It's Been a Minute
NPR
Want in on a secret? Your likes and dislikes didn't develop by accident. There are subtle and not-so-subtle forces around you, shaping what you think, how you act, and even who you think you are. Brittany Luse is here to break the spell and help you feel wiser in a society that makes things blurry.THE BEST POP CULTURE PODCAST AWARD WINNER AT THE 2025 SIGNAL AWARDSIt’s Been A Minute with Brittany Luse is the best podcast for understanding what’s going on in culture right now, and helps you consume it smarter. From how politics influences pop culture to how identity influences tech or health, Brittany makes the picture clearer for you every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.It’s Been A Minute reaches millions of people every week. Join the community and conversation today.If you can't get enough, try It's Been a Minute Plus. Your subscription supports the show and unlocks a sponsor-free feed. Learn more at plus.npr.org/itsbeenaminute
Episodes
Mentioned books
Sep 24, 2024 • 32min
The SMACKDOWN: Serena Williams vs. Muhammad Ali vs. Trina
Who will win today's cage match?Welcome to The Smackdown! For the next several weeks Brittany is hosting debates in cities and regions across the United States to find out who and what are the most influential things from those places. This episode Brittany lands in Miami, Florida, and debates with WLRN reporter Wilkine Brutus and The Miami Herald's C. Isaiah Smalls II. There will be winners. There will be losers. There will be surprises.This discussion features excerpts from the NPR Music's Louder Than A Riot. Hear more from Sidney Madden's interview with Trina here.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy
Sep 20, 2024 • 37min
Is Diddy hip-hop's Weinstein? Plus, Brittany gets rejected
On Monday, the embattled rap mogul Sean 'Diddy' Combs was arrested and charged with sex trafficking and racketeering. He's been denied bail twice, and is facing a sentence of 15 years to life in prison. Host Brittany Luse is joined by NPR Music editor Sidney Madden and legal affairs reporter Meghann Cuniff to understand what this indictment means for Combs and if this could be the beginning of a #MeToo movement in hip-hop.Then, Brittany is joined by Tony Tulathimutte, author of Rejection, to talk about a rising culture around rejection, his book and why online life can enable rejections to curdle inside us.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy
Sep 17, 2024 • 32min
The SMACKDOWN: Brunch vs. Twerking vs. Louis Armstrong
Who will win today's cage match?Welcome to The Smackdown! For the next several weeks Brittany is hosting debates in cities and regions across the United States to find out who and what are the most influential things from those places. This episode Brittany lands in New Orleans, Louisiana, and debates with Gulf States Newsroom health equity reporter Drew Hawkins and writer & editor Ko Bragg. There will be winners. There will be losers. There will be surprises.To manage podcast ad preferences, review the links below:See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for sponsorship and to manage your podcast sponsorship preferences.NPR Privacy Policy
Sep 13, 2024 • 40min
Trump goes podcasting and Harris turns a look
Luke Winkie is a staff writer at Slate, known for his cultural commentary, and Kat Tenbarge is a tech and culture reporter for NBC News. Together, they explore how political candidates, including Kamala Harris, are shaping their images through fashion and social media. The influence of celebrity endorsements, like Taylor Swift's, on voter perception is dissected, highlighting the power of influencers in modern politics. They discuss the strategic use of podcasts by political figures to engage younger voters and question the implications of this trend.
Sep 10, 2024 • 31min
The SMACKDOWN: Gucci Mane vs. Angela Davis vs. Sun Ra
Joseph King, a sports and culture reporter, and Cody Short, a culture reporter, dive into a lively debate on Birmingham's cultural heavyweights like Gucci Mane and Angela Davis. They unpack the profound impacts of hip hop and the civil rights movement, while also shedding light on the lesser-known inventor Mary Anderson. The conversation takes a cosmic turn as they explore Sun Ra’s influence on Afrofuturism. Tune in for an engaging blend of history, culture, and a celebration of Birmingham's vibrant community.
Sep 6, 2024 • 40min
Gen Z asks: what is school for? Plus, rebranding gentrification
Karin Klein, an education reporter and author focused on alternative paths to success, discusses Gen Z's disillusionment with traditional education. They explore how the pandemic and AI influence have led students to question the purpose of high school. Klein advocates for schools to adapt to new career pathways beyond college. Later, Richard E. Ocejo, author of "Sixty Miles Upriver," joins to discuss the rebranding of gentrification in small cities, revealing the socio-economic impacts on long-term residents amidst the influx of newcomers.
Sep 3, 2024 • 30min
The SMACKDOWN: Video Games vs. Journalism vs. Robert Frost
Hannah McCarthy and Nick Capodice, both reporters from New Hampshire Public Radio, engage in a lively debate about the cultural influences of Concord, New Hampshire. They trace the evolution of video games from arcades to personal consoles. The discussion highlights significant artifacts like the Abbott and Downing stagecoach, while emphasizing the roles of Horace Greeley in journalism and Robert Frost in literature. The hosts also touch on the literary contributions of Harriet E. Wilson, celebrating overlooked figures in American storytelling.
Aug 30, 2024 • 47min
Chappell Roan and celebrity hazing; plus, MrBeast's entertainment charity
Kelsey McKinney, a writer from Defector, and Dr. Mel Stanfill, author of *Fandom is Ugly*, dive into the complexities of celebrity culture and the intense scrutiny pop stars face, particularly concerning gender dynamics. They discuss Chappell Roan's experiences with obsessive fans and the misunderstandings surrounding celebrity status. The conversation shifts to MrBeast, the YouTube sensation, exploring his viral charity videos and how they redefine philanthropy amid a perceived 'generosity crisis' in traditional charitable giving.
Aug 28, 2024 • 15min
The rise of the Pumpkin Spice Latte
Suzy Badaracco, a food trend forecaster and founder of Culinary Tides, dives into the remarkable journey of the Pumpkin Spice Latte, which has captivated taste buds for 21 years. The discussion reveals how this beloved drink symbolizes nostalgia, femininity, and broader cultural themes. They explore the $500 million pumpkin spice industry and its ties to identity and seasonal enjoyment. Badaracco even draws fascinating parallels between culinary trends and crime scene investigations, highlighting the hidden depths of what we consume.
Aug 23, 2024 • 35min
"The Squad" loses two members; plus, Colman Domingo shines in 'SING SING'
Join POLITICO Congress reporter Sarah Ferris and Capital B News' Brandon Tensley as they break down the struggles of 'The Squad' in Congress after recent electoral defeats, exploring the significant influence of pro-Israel PACs on progressive candidates. They also dive into the Democratic Party's internal divisions and the implications for future politics. Later, actor Colman Domingo shares insights on his film 'SING SING,' which highlights the transformative power of theater for incarcerated individuals, touching on themes of masculinity and community.
