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, has the internet 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. But has the internet 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. But has the internet instead 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 has the internet instead 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 has the internet 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 has the internet 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/⁠⁠