Ruined By The Internet?

The internet was supposed to be where the free exchange of knowledge and ideas happened. Instead, it’s become a place increasingly controlled by a few companies, leading to the regular suppression of inconvenient or unpopular ideas. Joining us is Wouter Constant, co-founder and researcher at Nostr, an open protocol for decentralised, censorship-resistant communication. With Wouter’s deep knowledge of how we got here, we’ll be asking has the internet ruined The Internet? https://nostr.com/ https://weboftrustfoundation.com/ In this episode, Wouter joins us to explore the evolution of the internet from its original promise of free expression to its current state dominated by centralised platforms. We discuss the implications of corporate control, government involvement, and the potential for a decentralised future that prioritises freedom of association and censorship resistance. We also look at the evolution of decentralised social media, and its implications for digital responsibility, identity, and content authenticity, as well as the importance of user responsibility in shaping the future of online interactions. 00:00 The Promise of the Internet and Its Decline 02:54 The Rise of Centralised Platforms 05:54 Investment, Network Effects, and the Corporate Sphere 09:00 Government Involvement and Censorship Dynamics 12:02 The Future of the Internet: Decentralisation and Freedom of Association 15:07 Challenges of a Decentralised Internet 18:08 The Responsibility of Platforms and User Experience 27:09 Understanding Responsibility in Digital Spaces 29:44 The Evolution of Decentralised Social Media 32:30 Nostr vs. Bluesky: A Comparative Analysis 35:30 The Role of Identity and Reputation in Nostr 39:16 Decentralisation and Content Authenticity 44:25 Navigating AI-Generated Content in Nostr 50:51 Building a Safer Internet for Future Generations If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠

The internet has given us unprecedented connection, but thanks to relentless data retention and constant tracking of our every digital move, is it now virtually impossible to shed our old identity and start a new life undetected? To help us understand what we’re up against, we’re joined by Lachlan Jarvis, a private investigator, digital forensics expert, and Director of Lyonswood Investigations. https://www.investigators.net.au/ https://x.com/Lyonswood_PI https://www.instagram.com/lyonswoodinvestigations/?hl=en https://www.facebook.com/LyonswoodInvestigations https://www.youtube.com/@lyonswoodinvestigations In this episode, Lachlan joins us to look at the implications of the internet on personal identity and privacy. We explore how the digital landscape has evolved, the nature of digital footprints, and the challenges of disappearing in a connected world. We also look at the right to be forgotten, the feasibility of reinventing oneself, and the importance of digital hygiene in protecting personal information. 00:00 The Cost of Digital Identity 03:12 The Evolution of Private Investigation 06:07 Understanding Digital Footprints 09:03 Active vs Passive Digital Footprints 12:13 The Right to be Forgotten 14:59 The Challenges of Disappearing 17:50 The Role of AI in Investigation 20:54 The Feasibility of Reinventing Oneself 24:09 Digital Hygiene and Security 27:08 Identity Theft and Its Consequences 30:00 The Future of Digital Privacy If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠

With its constant presence and insatiable demand for attention, the internet has invaded our offline spaces, diminishing our ability to be truly present, and eroding the quality of our in-person experiences. To help us understand the costs of digital distraction, we’re joined by Emily Toner, a clinical psychologist and international expert in the fields of mindfulness, eco-psychology and mental health. https://www.emilytoner.com https://pod.link/1828836798 https://www.instagram.com/emilytoner_ https://www.facebook.com/emilytonerconsulting/ https://www.linkedin.com/in/emily-toner-27413336/ In this episode, Emily joins us to explore the profound effects of the Internet on social interaction and relationships, the importance of social connection for mental and physical health, and the changing definitions of social interaction in the digital age. We also look at the concept of ‘phubbing’, the state of 'doingness' versus 'beingness', the intersection of mental health, technology, and community connections, and the rising anxiety and depression in a tech-driven world. 00:00 The Impact of the Internet on Social Interaction 05:06 The Importance of Social Connection 09:55 Changing Definitions of Social Interaction 14:51 The Distraction of Technology in Social Settings 20:03 Phubbing: The New Social Norm 24:48 The State of Doingness vs. Beingness 28:09 The Importance of Community Connections 35:37 The Impact of Digital Interactions on Relationships 39:22 AI and the Future of Connection 46:25 Practical Strategies for Healthy Social Interactions If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠

It promised to empower artists and give listeners infinite choice. Instead, it’s turned music into a disposable commodity, replaced human curation with algorithms, and made it impossible for most artists to earn a sustainable living. To help us explore the new world of music, we’re joined by Charlie Hooper-Williams, a critically-acclaimed composer, pianist & creative coder, and one of the developers behindmusic-identification app Shazam. His new album ‘The Book of Fixed Stars’ is out now on The Way Beyond Music. http://charliehooperwilliams.com https://www.instagram.com/charliehooperwilliams https://www.youtube.com/@CharlieHooperWilliams In this episode, Charlie joins us to discuss his journey as a composer and pianist, the impact of digital technology on the music industry, and the challenges and opportunities presented by streaming platforms. We also look at the changing landscape of music consumption, the role of algorithms in discoverability, the influence of AI on music creation, as well as advice for aspiring musicians and the future of music in a technology-driven world. 00:00 Introduction to Charlie's Musical Journey 01:31 The Impact of Digital Transformation on Music 02:33 The TikTokification of Music 04:17 The Devaluation of Music as an Art Form 05:32 Streaming Platforms: Exposure vs. Earnings 08:06 The Role of Spotify in the Music Industry 08:51 The Challenges of Discoverability in the Digital Age 12:17 The Evolution of Artist-Fan Relationships 17:52 Technology's Role in Music Creation and Distribution 20:04 Navigating the Modern Music Landscape 22:56 The Art of Live Performance and Technology 25:46 The Role of Algorithms and AI in Music 34:50 The Future of Music in a Digital Age 40:46 Advice for Aspiring Musicians and Creators If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠

It promised to modernise an age-old activity, bringing new convenience to a quick thrill. Instead, it’s delivered a predatory, 24/7 addiction machine that exploits our psychology with algorithms, leading to what many consider a serious public health crisis. To help us understand what’s really at stake, we’re joined by Mark Kempster, a gambling reform advocate, and member of Australia’s Alliance For Gambling Reform’s Voices of Lived Experience program. https://www.instagram.com/mark_kempster https://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-kempster-2925317b/ https://x.com/OffOdds https://www.agr.org.au/ In this episode, Mark joins us to explore the profound impact of the internet and technology on gambling behaviours, the addictive design of digital gambling apps, and the normalisation of online gambling in society. We also look at the targeting of vulnerable demographics, the psychological effects of gambling, and the urgent need for reform and regulation to protect individuals and communities from the growing harms of online and digital gambling. 00:00 The Rise of Online Gambling and Its Impact 06:55 Addictive Design of Gambling Apps 11:48 Regulatory Challenges and Industry Influence 15:59 The Role of Data in Targeting Gamblers 23:38 The Future of Gambling Reform in Australia 25:33 The Pervasiveness of Gambling Among Youth 27:57 The Dangers of In-Play Betting 30:46 Normalisation of Gambling in Society 34:49 The Role of Technology in Gambling Addiction 39:03 The Need for Regulation and Accountability 43:33 Advocacy for Change and Hope for the Future If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠

It promised a world of self-expression and connection. But instead, it’s encouraged us to create performative versions of ourselves; curated by algorithms and validated by likes. To help us find the reality, we’re joined by Colin Corby, Digital Detox Coach, Technologist, and CEO of Technology Wellbeing. https://thedigitaldetoxcoach.com⁠ ⁠https://www.instagram.com/the_digital_detox_coach⁠ ⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@thedigitaldetoxcoach⁠ ⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/colincorby In this episode, Colin joins us to explore the complex relationship between technology and the human identity. We discuss how online personas are curated, the psychological effects of social media, and the role of influencers in shaping self-worth. We also look the implications of AI on identity, the psychological toll of a permanent online record and the diminishing empathy in digital interactions - ultimately contemplating the future of human identity in a technology-driven world. 00:00 The Impact of the Internet on Human Identity 02:49 Curating Online vs. Offline Selves 05:46 The Psychological Effects of Social Media 08:51 The Role of Influencers in Identity Formation 11:57 The Stress of Online Performance 14:44 AI and the Future of Human Identity 17:46 The Need for Digital Detox 21:00 The Psychological Toll of a Permanent OnlineRecord 24:05 Empathy in the Digital Age 27:00 AI's Role in the Workplace and Identity 30:07 The Future of Human Identity in a Tech-DrivenWorld If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠

It promised to make things more efficient, objective, and data-driven, but instead turned a human-centric discipline into an automated, impersonal system with new ethical and privacy concerns. To help us explore how people and technology work together, we’re joined by Dr Justine Ferrer, a Senior Lecturer in Human Resource Management in the Deakin Business School. http://www.linkedin.com/in/justineferrer In this episode, Justine joins us to discuss the evolving role of human resources in the age of technology, exploring the impact of automation and AI on HR practices, the balance between efficiency and the human touch, and the ethical implications of data privacy and surveillance in the workplace. We also look at the skills needed for future HR professionals, and the potential for AI to enhance rather than replace human roles in HR. 00:00 The Impact of Technology on Human Resources 02:57 The Shift Towards Strategic HR Management 06:00 Balancing Automation and Human Touch 08:47 Surveillance and Employee Trust 11:53 Data Privacy and Security Challenges 14:48 The Role of Small Businesses in HR Tech 17:57 AI, Bias, and the Future of Hiring 20:55 Skills for the Future of HR 23:43 The Ethical Framework for AI in HR 26:50 The Future of Human Resources If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠

Through predatory monetisation, rushed development, and profits over player enjoyment, has the joy and escapism of video games been lost? To give us a walkthrough, we’re joined by Steve Wright, owner and Editor-in-Chief of Stevivor.com, Australia’s leading independent video games outlet. https://stevivor.com https://bsky.app/profile/stevivor.com http://instagram.com/stevivor http://facebook.com/stevivor http://www.youtube.com/c/stevivor https://discord.gg/7YXk6DcS https://www.twitch.tv/stevivor In this episode, Steve joins us to explore the profound impact of the internet on the video game industry, discussing both the positive and negative aspects, including the evolution of gaming experiences, the rise of indie games, the dynamics of gaming communities, and the future of gaming in terms of subscription models and AI. Additionally, the discussion highlights the challenges and opportunities presented by the internet, emphasising the importance of connectivity and community in shaping the gaming landscape. 00:00 Introduction and Journey to Video Game Journalism 02:22 The Impact of the Internet on Gaming 04:31 Games as a Service: Trends and Consumer Behaviour 07:19 Community and Co-op Gaming Experiences 09:12 The Shift from Local to Remote Gaming 11:49 The Evolution of Game Design and Storytelling 15:38 Quality Control and Post-Launch Issues 17:59 Community Feedback and Developer Response 21:27 Indie Games and the Democratisation of Development 23:49 Nostalgia and Preservation of Classic Games 24:45 The Rise of Indie Games and Community Innovation 27:02 Navigating Healthy vs. Toxic Gaming Communities 29:03 The Phenomenon of eSports and Competitive Gaming 31:57 The Impact of Competitive Mindsets on Casual Gaming 34:18 Finding Your Place in the Modern Gaming Landscape 36:46 The Financialisation of Gaming: Microtransactions and Subscriptions 37:57 The Role of Early Access in Game Development 41:00 The Future of Gaming: Subscription Models vs. Ownership 44:16 The Potential of Customised Gaming Experiences 46:10 The Positive Impact of Connectivity on Gaming Culture If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠

It promised unlimited reach, direct engagement, and a more informed world. But instead devalued expertise, creating a ‘clicks and outrage’ economy where speed reigns over accuracy. To help us get the full story, we’re joined by John DeDakis, an award-winning novelist, writing coach, public speaker, and former CNN Senior Copy Editor. https://johndedakis.com/ https://www.amazon.com/stores/author/B002BM6WM0 https://www.instagram.com/dedakisjohn/ https://www.facebook.com/john.dedakis https://bsky.app/profile/johndedakis.bsky.social In this episode, John DeDakis, a former CNN editor and current writing coach, discusses the profound changes in journalism brought about by the internet. He highlights the challenges of maintaining trust in news, the impact of AI and misinformation, and the importance of media literacy. We also explore the need for public broadcasting and the role of citizen journalism in shaping the media landscape. DeDakis concludes with a hopeful outlook for the future of journalism, stressing the importance of curiosity and discernment in the pursuit of truth. 00:00 The Journey of a Journalist 02:16 The Impact of the Internet on Journalism 03:52 Skepticism and Trust in Digital News 06:25 Challenges for Editors in the Digital Age 08:48 The Shift Towards Clickbait and Investigative Journalism 11:35 The Rise of Citizen Journalism 13:55 The Role of AI in Journalism 16:37 The Future of Content Creation 19:14 The Ethics of AI and Journalism 21:19 Substack and the Future of Individual Journalism 24:08 The Evolution of Journalism in the Digital Age 30:15 The Importance of Media Literacy and Education 37:08 The Role of Public Broadcasting in Journalism 42:50 Hope for the Future of Journalism 45:18 Curiosity as a Key Skill for Writers If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠

By replacing linear, scheduled programming with huge libraries of on-demand content, have the business models and power structures of traditional tv been toppled for good? To help us see the full picture, we’re joined by Amanda Lotz, an award-winning author, professor and research leader at Queensland University of Technology’s Digital Media Research Centre. https://amandalotz.com ⁠https://www.amazon.com.au/stores/Amanda-D.-Lotz/author/B001JSDEIW⁠ https://www.linkedin.com/in/adlotz/ https://bsky.app/profile/drtvlotz.bsky.social In this episode, Amanda Lotz explains the profound impact of the internet on broadcast television, along with how on-demand viewing has transformed audience engagement and the business models of traditional TV. We also explore the evolution of television, the rise of streaming services like Netflix, and the changing metrics of success in the industry, and touch on the future of traditional broadcasting and the broader concept of video consumption in a digital age. 00:00 The Evolution of Television and Media Studies 03:02 Impact of the Internet on Traditional TV 05:34 The Post-Network Era Explained 08:12 Changing Audience Behaviours and Viewing Habits 10:34 The Role of Technology in Viewing Experiences 13:21 The Inevitability of On-Demand Viewing 15:45 Netflix's Influence on Streaming Services 18:14 The Australian Broadcasting Landscape 20:41 Metrics of Success in a Fragmented Market 25:02 Understanding Netflix's Viewing Patterns 27:17 Traditional Broadcasters vs. Streaming Disruption 30:59 The New Golden Age of Television 33:22 Local Content Quotas in Australia 37:05 The Future of Traditional Broadcasting 42:50 The Evolution of Video Consumption If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠

It was once a very human-centric process, but for so many of us, the internet has transformed looking for work into an automated, opaque, and intensely competitive digital gauntlet. To help us unpack what’s going on, we’re joined by Edan Haddock, Global Head of Talent and People Experience at Movember. We explore the impact of AI on recruitment, the importance of maintaining human connections in virtualinterviews, and the need for personalisation in job applications. We also look at the ethical implications of AI in hiring and the future of recruitment, emphasising the importance of creativity and human-centric approaches in the hiring process. 00:00 The Evolution of Job Hunting in the Digital Age 03:02 The Impact of Technology on Recruitment 06:03 The Human Connection in Virtual Interviews 08:50 Navigating the Job Application Process 11:43 The Role of AI in Recruitment 14:58 Addressing Bias and Ethics in AI Hiring 17:52 The Future of Recruitment: Human-Centric Approaches 21:08 Strategies for Candidates and Employers 23:46 The Importance of Personalisation in Applications 26:52 The Balance of AI and Human Interaction 29:41 Looking Ahead: The Future of Job Searches 32:54 Final Thoughts and Future Directions If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠

It promised us unprecedented connection, but for many people the internet instead damaged the quality and authenticity of dating, by offering endless choice, a “shopping” mentality, and reduced emphasis on genuine, in-person connection. To help us get to the heart of things, we’re joined by Elly Klein, a professional dating mentor, author, and Founder of Your Dating Bestie. https://yourdatingbestie.com https://www.ellyklein.com/blog In this episode, Elly Klein joins us to explore the profound impact of the Internet on dating. We discuss the evolution of online dating, the pitfalls that many encounter, and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. Klein shares her insights on navigating the complexities of digital dating, the significance of crafting an authentic dating profile, the necessity of being open-minded in the search for love, and offers practical strategies for success in the online dating landscape. 00:00 The Impact of the Internet on Dating 06:05 Navigating Online Dating Pitfalls 11:56 The Numbers Game: Dating as a Funnel 18:03 Crafting the Perfect Dating Profile 24:00 The Role of Filters in Online Dating 29:55 Changing Perspectives on Dating Across Generations 35:48 Strategies for Successful Online Dating 41:47 Maintaining Positivity in the Dating Journey If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠

By demystifying the craft, exposing its secrets, and reducing complex tricks to bite-sized content, has the foundation of all magic – mystery – been eroded? Joining us to delve into this world is Cosentino, Australia’s most successful magician, illusionist and escape artist - known to audiences around the world as ‘The Grand Illusionist’. https://www.cosentino.com.au/ https://www.instagram.com/thecosentino/ https://www.youtube.com/officialcosentino https://www.facebook.com/TheCosentino/ https://www.tiktok.com/@thecosentino In this episode, Cosentino shares his journey from a shy child with learning difficulties to becoming a renowned magician. We discuss the evolution of magic in the digital age, the impact of social media on the craft, and the emotional connections that magic creates with audiences. We also look at the need for magicians and illusionists to develop their own storytelling and performance style, the benefits of technology in enhancing the art form, and Cosentino offers valuable advice for aspiring magicians and shares insights about his upcoming tour ‘Tricked’. 00:00 The Journey to Becoming The Grand Illusionist 04:07 The Impact of Technology on Magic 07:37 The Evolution of Performance Styles 12:05 Navigating Fame and Social Media 17:06 Balancing Secrets and Exposure in Magic 22:47 The Evolution of Magic in the Digital Age 27:45 The Impact of Technology on Magic Performance 31:46 The Art of Creating Wonder 37:13 Leveraging Technology for Magic 41:20 Advice for Aspiring Magicians If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠

Many people - especially parents - feel that the internet has seriously compromised the safety, well-being, and even innocence of young people, by exposing them to risks that the offline world struggles to contain. To help us understand the reality, we’re joined by Brett Lee, a Cyber Safety Advocate, Author, and Founder of Internet Safe Education. ⁠https://www.internetsafeeducation.com/ We discuss the impact of the internet on child safety, exploring the evolution of online risks, the role of anonymity, and the importance of parental guidance. We also look at the vulnerabilities of young minds and the need for legislation to protect children online, as well as the positive aspects of technology and the importance of community building in ensuring child safety in a digital world. 00:00 Introduction to Cyber Safety Education 03:08 The Evolution of Internet Dangers 05:56 The Nature of Online Predators 09:38 The Impact of Technology on Perception 11:52 Harmful Platform Features for Youth 14:29 Vulnerability of Young Users 17:07 Age Restrictions and Social Media 19:30 The Challenge of Cyberbullying 23:00 Anonymity and Its Dangers 25:53 The Role of Parents in Online Safety 26:37 The Role of Technology in Youth Creativity 27:55 Parental Guidance in Digital Spaces 29:45 Strategies for Safe Technology Use 31:37 Peer Pressure and Technology Access 33:25 Legislation and Community Norms 35:10 Positive Online Platforms for Youth 38:04 Navigating Social Media Risks 41:25 The Importance of Communication 45:41 Grassroots Efforts for Online Safety 48:07 Final Advice for Concerned Parents If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠

Thanks to the constant stream of information, endless notifications, and explosion of rapid-fire, short-form content, are we losing our capacity for sustained focus and deep concentration? In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Patrick Clarke, a Clinical Psychologist and Associate Professor at Curtin University. https://staffportal.curtin.edu.au/staff/profile/view/patrick-clarke-ec8428e9/ We discuss the complexities of attention in the digital age, exploring how our interaction with technology affects our cognitive abilities and emotional experiences, and how while our attention-related habits have changed, our fundamental cognitive abilities remain intact. We also look at various aspects of attention, including types, the impact of sensory load, and the influence of social media on mental health. Clarke also provides insights into strategies for improving focus and the importance of mindfulness in navigating the digital landscape. 00:00 Introduction to Attention and Digital Devices 02:48 Understanding Types of Attention 09:20 Attention Span in the Digital Age 11:00 Research Findings on Attention Over Time 13:10 The Impact of Interest on Focus 15:13 Switching Tasks and Focus 17:44 Brain Plasticity and Adaptation 21:40 Social Media and Short-Form Content 23:27 Cognitive Engagement and Anxiety Levels 24:12 The Impact of Short-Form Content 27:07 Social Media's Influence on Mental Health 30:46 Digital Interactions vs. Real-Life Relationships 32:38 Strategies for Improving Focus 38:38 Reassessing Attention Span Concerns If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠

Ever feel like the internet ruined everything? Join us as we explore the impacts of the technology shaping Society, Culture & the Modern World. Through in-depth conversations with relevant experts, we investigate the arguments, examine the evidence, and uncover the true casualties of the web - and the things we're just looking at wrong. If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to look into at ⁠⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠⁠