Power User with Taylor Lorenz

Alec Karakatsanis, an award-winning civil rights lawyer and author of 'Copaganda: How Police and the Media Manipulate Our News,' dives into the pervasive influence of pro-police narratives in media. He discusses the distinction between media's focus on minor crimes like shoplifting versus significant issues like wage theft. Alec reveals how fear-driven narratives contribute to mass incarceration and authoritarian policies. He also highlights propaganda tactics that distort the public's understanding of safety and justice, urging a critical engagement with media narratives.

Jason Koebler, co-founder of 404 Media, delves into the unsettling use of AI by police to create realistic online personas for spying on activists and protesters. He reveals how these covert methods are escalating amid recent student protests and talks about the ethical dilemmas they present. Koebler discusses the implications for civil liberties, the normalization of such surveillance, and offers insights on recognizing these bots in online spaces. A call to action highlights the urgent need for advocacy against these invasive practices.

EJ Dickson, a Senior writer at New York Magazine's The Cut, dives into the vibrant world of tween podcasters, revealing how kids aged 8 to 13 are transforming media from their bedrooms. They explore the impressive rise of youth-led shows like the MD Foodie Boys and SaltyBoys, discussing their unique takes on topics like school lunches and celebrity interviews. The conversation highlights the technological accessibility fueling this trend and the balance between authenticity and influence, showing how these young voices are reshaping content creation for future generations.

Miranda Green, an investigative journalist specializing in media misinformation, exposes the alarming rise of fake newspapers funded by the oil and gas industry. She discusses their deceptive strategies, which mimic legitimate outlets to manipulate public opinion, especially regarding clean energy. Green highlights how these publications can sway jury decisions and distort political narratives. Delving into corporate influence over journalism, she uncovers the challenges in maintaining journalistic integrity amidst rampant misinformation, emphasizing the real dangers posed to democracy.

Drew Harwell, a former Washington Post colleague, unpacks the radical social media strategies of the Trump White House. He discusses how the administration transformed its digital team into a rapid-response influencer operation, contrasting it with the more traditional approaches of the past. The conversation dives into the challenges facing the Democratic Party online and the intense rivalries within the MAGA influencer community. Harwell also compares Trump’s provocative tactics with Obama's more measured celebrity engagement style, highlighting the evolution of political communication in the digital age.

In this engaging discussion, Matt Bernstein, a cultural analyst and host of "A Bit Fruity," dives into the viral morning routine of Ashton Hall and its implications on modern masculinity. They explore the evolution of male wellness culture, critiquing the absurd standards set by influencers and the rise of hyper-masculinity. Bernstein emphasizes the disconnect between aesthetics and true well-being, calling for a reassessment of societal expectations. Together, they unpack the complex dynamics of masculinity, highlighting the necessity for community and authenticity.

Miles Klee, a journalist focused on Tesla and Elon Musk's influence on politics, discusses the recent troubles plaguing Tesla. With stock prices tumbling and protests erupting, Klee examines how Musk's political entanglements could be detrimental to the company's future. He delves into the backlash against Tesla's labor practices, rising competition from affordable alternatives, and concerns over its controversial self-driving technology. Ultimately, the conversation reveals how Musk's ambitious ventures are now facing significant public scrutiny.

Mike Masnick, founder of TechDirt and a leading voice on free speech and internet policy, joins to discuss Brendan Carr's alarming influence as an FCC chair. They dive into how Carr's intimidation tactics affect journalists and media outlets, reshaping America's free speech landscape. Masnick highlights the hypocrisy of Carr's 'free speech warrior' narrative while threatening dissent through government power. The conversation navigates the complex relationship between social media censorship, regulation, and the critical need to safeguard expression in a polarized environment.

David Enrich, a seasoned journalist at the New York Times and author of "Murder the Truth," dives into the threats facing America's free press. He discusses the landmark Supreme Court case New York Times v. Sullivan and its implications for media freedom. Enrich highlights a coordinated right-wing campaign to undermine this legal protection, sharing insights on wealthy individuals' influence on press freedom and the struggles independent journalists face today. This conversation raises critical questions about the future of dissenting voices in democracy.

Join Ophie Dokie, a content creator known for coining 'misogyny slop,' as she uncovers the dark side of online content targeting women. She highlights how a sprawling ecosystem of creators fuels smear campaigns and funnels women into far-right narratives. From body language analysis to the sensationalism of celebrity culture, Dokie reveals the algorithmic forces at play and urges listeners to scrutinize their media consumption. This timely discussion sheds light on the toxic intersection of misogyny and misinformation.