This week we’re diving into Ariana Grande’s step back from visibility — her statement, the scrutiny, and why the reaction has me feeling icky.

Also, Hank Green just admitted he's over-relying on AI and BTS pulled out of the Grammys over the new "Asian pop" category - lots of thoughts on both!  Let’s get into it.

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References:

Ariana Grande Taking a Step Back from Visibility:

https://people.com/ariana-grande-taking-step-back-after-tour-amid-public-health-scrutiny-rep-exclusive-12032395

Ariana discussing the decision at her show in Chicago:

https://www.theguardian.com/music/2026/aug/04/ariana-grande-decision-to-step-back-from-visibility-chicago-petal

https://youtu.be/mkxz8zctZOs?si=71Yz6ls_qSnkh5vh

Hank Green’s AI Controversy:

https://www.vulture.com/article/hank-green-chatgpt-ai-controversy-explainer.html

BTS and the Grammys:

https://www.headlinerhub.com/bts-opts-out-of-grammys-following-new-asian-pop-category.html

Love by the Book, by Jessica George:

https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250282545/lovebythebook/

Yours Truly, by Abby Jimenez:

https://www.authorabbyjimenez.com/yourstrulybook

Kin, by Tayari Jones:

https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/635411/kin-oprahs-book-club-by-tayari-jones/