Jezer-Morton Discusses Social Media's Influence on Personal Narratives on PBS

Author Kathryn Jezer-Morton discussed her new book, 'The Story of Your Life,' with co-anchor Geoff Bennett on PBS's program 'Settle In' on October 19, 2026[5][7]. The conversation focused on social media's influence on personal narratives and identity, with the podcast version becoming available on October 13, 2026[8][9].

Jezer-Morton's work highlights how algorithm-driven platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and TikTok have transformed how individuals document and share their lives[11]. This shift impacts how people perceive themselves and define what constitutes 'a life well lived'[10].

What the records show

Kathryn Jezer-Morton's book, 'The Story of Your Life,' investigates how social media platforms have changed personal storytelling[11]. The book argues that these platforms change the method of information sharing, and they also shape the content itself, influencing the kinds of stories people tell[10][12]. Jezer-Morton's research, which includes interviews with everyday individuals, shows how social media has determined the 'look and sound' of personal life stories over the past two decades[10][13]. The book also introduces the 'redemption narrative,' which describes a societal pressure to frame difficulties as stories of personal growth[5]. Jezer-Morton suggests that while social media promises individuality, it can foster conformity[5]. She covers topics such as sharing milestones, struggles, homes, and relationships online[14]. Jezer-Morton holds a PhD in sociology from Concordia University and writes 'Brooding,' a biweekly column for The Cut[1]. Her writing on domestic life and digital culture has appeared in The New York Times and The Guardian[1]. Geoff Bennett, co-anchor and co-managing editor of PBS NewsHour, has covered six presidential elections and reported from the White House under three administrations[2].

The timeline

Kathryn Jezer-Morton's book, 'The Story of Your Life,' was published on August 4, 2026[11][13][14]. The podcast episode of 'Settle In' featuring Jezer-Morton was released on October 13, 2026[8][9]. The television program 'Settle In,' where Geoff Bennett interviewed Jezer-Morton, aired on October 19, 2026[5][7].

What changed and for whom

Over the past two decades, social media platforms have become the main way people share their lives[9][11]. This means personal histories are increasingly stored and presented on these platforms, replacing earlier documentation methods like photo albums[11][13]. The choices individuals make about what to post and what to omit reflect and shape their evolving identities, according to Jezer-Morton's analysis[10][11]. The algorithms and incentives within these platforms subtly influence the narratives people create about themselves, which may lead to a feeling of alienation from their own lived experiences[8][9].

What the subject has said publicly

During her discussion on 'Settle In,' Kathryn Jezer-Morton stated that social media promises individuality but often results in conformity[5]. She also noted the prevalence of the 'redemption narrative,' where people feel pressured to present difficulties as stories of personal growth[5]. Geoff Bennett, as co-anchor of PBS NewsHour, provides reporting and analysis on the political and cultural forces shaping American life[2]. He noted that social media has become the main way people share their lives and that the interview explored how platform incentives narrow the kinds of stories individuals tell[5].

What we could not confirm

We could not confirm the specific audience demographics reached by the 'Settle In' program or podcast episode discussing the book.