Blog Post Question #1
Just to break the ice and to acquaint you with the blogger platform, share with us something in the social media and/or internet universe that you like or find interesting and compelling. It can be a website, a YouTube or TikTok video, an Instagram Page, a Spotify playlist, a Dischord chat, a subreddit, etc. Link to it (or screenshot it) and tell us a bit about what you find interesting about it. Your blog entry need not be more than a paragraph or two at most. Post your blog entry by no later than 6 PM on Monday, January 22nd, and, then, post comments to at least TWO of your classmate's entries by 6 PM on Friday, January 26th.
Attached here is a link to VICE TV. I have been watching multiple different videos from this channel on and off for some time, however, in the last month or two, I have been watching a lot of their videos. I enjoy VICE TV because it shows the various moving parts of our society. With topics from celebrity news to organized crime/illegal activities, VICE TV has it all. Another key reason why I like this channel so much is that VICE TV reporters are live in the action, sometimes interviewing drug smugglers, gang members, and even celebrities within popular culture. They also have different VICE accounts, so they basically cover any topic you can think of.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/@VICE-TV
Hi Dante,
DeleteI think you're totally right that VICE TV shows a lot of moving parts of society! I watched a few videos from the channel, and I was really impressed with the details and storytelling I found in each of them. The first video I watched was "The Meat Monopoly" posted on Jan. 5. There was a huge breadth of ideas brought up and explained in just a 7 minute video. It not only explained the technological advancements in the meat industry (how chickens and eggs are "adaptable to the conditions of industrial production") but also the social and political elements, like the connection to Regan-era neoliberal politics and the resultant failure to implement anti-trust laws. Many of VICE TV's videos are like this; they provide a thorough account of the facts of a case or someone's personal story, provide several well-reasoned connections between facts, and end with a normative argument about how the object of the video affects us and whether this effect is good or bad. Overall I agree that VICE TV's videos are informative and compelling, and that this demonstrates really good investigative journalism and short documentary making.
Hi everyone! Anyone whose had a class with me before has probably heard me talk at length about how I'm an amateur long-distance runner. It's a huge passion of mine and my favourite hobby. One thing that makes the sport much more enjoyable for me is the online community of runners, from Reddit to Instagram to YouTube. It's really motivating to feel like I'm part of a worldwide culture of people going through similar training and experiences. Additionally, being part of online discourse around running solidifies the sport as part of my identity. I find that identifying with a hobby/activity makes one much more likely to continue pursuing it, which is important qua difficult things like exercise. For me, a particularly helpful and fun way to feel like I'm connected to the community is by watching professional runners on YouTube share their training and journeys; it helps keep me inspired to see just how committed (and how fast!) these people are and what may be possible in the future even for amateurs like myself. One of my favourite pro runners is a GBR Marathoner named Phily Bowden. She is currently training to make it to the Olympics within the next few years and documents her routine and advice on her popular YouTube channel. I have included a link to it below.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/@PhilyBowden
Hey Jen, I really enjoyed reading your post. Your enthusiasm for running is very exciting. I personally am not a runner, but I do love lifting weights and through that completely understand how being apart of an online community can enhance your overall experience while pursuing a hobby/passion. I have a close friend who also really enjoys running, and raves about the app Strava. From what I have heard, the sense of community among runners on the platform definitely motivates her and helps her to connect to like minded people weather that be when shes away at school, in our home town and so on.
DeleteI also completely agree with your observation about how identifying with a hobby or activity can increase a person's commitment to it, especially when it comes to difficult tasks where you need to be strong both physically and mentally, like running. Overall i really enjoyed your post and your recommendation to watch professional runners on youtube is something i'd never really thought to much about, but i can imagine it's reassuring to see what can be accomplished with dedication and hard work, and further inspires us to push our own limits, so I will deffinatley give it a try. Happy running !
For my first blog post I have chosen to focus on an instagram account called dudewithsign. Seth Philips is the creator of the account and became known for holding up hand written signs with with humorous and relatable messages in a number of different public places. The signs frequently express opinions and observations about everyday life, societal trends or entertaining comments on a variety of topics. To me the one thing that makes dudewithsign stand out to me is his ability to capture the collective sentiment of the online world/community. Each sign with a different punch line that reflects shared experiences of many who see them. Weather it be poking fun at social media, the nuances of modern day relationships, office culture and so on the humorous aspect brings people together, demonstrating how the power of simplicity and relatability in establishing connections with a global audience. https://www.instagram.com/dudewithsign/
ReplyDeleteHi Kali, I find your example intriguing. After looking at dudwithsign on instagram I see what you mean by the collective sentiment of the online world and community. I find that what this account is doing is a part of a collective humour of private thoughts toward the small things in life, for instance, "empty liquor bottles are not decoration" that is something we often ignore in our everyday life, especially as college students, and most of us our thinking it, but no one is gonna say it. I find that aspect of his account enjoyable and I can see how it appeals to many and brings us together. Great post!
DeleteHi Kali, I really liked the example you chose for this post. The dudewithsign Instagram account will appear on my Instagram Explore page every once in a while and the signs he posts usually make me laugh. I think it is a really unique Instagram page and it is not something I have seen previously or since. While I know there is now a dudettewithsign account, the former was one of the first of its kind (that I am aware of, at least). It definitely, as you mentioned, brings people together and instills this sense of community within a group of people who do not know each other. It is interesting to see the different opinions he posts as well as the responses in the comments of his posts. It is neat to be able to connect with a large audience on the level dudewithsign appears to be.
DeleteAfter reflecting on my social media usage and what I tend to gravitate towards, or find interesting, I came to realize that I am just a passive scroller. I don’t really have anything that jumps out at me that I find myself going back to, although I do favour videos and posts related to skincare, hair, workout routines, gossip podcasts, and travel vlogs, nothing really groundbreaking. However, I did want to reflect on a social media platform that I find particularly interesting and compelling and that’s VSCO.
ReplyDeleteI hate to say it but I am a VSCO girl. Although I'm not as interested in Hydraflasks, Carmex lip balm, or scrunchies, I am compelled by the attributes of this social media site. I can (not so proudly) say that am someone who has made profiles and uploaded on almost all social media platforms that were passing fads. However, VSCO is one that has stuck— for different reasons as to why Instagram and TikTok remain downloaded on my phone. In contrast to other social media sites, VSCO is silent. In spite of the fact that one still gains followers, likes, and favourites on VSCO, the key difference that I cherish, is how you and others are unable to see these numbers. VSCO doesn't have a comment section either, so really, it's just pictures on a feed. Not that I dislike Instagram, but the idea of follower ratios and the number of likes and comments on posts is something that has become worshiped and unhealthy. Personally, VSCO feels more authentic. For me and my friends, it serves as a platform where we post photos that “don’t make the cut for Instagram”, it's just a space to post pictures worthy enough for you, without the background noise of likes, comments, and shares.
It's interesting to hear your reflections on social media usage! I totally get the appeal of VSCO's simplicity and the absence of visible metrics. The focus on authenticity without the pressure of likes and comments seems refreshing. It's great that VSCO has become your go-to platform for sharing moments without the background noise. Sometimes a more laid-back and genuine space is exactly what we need.
Delete(MONICA´S COMMENT)
DeleteHi Abby,
While reading your post I felt quite identified when you talked about it being more of a passive scroller. I also don't feel like there is something specific like a podcast or YouTube channel that I listen to or watch continuously, sometimes I listen to single shows or
watch random videos. I also found your perspective on the VSCO app very interesting, I personally don't have it and it has never caught my attention but after reading what you have written I am considering downloading it, maybe it could be interesting to give this social network a try. I think it is a good point what you say about the fact that there is no number of likes, comments or shares, i fell that at the end of the day theses things makes us think a lot about what to post or not, maybe for fear of "what people will say".
Hi abby, great post. I totally agree that VSCO definitely has a much healthier system because theres no likes, no comments, and no certain 'standards'. I feel like its the only social media platform that I have that I use and post for myself and where I feel more comfortable posting whatever and whenever I want. Iv'e used this app since 2017 and I feel like the dyanmic on the app has always stayed friendly and helpful to keep track of your best photos. There definitely is no fear of "what people will say".
DeleteOne of my hobbies is listening and reading about true crime, because I find it so compelling and interesting to look into. One of my favourite podcasts is “Crime Junkies” and I listen to it when I’m on long drives or walks, because the discussion between the two hosts are very easy to follow. One of the cool things about their website and platform that goes along with the podcast, is that it always has extra features like links to 911 calls from the case, maps of houses involved in the case and other visuals to assist in the understanding of the crime at hand.
ReplyDeleteWhat I love about crime junkies is that it exists as a tool to help deliver awareness of unsolved cases, and if listeners happen to have any information on certain cases that they may only have understood they knew after hearing the podcast, they can assist in solving the case. This has actually occurred before, where a listener of the podcast heard information on an unsolved case and was able to reach out and give the information they had to help locate the missing individual. Overall, I think “Crime Junkies” is an entertaining but also though-provoking podcast worth listening to.
https://crimejunkiepodcast.com
Hi Kaileigh!
DeleteI also really enjoy reading and learning about crime; it always exercises my logic and makes me pay attention to things that need attention in society. I've seen users recommend the 'Crime Junkies' podcast before, but I haven't listened to it yet. After reading your recommendation, I suddenly became very interested in it! I very much agree with your point of view. This program is a tool that not only enables listeners to understand the cases occurring in society now but also empowers them to provide information about the cases and assist in solving them. Thank you for your recommendation!
Hi everyone, something that I find interesting and tend to gravitate towards during my free time is watching YouTuber, food journalist & chef, Claire Saffitz's videos. She makes videos, mainly about baking but also incorporates cooking with other food journalist or internet personalities. I find her videos are easy to watch, entertaining, and easy to follow along when I am trying to re-create something of her own. It's amazing to see the creative and intricate process of compelling and delicious desserts and cooking recipes. In addition, she breaks down the recipes into easily consumable chunks, making complex and intimidating recipes and desserts seem more straight forward. The recipe I have recently been hung up on is her focaccia bread recipe (I am in the process of making one right now). It's fairly easy to make and you only need a handful of ingredients. The catch is to ensure you have time to let it rise multiple times throughout the process. I have previously brought it to birthdays and holiday gatherings and it has always been a hit! I would definitely recommend her channel if you're interested in baking or cooking.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/@CSaffitz
That's awesome to hear! Claire Saffitz's videos sound like an awesome combination of entertainment and learning. I've heard great things about her focaccia bread recipe, the multiple rises might take time, but the end result is worth it. Your success with it at birthdays and holiday gatherings speaks volumes! Thanks for the recommendation; I'll definitely check out her channel for some baking inspiration.
DeleteOne aspect in the social media universe that i've been recently drawn to is outdoor videos that displays people camping outside in treacherous conditions. I watched this one channel in particular called "Outdoor Boys" where it is run by a man who simple goes on solo camping trips and records it for the pleasure of the viewer. He does a great job in being resourceful and showing the viewer a few tricks just incase we find ourselves stranded in the wild. Since it is currently winter, i've been watching a lot of his winter camping videos and it never fails to amaze me. The way he's in tune with the outdoors, knowing what to do in almost any situation is pretty amazing to me. If you guys think this is cool or pretty lame, it doesn't matter so here's the link.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PTnrqkMpfj8
Hi Ryan,
DeleteI found the video pretty cool! My favorite part was when he said it was time for dessert! And proceeded to make ice cream! You really don't have to be into camping to find it fascinating to watch. It is different from other YouTube videos in the sense that it’s just him, the environment, and us, the viewer. The video doesn’t have extravagant movements or music. I sometimes just like watching such videos, as it makes me calm. You know, it’s just a moment of awe and appreciation of nature. As you pointed out, there is also the educational aspect where he demonstrates techniques and offers advice that are helpful if you go camping or find yourself in a risky situation.
Hey everyone,
ReplyDeleteI recently came across this YouTube short series called “History Remade With Sabrina.” In the show, Sabrina Cruz recreates and explains historical things from the past that do not exist anymore. In one of the videos, she recreates the printing press which most of us are aware of but do not really know how it looks and functions. Using different tools, Sabrina was able to bring it to life. It was difficult for her to recreate it as such inventions are no longer in use, and she was basing her recreation on whatever knowledge and information (thanks to the printing press) there is about the printing press. I found this video interesting as I was curious about how the printing press would have looked if it were still used in this age. Of course, we have all seen pictures before but seeing how she recreated it gave me the satisfaction and a better understanding of what I had read about how it operated. I think the series is a good and entertaining way of bringing past innovations to light as they have a significant impact on today’s modern inventions.
This is the link to the printing press video; https://youtu.be/SJCvC8SBodM?si=yf-aLQwkECnHLYRv
Hi Joy, I enjoyed reading about your post - it reminded me of the first year required comms courses learning about the printing press! I've never heard of this YouTube channel but it sounds very informative in a fun and entertaining way. You're right that these inventions have made a significant impact on modern day life and we should have a better understanding of how these inventions work and have set up further evolvement to modern technology. I just did a browse of Sabrina's channel and her episode where she discusses how the pyramids were really built and if they could be made today stuck out to me. Great recommendation!
DeleteHello joy! Wow, your discovery of "History Remade With Sabrina" sounds fascinating! It's incredible how Sabrina brings historical artifacts back to life, shedding light on innovations of the past so we may fully grasp their significance. The recreation of the printing press must have been especially captivating, considering its pivotal role in shaping human history. I can imagine how satisfying it must have been to see firsthand how such a crucial invention operated. Sabrina's series not only provides entertainment but also serves as a valuable educational tool, highlighting the significance of past innovations in shaping our modern world. Thanks for sharing, i'll definitely be checking out "History Remade With Sabrina" for a glimpse into the past!
DeleteA part of the internet landscape I find currently the most enjoyable is TikTok. I find that while it is, yes, a very addicting app, it can be very useful in the sense that you can find communities within it that create content you gravitate toward, whether that be fashion, travel, cooking, etc. I personally have found some of my favourite content creators, podcasts, or travel blogs through TikTok. For instance, something I always found growing up was positive content for young girls that encouraged them to be themselves and be body positive was rare to see, almost everything in the media was catered toward changing yourself to fit societal standards. Spencer Barbosa is a Canadian content creator who focuses on body positivity and inclusivity, i find her content to be amazing for girls everywhere and to help with confidence and happiness. Currently, she has expanded her career into her own clothing brand and has made videos with popular figures such as Selena Gomaz. She has definitely made her mark by challenging societal norms surrounding women's bodies and mindsets by creating a platform where girls feel inspired.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.tiktok.com/@spencer.barbosa?lang=en
Hi Brynn, that's great to hear that you've found some of your favourite content creators through TikTok! I agree with you in that the app allows people to find others with the same interests and be apart of communities they might have difficulty finding without the app. I also think that TikTok is a great way to learn new tips & tricks. I find I always find something new when going into the app, whether that is a new iphone hack, tips for school or general lifestyle tricks. I also know of Spencer Barbosa's social media profile and I think she does a great job with providing a positive community and uplifting others on social media. I wish there were more profiles and content creators like her when I first started scrolling on social media when I was younger.
DeleteAs an English as a second language student, I have a special preference for watching English Vlogs on the YouTube platform. Because most Vlogs feature bloggers recording their daily lives, not only can I learn about different cultures while watching them, but I can also practice my English listening and learn some authentic vocabulary. My favourite YouTuber is Daiz; she is a Korean girl living in Canada. Her videos always capture some aspects of her daily life, such as studying, eating, attending parties, or sharing some shopping, etc. I particularly appreciate the colours and tones of Daiz’s videos, which have a youthful and clean feel. Moreover, her video covers are always made up of several photos spliced together, making it easy for me to discern the theme of each video, creating a very comfortable viewing experience. English is the main language in her videos, and she doesn’t speak too fast, which is very suitable for my learning. I often watch her videos before doing homework, gradually getting into a learning state (perhaps helping me transition to an English environment). Even though she is an online blogger, her videos consistently make me feel as if she is my real friend. Spending a day with her through her videos is an amazing feeling!
ReplyDeleteIf you also want to know about Daiz, here is her:
https://www.youtube.com/@daisychoiii
Hi Qingyang!
DeleteIt's so cool to hear about your positive experience with English Vlogs! I can totally relate to the joy of using YouTube as a platform for learning and becoming comfortable with something new. It's awesome that Daiz's videos have become a source of not just language practice but also a window into different cultures. The fact that her content is relatable, capturing various aspects of daily life, adds a personal touch to the learning experience.
Hi Qingyang,
DeleteYour description of how English Vlogs on YouTube, especially Daiz's channel, contribute to your language learning journey is truly inspiring. I find it very interesting on how Daiz not only enhances your English listening skills but also provides valuable insights into cultural nuances. It's evident that Daiz's relatable content creates a sense of camaraderie, making you feel connected as if she's a close friend. Your dedication to incorporating her videos into your learning routine is great, reflecting your commitment to mastering English in a supportive and engaging environment. Great work!
I find great inspiration and motivation in watching YouTube videos about boxing and gym workouts. One channel that particularly stands out to me is "Precision Striking" by JT Van V. The channel provides in-depth breakdowns of boxing techniques, drills, and strategies. I appreciate how JT breaks down complex movements into simple, easy-to-understand tutorials. The attention to detail in analyzing different boxing styles and the emphasis on proper form make it a valuable resource for both beginners and experienced boxers alike. I often find myself spending hours immersed in these videos, learning new techniques and gaining insights into the world of boxing. It's not just about the physical aspect; there's a mental and strategic element that adds depth to the sport, making it a fascinating journey of continuous improvement.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/@PrecisionBoxing
Hi Victor, that's awesome that you enjoy fitness and boxing videos on Youtube. I find that social media is great for those who are already interested in or those who are only begining with fitness, sports, and healthy lifestyles. I find that it can be motivating to see others fitness journeys and know that it is possible to start at any point, or to always improve. There is absolutely lots of tutorials online as well as tips and tricks to learn. I always find that video formats are the best way to learn about fitness and Youtube and TikTok are most helpful in that sense. Super cool that you are interested in boxing! Great post!
DeleteAs an analyst of social media, I am fascinated by the long-form video content featured YouTube and am particularly interested with travel and journalistic videos. I enjoy this type of content as it immerses viewers into the reality of unique locations around the world, allowing the audience to essentially experience a virtual version of that particular location. Specifically, a YouTuber by the name of ArabUncut, has been able to capture my attention, as his videos offer a humanitarian and empathetic approach to journalism, capturing and documenting people in a variety of different walks of life. Whether he is documenting Brazilian gangs in the Favelas, or the ultra-wealthy criminals who reside in Nice, France, he is able to highlight the fact that each and every person is a human. His ultimate goal is to document, and showcase the more positive aspects of these unique, and at-times dangerous lifestyles, demonstrating that there is more to the narrative that is presented by mainstream media. I particularly am fascinated as I have observed many preexisting misconceptions that existed in my perspective on these locations, leading me to establish a more ethical and empathetic perspective on developing nations such as Brazil or Columbia. By observing this, I have sparked an interest in traveling myself, and believe that there is value in exploring unique locations, as these experiences can aid in shaping your perspective.
ReplyDeleteI have attached his channel below, where you can find a video that interests yourself.
https://www.youtube.com/@YourFellowArab
Hey Cam,
DeleteI just watched the Day 1 of Living with the Mexican Cartel video, and I found it interesting. Putting himself at risk for the world to see is brave. I like how he actually lives the cartels' way of life to truly understand the meaning of it all. As you mentioned, it helps people see the truth, which is so often misinterpreted about these countries and cultures that are often presented in a dark way. People with these false images of countries and cultures can get to see and understand the way other people's lives go.
Hi Cam, It's fascinating to see how ArabUncut's travel and journalistic videos on YouTube have influenced and challenged your perceptions of different cultures. The humanitarian approach to documenting diverse lifestyles is admirable. Have you considered incorporating these insights into your work as a social media analyst, or do you intend to visit these unique locations to broaden your perspective?
DeleteHi Cam, your exploration of long-form travel and journalistic content on YouTube, especially ArabUncut's work, highlights the power of storytelling to unveil the diverse realities of our world. It's inspiring to witness how such narratives challenge preconceptions and foster empathy towards different cultures and lifestyles. Your journey toward a more ethical and empathetic perspective underscores the transformative potential of immersive experiences. Overall great post!
DeleteAn interesting social media platform that I have started to use is Strava. Strava stands out as a distinctive player in the social media realm, tailored specifically for fitness enthusiasts. Going beyond the task of tracking runs, rides or other activities, Strava infuses a social element into the fitness narrative. Users can seamlessly connect with friends, offer virtual applause for achievements, and engage in friendly competition through virtual leaderboards. What I think is interesting about Strava, is how it is still a social media platform but has so many features to show what you are doing to friends. The app's innovative features and detailed insights provide a dynamic and enriching fitness experience, making each activity more than just a personal achievement. Overall I would recommend this app to anyone who wants to try out a new platform.
ReplyDeleteHere is a link to the app:
https://www.strava.com/get-started?utm_source=google&utm_medium=cpc&utm_campaign=RSR_B_SR_AllUser_CAN&utm_term=strava&utm_content=Brand_Universal&gad_source=1&gclid=Cj0KCQiAwbitBhDIARIsABfFYILBtMARjmHyCIsk3qKvUCDELBGshcKV19xMB5eG-iRmk7GFgdaCBkQaAoMbEALw_wcB
Absolutely agree with your perspective on Strava. It's refreshing to see a social media platform specifically for fitness enthusiasts. The community aspect, with features like virtual applause and leaderboards, adds a fun and motivational layer to our fitness journeys. I actually just recently got strava and its a great way to look at my runs and share and compare with my friends. It's fascinating how Strava transforms individual achievements into shared experiences and found the friendly competition aspect to be a great motivator. It's like turning our fitness routine into a collaborative adventure with friends. Strava is a game-changer for those looking to combine their fitness goals with a sense of community. Thanks for sharing your insights, and I couldn't agree more with your positive take on this platform!
DeleteHi everyone, I'm Avery and I think my most used platform is YouTube and I would like to share one of my favorite or more interesting YouTube channels. It's called exurb1a and its videos surrounding philosophical theories and deep thinking. The channel features a variety of videos that blend humor, science, and philosophy to explore complex ideas about the universe, human existence, and the nature of reality. There is funny jokes, but I love to mostly watch these videos as they have deep meaning to make you think about life differently. My perspectives on many things such as money, friends, problems and my future have been heavily influenced by this channel. I specifically enjoy their videos that cover topics such as existentialism, space exploration, artificial intelligence, and the meaning of life. Here is an example of a short video that might make you think.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VLAAy_pM-k8
Hey Avery! Your enthusiasm for exurb1a is amazing! It's fascinating how my post about Kurzgesagt and yours about exurb1 both dive deep into complex topics, but from different angles. While Kurzgesagt focuses on visually captivating explanations of scientific and societal concepts, exurb1a delves into philosophical concepts with a blend of humor and Self-reflection. I can see how both channels can complement each other in shaping our perspectives on life and the world around us. It's incredible how online platforms like YouTube offer such diverse and nourishing content that sparks deep thinking and meaningful conversations. Thanks for sharing your favorite channel, i'll definitely check out exurb1a's videos for some thought-provoking content!
DeleteOne of my favorite online spots is the YouTube channel "Kurzgesagt – In a Nutshell." This channel is renowned for creating spectacular animated videos on a wide range of topics, from science to society. What's so great about them is how they break down complicated ideas into easy to understand explanations. Their animations make learning fun, whether they're talking about space or tackling big issues like climate change. What I really appreciate is how they encourage viewers to think critically. Instead of just telling us stuff, they want us to ask ourselves questions and see things from different perspectives. Not to mention that they are super reliable with their facts. In a world full of fake news and clickbait, it's refreshing to find a channel that's all about engagingly sharing knowledge. I always look forward to their next videos as I always know it’ll be something fun and interesting.
ReplyDeletehttps://www.youtube.com/@kurzgesagt