It's Been a Minute The best & worst of culture in 2026...so far
Apr 3, 2026
Matthew Lawson, co-host and cultural analyst from Eating for Free, and Joan Summers, Paper Magazine editor and co-founder of Eating for Free, join to grade Q1 2026. They debate surprising hits and flops. They praise joyful drag and Bad Bunny’s big moments. They unpack fandom harms, AI fatigue, and long-standing pop culture distractions. They call for more low-budget, dance-forward joy.
AI Snips
Chapters
Transcript
Episode notes
Reality TV Adapts To Influencer Era
- Vanderpump Rules reboot proved reality TV can evolve by showing influencers' behind-the-scenes lives rather than staged acting.
- Joan and Matthew note stars shifted from actors to vertical-video performers and OnlyFans creators, reflecting influencer-era mainstreaming.
Cultural Reckoning After The First Phase Of Wokeness
- 'Woke' sensibilities feel resurgent as audiences demand accountability from media and institutions.
- Matthew argues people are practicing a new phase of cultural engagement after learning from previous years' excesses.
Luscious Massacre's Rise From TJ Maxx Videos
- Joan highlights Luscious Massacre's rise from Brownsville mall runways and TJ Maxx videos to mainstream acclaim.
- She describes binge-watching the creator for comfort during hospitalization and celebrating her Hollywood breakthrough.