'No Opt-Out' Returns for Season 2!
Conrad and Verena share eight new phone conversations between the US and South Africa.
Eight hours weren’t nearly enough—digital besties Verena and Conrad are back today with Season 2 of ‘No Opt-Out’, a podcast continuing their deep dive into living in harmony with technology.
Get ready for some real talk, more laughter, and a decent dose of curiosity as they delve deeper into their blossoming friendship, critically examine tech’s role in the modern world, and share a vision for creating a sustainable digital community.
Listen now on your platform of choice:
New Episodes
Episode 1: A Virtual Embrace
Episode 2: We Need to Talk About AI
Episode 3: It Has to Stay in the Box
Episode 4: Connection 101
Episode 5: Sit and Be
Episode 6: Novelty That AI Can’t Give You
Episode 7: Reimagining Digital Community
Episode 8: See You in the Treehouse
Season Highlights
Postcard showdown: Verena and Conrad launch a playful “Postcard Olympics,” sending each other holiday cards months ahead to test postal timing.
Tech-fueled Olympics: The pair explore the surprising role of tech at the Paris 2024 Olympics, from “Victory selfies” to those controversial cardboard beds.
Botgate: Not again! Verena clears up the latest rumours that she’s a bot.
Generative AI recipe experiments: Verena shares quirky AI-generated recipes, contrasting Conrad’s sceptical take on AI’s practical use.
AI diffuses awkward moments: Conrad hilariously recounts using GPT to navigate a tricky social situation, showcasing the tech’s unexpected applications.
No tech poetry: Conrad’s No Tech Retreat (happily) leads to boredom-fueled poetry writing and unexpected fun, sparking a reflection on digital balance.
Treehouse hangout vision: The season wraps with an idea to hang out in a “digital treehouse”. Cue childhood nostalgia!
Pen Pal Appreciation
Curious about the regular handwritten pen pal letters Conrad and Verena write to each other? Follow the journey:
About the Hosts
Verena is an educator from Las Vegas, USA. She is techno-curious and deeply mindful of the impact of emerging tech on education, creativity, and the power of fun.
Update: Since season one, Verena has launched a consulting firm and rescued another puppy.
Conrad is a writer and creative entrepreneur from George, South Africa. He has long experimented with balancing tech use to enhance creativity and maintain good mental health.
Update: Since season one, Conrad has made significant progress on his novel and completed a bunch of short courses on artificial intelligence.