Kids on YouTube, Barbie as cultural icon

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The YouTube app is displayed on an iPad in Baltimore on March 20, 2018. Patrick Semansky/AP Photo

We learn more about concerns over the kinds of educational content that kids are exposed to on social media sites like YouTube. Then, a consumer science and happiness expert joins us to look at the Barbie movie success and the cultural role the famous doll plays.

Featured in this Show

  • The problem with kids' content on YouTube

    Six out of the ten most-viewed videos on YouTube are marketed towards kids—the ultra-popular “Baby Shark” sits comfortably in the #1 spot. To many creators, kids’ content is an easy cash cow, and getting views is as simple as getting the attention of children, and the site’s algorithm, with bright colors and buzzwords. We talk to an expert on early childhood media consumption about the potential harms of unregulated kids’ content on YouTube, and what parents need to be aware of. We also talk to a PBS Wisconsin education engagement specialist about what outreach is being done to help kids and parents make healthy media choices.

  • The role of Barbie in popular culture and how it's changed over the years

    The Barbie movie has seen great success at the box office. We talk to a UW-Madison consumer science professor about the doll’s cultural legacy and latest form.

Episode Credits

  • Rob Ferrett Host
  • Sarah Hopefl Technical Director
  • Beatrice Lawrence Producer
  • Lorin Cox Producer
  • Heather Kirkorian Guest
  • Jen Kobylecky Guest
  • Christine Whelan Guest

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