Episode Recap: "Everything is Political Part II"

Hosted by: Cassie Betts
Executive Producer: Eman Barkley
Air Date: January 4, 2025

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Introduction to Episode and Guest

In Episode 127 of TalkTechTo.Me, titled "Everything is Political Part II", host Cassie Betts delves into the dynamic intersection of politics and technology under the incoming Trump administration. The episode explores potential regulatory shifts across sectors like social media, AI, cryptocurrency, and more. Executive Producer Eman Barkley also joins the conversation, adding depth to discussions on policy impacts and tech trends.

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What’s the Tea in Tech?

The episode kicked off with The Tea in Tech, highlighting major tech news:

• Meta’s AI Backlash: Meta faced criticism for its “virtual blackface” AI characters on social media, leading to account removals.
• Apple’s $95 Million Settlement: Apple agreed to compensate eligible U.S. residents over claims of unauthorized Siri recordings. Claim filing details.
• Tesla’s Sales Decline: Despite a 1.1% drop in global sales for 2024, Tesla's stock surged by 63%, driven by strong performance in China.
• MISLA’s Animate Our World Bootcamp: The bootcamp offers a path to becoming an AI animator with scholarships for underrepresented communities. Apply now.

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Main Insights: Tech Under the Trump Administration

1. Social Media Regulation & Section 230: The administration may reform Section 230, altering how platforms manage content and liability.
2. AI & Deregulation: A more relaxed regulatory environment is expected, with companies like Microsoft advocating for favorable policies.
3. Cryptocurrency Policies: The new administration aims to clarify cryptocurrency regulations, balancing innovation with consumer protection.
4. Elon Musk's Government Role: Musk's appointment as co-chair of the Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) could influence tech policy, raising ethical concerns about conflicts of interest.

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Community Impact: Veteran Mental Health and Safety

The tragic Cybertruck explosion in Las Vegas prompted discussions on veteran mental health and the influence of online platforms. The incident has led to increased calls for mental health support and stronger security measures at public events.

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Career Advice & Opportunities

Cassie highlighted the Animate Our World Bootcamp by Made In South LA (MISLA), which offers career pathways in AI animation with full scholarships and job placement support. The bootcamp is a great opportunity for justice-impacted, foster youth, and low-income individuals.

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Final Takeaways

• The tech community is navigating complex political waters, with major CEOs, including Tim Cook, Sam Altman, Jeff Bezos, Mark Zuckerberg, and Dara Khosrowshahi, donating $1 million each to Trump's inauguration committee.
• The conversation around Elon Musk's dual roles in government and tech continues, with calls for stricter ethical oversight to prevent conflicts of interest.

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Stay Connected

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• @instabetts
• @talktechto.me
• @madeinsouth.la

For more on Made In South LA’s bootcamps, visit misla.org.

Thank you for tuning in to TalkTechTo.Me on KBLA Talk 1580. Stay tech-savvy, and see you next episode!