Culture, Commentary & the Things That Shape Us

From internet trends to everyday rituals, this is where culture lives. Explore how we express, create, consume, and connect—through media, art, tech, and shared experiences that define our time.

The global toll of fast fashion and clothing waste

Fast fashion brands may offer convenience, but at what cost? As 92 million tonnes of textile waste fill landfills annually, and millions of garment workers endure exploitation for minimal pay, we must confront the unsustainable reality behind bargain prices. Breaking this cycle requires supporting ethical alternatives and redefining our relationship with clothing.

Being kind to AI is costing a fortune

Being kind to AI chatbots has a hidden cost. While saying “please” and “thank you” seems harmless, these extra words require massive computational resources. According to OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, these pleasantries cost tens of millions in electricity bills. Unlike human interactions where kindness is free, politeness to AI comes with a significant environmental price tag.

What is the difference between AI and Google Search?

Google and AI serve fundamentally different purposes. Think of Google as a vast library that points you to information sources, while AI functions more like a knowledgeable librarian who synthesizes information for you. Understanding this distinction helps you choose the right tool—Google for factual queries and real-time updates, AI for complex questions requiring dialogue and personalization.

Can short term rentals displace natural residents?

Short-term rentals like Airbnb can significantly disrupt housing markets in popular cities, driving up prices and displacing long-term residents. Berlin’s experience shows how concentrated rentals in desirable neighborhoods accelerated gentrification, prompting regulatory responses. However, these platforms also provide economic benefits by diversifying income for homeowners and distributing tourism dollars beyond traditional districts.

What is Nandos Creative Block?

Among the many success stories from Nando’s creative initiatives is artist Themba Khumalo, whose charcoal township landscapes evolved from a single Creative Block submission in 2015 to international recognition. “The regular income gave me breathing room to experiment,” explains Khumalo, who now operates his own Johannesburg studio and has works in major collections worldwide—demonstrating how Nando’s initiatives have created sustainable pathways for South African artists to achieve global success while maintaining their cultural roots.

Kill Tony’s Netflix Debut

In an era where comedy often finds itself walking on eggshells, Kill Tony’s Netflix debut stands as a rebellious reminder of what makes stand-up great—raw, unfiltered talent facing the ultimate trial by fire. Tony Hinchcliffe has managed to bring the underground energy of comedy’s proving grounds to mainstream streaming without sacrificing the brutal honesty that made the show a cult phenomenon in the first place.

What is solutions journalism?

The rise of solutions journalism represents one of the most subtle yet profound threats to journalistic integrity in recent memory. Cloaked in the language of positivity and constructive engagement, this approach fundamentally reshapes journalism’s role from fearless watchdog to hopeful storyteller.

What does the future look like for content creators?

The revelation from tech visionary Chamath Palihapitiya about content creators forming the “third wave” of digital platforms isn’t just theoretical—it’s a call to action. As brands increasingly recognize that authentic creator voices resonate more effectively than corporate messaging, we’re witnessing a fundamental power shift.

How much does it cost to start a podcast in South Africa?

Podcasting is no longer just a hobby, it’s a powerful platform for storytelling, branding, and independent media. In South Africa, anyone with a smartphone and an idea can start a podcast. Whether you’re working with a shoestring budget or looking to invest in professional gear, we break down exactly how much it costs to start a podcast and how to make the most of your resources.

The Bioscope Independant Cinema Johannesburg

South Africa’s film industry is flourishing, and at the heart of its independent cinema movement is Johannesburg’s beloved Bioscope. More than just a theatre, it’s a cultural haven for cinephiles, offering a platform for thought-provoking films, nurturing local talent, and keeping the spirit of indie film alive.

How short is our attention span really?

Our attention spans are shrinking, fast. With the rise of TikTok, Reels, and auto-play everything, we’re living in what I call the Attention Deficit Feedback Loop. As content gets shorter to match our focus, our focus keeps shrinking to match the content. But amidst this chaos, a new form of comedy is emerging, fast, relatable, and wildly popular sketches built for social media. Welcome to the future, where no one finishes books, but at least you get a 30-second laugh.

Everything you need to know about Buzzfeed

From viral listicles to Pulitzer-nominated reporting, BuzzFeed has had one of the most fascinating journeys in modern media. This article breaks down its origins, how it makes money, whether it counts as journalism, and what the future might hold for one of the internet’s most disruptive digital platforms.

Is podcasting killing traditional media?

As audiences turn away from TV and newspapers, podcasts and independent voices are filling the gap. With declining trust in legacy media and rising digital alternatives, traditional outlets are being forced to adapt—or risk becoming relics of the past.

ChatGPT 4o Image Generation Capabilities

ChatGPT 4o’s new in-chat image generation has changed everything. From high-quality illustrations to ad-ready product mockups, what used to take hours of graphic design now happens in seconds. This isn’t just an upgrade—it’s a wake-up call for creatives, agencies, and the future of visual content.

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