Follow the Rabbit

Sari Azout, founder of Sublime, delves into the intersection of AI and personal curation. She discusses transforming skepticism into curiosity and highlights how personal taste is vital in a content-saturated world. The conversation reveals AI's role as a collaborative partner in enhancing creativity while emphasizing the need for human judgment. Sari also shares insights on training AI to reflect unique perspectives and cultivating a distinctive taste amidst algorithm-driven content, reminding us that individuality can thrive even in a tech-dominated landscape.

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

Climate change isn't just transforming our cities - it's reshaping where and how we gather. In this special episode of Follow the Rabbit, we're joined by Juli Sikorska, a designer and researcher exploring how extreme heat is already reshaping our urban spaces. Through her work with the Urban Heat Studio, Juli reveals how climate adaptation isn't just about infrastructure - it's about reimagining how we live, gather, and support each other. The conversation weaves together several key themes we've explored this season - from the evolution of third places to health as a luxury - while examining how climate change might accelerate social transformation. Juli shares fascinating examples of how cities are already adapting, from the ancient wisdom of southern European urban design to emerging community cooling centers in the Pacific Northwest. We explore: How extreme heat exposes and amplifies social inequities in cities Why technical solutions alone won't be enough without stronger communities How existing spaces like supermarkets and churches might evolve into climate refuges The opportunity to rebuild social connections through shared challenges What European cities can learn from places already dealing with extreme heat The discussion reveals an unexpected silver lining: while climate adaptation poses immense challenges, it might also create opportunities to overcome the isolation of modern urban life and build more resilient communities. Chapters: 00:00 - Introduction & Welcome 01:20 - Juli's Journey to Heat Resilience Research  03:15 - Current Impact of Extreme Heat 06:07 - Urban Planning & Heat Adaptation  08:29 - From Third Places to Cooling Centers  11:34 - Community Solutions & Shared Spaces  15:21 - Rethinking Retail & Public Spaces  21:26 - Social Justice & Access to Cool Spaces  25:47 - Churches as Community Cooling Centers  28:41 - Community Building & Behavioral Change  31:14 - Opportunities in Crisis  34:00 - Urban Economics & Real Estate Challenges  37:20 - Closing Thoughts: Building Networks for the Future Photo Credits: Jana Margarete Schuler + Komptenzzentrum Kultur- und Kreativwirtschaft des Bundes Julius Falk / Urban Heat Studio Links to Juli Urban Heat Studio Juli Sikorska --------------- 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

From podcast gems to critical essays, exploring how we maintain agency in an algorithm-driven world In this special year-end episode of Follow the Rabbit, Igor and Johannes share their favorite and most thought-provoking content from 2024. From podcasts and essays to interviews and cultural criticism, they explore works that have shaped their thinking about agency, algorithmic culture, and societal change. Key highlights include: Sam Fragoso's Talk Easy podcast and its unique approach to emotional interviews The evolving role of science fiction in an era dominated by tech company predictions How complex systems impact decision-making and cognitive load Critical perspectives on broad-stroke cultural analysis and tech criticism The concept of "personalized culture scapes" and their societal impact Finding balance between algorithmic personalization and authentic community The conversation weaves together themes of individual agency, collective experience, and the challenge of maintaining perspective in an increasingly personalized digital world. It offers insights into how we might approach technology and cultural criticism more thoughtfully in 2025. Chapters:  00:00 Introduction & Overview  01:12 Talkeasy Podcast Discussion  08:23 Science Fiction & Tech Culture  14:07 Decision Making & Complex Systems  18:55 Cultural Criticism & Broad Analysis  24:16 Personalization & Cultural Landscapes  34:16 Digital Detox & Finding Balance  38:45 Closing Thoughts & Future Format Links: Talk Easy Pod: Jesse Eisenberg Josh Brolin Vinson Cunningham  Lily Gladstone Elvia Wilk and Claire L. Evans on the changing role of science fiction in the age of COVID-19 and catastrophic climate change  Odd Lots Podcast – The Theory Why Everyone Went Crazy A Brief History of Yuval Noah Harari  The Ezra Klein Show – How to discover your own taste - a conversation with Kyle Chayka Ian Bogost on Airpods in The Atlantic Denial of Future Attack Unplugging Is Not The Solution You Want  --------------- 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

How did getting enough sleep transform from a sign of laziness to the ultimate luxury status symbol? In this episode of Follow the Rabbit, Igor and Johannes explore how sleep has evolved from being seen as a weakness in hustle culture to becoming a luxury status symbol. Through examining historical shifts, technological innovations, and cultural changes, they reveal how proper rest became a marker of privilege and success. The conversation traces this evolution from Matthew Walker's influential book "Why We Sleep" to Kim Kardashian's viral sleep scores, showing how scientific research and social media have transformed our relationship with rest. They discuss how this shift has spawned a billion-dollar industry of high-end mattresses, sleep tracking devices, and luxury sleep retreats, while also examining the deeper socioeconomic implications of who gets access to quality sleep. Chapters:  00:00 Introduction & Historical Context  02:02 The Waterbed Era & Early Sleep Luxury  03:50 From Hustle Culture to Sleep Science 08:08 Technology's Role in Sleep Tracking  10:31 Sleep as Social Currency  13:24 The Luxury Sleep Industry  17:34 Hotels & Travel: The Sleep Experience  19:59 Class & Environmental Sleep Factors  22:33 The Huberman Effect & Lifestyle Changes  23:46 Orthosomnia: When Sleep Tracking Backfires  26:51 Practical Applications & Lessons  30:42 Closing Thoughts 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