The hottest Trends Substack posts right now

And their main takeaways
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Top Culture Topics

Doing This Again Makes Me Hate Myself and Hate You, But Yes, Something Happened to Liberalism in the 2010s, and Sometimes That Thing is Called "Woke"

Freddie deBoer • 8168 implied HN points • 14 Feb 25
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Liberalism Trends Change Ideology Identity
  1. American liberalism changed a lot during the 2010s. People who consider themselves liberals in 2020 are not the same as those from 2010.
  2. Some people deny that these changes happened, which seems dishonest. It's clear that the ideas and focus of liberalism evolved, especially around issues like race and gender.
  3. Despite personal opinions on whether these changes were good or bad, it's strange to argue that liberalism has always been the same when the evidence of change is so obvious.

Friday Thread: FEBRUARY OPEN CHAOS THREAD

Culture Study • 1205 implied HN points • 21 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Trends Community Lifestyle Mental health
  1. People are feeling a lot of fear and anxiety due to the current events. It's important to talk about these feelings and find ways to cope.
  2. Chaos can sometimes provide a distraction from the overwhelming emotions we face. Engaging in open conversations about our experiences can help.
  3. The social fabric is changing, and it's crucial to reflect on these changes. Sharing thoughts and feelings can be a way to process what's going on.

The Culture Scene Is Total Madness

The Honest Broker • 13298 implied HN points • 03 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Fashion Media Trends
  1. The culture scene is changing in odd ways, like Madonna trying stand-up comedy and a Van Gogh being sold for just $50 at a garage sale. It's making people question what is really important in art and entertainment.
  2. Vinyl record sales are confusing right now. Different reports say sales are either dropping significantly or growing, leaving many unsure about the future of the music industry.
  3. Some writers on Substack are starting to sell ads, which is surprising. This could change how independent authors make money and could lead to more big brands wanting to advertise in newsletters.

Luckin Out to Starbuck's Misfortune

Snaxshot • 519 implied HN points • 29 Oct 24
🍲 Food & Drink Beverages Dining Nutrition Trends Industry
  1. Luckin Coffee is gaining an edge over Starbucks, showing how competition in the coffee market can change quickly.
  2. There’s a rising trend for health-focused drinks, like pre-biotic cocktails, which mix wellness with socializing.
  3. More quick-service restaurants are using GLP-1, a drug for weight loss, to attract customers seeking healthier options.
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OnlyFans billboards are taking over

Taylor Lorenz's Newsletter • 2926 implied HN points • 31 May 25
🎭️ Culture Advertising Influencers Social media Trends
  1. OnlyFans is becoming more popular, with millions of creators joining the platform each year. This increase is leading to more billboards advertising these creators.
  2. Billboards are a smart way for OnlyFans stars to get noticed because they bypass strict online advertising rules for adult content. They can reach a wide audience without being ignored.
  3. Creators have seen big boosts in subscribers from their billboards, showing that this advertising method can really work in gaining attention and revenue.

Sauce physics

Blackbird Spyplane • 959 implied HN points • 24 Oct 24
🪞 Fashion & Beauty Clothing Trends Design Lifestyle Accessories
  1. Choosing the right fabric can really change how a piece of clothing feels and looks. It's important to think about material when picking out clothes.
  2. Teamwork is powerful, and sometimes big achievements come from people working together. Community connections can help create amazing things.
  3. There are unique, quality clothing pieces being made by independent designers, which can be really cool to discover and support. These designers often use sustainable materials and have interesting stories behind their creations.

The Bootleg Edition

Why is this interesting? • 1870 implied HN points • 04 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Art Music Fashion Merchandise Trends
  1. Bootlegging is now a normal part of the creative world, and it can even help brands grow. Artists and brands are beginning to embrace it as a form of new creativity rather than just a negative copy.
  2. Merchandise and bootleg items have become intertwined, with vintage pieces proving the value of new merchandise. This cycle helps brands to continue creating and offering new products to fans.
  3. Bootlegging often feels more genuine than mass-produced items. Unique, hand-made bootleg items can show a deeper connection and personal touch that many modern products lack.

Suzy Weiss: Comedians Should Not Be Hot

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 760 implied HN points • 17 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Comedy Fashion Trends Media Entertainment
  1. Comedians are often expected to be funny and not overly fashionable. This idea suggests that dressing too well can take away from their comedic persona.
  2. There is a concern that some comedians are focusing more on their appearance rather than their humor. Being stylish might not mix well with the rawness expected in comedy.
  3. The conversation reflects broader societal expectations on how different professions, like comedy, are perceived in terms of looks versus talent. It hints at a belief that authenticity in comedy is key.

In 2025, Your Boss Will Launch a Podcast

The Honest Broker • 21776 implied HN points • 28 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Media Art Entertainment Trends Influence
  1. In 2025, many companies will start their own podcasts, using them to promote themselves like infomercials. So get ready for your boss to ask you to help with that.
  2. The way businesses connect with clients is changing; some are now using podcasts as a sneaky way to hold meetings. It seems to work because people are curious when asked to join a podcast.
  3. Media companies that once tried to compete with independent platforms like Substack are now copying their model. This shows a huge shift in how content is being delivered and consumed.

Tuesday Thread: The Best Corners of Reddit

Culture Study • 1833 implied HN points • 11 Feb 25
🎭️ Culture Internet Community Society Social media Trends
  1. Reddit has many unique and specific communities that allow for thoughtful sharing and discussions. You can find advice and feedback that suits your interests.
  2. While Reddit is not perfect and can have its issues, it generally has good moderation that helps keep conversations on track.
  3. The dedication of many Reddit users often leads to valuable interactions and support within the platform's various subreddits.

The anti-It Bag

Blackbird Spyplane • 1059 implied HN points • 20 Oct 24
🪞 Fashion & Beauty Fashion Design Lifestyle Trends Style
  1. There's a new bag called the 'anti-It Bag' that is stylish and practical. It's made from leftover materials, easy to clean, and looks unique.
  2. Comfortable organic-cotton sweatpants made in the USA are highlighted as a great choice for relaxing. They come with warm knit accessories perfect for the colder months.
  3. Tips are shared on how to style your existing sweaters in fresh ways. There's also a cool wool snap cardigan mentioned as a great addition to your wardrobe.

Should you care about Dalvin Cook?

Stealing Signals • 259 implied HN points • 27 Oct 24
🎾 Sports Football Analysis Fantasy Trends Players
  1. Dalvin Cook's lack of playing time makes him a risky fantasy add, but the team's decision to activate him shows they are considering him more seriously now. It might be worth adding him to see if he can show some useful performance.
  2. While many people are skeptical about older running backs like Cook, he still has potential based on his past performance and the current state of the Cowboys' backfield. He could surprise and take on a larger role if he performs well.
  3. Overall, adding Dalvin Cook could be a good gamble this week, but keep in mind that it may not pay off. If he doesn't perform, cutting him from your team won't be a hard decision.

Talkin’ bout an AI Revolution: 3 scenarios

Faster, Please! • 365 implied HN points • 26 Feb 25
🕹 Technology AI Innovation Economics Forecasting Trends
  1. By 2030, we might still be at the start of a major AI development period. It's okay because this means we have a lot of exciting advancements ahead.
  2. More traditional institutions, like big banks, are now seriously talking about AI. This shows that AI is becoming a big deal in the mainstream world, not just in tech circles.
  3. Experts believe that as AI keeps getting better, the 2020s could see various new economic and technological changes. This could change how we live and work in many ways.

What happened in brand and agency: WPP struggles, Instagram & AdTech vs Sensitive Content and Fashion Week

The Social Juice • 22 implied HN points • 02 Mar 25
💼 Business Marketing Advertising Branding Economics Trends
  1. WPP is facing tough challenges, highlighting the pressures in the advertising industry. This might mean changes for many companies and advertisers in how they operate.
  2. Instagram recently dealt with backlash over graphic content on its platform. This shows the ongoing struggle between user experience and ad tech, as brands seek engagement without alienating users.
  3. Building a strong community around a brand is key. Companies should nurture their audiences, allowing them to engage and share value, making the community feel connected to the brand itself.

Shirts lookin' INKY!

Blackbird Spyplane • 1019 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🪞 Fashion & Beauty Clothing Design Trends Style Retail
  1. James Coward has released an exclusive capsule collection that includes jackets and button-ups. The pieces are made with high-quality materials from a reputable mill.
  2. Canoe Club and Engineered Garments are launching their second collaboration featuring hooded jackets inspired by classic outdoor styles. These jackets are designed for comfort and practicality.
  3. A giveaway event is being held for four jackets from the Canoe Club x Engineered Garments collection. Interested participants can enter through a simple button click in the email.

Seven Predictions for Tech in 2025

Big Technology • 7380 implied HN points • 20 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Social media Startups Trends Innovation
  1. Some companies might decide that generative AI isn't right for them, leading to at least one big name publicly quitting it in 2025. It's important for businesses to find what works for them.
  2. Social media may start feeling less relevant as platforms focus less on real news and engage more with content they think will grab our attention. This shift could make important global events seem distant.
  3. Brain-computer interface technology could gain more attention in 2025 as it continues to develop, possibly helping people with disabilities. This could spark new conversations around its potential benefits.

My Best Premium Tweets

Rob Henderson's Newsletter • 643 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🎭️ Culture Social media Opinions Trends Humor Digital Culture
  1. The author shares their best tweets that are exclusive to subscribers. These tweets include personal thoughts, observations, and opinions.
  2. Subscribers can find insights that are informal and quirky, providing a more personal touch.
  3. The collection highlights the author's unique perspective and offers a chance for readers to connect with their ideas directly.

15 things I consumed this week

Maybe Baby • 1006 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Media Literature Art Trends Lifestyle
  1. Emotional labor is often misunderstood and used incorrectly. It's good to learn the right terms to communicate feelings clearly.
  2. Rethinking how we talk about emotions can improve our conversations. Using the right language helps express what we really feel.
  3. Being aware of our consumption, whether it's content or emotions, can lead to better understanding ourselves. Reflecting on what we take in daily can help us grow.

Boring niches are extremely valuable

Simon Owens's Media Newsletter • 349 implied HN points • 06 Feb 25
💼 Business Media Monetization Publications Trends
  1. Boring niches in media can be very profitable, as they often provide unique insights that larger publications may overlook. This means that publications focusing on less glamorous topics can attract a dedicated audience.
  2. There's a dilemma in the media about whether to prioritize quality journalism or profitability. Some outlets might keep their paywalls but cut back on original content, which might affect their credibility.
  3. Short-form content, like mini dramas, is gaining traction and proving successful in markets like China, hinting that there may be untapped potential for similar formats elsewhere.

2024 in Review

Freddie deBoer • 4331 implied HN points • 30 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Music Media Youth Trends Society Criticism
  1. The 'brat' meme seemed to be more popular with older generations, and it might not really reflect what younger people actually enjoy or connect with.
  2. Many people in media feel pressured to stay relevant and youthful, leading them to embrace trends like 'brat' to seem more in touch.
  3. There's a growing disconnect where older writers might misinterpret the interests of younger audiences, wanting to feel young themselves through cultural phenomena.

Niall Ferguson: The Vibe Shift Goes Global

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 6543 implied HN points • 12 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Trends Pop culture Aesthetics Geopolitics Society
  1. Culture influences politics and geopolitics, making it important to understand cultural trends.
  2. There have been distinct vibe shifts in pop culture over the years, each with its own style, like Hipster/Indie and Hypebeast/Woke.
  3. Recent changes in tech culture reflect a shift towards a more unfiltered environment, especially with Elon Musk's influence.

Guest post: Met Gala on Black Style: Superfine or Superflop?

The Sociology of Business • 378 implied HN points • 17 Oct 24
🪞 Fashion & Beauty Trends Events Branding Cultural impact Style
  1. Brand affinity helps create good feelings about a brand, but it’s important to also think about a brand's context in the world.
  2. Positionality means understanding how a brand is viewed based on its place in society and culture.
  3. For brands, the Met Gala can be a chance to blend excitement with deeper meaning by recognizing both connections and the bigger picture.

Hidden Open Thread 383.5

Astral Codex Ten • 412 implied HN points • 29 May 25
🎭️ Culture Community Discussion Social Opinion Trends
  1. This post is designed for paying subscribers only. It's important to support content creators by subscribing if you enjoy their work.
  2. There is a comment section for readers to engage and share their thoughts. It's a good way to connect with others who have similar interests.
  3. The post may include various topics for discussion, making it a flexible space for sharing ideas and perspectives. It's a nice way to explore different viewpoints.

Art in the Age of Slop

Counter Craft • 2332 implied HN points • 09 Jan 25
📚 Literature Fiction Publishing Authors Plagiarism Trends
  1. There's a rise in formulaic and generic content in art, like books and social media, as creators chase trends instead of focusing on originality. This 'slop' culture is influenced by algorithms that favor imitation over creativity.
  2. Even popular novels can suffer from issues like plagiarism, especially in fast-paced publishing environments where multiple people contribute to the writing. This raises questions about the integrity and originality of the work produced.
  3. Despite the challenges, creating original work is still worthwhile. Unique and thoughtful art can resonate with audiences looking for something different, and it allows creators to express their true selves rather than just following the crowd.

A Culture Study Mirror

Culture Study • 3295 implied HN points • 29 Dec 24
🎭️ Culture Essays Media Trends Identity Critique
  1. You don't have to read everything an author puts out. Just engaging with some of their work is enough, and that's something to celebrate.
  2. There’s a lot of content available, including popular essays and personal favorites, so there’s always something new or interesting to discover.
  3. Being proud of what you create is important, and it’s okay to highlight the work that feels very personal or meaningful to you.

How Fireship became YouTube's favorite programmer

engineercodex • 635 implied HN points • 09 Oct 24
🕹 Technology Software Education Media Trends Content creation
  1. Fireship's videos are short and fast-paced. This keeps viewers engaged and encourages them to watch more.
  2. He uses humor to make learning fun. His jokes and memes help explain complex topics in a way that's easy to understand.
  3. Fireship combines trending topics with timeless content. This strategy helps him attract a lot of views both right away and over time.

Fashion Police: Inauguration Edition

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 1265 implied HN points • 20 Jan 25
🪞 Fashion & Beauty Fashion Style Trends Events
  1. The fashion at the inauguration was eye-catching, with different styles making statements. Kamala Harris wore a casual suit while others, like Melania Trump, dressed more formally.
  2. The weather was very cold, prompting changes to the swearing-in ceremony's location. This chilly atmosphere likely influenced attendees' clothing choices.
  3. Lauren Sánchez drew attention with a bold and daring outfit that some found inappropriate but also exciting. It definitely stood out among the more traditional looks.

The Sweatshirt V-Notch Edition

Why is this interesting? • 1146 implied HN points • 14 Jan 25
🪞 Fashion & Beauty Clothing Design Trends Functionality History
  1. The V-notch on sweatshirts started out as a practical feature for absorbing sweat and allowing flexibility. It was created for football players to wear comfortably.
  2. Many sweatshirts today have the V-notch but it's mostly for style, not function. It's interesting how practical designs can become just a fashion statement over time.
  3. Learning about fabric manufacturing, like Loopwheeler's unique approach, helps us appreciate quality and the history behind our everyday clothing.

Which CEO will be the last to see it?

Marcus on AI • 4624 implied HN points • 05 Dec 24
🕹 Technology AI Innovation CEOs Trends Industry
  1. Many people were skeptical about the hype around Generative AI during 2022 and 2023. Some experts believe that the truth about its capabilities will eventually become clear.
  2. Several tech leaders are starting to see and admit the limitations of current AI models. This signals a possible shift in how the industry views AI's effectiveness going forward.
  3. To achieve greater advancements, experts suggest integrating different methodologies, like neurosymbolic AI, which could help overcome current challenges in AI development.

The Martini is Dead, Long Live the Martini

Residual Thoughts • 138 implied HN points • 23 Oct 24
🍲 Food & Drink Cocktails Trends Culture Alcohol
  1. Ordering complex cocktails like mezcal negronis in casual places might seem out of place, but there's nothing wrong with enjoying what you love.
  2. Martinis are making a comeback after a dip in popularity, highlighting a shift in drinking trends among people.
  3. Non-alcoholic drinks and lower-alcohol options are becoming more popular, as many look for alternatives while still wanting to enjoy social settings.

The Raunchy Right Has Triumphed

Common Sense with Bari Weiss • 431 implied HN points • 31 Jan 25
🎭️ Culture Pop culture Political culture Media Society Trends
  1. A new MAGA-themed pinup calendar has been released, showing a shift in American culture influenced by conservative ideas.
  2. The calendar is promoted as a symbol of a 'golden age' by the company behind it, reflecting their political stance.
  3. This is part of a larger trend where conservative themes are becoming more prominent in pop culture and marketing.

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.

180,000 People Made Me Bearish On "Better For You" Sodas

Snaxshot • 539 implied HN points • 30 Sep 24
🍲 Food & Drink Beverages Trends Branding Innovation
  1. People are showing a strong interest in classic flavors, especially sodas that remind them of their childhood. Brands that focus on nostalgia are getting a lot of attention.
  2. New drinks like AG1 are trying to reach mainstream audiences by teaming up with popular spots like Starbucks. This helps them gain visibility without the high price tags.
  3. Condiments and butter are seeing fresh ideas, with new flavors becoming popular. It's exciting to see how brands are innovating everyday products to attract younger buyers.

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.

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.

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 Trenderprise

benn.substack • 818 implied HN points • 03 Jan 25
🕹 Technology Software Marketing User Experience Trends
  1. Many people dislike using software like Jira because it's complicated and not user-friendly. But ironically, it keeps being bought because management, not the users, are the ones making the decisions.
  2. The market has shifted towards buying software that meets the needs of users rather than IT departments. Companies like Asana market directly to users, making their products popular among teams.
  3. Today, product popularity can be influenced more by trends and social media than by quality. People are more likely to buy something because it's seen as cool or trendy, not just because it works well.