Wealthy and Well-Known Podcast Are You Being Honest—or Just Strategic? Rethinking "Authenticity" Online
Dec 30, 2025
Dive into the tangled world of online authenticity as Rory and AJ question what it truly means to be real in a digital age. They explore the fine line between honest sharing and strategic vulnerability, uncovering how authenticity has become a buzzword. Learn their two crucial rules for sharing stories and the concept of ‘sharing scars not wounds.’ With practical tips on maintaining privacy while being transparent, this conversation challenges you to redefine your brand while fostering genuine connections.
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Why Authenticity Became A Movement
- Authenticity surged because people felt forced to curate themselves both online and offline, creating a backlash.
- Rory defines authenticity as simply "the willingness to be honest," which clarifies the buzzword.
Social Media Amplified Pretending
- AJ traces the authenticity trend to social media filters and highlight reels that magnified preexisting pretending.
- Digital cameras and edited selfies amplified surface-level portrayals and drove the demand for honesty.
Protect Private Details
- Do distinguish between private and transparent; protect confidential information and family details.
- Avoid oversharing anything that would break confidences or agreed privacy.