In this monthly recap episode, Igor and Johannes reflect on cultural phenomena that caught their attention during March 2025, exploring luxury consumption, wellness trends, and the evolving nature of media consumption.From the luxury supermarket Erewhon and its influence on brand perception to the complex social implications of GLP-1 drugs and the fascinating personalization of sound through the Endel app. The hosts conclude with insights on how long-form conversations are reshaping our relationship with media consumption and knowledge formation.Key themes:How luxury food retailers like Erewhon transform shopping into status signalingThe emerging social dynamics around weight loss medicationsPersonal soundscapes as a form of positive algorithmic personalizationThe shift toward conversations as units of culture and knowledge productionHow consumer products reflect our collective search for belongingChapters:00:00 - Introduction & Monthly Format02:55 - Erewhon: The Business of Aspirational Groceries12:25 - Status Signaling & The Loneliness Connection17:45 - GLP-1 on Campus: Elle's New Column on Student Usage24:52 - Andal: Personalized Soundscapes for ADHD Focus35:24 - Conversations as Culture: The New Unit of Knowledge Formation41:05 - Video vs. Audio: Different Ways to Experience Dialogue47:51 - Long-form Conversations & Human Connection52:27 - Closing ThoughtsSuggested Links:Erewhon-related content:Vogue Business article about Erewhon: https://www.voguebusiness.com/story/consumers/the-business-of-erewhon uID=16d13b220ccb049d0b0aeccdeb34f14634765ffc5ec3b5735cbf184ebf8c07f2Touchland:Article/coverage about their growth from 16M to 100M revenue: https://www.nbcnews.com/select/shopping/touchland-hand-sanitizer-rcna197416GLP-1/Ozempic coverage:Elle magazine's new column on GLP-1 drugs: https://www.elle.com/ozempic/The specific article about "GLP-1 drugs on campus“: https://www.elle.com/beauty/health-fitness/a63787623/ozempic-secret-college-campuses-trend-explained/Endel app:Endel's official website: https://endel.io/Conversations as culture:Kayle Chayka's newsletter post about "conversations as the new unit of culture“: https://onethingnewsletter.substack.com/p/conversations-are-the-new-unit-ofJeff Staple's dinner conversation video/series: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mSpLRsQ1vsw&t=695sOther references:Information about Jellycats and blind box collectibles: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c4g34x51en8o---------------Follow the Rabbit on ⁠Spotify⁠Follow the Rabbit on ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠Follow the Rabbit on ⁠Youtube⁠Follow the Rabbit is a Known Unknowns productionKnown Unknowns on ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ Known Unknowns on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠Follow the Rabbit is hosted by Igor Schwarzmann & Johannes KleskeFind out more about ⁠⁠Igor Schwarzmann⁠⁠ Find out moire about ⁠⁠Johannes Kleske⁠⁠

Amy Daroukakis is a cultural strategist with 20 years of experience, renowned for her work on diversifying cultural insights. She discusses how trend reporting is heavily skewed towards just 10 cities, creating a limited perspective on global culture. Amy emphasizes the importance of curiosity as a professional asset in an AI-driven world. She shares fascinating stories from diverse cultures and challenges the stifling structures in creative industries. Additionally, she highlights how meaningful human storytelling can illuminate insights that algorithms often miss.

Dive into the viral curiosity of a $19 strawberry, revealing the complexities behind luxury consumption and outrage culture. Discover Japan's meticulous craftsmanship in fruit cultivation and the challenges of global logistics that make such a luxury item possible. The hosts analyze how social media fuels performative consumption and critique the intersection of sustainability and high-end markets. This discussion illuminates the absurdities of consumer behavior, framed within a larger cultural context of authenticity and digital engagement.

From cynicism to curiosity: How personal taste becomes the ultimate skill in an AI-powered worldThe topic of AI often appears deceptively binary: those who believe it will transform everything versus those who refuse to acknowledge its real-world benefits despite the hype. In this episode of Follow the Rabbit, Igor and Johannes are joined by Sari Azout, founder of Sublime, a digital curation tool, who published an essay on exactly this nuanced middle ground that caught our attention. The conversation explores how AI is transforming curation from a leisurely hobby into a crucial skill for creativity and knowledge work.Moving beyond the binary narratives of AI as either dystopian threat or techno-utopian savior, the discussion reveals how personal taste, judgment, and refined attention become increasingly valuable in a world where AI can generate abundant content but struggles with discernment. Drawing from her experience building Sublime and her essay that caught Igor and Johannes' attention, Sari offers practical insights into how she collaborates with AI as a creative partner rather than a replacement.The conversation weaves together several key themes:The evolution from initial AI skepticism to discovering its potential as a thinking companionHow personal collections of inspiration can train AI to reflect your unique perspectiveThe challenge of developing taste in an algorithm-dominated worldThe difference between automated outputs and AI-augmented human creativityThe unexpected ways AI tools can assist those with different cognitive stylesThrough specific examples and practical applications, the episode offers a nuanced view of how curation — the skill of collecting, connecting, and refining ideas — becomes the foundation for meaningful AI collaboration. It suggests that while technical skills may be automated, the ability to make aesthetic and conceptual judgments becomes increasingly valuable.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction & Binary AI Narratives07:15 - Beyond Automation: AI as Creative Partner11:13 - The Increasing Value of Taste and Curation14:39 - Practical Examples of Claude Collaboration20:13 - Attention and Focus in Digital Environments29:23 - The Missing Storytelling from AI Leaders34:05 - Developing Taste in an Algorithmic World39:56 - Accessibility and Diverse Thinking Styles43:13 - Breaking Free of Algorithmic ProgrammingLinks:Sublime (Beta signup link): https://sublime.app/invite/0xnw0jSrSari on Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/saraazout/Sari on Substack: https://sublimeinternet.substack.com/Sari Azout's essay on taste in the age of AI: https://sariazout.substack.com/p/the-art-of-curation-in-the-age-ofFinite and Infinite Games by James P. Carse: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finite_and_Infinite_GamesWhy Anthropic’s Claude Is a Hit with Tech Insiders - The New York Times: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/12/13/technology/claude-ai-anthropic.html This episode offers a refreshing perspective that moves beyond both techno-optimism and techno-pessimism, suggesting instead that the most valuable human contribution in the AI era might be our unique ability to curate, judge, and refine — skills that require us to resist algorithmic programming and cultivate our own distinct taste.---------------Follow the Rabbit on ⁠Spotify⁠Follow the Rabbit on ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠Follow the Rabbit on ⁠Youtube⁠Follow the Rabbit is a Known Unknowns productionKnown Unknowns on ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ Known Unknowns on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠Follow the Rabbit is hosted by Igor Schwarzmann & Johannes KleskeFind out more about ⁠⁠Igor Schwarzmann⁠⁠ Find out moire about ⁠⁠Johannes Kleske⁠⁠

Dive into the intriguing overlaps between scripted wrestling and real-world politics, revealing how they shape public discourse. Explore the rise of 'soft clubbing,' where young people prioritize mindful social interactions in relaxed music settings post-pandemic. Discover the evolution of Wired magazine under new leadership, shifting towards investigative journalism and critical insights on tech figures. This captivating discussion uncovers the cultural patterns that reflect deeper truths about our contemporary society.

The Subculture is dead. Long live the Subculture. Or … does it? What is it even these days? How does Instagram (and other platforms) play a role in this and of course what is even authentic these days?In this episode of Follow the Rabbit, Igor and Johannes are joined by Jack Stanley, a writer and creative strategist whose research explores how subcultures evolve in our hyper-connected world. Moving beyond the tired question of whether "subcultures are dead," the conversation examines how digital platforms have fundamentally altered the way communities form, express themselves, and maintain authenticity.The discussion weaves together several key themes that reveal the tension between connection and fragmentation in contemporary culture: How the relationship between online and offline participation has inverted since the MySpace (you heard it right!) era Why emerging third places like reading clubs and chess gatherings reflect a desire for physical community The shift from committed subcultural identity to "micro-identities" curated through social media The economics of modern subcultures as both grassroots movements and commercial opportunities How the frictionless access to cultural content has changed our relationship with discovery and commitmentDrawing on Jack's research into bootleg hardcore merchandise and straightedge communities, the episode offers a nuanced look at how authenticity functions when everything is accessible to everyone. The conversation moves beyond nostalgia to examine what might be gained and lost as subcultures continue to evolve in an era where identity is increasingly fluid and commodified.Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction to Subcultures Today 04:25 - Internet's Evolution: From MySpace to Instagram 12:28 - The Economics of Modern Subcultural Spaces 20:49 - Brands, Merch, and Cultural Capital 32:08 - Identity and Commitment in Digital Culture 44:04 - The Challenge of Authenticity 52:01 - Closing ThoughtsLinks: Jack Stanley’s newsletter ‘Heavy Weather’ about brands and the way they work: http://heavyweather.substack.com/  Jack Stanley's essay ‘Subcultural Diffusion vs Subcultural Capital’: https://open.substack.com/pub/heavyweather/p/subcultural-diffusion-vs-subcultural  Are Subcultures Dead? – Proteinhttps://www.protein.xyz/are-subcultures-dead/ Sarah Thornton's work on subcultural capital: https://www.wiley.com/en-us/Club+Cultures%3A+Music%2C+Media+and+Subcultural+Capital-p-9780745668802  J. Patrick Williams' research on straightedge communities: https://journals.sagepub.com/doi/10.1177/0891241605285100  Life after Lifestyle by Toby Shorin:https://subpixel.space/entries/life-after-lifestyle/ Ezra Klein episode with Kyle Chayka:https://www.nytimes.com/2024/01/09/opinion/ezra-klein-podcast-kyle-chayka.html This episode offers a thoughtful exploration of how we form identity and community in a world where both are increasingly fragmented, providing valuable insights for brands, creators, and anyone interested in understanding how culture forms and evolves today.---------------Follow the Rabbit on ⁠Spotify⁠Follow the Rabbit on ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠Follow the Rabbit on ⁠Youtube⁠Follow the Rabbit is a Known Unknowns productionKnown Unknowns on ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ Known Unknowns on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠Follow the Rabbit is hosted by Igor Schwarzmann & Johannes KleskeFind out more about ⁠⁠Igor Schwarzmann⁠⁠ Find out moire about ⁠⁠Johannes Kleske⁠⁠

Axel Quack, an AI expert immersed in European policy, sheds light on the landscape of AI in Europe. The conversation dives into the EU's ambitious €200 billion AI investment plan and its implications for the competitiveness of smaller businesses. They discuss the significant disconnect between large-scale initiatives and the challenges SMBs face in implementing AI due to regulatory complexities. Quack offers practical strategies for leveraging open source AI solutions, emphasizing a more distributed and sovereignty-focused approach to tech adoption in Europe.

Axel Quack, an expert in AI-driven product development, shares his insights on the democratization of AI technology. He discusses how open-source models like DeepSeek empower smaller organizations by offering data control and independence. The conversation touches on Europe's unique opportunity to adopt privacy-focused AI approaches, contrasting with trends in the US and China. Axel emphasizes hands-on experimentation to improve AI literacy and encourages businesses to explore local solutions for greater accessibility and customization.

From Trump's mastery of attention to fashion's new masculinity, exploring January's most thought-provoking cultural signals In this episode, Igor and Johannes kick off 2025 with a new monthly format exploring the media and cultural phenomena that captured their attention. They dive into two key topics that set the tone for the year ahead: First, they examine Chris Hayes and Ezra Klein's conversation about the attention economy and its implications for politics, drawing parallels between U.S. and German political landscapes. The discussion reveals how attention, rather than traditional metrics like fundraising, increasingly shapes political outcomes and cultural discourse. Second, they explore the role of curiosity and informed naivety through the lens of ERL, a Venice Beach fashion brand that offers an alternative approach to masculine aesthetics. This leads to broader reflections on meta-modernism and ways to engage with complex cultural topics beyond pure cynicism or oversimplification. The episode concludes with updates on GLP-1 medications, exploring new research about natural alternatives and emerging evidence about their effects on addiction, bringing fresh perspective to themes from previous seasons. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction & New Format 02:14 - Attention Economy in Politics 14:45 - ERL & Meta-modernist Approaches 29:22 - GLP-1 Updates & Natural Alternatives 44:51 - Closing Thoughts Links: Podcast episode with Ezra Klein and Chris Hayes: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/17/opinion/ezra-klein-podcast-chris-hayes.html  Erl Website: https://erl.store/ Systems Magazine interview with Erl founder Eli Russel Linnetz: https://system-magazine.com/issues/issue-18/erl-eli-russell-linnetz-interview-andrew-bolton Dr. Michael Greger on restoring our natural GLP-1 satiety circuit with fiber (video): https://nutritionfacts.org/video/a-plant-based-diet-for-weight-loss-boosting-glp-1-and-restoring-our-natural-satiety-circuit/ OZEMPIC: Risks, Benefits, and Natural Alternatives to GLP-1 Weight-Loss Drugs (book) by Michael Greger: https://nutritionfacts.org/book/ozempic/ Weight Loss Drugs for Curing Addiction? Podcast episode with Chris Hayes and Nicholas Reville: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/weight-loss-drugs-for-curing-addiction-with-nicholas/id1382983397?i=1000683904777 This episode marks a shift to a new monthly format where Igor and Johannes will reflect on the articles, conversations, and cultural phenomena that shaped their thinking. The discussion weaves together themes of attention economics, cultural aesthetics, and health trends while maintaining the show's focus on helping listeners update their mental models of how the world is changing. Follow the Rabbit on ⁠Spotify⁠ Follow the Rabbit on ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ Follow the Rabbit on ⁠Youtube⁠ Follow the Rabbit is a Known Unknowns production Known Unknowns on ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠  Known Unknowns on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Follow the Rabbit is hosted by Igor Schwarzmann & Johannes Kleske Find out more about ⁠⁠Igor Schwarzmann⁠⁠  Find out moire about ⁠⁠Johannes Kleske⁠⁠

Welcome to the multiverse, where every present contains new futures In this special year-end episode of Follow the Rabbit, Igor and Johannes are joined by Simone Rebaudengo to explore new ways of thinking about futures and presents. As a creative director who "builds products and tools for a less boring future," Simone introduces his concept of the "future burrito" as an alternative to traditional future cones, suggesting we need to expand our understanding of the present rather than just projecting into the future. The conversation weaves together several key themes: How accelerating technology and AI are compressing our sense of future timelines Why traditional futurism methods may need updating for our current moment The value of exploring parallel presents rather than just imagining distant futures How design can maintain critical perspectives while working within industry The challenge of maintaining distinct viewpoints without becoming reductive Moving from science fiction to multiverse narratives, the discussion reveals how our cultural imagination is shifting from linear future projections to exploring parallel possibilities. Through examining changes in design, technology, and cultural narratives, the episode offers fresh perspectives on how we might imagine and shape possible futures while staying grounded in an increasingly complex present. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction & Future Burritos 02:02 - Simone's Background and Design Evolution 05:03 - From Future Cones to Present Complexity 07:17 - Multiple Presents: Lessons from China 09:55 - The Loss of Future Interest 12:55 - Rise of Multiverse Thinking 14:18 - The Future Burrito Concept 16:53 - Navigating Present Complexity 21:27 - From “What If” to “What Else” 24:36 - The ChatGPT Moment and Acceleration 27:34 - Design Fiction and Parallel Presents 29:57 - Challenging the Status Quo 34:48 - Reclaiming Point of View in Design 38:38 - Small Changes vs Grand Visions 41:14 - The Infinite Space of Imagination 42:13 - Closing Thoughts and Thanks This final episode of 2024 provides a thoughtful exploration of how we might reimagine futures and presents as we move into the new year. Links to Simone: oio on Instagram --------------- Follow the Rabbit on ⁠Spotify⁠ Follow the Rabbit on ⁠Apple Podcasts⁠ Follow the Rabbit on ⁠Youtube⁠ Follow the Rabbit is a Known Unknowns production Known Unknowns on ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠  Known Unknowns on ⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠ Follow the Rabbit is hosted by Igor Schwarzmann & Johannes Kleske Find out more about ⁠⁠Igor Schwarzmann⁠⁠  Find out moire about ⁠⁠Johannes Kleske⁠⁠