History

Jun
21

The Popularity Paradox: Why Do We Hate Pop Culture?

Justin on June 21st, 2010

I don’t know anybody who loves pop radio. I know people who listen to it ironically, as though they’re not comfortable admitting they don’t entirely hate Lady Gaga.  And I know people who admit to liking just Lady Gaga, or just Usher, but still insist they “hate the radio.” But why do we (claim to) [...]

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Jun
7

The Secret to Media Success: Making the Audience Care

Justin on June 7th, 2010

I just finished the first book I’ve devoured in more than a decade. Mark Harris’s Pictures at a Revolution details the making of the 5 Best Picture nominees at the 1968 Academy Awards, from their initial concepts through their critical and public reception.  Two of those films, In the Heat of the Night and Guess [...]

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Feb
8

What Are You So Afraid Of?

Justin on February 8th, 2010

As you may have heard, the Mid-Atlantic US (in which I currently live) got hammered by a massive snowstorm this weekend.  Weather reports had been sensationalizing the potentially apocalyptic effects of the storm for days, warning that we could see a record snowfall and complete paralysis of city functions.  And if you doubt that people [...]

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Jan
29

We’re All Trolls: 11 Ways We Can Stop Being So Damn Divisive!

Justin on January 29th, 2010

Lately, I’ve been arguing against the perpetual “us vs. them” method of storytelling because I think it’s ruining our ability (and desire) to understand each other.  Opposing groups have always been quick to condemn “the other,” but the degree to (and zest with) which we do it these days borders on alarming. A few days [...]

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Jan
20

How to Break Up with the Newspaper Industry

Justin on January 20th, 2010

Let’s be honest: it isn’t working out.  In fact, it hasn’t been working out for almost 20 years now.  And let’s not point fingers because we’re both to blame. Don’t Cry, Your Newsprint Will Get All Blotchy. In a healthy relationship, both parties respect and appreciate one another.  They know neither side is perfect, but [...]

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