The hottest Media Substack posts right now

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An ayahuasca fan’s take on the Aaron Rodgers documentary

The Rubesletter by Matt Ruby (of Vooza) | Sent every Tuesday • 570 implied HN points • 08 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Entertainment Media Sports Wellness Psychology
  1. Aaron Rodgers talks about perfectionism in the documentary, saying it often makes us feel broken inside. He believes we can learn to be more emotional and vulnerable, especially as men.
  2. The idea of 'ego death' is discussed, but it seems Rodgers may misunderstand it as a fixed goal. True ego death is more like an ongoing journey rather than something you can achieve completely.
  3. The documentary feels more like a personal promotion for Rodgers than a deep exploration of his life. It misses key questions about his past decisions and relationships.

Note on Tonight's ATW Livestream: 8 pm ET, also on Substack

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 2227 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🎙 Podcasts Livestream Accessibility Media Content creation Audience engagement
  1. The show is trying new ways to make it easier for people to watch. They want to reach more viewers by streaming it on different platforms.
  2. The livestream will be available on X/Twitter and the Substack app, helping more people join in.
  3. Viewers will get an email notification when the show goes live, so they won’t miss it.

Best Housekeeping Yet!

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 397 implied HN points • 13 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Music Philosophy Media
  1. There are big plans for 2025 at The Hinternet, including new features, a call for submissions with a good pay rate, and looking for new contributors and voice actors.
  2. A new publication called The Oort Cloud Review is set to launch soon, and it’s expected to make a significant impact.
  3. The Hinternet is trying to distance itself from low-investment free subscribers and is focusing on fostering genuine engagement from dedicated readers.

Republican officials threaten to remove Biden from the ballot

Popular Information • 13915 implied HN points • 08 Jan 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Immigration Constitution Media Democracy
  1. Republican officials are threatening to remove President Biden from the ballot due to his immigration policies.
  2. The threat is based on a white nationalist conspiracy theory and applying the 14th Amendment to disqualify Trump from the ballot.
  3. Media outlets are discussing the implications of removing Trump from the ballot and the constitutional requirements for presidential candidates.

What Are You Reading (In November)??

Culture Study • 1897 implied HN points • 26 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Literature Art Society Media Community
  1. Consider supporting local families in need, like helping them afford a van for transportation. It can make a huge difference for their daily lives.
  2. Stay mindful of consumerism during the holiday season. Focus on meaningful gifts and contributions rather than just buying for the sake of it.
  3. Engage in discussions about what others are reading. Sharing book recommendations can lead to great conversations and new perspectives.
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ATW Livestream Tonight at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 2185 implied HN points • 18 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Legislation Political Commentary Media Public Opinion
  1. There will be a livestream discussing the recent presidential election and its aftermath. It's a good chance to catch up on the latest news.
  2. California is still counting its election results, with only 93% tabulated so far. This delay has led to some jokes about when they'll finish counting.
  3. Hosts Matt Taibbi and Walter Kirn will talk about high-profile figures visiting Mar-a-Lago. They might explore the significance of such visits in the current political climate.

In 2024, the Tension Between Macroculture and Microculture Will Turn into War

The Honest Broker • 31517 implied HN points • 06 Dec 23
🎭️ Culture Media Social Dynamics Entertainment
  1. The tension between macroculture and microculture is escalating and will turn into a war in 2024.
  2. Despite the dominance of legacy media, alternative platforms in the microculture are growing rapidly and have a significant impact on the media landscape.
  3. The traditional institutions are reluctant to embrace the microculture, leading to a war where the microculture creators are pitted against the very platforms they rely on.

Inside Candace Owens plans to dominate women's media

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 3642 implied HN points • 29 Jan 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Conservatism Gender Issues Influencers Cultural Trends
  1. Candace Owens is starting a new women's media brand called Club Candace. It will focus on traditional values and aims to empower young mothers with various content and community support.
  2. Owens believes many women are unhappy with modern feminist ideals and traditional gender roles. She wants to promote a lifestyle centered around motherhood and family.
  3. Despite her pro-motherhood stance, Owens opposes policies like paid maternity leave and universal childcare. This creates a clash as many people support better benefits for working mothers.

An Exquisite Panorama of Links & Recs

Culture Study • 2103 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Media Sports Podcasts Literature Art
  1. The author discusses women's sports and gender issues in a recent podcast episode, offering a unique perspective compared to mainstream media.
  2. They are taking a break for a cycling trip but have gathered some recommended readings to share, focusing on topics outside of politics.
  3. Paid subscribers can access additional content and discussions each week, which includes in-depth threads and personal insights.

Is Elon Musk Actually Evil?

Erik Examines • 179 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Government Leadership Media Public Opinion Political Extremism
  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.

UPDATE: Woman charged with homicide of Mika Westwolf 

Popular Information • 19890 implied HN points • 24 Oct 23
📰 News Crime Justice Indigenous Investigation Media
  1. A woman has been charged with the homicide of Mika Westwolf after initially facing lesser charges
  2. Investigation into Mika Westwolf's death gained national attention after being under-resourced and misfocused initially
  3. Mika Westwolf's mother engaged in a campaign raising awareness about her daughter's case and other missing and murdered Indigenous women

The end of the live streamer mega deals

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 399 implied HN points • 10 Jan 25
💼 Business Media Streaming Marketing Content creation Publishing
  1. Many livestreamers who signed huge contracts with platforms like YouTube and Mixer are now returning to Twitch as their contracts end. It shows a shift back to where they started, highlighting the unpredictable nature of streaming deals.
  2. Podcasts, especially video podcasts, are growing in value and popularity. They offer creators a chance to reach more people and compete better with big media, but they still aren't fully recognized by traditional media companies.
  3. Apple TV+ is cleverly marketing its shows by giving away earlier seasons for free on platforms like Roku. This approach can attract new subscribers and create buzz for upcoming seasons, but not all streaming services are doing this.

Best of 2024

Obvious Bicycle • 723 implied HN points • 31 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Music Art Literature Media Events
  1. The best of 2024 includes a wide range of media like songs, movies, and books that made an impact. It's great to keep track of what we've enjoyed over the year.
  2. Live events like concerts and stand-up shows are memorable experiences that often stand out. They bring joy and a sense of community.
  3. Quotes from various sources can inspire us and offer different perspectives on life. They remind us to think deeply and reflect on our experiences.

A Sex Strike isn't Going to Work

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 7576 implied HN points • 17 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Feminism Society Media History Politics Gender
  1. Cultural appropriation happens when one group takes aspects of another group's culture without understanding its significance. American women joining the South Korean 4B movement might be seen as doing this, as they are adopting a struggle that is not theirs.
  2. A collective sex strike faces many challenges. It requires everyone to agree and act together, which is hard since individuals might choose to break the strike and miss out on the potential benefits without facing consequences.
  3. Looking at history, past movements didn't always work out as planned. Striking for change isn't as simple as withholding something, especially in a democracy where individual freedoms and choices are valued.

Is Honest Writing the Next New Thing in Journalism?

The Honest Broker • 18551 implied HN points • 13 Mar 24
🎭️ Culture Journalism Writing Honesty Media Communication
  1. Honesty in writing can be a powerful tool to break down obstacles and strengthen your writing and thinking.
  2. There are many reasons why writers are dishonest, such as to please editors, gain favors, or increase popularity.
  3. Embracing an 'honest writing style' can lead to a shift in your writing, making it more conversational and impactful.

I should not be left to my own devices

Jeff Giesea • 798 implied HN points • 03 Sep 24
🎭️ Culture Society Mental health Parenting Media Digital Culture
  1. The rise of smartphones and social media has led to increased anxiety and depression in Gen Z, starting around 2010. Parents are encouraged to be stricter with screen time while allowing more freedom in real life.
  2. Many adults, including parents, struggle with their own screen addiction, making it hard to guide younger generations. It's important to recognize personal habits before teaching children about healthy device usage.
  3. Empathy for Gen Z's struggles is crucial, as they face unique challenges in a digital world. Understanding their experiences can help foster better communication and support.

Figure it out

Austin Kleon • 4556 implied HN points • 03 May 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Film Media
  1. Reading is valuable! Check out books that focus on writing good sentences; they can help improve your own writing.
  2. Exploring how artists work can inspire creativity. Look into features and documentaries about artists at different stages of their careers.
  3. Listening to music and podcasts about music can open your mind to new genres and artists. It’s a great way to relax and discover something new.

Oh, hail no!

Austin Kleon • 5615 implied HN points • 12 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Arts Literature Comics Media Music
  1. Standard Ebooks offers free and well-designed versions of classic books that are in the public domain. You can read great works without paying a dime.
  2. Working with your hands, like drawing or crafting, is really good for your brain. It's a nice way to relax and be creative.
  3. There’s a great community around Lynda Barry’s Comics Room that supports artists. It's a place where creativity and collaboration can really thrive.

why isn't there an A24 for kids?

Both Are True • 316 implied HN points • 16 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Film Parenting Entertainment Media Art
  1. Kids' shows often lack quality and depth, making parents feel frustrated. There's a desire for children's entertainment to be more meaningful and engaging.
  2. There's a call for a new type of kids' entertainment, similar to the indie film vibe, that tackles real emotions and experiences. The idea is to create stories that aren't just light and fluffy.
  3. Finding good, classic content for kids can be a challenge. Parents want options that are both entertaining and enriching for their children.

Tuesday Thread: What Are You Watching?

Culture Study • 1859 implied HN points • 19 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Television Film Media Entertainment Arts
  1. Watching shows can be a great way to escape tough emotions like grief. It allows us to get lost in stories that can be comforting.
  2. Having a show that moves quickly, like _The Diplomat_, can make it easy to binge-watch when feeling low. It provides a distraction from daily stress.
  3. Strong performances by actors, like Alison Janney's in _The Diplomat_, can enhance the viewing experience and make the story even more engaging.

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 Propaganda Media Civil Rights Foreign Policy Israel-Palestine
  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.

Diamonds and dictionaries

Austin Kleon • 5095 implied HN points • 19 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Music Philosophy Media
  1. Life is short, so choosing to live playfully can enhance your experience. A new documentary about Hans Zimmer shows how creativity and playfulness can lead to interesting discoveries.
  2. The Criterion Channel now offers a continuous stream of films, so you can watch without deciding what to choose. It's a great way to enjoy movies while working or relaxing.
  3. Women artists often create their work in small moments throughout the day. This highlights the importance of finding time for creativity in our busy lives.

Cooper Flagg Should Sue The Guardian For Premeditated Offense Archaeology

Singal-Minded • 761 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🎾 Sports Basketball Media Criticism Culture Athletes
  1. Cooper Flagg is a talented basketball player heading to the NBA draft, which is notable since American-born white players are rare at that level. This makes him a subject of unique interest.
  2. The article about him tries to link his potential impact on basketball to another player, Caitlin Clark, but fails to explain why he is considered 'discourse-breaking'.
  3. The writer seems to be digging for offense in the article where there may not be much, raising questions about the need to politicize college basketball through Flagg's story.

Transcript - America This Week, Dec. 13, 2024: "Assassination Tales and Rubber Elephants"

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 1054 implied HN points • 14 Dec 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Crime Media Health Society Events
  1. A recent crime event feels scripted and curated, almost like a story meant for social media, rather than a spontaneous act. This suggests that media shapes how we perceive and react to events.
  2. The manifesto related to the crime is very short and seems to have been crafted for easy consumption, reflecting the fast-paced attention spans of today’s audiences.
  3. The narrative around the assassination contains underlying themes and agendas, almost as if it was created to fuel discussions and opinions before it even happened.

Can a Writers Strike Save Hollywood from Monopoly?

BIG by Matt Stoller • 53286 implied HN points • 14 May 23
🎭️ Culture Entertainment Labor Media Economics Monopolies
  1. Hollywood is facing a crisis with streaming services struggling to profit while dominating the industry.
  2. Legal changes in the U.S. over the years have stripped independent producers of bargaining power, impacting the quality of content.
  3. The ongoing writers' strike highlights the need to address the structural issues in the industry caused by consolidation and lack of market signals.

ATW Livestream Tonight at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 2276 implied HN points • 04 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Elections Political Commentary Media Livestreams Polling
  1. Live stream discussing Election Day happens tonight at 8 PM ET/7 PM CT. It's a chance to hear predictions and polls.
  2. The mood seems heavy as it's described as 'the end of an era' with Election Day approaching. Regardless of the result, anxiety is expected to continue.
  3. Fans of current events can look forward to lively discussions and insights during the live stream, making it an engaging watch.

Hope, Small but Strong

Animation Obsessive • 7355 implied HN points • 11 Nov 24
🎭️ Culture Art Film Animation Media Storytelling
  1. Michael Sporn created unique animated films that told important stories, even if they were often overlooked. His work was heartfelt and showcased real human experiences.
  2. The film 'Champagne' tells the story of a girl living in a shelter, highlighting her struggles and hope for the future. It's well-made and received awards despite being lesser-known today.
  3. Sporn's animation style was creative and personal, using improvised techniques that added warmth and charm to his films, showing that art can thrive even under tight budgets.

Change the Narrative

Personality Disorder • 79 implied HN points • 15 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Baseball Media Analysis Commentary Narrative
  1. People are using the word 'narrative' too much, instead of just saying 'story'. Using the simpler term makes communication clearer.
  2. When someone talks about a 'narrative', they often mean how people are talking about a situation rather than just stating facts. This can make the conversation less genuine.
  3. Focusing on the actual event or story, rather than the narrative around it, can help us see things more clearly and appreciate the real impact of what happens.

Why news publishers will probably never solve their keyword blocking problem

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 449 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
💼 Business Media Advertising Marketing Content creation Technology
  1. News publishers struggle with keyword blocking, which prevents ads from appearing next to even safe content. This leads to a loss of potential revenue, as brands avoid placing ads near any political content.
  2. Affiliate links can be affected by browser extensions like Honey, which may replace original links with their own. This means creators might miss out on commissions they rightly earned.
  3. Sports team social media managers are often underpaid compared to other industries, despite the high demands of the job and the expectation of constant engagement.

"Family Abolition" and the COVID Pandemic

Igor’s Newsletter • 8903 implied HN points • 04 Feb 24
🎭️ Culture Family Media Health
  1. Influential thought leaders are advocating for "family abolition" to reshape societal relationships.
  2. The COVID-19 pandemic and vaccine promotions have contributed to the breakdown of many families.
  3. Efforts to mend broken family ties, especially due to COVID-19 vaccine differences, are essential to combat societal discord promoted by divisive media.

Warm Holiday Greetings from The Hinternet

Justin E. H. Smith's Hinternet • 639 implied HN points • 24 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Art Literature Media Community Creativity
  1. The author feels a strong connection to their work and has embraced writing authentically without worrying about others' opinions. This has helped them tap into deep creative ideas.
  2. In 2024, the publication grew significantly and became more like a magazine, bringing on staff and accepting guest pieces. This has created a sense of community among younger writers.
  3. The author hopes to increase paid subscriptions to support future projects and plans for 2025. They welcome all kinds of support, whether it's through subscriptions or simply sharing their work with others.

Gen Z’s Jerry Springer show

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 3194 implied HN points • 24 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Trends Social Issues Entertainment Youth culture
  1. Jubilee Media aims to promote empathy and healthy discussions through social experiments and debates. They want to show different viewpoints but need to be careful with misinformation.
  2. The format of Jubilee's videos can sometimes lead to controversial discussions, making some critics think they're just trying to create drama for views.
  3. The rise of technology, like AI and video sharing at fast speeds, is changing how we experience media and interact, like using QR codes at weddings instead of hashtags.

Transcript - America This Week November , 2024: "The Insanity Era Dies. What's Next?"

TK News by Matt Taibbi • 1738 implied HN points • 16 Nov 24
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Media Elections Public Opinion Political Analysis Journalism
  1. Mainstream media is losing its audience and facing layoffs after an election loss. Many viewers are turning to conservative outlets instead.
  2. The current media environment seems to be failing as it struggles to predict election outcomes and meet audience expectations.
  3. There's a sense that the media's influence is diminishing, especially as they no longer have strong ties to the government or political figures.

When you hear it

Austin Kleon • 5115 implied HN points • 05 Apr 24
🎭️ Culture Art Music Literature Film Media Nature
  1. Experiences like a solar eclipse can be felt with your whole body, not just seen. Sounds from nature during such events can be unique and delightful.
  2. Creating a mixtape or playlist can be a fun way to share music inspired by special events like an eclipse.
  3. Rejecting ideas can hurt your creativity. It's important to explore your own thoughts and not just follow what others want.