It's Been a Minute

Samer Kalaf, managing editor at Defector, delves into the recent controversy surrounding Ms. Rachel, a popular children's educator and YouTube star, who faced backlash for advocating for Palestinian children's safety. They discuss the larger implications of defending children in conflict zones and the challenges faced by advocates due to misinformation. The conversation highlights the importance of free speech and the need to keep children’s rights in focus amidst geopolitical tensions. A heartfelt exploration of compassion in the realm of children's welfare.

Aisha Harris, pop culture critic and co-host of NPR's Pop Culture Happy Hour, dives deep into the complexities of media literacy. She discusses the varying interpretations of Ryan Coogler's film 'Sinners,' questioning if we are experiencing a media literacy crisis. The conversation explores the 'bean soup problem,' revealing how personal biases shape our understanding of narratives. Aisha also examines how societal contexts influence perceptions of art, emphasizing the challenges posed by social media in grasping complex stories.

Danny Funt, a seasoned journalist from The Washington Post and author diving into the sports betting boom, chats about the seismic shifts in sports culture. He highlights how legalized betting has transformed watching games into a profit-making venture, particularly among young men facing financial pressures. The discussion delves into the misconceptions about betting, the illusion of easy riches, and the cultural implications of celebrity endorsements. Funt also raises concerns about the risks to sports integrity amid this new betting landscape.

In this insightful discussion, author Beverly Gooden, known for her work on trauma and abuse dynamics, unpacks the ongoing legal troubles of Sean 'Diddy' Combs, who faces serious allegations. The conversation highlights the problematic idea of 'mutual abuse' and why it fails to hold in court. Gooden emphasizes the importance of understanding power dynamics in abusive relationships and calls for greater societal awareness to support survivors. The impact of media framing on public perception surrounding celebrity abuse cases is also explored.

Join Brandon Blankenship, an assistant professor and director of the pre-law program at UAB, as he delves into groundbreaking discussions about AI and the legal system. Topics include an AI avatar delivering a victim impact statement from beyond the grave, raising questions about ethics in the courtroom. The conversation also touches on the emotional landscape of grief, digital personas after death, and how technology alters our moral fabric. This thought-provoking dialogue explores the future of justice and forgiveness in a tech-driven world.

Join NPR culture reporter Isabella Gomez Sarmiento as she dives into the surprising rise of OnlyFans among musicians seeking financial stability. With concert ticket prices soaring and rising costs, artists are turning to digital platforms, blurring lines between music and adult content. Isabella reveals the stark economic challenges that threaten the music industry's middle class and discusses how these shifts reflect broader societal views on labor and creativity. It's a thought-provoking look at survival in today’s music landscape.

Rachel Janfaza, founder of the Up and Up Newsletter, and Claire Cain Miller, a New York Times reporter, dive into the growing political engagement of Gen Z women. They explore how societal events have spurred a leftward shift, with 40% identifying as liberal, compared to earlier generations. The duo discusses the evolving dynamics between young men and women, highlighting concerns about political engagement and discussions around women's rights. Their insights reveal a vibrant, youthful solidarity that's set to reshape political landscapes.

Dylan Matthews, a senior correspondent at Vox focusing on economic and public policy, joins the discussion. They dive into the nostalgia surrounding American manufacturing jobs and the complexities of wanting these roles back. The conversation critiques the romanticized view of factory work versus the stark realities faced by modern workers. They also explore the impact of tariffs on job revival and the shifting landscape of skills required in manufacturing today, along with the political ramifications of labor policies.

The 2025 MET Gala showcased jaw-dropping celebrity fashion, with standouts like Teyana Taylor and Rosalia stealing the spotlight. Insights on the significance of Black Dandyism and the influence of queerness in design sparked intriguing discussions. The panel dissected both triumphant looks and notable misses, critiquing the event's themes and representation. They delved into the legacy of Frederick Douglass, tying it back to the cultural importance of the gala. It was a night of fashion highs, lows, and deep conversations.

The Met Gala is back, and this year's theme celebrates the rich history of Black dandyism. Experts discuss how this fashion narrative is rooted in rebellion against norms. The conversation dives into the importance of representation in fashion and critiques celebrity style choices. Listeners will learn about the evolution of Black dandyism and its significance today. Anticipation builds as they explore who might steal the spotlight this year, hinting at a follow-up to dissect the glamorous outcomes of the event.