In this episode, Manika is joined by Lydia (@landoflydia), a whip-smart TikTok creator and pop culture observer, for the first of a two-part conversation all about HBO’s high-stakes financial drama Industry. The episode opens with a lively round of Media Mania, where Manika and Lydia dive into timely entertainment stories, including the controversy surrounding HBO’s upcoming Harry Potter series. They break down the problematic implications of supporting JK Rowling’s work in 2025, especially in light of escalating anti-trans sentiment in the UK and US. Both express frustration at the entertainment industry’s unwillingness to hold creators accountable, and highlight how fandom often prioritizes nostalgia over human rights.
From there, the two shift gears to celebrate Sinners, Ryan Coogler’s genre-bending new musical, which they agree is already a strong Oscar contender. They praise its powerful storytelling, stunning vocals, and the joy of seeing a Black-led original IP break box office expectations—despite negative media framing. The conversation also veers into Marvel fatigue, the wasted potential of Blade, and the systemic obstacles still plaguing directors like Nia DaCosta and actors like Mahershala Ali.
Finally, they dig into Industry—the show’s themes, characters, and cutthroat environment. Manika recalls being drawn in by the promise of a “Succession-like” drama with a Black woman lead, while Lydia shares how the show piqued her curiosity after buzz around Interview with the Vampire. The two discuss the brutal demands of Pierpoint & Co., particularly the tragic death of Hari in episode one, and how that moment sets the tone for the show’s ruthless world.
They break down season one through the lens of its four key grads—Harper, Yasmin, Robert, and Gus—exploring their backgrounds, ambitions, and moral compromises. They praise Gus’s integrity, dissect Harper’s calculated ruthlessness, and debate whether Yasmin’s privilege shields or isolates her. A strong undercurrent of class and identity shapes the conversation, with both hosts reflecting on how different upbringings influence ambition in a world like Pierpoint.
The episode ends with a powerful discussion of Harper’s pivotal betrayal at the end of season one—when she chooses ambition over allegiance, takes down Daria, and secures her place beside Eric. Lydia and Manika agree: these aren’t good people—but that’s what makes them so compelling to watch.
Lydia's Socials
TikTok https://www.tiktok.com/@landoflydia
Manika's Socials
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1CmokqeLIagz7nYQJfeRIw
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@manika3000?is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1
Podcast Socials
YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@ivebeenmeaningtowatchthatp2316
Twitter: https://twitter.com/BeenMeaning2Pod
Tiktok: https://www.tiktok.com/@ivebeenmeaning2pod
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/Ive-Been-Meaning-To-Watch-That-113280083760521/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ivebeenmeaning2/
Thank you so much for listening to the podcast. We really appreciate it.