Culture Study Podcast

Sophie Bishop, an associate professor and expert on influencer culture, discusses the pervasive impact of influencers on everyday life. She introduces her term 'influencer creep' and examines how influencer norms influence our online behaviors, from profile crafting to social media posts. The conversation dives into visibility anxiety, the evolution of authenticity in self-presentation, and the pressure on creators to conform to influencer expectations. Sophie also reflects on the commodification of personal experiences and the challenges of navigating publicness in a digital world.

Elliot Haspel, a child and family policy expert and author of "Raising a Nation," joins the conversation to explore the concept of a family-friendly society. They discuss the historical impacts of the 1971 childcare veto and how it shaped current policies. The dialogue delves into recognizing care as a universal right while emphasizing the importance of inclusive policies for all family structures. Haspel advocates for intergenerational spaces and flexible work models that prioritize diverse family needs, benefiting not just parents but the broader community.

Struggling with modern dating? This discussion dives into why it feels so complicated. From the challenges of optimization culture to the loss of traditional dating venues, the hosts break down the dating conundrum. They explore the differences in experiences across genders, debate what's defined as pickiness, and share strategies for navigating dating apps. Plus, intriguing insights on the importance of face-to-face interactions bring a refreshing perspective. Get ready to rethink your approach to finding love!

Join Doree Shafrir, co-host of Forever35 and tennis enthusiast, along with journalist Elise Hu, as they dive into the world of hobbies. Doree shares her journey in tennis, even competing at the national level, while Elise discusses how hosting community events can become a fulfilling pastime. They tackle tough questions about finding time for hobbies amidst busy lives and offer practical tips to avoid the pitfall of excessive gear. Their insights remind us that hobbies should be joy-driven, not another chore!

In this playful bonus episode, the hosts create quirky categories to reflect on the past year. They discuss their favorite Internet dog and the TikTok videos that brought them to tears. Listeners are invited to join the fun and submit their own categories. A standout moment features a book recommendation that the hosts want everyone to read. It’s all about lighthearted banter and delightful surprises, perfect for those seeking a whimsical break from the usual end-of-year lists.

Ifeoma Ozoma, an advocate and eldest-daughter commentator with a background in tech policy, dives into the complexities of being an eldest daughter. She and the host explore how familial roles shape identity, especially within immigrant families. They tackle themes like parentification, the pressures of managing expectations, and the impact of societal norms on eldest daughters. Ifeoma also shares her journey in founding Niños and Neighbors, a local political action committee focused on family issues, emphasizing the importance of setting boundaries for future generations.

Amy Choi, writer and co-founder of The Mashup Americans, dives into the vibrant world of Korean pop culture. She explains the cultural phenomenon of 'Big Korean Energy' and its recent explosion in the West. The conversation touches on Korean literature’s rise in American book clubs, the nuances of K-beauty, and the careful political undertones of the Hallyu wave. They also navigate the complexities of cultural appropriation in fandom, arguing that dressing as K-pop characters isn’t equivalent to yellowface, emphasizing the importance of understanding diverse perspectives.

Join journalist Ryan Goldberg, an expert on urban nature and author of Bird City, as he dives into the enchanting world of birding. He shares the story of his 'spark bird' that ignited his passion and discusses the surprising diversity of birds in cities like New York. Delve into how birding surged during the pandemic and the rise of inclusive, youth-driven birding clubs. Ryan also explores how technology, like the Merlin app, is reshaping the birding experience while emphasizing its role in enhancing mindfulness and community connections.

Jen Hewett, a printmaker and textile artist, shares her journey navigating the creative business world. She dives into the realities of running a small business, discussing the importance of sustainability and avoiding burnout. Jen comments on the challenges of balancing creativity with business strategies, like hiring help to reclaim artistic time. She also touches on the significance of valuing her expertise and the economic hurdles small owners face. With insights on promoting without social media, Jen emphasizes authenticity over trends in art.

In this enlightening discussion, Sarah Marshall, a talented podcaster and author known for her work on You're Wrong About and The Devil You Know, dives into the roots of moral and cultural panics. She explores the origins of the satanic panic and how media influences perceptions of fear. Sarah expertly distinguishes moral panics from conspiracy theories, linking them to societal changes and backlash against movements like feminism. The conversation also touches on contemporary issues, including fears around trans identities and the impact of screens on parenting.