Rahaf Harfoush: Executive Director, Red Thread Institute of Digital Culture

A deep dive on all things digital with Rahaf Harfoush, digital anthropologist and Executive Director of Red Thread Institute of Digital Culture. 

In this episode, Rahaf explains how unprepared we are as humans for the infinite ecosystem of online information. She also gives practical tips on how to manage “infobesity” by being more intentional about the ways you engage with information. 

Rather than allow algorithms to determine your experience, Rahaf suggests analyzing your “return on attention” when you use specific platforms: deciding what you want from each and being aware of how each affects you.

She also warns against digital dependencies - using tech to regulate our nervous systems as a numbing behavior or a coping mechanism.

Rahaf talks about productivity, challenging myths perpetuated by hustle culture suggesting anything that isn’t traditionally productive is a waste of time. Using the example of video games, she explains how different experiences can be important and enriching. 

Coaching.com CEO Alex Pascal asks Rahaf what she thinks about Chat GPT, the AI chatbot that is currently making waves across industries. Rahaf describes this technology as comparable to an industrial revolution for white collar workers before going into detail about how it has the potential to both help and harm. 

To find out why Rahaf is a tech dualist, believing every innovation is both awesome and terrible, listen to this episode. You’ll also gain some great ideas on how to reach your own “information zen” state through more intentional tech engagement.