From 2019 to 2023, Letao’s YouTube channel examined popular culture and her personal life, blending her philosophies with social commentary to develop contemporary theories. Below is a selection of her works.



Performance Trash

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Critiquing the trend of posting zoomed in photos of trash on Instagram. What does it mean to perform identity with images that are not personally identifiable? How does zoomed in images of trash reflect a collective fear of cyborgs? 
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"Before I post, I run through a never ending list of potential judgements anyone could have. So every justification to posting a photo is that it has to mean more to me than those potential judgements. Which makes my performance more real- but only to me. I believe the message of this photo, but the message is obscured by you seeing it- through a medium that insinuates I seek validation from an infinite and unpredictable audience. Are you who you advertise?"
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How Instagram Destroyed Hawaii: The Fallacy of Paradise

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This video explores the portrayal of the Hawaii islands as a "paradise" for influencers’ personal branding while overlooking real issues like homelessness, poverty, and the displacement of Native Hawaiians. It discusses Hawaii’s colonial history and shows how this idealized image erases the struggles of local communities. It ultimately advocates for mindful tourism and greater awareness of Hawaii’s socio-economic challenges.
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ROTTEN CRYPTO BR0

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The speaker reflects on struggles with self-care and feeling trapped in an endless cycle of tasks, where productivity seems like the only measure of self-worth. Despite efforts to improve, they often feel stuck and uncertain about their ability to change. However, they find satisfaction through completing this video without being a perfectionist, discovering unexpected catharsis. This experience hints at the possibility of gradual growth and self-acceptance.
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PHILISOPHICAL APPROACH TO FASHION IDENTITY

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The video urges viewers to move beyond fleeting trends and cultivate a personal style rooted in their core values. It stresses the importance of wearing clothing that reflects individual identity, rather than succumbing to external pressures or societal expectations. How can we navigate trend anxiety and influence of group mentality? The speaker demonstrates that true style can be discovered through aligning with values that transcend beyond trends.
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i lost weight to fit into Brandy Melville

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How does a fast fashion brand contribute to eating disorders among girls? This video explores the impact of Brandy Melville’s one-size-fits-all policy and exclusive marketing tactics, revealing how the brand's focus on a singular, slim body ideal reinforces harmful beauty standards and encourages unhealthy behaviors.
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© 2024 Letao Chen