Newsletter 149: The Evolution of Content Consumption, Creation, and the Value of Personal Connection

Good Morning from Matt 'Coach' Ivey at Dyslexic AI. As I sit here with my 5 AM cup of coffee, the morning after Thanksgiving, I find myself reflecting on the recent developments in AI technology. The past week has been a whirlwind with the shuffle of ownership and board members in the OpenAI community. It's been exciting, yet eye-opening.

The Shift in Content Consumption and Creation

The digital age has brought about a rapid transition in how we consume and create content. From the days of no screens to the current era where screens are integral to our lives, the shift has been significant. The internet has become a hub for content consumption, ranging from podcasts to news, fiction, nonfiction, and reality TV. The advent of cell phones has democratized content creation, allowing anyone to create and share content in various formats.

The Music Industry: A Case Study

The music industry provides a clear example of this evolution. The transition from AM radio to FM radio, to illegal uploading and file sharing, to purchasing music on iTunes, and finally to streaming services like Spotify has significantly changed how we consume music. This evolution has also impacted how artists create content and earn money. They now earn less from their recordings, which were once their primary source of income, and more from merchandise sales and touring.

The Rise of Podcasts

The rise of podcasts mirrors the evolution of radio. Initially, podcasts were free content with little listenership or advertising revenue. However, they have now become the number one form of content, with everyone having a podcast. This shift has led to the decline of traditional talk shows and AM radio shows.

The Cyclical Nature of Trends

Trends in content consumption and creation are cyclical, much like fashion. For instance, the outsourcing of artisanal crafts led to a decline in their popularity. However, they are now regaining popularity because they are rare and exciting. Similarly, as we move towards typing everything, there will be a resurgence in the written word, calligraphy, and art.

Reflecting on AI and Personal Connection

While waiting for my kids to wake up for our family tradition of getting a Christmas tree the day after Thanksgiving, I couldn't help but ponder the future of AI and computer technology. Amidst these thoughts, I realized the value of my one-on-one time with people. My struggle with typing and online communication has made me appreciate the personal interactions I've been giving away for free.

Valuing Personal Time and Business Strategy

I've been exploring ways to run my business based on the content I create online. This approach has been fantastic, allowing me to share my thoughts and connect with thousands of like-minded individuals, not just locally, but globally. However, I now feel the need to return to my roots and truly value what I enjoy most - talking about passions, face-to-face or through one-on-one Zoom calls.

Looking Ahead

As we navigate the exciting world of AI, let's not forget the importance of personal connection. It's time to value our one-on-one interactions and use them to drive our businesses forward. Let's embrace the future, but also remember our roots.

Stay tuned for more insights and reflections. Until then, keep connecting and keep innovating.

Stay Divergent!
Matt 'Coach' Ivey at Dyslexic AI