Taylor Lorenz’s Power User

Kat Tenbarge, a sharp journalist focused on internet culture and politics, joins to unpack the scandal surrounding Olivia Nuzzi, a rising star at New York Magazine. They dive into Nuzzi's controversial affair with RFK Jr. and the ensuing media frenzy, including the release of private texts by her ex-fiancé, Ryan Lizza. The discussion highlights the gendered backlash against Nuzzi and critiques of journalistic ethics in the coverage. Kat and Taylor explore the complexities of access journalism and the implications of the attention economy on personal lives.

Kate Ruane, Director at the Center for Democracy and Technology, joins to discuss the implications of recent online child-safety bills she recently testified against. She highlights how proposed laws could silence marginalized voices and impose harmful surveillance mechanisms. Kate critiques the Kids Online Safety Act for its potential to censor LGBTQ content and worsen privacy issues. They also discuss the perils of identity verification and how bans drive kids to unsafe online spaces, all while raising alarms about the chilling effects on free expression.

Twitch streamer Sean DeBlack, known for his insights into online culture, joins to discuss the controversial rise of 'Dark Woke'. He explores how traditional leftist values have been overshadowed by aggressive rhetoric and online slurs. The conversation touches on the commodification of woke culture and the backlash against it post-2020, including the influence of TikTok on youth activism. Sean also critiques the Democratic establishment's aesthetic pursuits rather than effective policies, highlighting the need for solidarity and re-centering marginalized voices.

Arun Annow, an independent journalist and live streamer, dives into the ongoing persecution of the Eelam Tamil people in Sri Lanka. He discusses the government's oppressive online safety laws that mask censorship as a means to silence dissent. Arun recounts the harsh consequences for journalists and the alarming use of social media for organizing protests. He warns that Sri Lanka's tactics could inspire similar laws in the U.S., urging listeners to stay informed about the implications of such measures on free speech and press freedom.

Charlie Warzel, a technology writer at The Atlantic, dives into the chaos sparked by Twitter's new 'About This Account' feature. He reveals how many pro-MAGA accounts are actually operating from countries like India and Nigeria, raising questions about authenticity. The conversation explores the impact of inauthentic accounts on political narratives and the broader erosion of trust in media. Warzel also discusses potential futures for the web and whether this could be a turning point in the landscape of social media.

Discover how Zohran Mamdani captivated young voters with an innovative digital strategy that eschewed traditional tactics. Hear from the minds behind Creators for Zohran, exploring their organic approach to influencer partnerships and effective messaging. The discussion highlights the importance of creator-style content in mobilizing audiences in today's fractured online landscape. Tune in for insights on engaging the youth through authentic connections and community-driven campaigns.

Former Obama speechwriter Sarah Hurwitz sparks controversy with her remarks on Gaza and Holocaust imagery, highlighting the elite's chilling desire to control online narratives. The podcast dives into the origins of social media as a platform for liberation against the establishment. It discusses the shift towards censorship post-2016 and the alarming bipartisan push for speech restrictions following recent events. There's a passionate plea to protect Section 230 and advocate for meaningful tech regulation to safeguard online freedoms.

Brace Belden, co-host of the TrueAnon podcast and expert on the Jeffrey Epstein saga, dives into the chaos surrounding the recent release of Epstein-related emails. He discusses the impact of these revelations on MAGA influencers and the political landscape, especially relating to Trump. Topics include the intertwining of Trump’s behavior with Epstein’s network, the division among influencers, and how this scandal may reshape narratives within the MAGA movement. Brace also touches on Epstein's evolving ties across party lines and the international implications of the newly uncovered information.

Dive into the shocking intersection of college football and government surveillance. Uncover how the Department of Homeland Security deployed a monitoring system at games, feeding data into facial recognition tech. Learn about historical examples of mass surveillance at major events and the chilling impact on public expression. With alarming insights into privacy violations and biometric normalization, discover calls for action against these invasive practices. The future of fan engagement may hinge on keeping surveillance at bay!

Kat Tenbarge, an online culture journalist and author of Spitfire News, joins to discuss Sydney Sweeney's tumultuous rise as a cultural symbol. They explore how Sweeney's career skyrocketed from roles in 'Euphoria' to facing backlash over controversial moments, including her political branding and a polarizing GQ interview. Their conversation shifts to the impact of online misogyny, the role of tech billionaires in escalating her controversies, and the implications of her recent box office flop. Can Sweeney navigate these challenges for a successful future?