In this episode, Kira, Jackie, and Darja invite you to join a blunt, relatable, and eye-opening conversation about what it means to be yourself in a world driven by profit. From the pressures of social media to the impact of toxic masculinity, they share personal stories, ask tough questions, and explore whether authenticity is something we can reclaim – or if it’s always been out of reach. Pull up a seat and listen in as they unpack the struggles, joys, and possibilities of finding the real you in a capitalist society.
What does it mean to be authentic in a world of filters, polished content, and social media personas? This episode dives into the complex and often confusing concept of authenticity, using a fascinating real-world example: a German YouTuber who exposed influencers for promoting fake products, including a reality TV star who fell for the same trick twice.
We explore some big questions:
Is authenticity about consistency or simply being true to the moment?
How do our shifting personalities in different situations – at work, with friends, or online – affect what’s considered “real”?
In an era of influencers and polished lives can we even tell what’s authentic anymore? This episode uncovers how authenticity shapes trust, connection, and identity in today’s post-truth world.
Will artists lose their jobs to artificial intelligence? In this episode, Greta and Giulia explore whether AI is able to authentically replicate poetry if given a specific request to do so by comparing a real poem by American poet Sylvia Plath with an AI-generated one in terms of themes and style.
“The reason we struggle with insecurity is because we compare our behind-the-scenes with everyone else’s highlight reel.” – Steven Furtick
Welcome to our podcast “Art and Authenticity – finding your true self”, where we – Diana, Nadja and Beyza – touch on what it means to be authentic in the age of social media!
How important is authenticity on stage? In this podcast Carlotta, Lena and Pauline dive into this topic, and discover and discuss how important it is for them.
Editing the photos you post on social media is sometimes quite controversial, especially when it comes to your appearance. But what about cosplayers? Is it okay for them to edit their pictures?
Cosplay, for those unaware, is a form of fan art. You dress up as a specific character from any media you choose. Whether you make the costume yourself or buy it, whether you look exactly like the character or put them into a more casual outfit, the sky is the limit.
The picture is mine. I chose this image because it was already part of a public museum exhibit, so it has been accessible to a wider audience. I also share similar images on my public social media, but I consider the exposure in a museum and this platform to be different. While you’re welcome to search for me online if you’re curious, I won’t be providing any specific details or usernames. I simply want to keep the focus on the image in this context, rather than its broader presence elsewhere.
The song is “Deuces” from Kevin Macleod, its licensed under Creative Commons
Calling all “reading rats“ to join hosts Dela and Nhut as they dive into the world of book tropes and storytelling authenticity. From the sizzling tension of enemies-to-lovers to the game-changing impact of AI-crafted books, they’ll explore what makes a story feel fresh, engaging, and authentic—or just another cliché. If you’re all about originality, authenticity, or just a good literary chat, this episode is your perfect match. Grab your favorite read, and let’s dive in!
authentic. (2025). In Merriam-Webster.com. Retrieved January 23, from https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/authentic
Henry, E. (2022). Book Lovers. Berkley.
Murphy, M. (2022). A Million Kisses in Your Lifetime. EM publishing.
Quiston, C. (2019). Red, White & Royal Blue. St. Martin’s Griffin.
Sittenfeld, C. (2024). An Experiment in Lust, Regret and Kissing. The New York Times.
Music by https://pixabay.com/de. Cover by Dela.
2024/25 Winter: Authenticity
Reading Rats Podcast: Are Popular Book Tropes Inauthentic?
How honest is too honest? In this podcast, Sevval and Lottie dive into the communication concept of Radical Honesty: how it works, its promises and pitfalls, and if it fosters constructive communication.
Sources: Blanton, Brad. Radical honesty: How to transform your life by telling the truth. Dell, 1996. ‘How Many Thoughts Do You Have Per Day? And Other FAQs’. Healthline, 28 Feb. 2022, https://www.healthline.com/health/how-many-thoughts-per-day. Radical Honesty. https://www.radicalhonesty.com/. Accessed 20 Jan. 2025.
2024/25 Winter: Authenticity
Radical Honesty - The Promises and Pitfalls of Blunt Authenticity