Curation, authenticity, and the male persona

The podcast explores the phenomenon of the "performative male" on social media, questioning the line between genuine self-expression and curated online personas. It examines how men, particularly those in creative or intellectual fields, use carefully staged images and virtue signaling to gain social or romantic capital. The discussion covers the use of "props," like vintage cameras and philosophical books, and the trend of "aura farming," where individuals cultivate a specific vibe for online appeal. The hosts also discuss the potential for gender policing and the challenges faced by men who genuinely embody softer aesthetics. Shifting to consumer behavior, the podcast analyzes the rise of durian as a supermarket draw, replacing eggs as a promotional item to attract younger shoppers. The durian's appeal is linked to its status as a luxurious indulgence and the "blind box" excitement of discovering its contents.