In today’s episode, we’re tackling a fascinating, slightly controversial topic that’s been around for decades: subliminal advertising.

What is it? Does it actually work? And more importantly, should brands be using it?

We’ve all heard stories of brands sneaking hidden messages into ads or movies to influence our buying decisions. But how much of this is fact, and how much is myth?

Tune in to join the conversation.

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Today, we’re unpacking one of the biggest clickbait crises of the year...What’s really going on with Justin Bieber? Recent reports from The Hollywood Reporter reveal the singer still owes his record label four albums as part of a contract he signed back in 2020. His team is reportedly wondering when he’ll return to fulfill his obligations, while fans are seeing him create music on social media and asking themselves what’s next.

Are you a Belieber? My family and I have actually attended all four of his world tour shows.

We’ll also discuss how clickbait marketing in the digital age walks a fine line, sometimes bordering on harassment of artists and their families. Do online users really understand the consequences of this type of marketing? Could Bieber find a way to escape a contract that, from all appearances, no longer fits the life he wants to lead?

Should there be systems to free artists from rigid agreements, especially when circumstances change? For Bieber, four more albums could mean another decade of working with a label he may no longer want to be part of. Is it fair to essentially own an artist’s time and creativity?

I’m breaking it all down. Tune in to join the conversation.

Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode and follow us on social media for bonus content, behind-the-scenes peeks, and opportunities to join the conversation. If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend.

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Today, we’re tackling a question that’s on everyone’s mind (whether we admit it or not): What does it really mean to be “pretty enough” in today’s digital age? With social media, filters, TikTok trends, and the entertainment industry shaping how we see beauty, the pressure feels heavier than ever. Who’s responsible for these toxic standards? Is it the media, groundbreaking tech like photo filters, marketers, entertainers, or a mix of everything?

We’ll explore the impact all of this has on mental health, societal pressures, and the endless cycle of chasing perfection. How does this obsession with anti-aging and the ideal appearance influence our youth?

Plus, as someone with experience in front of the camera as an actress and behind the scenes in entertainment marketing, I’ll share my personal experience with this while in the entertainment industry. You may be surprised by my point of view.

Tune in to join the conversation.

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Today, we’re unraveling groundbreaking discoveries beneath the Great Pyramid of Giza. Italian researchers have unearthed shafts and chambers 2,000 feet underground, hinting at a lost civilization that may predate the pyramids by tens of thousands of years. Could this hidden city rewrite human history as we know it?

We’ll explore the technologies that made these revelations possible, the role of social media in reshaping archaeology, and the profound implications of these findings. Did an ancient flood erase a civilization far more advanced than we imagined? And how does this change our understanding of the past in an era of rapid technological advancements? What kind of technologies have we been using to help us in archeological findings thus far?

Tune in to join the conversation.

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*The first Vicking settlement discovered in North America was found back in 1960, 300 miles from the latest site, not 30 miles.

Today, we’re unpacking one of the biggest marketing crises of the year...the new Snow White movie. From PR mishaps to social media debates, this film has sparked a lot of controversy.

My issue is many critics of the movie haven’t even stepped into a theater to see it. Imagine creating 30-minute rants online about something you haven’t even watched! My grandmother calls that “not real journalism,” and honestly? She’s totally on point.

This inspired me. I grabbed my mom, my grandmother, a friend, and headed to the theater myself. I also rewatched the iconic 1937 classic and analyzed four hours’ worth of reports to get the full picture. Snow White has been reimagined countless times, from Mirror, Mirror to Snow White and the Huntsman, but this latest version is sparking some major questions about marketing, controversy, and whether this branding can be saved.

We will also discuss the notion that when someone takes on an iconic role like a Disney Princess, there’s often an unspoken expectation that they embody the character beyond the screen. But is it fair to expect that?

Have we created an environment where actors are judged for staying true to themselves?

I’m breaking it all down—what worked, what didn’t, and why this movie caused such a marketing crisis. Tune in to join the conversation.

Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode and follow us on social media for bonus content, behind-the-scenes peeks, and opportunities to join the conversation. If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend.

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Show notes:

Tune into Next Gen Culture Files Episode 2, "The Fascinating History of Media and Theater's Role In It," at https://www.buzzsprout.com/2460122/episodes/16819454

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Today’s episode is both devastating and deeply critical.

We’re discussing the tragic story of Gabby Petito, a bright young woman whose life was cut short in 2021. Her case shook the world, shedding light on domestic violence, systemic failures, and the hidden dangers so many face.

What sets Gabby’s story apart is the pivotal role social media played. Recently released is a 3-part Netflix documentary titled "American Murder: Gabby Petito," featuring intimate interviews with Gabby’s parents, best friend, and others closest to her.

We’ll explore how social media is shaping modern investigations and the pressing lessons we must learn from this heartbreaking case.

If this episode resonated with you, share it with someone in your life. Together, we can honor Gabby Petito’s legacy and continue advocating for a future where abuse is no longer tolerated.

Until next time.

Show notes:

The Gabby Petito Foundation, visit: https://gabbypetitofoundation.org/

American Murder: Gabby Petito Netflix Documentary, visit: https://www.netflix.com/title/81733793

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Ever wondered how the media started? Or where did theater come from and how has it influenced people throughout history? And what about the role it played in shaping modern communication, media, and technology?

That’s exactly what we’re digging into in today’s episode of Next Gen Culture Files. Tune in and join the conversation!

Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and follow us on social media for bonus content, behind-the-scenes peeks, and opportunities to join the conversation. If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend.

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Show notes:

The release of “The Blacksmith Scene” in 1893, considered the first motion picture film featuring live actors, marked the dawn of cinematic storytelling.

YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I1kjU6j93DE

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Welcome to Next Gen Culture Files, where history, culture, media, and marketing intertwine. Hosted by Teasha Leigh, this podcast dives deep into how communication shapes and influences us (sometimes for better, sometimes for worse) and how we can remain genuine in the ever-evolving digital age.

If there’s one thing we want to leave you with today, it’s this: Stay curious. Keep opening doors. Keep asking questions. Communication has the power to connect us, inspire us, and transform us—if we use it wisely.

Don’t forget to subscribe so you never miss an episode, and follow us on social media for bonus content, behind-the-scenes peeks, and opportunities to join the conversation. If you enjoyed this episode, share it with a friend.

Until next time.

Show notes:

Marco Polo Official Netflix Trailer

YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TjxmgKuL7ZM

Vikings Clip of The Silk Road (6x01)

YouTube Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dH74zlS2G70

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