

It's Been a Minute
NPR
Has it been a minute since you heard a thought-provoking conversation about culture? Brittany Luse wants to help. Each week, she takes the things everyone's talking about and, in conversation with her favorite creators, tastemakers, and experts, gives you new ways to think about them. Beyond the obvious takes. Because culture doesn't happen by accident.If you can't get enough, try It's Been a Minute Plus. Your subscription supports the show and unlocks a sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/itsbeenaminute
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 13, 2025 • 17min
L.A. was first. Now it's your move, America.
Recent ICE raids in Los Angeles have ignited protests across the nation, revealing deep divisions in public support. Voices from the streets share powerful personal stories, highlighting accountability in governmental actions. The discussion dives into the historical role of protest within democracy, emphasizing its necessity for civil rights. How do authoritarian actions affect community unity? The conversation explores the need for solidarity and the collective effort required to shape America's political future.

Jun 12, 2025 • 18min
Want to date a rich man? It's harder than you think.
Wailin Wong, co-host of NPR's The Indicator, and Reema Khrais, host of Marketplace's This Is Uncomfortable, explore the quest for financial stability in dating. They dissect the viral TikTok trend around dating wealthy partners, addressing the complexities of discussing finances in relationships. The conversation touches on cultural expectations, the impact of social media, and the evolving dynamics of modern romance influenced by economic realities. Insights into emotional motivations reveal how desires for secure partners often stem from deeper needs for healing.

Jun 11, 2025 • 16min
Oh no...I got "The Ick." What do I do now?
Dive into the perplexing world of 'The Ick'—that cringe-worthy moment when a minor quirk of a date sends you running for the hills! Experts and hosts share humorous anecdotes while exploring how such feelings might reveal more about us than our partners. They dissect the societal pressures that shape our aversions in romance and examine the fine line between quirky charm and deal-breaker. With personal stories and psychological insights, the discussion illuminates the complex dance of attraction and repulsion in dating.

Jun 9, 2025 • 18min
How to win (or lose) a break up on social media
Rebecca Jennings, a senior correspondent at Vox, dives into the explosive world of breakup culture on social media. She discusses how public posts can capture both the humor and heartbreak of breakups. The conversation examines the fine line between personal expression and privacy invasion, highlighting the risks and potential communal healing that come with sharing these experiences online. Jennings explores the influence of celebrity splits and viral moments, shedding light on the complexities of navigating breakups in the digital realm.

5 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 18min
The Pride month vibes are off, but there's still hope.
Raquel Willis, an acclaimed author and movement organizer, joins Tre'vell Anderson, a culture journalist and co-host of Black Queer Canon, to discuss the mixed feelings surrounding Pride Month this year. They explore the challenges posed by legislative attacks and corporate withdrawal, while questioning the true meaning of pride. The conversation delves into the complexities of inclusivity within Black and trans communities, celebrates the resilience of the queer community, and calls for a return to the movement's radical roots.

Jun 4, 2025 • 18min
"White genocide" isn't a thing. Trump disagrees.
Joining the discussion are Kate Bartlett, a South African journalist, and Sean Jacobs, a professor specializing in international affairs. They delve into the controversial claims of 'white genocide' in South Africa, criticizing the political motives behind such narratives, especially during Trump's era. The conversation touches on the challenges of racial identity, the socio-economic issues faced by Black South Africans, and the implications of privilege. They also explore the complexities of refugee policies and the similarities between South African and American racial dynamics.

8 snips
Jun 2, 2025 • 19min
Canada hates us, but it's not all Trump's fault.
In a lively conversation, Scaachi Koul, a Senior Writer at Slate, dives into the complex feelings Canadians harbor about their American neighbors. She uncovers the historical roots of growing Canadian discontent, linking it to political shifts and cultural clashes. Surprisingly, while over 80% of Americans view Canada positively, only 24% of Canadians feel the same way about the U.S. Koul discusses how this mismatch affects consumer behavior and national identity, wrapping up with some light-hearted trivia about iconic Canadian cultural figures.

May 30, 2025 • 16min
Age gaps & wage gaps: unpacking our Belichick-Hudson obsession
Shar Jossell, an arts and entertainment reporter, joins Brittany to dissect the public intrigue surrounding Bill Belichick and his much younger girlfriend, Jordon Hudson. They explore societal perceptions of significant age gaps in relationships and the power dynamics at play. The conversation dives into the 'trad wife' trend and the complexities of modern femininity. Jossell also addresses the double standards in societal judgments regarding wealth and age, revealing how these factors shape our understanding of love and partnership.

13 snips
May 28, 2025 • 23min
Can doctors test embryos for autism? And should they?
In this engaging discussion, Vardit Ravitsky, a bioethicist at Harvard Medical School, and Katie Hasson of the Center for Genetics and Society, dissect the complex world of polygenic embryo screening. They delve into the ethical dilemmas surrounding the genetic selection of embryos for conditions like autism. The conversation highlights societal pressures, stigma, and ableism, revealing how these factors intertwine with parental choices. The duo also critiques the potential normalization of such practices and the implications for social inequality.

17 snips
May 26, 2025 • 20min
Brittany needs a couch. Should she buy now, pay later?
Malcolm Harris, author of the insightful book 'Palo Alto,' explores the implications of Buy Now, Pay Later (BNPL) services. He dives into why these loans have surged in popularity among young consumers, emphasizing their accessibility and hidden risks. The conversation reveals how easy credit can lead to debt traps and discusses the cultural shifts in attitudes toward purchasing and financial management. Harris also addresses the evolving landscape of consumer credit and the historical context of lifestyle subsidies in our tech-driven world.