On the Media
WNYC Studios
On the Media is a weekly show that uses the media as a lens to understand our world. On the Media listeners say the show is an essential companion, helping them survive the firehose of media coming at them 24/7. Hosted by Brooke Gladstone and Micah Loewinger, the show does not do ‘hot takes’, instead offering listeners context, historical parallels, media analysis and often a much appreciated deep exhale. On the Media hosts have an eye on the nuances and details regularly missed by other outlets which helps listeners understand where they should be paying attention (and what they can afford to ignore). Our media diets have untruths woven in, and inconvenient truths left out. These are the bits explored every week at On the Media.
Episodes
Mentioned books
9 snips
Jun 21, 2024 • 31min
The Drip, Drip, Drip of Bad News at The Washington Post
Explore the tumultuous times at The Washington Post, from financial woes to leadership turmoil. Delve into allegations of unethical behavior, corporate espionage, and questionable journalistic practices. Uncover the uncertainties and challenges facing one of America's iconic newspapers.
Jun 14, 2024 • 51min
UK Elections: They’re Not Like Ours! Plus, the Messy Family Behind Paramount
Jonathan Freedland, a Guardian columnist, discusses how US and UK elections influence each other. The podcast explores the British Post Office Scandal, where postal workers were wrongfully prosecuted. The Redstone family's complicated dynamics behind Paramount Global are also explored, shedding light on the media empire's history and internal conflicts.
Jun 12, 2024 • 25min
Is Love is Blind a Toxic Workplace?
Exploring the toxic work environment on the set of 'Love Is Blind' reality TV show, with lawsuits revealing lack of sleep, food, and alleged abuse. Discussion on the need for union protections for reality-TV stars to address mistreatment in the industry. Insights on the allure and impact of reality TV on society, labor practices, legal battles, and efforts towards unionization for contestants.
19 snips
Jun 7, 2024 • 51min
A Former Disinformation Reporter is Running The Onion. Plus, Birds ARE Real.
Former disinformation reporter turned CEO of The Onion, Ben Collins, discusses his transition to running a satirical site. They also delve into the Birds Aren't Real movement, the psychological aspects of conspiracy theories, and the use of stories for psychological warfare in American culture.
Jun 5, 2024 • 18min
Mr. Beast Reigns Supreme on YouTube
Jimmy Donaldson, popularly known as Mr. Beast, has become the most subscribed YouTuber with 271 million followers. His clickbaity game-show style videos and extravagant sets have defined this era of YouTube. The history of YouTube's top spot is filled with rivalry, including Mr. Beast overtaking T-Series, setting a new milestone in online content creation.
5 snips
Jun 1, 2024 • 51min
Trump Found Guilty; The Right-Wing Media Were Prepared For It
Trump's guilty verdict in the hush money trial caught some press off guard, but the right-wing media had prepared for it. Trump strategically uses Truth Social to spread talking points to influencers. The rocky history of Trump Media as the latest memestock is discussed. Award-winning photojournalist Lynsey Addario talks about reporting on conflicts abroad and the accuracy of Alex Garland's film 'Civil War'.
7 snips
May 29, 2024 • 22min
How Tech Journalists Are Fueling the AI Hype Machine
Former tech reporter Sam Harnett discusses how journalists fuel the AI hype, Julia Angwin debunks fantastical AI claims, and Paris Marx reveals how AI leaders manipulate the press to influence regulators and investors.
7 snips
May 24, 2024 • 51min
How Tired Tropes Drive AI Coverage. Plus, is the Vibecession Back or Not?
Economics reporter Jeanna Smialek discusses the 'vibecession' perception versus reality. Economist Gordon Hanson analyzes Biden's tariffs on China. Media hype around AI is debunked, revealing deceptive practices by AI companies and the need for increased scrutiny and regulation.
May 22, 2024 • 23min
Rightwing Media is Obsessed with the Darien Gap
Explore the divisive topic of immigration with differing viewpoints between Republicans and Democrats. Learn about right-wing media's focus on the perilous Darien Gap in Panama, showcasing thousands of migrants crossing monthly. Discover Michael Yahn's involvement in documenting immigration challenges and the biased narratives portrayed by right-wing influencers in the region.
May 17, 2024 • 51min
What Bush v. Gore Revealed About Contested Elections
Host Leon Neyfakh from Fiasco discusses the tumultuous 2000 election between Bush and Gore, focusing on recounts, 'chads,' military ballots, and the intense Brooks Brothers riot. The podcast unravels the chaotic aftermath, including legal maneuvers, protester intimidation, and the Supreme Court's ultimate decision that led to Bush's victory.
