Ruined By The Internet?

Gareth King
  • 5.0 (2)
  • TECHNOLOGY
  • UPDATED BIWEEKLY

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 to look into at ⁠⁠www.ruinedbytheinternet.com

  1. Social Interaction: has the internet invaded our spaces and damaged our experiences? – Emily Toner

    5D AGO

    Social Interaction: has the internet invaded our spaces and damaged our experiences? – Emily Toner

    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/⁠

    51 min
  2. Music: has the internet replaced artists with algorithms? – Charlie Hooper-Williams

    NOV 16

    Music: has the internet replaced artists with algorithms? – Charlie Hooper-Williams

    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/⁠⁠

    46 min
  3. Gambling: has the internet turned your phone into a 24/7 addiction machine? – Mark Kempster

    NOV 2

    Gambling: has the internet turned your phone into a 24/7 addiction machine? – Mark Kempster

    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_kempsterhttps://www.linkedin.com/in/mark-kempster-2925317b/https://x.com/OffOddshttps://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/⁠⁠

    51 min
  4. The Human Identity: has the internet exchanged authenticity for audience? – Colin Corby

    OCT 19

    The Human Identity: has the internet exchanged authenticity for audience? – Colin Corby

    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/⁠⁠

    41 min
  5. Human Resources: has the internet made the human-centric impersonal? – Dr Justine Ferrer

    OCT 12

    Human Resources: has the internet made the human-centric impersonal? – Dr Justine Ferrer

    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/⁠⁠

    33 min
  6. Video Games: has the internet turned fun into a subscription service? – Steve Wright

    OCT 1

    Video Games: has the internet turned fun into a subscription service? – Steve Wright

    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.comhttps://bsky.app/profile/stevivor.comhttp://instagram.com/stevivorhttp://facebook.com/stevivorhttp://www.youtube.com/c/stevivorhttps://discord.gg/7YXk6DcShttps://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/⁠⁠

    48 min
  7. Journalism & News: has the internet made everyone an expert journalist? – John DeDakis

    SEP 21

    Journalism & News: has the internet made everyone an expert journalist? – John DeDakis

    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/⁠⁠

    48 min
  8. Broadcast Television: has the internet left an entire business model for dead? – Amanda Lotz

    SEP 8

    Broadcast Television: has the internet left an entire business model for dead? – Amanda Lotz

    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/⁠⁠

    47 min
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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 to look into at ⁠⁠www.ruinedbytheinternet.com

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