Ruined By The Internet?

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.comhttps://pod.link/1828836798https://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 Interaction05:06 The Importance of Social Connection09:55 Changing Definitions of Social Interaction14:51 The Distraction of Technology in Social Settings20:03 Phubbing: The New Social Norm24:48 The State of Doingness vs. Beingness28:09 The Importance of Community Connections35:37 The Impact of Digital Interactions on Relationships39:22 AI and the Future of Connection46:25 Practical Strategies for Healthy Social InteractionsIf 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.comhttps://www.instagram.com/charliehooperwilliamshttps://www.youtube.com/@CharlieHooperWilliamsIn 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 Journey01:31 The Impact of Digital Transformation on Music02:33 The TikTokification of Music04:17 The Devaluation of Music as an Art Form05:32 Streaming Platforms: Exposure vs. Earnings08:06 The Role of Spotify in the Music Industry08:51 The Challenges of Discoverability in the Digital Age12:17 The Evolution of Artist-Fan Relationships17:52 Technology's Role in Music Creation and Distribution20:04 Navigating the Modern Music Landscape22:56 The Art of Live Performance and Technology25:46 The Role of Algorithms and AI in Music34:50 The Future of Music in a Digital Age40:46 Advice for Aspiring Musicians and CreatorsIf 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_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 Impact06:55 Addictive Design of Gambling Apps11:48 Regulatory Challenges and Industry Influence15:59 The Role of Data in Targeting Gamblers23:38 The Future of Gambling Reform in Australia25:33 The Pervasiveness of Gambling Among Youth27:57 The Dangers of In-Play Betting30:46 Normalisation of Gambling in Society34:49 The Role of Technology in Gambling Addiction39:03 The Need for Regulation and Accountability43:33 Advocacy for Change and Hope for the FutureIf 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.com⁠⁠https://www.instagram.com/the_digital_detox_coach⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@thedigitaldetoxcoach⁠⁠https://www.linkedin.com/in/colincorbyIn 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 Identity02:49 Curating Online vs. Offline Selves05:46 The Psychological Effects of Social Media08:51 The Role of Influencers in Identity Formation11:57 The Stress of Online Performance14:44 AI and the Future of Human Identity17:46 The Need for Digital Detox21:00 The Psychological Toll of a Permanent OnlineRecord24:05 Empathy in the Digital Age27:00 AI's Role in the Workplace and Identity30:07 The Future of Human Identity in a Tech-DrivenWorldIf 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 Resources02:57 The Shift Towards Strategic HR Management06:00 Balancing Automation and Human Touch08:47 Surveillance and Employee Trust11:53 Data Privacy and Security Challenges14:48 The Role of Small Businesses in HR Tech17:57 AI, Bias, and the Future of Hiring20:55 Skills for the Future of HR23:43 The Ethical Framework for AI in HR26:50 The Future of Human ResourcesIf 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.comhttps://bsky.app/profile/stevivor.comhttp://instagram.com/stevivorhttp://facebook.com/stevivorhttp://www.youtube.com/c/stevivorhttps://discord.gg/7YXk6DcShttps://www.twitch.tv/stevivorIn 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 Journalism02:22 The Impact of the Internet on Gaming04:31 Games as a Service: Trends and Consumer Behaviour07:19 Community and Co-op Gaming Experiences09:12 The Shift from Local to Remote Gaming11:49 The Evolution of Game Design and Storytelling15:38 Quality Control and Post-Launch Issues17:59 Community Feedback and Developer Response21:27 Indie Games and the Democratisation of Development23:49 Nostalgia and Preservation of Classic Games24:45 The Rise of Indie Games and Community Innovation27:02 Navigating Healthy vs. Toxic Gaming Communities29:03 The Phenomenon of eSports and Competitive Gaming31:57 The Impact of Competitive Mindsets on Casual Gaming34:18 Finding Your Place in the Modern Gaming Landscape36:46 The Financialisation of Gaming: Microtransactions and Subscriptions37:57 The Role of Early Access in Game Development41:00 The Future of Gaming: Subscription Models vs. Ownership44:16 The Potential of Customised Gaming Experiences46:10 The Positive Impact of Connectivity on Gaming CultureIf 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.dedakishttps://bsky.app/profile/johndedakis.bsky.socialIn 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 Journalist02:16 The Impact of the Internet on Journalism03:52 Skepticism and Trust in Digital News06:25 Challenges for Editors in the Digital Age08:48 The Shift Towards Clickbait and Investigative Journalism11:35 The Rise of Citizen Journalism13:55 The Role of AI in Journalism16:37 The Future of Content Creation19:14 The Ethics of AI and Journalism21:19 Substack and the Future of Individual Journalism24:08 The Evolution of Journalism in the Digital Age30:15 The Importance of Media Literacy and Education37:08 The Role of Public Broadcasting in Journalism42:50 Hope for the Future of Journalism45:18 Curiosity as a Key Skill for WritersIf 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.socialIn 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 Studies03:02 Impact of the Internet on Traditional TV05:34 The Post-Network Era Explained08:12 Changing Audience Behaviours and Viewing Habits10:34 The Role of Technology in Viewing Experiences13:21 The Inevitability of On-Demand Viewing15:45 Netflix's Influence on Streaming Services18:14 The Australian Broadcasting Landscape20:41 Metrics of Success in a Fragmented Market25:02 Understanding Netflix's Viewing Patterns27:17 Traditional Broadcasters vs. Streaming Disruption30:59 The New Golden Age of Television33:22 Local Content Quotas in Australia37:05 The Future of Traditional Broadcasting42:50 The Evolution of Video ConsumptionIf 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.https://podcasts.apple.com/au/podcast/edan-haddock-total-talent/id1833735442 In this episode, Edan Haddock gives us an insight into the transformation of job seeking due to the Internet and technology. 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 Age03:02 The Impact of Technology on Recruitment06:03 The Human Connection in Virtual Interviews08:50 Navigating the Job Application Process11:43 The Role of AI in Recruitment14:58 Addressing Bias and Ethics in AI Hiring17:52 The Future of Recruitment: Human-Centric Approaches21:08 Strategies for Candidates and Employers23:46 The Importance of Personalisation in Applications26:52 The Balance of AI and Human Interaction29:41 Looking Ahead: The Future of Job Searches32:54 Final Thoughts and Future DirectionsIf 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.comhttps://www.ellyklein.com/blogIn 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 Dating06:05 Navigating Online Dating Pitfalls11:56 The Numbers Game: Dating as a Funnel18:03 Crafting the Perfect Dating Profile24:00 The Role of Filters in Online Dating29:55 Changing Perspectives on Dating Across Generations35:48 Strategies for Successful Online Dating41:47 Maintaining Positivity in the Dating JourneyIf 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/officialcosentinohttps://www.facebook.com/TheCosentino/https://www.tiktok.com/@thecosentinoIn 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 Illusionist04:07 The Impact of Technology on Magic07:37 The Evolution of Performance Styles12:05 Navigating Fame and Social Media17:06 Balancing Secrets and Exposure in Magic22:47 The Evolution of Magic in the Digital Age27:45 The Impact of Technology on Magic Performance31:46 The Art of Creating Wonder37:13 Leveraging Technology for Magic41:20 Advice for Aspiring MagiciansIf 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 Education03:08 The Evolution of Internet Dangers05:56 The Nature of Online Predators09:38 The Impact of Technology on Perception11:52 Harmful Platform Features for Youth14:29 Vulnerability of Young Users17:07 Age Restrictions and Social Media19:30 The Challenge of Cyberbullying23:00 Anonymity and Its Dangers25:53 The Role of Parents in Online Safety26:37 The Role of Technology in Youth Creativity27:55 Parental Guidance in Digital Spaces29:45 Strategies for Safe Technology Use31:37 Peer Pressure and Technology Access33:25 Legislation and Community Norms35:10 Positive Online Platforms for Youth38:04 Navigating Social Media Risks41:25 The Importance of Communication45:41 Grassroots Efforts for Online Safety48:07 Final Advice for Concerned ParentsIf 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 Devices02:48 Understanding Types of Attention09:20 Attention Span in the Digital Age11:00 Research Findings on Attention Over Time13:10 The Impact of Interest on Focus15:13 Switching Tasks and Focus17:44 Brain Plasticity and Adaptation21:40 Social Media and Short-Form Content23:27 Cognitive Engagement and Anxiety Levels24:12 The Impact of Short-Form Content27:07 Social Media's Influence on Mental Health30:46 Digital Interactions vs. Real-Life Relationships32:38 Strategies for Improving Focus38:38 Reassessing Attention Span ConcernsIf 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/⁠⁠

From the biggest societal shifts to our smallest everyday habits, the internet gets blamed for everything we feel has gone bad.