Culture Junkie

When Tech Buys Culture: Sam Altman, Vanity Fair & the New Status Game What happens when the people who built the internet start buying the institutions that once decided what was culturally important? Vanity Fair putting OpenAI CEO Sam Altman on its cover might look like just another celebrity-tech moment. But Keith and Xandra think there’s something much bigger going on. In this episode of th...

Meta AI’s newest moves raise a bigger question: **Who really controls your online experience — you, or the platforms you use?** In this episode of the **Culture Junkie Podcast**, Keith and Xandra take a closer look at the evolving social media landscape as AI becomes increasingly embedded in the platforms we use every day. From Meta AI and the new **Muse** rollout to Threads, Bluesky, and Canadian...

This week on the Culture Junkie Podcast, Keith and Xandra dive into three very different — but surprisingly connected — stories shaping the world around us. First, they discuss the Belleville synagogue shooting and the broader questions surrounding violence, community, and the increasingly complicated political climate. Then the conversation turns to politics in music, including the controversy su...

This week, Xandra and Keith catch up on the stories, conversations and happenings that have been grabbing their attention — from pop culture and the latest media buzz to the increasingly interesting world of local politics. One of the big topics is the upcoming Elizabeth Holmes documentary ***You Can See Everything***, the new A24 documentary from Nathan Fielder and Lance Oppenheim. The film takes...

Nine eleven, media literacy, AI fakery, and why the more things change, the more they stay the same. Keith and Xandra turn a September check-in into a sharp, funny, and unexpectedly personal reflection on memory, propaganda, and how we decide what history means. Keith starts with family - from his parents' 64th anniversary to stories about grandparents who lived through world wars - and uses those...

September is when the pace changes, the culture shifts, and the most interesting conversations start happening. Keith and Xandra open up on everything from Thatcher-era politics and media as education, to the sports season, online beef, and the strange evolution of Burning Man from counterculture experiment to lottery-only, influencer-adjacent spectacle. What starts as a loose September catch-up t...

What happens when a self-taught drummer, a former programmer, and a lifelong creative refuses to let gatekeeping define their career? Dave Lowe shares the unlikely path that took him from basement drums to Humber College, cruise ships, sync licensing, and a thriving music production studio - and why he still believes the soul of music can’t be replaced. Dave opens up about the moment a drummer’s l...

Spider-Man might be the excuse, but this episode is really about the media habits, political moods, and algorithmic traps shaping how we think right now. Keith and Xandra kick off the first Culture Junkie Podcast with a fast-moving conversation that jumps from a theater review to social media toxicity, bot-driven outrage, and why being provocative online is often a dead end. They break down what m...

One year, 52 episodes, 44 guests, and a whole lot more behind-the-scenes work than most listeners ever realize. Keith and Xandra look back on how Culture Junkie began, what surprised them most, and why the show has become a conversation about media, marketing, creativity, and the internet world we all live in. What started as a simple idea after great conversations with friends, colleagues, and bu...

In a digital world full of scams, misinformation, and subscription traps, how can you stay one step ahead? Keith and Xandra unravel the sneaky tactics scammers use to prey on human nature — from fake gem schemes to AI-fueled misinformation — and reveal simple, practical strategies to protect yourself online. This episode dives into the psychology behind online scams, explaining how scammers exploi...

Hollywood is returning to practical effects while CGI gets scrutinized? In this episode, Keith and Xandra dive into the fascinating world of blockbuster filmmaking, exploring how industry veterans are shifting gears to create more authentic, jaw-dropping scenes without relying on cheap CGI. From the early days of digital analog layering to Christopher Nolan’s bold stand against AI and CGI, this co...

Most creators believe AI will steal their jobs — but what if it could unlock a new era of democratized, ethical animation? Hogan Shrum, co-founder of PIPA, shares how his innovative platform is empowering anyone to bring their ideas to life with AI, without needing prompting expertise. From bedtime stories turned cartoons to community-driven artist styles, Hogan reveals a vision where creativity i...

Most creative industries are at a breaking point, but a new wave of opportunities is emerging for creators if you know where to look. Keith and Xandra dive into the evolving media landscape, revealing why traditional powerhouses like Cannes are now eyeing creators and how small creators can capitalize on this seismic shift before it’s too late. In this episode, we break down the surprising rise of...

Most creatives feel lost when it comes to building a sustainable career. Chris Mitchell, a seasoned artist, entrepreneur, and coach, reveals how to turn your passion into a lasting, thriving practice without sacrificing your well-being or authenticity. Imagine transforming your artistic journey at any stage of life. With over 20 years of experience in product development, arts leadership, and coac...

Most of us encounter life-altering moments that test our resilience—and few come out on the other side with the same zest for life. Paul Abdul's story is a testament to radical reinvention facing health crises, career pivots, and personal loss—all while maintaining an unstoppable optimistic outlook. In this deeply inspiring episode of the Culture Junkie Podcast, Paul shares how early lessons from...

What if the next great investigative journalist isn't sitting in a newsroom—but sitting at a kitchen table with a laptop? In this episode, Keith explores the evolution of investigative journalism and the growing power of independent creators to expose corruption, scams, deception, and abuse of power. Inspired by legendary television journalist Geraldo Rivera and his groundbreaking exposé of the Wi...

Most of us never think about the fascinating journey behind car media’s evolution — or how authenticity and storytelling can transform a career in a highly traditional industry. Kay Lane, a trailblazing automotive journalist turned industry influencer and coach, reveals how she broke barriers as a woman of color in the car world, built a personal brand that went viral in Japan, and adapted to the...

Unlock the secret to slashing your fuel costs and extending your engine’s life—without voiding your warranty or breaking the bank. If rising gas prices have you worried about what’s coming next, this episode may hold the key to smarter (and cheaper) driving. Meet Ryan, an agile project manager turned automotive innovator, and David, a sales expert with a passion for long-lasting engines. Together,...

Most creators feel stuck in a box, forced to choose a niche, or risk being invisible. But what if the secret to true creative freedom is doing the opposite? When platforms reward specialization, this episode reveals how embracing your multifaceted nature can actually help you stand out—and build a loyal audience that loves every side of you. Xandra and Keith dive into the messy, authentic journey...

Most people know Danny Marks as a legendary Canadian guitarist, but his journey is a masterclass in evolution, resilience, and staying true to your roots. From a teenage blues enthusiast to a chart-topping band member, and now a blues omnivore with a decades-long career, Danny shares the stories behind his legendary hits, the insights that shaped his sound, and the unbreakable drive that keeps him...

Most photographers dream of capturing iconic moments like working with the White House or National Geographic — but few understand the unconventional mindset behind those successes. Scott Proposki, a former National Geographic and White House event photographer, reveals how embracing your unique focus can turn a creative passion into a lasting business. When the world shifted in 2020, Scott didn’t...

Most businesses underestimate the power—and the trap—of training AI algorithms in their marketing. Sheldon Poon, a pioneer in performance marketing, reveals how the shift from creative storytelling to engineering precision is transforming digital advertising—and what you need to do to stay ahead. Sheldon shares his surprising journey from classroom teacher to tech-driven marketing strategist, illu...

Unlock the secret to reclaiming strength, energy, and confidence after 40—Funk Roberts shares his transformative journey from professional volleyball star to pioneering fitness mentor for men over 40. At 57, he’s living proof that age is just a number when you understand the right mindset and strategies—whether it’s battling low testosterone, overcoming addiction, or reinventing your body. In this...

Most climate solutions currently feel out of reach or only appeal to the dedicated — but what if sustainable change could be simple, profitable, and appealing to everyone? Josh Dorfman, climate entrepreneur and media strategist, reveals how shifting the narrative from doom and gloom to tangible, everyday wins is transforming the way businesses and consumers approach climate action. His story, from...

Will Adams is an award-winning Chicago filmmaker, director, and producer and the founder of Lokekey Productions, a fiercely independent production company dedicated to bold urban storytelling and amplifying new voices in film. Known for turning limitations into launchpads, Adams has built a reputation for creating high-quality, thought-provoking films regardless of budget or circumstance. His earl...