It's Been a Minute
NPR
Want in on a secret? Your likes and dislikes didn't develop by accident. There are subtle and not-so-subtle forces around you, shaping what you think, how you act, and even who you think you are. Brittany Luse is here to break the spell and help you feel wiser in a society that makes things blurry.THE BEST POP CULTURE PODCAST AWARD WINNER AT THE 2025 SIGNAL AWARDSIt’s Been A Minute with Brittany Luse is the best podcast for understanding what’s going on in culture right now, and helps you consume it smarter. From how politics influences pop culture to how identity influences tech or health, Brittany makes the picture clearer for you every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.It’s Been A Minute reaches millions of people every week. Join the community and conversation today.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
9 snips
May 21, 2025 • 18min
Pop culture has a "bean soup problem."
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.
11 snips
May 19, 2025 • 17min
Get rich or die trying: how sports betting is changing our love of the game
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.
May 16, 2025 • 16min
Diddy, Cassie, & the anatomy of "mutual abuse"
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.
25 snips
May 14, 2025 • 13min
A tale of murder, artificial intelligence, & forgiveness
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.
6 snips
May 12, 2025 • 18min
Can OnlyFans save the music industry?
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.
14 snips
May 9, 2025 • 19min
The political power of Gen Z women
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.
8 snips
May 7, 2025 • 20min
The fantasy vs. reality of Trump's "smokestack nostalgia"
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.
May 6, 2025 • 20min
The Met Gala: the indisputable best & worst looks of the night
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.
May 5, 2025 • 17min
The Met Gala is tonight, and it's already historic. Here's why.
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.
May 2, 2025 • 19min
Are you pope-pilled? Here's your guide to the 2025 Conclave.
Join Jason DeRose, NPR's Religion Correspondent based in Rome, as he delves into the fascinating realm of the Catholic Church's future following Pope Francis' passing. The conversation unveils insights into how the Conclave works and the buzz around potential candidates, including the excitement for a Filipino pope. They also explore Pope Francis' legacy and the significance of humility in leadership. Packed with engaging trivia, this dialogue offers a lively blend of culture and faith that resonates beyond the Vatican walls.
