The hottest Media Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

was she born with it or was it god damn Maybelline?

Both Are True • 192 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Commercial taglines and songs from childhood can stick with us and shape our lives in unexpected ways. They often act like the 'gospels' we learn from as kids.
  2. It's okay to admit that you don't know something. Society often pushes us to have all the answers, but not knowing can be a valuable lesson too.
  3. High school often teaches us strange ideas about relationships and sex that can stick with us as we grow up. Many of these lessons come from silly or inappropriate sources.

A new and improved Film and TV Newsletter Directory

Textual Variations • 265 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. The Film and TV Newsletter Directory has been updated and is back up and running. It showcases various film and TV Substack newsletters.
  2. The updates to the directory faced challenges due to technical issues and design limitations within the Substack platform. A new format was developed to make it visually appealing and user-friendly.
  3. The directory allows authors to be mentioned and notified when their newsletters are highlighted. However, there are concerns about some authors disabling mentions, which posed a problem when trying to update the directory.

'COVER-UP' IN THEATERS

Seymour Hersh • 21 implied HN points • 25 Nov 25
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. A film called 'Cover-Up' about Seymour Hersh will be released in various theaters starting December 5. It's a great chance to see a film about an important journalist.
  2. The film will also be available to stream on Netflix starting December 26. This makes it easy for anyone to watch it from home after the theater premiere.
  3. The release happens around the holidays, which is a time for gathering with friends and family. It could be a nice way to relax and enjoy some meaningful content during that time.

Why hasn’t the mainstream media embraced paid podcasts?

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 573 implied HN points • 14 Feb 24
💼 Business Media
  1. Paid podcasts have seen success with small networks and creators, but traditional media outlets have been hesitant to embrace them.
  2. Platforms like Patreon and tools from Apple and Spotify have made subscribing to paid podcasts easier, yet major publishers are still not fully exploring this opportunity.
  3. Some media companies like Slate and The Economist are finding success with paid podcasts and hard paywalls, showing potential for revenue growth in these areas.
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How the Grinch Stole the 2024 Election

Daniel Pinchbeck’s Newsletter • 11 implied HN points • 24 Dec 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media
  1. A technical theory argues election results could have been manipulated by creating fake "phantom" jurisdictions and using man‑in‑the‑middle techniques to inject and quietly redistribute fabricated votes, with odd raw data glitches offered as possible evidence.
  2. Experts and records show voting software and systems have been copied or breached and warned about, while voting vendors are concentrated under private ownership, which raises big systemic security concerns.
  3. Political tactics like DARVO — deny, attack, and reverse victim and offender — plus aggressive rhetoric were used to confuse the public and discredit scrutiny, making independent investigation and accountability much harder.

Top Quickies of the year: Poly people, Kendrick/Drake, therapy, & more

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 213 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. There's a new standup special coming soon on YouTube, and you can join a live Q&A during its premiere.
  2. The post highlights some interesting topics from the past year, including polyamory and popular music.
  3. You can stream the full standup special now for a small fee if you're eager to watch it right away.

Jobs and Opps at ITV, The Bureau of Investigative Journalism, The Lead, Sifted.eu, and Many, Many More 🎄

Journo Resources - The Opportunities • 119 implied HN points • 19 Dec 23
💼 Business Media
  1. The newsletter shares job opportunities at various organizations like ITV and The Bureau of Investigative Journalism.
  2. Encouragement to rest and recharge during the holiday season to improve job application quality.
  3. Updates on a magazine cover reveal and sales initiative for the upcoming yearbook.

How to Make Slavery work for YOU!

apxhard • 76 implied HN points • 15 Jul 25
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Modern systems of control often manipulate people's emotions, making them feel powerless and unable to change their own circumstances. This keeps them stuck and compliant.
  2. Media feeds can shape our thoughts and feelings, leading us to focus on anger and superiority rather than on real, personal problems. This can create a cycle of discontent and dependency.
  3. Promoting humility and self-awareness is crucial for breaking free from these manipulative systems, but many people may resist this kind of change because it challenges their current beliefs.

Automation in Movie Theaters Gives Me the Creeps

Textual Variations • 198 implied HN points • 21 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Automation in movie theaters is increasing, leading to fewer staff and a less engaging experience for viewers. People feel uneasy seeing machines replace human jobs and the emptiness of the theaters.
  2. The closing of a popular David Lynch Facebook page highlights issues with automated customer service. It shows how difficult it can be to get assistance from large companies like Meta when they rely heavily on machines.
  3. The alternate Pizza Hut version of 'Demolition Man' demonstrates how movie marketing has evolved over time. It's a fun twist that changes the film's context for different audiences, reflecting how product placement has shaped cinema.

This Super Bowl, Snoop Dog & Tom Brady Will Defend The Ethnic Cleansing of Gaza

JoeWrote • 189 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media
  1. Snoop Dog and Tom Brady will be seen in a Super Bowl ad that promotes standing up against hate. However, the underlying message is seen as supporting controversial views related to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.
  2. The Foundation to Combat Antisemitism, behind the ad, is accused of misusing the fight against hate to silence criticism of Israel. Critics believe it manipulates social justice themes to push a political agenda.
  3. Concerns are raised about how alleged antisemitism is measured and reported by FCAS, suggesting their methods might mislead the public. The focus on antisemitism may overshadow awareness of the struggles faced by Palestinians.

Downward Is Heavenward

Kneeling Bus • 254 implied HN points • 21 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Putting down your phone and going outside is a way to escape from the overwhelming digital world, but even nature can have its own issues. We need to realize that our sense of reality is always changing and influenced by what we see online.
  2. The idea of escaping into filter bubbles has become irrelevant because now our entire experience is made up of different realities. We are so intertwined with digital life that leaving a social media platform feels like moving away in real life.
  3. People today are finding connection in shared interests, like movies or trending topics, despite the chaos online. This new culture may seem bland compared to the past but helps pull us together when real meaning feels scarce.

An Epstein Backgrounder and Where We Are Today

God's Spies by Thomas Neuburger • 70 implied HN points • 31 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media
  1. The Epstein story is very complex and constantly changing, similar to the JFK assassination, with many known facts but also many uncertainties.
  2. Darryl Cooper's interviews offer deep insights into Epstein's life, his connections with powerful people, and the implications of his actions.
  3. Other interviews discuss connections between Epstein and notable figures like Donald Trump, as well as ongoing legal and ethical questions surrounding the case.

who is the media now?

bad cattitude • 239 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media
  1. Media is changing a lot because regular people can now share news and opinions easily. This means traditional journalists are losing their influence.
  2. Many people don't trust established media anymore. They feel the news isn’t impartial and is often funded by special interest groups.
  3. The conversation about news is more open now, with many voices contributing. This makes it easier to find truth faster than before.

How the written internet died

The Rectangle • 84 implied HN points • 04 Jul 25
🕹 Technology Media
  1. Pocket is shutting down, marking the end of an era for how people save and read articles online. It was a popular tool for many who wanted to keep track of interesting content.
  2. The rise of video content on social media platforms shifted focus away from writing. This change has made the internet feel different, with more people consuming short videos instead of reading articles.
  3. With Pocket’s closure, it seems like the written internet is fading away. Many feel nostalgic for when writing was a central part of the online experience.

Two quick questions for my paid subscribers

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 99 implied HN points • 28 May 25
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. It's important to get feedback from your audience to improve your content. Asking questions helps understand what people like or want more of.
  2. Checking in with subscribers can keep them engaged and show that you care about their opinions. This builds a stronger connection with your audience.
  3. Offering a way for paid subscribers to share their thoughts can provide valuable insights. It helps creators tailor their work to better meet the needs of their supporters.

Another cable news star goes the independent route

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 249 implied HN points • 12 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media
  1. More cable news stars are leaving traditional networks to start their own independent projects, like podcasts and video channels. This shows a trend toward building direct connections with audiences.
  2. Companies like CNN are facing challenges as they try to shift their focus from linear TV to digital platforms. They have a big advantage with a large news-gathering team, but changing the company culture will be tough.
  3. Media outlets are seeing a spike in subscriptions whenever notable political events happen, like elections. Publications are trying to leverage these moments, hoping for increased support similar to past trends.

#1: Directing Attention + first ever article

12challenges • 171 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🕹 Technology Media
  1. The publication '12 Challenges' has been rebranded to 'Directing Attention', aiming to create fun content about technology. It focuses on making tech exciting and offers a fresh perspective on the industry.
  2. The plan includes three types of content: playful tech analysis, satire, and interactive mini-sites. The writer plans to start by focusing on satire to quickly build an audience.
  3. A new website for 'Attention' is being created for maximum creative control, allowing for unique and interactive article presentations. This will help surprise and engage readers in new ways.

Saturday morning open tabs

Scott's Substack • 78 implied HN points • 27 Jan 24
🕹 Technology Media
  1. The author discusses the challenge of balancing self-love with weight loss efforts.
  2. The author shares open tabs about various topics like causal inference, discrimination, and AI.
  3. The author reflects on articles they've read and their views on compassion and biased depictions of others.

Breaking/Sad News: Joyce Slocum, President of Texas Public Radio, has died.

Think Future • 59 implied HN points • 04 Mar 24
📰 News Media
  1. Joyce Slocum, President of Texas Public Radio, has passed away after a prolonged illness, leaving a legacy of love and influence.
  2. People who work in public radio believe in the public and strive to inform and uplift listeners with every program.
  3. Joyce Slocum's dedication to public radio for decades showcased her belief in the power of an informed public to do good.

Blague raciste : est-ce ok ?

L'Atelier Galita • 279 implied HN points • 30 May 23
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Racist jokes can have negative effects, increasing the likelihood of racism being expressed in a group.
  2. Humor should consider proximity, intimacy of the subject, timing, and context to be appropriate.
  3. Meta-racist humor can target racists instead of victims, potentially reducing racism.

Vol. 2, Issue 4 - Interview with Pokémon Rebirth

Johto Times • 79 implied HN points • 25 Jan 24
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Pokémon Rebirth was a fan-made project that ran for nearly 20 years, featuring stories about Pokémon characters and original characters. It was a creative outlet for exploring ideas about the Pokémon universe.
  2. The creator, Gemma, took inspiration from all types of Pokémon media and created a unique world called Tatto, based on the UK. This shows how fan fiction can expand on existing stories in fun ways.
  3. The project fostered a supportive community where fans could interact and even submit their own art. It highlights the importance of community and fan engagement in creative projects.

T.V. Digest #20 is Mostly about Film Revision. Mostly.

Textual Variations • 231 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Film revision is an important topic, and the film industry has issues that need to be addressed, especially concerning the VFX community's treatment over the years.
  2. Streaming services often misrepresent runtimes, so it's best to verify by watching the cuts yourself, which can lead to surprising discoveries.
  3. The opening of 'Kraven the Hunter' shows promise for the film, indicating that it may resonate well with fans of the genre.

Dreamcast cheat code roundup: Charge 'N Blast, Fighting Force 2, & Ready 2 Rumble Boxing Round 2

Rings of Saturn • 58 implied HN points • 16 Aug 25
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. There are new cheat codes found for Dreamcast games like Charge 'N Blast, Fighting Force 2, and Ready 2 Rumble Boxing Round 2. These codes can unlock new modes and characters.
  2. For Charge 'N Blast, you can unlock the Expert single player mode with a special code. It adds a tough challenge for players who want more from the game.
  3. In Ready 2 Rumble Boxing Round 2, one code can unlock eight characters, including some well-known ones, making the game more fun to play.

The ICA: Obama's Legacy

The Reactionary • 71 implied HN points • 22 Jul 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media
  1. The Intelligence Community had 'low confidence' in claiming that Russia was behind the leaking of DNC data before the official assessment was made.
  2. There were issues with how intelligence was gathered and presented, including suppressed evidence and questionable sources relied upon by FBI officials.
  3. A meeting was held at the White House, led by Obama officials, to create a narrative around Russian interference right before Trump took office.

Brands are really eager to sponsor live events

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 224 implied HN points • 06 Dec 24
💼 Business Media
  1. Brands are very interested in sponsoring live events. This means companies see value in connecting with people in person.
  2. The NFL is becoming a huge media player, making billions from TV rights and producing lots of its own content. They're seen as one of the most valuable media properties globally.
  3. B2B media is on the rise, especially after the pandemic, as more businesses are looking to connect in person through events and other platforms.

The death rattle of human culture

White Hot Harlots • 39 implied HN points • 17 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Sensitivity readers play a significant role in modern publishing, ensuring works are free of offense before publication.
  2. The work of sensitivity readers can lead to a shrinking realm of acceptable speech in art and entertainment.
  3. The rise of sensitivity readers is reshaping cultural norms in areas like young adult fiction and may lead to significant changes in American culture.

Interview with the Previously Prohibited podcast

Karlstack • 91 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media
  1. Chris Brunet went from being popular in the anti-woke Right to being an outcast for speaking the truth about Israel's support in conservative media.
  2. He recently wrote about new laws that target BDS and free speech, showing a growing trend among some Republicans.
  3. The interview discusses how these changes affect freedom of expression and highlights the challenges faced by journalists.

Is Elon Musk Actually Evil?

Erik Examines • 179 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media
  1. Elon Musk has been accused of mean and hurtful behavior, including mocking people with disabilities and making offensive comments online. This kind of attitude raises questions about his character.
  2. People often overlook the bad actions of powerful individuals if they have also done good things. Just because someone achieves great advancements doesn't mean they are a good person overall.
  3. True leadership involves caring for others and being present in family life, something many believe Musk fails to do despite his public image as a successful entrepreneur.

The valley of churn

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 873 implied HN points • 22 Jun 23
💼 Business Media
  1. In the media industry, success stories often overshadow struggles and failures
  2. Content creators face challenges like subscription churn and need to diversify revenue streams
  3. Connecting with other media operators and constantly evolving subscription strategies are crucial for business growth

Happiness, freedom, and joy

Men Yell at Me • 226 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Happiness and well-being should not depend on traditional roles like marriage. It's important to recognize everyone's value as individuals, not just through their relationships.
  2. Freedom is essential, especially in the face of challenges to women's rights and LGBTQ+ rights. Building strong communities is crucial for creating real change.
  3. Telling our stories is important as it preserves truth and keeps history alive. Sharing narratives helps hold those in power accountable and counters misinformation.

Meta's just not that into you

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 499 implied HN points • 13 Mar 24
💼 Business Media
  1. Facebook is shifting away from news content, with recent actions including shutting down its news tab and restricting news links on its platforms like Instagram and Threads.
  2. Publishers have seen a decline in Facebook traffic over the years, as the platform has deprioritized news pages since the aftermath of the 2016 election.
  3. Many publishers blame Meta for not compensating them adequately, leading to lobbying efforts by publishers globally to force Meta to the bargaining table.

Everybody Hates Cocomelon

Off-Topic • 558 implied HN points • 02 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Cocomelon is a massively popular children's program on YouTube with millions of subscribers and views.
  2. There is concern and controversy around the potential negative effects of Cocomelon on children's development.
  3. Cocomelon's success is driven by intentional strategies to captivate young viewers and generate profit.

The Monday Media Diet with Sophia Smith Galer

Why is this interesting? • 542 implied HN points • 05 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Sophia curates her news from social media like Twitter, Instagram, and TikTok, finding content that aligns with her interests.
  2. She enjoys leisurely reading the weekend papers and is a fan of Private Eye, read in a unique way as a family tradition.
  3. Sophia recommends reading Megha Mohan's journalism and mentions Reverso Context as a great language app.

Weapons and Words

Desk Notes by Charles Schifano • 194 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. Two brothers used violence to silence freedom of expression, showing the extreme conflict between ideas and brutality. This tragic event highlights how important it is to protect free speech, even when it offends.
  2. The piece discusses how humor and irony can express deep truths, which can often be misunderstood. Satire allows us to examine serious subjects without resorting to violence.
  3. Philippe Lançon's experience after the attack shows the struggle to understand trauma through art and literature. It reminds us that even in the face of horror, we can find ways to make sense of our lives and the world around us.

The Sweet Spot Between Doomscrolling and Hopium Smoking

OK Doomer • 178 implied HN points • 01 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Media
  1. People feel alone when they realize how serious our problems are. They want to talk and connect with others who share their worries.
  2. Many distractions in our culture, like politics, pull attention away from the real issues at hand. They can feel like a way to ignore the reality of difficult times ahead.
  3. It's important to acknowledge that doom and uncertainty won't disappear. Finding a balance between awareness and hope can help navigate these feelings better.

Video Notes, improved search, Spotify integration, and more

Substack • 451 implied HN points • 18 Apr 24
🕹 Technology Media
  1. Substack has added new features like posting videos directly in Notes, making it easier for creators to share content.
  2. They've improved the search function on the platform, allowing users to find posts faster and more easily.
  3. Podcasters can now distribute their episodes to Spotify, helping them reach a wider audience and potentially make more money.

Trump's "Shock And Awe" Month

The Weekly Dish • 163 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media
  1. Trump's recent actions are creating a lot of confusion and unpredictability. It's hard to know what he's going to do next.
  2. Despite the chaos, there seems to be a pattern of mistakes and miscalculations. His approach might not be successful in the long run.
  3. The ongoing drama around him keeps people's attention, but it may not lead to meaningful change or improvement. It's important to look beyond the headlines.

Links to Consider, 11/2/24

In My Tribe • 243 implied HN points • 02 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media
  1. Journalism can become too self-important, especially around political campaigns. This can make journalists feel like they are part of the story instead of just reporting it.
  2. In healthcare, knowing what you actually pay can help people make better choices. A transparent system can encourage people to think about costs and trade-offs.
  3. Economists notice many problems in policies that the average person may overlook. They also understand how economic rules can impact the working poor significantly.