Taylor Lorenz’s Power User

Aidan Walker, a meme researcher and author of "How to Do Things With Memes," challenges the narrative that logging off social media is the solution to its ills. He argues that the internet, despite its flaws, is a vital arena for collective empowerment and activism. Discussing the role of platforms like TikTok in shaping social movements like Black Lives Matter, Walker emphasizes the need for grassroots engagement. He warns that those in power prefer a disconnected public, and advocates for active participation in digital spaces to drive meaningful change.

Becca Branum, Deputy Director of the Center for Democracy and Technology's Free Expression Project, tackles the controversial Take It Down Act. She explains how the law, intended to combat revenge p**n, could actually threaten free speech by allowing anyone to remove unwanted content online without verification. The discussion highlights the law's flaws, its potential to silence marginalized voices, and the chilling effects it could have on online expression. Branum warns against the dangers of censorship disguised as protection.

In this engaging discussion, journalist Kat Tenbarge, formerly of NBC News, dives into the rising dependency on ChatGPT among students. She addresses the fears surrounding critical thinking and academic integrity in a tech-driven world. Kat critiques the education system's pressures, emphasizing how competition for grades can stifle genuine learning. She calls for a reimagined educational landscape that embraces technology with empathy, advocating for a balanced approach that empowers student agency in their learning.

Jennifer Pinsof, Senior Staff Attorney at the Electronic Frontier Foundation, dives into the chilling implications of Texas's proposed HB 5510, which seeks to criminalize online discussions about abortion. She explains how this law could severely restrict access to crucial reproductive health information and create a culture of fear among those sharing knowledge. Jennifer also discusses the broader implications for free speech and digital rights, highlighting the risks of increased censorship and the urgent need for advocacy to protect online discourse.

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.