Links I Would Gchat You If We Were Friends

This Substack explores digital culture, internet phenomena, and the impact of technology on daily life, emphasizing themes like privacy, grief, social media trends, AI, wellness culture, consumerism, and personal narratives. It critically reflects on changes in internet use, the commodification of personal life, and the evolving landscape of online interaction.

Digital Culture and Internet Phenomena Technology and Society Mental Health and Wellness AI and Automation Social Media Trends and Impacts Consumer Culture Personal Narratives and Storytelling Internet and Technology Critique Public Health and Misinformation Media and Content Consumption

The hottest Substack posts of Links I Would Gchat You If We Were Friends

And their main takeaways

How to safeguard your sanity in the last days of the election

99 implied HN points • 30 Oct 20
🎭️ Culture Internet culture Politics Social media Pop culture Social Issues
  1. Consider taking breaks from social media to preserve your mental well-being, try focusing on positive distractions like creating Pinterest boards filled with puppies.
  2. Avoid election stress by engaging in activities that help you relax and stay away from constant polling updates and online political debates.
  3. Remember the importance of voting to contribute towards a sense of normalcy and to have a say in the future, regardless of the chaos around.

If you can't stand the heat

79 implied HN points • 19 Mar 21
🕹 Technology Social media Online behavior
  1. Maintaining large Facebook groups can be challenging and may lead to chaos as seen with the New York Times' 77,000-person 'Cooking Community.'
  2. Online communities, even around popular brands like Peloton, can face difficulties in moderation and dealing with internal factions.
  3. Mainstream brands may reconsider their involvement in online platforms due to the challenges faced in building and managing communities, especially if financial benefits are not clear.

The politicization of Peloton

99 implied HN points • 16 Oct 20
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Culture Policies Identity Social Issues Activism
  1. Peloton's culture has become politicized, sparking debates among users and instructors.
  2. Peloton represents a microcosm of America, reflecting social issues and political tensions within its user base.
  3. The company walks a thin line by adopting progressive policies while trying to maintain an image of neutrality, leading to conflicts among its users.

The seven circles of Clubhouse hell

79 implied HN points • 05 Mar 21
🎭️ Culture Social media Influencers Podcasts Internet Trends NFTs
  1. The author discusses their experience and thoughts on the social media platform Clubhouse, highlighting conflicting opinions and their decision to finally join.
  2. The post includes intriguing content recommendations, such as a profile of a YouTube star and an article on the impact of COVID-19 on sign language.
  3. There are additional sections promoting different podcasts, articles, and music, which provide a range of interesting reads and listens.
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My favorite reads from the plague year

79 implied HN points • 31 Dec 20
🎭️ Culture Internet Social media Memes Music Drama
  1. The post recommends various interesting reads from the plague year, spanning topics like TikTok, Instagram, internet drama, and unique internet trends.
  2. It expresses gratitude to readers for their support and highlights the essence of the newsletter in curating engaging internet content.
  3. The post also touches on crazy internet phenomena like wolf-kink erotica, right-wing conspiracies, and provides insights into the evolving internet culture and how people utilize the internet now.

If that sounds cool and fun to you

59 implied HN points • 16 Apr 21
🎭️ Culture Social media Influencers Consumerism Globalization
  1. The market for faux-liquor or non-alcoholic beverages is vast, with products like Töst, Seedlip, Lyre's, and others being marketed mainly on Instagram.
  2. Many products fall under the 'Instagram brands' category, characterized by minimalist branding, direct-to-consumer models, and high price points, appealing to a specific demographic.
  3. There is a trend on Instagram towards products with aspirational consumerism, wellness themes, and pastel branding, often aimed at the 30-something middle-class demographic.

The less sense it makes, the more attractive it becomes

59 implied HN points • 12 Mar 21
🎭️ Culture Social media Digital Culture Internet Trends Influencer Culture Pop culture
  1. The more nonsensical something is, the more appealing it can be, like with AI romance and internet trends
  2. There are detailed Wikipedia debates about Joe Biden's dogs, questioning their notability and training methods
  3. The rise of NFTs and other unconventional trends shows how the less sense something makes, the more ironic and attractive it becomes in popular culture

The secret life of 🐕

59 implied HN points • 12 Feb 21
🕹 Technology Social media Emoji Internet culture Digital Content
  1. Emojis have hidden textual meanings that prompt automatic suggestions on devices, leading to unexpected pairings like 'dog' suggesting the Chinese takeout container emoji.
  2. Extraneous keywords are associated with emojis, vary by platform, and can reflect the community's usage behaviors.
  3. Social media platforms can suggest emojis based on keywords, and the review process for these pairings may not always catch unintended or offensive connections.

DM me for orders

59 implied HN points • 05 Feb 21
🎭️ Culture Social media Economy Trends Internet culture
  1. Many individuals, particularly women, have ventured into direct-to-consumer businesses on Instagram to navigate economic uncertainty during the pandemic.
  2. These Instagram shops offer a direct-to-consumer model, bypassing middlemen and conducting transactions through platforms like Cash App or Venmo.
  3. The rise of small online businesses during the pandemic reflects a mix of creative side hustles and potential income protection strategies in response to economic challenges.

Wishful thinking

59 implied HN points • 11 Dec 20
🎭️ Culture Internet Social media Trends Pop culture Youth culture
  1. The trend of 'shifting' to alternate realities has gained popularity among teenagers, offering an escape from the challenges of the current times.
  2. Shifting involves a belief in transporting one's consciousness to a different, controllable environment, often inspired by Harry Potter and filled with desired experiences.
  3. Many individuals engage in shifting practices as a means to cope with the restrictions and difficulties of 2020, seeking solace and excitement through this imaginative practice.

Welcome to the season of socialized nostalgia

59 implied HN points • 04 Dec 20
🎭️ Culture Nostalgia Tech Companies Social media Online Communities Internet culture
  1. 2020 has been different, leading tech companies to change approaches to the usual holiday season nostalgia content.
  2. Revisiting past memories through social media platforms during the pandemic-induced trauma can feel unsettling and jarring.
  3. YouTube's decision to skip its annual year-end rewind reflects a shift in how we remember and commemorate this unique year.

The fault in Google's stars

59 implied HN points • 25 Nov 20
🕹 Technology Search Engine SEO AI Data Analysis
  1. Google's star ratings for recipes in search results don't reflect the actual quality of the recipes, and sites can manipulate these ratings for more traffic.
  2. Recipe sites often rely on rich snippets and Google star ratings to attract clicks, leading to a lack of consistency and standardization in the ratings.
  3. Simply Recipes stood out with unusually high average ratings, raising suspicions about the authenticity of the ratings across popular food publications.

Checking in with the real housewives of QAmom

39 implied HN points • 13 Nov 20
🎭️ Culture Social media Influencers Conspiracy Theories Internet culture Media Analysis
  1. Instagram influencers may unknowingly promote QAnon conspiracy theories by using hashtags and catchphrases associated with it.
  2. Some QAnon adherents are doubting their beliefs after the election while others are intensifying their commitment, as seen through platforms like Parler.
  3. The future behavior of Instagram influencers who mix lifestyle content with QAnon messaging will be intriguing to watch post-election.

Now we’re losing the plot

39 implied HN points • 09 Oct 20
🎭️ Culture Gender Entertainment Social Issues Media Literature
  1. Pence's comments on female leaders and motherhood show backward gender stereotypes in 2020
  2. The portrayal of women without children in media as monsters or threats is discussed in relation to current events
  3. The newsletter highlights various interesting articles, from a profile of Ina Garten to discussions on internet culture and societal issues

The saddest place on the internet

19 implied HN points • 23 Oct 20
📰 News Internet Social media Philanthropy Media Online Culture
  1. Twitter sweepstakes organized by Bill Pulte have taken a darker turn during the pandemic, evoking stories of desperation and hardship from participants.
  2. The phenomenon of @pulte, with 3.1 million followers, reveals a tragic trend of people reaching out online for financial help, reflecting a dire situation.
  3. Despite some positive transactions, many followers appeal directly to Pulte, raising questions about the overall impact and sincerity of the assistance provided.

Chasin' the lulz

0 implied HN points • 03 Nov 16
🕹 Technology Social media Fake news
  1. The Internet has made it easier for people to lose touch with reality by overwhelming us with information, causing us to gravitate towards what confirms our beliefs.
  2. During the Trump/Clinton election, it seemed like everyone became trolls, focusing on humor that was mean-spirited and cynical.
  3. People are flocking to remote areas they see on Instagram, causing issues for those places and sometimes displaying disrespectful behavior.

You’re going to have to gaslight this man.

0 implied HN points • 17 Apr 20
🕹 Technology Social media E-commerce Data Privacy Online Communities
  1. We are constantly manipulated by websites using various tactics like 'dark patterns' to steer our actions.
  2. Some websites are adapting their designs to actually encourage positive behavior, like Instagram showing inspiring photos and Amazon discouraging needless shopping.
  3. The pandemic is accelerating the shift towards online shopping, potentially leading to more gig work and changing market dynamics.

Oh man, I miss 2011

0 implied HN points • 08 May 20
🎭️ Culture Movies Literature Books Internet Social media
  1. The author reflects on the current world situation, expressing interest in more dystopian stories that mirror the present fears and explore different responses.
  2. The text includes useful links for wellbeing apps, supporting shuttered clubs, and a source of joy on Twitter related to bookcase credibility.
  3. Book and movie recommendations such as 'Minority Report' and 'Station Eleven' are made for those interested in exploring themes of technology and personal legacies.

Is this the future we want, you guys?!

0 implied HN points • 27 Oct 16
🕹 Technology Social media Silicon Valley Internet Art
  1. The pre-Internet history of social media was kinder and better, with no commercial mandates or indexes.
  2. Research shows people are becoming less satisfied with dating apps, raising questions about the fault lying in ourselves, phones, or stars.
  3. Silicon Valley is disrupting various aspects of life, including food with innovations like DNA-based meal planning.

Exceeds prior peaks of cringe

0 implied HN points • 03 Dec 21
🎭️ Culture Internet Technology Celebrities Social media Media
  1. This post discusses interesting articles on topics like creator burnout, mind reading technology, and the evolution of MLMs.
  2. A Twitter user tracks California fires, showcasing the unique world of Fire Twitter and Scanner Twitter.
  3. The post also includes a reflection on the history and significance of screenshots as artifacts of our digital lives.

Why now?

0 implied HN points • 01 Jul 22
🇺🇸 U.S. Politics Social media Congress Far-right Trans rights
  1. The toxic mass delusion known as 'Q' has resurfaced and is causing concerning impacts in society, including misinformation and seditious behavior.
  2. Various interesting articles have been shared, covering topics like transphobia, period trackers, ADHD communities, neuroscience breakthroughs, and underground party scenes.
  3. In the tech and media world, worker-owned platforms, unique internet content, diaspora community accounts, and the impact of online platforms on society are discussed.

Is 2020 over yet?

0 implied HN points • 05 Jun 20
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Media Internet Activism Social media
  1. People and brands posting black squares on social media faced criticism for making it about themselves rather than the cause. It's important to question if online actions complement offline efforts for social justice.
  2. The internet's translation challenge in providing COVID-19 information in multiple languages is a significant issue affecting over half of the world's population.
  3. Venezuelans turning to selling Runescape currency for income showcases an interesting shift to a virtual economy during real-world economic challenges.

And yet … here I am, hustling on Substack

0 implied HN points • 01 Aug 20
🎭️ Culture Internet Media Social Issues Pop culture Entertainment
  1. The "hustle economy" has emerged during the pandemic, leading people to sell various services online like classes, podcasts, and newsletters.
  2. With the rise of streaming services like Netflix, the concept of what makes a "blockbuster" has evolved, blurring traditional definitions of popular culture.
  3. MSCHF, known for creating viral products, represents a throwback to a whimsical internet era, despite operating in a more commercialized current landscape.

The news ain't all bad

0 implied HN points • 05 Aug 20
🎭️ Culture Social Issues Music Internet culture Entertainment Food & Drink
  1. TikTok has faced issues of Black appropriation, and creators utilize the platform for social causes like climate change and racism education.
  2. Cottagecore is a trending aesthetic embraced by Taylor Swift, covered by different sources in relation to music and fashion.
  3. Ed Yong's latest article delves into the failures of America during the Covid-19 pandemic.

Mentally I am here

0 implied HN points • 28 Aug 20
🎭️ Culture Internet Media Politics Social Issues Entertainment
  1. QAnon has transitioned from an odd internet phenomenon to mainstream politics and culture.
  2. There are thought-provoking articles and profiles to explore, from personal interviews to explorations of evolving cities.
  3. The newsletter features a variety of interesting topics, from the racial undertones in reaction videos to the black market for white sage.

The 'magic formula' still eludes us

0 implied HN points • 28 Jan 22
🎭️ Culture Music Apps Predictions Entertainment Social media
  1. Predicting hit songs is a complex challenge that algorithms struggle with, even with large datasets and advanced models.
  2. A 'magic formula' to accurately predict the success of music hasn't been discovered yet, despite efforts by researchers and data scientists. Popularity is influenced by numerous unpredictable factors.
  3. Even with advances in AI and machine learning, the ability to forecast the popularity of music remains elusive, showcasing the complexity of human preferences and cultural influences.

The case of the disappearing plants

0 implied HN points • 13 Aug 22
💼 Business E-commerce Marketplace Technology Finance Social media
  1. Etsy sellers faced challenges when their plant listings were mysteriously disappearing, highlighting the platform's content algorithm issues and fee increases.
  2. Despite Etsy's increased competition and challenges for sellers, the average monthly sales per active seller on the platform may not yield significant income.
  3. The incident with disappearing plant listings serves as a reminder for Etsy sellers to diversify and consider using other platforms to secure their livelihoods.

Screenshots from the apocalypse

0 implied HN points • 11 Jun 23
🎭️ Culture TV Internet Media Technology Environment
  1. People are posting screenshots of air quality apps, finding some sense of control in the color-coded air quality indexes that provide a false sense of order during times of pollution.
  2. Streaming services went from being cheap and convenient to becoming expensive, signaling a change akin to how Uber and Instacart evolved.
  3. Personality tests are often considered nonsense, such as the Myers-Briggs created by individuals with no psychological training.

Internecine internet drama

0 implied HN points • 04 Feb 22
🎭️ Culture Internet Social media Labor Rights Music Literature
  1. The aftermath of r/antiwork on Reddit showcased a shift in sentiments towards work, leading to a restructuring of the subreddit with new factions emerging.
  2. Various new subreddits like r/WorkReform and r/WorkersStrikeBack have gained significant traction advocating for workers' rights and strikes.
  3. There is a rise in niche micro-aesthetics across music, design, and fashion, with subcultures like 'bellhopcore' and 'avant apocalypse' shaping trends.

The sweltering heat of the discourse

0 implied HN points • 18 Feb 22
🎭️ Culture Technology Finance Music Crypto Humor
  1. The post talks about interesting articles such as a failed Bitcoin laundering attempt and a vibe shift article on The Cut.
  2. It mentions a story about bionic eyes becoming obsolete, leaving 350 blind people without support.
  3. The additional highlights include a variety of topics like fake song lyrics on Spotify, the elusive quint Axel in figure skating, and a crypto divorce story.

¿Por qué no?

0 implied HN points • 05 Nov 22
🎭️ Culture Languages Social media Internet culture True Crime Influencers
  1. Many Duolingo users are spending hours cheating just to earn points and climb leaderboards, leading to concerns about misuse and lack of real learning.
  2. The gamification features in Duolingo incentivize users to cheat and farm XP, with some even spending money on premium subscriptions and in-app purchases.
  3. Duolingo seems to be taking action against cheating tactics, but these actions align with its goal of boosting revenue and engagement, raising questions about the effectiveness of the platform for language learning.

Not-so-obvious

0 implied HN points • 25 Feb 22
🎭️ Culture Internet culture Pop culture Social media Science Entertainment
  1. Hank the Tank, a 500-pound bear, is breaking into homes near Lake Tahoe for snacks, gaining fame and support from people.
  2. Potato controversies, like Mr. Potato Head losing the 'Mr.' title, show how common sense can clash with scientific explanations, sparking debates.
  3. Fun science facts, like monkeys in Japan preferring salty sweet potatoes or evidence that knives made from frozen feces don't work, highlight the importance of funding research for interesting discoveries.

Turns out the internet is real life after all

0 implied HN points • 04 Mar 22
🕹 Technology Social media Internet culture Algorithm Digital Content E-commerce
  1. TikTok's recommendation algorithm and user engagement lead to content that is titillating and participatory, influencing the way users consume information.
  2. The increase in social media users has led to a higher volume of content being created and shared, impacting how information and narratives spread, especially in times of conflict.
  3. The perception of social media has shifted significantly over the years, with mainstream media now acknowledging the importance of the social media narrative in shaping public opinion and influencing beliefs.

In praise of the internet's house parties

0 implied HN points • 19 Nov 22
🎭️ Culture Social media Internet culture Online Communities Influencers
  1. Mastodon is a social media platform that offers a different experience from Twitter, focusing on small community interactions and lack of performance pressure.
  2. Twitter and Mastodon have distinct differences in their approach to user engagement, with Mastodon being more about community and less about chasing popularity.
  3. The internet landscape is evolving, with trends like declining social media usage and changes in online media consumption, signaling a shift towards new platforms and content styles.