In this lively discussion, Akilah Hughes, an author, comedian, and podcast host known for Rebel Spirit, joins a panel of internet professionals to reflect on the chaotic events of 2024. They dive into a trivia game exploring the quirky lore of the Skibbity Toilet universe and celebrate one year of podcasting with humorous retrospectives on celebrity antics. The conversation explores the intersection of pop culture and technology, touching on internet celebrity dynamics and the absurdity of AI-generated content, all while keeping the mood light and entertaining.

Georgia talks with beauty reporter and critic Jessica DeFino about the capitalistic excesses of “self-care” online; Mike talks with Today in Tabs’ Rusty Foster about logging off. Also: UNBOXING.–Take the Never Post Audience Survey!–Become a Never Post member at https://www.neverpo.st/ for access to extended and bonus segments, and our side shows like “Slow Post”, “Posts from the Field” and “Never Watch”–Call us at 651 615 5007 to leave a voice mailDrop us a voice memo via airtableOr email us at theneverpost at gmail dot comSee what interstitials we need submissions for–Intro LinksTikTok CEO meets with Trump while asking for Supreme Court to take up ban appeal – UPIHawk Tuah Haliey Welch's Crypto Team Nets £2.59M Amid Botched Token Launch, Fans File SEC Complaints – IBTimesResearchers Consider the Relationship Between Misinformation, Outrage, and the Sharing of Content on Social Media – TechPolicyOnline influencers need ‘urgent’ fact-checking training, warns Unesco – The GuardianTeens, Social Media and Technology 2024 – Pew Research–The Horrors Persist, But So Do The Little TreatsFind Jessica:jessica-defino.comThe Review of Beauty newsletterSegment Links:Audre Lorde, A Burst of Light – WorldCatStudies on retail therapy — here, here, here and here –Touching TrailFind Rusty:Rusty on BlueskyToday in TabsToday on TrailWould you pay to quit TikTok and Instagram? You’d be surprised how many would - The ConversationMost of the TikTok users (64%) and almost half of the Instagram users (48%) were prepared to pay to be off them, so long as others were off them, resulting in average valuations across all users of minus US$28 for TikTok and minus $10 for Instagram.–Never Post’s producers are Audrey Evans, Georgia Hampton and The Mysterious Dr. Firstname Lastname. Our senior producer is Hans Buetow. Our executive producer is Jason Oberholtzer. The show’s host is Mike Rugnetta.NoOne kneads us again of earth and clay,noOne conjures our dust.Noone.Praised be thou, NoOne.For your sake wewant to flower.Towardyou.Psalm, by Paul Celan Trans. Pierre JorisNever Post is a production of Charts & Leisure ★ Support this podcast ★

A group of friends explores the emotional rollercoaster of leaving social media behind. They share nostalgic tales from platforms like MySpace and Friendster, highlighting how online interactions affect personal identity. With humorous anecdotes about their transitions and serious discussions on emotional impacts, they navigate feelings of loss and guilt. The conversation evolves into reflections on the changing dynamics of friendships and the challenges of connecting in a digital age, ultimately revealing the complexities of stepping away from the virtual world.

Jon Greenaway, aka litcritguy, is a theorist and horror expert known for his work on unsettling media. He discusses the creepy allure of bizarre food videos that gained popularity during the pandemic, exploring their psychological impact and connections to online engagement. Katie Notopoulos from Business Insider reflects on the lost art of personalizing social profiles, comparing it to the whimsical MySpace days. Together, they dissect how modern social media has shifted user identity and interaction, leaving nostalgia in its wake.

Avery Dame Griff, a historian specializing in gay and trans culture, dives into the complexities of moral panics, particularly regarding the Kids Online Safety Act. The discussion reveals how societal fears about child safety in the digital space are often intertwined with anxieties surrounding queer and trans identities. Avery highlights the historical context of these panics and underscores the importance of thoughtful dialogue to create equitable online environments. Plus, insights on how tech responses to political events shape our media landscape.

The conversation reflects on the unique atmosphere of Election Day in the U.S. while the soothing sounds of rain create a calming backdrop. A rainy drive becomes a metaphor for navigating political chaos, offering listeners both introspection and a momentary escape from the tumultuous world outside. It's an engaging mix of personal thoughts and ambient sound, perfect for those needing a pause amidst the noise.

Tori Dominguez Peek, producer of "To BRB or Not To BRB," shares her insights on using AI to recreate deceased loved ones—drawing from her own experiences with grief. She navigates the emotional complexities of these digital interactions, discussing ethical concerns around identity and memory. The conversation dives deep into the authenticity of AI connections and potential therapeutic benefits, while also highlighting the emotional pitfalls of such technology in processing loss. It's an enlightening exploration of the intersection of grief and innovation.

Alice Marwick, a communications scholar and privacy expert, delves into the intricacies of online dating communities, particularly a Facebook group allowing women to vet potential partners. She discusses challenges in maintaining privacy in digital spaces and the risks of sharing personal information. Noah Hertz shares insights into David Social, a new social platform celebrating authentic connections. This platform contrasts with larger networks, emphasizing supportive community dynamics and a desire for more intimate online interactions.

We visit the funeral for CrowdTangle, a social listening app that was used by disinformation and human rights researchers. Mike talks with Dallas Taylor, host of the podcast 20k Hertz, about why podcasts sound the way they do. And also: videogame menu music!–Become a Never Post member at https://www.neverpo.st/ for access to extended and bonus segments, and our side shows like “Slow Post”, “Posts from the Field” and “Never Watch”–Call us at 651 615 5007 to leave a voice mailDrop us a voice memo via airtableOr email us at theneverpost at gmail dot comSee what interstitials we need submissions forand tell us about POSTS THAT CHANGED YOUR LIFE–Intro LinksBrazil's top court says X paid pending fines to wrong bank – ReutersMusk's X paid $5 million in fines to the wrong bank, Brazil's Supreme Court said - Business InsiderAfter weeks of drama, SF tech CEO gives workers $30,000 to quit – SFGate159 employees are leaving Automattic as CEO’s fight with WP Engine escalates – TechCrunchHow to Delete Your 23andme Data Amid the Company's Turmoil – MSNCalifornia enacts laws to protect child influencers' financial security – NBCDoNotPay has to pay $193K for falsely touting untested AI lawyer, FTC says – ArsTechnica –CrowdTangle, We Barely Knew TheeRIP CrowdtangleDavid KarpfKevin Roose’s Twitter Bot–Why Do Podcasts Sound Like That, with Dallas TaylorDallas’ LinkedIn Post - LinkedIn20k HertzDeFacto Sound–Never Post’s producers are Audrey Evans, Georgia Hampton and The Mysterious Dr. Firstname Lastname. Our senior producer is Hans Buetow. Our executive producer is Jason Oberholtzer. The show’s host is Mike Rugnetta. Having been taught by fools, how else could i have ended up but as I am? a man who panics at the sound of his own voice, a blusterer, afraid that within the five pointed maple leaf there lies another name he never knew; ready, always, to be found wrong. Excerpt of ON FIRE by Andrew FeldNever Post is a production of Charts & Leisure ★ Support this podcast ★

Ronald Young, Jr. is an audio producer and host of 'Wait For It,' while Mia Lobel has been a head of content at Pushkin Industries and writes 'Freelance Cafe.' Lauren Passell, founder of Tink Media, focuses on podcast marketing. They dive into the podcasting industry's current state, discussing challenges like audience building and financial sustainability. Insights on monetization strategies and the impact of accolades on growth are also shared. The conversation advocates for cooperation among podcasters, emphasizing the need for nuanced critiques and support.