ICYMI

On today’s episode, host Kate Lindsay is joined by Slate senior writer Ben Mathis-Lilley to say goodbye after eleven years at Slate. Ben was responsible for iconic stories like “Wouldn’t It Be Nice to Get Knocked Out Cold With a Shovel for Exactly Six Weeks and Five Days?”, and is known as the “funniest person in Slack” despite spending his days reporting on our terrifying political climate. How does Ben stay sane and positive online when the internet is engulfed with bad news? One thing’s for certain: It’s not in his University of Michigan football Discord.  Get more of ICYMI with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of ICYMI and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the ICYMI show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/icymiplus for access wherever you listen. This podcast is produced by Daisy Rosario, Vic Whitley-Berry, Candice Lim, and Kate Lindsay. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On today’s episode, hosts Candice Lim and Kate Lindsay are joined by writer Virgie Tovar, whose latest podcast, GLP-1 Truth Serum, explores the predatory nature of GLP-1 marketing, and companies’ attempts to target plus-size creators. But #BodyPositivity was getting backlash long before these new weight loss drugs became trendy, and now social media has gone from a safe space to a minefield. Is #BodyPositivity really gone for good?  Get more of ICYMI with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of ICYMI and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the ICYMI show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/icymiplus for access wherever you listen. This podcast is produced by Daisy Rosario, Vic Whitley-Berry, Candice Lim, and Kate Lindsay. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The podcast delves into the evolving relationship between Saturday Night Live and internet comedians. It examines how platforms like TikTok are reshaping comic styles and influencing SNL's new cast members. Discussions reveal the challenges these comedians face while adapting to traditional sketch formats. The hosts humorously navigate conversations around scams related to podcasting, all while assessing the comedic landscape's transformation in the digital age. Can SNL thrive without the internet's fresh talent, or is it the other way around?

Kat Tenbarge, an Internet culture reporter and Spitfire News writer, dives into the Gaylor fandom's tumultuous reaction to Taylor Swift's engagement. She defends the Gaylors, who believe in Swift's secret queer identity, and explores how this fanbase often becomes the punchline. The conversation unpacks the complex dynamics within the fandom, from theories surrounding Swift's sexuality to the challenges faced by marginalized voices. Tenbarge highlights the emotional impact of celebrity culture and the significance of LGBTQ representation in Swift's work.

The hosts discuss the backlash over a controversial job listing for a podcast role that offers a mere $55,000 salary without benefits. TikTok erupts with debate about the privilege required to accept such a position in New York City. They delve into the struggles of hustle culture, reflecting on the implications for early-career professionals. Amid fashion trends and community reactions, the conversation highlights the necessity for better compensation and workplace conditions in the media landscape. Accountability among content creators is a key theme.

Join Slate staff writer Luke Winkie, who explores Gavin Newsom's bold social media strategy in a humorous light. They dive into how Newsom is adopting shitposting tactics similar to Donald Trump to ridicule rivals and engage younger voters. The conversation touches on the implications of this approach for his potential 2028 run, the generational gap in political perceptions, and the reactions—both supportive and critical—from conservatives. Can humor transform political discourse? Winkie offers insightful takes on this evolving landscape.

Recent BookTok conventions have sparked chaos and controversy. One event earned the infamous title of the "Fyre Fest" of BookTok, while another faced serious allegations of misconduct. The discussions reveal the tensions between bringing a fandom together and the pitfalls that emerge. They ponder if social media plays a role in these challenges. With humor and honesty, the hosts highlight the emotional toll these poorly organized gatherings have taken on authors and fans alike.

Candice Lim and Kate Lindsay get into the war between em dashes and artificial intelligence. Back in 2024, what started as a developer question became an all-out grammar war, with the use of em dashes becoming a possible indicator that something was written using ChatGPT. In the past week alone, several writers have published their defenses of the em dash and how we shouldn’t let ChatGPT ruin our favorite keyboard shortcut. However, the em dash may be a symptom of a bigger issue: have our AI detection skills gotten worse? Or, are we all doomed to be tricked by a hyphen or two? Get more of ICYMI with Slate Plus! Join for exclusive bonus episodes of ICYMI and ad-free listening on all your favorite Slate podcasts. Subscribe from the ICYMI show page on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Or, visit slate.com/icymiplus for access wherever you listen. This podcast is produced by Vic Whitley-Berry, Daisy Rosario, Candice Lim, and Kate Lindsay. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The hosts dive into the intriguing feud between Ethel Cain and Lana Del Rey, revealing how Peter Griffin fits into their drama. A delightful TikTok sensation is highlighted, dressing as the Lorax and impressively channeling Ariana Grande. Fans might soon welcome back their favorite TikTok dolls, adding excitement to the platform. The discussion also touches on the whirlwind of online celebrity dynamics and the whimsical creativity of TikTok that brings characters to life with a humorous twist.

Scaachi Koul, a senior writer at Slate and host of Scanfluencers, joins for a lively discussion on the revival of the 'girlboss' narrative. They delve into the controversial comebacks of figures like Audrey Gelman and Ty Haney, questioning the viability of their new projects. The conversation challenges the commercialization of feminism and examines the societal pressures young female entrepreneurs face today. They also reflect on redemption arcs for public figures and the shifting dynamics of female leadership in a post-girlboss world.