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Let's dive deep into the Metaverse, reflecting on our three-year journey, and discussing the hidden pros and cons of immersive digital platforms.

While the Metaverse offers unprecedented connection, are we fully aware of how it affects our mental health, relationships, and digital habits? During this episode we'll explore how a pro can also be a con, and why we must be mindful of the evolving digital landscape.

Key Topics Discussed in This Episode:

✅ The Evolution of the Metaverse – How has it changed over the past three years?
✅ Digital Presence vs. Real-Life Connection – Are we replacing in-person interactions?
✅ The Psychology of Social Platforms – Why does social media and the Metaverse trigger addiction and anxiety?
✅ The Risks of Losing Digital Communities – What happens when virtual worlds shut down?
✅ How Avatars Are Becoming Identities – The unintended emotional attachment to digital personas.
✅ The Algorithm Trap – How social platforms manipulate our attention and emotions.

Did you know? Studies show that social media overuse is linked to increased anxiety and depression, and the Metaverse may amplify this effect. We also discuss insights from the documentary The Social Dilemma and how businesses can reclaim control over their digital communities.

Links Mentioned:

• https://www.braininstitute.pitt.edu/using-lots-social-media-sites-raises-depression-risk
• https://childmind.org/article/is-social-media-use-causing-depression/

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Let's Figure This Out Together:

• Schedule a Discovery Call
• Book Brian for a Keynote, Speaking Engagement, Team Workshop or Interview
• Get Help with Digital Strategy, Consulting, or Coaching

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• Launch your own podcast on BuzzSprout
• Join us LIVE in VR at the Killer Bee Studios by grabbing an Oculus headset. Plus, earn some reward points from Meta!

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The TikTok blackout revealed the emotional impact and deep connections users have with the platform, raising critical discussions about cybersecurity and personal dependency on social media. As Brian, Olivia and Ashton explore the aftermath of the blackout, they emphasize the importance of diversifying engagement methods beyond lease digital properties like TikTok for greater security and sustainability in the digital landscape.

To wrap up, we envision a digital world where reliance on leased platforms like TikTok could become a precarious business strategy. Reflecting on the potential ramifications of a Meta acquisition, the conversation steers towards empowering creators to establish stable digital presences through owned platforms like websites and email lists. Practical tips on data management and the importance of proactive planning are shared, equipping listeners with strategies to navigate future trends in privacy and cybersecurity. Join us to uncover the complexities and opportunities of staying ahead in the ever-evolving digital realm.

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Let's Figure This Out Together:

• Schedule a Discovery Call
• Book Brian for a Keynote, Speaking Engagement, Team Workshop or Interview
• Get Help with Digital Strategy, Consulting, or Coaching

Affiliate Links:

• Launch your own podcast on BuzzSprout
• Join us LIVE in VR at the Killer Bee Studios by grabbing an Oculus headset. Plus, earn some reward points from Meta!

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In this episode we'll introduce you to Blue Sky, a new social media platform focused on putting users in control of there data and controlling what you see in feeds. Olivia shares how Blue Sky stands apart in the digital landscape, offering creators independence and users a refreshing, less overwhelming social media experience reminiscent of early Facebook days. As dissatisfaction grows with Elon Musk's Twitter, now X, Blue Sky emerges as a promising contender for those seeking more control and transparency.

Join us as we dissect the platform's open-source roots and its dedication to decentralization. This episode also tackles the pressing issue of social media burnout, emphasizing the need for conscious engagement and time away to recharge. As we prepare for a holiday break, we reflect on the importance of taking a breather and returning reinvigorated, ready to explore new horizons. Whether you're a developer, creator, or simply a user looking for a more mindful approach to social media, this conversation is your gateway to understanding and embracing the potential of Blue Sky.

Links Mentioned During Episode:

• 5 Signs You Might Be Burnt Out
• 5 Tips to Overcome Social Media Burnout

Support the show

Let's Figure This Out Together:

• Schedule a Discovery Call
• Book Brian for a Keynote, Speaking Engagement, Team Workshop or Interview
• Get Help with Digital Strategy, Consulting, or Coaching

Affiliate Links:

• Launch your own podcast on BuzzSprout
• Join us LIVE in VR at the Killer Bee Studios by grabbing an Oculus headset. Plus, earn some reward points from Meta!

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Unlock the future of wearable tech with us as we explore Meta's groundbreaking AI-powered Ray-Ban glasses. What if your sunglasses could do more than just shield your eyes? Meet the smart eyewear that sees your world, all while letting you stay connected to the real world. Join Brian, Ashton, Olivia, and Shawna as we unveil how these innovative glasses offer a hands-free experience, streamlining every angle of your day.

Discover how Meta AI glasses are revolutionizing content creation and daily convenience by providing first-person perspectives on live streams and identifying objects and dog breeds, or even translating airport signs while traveling out of country. Our discussion highlights the creative possibilities and practical applications that these smart glasses bring to the table.

Travelers and tech enthusiasts alike will appreciate the features designed to make life easier, from translating text on signs to reading book summaries. As we speculate on future iterations and potential augmented reality advancements, we invite you to share your own thoughts and questions. Tune into our conversation and see how these AI-enhanced glasses could reshape how we interact with technology.

Ashton's Ray-Ban Example on Instagram

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Curious about the latest in AI and mixed reality technology? Discover how Meta is pushing the boundaries with groundbreaking innovations. Join Shawna, Olivia, and Brian on Mindful Bytes as they unpack Meta Connect 2024's jaw-dropping announcements. From the affordable Quest 3s headset to significant updates in Horizon World, we share our insights, including Shawna's surprising transformation from VR skeptic to enthusiast. Plus, hear about our exciting upcoming virtual event that promises to bring the future of social platforms into sharper focus.

Experience the power of AI like never before. We shine a light on Meta's revolutionary AI "Imagine Edit" feature, which allows users to effortlessly modify images. Picture changing clothing items in a photo with simple descriptions! This episode also highlights Meta's collaboration with Ray-Ban on AI-powered glasses, a game-changer for the visually impaired. As we marvel at these technological leaps, we also weigh the dual-edged sword of AI-generated images, which can both inspire creativity and introduce the risk of misinformation. 

Our discussion doesn't stop there. We explore how AI might redefine social media interactions, with assistants that mimic users' voices and appearances, and the incredible real-world applications of the new Meta Ray-Ban glasses. Looking ahead, we consider the potential and implications of future AR glasses, Meta's Orion glasses, touching on safety concerns and futuristic possibilities like self-driving cars. We invite you to be part of our live metaverse updates and welcome questions and feedback from our listeners. Prepare yourself for a peek into a sci-fi-like future that's closer than you might think!

Support the show

Let's Figure This Out Together:

• Schedule a Discovery Call
• Book Brian for a Keynote, Speaking Engagement, Team Workshop or Interview
• Get Help with Digital Strategy, Consulting, or Coaching

Affiliate Links:

• Launch your own podcast on BuzzSprout
• Join us LIVE in VR at the Killer Bee Studios by grabbing an Oculus headset. Plus, earn some reward points from Meta!

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Can we trust reviews anymore, or have they become part of the marketing game? In this episode of Mindful Bytes, we discuss the reliability of online reviews. With the rise of fake and paid reviews, can consumers trust what they’re reading anymore? The podcast panel explore how reviews have evolved, and how marketers are manipulating them. From buying fake reviews to the possibility of buying bad reviews to sabotage competitors, this episode asks the hard question: are reviews still trustworthy? Join Brian, Shawna, Olivia, and Ashton as they discuss personal experiences, potential solutions, and some ideas for what might come next in the review landscape.

What to Expect:

• The Shift from Brand Loyalty to Review-Based Purchasing: We discuss how consumers have moved away from relying on brand names to trusting reviews—and whether that trust is misplaced.
• The Problem with Fake Reviews: How marketers are buying positive reviews to increase sales, and the tricky ethics behind incentivizing reviews for untested products.
• Can We Trust Influencers? Olivia raises the question of influencer credibility and the lack of regulation on paid endorsements.
• The Possibility of Bad Reviews Being Bought: Brian explores whether companies might be paying for negative reviews to harm competitors.
• Signs of Fake Reviews: Tips on how to spot repetitive, unnatural, or overly generic reviews that might be red flags.
• A Future of Verified Influencers? Brian shares an idea, could platforms create a rating system for influencers to help consumers determine their trustworthiness?
• Word-of-Mouth’s Comeback: Brian shares another idea based on how consumers are increasingly trusting friends’ recommendations over online reviews, and how social media could play a role in connecting buyers to trusted reviewers.

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Let's Figure This Out Together:

• Schedule a Discovery Call
• Book Brian for a Keynote, Speaking Engagement, Team Workshop or Interview
• Get Help with Digital Strategy, Consulting, or Coaching

Affiliate Links:

• Launch your own podcast on BuzzSprout
• Join us LIVE in VR at the Killer Bee Studios by grabbing an Oculus headset. Plus, earn some reward points from Meta!

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How safe is social media for our kids? On this episode of Mindful Bytes, we explore the app Zigazoo, often dubbed "TikTok for kids." Discover how Zigazoo aims to provide a safer online environment for children aged eight and up with features like parental controls, human-reviewed content, and educational challenges. The panel weigh the pros and cons of this platform, from fostering creativity to concerns about the long-term feasibility of human content review. Join us as Shawna and the panel dissect the innovative aspects and potential pitfalls of Zigazoo.

As we look beyond Zigazoo, we tackle the broader issue of child safety on social media platforms. Can you trust parent reviews, and do they align with your values? We discuss the impact of exposing young children to potentially inappropriate content, and the implications of platforms lowering age limits. The conversation highlights the developmental effects of early social media exposure, emphasizing the need for parents to set boundaries and think critically about the role of social media in their children's lives.

Lastly, we focus on Instagram’s new safety measures for teens and the complexities of social media. Reflecting on platforms like Lego Life, we examine the impact of social validation on young minds and how Instagram's teen accounts aim to create safer experiences. Despite these protections, doubts linger about the efficacy of tech companies in safeguarding teens from harmful beauty and fashion standards. We wrap up the episode by discussing the effectiveness of supervision and calling for listener feedback on these vital issues. Don't miss this compelling discussion on the future of social media for children and teens.

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Let's Figure This Out Together:

• Schedule a Discovery Call
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• Get Help with Digital Strategy, Consulting, or Coaching

Affiliate Links:

• Launch your own podcast on BuzzSprout
• Join us LIVE in VR at the Killer Bee Studios by grabbing an Oculus headset. Plus, earn some reward points from Meta!

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Could AI become your close friend? What if becoming “invisible” could help your business stand out? Have your heard about Instagram's new DM features? In this episode of Mindful Bytes, you'll be introduced to a new AI gadget and how it can potentially become your next friend. We'll explore using the private feed to deepen connections with your audience and new DM features coming to Instagram.

What to Expect:

• AI and Connection: Ashton introduces a new AI device called “AI Friend,” which acts like a virtual companion, and discusses the implications of AI in fostering connections.
• Becoming Invisible to Stand Out: Brian introduces a counterintuitive strategy—using DMs and private feeds to build meaningful, one-on-one connections instead of relying solely on public feeds.
• Instagram’s New DM Features: Olivia discusses how Instagram is shifting focus to DMs with new tools like birthday notifications, stickers, and customizable themes.
• The Future of Social Media: The panel discussed the declining impact of public posts and the increasing importance of private conversations in building authentic relationships.

Support the show

Let's Figure This Out Together:

• Schedule a Discovery Call
• Book Brian for a Keynote, Speaking Engagement, Team Workshop or Interview
• Get Help with Digital Strategy, Consulting, or Coaching

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• Launch your own podcast on BuzzSprout
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What’s more effective: building a personal brand or focusing on your company’s brand? Are wellness apps really beneficial, or do they pose hidden risks? How can chatbots like ManyChat enhance your social media engagement? Are AI-generated content and deepfakes a threat to online authenticity?

In this episode of Mindful Bytes, we dive into the current landscape of AI regulation, specifically discussing a bill in California aimed at controlling AI's potential to create deepfakes and other misleading content. We explore the pros and cons of using wellness apps, how chatbots like ManyChat are evolving to improve social media engagement, and the ongoing debate between building a personal brand versus a company brand. We wrap up with insights on maintaining authentic connections in the increasingly automated digital world.

What to Expect:

• AI Regulation and Its Impact: Learn about the proposed California bill and its implications for AI developers, especially concerning deepfakes and fake content.
• Wellness Apps: A discussion on the benefits and potential pitfalls of using apps for health and mental wellness, including privacy concerns and the importance of not outsourcing your health to technology.
• ManyChat Overview: Insights into how ManyChat is used to automate social media interactions and whether this tool can replace authentic engagement.
• Personal vs. Company Branding: A look at why personal brands are gaining traction over company brands, backed by surprising LinkedIn data.
• Authentic Connections: The importance of keeping it real in a digital world dominated by automation and AI.

Links Mentioned: (affiliate links used when possible)

• Watch Funny Bill Commercial
• Safe & Secure Innovation (AI Bill)
• Benefits of Mental Wellness Apps
• Rising Influence of Health & Wellness Apps
• ManyChat
• Schedule a Discovery Call with Brian

Support the show

Let's Figure This Out Together:

• Schedule a Discovery Call
• Book Brian for a Keynote, Speaking Engagement, Team Workshop or Interview
• Get Help with Digital Strategy, Consulting, or Coaching

Affiliate Links:

• Launch your own podcast on BuzzSprout
• Join us LIVE in VR at the Killer Bee Studios by grabbing an Oculus headset. Plus, earn some reward points from Meta!

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Do you trust the companies behind the tech you use every day, or are you concerned about the power they hold?

In this episode of Mindful Bytes, the team dives into the fascinating yet sometimes intimidating world of emerging technologies. We touch on AI facial recognition, the implications of Google's potential breakup, and why you shouldn’t underestimate Snapchat. We also explore the concept of the “Third Day Magic” effect on your mental health, discuss a major metric shift on Facebook and Instagram, and introduce a cutting-edge AI tool that could revolutionize how you handle phone calls. With special guest Maggie Thorne 🎀, who brings her unique perspective as a VP and American Ninja Warrior 💪, this episode is packed with insights, humor, and actionable advice.

What to expect in this episode:

• AI Facial Recognition & Ethics: Maggie Thorne shares her insights on how AI is reshaping safety, security, and marketing, but also brings up critical ethical concerns about its use.
• Third Day Magic: Shawna introduces the "Third Day Magic" concept, discussing the profound mental shifts that occur when we disconnect from technology for a few days.
• Snapchat's Growing Influence: Olivia breaks down why Snapchat's new subscription model is outpacing Meta and X, highlighting its unique appeal and user engagement strategies.
• Google’s Legal Battle: Ashton provides an overview of Google’s current antitrust lawsuit, explaining how it could lead to a breakup of the tech giant.
• Major Metric Change on Facebook & Instagram: Brian discusses a significant shift in how Facebook and Instagram will measure video performance, explaining why views will now be the primary metric and what that means for content creators.
• AI-Driven Call Notes: Brian introduces a new AI tool called "Plaud Note" that automatically records and organizes phone calls, offering a glimpse into how AI can streamline everyday tasks.

Tune in for a thoughtful discussion on how to navigate the fast-evolving tech landscape without losing touch with what truly matters.

Links Mentioned: (affiliate links used when possible)

• 3rd Day Magic
• Snapchat Subscriptions
• Google Breakup
• Metric Change for Facebook & Instagram
• The Plaud Note

Support the show

Let's Figure This Out Together:

• Schedule a Discovery Call
• Book Brian for a Keynote, Speaking Engagement, Team Workshop or Interview
• Get Help with Digital Strategy, Consulting, or Coaching

Affiliate Links:

• Launch your own podcast on BuzzSprout
• Join us LIVE in VR at the Killer Bee Studios by grabbing an Oculus headset. Plus, earn some reward points from Meta!