Kat Tenbarge

In this engaging discussion, Kat Tenbarge, a journalist at Spitfire News focused on LGBTQ+ issues, explores the unsettling trend of people returning to the closet. She dives into the complex relationship between online fame and queer identity, featuring case studies like Lohanthony. The conversation reveals the nuanced implications of conversion therapy, both historical and modern. It examines societal pressures, the impact of pop culture, and the critical need for empathy and acceptance in the LGBTQ+ community.

In this engaging discussion, journalist Kat Tenbarge and internet culture expert Taylor Lorenz tackle the controversial legacy of Charlie Kirk. They dissect how Kirk's staged debates were designed to misinform and radicalize youth. The conversation delves into the manipulation of his death to legitimize censorship, exploring tactics like doxxing and astroturfing. The guests share insights on how Turning Point USA mobilizes students and profited posthumously, reminding listeners of the voices affected by Kirk's politics. A critical deep dive into a contentious figure!

In this engaging discussion, journalist Kat Tenbarge, who investigates misogyny and the internet, dives into Lil Tay's explosive launch of her OnlyFans account shortly after turning 18. She unpacks the backlash from both sides of the political spectrum, revealing how the uproar is weaponized to silence free speech and threaten civil liberties. Kat also critiques the exploitation of young female influencers, the hypocrisy surrounding their choices, and the consequences of new legislation on marginalized communities, particularly in the discussion on online censorship.

Taylor Lorenz, a technology and culture reporter, and Kat Tenbarge, an online culture journalist, dive into the media frenzy surrounding Sydney Sweeney. They dissect her complex relationship with celebrity culture and the bizarre public fascination with her persona. The conversation explores the commercialization of celebrity, including how Sweeney’s branding intersects with sex work dynamics. They also critique the outrage fueled by media sensationalism and reflect on how societal standards for women are shaped by past and present controversies in advertising.

Taylor Lorenz, a former New York Times journalist, and Kat Tenbarge, formerly with NBC News, dive into the newfound aesthetic of young conservatism. They discuss how modern conservative fashion mirrors Reagan-era styles, appealing especially to women. The conversation highlights the rise of 'trad wives' and old money aesthetics, critiquing the performative nature of influencer culture. They also examine the Kardashians' evolving dating choices and the broader implications of cultural appropriation within today's political landscape.

Join Kat Tenbarge, an insightful independent journalist and creator of Spitfire News, as she dissects the current landscape of the #MeToo movement. They explore Hollywood's response to the movement's rise and fall, focusing on the conflicting narratives surrounding the Johnny Depp and Amber Heard trial. Kat emphasizes the role of social media in shaping public opinion and how crisis PR tactics can undermine social movements. The conversation reveals the complexities of navigating celebrity culture and its impact on genuine social change.

Caroline Kwan, a Twitch streamer known for her insights on pop culture and politics, joins Kat Tenbarge, an independent journalist focused on online culture, to dissect the implications of Sean "Diddy" Combs' recent acquittal on serious charges. They discuss how celebrity trials can affect sociopolitical narratives and the trivialization of serious accusations in meme culture. The conversation highlights the systemic misogyny that influences public perception, the backlash against the #MeToo movement, and the challenges women face in the realm of content creation.

Kat Tenbarge, author of Spitfire News, joins to dissect Taylor Swift's cultural dominance and recent controversies. They delve into whether Taylor has peaked, discussing her political caution and the reception of her latest album. Critiques highlight a perceived commercialism in the album's rollout and a decline in lyrical quality. The duo explores themes of authenticity, trad-wife imagery, and Swift's controversial associations with conservative figures, questioning her marketing strategies and future directions in her career.

Kat Tenbarge, a journalist specializing in complex public images of influencers, joins to shed light on Jojo Siwa's tumultuous journey from child star to cultural icon. They discuss the emotional toll of reality TV and the dark side of fame, exploring how scrutiny shapes her identity. Siwa’s iconic brand, her evolution in the spotlight, and the enduring impact of childhood stardom are examined, alongside a critique of societal expectations, gender norms, and the intersection of fame and mental health in her narrative.

Kat Tenbarge, a journalist specializing in gender-based harassment, joins to dissect the assault on Twitch streamer Emiru at TwitchCon. They discuss the failure of venue security and why more guards don’t necessarily make women safer. The conversation highlights how platform culture fosters misogyny and the consequences of weaponizing incidents for political agendas. Tenbarge emphasizes the need for real changes in Twitch's approach to harassment and accountability, shedding light on the complexities surrounding safety for women creators online.