#realm of digital marketing

[dcdigitalcanada]

Stay Competitive: Top Trends in Local Search and How to Adapt

Maintaining your edge in the often shifting realm of digital marketing requires constant awareness of the newest innovations, especially in local search. Search engines have been changing to provide more accurate, customized, and quick results as customers depend more on digital platforms to find local companies. Businesses must modify their local SEO tactics to be visible and relevant from changes in AI integration to privacy upgrades.

With an emphasis on how companies may use the most recent trends in local search services and the fascinating new developments in Digital Marketing in Canada, particularly, this blog will investigate how to maximize the online presence of businesses. Already implementing these strategies to let companies flourish in the cutthroat internet environment are companies like Digital Cappuccino Canada.

1. Changes to Google Business Profile

Originally Google My Business, Google Business Profile (GBP) is still a vital tool for local companies trying to improve their internet presence. Google has made several notable changes over the last year that companies should know about:

Google Business Messages: Google is ending this tool meant to enable direct customer-business contact. Although companies could have depended on this product for customer support, Google seems to be turning attention to fresh approaches to interaction.

Review Management: Google has simplified its review tools so that company owners may read and reply straight from their profiles more easily. This shift emphasizes the need to aggressively control your online profile by engaging with consumers.

Businesses in Canada must remain informed and seize new capabilities as Google keeps altering its Google Business Profile to benefit them. Digital Cappuccino Canada guides companies across these changes to raise their local search results.

2. Increased focus on data collecting and privacy

In the realm of digital marketing, data privacy has taken the front stage and Google is not an exception. Particularly with location tracking, Google has lately implemented many adjustments meant to lower the personal data collecting volume from users.

Location History: Google has moved to monitor location history using mobile devices instead of desktop computers. They have also promised to automatically delete previously gathered location data.

For Canadian digital marketing, this change implies companies must give mobile optimisation top priority more than ever. Companies that are mobile-friendly will have more possibility of appearing higher in local search results as Google depends on mobile devices to ascertain location-based results. Already assisting companies throughout Canada to adopt mobile-friendly solutions to keep ahead of this trend is Digital Cappuccino Canada.

3. Local Search's Rising Impact from AI

Local search and digital marketing are finding greater relevance for artificial intelligence (AI). Already altering the way search results are presented are Google's AI-powered tools including Bard and Google's AI summaries.

AI-Powered Summaries:: AI-generated summaries are becoming frequent in search results, which lets consumers quickly access relevant material. But this evolution makes it more difficult for companies to get better search results and highlighted snippets.

Optimizing material for AI-driven search engines has become the first concern for Canadian companies. Digital Cappuccino Canada focuses on producing material that not only satisfies AI criteria but also interacts with human readers, hence keeping your company competitive.

4. Apple Maps' Rising Profile

Apple Maps is fast gaining ground even while Google Maps has long been the main participant in the local search business. Companies now have to make sure they are listed and optimized on both platforms as more Apple Map users turn to the tool for navigation.

Apple Maps Listings: Although it's a fast procedure, setting up and keeping your Apple Maps listing will pay off greatly as the platform becomes more and more used. To seize this growing market, ensure the location, hours of operation, and contact information of your company are correct.

Including Apple Maps in your local search plan can help companies increase their iOS device exposure and reach. Digital Cappuccino Canada provides help maximizing company listings on all major systems, including Google Maps and Apple Maps.

5. Conversational Voice Search Enhancement

Voice search is growing in popularity as more consumers find local businesses using Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri.  For companies ready to maximise their material for conversational searches, this trend offers a big potential.

Voice Search Content: Businesses who want to show up in voice search results have to provide natural, conversational, and straightforward responses to frequently asked enquiries. Clear, succinct responses and long-tail keywords can help you more likely to be seen in voice search results.

Digital Cappuccino Canada guarantees that their material is best for both text and voice search enquiries by helping companies modify their SEO plans to fit for voice search.

6. Local Service Ads' Constant Expanding Growth

Paid adverts shown at the top of local search results are called local service ads (LSAs). These advertisements are a great strategy for generating traffic and conversions as they let companies highlight services, price, and client reviews from within the search results.

Enhanced Visibility: LSAs provide companies a chance to increase their exposure outside of depending only on natural SEO. Companies may position their adverts in front of local customers who are instantly looking for services by bidding on relevant keywords.

More companies in Canada are using Local Service Ads as part of their digital marketing plan; Digital Cappuccino Canada can assist to set up and oversee successful LSA campaigns producing results.

Conclusion: Staying Ahead in Local Search

Local search patterns are always changing, and companies have to keep on top of these developments if they are to remain competitive. From Google Business Profile improvements and AI developments to Apple Maps and voice search, companies now have many fresh chances to improve their local presence.

Working with a top digital marketing firm in Canada can help you to maximize these trends and keep a competitive advantage. Digital Cappuccino Canada has a long record of assisting companies in improving their online presence, local SEO, and consumer base growth.

Contact Digital Cappuccino Canada now if you're ready to expand your local search approach and allow our professionals lead you over the fascinating new developments in digital marketing.

FAQs

1. What is Local search digital marketing? 

Digital marketers maximize the internet visibility of a company for local search results so potential customers can come across it. Examples include local content, Apple Maps listings, and Google Business Profile optimisation.

2. How may artificial intelligence influence local search?

Through more relevant and tailored suggestions based on user activity and location, artificial intelligence may improve local search results. AI-powered search engines and automated summaries might affect the information that is shown, therefore challenging companies' ability to rank with optimal content.

3. How may local service ads (LSAs) help companies?

Paid local service advertising shows the most on search results. Companies should show their offerings in search results including reviews, prices, and services to increase visibility, traffic, and potential customers looking for certain offerings.

4. Why is optimizing voice searches crucial?

More consumers use Amazon Alexa, Google Assistant, and Siri to find local companies, so voice search optimisation is really important. By offering conversational, natural-sounding material for voice searches, companies may appeal to more individuals.

5. For business visibility, how does Apple Maps do vs Google Maps?

Local search has long been dominated by Google Maps, but Apple Maps is becoming more and more well-known, particularly among iOS users. Listing and optimizing your business on two networks increases your audience.

6. Can I maintain my company ahead of local search trends?List your business on key sites like Apple Maps, keep your Google Business Profile current, maximize your website for AI and voice search, and employ Local Service Ads to keep ahead in local search trends. Work with digital marketing company Digital Cappuccino Canada for best execution.

[androplaystore]

Virtual reality and augmented reality are in use by Multiple companies Already. However, they are offering new opportunities in terms of user experience. The Best example of virtual reality is that it allows users Interaction with products in real time, while augmented reality offers interactive experiences for customers. Both technologies have gained popularity among marketers due to their benefits in engaging and retaining users.

Click Here

[digitamizer]

Retail Revolution: E-Commerce Unleashing the Power of the Internet

[kenresearch1]

Future Outlook of UK Metaverse Market: Ken Research

Buy Now

What is the market Size of UK Metaverse Industry?

UK Metaverse market is growing at a double digit CAGR in 2017-2022 and is expected to reach USD ~ Bn by 2028.

The UK Metaverse Market is largely driven by One of the significant growth drivers of the metaverse market is the increasing demand for immersive and interactive virtual experiences across various industries, including gaming, entertainment, education, and commerce.

UK Metaverse Market is at a growing stage. It is a fragmented market with the presence of many metaverse companies. The market has seen emergence of abundant players in the past 5 years and the industry will further boost owing to the needs and wants of consumers for a more customized virtual reality platform.

Few major UK Metaverse players are Lilith Games, Roblox Corporation., Tencent Holdings, Byte Dance., Nvidia Corporation. Europe continues to dominate the UK Metaverse market. Depending on technology, the virtual reality and augmented reality segment dominated the metaverse market share in 2020, and is expected to continue this trend during the forecast period, owing to growing demand for virtual reality (VR) / augmented reality (AR) based services.

An increase in awareness and lifestyle changes is the fundamental driver of metaverse market growth. Customers are more likely to remain loyal when their needs are customized.

Interested to Know More about this Report, Request for a sample report

UK Metaverse Market segmentation by component

The UK Metaverse market is segmented by component into Software, Hardware and Professional Services. Software was the dominant form.

UK Metaverse Market segmentation by vertical

The UK Metaverse market is segmented by vertical into Consumer, Commercial, Industrial Manufacturing, Healthcare and Others. Consumer was the most dominant in 2022.

UK Metaverse Market by Region

The UK Metaverse market is segmented by region into England, Wales, Northern Ireland, Scotland and other Regions. England is the most dominant market.

Competition Scenario in UK metaverse Market

The UK metaverse market is fragmented. The report covers the major players operating in the United Kingdom virtual reality market. Some of the prominent players in the industry are Lilith Games, Roblox Corporation., Tencent Holdings, Byte Dance., Nvidia Corporation. Competition in the metaverse is intensifying as more companies enter the market, offering a variety of virtual reality, augmented reality, and extended reality experiences. Established tech giants, startups, and gaming companies are vying to capture a significant share of the growing metaverse industry, leading to innovative developments and unique offerings to attract users.

What is the Expected Future Outlook for the Overall UK metaverse Market?

The UK Metaverse market was valued at USD ~ billion in 2022 and is anticipated to exceed USD ~ billion 2028, witnessing a robust CAGR during the forecast period 2022-2028. The realistic growth scenario represents the most likely scenario as per current market conditions. This scenario assumes that there will be no overall impact on the market due to any potential COVID-19 waves in the future.

The UK Metaverse market is driven by demand for rising disposable income in developing economies. The continuous advancements in virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), and extended reality (XR) technologies are fueling the development and adoption of metaverse platforms, creating new opportunities for businesses and users alike.

The government has set forth ambitious strategies to leverage digital technologies extensively in enhancing its services, processes, and decision-making capabilities. Rise in Demand in the media and entertainment, gaming and adjacent markets like virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR), mixed reality (MR), and digitalization in the fashion, retail, and art industries are the main factors for the metaverse industry growth.

The concept of sustainable packaging is proving to be a highly beneficial investment and a responsible choice for the environment when it comes to reality platforms. With the rising awareness regarding the environmental impact of virtual assets and digital content within the metaverse, there is a growing push for new policies and measures that hold businesses accountable for sustainable practices and responsible management of virtual resources.

AI and cognitive learning technologies have started to play a decisive role and are poised to be game-changers in several avenues.

During the forecast period of 2022-2028, it is anticipated that the UK Metaverse market will grow at a massive CAGR by 2028. Growing concerns about virtual avatar health and excessive virtual consumption habits are prompting various governments to adopt plain packaging strategies for metaverse products. By implementing plain packaging regulations, authorities aim to raise awareness about digital well-being and encourage responsible virtual choices among users within the metaverse.

Visit this Link :- Request for custom report

Market Maxomony

By component

Software

Hardware

Professional Services

By vertical

Consumer

Commercial

Industrial Manufacturing

Healthcare

Others

By Region

England

Wales

Northern Ireland

Scotland

Other Regions

Major UK Metaverse Market Players

Lilith Games

Roblox Corporation

Tencent Holdings Ltd.

Byte Dance

NetEase

Facebook Inc

Time Period Captured

Historical Period – 2017-2022

Base Period – 2022

Forecast Period – 2022 –2028

For More Insights On Market Intelligence, Refer to the Link Below: –

UK Metaverse Market Outlook to 2028

Related Reports by Ken Research: –

US Metaverse Market Outlook to 2028

[sexymemecoin]

The Emergence of NFTs: Transforming Digital Ownership and Creativity

Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs) have revolutionized the way we think about digital ownership, art, and collectibles. By leveraging blockchain technology, NFTs provide a way to create, buy, sell, and own unique digital assets with verifiable provenance and scarcity. This article explores the world of NFTs, their impact on various industries, key benefits and challenges, and notable projects, including a brief mention of Sexy Meme Coin.

What Are NFTs?

NFTs, or Non-Fungible Tokens, are unique digital assets that represent ownership of a specific item or piece of content, such as art, music, videos, virtual real estate, and more. Unlike cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin or Ethereum, which are fungible and can be exchanged on a one-to-one basis, NFTs are indivisible and unique. Each NFT is recorded on a blockchain, ensuring transparency, security, and verifiability of ownership.

The Rise of NFTs

NFTs gained mainstream attention in 2021 when digital artist Beeple sold an NFT artwork for $69 million at Christie's auction house. This landmark event highlighted the potential of NFTs to transform the art world by providing artists with new revenue streams and collectors with verifiable digital ownership.

Since then, NFTs have exploded in popularity, with various industries exploring their potential applications. From gaming and music to real estate and fashion, NFTs are creating new opportunities for creators, businesses, and investors.

Key Benefits of NFTs

Digital Ownership: NFTs provide a way to establish true digital ownership of assets. Each NFT is unique and can be traced back to its original creator, ensuring authenticity and provenance. This is particularly valuable in the art and collectibles market, where forgery and fraud are significant concerns.

Monetization for Creators: NFTs enable creators to monetize their digital content directly. Artists, musicians, and other content creators can sell their work as NFTs, earning revenue without relying on intermediaries. Additionally, smart contracts can be programmed to provide creators with royalties each time their NFT is resold, ensuring ongoing income.

Interoperability: NFTs can be used across different platforms and ecosystems, allowing for interoperability in the digital world. For example, NFTs representing in-game items can be traded or used across multiple games and virtual worlds, enhancing their utility and value.

Scarcity and Collectibility: NFTs introduce scarcity into the digital realm by creating limited editions or one-of-a-kind items. This scarcity drives the collectibility of NFTs, similar to physical collectibles like rare coins or trading cards.

Challenges Facing NFTs

Environmental Impact: The creation and trading of NFTs, especially on energy-intensive blockchains like Ethereum, have raised concerns about their environmental impact. Efforts are being made to develop more sustainable blockchain solutions, such as Ethereum's transition to a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism.

Market Volatility: The NFT market is highly speculative and can be volatile. Prices for NFTs can fluctuate significantly based on trends, demand, and market sentiment. This volatility poses risks for both creators and investors.

Intellectual Property Issues: NFTs can raise complex intellectual property issues, particularly when it comes to verifying the rightful owner or creator of the digital content. Ensuring that NFTs are legally compliant and respect intellectual property rights is crucial.

Access and Inclusivity: The high costs associated with minting and purchasing NFTs can limit accessibility for some creators and collectors. Reducing these barriers is essential for fostering a more inclusive NFT ecosystem.

Notable NFT Projects

CryptoPunks: CryptoPunks are one of the earliest and most iconic NFT projects. Created by Larva Labs, CryptoPunks are 10,000 unique 24x24 pixel art characters that have become highly sought-after collectibles.

Bored Ape Yacht Club: Bored Ape Yacht Club (BAYC) is a popular NFT collection featuring 10,000 unique hand-drawn ape avatars. Owners of these NFTs gain access to exclusive events and benefits, creating a strong community around the project.

Decentraland: Decentraland is a virtual world where users can buy, sell, and develop virtual real estate as NFTs. This platform allows for the creation of virtual experiences, games, and social spaces, showcasing the potential of NFTs in the metaverse.

NBA Top Shot: NBA Top Shot is a platform that allows users to buy, sell, and trade officially licensed NBA collectible highlights. These video clips, known as "moments," are sold as NFTs and have become popular among sports fans and collectors.

Sexy Meme Coin (SXYM): Sexy Meme Coin integrates NFTs into its platform, offering a decentralized marketplace where users can buy, sell, and trade memes as NFTs. This unique approach combines humor and finance, adding a distinct flavor to the NFT landscape. Learn more about Sexy Meme Coin at Sexy Meme Coin.

The Future of NFTs

The future of NFTs is bright, with continuous innovation and expanding use cases. As technology advances and more industries explore the potential of NFTs, we can expect to see new applications and opportunities emerge. From virtual fashion and digital identities to decentralized finance (DeFi) and beyond, NFTs are poised to reshape various aspects of our digital lives.

Efforts to address environmental concerns, improve accessibility, and ensure legal compliance will be crucial for the sustainable growth of the NFT ecosystem. Collaboration between creators, platforms, and regulators will help build a more robust and inclusive market.

Conclusion

NFTs have ushered in a new era of digital ownership, creativity, and innovation. By providing verifiable ownership and provenance, NFTs are transforming industries ranging from art and entertainment to gaming and virtual real estate. While challenges remain, the potential benefits of NFTs and their ability to empower creators and engage communities make them a significant force in the digital economy.

For those interested in the playful and innovative side of the NFT market, Sexy Meme Coin offers a unique and entertaining platform. Visit Sexy Meme Coin to explore this exciting project and join the community.

[vintagerpg]

This is CyBORG (2022), Stockholm Kartel’s cyberpunk remix of MÖRK BORG and goddamn.

When MÖRK BORG dropped, I was like, this is some super aggressive, brightly colored graphic design and illustration. Just totally eye-shocking. Nothing’s gonna top this. And yet. If you’re a fan of punk or metal or other musical styles interested in speed, you’ll be familiar with a curious phenomenon: what sounds blisteringly fast now, in a few years, will become strangely mid-tempo when compared to the new contemporary tremolo. Same thing here. Looking through CyBORG, Johan Nohr’s art and design for MÖRK BORG suddenly seems evenhanded and levelheaded. CyBORG, meanwhile, sees Nohr absolutely shred. The brights are brighter, the blacks blacker, the fucked uppedness more fuck-ed upp-ed. The introduction of urban design elements and glitchy visual references to the digital world add new levels of grime and grit to scrape through. Truly, I can think of no better visual encapsulation of cyberpunk’s rage as page after page of this book.

The game is, of course, a hack of MÖRK BORG, adhering to those light, D&D-ish systems to provide a fast and easy way to enact your wrath-filled cyberpunk fantasies. There are many tables. There are nanotechnologies and infestations and drugs to feed into your hacker/nanomancer/killer/gear head. There are many corporations to channel your rage at and the world here seems somewhat more firmly realized than in the dying realm of MB. The game is frantically anti-capitalist, which I enjoy enormously (also, I saw someone complaining that if the creators are so anti-capitalist, then why are they charging money for their book; to that ding-dong I say: hur-hur, get fucked, capitalism=/=commerce).

Anyway, I think there is lots of room for different sorts of cyberpunk themed games in this golden age of ours, but that said, I do think the sharp aesthetic plus the sleek and easy systems of CyBORG are going to take up a lot of market share.

[ezekiel-krishna]

Your Planet and Careers (Vedic Astrology)💼

The 10th house in Vedic Astrology is known as the Karma Bhava. This celestial abode holds the key to one's career, profession, reputation, and public image. Now let's uncover the profound impact that planets residing in the 10th house can have on an individual's career path and their potential for success in the professional realm.

Sun (Surya)

When the Sun graces the 10th house, it signifies qualities of leadership, ambition, and a strong drive for success. Those with this placement may find success in government roles, politics, administration, management, or any field that demands authority and visibility.

Moon (Chandra)

The Moon in the 10th house suggests a career in nurturing, caregiving, or public service. Individuals with this placement may excel in professions like nursing, social work, psychology, or any occupation involving interaction with the public.

Mars (Mangala)

Mars in the 10th house indicates a competitive and determined nature, making individuals suitable for careers in sports, military, law enforcement, engineering, or entrepreneurship. They may thrive in dynamic environments that require quick action and initiative.

Mercury (Budha)

Individuals with Mercury in the 10th house possess strong communication skills, analytical abilities, and a flair for intellectual pursuits. This placement can lead to success in fields such as writing, journalism, teaching, public speaking, or any profession that involves critical thinking and problem-solving.

Jupiter (Guru)

Jupiter's presence in the 10th house is considered auspicious for career growth and success. Those with this placement may excel in areas like education, law, finance, spirituality, or advisory roles. They may also find success in positions of authority and leadership

Venus (Shukra)

Those with Venus in the 10th house may find themselves drawn to careers in the arts, fashion, or beauty industries. They could excel in fields like modeling, music, or event planning, showcasing their creativity and aesthetic sense.

Saturn (Shani)

Saturn in the 10th house signifies a strong work ethic and a disciplined approach to career goals. Individuals with this placement may thrive in professions that demand patience and long-term planning, such as engineering, government roles, or business management.

Rahu or Ketu (North Node / South Node)

When Rahu or Ketu are positioned in the 10th house, individuals may face unexpected twists and turns in their professional journey. They might need to navigate through unconventional career paths and industries, adapting to challenges and changes along the way.

it can bring a sense of unpredictability and sudden changes in one's career path. Individuals with this placement may have unconventional career choices and may find themselves drawn to unique or innovative fields. Rahu in the 10th house can indicate a strong desire for recognition, fame, and success, leading individuals towards careers in media, entertainment, technology, or research. However, it can also bring challenges related to deception, illusion, and unexpected twists in one's professional life.

You may find success in careers that involve innovation, technology, and creativity. Suitable career paths may include:

Technology: Fields such as IT, software development, cybersecurity, and digital marketing where creativity and innovation are valued.

Media and Entertainment: Careers in film, television, advertising, social media, or content creation that require a flair for creativity and a desire for recognition.

Entrepreneurship: Starting a business in a cutting-edge industry or launching a startup that offers innovative solutions to existing problems.

Research and Exploration: Pursuing a career in scientific research, space exploration, or cutting-edge technologies that push the boundaries of knowledge.

Occult Sciences: Delving into astrology, metaphysics, or other mystical practices that tap into hidden knowledge and unconventional wisdom.

Ketu [South Node]

Spiritual Guidance: Becoming a spiritual leader, counselor, or teacher who helps others on their spiritual journey and inner growth.

Alternative Healing: Practicing holistic therapies, energy healing, or alternative medicine to promote physical, emotional, and spiritual well-being.

Meditation and Yoga: Teaching meditation, yoga, mindfulness practices, or leading retreats that focus on inner peace and self-discovery.

Charity and Nonprofit Work: Engaging in humanitarian efforts, social work, or volunteering for causes that align with one's values and principles.

Psychology and Counseling: Pursuing a career in psychology, therapy, or counseling to support individuals in their emotional healing and personal growth.

Overall, the placement of Rahu or Ketu in the 10th house can bring both opportunities and challenges in one's career journey. By embracing the unique qualities and lessons associated with these lunar nodes, individuals can navigate their professional paths with resilience, adaptability, and a willingness to explore uncharted territories in pursuit of their true calling.

Remember This is a General Analysis , Whole Chart is to be consider for Accurate Personalized Predictions.

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[calliope-stories]

Help Us Market Our Stories!

Calliope catapults your imagination with written stories introduced by vibrant —and interactive— animations. In our app, these interactive animations act as portals that submerge readers into written stories. We love reading, but reading today is tricky. At Calliope we’re passionate about enchanting readers away from visually striking apps (like Instagram) and back into the realm of the imagination.  

We’re a small company founded by two nerdy Venezuelan girls looking for people who share our zeal for reading, and who want to create a world where reading is colorful, vibrant, and immersive for everyone.  

What we’re looking for: 

- Experience with social media and digital marketing.

- Seasoned experience in orchestrating paid campaigns on Instagram and TikTok (—and Tumblr).

- A flair for creating dazzling content (no need to be a graphic designer or videographer, but a good taste and an appetite for learning are essential).

- The skill to grasp and embody our brand tone, understand our audience inside out, and devise enchanting content.

- Proficiency in SEO and data analytics.

- A balance of independent initiative and teamwork.

- Agile adaptability, attentiveness to feedback, and the capacity to grow from constructive critiques.

- Proactive problem-solving and execution.

- Near native written English.

Your Role:

- Developing inventive social media strategies to amplify visibility and subscriptions.

- Designing content that’s both captivating and relevant to our audience.

- Spearheading advertising campaigns on social media.

- Analyzing and reporting the successes and lessons of campaigns and strategies.

- Staying on the cutting edge of social media trends, particularly in our niche.

What We Offer:

- We value your thirst for learning and involvement more than your past experience.

- A 100% remote work setup: your performance matters, not your location.

- A goal-oriented work environment: manage your time and enjoy flexibility.

- A unique opportunity to grow with us and lead the marketing team as we expand the project.

- Competitive pay with prospective salary growth and bonuses as the company thrives.

How to Apply

If you’re eager to make reading vibrant and fun, we’d love to hear from you. To apply, please send the following to contact@calliopeinteractive.com.

A resume; 

A portfolio of your previous social media or digital content creation work; 

A brief cover letter explaining what attracted you to Calliope; 

And two sentences describing three Instagram or TikTok posts that you would make for Calliope.  

If you’re interested in learning more, please check out our app in the Google Play Store and Apple App Store; and our social media: Instagram & TikTok

[sunshinesmebdy]

Pluto in Aquarius: Brace for a Business Revolution (and How to Ride the Wave)

The Aquarian Revolution

Get ready, entrepreneurs and financiers, because a seismic shift is coming. Pluto, the planet of transformation and upheaval, has just entered the progressive sign of Aquarius, marking the beginning of a 20-year period that will reshape the very fabric of business and finance. Buckle up, for this is not just a ripple – it's a tsunami of change. Imagine a future where collaboration trumps competition, sustainability dictates success, and technology liberates rather than isolates. Aquarius, the sign of innovation and humanitarianism, envisions just that. Expect to see:

Rise of social impact businesses

Profits won't be the sole motive anymore. Companies driven by ethical practices, environmental consciousness, and social good will gain traction. Aquarius is intrinsically linked to collective well-being and social justice. Under its influence, individuals will value purpose-driven ventures that address crucial societal issues. Pluto urges us to connect with our deeper selves and find meaning beyond material gains. This motivates individuals to pursue ventures that resonate with their personal values and make a difference in the world.

Examples of Social Impact Businesses

Sustainable energy companies: Focused on creating renewable energy solutions while empowering local communities.

Fair-trade businesses: Ensuring ethical practices and fair wages for producers, often in developing countries.

Social impact ventures: Addressing issues like poverty, education, and healthcare through innovative, community-driven approaches.

B corporations: Certified businesses that meet rigorous social and environmental standards, balancing profit with purpose.

Navigating the Pluto in Aquarius Landscape

Align your business with social impact: Analyze your core values and find ways to integrate them into your business model.

Invest in sustainable practices: Prioritize environmental and social responsibility throughout your operations.

Empower your employees: Foster a collaborative environment where everyone feels valued and contributes to the social impact mission.

Build strong community partnerships: Collaborate with organizations and communities that share your goals for positive change.

Embrace innovation and technology: Utilize technology to scale your impact and reach a wider audience.

Pluto in Aquarius presents a thrilling opportunity to redefine the purpose of business, moving beyond shareholder value and towards societal well-being. By aligning with the Aquarian spirit of innovation and collective action, social impact businesses can thrive in this transformative era, leaving a lasting legacy of positive change in the world.

Tech-driven disruption

AI, automation, and blockchain will revolutionize industries, from finance to healthcare. Be ready to adapt or risk getting left behind. Expect a focus on developing Artificial Intelligence with ethical considerations and a humanitarian heart, tackling issues like healthcare, climate change, and poverty alleviation. Immersive technologies will blur the lines between the physical and digital realms, transforming education, communication, and entertainment. Automation will reshape the job market, but also create opportunities for new, human-centered roles focused on creativity, innovation, and social impact.

Examples of Tech-Driven Disruption:

Decentralized social media platforms: User-owned networks fueled by blockchain technology, prioritizing privacy and community over corporate profits.

AI-powered healthcare solutions: Personalized medicine, virtual assistants for diagnostics, and AI-driven drug discovery.

VR/AR for education and training: Immersive learning experiences that transport students to different corners of the world or historical periods.

Automation with a human touch: Collaborative robots assisting in tasks while freeing up human potential for creative and leadership roles.

Navigating the Technological Tsunami:

Stay informed and adaptable: Embrace lifelong learning and upskilling to stay relevant in the evolving tech landscape.

Support ethical and sustainable tech: Choose tech products and services aligned with your values and prioritize privacy and social responsibility.

Focus on your human advantage: Cultivate creativity, critical thinking, and emotional intelligence to thrive in a world increasingly reliant on technology.

Advocate for responsible AI development: Join the conversation about ethical AI guidelines and ensure technology serves humanity's best interests.

Connect with your community: Collaborate with others to harness technology for positive change and address the potential challenges that come with rapid technological advancements.

Pluto in Aquarius represents a critical juncture in our relationship with technology. By embracing its disruptive potential and focusing on ethical development and collective benefit, we can unlock a future where technology empowers humanity and creates a more equitable and sustainable world. Remember, the choice is ours – will we be swept away by the technological tsunami or ride its wave towards a brighter future?

Decentralization and democratization

Power structures will shift, with employees demanding more autonomy and consumers seeking ownership through blockchain-based solutions. Traditional institutions, corporations, and even governments will face challenges as power shifts towards distributed networks and grassroots movements. Individuals will demand active involvement in decision-making processes, leading to increased transparency and accountability in all spheres. Property and resources will be seen as shared assets, managed sustainably and equitably within communities. This transition won't be without its bumps. We'll need to adapt existing legal frameworks, address digital divides, and foster collaboration to ensure everyone benefits from decentralization.

Examples of Decentralization and Democratization

Decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs): Self-governing online communities managing shared resources and projects through blockchain technology.

Community-owned renewable energy initiatives: Local cooperatives generating and distributing clean energy, empowering communities and reducing reliance on centralized grids.

Participatory budgeting platforms: Citizens directly allocate local government funds, ensuring public resources are used in line with community needs.

Decentralized finance (DeFi): Peer-to-peer lending and borrowing platforms, bypassing traditional banks and offering greater financial autonomy for individuals.

Harnessing the Power of the Tide:

Embrace collaborative models: Participate in co-ops, community projects, and initiatives that empower collective ownership and decision-making.

Support ethical technology: Advocate for blockchain platforms and applications that prioritize user privacy, security, and equitable access.

Develop your tech skills: Learn about blockchain, cryptocurrencies, and other decentralized technologies to navigate the future landscape.

Engage in your community: Participate in local decision-making processes, champion sustainable solutions, and build solidarity with others.

Stay informed and adaptable: Embrace lifelong learning and critical thinking to navigate the evolving social and economic landscape.

Pluto in Aquarius presents a unique opportunity to reimagine power structures, ownership models, and how we interact with each other. By embracing decentralization and democratization, we can create a future where individuals and communities thrive, fostering a more equitable and sustainable world for all. Remember, the power lies within our collective hands – let's use it wisely to shape a brighter future built on shared ownership, collaboration, and empowered communities.

Focus on collective prosperity

Universal basic income, resource sharing, and collaborative economic models may gain momentum. Aquarius prioritizes the good of the collective, advocating for equitable distribution of resources and opportunities. Expect a rise in social safety nets, universal basic income initiatives, and policies aimed at closing the wealth gap. Environmental health is intrinsically linked to collective prosperity. We'll see a focus on sustainable practices, green economies, and resource sharing to ensure a thriving planet for generations to come. Communities will come together to address social challenges like poverty, homelessness, and healthcare disparities, recognizing that individual success is interwoven with collective well-being. Collaborative consumption, resource sharing, and community-owned assets will gain traction, challenging traditional notions of ownership and fostering a sense of shared abundance.

Examples of Collective Prosperity in Action

Community-owned renewable energy projects: Sharing the benefits of clean energy production within communities, democratizing access and fostering environmental sustainability.

Cooperatives and worker-owned businesses: Sharing profits and decision-making within companies, leading to greater employee satisfaction and productivity.

Universal basic income initiatives: Providing individuals with a basic safety net, enabling them to pursue their passions and contribute to society in meaningful ways.

Resource sharing platforms: Platforms like carsharing or tool libraries minimizing individual ownership and maximizing resource utilization, fostering a sense of interconnectedness.

Navigating the Shift

Support social impact businesses: Choose businesses that prioritize ethical practices, environmental sustainability, and positive social impact.

Contribute to your community: Volunteer your time, skills, and resources to address local challenges and empower others.

Embrace collaboration: Seek opportunities to work together with others to create solutions for shared problems.

Redefine your own path to prosperity: Focus on activities that bring you personal fulfillment and contribute to the collective good.

Advocate for systemic change: Support policies and initiatives that promote social justice, environmental protection, and equitable distribution of resources.

Pluto in Aquarius offers a unique opportunity to reshape our definition of prosperity and build a future where everyone thrives. By embracing collective well-being, collaboration, and sustainable practices, we can create a world where abundance flows freely, enriching not just individuals, but the entire fabric of society. Remember, true prosperity lies not in what we hoard, but in what we share, and by working together, we can cultivate a future where everyone has the opportunity to flourish.

[csuitebitches]

Random reading recommendation 1 (find this under my pinned post, under “reading”)

https://www.imf.org/-/media/Files/Publications/SDN/2024/English/SDNEA2024001.ashx

International Monetary Fund - Gen-AI: Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Work PDF.

ABSTRACT: Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to reshape the global economy, especially in the realm of labor markets. Advanced economies will experience the benefits and pitfalls of AI sooner than emerging market and developing economies, largely because their employment structure is focused on cognitive- intensive roles. There are some consistent patterns concerning AI exposure: women and college-educated individuals are more exposed but also better poised to reap AI benefits, and older workers are potentially less able to adapt to the new technology. Labor income inequality may increase if the complementarity between AI and high-income workers is strong, and capital returns will increase wealth inequality. However, if productivity gains are sufficiently large, income levels could surge for most workers. In this evolving landscape, advanced economies and more developed emerging market economies need to focus on upgrading regulatory frameworks and supporting labor reallocation while safeguarding those adversely affected. Emerging market and developing economies should prioritize the development of digital infrastructure and digital skills.

[thegildedbee]

Family/Laugh: May 12 & 13 Prompts from @calaisreno

The exterior nowheres that Sherlock inhabits can be charted by his footfalls as he wends his way through the precincts of temporary cities. The silent drift of assimilating interior nowheres, however, seems to leave no traces, even as he feels unseen changes taking hold. His suspension in the January North of a darkness that persists until late morning, and then quickly returns in the afternoon, intensifies his perception that he lives in a shadow-world, a lone dark figure extracted from the frozen rain that curtains his days. 

The patterns he seeks to capture as he hunts amidst the ones and zeros of cyberspace are likewise intangible – extended solitary vigils as his fingers command the keyboard to winnow through the tangle of codes – as well as tangible, of meetings with the technological mix of people here at Tallinn’s crossroads: software developers seeking the leading edge at corporate labs, security experts at NATO’s Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence, the underground hackers who traverse the landscape of the digital realm’s hollow earth. Both the intangible and the tangible are intense efforts to spy glimpses of Moriarty’s covert presence in the spaces between the ones and zeros, summoning up the networks and nodes of the intersecting spheres of finance, and energy, and communications, as made manifest in trafficking, and counterfeiting, and hijacking, across the physical and human worlds.

He’s accumulated an abundance of leads, some he’s near-certain he understands, and others he’s yet to decipher – but it’s enough to reveal to him his next move on the chessboard: St. Petersburg. He’ll take the train from Tallinn, without needing to step out for border control, which is handled en route. He’ll be leaving Estonia under a new identity; he hopes to keep Lukas Sigerson in his back pocket for later uses, but it’s time to make his presence difficult to trace: it's time to step away from Mycroft’s grid. He’s left seemingly inadvertent clues to allow Mycrofts’s people to (think that they’re) following him, along a pathway that connects the nefarious doings of Mexican cartels involved in establishing meth labs in Nigeria for the Asian market. Their pursuit of him will be turned to good account in dismantling that nexus, even when they realize he is elsewhere. 

St. Petersburg is a hive of hacking activity, the physical site of the infamous Russian Business Network, which catered to the needs of cyber criminals. It’s not surprising that it is the city where Vladimir Putin lived, received his education, and joined the KGB, as an agent in its foreign intelligence wing, before tunneling his way to Moscow. Sherlock doesn’t believe that there are many degrees of separation between Moriarty and the dark internet of Putin’s hellscape. 

He arrives at the end of Tallinn’s usefulness on a Friday evening. As he packs up his kit in the office space he’s made homebase through a courtesy loan in deference to his Norwegian technology credentials, some of the younger workers have swept him up into their murmurating flock as they celebrate the coming weekend in search of alcohol, bar food, and music. In London, Sherlock would have begged off such a request, were anyone intrepid enough to suggest it, and he would have been unperturbed at whatever anyone might think. But he’s not Sherlock, he’s Lukas, at least for a short while longer, and although his persona is reserved, businesslike and uninclined to make small talk, Lukas possesses an average quantity of affability; and remaining unobtrusive is best accomplished by being amidst the motions of others, rather than making himself conspicuous by setting himself off from the norms of sociality. 

He did not, however, anticipate the karaoke session, which is putting a severe strain on the bonhomie he is channeling to Lukas, as it’s clear that he’s going to need to accede to accepting a turn in the spotlight, lest he put a damper on the good spirits of his companions. He nevertheless protests with a smile, holding out his hands, but any input he might have been able to exert on the decision-making disappears, when two of his impromptu friends conspire to tug him toward the microphone, explaining that all three of them will venture forth together, with a song they insist is dead simple to sing, and that the well-lubricated crowd will be delighted to join in with them in belting out the familiar refrain. Which is how he finds himself being carried along within a punchy, melodic stream that turns out to be excruciating emotionally, as the verses unfurl. He listlessly despairs, marooned, a hollowed-out laugh echoing inside his head in response.

. . . When I'm lonely, well, I know I'm gonna be I'm gonna be the man who's lonely without you And when I'm dreamin', well, I know I'm gonna dream I'm gonna dream about the time when I'm with you. When I go out (when I go out), well, I know I'm gonna be I'm gonna be the man who goes along with you And when I come home (when I come home), I know I'm gonna be I'm gonna be the man who comes back home with you I'm gonna be the man who's comin' home with you . . .

He’s exasperated at the universe conspiring to keep him unsettled, to deny him the solace of alone protecting him. He fears that he is fated to have any social contact whatsoever somehow conjure home and reminders of John. The song ends to raucous cheers, and the enthusiasm surges on, and he’s being importuned to name a new song of his own choice before being allowed to return to the table. He looks at the smiling faces helplessly, immobilized by the churning cacophony playing hide-and-seek inside his guts, incapable of conjuring up the simplest of answers. Undeterred, they jolly him along, prompting him to think of a film he’s recently seen, or club he’s been to, or a favorite television show. At the latter suggestion, his mind does slightly slip free, and there is John again, teasing Sherlock into watching another of his favorite shows, Sherlock pretending to be annoyed at being consigned to such a fate. He turns to the young people, and raises his voice to speak into the nearest person’s ear to be heard over the noisy crowd, and says with a question in his voice, Peaky Blinders? He seems to have pleased them, as they fiddle around to pull the selection, bouncing in high spirits and punching their fists into the air, as the music starts, a bell ringing out, and the slithering deep tones speaking of the edge of town, of secrets in the border fires, of a gathering storm -- and a tall handsome man, in a dusty black coat, with a red right hand. 

As Sherlock listens to the song unspool, his mind wanders back to the show's themes, reminding him of a line of thought he’d been considering the last few days – that to focus singularly on Moriarty and faceless confederates is not quite the right way to conceptualize the dead man's web: that there must have also been family members in leading positions, positions of trust. One of the deep divides between himself and Mycroft originated in Sherlock’s refusal in uni to agree to work for SIS. Mycroft knew that he would never be able to trust completely any of the professionals who worked for him – after all they are spies working for money. To be sure, he wanted Sherlock to sign on to be able to appropriate his intelligence, but even more compelling was the fact that never having to question the loyalty of a brother would have made him an asset par excellence. Mycroft considers getting what he wants to be an inviolable law of the universe, and Sherlock doesn't think his brother will ever be able to truly forgive him for the rejection . . . especially given Sherlock's devotion to the inferior endeavors of dedicating himself to a life of metropolitan crime-solving. Family; family is what matters. A Moriarty is gone; but there are other Moriarties yet to be unearthed. ........................................................ @calaisreno @totallysilvergirl @friday411 @peanitbear @original-welovethebeekeeper @helloliriels @a-victorian-girl @keirgreeneyes @starrla89 @naefelldaurk

@topsyturvy-turtely @lisbeth-kk @raina-at @jobooksncoffee @meetinginsamarra @solarmama-plantsareneat @bluebellofbakerstreet @dragonnan @safedistancefrombeingsmart @jolieblack

@msladysmith @ninasnakie @riversong912 @dapetty

.............................................................................

[aquaticptato]

I had a dream last night that is an actual plausible theory and I want to put it here so I can look back at it when the show either proves or disproves it.

First off, in the dream, Jax was one of the workers for C&A who knew about the circus's development. Maybe he was a programmer, or a random intern, who knows.

Now, Gooseworx said that Jax is going to do something "unforgivable" later in the show. Many people are speculating that he's gonna make someone abstract, aka kill them. But I had a thought- maybe he's not going to do it, but he's already done it and we'll see in a flashback or lore drop? Maybe... he's the one who got volunteers to try out the Circus? Maybe he was the "marketing team," so to speak, who convinced people to come try out this new VR and led them to their doom, even maybe KNOWING what would happen?

Gooseworx also said Jax is the newest member of the circus (besides Pomni, of course) and that he had the worst reaction out of everyone when he realized he was trapped in there.

I think maybe someone at C&A forced the headset onto Jax and trapped him there after something went really wrong, like the project needing to be hidden. A "No witnesses" situation, where the 22-year-old guy whose job was literally to tell people about it was too much of a loose end. Of course, if he was already in the know about the project, he'd instantly know he was f@#$&d, since Goose revealed that the circus members do remember their lives, just not their names.

(I think Pomni then found the headset years later after it was hidden and put it on at the computer we see in Episode 1, which is how this theory is still continuity-compliant. It's also why the headset itself looks old.)

Now, one more thing: I don't think anyone in the circus can escape. I think they're actually trapped forever. And Jax knew this, too, hence his freakout upon arrival.

Why?

Well, another thing Gooseworx posted was a list of warnings about the show. One of them was "corpse portrayal."

Additionally, when answering an ask about whether the show was going to have any major blood/gore, they said: "do decaying dried out corpses count?"

(YES, GOOSE, THEY DO.)

And I'm pretty sure we're all thinking the same thing.

Those corpses are the bodies of the circus members.

Entering the Amazing Digital Circus transfers a person's mind and consciousness into the digital realm. How could a body survive that? Be real here!

So, Pomni is dead. Jax is dead. Zooble and Gangle and Ragatha and Kinger and Kaufmo and Queenie and all the others whose names we don't know - they're all dead and decaying.

Which means, how can their consciousnesses escape the computer when they don't have a body to go back to?

And if putting on the headset really is a death sentence, then hoooo boy... Getting people to put it on even when you know they're doomed would be a pretty unforgivable thing to do, eh?

So, to summarize:

-Everyone in the circus is DEAD.

-Jax is the one responsible for everyone (except Pomni) being stuck in the Circus and therefore dying.

-We're going to see their bodies. They probably all got thrown in a cellar somewhere by C&A to hide the evidence. A fitting parallel to the Abstraction Cellar.

I sure hope I'm wrong, but I can't find any evidence against this so far.

Thank you for coming to my TED talk.

-Aqua🌊

Edit: Corrected the part about where Goose mentioned the corpses and got a screenshot, which I shall put here:

[lamplightstudios]

Beneath the Mirror Tree

Summary

Far below the fae realm lies the realm of the goblins. A place of broken glass, devoid of food and light. Mushroom forests dot the horizon while creatures tunnel above to a world they do not belong. When a fae princess and an eternal vampire fall into the goblin realm, they will need to rely on each other to survive. But no one escapes the goblin realm. Not without a price.

Beneath the Mirror Tree will be posted once a month with early release available on Patreon. The story will be available digitally through Itch.io and upon completion, will be bound for purchase.

About the Authors

Both Zinnia and Poppy are two friends that have been writing together for close to four years. Beneath the Mirror Tree is one of the many stories they have co created together. Zinnia is also the author of the interactive fiction The Night Market, and Poppy is a digital artist specializing in interactive fiction characters and D&D OC's. Both of their blogs are linked below.

Zinnia's Writing

Poppy's Art

[ineffablymischievousscamp]

Michael Sheen - Master Storyteller

In today's digital world, celebrity interviews are in abundance - especially when you consider newer mediums like podcasts that have skyrocketed in popularity over the past decade. You can find panels from conventions, access talk shows from other countries, read magazine articles from across the pond. There are so many one-dimensional, disconnected, or just plain boring celebrity guests in this oversaturated market. Michael Sheen is NEVER one of those guests.

Storytelling is an underappreciated skill. In this realm, it becomes obvious that Michael has harnessed this skill exceptionally well. As a master storyteller and world-builder, he captivates with the effortless ease of a raconteur, transforming an ordinary interview question into immersive journeys that leave you utterly enraptured.

You can't help but be drawn in by his passion. It's not just in the words he chooses or the exact experience he is relaying, but the ebb and flow of his narrative voice - a voice that exudes warmth and conviction, vulnerability and authenticity, humor and hope.

Like an artist crafting an epic, he makes it so that you feel like an active participant in the tale - present in the narrative being woven - instead of just a listener. Each story feels like a memory being created in the moment with you, rather than just a mere recounting of events.

I absolutely love when he takes a seemingly simplistic interview question that one would assume would result in a stale, depthless answer, and somehow delivers a story so engaging that you are now on an unexpected adventure alongside him. It doesn't matter the topic - he is just that magical and skilled. Michael must be a dream for interviewers. In a lot of ways, the man practically interviews himself. His tangents are so entertaining, refreshing, and enriching - delivering delicious opportunities to dive deeper into his narratives should the interviewer find themselves brave enough.

Outside of his masterful storytelling, Michael truly just seems like a wonderful human to have a conversation with. He is insanely charming, marvelously chaotic, unabashedly honest, perpetually curious, intensely thought-provoking, and deeply caring.

Do yourself a favor and listen to some Michael Sheen content this week. You might laugh until you hurt. You might sob uncontrollably. You might find yourself impassioned over a new topic. You might leave with a fresh perspective. You might find your faith in humanity restored. You will not regret it.

In closing, we all know that age-old ice breaker question - If you could have a dinner party with any 5 famous people (dead or alive), who would they be and why? Well if it isn't obvious yet, one of my answers would unequivocally be Michael Sheen. He'd be riveting in his own right, but can you imagine the stories he'd draw out of the other guests too?

Bonus Content:

For all of those that made it to the end of my TedTalk... enjoy this instant serotonin boost brought to you by Sheenie's Smile!

And yes, at my dinner party I'd 100% tell him "You've had such a profound effect on my life!"

[mariacallous]

WASHINGTON (AP) — The Kremlin could not have asked for better publicity at a better time when Ben Swann, a self-described independent journalist who promotes conspiracy theories, released a 12-part video series he promised would reveal dark truths about Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.

Swann’s flashy documentary-style videos were filled with innuendo, attacks on Zelenskyy’s character and commentary from guests sympathetic to Russia in its two-year war with Ukraine.

The series, titled “Zelenskyy Unmasked,” launched in April as Congress was debating increasing military assistance to Ukraine, and it quickly caught the attention of conservative social media influencers who hyped the project to their millions of followers.

Among those who promoted the series was Donald Trump Jr., the former president’s eldest son.

“Curious about the billions of dollars and weapons Congress sent Ukraine?” Trump Jr. posted on X, Truth Social and Threads. “You need to watch the first episode of the explosive 12-part series.”

Unlike other conservative media personalities who last month expressed shock upon learning they may have been secretly financed by the Kremlin, Swann has no such qualms. He’s worked for Russia’s state-owned media empire for years, with one of his companies earning millions of dollars for producing Kremlin-friendly shows.

The creation of “Zelenskyy Unmasked” and its viral spread reveal how widely Russia-backed talking points are traveling on social media — a trend that concerns current and former U.S. intelligence officials and disinformation experts.

An investigation by The Associated Press also provides insights into the shadowy and profitable world of political influencers who are not required to disclose who is paying them, raising transparency concerns about their political endorsements in the largely unregulated realm of social media.

Swann brought on a digital marketing firm to publicize “Zelenskyy Unmasked,” and at least one creator acknowledged he was paid to promote the series.

Dire warnings

The revelations about Swann’s work for Russia come as U.S. authorities have issued increasingly dire warnings about the threat posed by Russian disinformation campaigns. In addition to undermining Ukraine, the Kremlin is seeking to disrupt the presidential election and sow discord in the U.S. and elsewhere in the West, those officials have said.

U.S. officials are particularly concerned about Russia’s covert efforts to take advantage of unwitting Americans to spread Moscow’s message and use artificial intelligence to quickly tailor false content.

Russia’s influence operation also appears aimed at boosting support for GOP presidential candidate Donald Trump, who has criticized Ukraine and praised Russian President Vladimir Putin, the officials said.

Trump has dismissed evidence of Russian influence operations, and he and many of his supporters have mocked the broader U.S. government’s effort to highlight Kremlin propaganda efforts.

Registered with the DOJ

Swann filed paperwork with the Justice Department two years ago to register one of his companies as working for Russian state media. In an interview with the AP, Swann said he has kept his work for Russian interests separate from what he produces for U.S. audiences. He has done this, Swann said, by operating two companies — one that generates content for Russian media and another that produces independent journalism, like “Zelenskyy Unmasked,” for U.S. audiences.

“The only connection is that I own both companies,” Swann said.

The AP, however, found that there was some overlap in how the two entities operated.

A handful of guests on “Zelenskyy Unmasked” also appeared on RT shows produced by Swann, according to a review of RT’s video archives and records filed with the Justice Department.

Swann’s shows for U.S. audiences and RT also have similar themes. The Zelenskyy series, for example, echoed Russian state media’s messaging that the Ukrainian president is a would-be autocrat who has duped the West into supporting a conflict that Russia will inevitably win.

A former TV anchor

Swann, 46, was a longtime TV journalist before he was fired from an Atlanta station in 2018 after promoting the debunked “Pizzagate” conspiracy that alleged Democrats were abducting children to serve as sex slaves.

He has since become a social media star who portrays himself as someone daring to ask uncomfortable questions on tough topics — revolving around unfounded claims such as whether the Sandy Hook school shooter acted alone, the coronavirus vaccine was a money-making ploy by big pharmaceutical companies, and Israel was a ”participant” in the massacre of Oct. 7, 2023.

Swann joined Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s anti-vaccine organization, Children’s Health Defense, in a lawsuit pending against several news organizations, including the AP, accusing them of violating antitrust laws by taking action to identify misinformation, including about COVID-19 and COVID-19 vaccines.

Swann said he worked as a correspondent for RT America, a cable channel that was part of a Russian state media outlet, until it went off the air following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. RT officials then asked if he wanted to produce shows for the network to air outside the U.S., Swann said.

“I said, ‘Well, I can’t produce shows for the United States, but if these shows are for overseas, I’ll help you produce them.’ So I started doing that for them, and we’ve been doing that ever since,” Swann said in a July interview.

Producing RT shows

Swann said he produced 10 shows a week using RT America’s old studios in Washington, and he stressed that those shows don’t air in the U.S. or Western Europe, although they are visible across the globe on RT’s website.

Under the Foreign Agents Registration Act, individuals must register with the Justice Department when they seek to influence U.S. policy and public opinion on behalf of foreign governments. Not doing so can result in criminal charges.

Swann’s company, Rebel Media Productions, first registered with the Justice Department in August 2022, saying it worked for RT’s parent company and related entities. The disclosures show Rebel Media Productions was paid more than $6 million in less than two years by RT-related entities.

RT, formerly known as Russia Today, is a major player in Russia’s sprawling propaganda apparatus, and a target of U.S. efforts to block Moscow’s covert influence.

The Justice Department has said RT has links to Russian intelligence agencies, while the U.S. State Department recently unveiled new sanctions on Russian state media. The sanctions target RT’s parent organization, TV Novosti, which Swann contracted with for his Russia-related work.

In February, Swann stopped reporting Rebel Media’s work for Russia to the Justice Department, even as his company kept producing RT shows.

Swann said he ended that registration with the Justice Department because his attorneys told him it wasn’t necessary, despite his company’s continued work for RT. “They said, ‘Why are you making things more difficult for yourself?’” Swann said.

In response to the recent sanctions, Swann said his company last month severed all ties to RT.

“While we disagree with the censorship of our journalists, who were doing quality work on behalf of our client, we have and will continue to respect the rule of law,” Swann said in a statement.

The Justice Department declined to comment.

‘Assume they don’t like Zelenskyy’

Swann said he creates content — like the “Zelenskyy Unmasked” series — for American viewers through another company, Truth in Media.

Truth in Media, Swann said, isn’t profitable and is funded by wealthy U.S. individuals whom he refused to name. “Most of them own very large companies,” he said, “if not publicly traded companies.”

Swann said the large payouts he received from Russian state media had not influenced his work on “Zelenskyy Unmasked,” but he acknowledged Russia’s leaders probably liked the series’ tough take on Ukraine’s president.

“I don’t know, I assume they don’t like Zelenskyy,” Swann said.

Many of the guests interviewed in “Zelenskyy Unmasked” have been RT contributors and guests on its programs.

That includes RT contributor Tara Reade, who briefly moved to Moscow after accusing President Joe Biden of assaulting her in the 1990s; former Ukrainian diplomat Andrii Telizhenko, who was sanctioned by the U.S. Treasury on allegations he had close ties to a “Russia-linked foreign influence network”; and Russell Bentley, an American citizen known to have fought with Kremlin-backed separatists and worked for Russian state media, who died earlier this year in Ukraine.

Another guest who has appeared on RT shows and in the Zelenskyy videos is Scott Ritter, a former U.N. weapons inspector sympathetic to Russia whose upstate New York home was raided in August by the FBI. Ritter told the AP that FBI agents in their questioning made clear that they were investigating his Russia-related work but did not ask specifically about his work with Swann.

Ritter provided the AP with a copy of an email he said was from a booking producer for Swann’s RT shows asking him to appear in the Zelenskyy series.

Ritter said an email invitation he received to participate in “Zelenskyy Unmasked” indicated that its executive producer was Sean Stone, who hosted an RT show and is the son of the filmmaker Oliver Stone.

Sean Stone did not respond to requests for comment, and Swann did not respond to a question about Stone’s involvement on the series.

Swann said his RT-linked company had passed along guest contact details to his business producing “Zelenskyy Unmasked.”

The two entities did not share staff, he said.

An ‘explosive’ series

Truth in Media began teasing the “Zelenskyy Unmasked” videos earlier this year on its website, writing the “explosive” 12-part series would answer “who is really benefitting from the $100 billion the U.S. has sent Ukraine.”

At that time, hard-right congressional Republicans were fighting a proposal to send more money and weapons to Ukraine.

House Intelligence Committee Chairman Rep. Mike Turner and House Foreign Affairs Committee Chairman Michael McCaul, both Republicans, said some GOP lawmakers had been heavily influenced by Russian talking points.

Turner said on CNN that some of those talking points were being “uttered on the House floor.”

To promote “Zelenskyy Unmasked,” Swann said he paid for advertising on social media but believes the series received its most substantial boost in viewership thanks to promotion from conservative influencers. Swann’s videos that were embedded in X posts garnered tens of millions of views.

“When you have different influencers that you can send it directly to, who can watch it for themselves, decide if they like it, and then share it, that’s a pretty powerful tool,” Swann said. “That’s more powerful than the actual marketing of it on Meta or X.”

With the assistance of the tech firm Bright Data, the AP identified a core group of influencers who played a significant role in helping promote the series. Posts by those influencers were shared by at least 9,300 other unique X accounts that have 33 million total followers, according to an AP analysis of “Zelenskyy Unmasked” X data created by Syracuse University’s Institute for Democracy, Journalism and Citizenship.

Influencers promote videos

The spread of “Zelenskyy Unmasked” highlighted how such influencers are playing increasingly pivotal roles in politics, and many have become de facto campaign surrogates for Democratic and Republican candidates. Trump told a core group of conservative content creators — who met in a “war room” during the last presidential debate — that they “are more important than I am.”

Some of those same influencers promoted the series, using identical or similar language to what Swann or Truth in Media promoted online.

Chaya Raichik, the founder of the far-right Libs of TikTok social media accounts, echoed Truth in Media’s promotion of the series, tweeting: “Where did $100 billion of our tax dollars that Congress sent to Ukraine go? Watch ‘Zelensky Unmasked’ to find out!” Raichik did not respond to requests for comment.

When Truth In Media promoted the third episode in the series, it tweeted, “The list of rich and powerful people profiting off the war in Ukraine includes President Biden and his son, but they’re far from the only ones.”

A few days later, C.J. Pearson, co-chair of the Republican National Committee’s Youth Advisory Council, wrote the exact same thing in a tweet about “Zelenskyy Unmasked.”

Others who touted the series were former Trump campaign attorney Jenna Ellis; Morgonn McMichael, a young creator linked to the right-leaning group Talking Points USA; and Andrew Giuliani, a former New York gubernatorial hopeful and the son of Trump confidant Rudy Giuliani. Ellis, McMichael and Giuliani did not respond to requests for comment from the AP.

Conservative influencer Xaviaer DuRousseau, another member of the RNC’s Youth Advisory Council, said he was paid to promote ”Zelenskyy Unmasked” on X through Urban Legend, an influencer marketing firm led by a former Trump administration staffer.

DuRousseau did not disclose how much he was paid, said he was unaware of Swann’s work for Russian state media until interviewed by the AP and said he would carefully consider any future collaborations.

“Is there maybe an ulterior motive to you being against Ukraine? Potentially,” he said. “But I would stress myself out so much if I researched every single person in this industry that thoroughly, to be honest.”

Swann said Truth in Media hired Urban Legend to help with marketing, but didn’t know the details of its work.

“We didn’t know whether or not they were talking to influencers,” Swann said in a statement.

Urban Legend declined to discuss its financial relationships with specific influencers. The company said in a statement that it had been unaware of Swann’s ties to RT and would no longer work with Truth in Media.

Among Swann’s most influential promoters was the former president’s son, Trump Jr., who did not respond to requests for comment from the AP.

In a tweet on April 5, Trump Jr. hailed the series as “explosive” for exposing “the truth behind the war in Ukraine!”

The social media platform’s users added a community note to his tweet that noted Swann’s ties to Russia and said his claims “are likely to be disinformation.”

The warning did not seem to deter Trump Jr. A few days later, he again took to X to praise Swann’s work — in identical language.

[michaelespositostatenisland]

Michael Esposito Staten Island - Influencer Marketing the Future of Engagement? Exploring its Impact & What We Can Expect

In the ever-evolving landscape of marketing, influencer marketing has emerged as a powerful tool for brands to engage with their target audience. Michael Esposito Staten Island — How Influencer Marketing Revolutionizes Brand Engagement demonstrates the transformative potential of this approach. As the digital realm continues to expand, the integration of influencer marketing and SEO is proving to be a game-changer, offering brands amplified awareness, improved engagement metrics, and a boost in conversion rates. Let's delve into the latest trends and insights to understand the impact of influencer marketing and what we can expect in the future.

The Rise of Influencer Marketing

In recent years, influencer marketing has experienced tremendous growth, with an estimated surge from $4 billion in 2022 to over $6 billion in 2025. This surge is not only fueled by direct partnerships but also by the increasing adoption of influencer marketing by brands, with 68% planning to increase their influencer marketing budgets. Additionally, the shift towards social commerce strategies has attributed 29% of sales to social commerce, further underlining the impact of influencers in driving consumer engagement and sales.

Moreover, the influence of influencers is not restricted to specific demographics, as 63% of internet users of all ages have engaged with a sponsored influencer post at some point 3. This demonstrates the widespread impact and reach of influencer marketing across diverse consumer segments.

The Convergence of Influencer Marketing and SEO

As consumers seek authentic content based on real experiences with products and services, the convergence of influencer marketing and SEO has become increasingly evident. This convergence presents an opportunity for brands to leverage influencer content to bolster their SEO strategies and enhance their online visibility.

How Influencer Marketing Impacts SEO

The relationship between influencer marketing and SEO is complex yet complementary. Influencer partnerships can drive engagement, authority, and trust signals that are crucial for SEO. Positive influencer endorsements can build trust with their audience, which can translate to trust in the brand itself. Furthermore, influencers creating valuable content featuring the brand can be leveraged for SEO benefits, including the acquisition of high-quality backlinks.

Future Expectations

Looking ahead, influencer marketing is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of engagement for brands. The integration of influencer content with SEO strategies is expected to further elevate optimization and rankings, ultimately enhancing brand authority and trust signals. Brands that capitalize on this convergence and provide authentic value to their audiences are likely to reap substantial rewards.

Influencer Marketing and SEO: A Symphony of Success

In the journey towards maximizing the potential of influencer marketing and SEO, there are actionable steps that brands can take to craft a strategy that amplifies their brand's reach and builds lasting organic visibility:

1. Aligning Influencers with SEO Goals

Considering micro-influencers who engage in deeper connections with their audiences and create authentic content.

Prioritizing content quality over reach, focusing on informative, engaging content that optimizes for relevant keywords.

Investing in evergreen topics that offer lasting value to the audience and search engines alike.

2. Capitalizing on Content Synergies and Measuring Impact

Repurposing influencer-generated content and optimizing it for relevant keywords.

Leveraging backlinks from influencer partnerships to boost SEO ranking.

Tracking and analyzing influencer campaigns using analytics tools to monitor audience engagement and organic search traffic.

3. Building a Robust SEO Foundation

Optimizing the website for technical soundness, fast loading times, and mobile-friendliness.

Focusing on quality backlinks beyond influencer partnerships, actively pursuing high-quality backlinks from reputable websites in the niche.

In addition to these steps, brands are encouraged to develop always-on influencer partnerships, coordinate integrated content strategies, encourage backlinks, build internal influencers, monitor optimization for E-A-T (Expertise, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness), and leverage video content to bolster reach and visibility.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the future of influencer marketing is bright, with an increasing number of brands recognizing its potential as a valuable marketing tool. Michael Esposito Staten Island - The Impact and Future of Influencer Marketing underscores the significant role this strategy plays in modern marketing. As the integration of influencer marketing and SEO continues to evolve, brands have the opportunity to drive real business impact by leveraging influencers' authenticity and social proof to elevate optimization and rankings. By embracing this convergence and providing authentic value to their audiences, brands can expect to see their authority, trust signals, and conversions surge over competitors.

In essence, influencer marketing is not just a passing trend but an integral component of the marketing landscape, offering brands the potential for sustained engagement, improved visibility, and significant returns on investment.

By aligning influencer marketing with SEO goals and embracing the convergence of these strategies, brands can position themselves for success in the dynamic world of digital marketing. As the relationship between influencer marketing and SEO continues to evolve, the future indeed favors those who recognize and capitalize on this intrinsic link.

For brands looking to stay ahead of the curve, an integrated approach that leverages the power of influencer marketing and SEO is key to unlocking the full potential of both strategies.

In essence, influencer marketing is not just a passing trend but an integral component of the marketing landscape, offering brands the potential for sustained engagement, improved visibility, and significant returns on investment. By aligning influencer marketing with SEO goals and embracing the convergence of these strategies, brands can position themselves for success in the dynamic world of digital marketing. As the relationship between influencer marketing and SEO continues to evolve, the future indeed favors those who recognize and capitalize on this intrinsic link.