Taylor Lorenz’s Power User

Discover the shocking truth about how data brokers harvest and exploit your personal information. From tracking your location to analyzing your habits, the podcast reveals the sneaky methods companies use to build comprehensive profiles. It explores the risks of everyday technology and highlights how these practices can even lead to inflated insurance costs. Listeners will learn practical steps to protect their privacy and the importance of advocating for better data protection laws.

Join John Kilo, a 28-year-old OnlyFans creator and viral sensation from Portland, known for his provocative artistry and political parodies. He dives into the wild world of Skibidi Toilet porn, discussing how virality reshapes OnlyFans and the power of meme culture. Kilo shares his evolution from strip clubs to online fame, blending comedy and adult content. He also explores the pressures of constant content creation and his ambitions to transition into deeper cinematic storytelling, all while challenging societal norms and embracing the absurd.

Albert Fox Cahn, founder of the Surveillance Technology Oversight Project (S.T.O.P.), dives deep into the alarming rise of facial recognition technology in everyday life. He sheds light on how landlords are using these systems to surveil tenants, raising serious privacy concerns. Cahn also discusses the implications of child safety laws that exacerbate surveillance and the need for public advocacy. The conversation emphasizes building tech that prioritizes people over profit and questions the balance between security and civil liberties.

Jaisen Freeman, CEO and co-founder of Four Loko, shares the wild journey of one of America's most iconic beverages. He reveals how the drink's unique blend of alcohol and caffeine skyrocketed to fame through early internet culture marketing. Jaisen discusses the brand's encounters with government crackdowns and public backlash, and how they turned controversy into a thriving business. He also explores Four Loko's evolution to stay relevant with Gen Z, maintaining its authenticity while innovating for the future.

YouTube's new automatic age verification system requires users to submit government IDs or biometric scans, igniting privacy concerns. This controversial move sets a worrying precedent for invasive identity checks in online spaces. There's a strong focus on how this policy could restrict access to vital educational and controversial content, particularly for young users and marginalized communities. The discussion warns of a future where anonymity is eroded, impacting informed citizenship and freedom of expression.

In this engaging discussion, music critic Anthony Fantano offers his insights into the disappearance of the 'song of the summer' in 2023. He explores how the rise of social media and personalization has transformed music consumption, leading to a fragmented musical landscape. Fantano traces the history of summer anthems and examines why this year lacks a unifying track. The conversation delves into the challenges posed by streaming services and cultural shifts that may hinder artists from creating resonant summer hits.

In this engaging discussion, journalist Kat Tenbarge, who investigates misogyny and the internet, dives into Lil Tay's explosive launch of her OnlyFans account shortly after turning 18. She unpacks the backlash from both sides of the political spectrum, revealing how the uproar is weaponized to silence free speech and threaten civil liberties. Kat also critiques the exploitation of young female influencers, the hypocrisy surrounding their choices, and the consequences of new legislation on marginalized communities, particularly in the discussion on online censorship.

Adam Aleksic, an etymologist and author of Algospeak, explores the fascinating ways AI, especially ChatGPT, is reshaping our language and communication. He highlights research showing a 'feedback loop' where AI influences our speech patterns. Aleksic discusses the rise of 'avoidance speech' and the trend of 'slop communication,' prompting a quest for authenticity in expression. The conversation dives into the balance between technological aid and personal creativity, emphasizing the ethical dilemmas in language shaped by AI.

The UK's Online Safety Act has sparked controversy, leading to significant censorship of websites, forums, and journalism. While intended to protect children, it inadvertently blocks access to vital news and health information, labeling it as harmful. The discussion highlights serious implications for free speech and privacy, especially with age verification requirements that could pave the way for similar legislation in other countries. The hosts urge listeners to consider the consequences and take action to protect their online rights.

Chiara Eisner, an investigative reporter at NPR, dives into the critical role of the internet in public health communication. She discusses how the CDC's drastic shifts in communication strategy, particularly under political changes, have led to a blackout on vital information. The conversation highlights the chaos within the agency, including confusion among employees and the consequences for public health during crises. Eisner emphasizes the need for credible journalism in these challenging times, advocating for transparency amidst declining institutional support.