A Bit Fruity with Matt Bernstein

Moira Donegan, co-host of 'In Bed With The Right,' and Adrian Daub, a fellow co-host, dive into the complexities of current right-wing sexual politics. They dissect Elon Musk's controversial relationship with influencer Ashley St. Clair, questioning women's roles in a patriarchal framework. The discussion further explores evolving standards of masculinity and the contradictions within conservative values. With insights on the impact of influencer culture, they reveal the tensions between traditional expectations and modern expressions of femininity.

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.

In this discussion, Edward Ongweso Jr., a tech journalist, sheds light on the influential tech bro-ligarchy dominating politics today. He explores the disturbing intertwining of technology and power, highlighting how billionaires are shaping societal narratives and exploiting media platforms. The conversation dives into the controversial roots of social media giants, as well as the alarming rise of extremist ideologies among younger audiences. Edward also critiques the extravagant lifestyles of the wealthy, pointing to their apocalyptic escape plans amidst environmental collapse.

Kat Tenbarge, an NBC News journalist specializing in celebrity legal battles, joins to discuss the intense scrutiny female celebrities face, particularly Blake Lively's current legal drama with Justin Baldoni. They delve into how social media amplifies misogynistic narratives, highlighting double standards and the impact of public relations in shaping perceptions. The conversation broadens to the complexities of male advocacy and the shared media narratives surrounding Lively and Amber Heard, emphasizing the need for critical thinking in our online interactions.

In this discussion, Taylor Lorenz, an independent journalist known for her insights on media and culture, addresses the shocking dissonance between public support for UnitedHealthcare CEO assassin Luigi Mangione and the media's negative portrayal. She critiques mainstream media's failures and the subsequent erosion of public trust. Taylor dives into class dynamics, revealing how privilege complicates narratives around violence. She also highlights the critical role of independent journalism in challenging stigma and advocating for working-class voices amid a billionaire-dominated landscape.

Journalists Ryan Mac and Kate Conger discuss their book on Elon Musk's tumultuous journey through social media and politics. They explore his shift from a socially liberal figure to a controversial right-wing icon, unpacking his midlife crisis and its societal costs. The conversation dives into his decision-making patterns shaped by childhood trauma and scrutinizes his relationship with his daughter, Vivian, against the backdrop of evolving gender identity issues. Insights into his surreal public persona and personal relationships add depth to the fascinating narrative.

Dive into the complex world of the musical 'Wicked' as it explores the duality of good and evil through Glinda and Elphaba. The analysis highlights Glinda's moral ambiguity, challenging the idea of performative kindness versus genuine activism. Themes of privilege, societal judgment, and the representation of marginalized groups are examined, offering a fresh lens on contemporary issues. The discussion critiques characters and their choices, prompting reflection on the nature of power and complicity in our own lives.

Taylor Lorenz, an independent journalist known for her sharp insights on internet culture, dives into the troubling trend of male loneliness and the rise of toxic masculinity among young men. She discusses how the manosphere has exploited this loneliness, fueling ideologies connected to incels and figures like Andrew Tate. They critique the influence of conservative media and popular social media influencers, emphasizing the need for greater empathy and diverse progressive voices in media to counter the growing right-wing narrative.

In America, the only thing standing between you and wealth beyond your wildest dreams is tying for fifth with a trans person. Today, media critic Ari Drennen takes us into the bizarre world of the 24-year-old whispering policy into Donald Trump’s ear.Support me + listen to bonus episodes on Patreon!Start managing your money better and cancel unwanted expenses at www.rocketmoney.com/fruity. Follow Ari's Substack.Me on Instagram.A Bit Fruity on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The slogan of YouTube’s most popular debate channel, Jubilee, is “provoke understanding & create human connection.” So why is all of its content a cesspool of bigotry, rage-bait, and pseudoscientific slop? Support me + listen to bonus episodes on Patreon! Huge thanks to the show's sponsors:Get 15% off a cuter, more sustainable way to clean at www.blueland.com/fruity.Get an exclusive 60% on Incogni! https://incogni.com/fruitySubscribe to Big Joel’s YouTube channel!Me on Instagram. A Bit Fruity on Instagram. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices