The hottest Media Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
Category
Top Culture Topics

Zvi's 2024 In Movies

Don't Worry About the Vase • 1299 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Reviews Cinema Media Entertainment
  1. Watching movies in theaters is way better than at home. The experience with big screens and better sound makes a big difference.
  2. People become more picky about movie quality when they watch more films. This means great movies stand out more when you watch less overall.
  3. Tracking and reviewing the movies you watch can help you learn about your own tastes and make better choices in the future.

The carousel keeps turning

Austin Kleon • 5495 implied HN points • 21 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Media Community
  1. The newsletter celebrates reaching 200,000 subscribers with a special offer of 20% off paid subscriptions. This helps support the free newsletter for everyone.
  2. There is a blend of personal reflections, like enjoying a vintage stamp carousel, and sharing creative projects and recommendations, such as books and music.
  3. Useful advice on research techniques includes maintaining a routine, taking notes, and exploring diverse perspectives to enrich creativity and learning.

Election Update 2: Obama Instructs

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 5579 implied HN points • 05 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Leadership Media Public Opinion Political Commentary
  1. Obama is reminding everyone to stay calm and patient during slow election processes. Sometimes, it takes a long time to get results, and that's okay.
  2. Some people are finding Obama irritating lately, questioning his current relevance and influence. There are mixed feelings about his role in today's political climate.
  3. Early election results show Trump leading in Kentucky and Indiana. This could indicate a shift in voter preferences in these states.

Interview with the Previously Prohibited podcast

Karlstack • 91 implied HN points • 04 Jun 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Free speech Media Journalism Conservatism International relations
  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.

Letters to the Editor: Is Porn Really Inevitable?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 491 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Legislation Privacy Media Society Health
  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.
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T.V. News: Pledges, Hiatus, Wong Kar Wai Revisions

Textual Variations • 231 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Film Television Media Art Entertainment
  1. The author plans to take a break from publication to catch up on other priorities, which might cause gaps in the schedule this Spring. They hope to return to a regular posting schedule by May.
  2. Wong Kar Wai's classic film 'In the Mood for Love' is being reissued in China with new footage, and there are discussions about changes that may come with this release.
  3. The new animated series 'Invincible Fight Girl' is praised for its authentic anime style and storytelling, blending action with comedic elements in a unique way.

The Best Podcast of All Time!?

The Society of Problem Solvers • 299 implied HN points • 10 Oct 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Communication Entertainment Culture Health
  1. Many health issues like heart disease and anxiety are rising because of the poor quality of our food and medical advice. We need to pay attention to what we eat and who we trust for health advice.
  2. The current food system is corrupted, and we should look for alternatives that prioritize nutritious and safe options. It's important to demand transparency in what we consume.
  3. Society should focus on effective solutions to our problems rather than just discussing them. We can make a change by working together and valuing results.

Going Out on Top

We're Gonna Get Those Bastards • 5 implied HN points • 14 Jun 25
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Comics Entertainment Media
  1. It's good to know when to quit before you overstay your welcome. Leaving on a high note can help preserve your legacy.
  2. Creative exhaustion is a real thing. Sometimes it's better to stop while you're ahead rather than risk producing lesser work.
  3. Having a plan for after you leave an industry is important. Staying just for the money can lead to dissatisfaction later in life.

Heroin Chic Is Back

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1247 implied HN points • 05 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Body Image Fashion Health Media Celebrity
  1. The current trend of using weight-loss drugs like Ozempic has shifted how people view body image and the body positivity movement. Many now see the movement as unrealistic since more people are choosing to be thinner.
  2. The emphasis on thinness in Hollywood is more apparent than ever, with celebrities being scrutinized for their appearance on the red carpet. This has led to a resurgence of the 'heroin chic' aesthetic.
  3. Even celebrities who once promoted body positivity are now opting for weight loss, indicating a change in societal standards regarding body image and attractiveness.

a year in podcasts

ChinaTalk • 311 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🎙 Podcasts Media Culture History Technology Politics
  1. China's imperial examination system helped create stability but limited innovation. This has led to current challenges like economic stagnation and political succession issues.
  2. Recent discussions showed that trade alone doesn't change political systems. For instance, the Song dynasty had trade but remained autocratic.
  3. Policymakers need to make tough decisions instead of trying to balance too many interests. An example is the challenges faced by the Biden administration with the export controls on technology.

Is It Cool to Be Right-Wing Now?

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 375 implied HN points • 30 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Conservatism Media Culture Public Opinion Trends
  1. There seems to be new interest in right-wing beliefs, especially among younger people. This has sparked a lot of conversations online.
  2. A recent magazine cover featuring young Trump supporters has caused a lot of debate. People are discussing what it means for the future of politics.
  3. There's a question about whether conservatives should engage with reporters who don’t support their views. This is making people think about how to communicate across different beliefs.

Open Thread 366

Astral Codex Ten • 7089 implied HN points • 27 Jan 25
🕹 Technology AI Media Consulting Forecasting Education
  1. Anyone can share thoughts or ask questions in the open thread. It's a space for discussing anything on your mind.
  2. There are opportunities for people interested in AI safety, including a course that can help you get started in the field.
  3. An AI forecasting project is looking for news outlets to publish articles on future predictions about AI advancements.

When you get confused

Austin Kleon • 6454 implied HN points • 31 May 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Media Creativity
  1. It's okay if your writing isn't perfect at first. The important thing is to just get it out there.
  2. Taking time to relax and enjoy lighter activities can help balance out harder work, making you more creative.
  3. When you feel confused or stuck, sometimes just getting on your bike and listening to music can clear your mind.

How 1440 scaled its newsletter to 4 million subscribers

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 374 implied HN points • 23 Jan 25
💼 Business Media Marketing Entrepreneurship Growth Strategies Content creation
  1. Understanding the true value of a newsletter subscriber is crucial. Knowing how much revenue each subscriber brings helps in making smart decisions about how much to spend on acquiring new subscribers.
  2. Growing a newsletter takes strategic planning and iteration. Utilizing feedback from early subscribers and constantly improving the product can lead to high engagement and retention.
  3. Expanding beyond email can unlock new growth opportunities. Creating a platform for educational content helps connect curious learners with valuable resources, while also providing more inventory for advertisers.

The Daily Mail proves my point

Men Yell at Me • 235 implied HN points • 24 May 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Equality Trans rights Sports Media Culture
  1. Trans girls do not threaten cis girls; they are actually the ones facing threats. Everyone, including all children, deserves to compete in sports and be treated with love and protection.
  2. There's research that shows trans girls do not have an unfair advantage in sports. It’s important to focus on facts rather than fear.
  3. The response from major publications can reflect broader societal attitudes. The fact that a national paper spent time on a niche topic shows the ongoing normalization of transphobia in culture.

21 Pitch Calls from Paying Publications

The Sub Club Newsletter • 396 implied HN points • 04 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Writing Publishing Media Storytelling Lifestyle
  1. Editors are really busy right now and getting lots of pitches, so don't take it personally if you don't hear back right away.
  2. If you're unsure if a story idea will be popular, don't hesitate to pitch it. Your unique experience could resonate with many readers.
  3. There are many opportunities to pitch stories on various topics like lifestyle, politics, and ageism, so keep looking for the right fit for your ideas.

The Year's End

Animation Obsessive • 10135 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Animation Art Film Media Storytelling
  1. Animation has had a year of ups and downs. Big hits and mass job losses coexisted in America, while Japan's animation scene is growing despite some challenges.
  2. There are plenty of inspiring stories in the animation world, like independent creators making feature films or successful documentaries about past works. Art continues to find a way to shine through difficulties.
  3. The newsletter aims to celebrate good work and share intriguing stories, showing that even in tough times, passion and creativity can lead to great achievements.

The NBA All-Star Game is a circus (and that's okay)

Huddle Up • 28 implied HN points • 19 Feb 25
🎾 Sports Basketball Events Entertainment Culture Media
  1. The NBA All-Star Game isn't as exciting as it used to be. Fans and players are showing less interest, which affects the overall vibe of the event.
  2. No matter how the league tries to change things up, like adding new rules or incentives, it doesn't seem to make a difference in player engagement.
  3. It's okay to recognize that the All-Star Game has become more of a show than a serious competition, and that's part of its charm for some fans.

The meaning of, and in, McDonald's

Chris Arnade Walks the World • 2678 implied HN points • 11 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Community Sociology Cultural Studies Media Public Opinion
  1. McDonald's serves as a community hub for many Americans. It provides a comfortable place for people from all walks of life to gather and connect.
  2. Political figures like Trump tap into McDonald's popularity to resonate with average voters. His love for the franchise makes him seem relatable and down-to-earth.
  3. Many people facing challenges, like mental illness, find safety and social interaction in McDonald's. The staff and regulars often look out for each other, creating a supportive environment.

sunday meanpool

bad cattitude • 131 implied HN points • 02 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Humor Media Trends Social Internet
  1. Mean tweets are coming back, which feels nostalgic, like a blast from the past. It's like we've gone back to the 90s in some ways.
  2. Everyone seems to be talking about how those who don't like it will keep complaining. Some people just can’t resist hating on trends.
  3. There's a playful vibe in the air, as if everyone is ready to embrace the fun and chaos of old-school internet culture.

Some Thoughts On The Mystery Drones

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 2095 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Security Surveillance Public Opinion Media
  1. There have been many sightings of large drones on the east coast of the US, but the government claims it doesn't know who owns them or where they are from.
  2. Some reported sights may just be people misidentifying regular aircraft or stars, but there are still documented cases of unusual flying objects that don't fit these explanations.
  3. The US government either doesn't know what's happening with these drones or is not being honest about it, leading to a lot of speculation and concern among the public.

The Absurd Genius of Netflix Christmas Films

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1743 implied HN points • 21 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Film Media Holidays Trends Popular culture
  1. Netflix's holiday films, like 'Hot Frosty,' are intentionally over-the-top and silly. They embrace a kind of absurdity that attracts viewers despite being labeled as bad.
  2. Despite awful reviews, these films become hugely popular, sometimes hitting top viewership numbers on Netflix. People enjoy them even when critics don't.
  3. This phenomenon shows how different audiences have varying tastes. Some viewers love the escapism and fun of these cheesy holiday movies.

Thinking Under Fascism

Dada Drummer Almanach • 505 implied HN points • 28 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Art History Media Philosophy Politics
  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.

Doomscroll: Trevor Paglen

Joshua Citarella's Newsletter • 437 implied HN points • 02 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Art Media Politics Technology Design
  1. Trevor Paglen discusses how art connects technology and politics, showing us what can often be hidden or ignored. His work helps us think about the important issues behind new tech.
  2. He talks about 'psyops capitalism', where media creates content based on user behavior, which can shape our views and experiences.
  3. Paglen compares early UFO stories to today's social media disinformation, highlighting how misinformation has always been a part of our society.

Sometimes you have to slow down to speed up

Afridigest • 63 implied HN points • 15 Feb 25
💼 Business Entrepreneurship Media Health Innovation Community
  1. Slowing down can actually help you make better decisions in the long run. Taking a pause gives you time to reflect and avoid mistakes.
  2. Health challenges can lead to new perspectives and changes in plans. Overcoming such experiences can open doors to new opportunities.
  3. Creating a community and collaborating with others can enhance your projects. Listening to feedback helps improve your work and connect with your audience.

15 things I consumed this thing

Maybe Baby • 550 implied HN points • 17 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Parenting Personal Politics Trends
  1. A lot is happening with the Israel-Hamas conflict and there was a recent ceasefire agreement discussed in a New Yorker interview. It's interesting to learn how these agreements come about.
  2. Balancing life with a toddler can be tough, especially when they keep you up at night. It shows how parenting can be challenging and exhausting.
  3. Consuming different media can give us fresh perspectives on ongoing events. It’s good to stay informed and think about how various stories connect to our lives.

The Monday Media Diet with Emilia Petrarca

Why is this interesting? • 2232 implied HN points • 02 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Fashion Literature Travel Media Art
  1. The author has a deep love for fashion and culture writing, often consuming and creating content across many platforms. They follow a diverse range of publications and newsletters to stay informed.
  2. Reading is an important part of their routine, with a special interest in fiction, particularly romance. They also appreciate stories that showcase unique experiences, such as total eclipses.
  3. The author had a memorable experience with train travel and learned to be cautious with airplane food after a bad incident. They are passionate about sharing fun travel stories and quirky experiences.

Why the Term 'Porn Star' Should Go

The Take (by Jon Miltimore) • 218 implied HN points • 12 Oct 24
🎭️ Culture Language Media Society Feminism Sexuality
  1. The term 'porn star' is misleading because most performers aren't actually stars, just regular actors in adult films.
  2. Using euphemisms like 'porn star' can distort the truth and make serious topics less clear, which isn't helpful.
  3. The glamorization of pornography through phrases like 'porn star' raises questions about how we view and talk about these actors in society.

That Which Can Be Destroyed By The Truth, Should Be

Caitlin’s Newsletter • 1937 implied HN points • 16 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Media Journalism Secrecy Truth
  1. Truth can be really powerful, and it often challenges the lies that support unfair systems. When we know the truth, it becomes harder for those in power to take advantage of others.
  2. In a fair society, those with more power should be more transparent, while those with less power need protection from being exploited. This way, everyone can feel safe and treated fairly.
  3. Facing the truth can be scary because it may change relationships and challenge our beliefs. However, embracing truth is essential for growth and a healthier society.

Wandsworth Prison Blues

Wrong Side of History • 365 implied HN points • 22 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Society Entertainment Criminal Justice Human behavior
  1. A British prison officer became famous for being in an explicit video with an inmate, which caused a lot of social media buzz. This incident shows how some scandalous situations can quickly go viral and attract public attention.
  2. The officer, while married and a mother, had an OnlyFans account where she shared adult content, reflecting a trend among some individuals in the public eye to mix their private lives with explicit online personas.
  3. The video was recorded by a fellow inmate, highlighting a certain rebellious culture within the prison. This culture can create unusual dynamics among inmates and staff, sometimes leading to serious consequences.

Austen saved me from social media

The Common Reader • 708 implied HN points • 06 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Philosophy Media Social
  1. Reading Jane Austen can offer a refreshing break from the fast-paced and often shallow content of social media. It allows for a deeper engagement with language and storytelling.
  2. Switching from social media to classic literature can feel challenging at first, but it can lead to a rewarding reading experience. The complexity of Austen's writing is like a nutritious meal compared to fast food.
  3. Engaging with classic literature may require patience and effort, but it ultimately helps to develop a more thoughtful and enriching perspective on communication and social interactions.

The Monday Media Diet with Joe Weisenthal

Why is this interesting? • 1206 implied HN points • 23 Dec 24
🎙 Podcasts Media Interviews Reviews Music Culture
  1. Joe Weisenthal loves using Twitter in the morning to catch up on fast finance news, but he also checks his email and Bloomberg for important updates.
  2. He enjoys reading Substack newsletters, especially about country music and geopolitics, and he recommends some that he thinks others should follow too.
  3. Weisenthal has spent years exploring media theory and believes it helps understand today's changes in society and technology, particularly with social media.

America This Week, Friday, November 8th, 2024 Livestream: Election Week Postmortem, 10 am ET

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 3952 implied HN points • 08 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Analysis Political Commentary Media Current Events
  1. There will be a live discussion about the recent elections on November 8, 2024. It's a chance to go over what happened during the election week.
  2. The show is hosted by Walter Kirn and Matt Taibbi. Viewers can tune in to hear their insights and analysis.
  3. The livestream is open to everyone and will take place at 10 am ET. People are encouraged to join for this special event.

Ampersanding

Austin Kleon • 4995 implied HN points • 07 Jun 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Media Philosophy
  1. The ampersand symbol comes from the Latin word 'et', meaning 'and'. It shows how language can evolve over time.
  2. It's important to revisit your old notes because they can remind you of ideas and thoughts you may have forgotten.
  3. Finding the right music for writing is key; it should be upbeat but not too distracting so you can focus on your thoughts.

How Trump is exploiting our scarcest resource

Robert Reich • 19988 implied HN points • 12 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Election Attention Media Candidates Campaigning
  1. Our attention is a scarce resource that is being exploited by individuals like Donald Trump for political gain.
  2. As demands on our attention increase from various sources like social media, our ability to focus elsewhere decreases.
  3. By dominating public attention through provocations, Trump can make other candidates, like Biden, appear weaker and less significant.

A Note from Bari—and Our Big Thanksgiving Deal

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 2712 implied HN points • 27 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Media Journalism Public Opinion Political Analysis
  1. The Free Press has grown to over 935,000 subscribers, showing strong support and trust from the audience. This growth is almost double compared to last year.
  2. They have covered significant events like the presidential election, focusing on real issues and voices from everyday Americans, which has shaped their trusted reporting.
  3. The organization is expanding its presence through documentaries, podcasts, and live events, aiming to engage with the community and enhance its media offerings.

The Monday Media Diet with Crispin Burke

Why is this interesting? • 904 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
📚 Literature Books Authors Reading Media Culture
  1. Consuming a lot of media is essential for staying informed. Many people start their day by checking multiple news sites and apps.
  2. Reading physical books with highlighters can enhance memory and engagement compared to digital reading. People often find physical interaction with print books more satisfying.
  3. Exploring unique travel destinations can be rewarding. Places like Hood River, Oregon, offer great food, hiking, and easy access to different climates.

A 'Secret History'-ish period mystery, a great '90s true-crime black comedy, and four songs I like

Read Max • 711 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Film Music Art Media
  1. There's a cool mystery book set in the 1900s, inspired by 'The Secret History.' It blends academic settings with intrigue.
  2. A fun '90s true crime black comedy is highlighted, exploring themes of media and ambition. It's both entertaining and thought-provoking.
  3. Four music tracks are recommended, showing the author's current favorites. It's a great way to discover new tunes.