
  2. Big media companies see theatrical releases as a way to boost streaming views. They think that cinema buzz can lead to more interest in streaming the same content later.
  3. Forbes is moving away from freelance writers due to changes in Google's policies. They're focusing more on their internal content to adapt to new search engine challenges.

TL;DRussia Weekend Roundup

TL;DRussia • 373 implied HN points • 09 Apr 23
🌍 World Politics Media
  1. The impact of disinformation is complex and goes beyond individual-level effects.
  2. Understanding disinformation requires looking at societal structures and group dynamics.
  3. Efforts to combat disinformation should focus on rebuilding societal bonds rather than just policing the media.

The taming of the Shredder

Disaffected Newsletter • 659 implied HN points • 15 May 23
🎙 Podcasts Media
  1. You can learn to manage difficult situations better. It's about finding ways to handle challenges in life.
  2. Understanding the history behind a problem helps in solving it. Knowing how things got to where they are can guide your actions.
  3. Emotional awareness is important. Recognizing your feelings and reactions allows for better decision-making.

Intentionally spiraling out

Austin Kleon • 1958 implied HN points • 25 Feb 22
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. A simple notebook exercise can help reduce anxiety and make you feel a bit better. It's a small step to calm the mind.
  2. Listening to Mel Brooks' memoir is not just funny; it feels sweet and comforting. It's like connecting with family through his stories.
  3. Pre-ordering the special edition of 'Steal Like an Artist' is a great way to support and celebrate its 10th anniversary, plus you'll get a signed copy!

Vol. 2, Issue 31 - The Legacy of Pokémon - Part 6 (Generation VI)

Johto Times • 19 implied HN points • 01 Aug 24
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Generation VI of Pokémon introduced exciting features like Mega Evolutions and the mobile game Pokémon GO, which brought new life to the franchise.
  2. The remake Pokémon Omega Ruby received praise for its added story elements and nostalgia, while some felt that Pokémon Y lacked depth and polish.
  3. Playing Pokémon GO created fun and memorable experiences, improving social interactions and physical activity, as well as providing a positive impact on mental well-being.

Social Learning Links

In My Tribe • 516 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media
  1. People have different biases based on their political views. For example, those on the left focus more on oppression, while those on the right emphasize threats from outsiders.
  2. Elites are often held to higher standards than those challenging them. When elites show arrogance or suppress dissent, they can create backlash against themselves.
  3. It's important for communities to protect themselves against bad actors who misuse the idea of victimhood. Without this protection, those with harmful intentions can take control.