Future Features: A Deep Dive into K Beauty and Beyond - Interview with Flawless Author Elise Hu

Actual People

Welcome to Actual People, Ep. 7.
Join us on our voyage to the uncanny valley and back as we discuss the trajectory of beauty’s “cyborgian” future with TED Talks host and author of “Flawless, Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital,” Elise Hu.
In this captivating episode of Actual People, Chauncey sits down with Elise to explore the intricate world of beauty standards, technological influences, and the search for authenticity in our increasingly digital age while still having fun with beauty.
The episode dives deep into the themes of Elise's book, "Flawless," and unravels the complexities of beauty culture, the impact of technology on our perceptions, and the importance of self-acceptance and critical thinking in navigating these spaces.
🎉 H i g h l i g h t s 🎉
👁️ The Tech Gaze 👁️ : Elise discusses how modern beauty ideals are increasingly shaped by technology, from artificial enhancements to AI-generated beauty standards. She prompts us to consider the consequences of a world where aesthetic enhancement technologies mature to the point of realizing our "perfect visions."
💅🏽The Duality of Beauty Culture💅🏽:
Elise shares her personal experiences and reflections on the dual nature of beauty treatments and makeup - the joy and bonding it brings versus the underlying desires to "fix" ourselves physically. This duality sparks a broader conversation on self-betterment and the societal implications of beauty standards.
🤔Navigating Standards as Parents🤔: Both Chauncey and Elise share insights into parenting in an era dominated by digital influences and shifting beauty norms. They discuss strategies for fostering body positivity, critical thinking, and self-esteem in children, highlighting the importance of open dialogue and leading by example.
🔮Looking Towards the Future🔮: The conversation touches on the evolving definitions of beauty, inclusivity in the beauty industry, and the potential future landscapes of beauty and self-expression.
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This episode is a must-listen for anyone interested in the intersections of beauty, technology, culture, and self-identity or anyone navigating aging, raising kids, or, well, being human with ever evolving ideas of what that means. Elise Hu's insightful commentary, combined with Chauncey Zalkin’s thoughtful probing, makes for a deeply engaging discussion that leaves listeners with much to ponder about the future of beauty standards and the value of authentic self-expression.
Recommended Reading:📕
- “Flawless: Lessons in Looks and Culture from the K-Beauty Capital" by Elise Hu.
- Elise’s substack: https://substack.com/@elisehu
Written, directed, and executive produced by Chauncey Zalkin. Sound engineered by Eric Aaron. Photography by Alonza Mitchell with Design Consulting by Paper + Screen.
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