The internet promised a place where people from diverse backgrounds could find connection and understanding. But has it instead become a deeply polarised medium where echo chambers and ideological extremism make meaningful connection harder than ever?

To help us understand what’s happening, we’re joined by Dr. Andres Reiljan, a political scientist at the European University Institute.

https://scholar.google.com/citations?user=uBEitnwAAAAJ&hl=en&oi=ao https://x.com/AReiljan https://www.facebook.com/andres.reiljan https://bsky.app/profile/areiljan.bsky.social

In this episode, Andres joins us to explore the complexities of polarisation in the digital age. We discuss the concept of effective polarisation, the role of algorithms in amplifying divisive sentiments, and the psychological toll of constant exposure to conflict.

We also look at the importance of finding common ground and the potential for technology to help bridge divides, while also acknowledging the challenges posed by misinformation and emotional polarisation.

00:00 The Promise and Peril of the Internet

05:04 Understanding Effective Polarisation

09:59 The Role of Algorithms in Polarisation

15:07 Factual Belief Polarisation and Misinformation

19:56 The Impact of Polarisation on Society

25:04 Finding Common Ground in a Polarised World

29:54 The Psychological Toll of Polarisation

35:03 Using Technology to Combat Polarisation

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 was supposed to empower brands to build relationships based on authenticity and shared values. But for so many of us, does it now just feel like surveillance capitalism, exploiting and manipulating our attention, leading to mass brand distrust and marketing cynicism?

Joining us today is Nick Richtsmeier, a growth consultant and Founder of CultureCraft, who works directly with business and non-profits to solve the issue of trust decay in the marketplace.

https://www.damnsgiven.com/
https://culturecraft.com/
https://www.buzzsprout.com/2365925
https://www.linkedin.com/in/nickrichtsmeier/

In this episode, Nick joins us to explore the decline of brand trust in the digital age, focusing on the impact of surveillance capitalism, the concept of enshittification, and the role of algorithms in shaping consumer perceptions. We discuss the shift towards community-based growth strategies and the importance of authenticity in marketing, while also addressing the challenges posed by large tech platforms.

We also look at the dynamics of social movements, the role of brands in societal change, the challenges of building trust in the digital age, and the importance of human connection amidst the overwhelming influence of technology and the internet.

00:00 The Internet's Impact on Brand Trust

05:03 Understanding Enshittification and Its Effects

10:05 The Role of Algorithms in Brand Perception

15:03 The Shift Towards Community and Authenticity

19:58 Navigating the Future of Business Relationships

24:43 The Ticking Clock of Social Movements

29:00 The Role of Brands in Social Change

35:09 Navigating Trust in the Digital Age

39:55 The Illusion of Internet Trust

46:58 The Human Spirit and Digital Reality

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 creating an environment of radically-decentralised authority, has the internet shattered a slow, controlled process, by turning it into a fast, volatile, and potentially permanent crisis cycle?

Joining us is Stuart Thomson, a public affairs and political engagement specialist, author, and founder of reputation management consultancy CWE Communications.

https://www.cwecommunications.com
https://publicaffairs.podbean.com/
https://www.youtube.com/@CWECommunications
https://www.amazon.co.uk/shop/redpolitics/

In this episode, Stuart joins us to discuss the evolving landscape of reputation management in the digital age. We explore how the internet has transformed the speed and nature of reputation crises, the importance of preparedness, and the ethical considerations in public relations.

We also look at the challenges posed by AI and misinformation, the dynamics of reputation laundering, and strategies for managing public perception in the face of unexpected crises.

00:00 Introduction to Reputation Management in the Digital Age

02:00 The Impact of Speed on Reputation Management

06:08 Crisis Preparedness and Response Strategies

09:50 The Power Dynamics in Reputation Management

13:59 Handling Unexpected Crises and Public Perception

18:08 The Role of Ethics in Reputation Management

22:03 The Challenges of AI and Misinformation

25:49 Reputation Laundering and Influencer Dynamics

30:00 Identifying Smear Campaigns in the Digital Space

33:02 Final Thoughts on Reputation Management Strategies

If you like what you hear, please follow the show, leave a review, or let us know what else you’d like us to lookinto at ⁠https://www.ruinedbytheinternet.com/⁠