Welcome to the Vero Beach Podcast—where we share the stories behind the businesses, makers, and dreamers shaping our community. Each week, we’ll sit down with local business owners and community leaders to hear their journeys—the highs, the lows, and everything in between. From family-owned shops to bold startups, you’ll get to “meet your neighbors” and discover what makes Vero Beach such a vibrant place to live, work, and visit. Because when we know the stories, it changes how we shop, conn ...
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Welcome to Mindful Bytes, your go-to podcast for exploring the intersection of technology, social media trends, and digital strategy. Join our dynamic team as they dive into the fast-paced, ever-changing world of tech and social media, offering unique insights, practical tips, and a lot of laughs along the way. Meet Your Podcast Panel: • Brian Curee: A seasoned Gen X business leader and digital strategist, Brian isn't afraid to ask the tough questions that make you reflect on the 'why' and ' ...
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Apricot Lane Boutique - Part 1: From Corporate to Boutique
8:35
8:35
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8:35Send us a text Ever wondered what it takes to leave the corporate world behind and open your own boutique? Ashley Borenz of Apricot Lane Boutique in Vero Beach shares her journey from big box retail manager to independent business owner. After 15 years in Vero Beach and years working alongside her husband at Lowe's, Ashley took the entrepreneurial …
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Coastal Connections - Part 3: Power of Community & Choices
14:29
14:29
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14:29Send us a text The success story of sea turtle conservation in Vero Beach isn't just about scientists; it's about an entire community making conscious choices. Kendra Bergman, founder and executive director of Coastal Connections, shares how the organization has become woven into the fabric of Vero Beach over the past decade. When Hurricane Milton …
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Coastal Connections - Part 2: Tipsy Turtles & Shell-abrations
15:42
15:42
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15:42Send us a text Ever wondered what makes those colorful ribbons and stakes appear on Florida beaches during turtle season? Kendra from Coastal Connections pulls back the curtain on sea turtle conservation in this enlightening second installment of our three-part series. Running a marine conservation nonprofit requires remarkable versatility. During …
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Coastal Connections - Part 1: Hey There, Turtle… I Like You
19:03
19:03
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19:03Send us a text Meet Kendra Bergman, marine biologist and founder of Coastal Connections, who's passionate about protecting the endangered sea turtles of Vero Beach. From a chance childhood encounter with a green turtle in Hawaii to establishing a thriving conservation organization, Kendra's journey reveals how dedication and community involvement c…
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REsistance - Part 3: Forging Community Through Fitness in Vero Beach
15:21
15:21
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15:21Send us a text Finding your tribe in a new city can be one of life's greatest challenges, especially for adults. When Danielle moved to Vero Beach, leaving behind her tight-knit friend group in Westfield, she discovered firsthand how challenging it can be to build new social connections, particularly for women. While men had golf clubs and fishing …
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REsistance - Part 2: Cookies & Kettlebells (Finding Joy in Fitness)
19:57
19:57
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19:57Send us a text Ever wondered what makes a boutique fitness studio truly special? Danielle, owner of REsistance Fitness Studio in Vero Beach, pulls back the curtain on creating a fitness experience that goes beyond just workouts. Dive into REsistance's creative "Christmas in July" programming, where holiday cheer meets fitness goals through themed s…
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REsistance - Part 1: Spin Class, Setbacks & Starting Fresh
30:05
30:05
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30:05Send us a text What happens when you blend psychology, creativity, and fitness expertise into one dynamic space? Danielle Kireyczyk, founder of REsistance Fitness Studio in Vero Beach, joins us to share her remarkable journey from Massachusetts fitness instructor to Florida studio owner. Remember that intimidating feeling of walking into a fitness …
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Vero Beach Neighborhood® - Part 3: The Power of Neighborly Connection
12:18
12:18
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12:18Send us a text What makes a community truly special? In this heartwarming conversation with Danielle, founder of the influential Vero Beach Neighborhood® group, we discuss the magic that sets Vero Beach apart from other coastal towns. Danielle paints a vivid picture of Vero as "stepping back in time," a place where mom-and-pop businesses still thri…
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Vero Beach Neighborhood® - Part 2: Raw Realities Behind VBN
18:50
18:50
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18:50Send us a text Stepping behind the digital curtain of Vero Beach Neighborhood (VBN), the Facebook group that connects 74,000 local residents, reveals an astonishing commitment to community stewardship. Danielle, the driving force behind this thriving online space, shares the raw realities of her 4am wake-ups and the manual processing of thousands o…
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Vero Beach Neighborhood® - Part 1: Vero's Digital Water Cooler
19:46
19:46
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19:46Send us a text What happens when a simple Facebook group transforms into the digital heartbeat of an entire community? Meet Danielle Wynkoop, the creator of Vero Beach Neighborhood® (VBN) - a 74,000-member strong online community that's become an essential part of life in this Florida coastal town. From her sun-drenched VBN Beach Shop and Gifts sto…
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Breeze Pelvic Health - Part 2: What’s Your Jaw Got To Do With It?
19:59
19:59
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19:59Send us a text Ever wondered if that nagging hip pain might be connected to something else? Or why healthcare often feels so disconnected from our real lives? Ashley from Breeze Pelvic Health joins us to transform how we think about our bodies and healthcare delivery. Ashley takes us behind the scenes of her mobile pelvic floor physical therapy pra…
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Breeze Pelvic Health - Part 1: Real Talk on “Down There”
18:36
18:36
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18:36Send us a text Taboo topics and awkward silences have no place in healthcare, especially when they prevent us from addressing issues that affect our daily lives and wellbeing. That's what makes this conversation with Ashley Murray, founder of Breeze Pelvic Health, so refreshingly important. Ashley demystifies pelvic floor therapy with clarity and c…
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Walking Tree Brewery - Part 3: Staying Rooted in Vero Beach
13:15
13:15
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13:15Send us a text In Part Three, we'll dive into the heart and soul of Walking Tree Brewery with founders Mike and Brooke as they unpack their powerful mission statement: "Staying rooted in practice, promise, and people." This candid conversation reveals how a personal art project evolved into an iconic brewery logo, and why mangrove roots perfectly s…
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Walking Tree Brewery - Part 2: The Grit Behind the Craft Beer Business
18:00
18:00
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18:00Send us a text What does it truly take to run a successful craft brewery? The Walking Tree Brewery founders pull back the curtain on the daily realities of their business, a world where passion for great beer meets the unglamorous tasks of plumbing repairs and navigating outdated alcohol regulations. This candid conversation reveals how Walking Tre…
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Walking Tree Brewery - Part 1: Saving a Historic Building with Craft Beer
20:28
20:28
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20:28Send us a text Tucked away in Vero Beach sits an extraordinary 24,000 square foot piece of World War II history that nearly faced demolition. Instead, it became the home of Walking Tree Brewery, a testament to what happens when passion meets perseverance, even during tough economic times. Meet Mike and Brooke, the husband-and-wife team who transfor…
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Level Yoga Studio - Part 3: From "Vero Zero" to Thriving Community
6:47
6:47
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6:47Send us a text What happens when a hometown you once called "Vero Zero Beach" becomes the perfect place to build your dream business? Amanda from Level Yoga takes us on her journey from skeptical local to passionate small business owner, revealing how Vero Beach transformed before her eyes into a community of extraordinary support and connection. G…
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Level Yoga Studio - Part 2: Teaching, Practicing & Leading (Behind the Scenes)
9:44
9:44
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9:44Send us a text Ever wondered what it takes to run a successful yoga studio? Amanda from Level Yoga Studio pulls back the curtain on her entrepreneurial journey, revealing the surprising balance of teaching, practicing, and business management that fills her days. Despite founding and running two successful yoga locations, Amanda remains committed t…
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Level Yoga Studio - Part 1: Breath, Balance, and Belief Built Something Beautiful
14:53
14:53
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14:53Send us a text Discovering how yoga can transform both body and mind is at the heart of our conversation with Amanda Steadman, owner of Level Yoga Studio. As she celebrates an impressive 10-year milestone with her Vero Beach studios, Amanda reveals how a dark period of her life evolved into a thriving community space that's changing lives. As Amand…
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Indian River Distillery - Part 3: Bourbon, Buried Treasure, and the Ashley Gang
21:32
21:32
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21:32Send us a text Ever wondered about the real Florida beyond theme parks and beaches? Pull up a chair and pour yourself something smooth as Ray, owner of Indian River Distillery, takes us on a captivating journey through Vero Beach's colorful past. Ray's Florida roots run deep. His pioneering family settled on John's Island in 1903, well before India…
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Indian River Distillery - Part 2: Spirit of the Treasure Coast
29:32
29:32
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29:32Send us a text What happens when passionate craftsmanship meets Florida's unique environment and rich history? At Indian River Distillery in Vero Beach, Ray and his team aren't just making spirits—they're bottling the essence of the Treasure Coast itself. From the moment you step into their "tasting room" (not a bar, as they'll kindly remind you), …
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Indian River Distillery - Part 1: Building a Legacy, Crafting History
22:16
22:16
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22:16Send us a text Ray Hooker sits down at Indian River Distillery to share the story behind Vero Beach's premier craft spirits destination. As a third-generation Indian River County resident with deep local ties, Ray brings an authentic Florida perspective that challenges the theme park and beach stereotype visitors often associate with the Sunshine S…
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Coconut Casita - Part 3: Every Corner Has a Soul
8:16
8:16
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8:16Send us a text From snowsuits to flip-flops and surfboards, Linda's journey to Vero Beach began with skepticism but quickly transformed into a 25-year love affair with this charming Florida coastal town. Despite her initial resistance—"I've done spring break, I've done Florida"—Linda found herself captivated by the lush greenery and stunning beauty…
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Coconut Casita - Part 2: From Fluffing Pillows to Melting Teapots
20:39
20:39
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20:39Send us a text Ever wondered what it really takes to run a successful Airbnb? Linda from the Coconut Casita in Vero Beach, Florida takes us behind the scenes of vacation rental hosting, revealing both the magic and the madness of this increasingly popular business venture. The labor of love that is Airbnb hosting extends far beyond changing sheets …
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Coconut Casita - Part 1: From Family Home to Tropical Oasis
12:43
12:43
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12:43Send us a text Stepping through the doorway of the Coconut Casita feels like entering another world – a tropical sanctuary where every object tells a story and the surrounding "jungle garden" whispers secrets of times past. In this heartfelt conversation with Linda Roberts, we uncover the remarkable journey of how a once "smoky, dingy, and sad" gue…
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Seahorse Lane Boutique - Part 3: The Vero Initiative
12:38
12:38
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12:38Send us a text What happens when hometown pride meets entrepreneurship and a desire to give back? Seahorse Lane Boutique owners Audrey and Mike reveal their journey from Vero Beach roots to creating a beloved local business with community impact at its heart. Audrey shares how an unexpected high school relocation to Mississippi sparked her passion …
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Seahorse Lane Boutique - Part 2: Cultivating Customer Connections
20:13
20:13
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20:13Send us a text What does it take to create a thriving local boutique in an Amazon-dominated world? At Seahorse Lane Boutique, owners Audrey and Mike have discovered the secret ingredient: genuine human connection. Step inside their Vero Beach shop where customers aren't just shoppers—they're welcomed friends deserving to be seen and valued. "We ref…
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Seahorse Lane Boutique - Part 1: When It's Time to "Go"
21:28
21:28
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21:28Send us a text Stepping through the doors of Seahorse Lane Boutique feels like discovering a carefully curated treasure trove—beautiful displays of jewelry, clothing, and gifts that immediately catch your eye. But behind this inviting space lies a remarkable story of courage, faith, and entrepreneurship that began with a single, life-changing decis…
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The Heart Behind the Show & Hosts of the Vero Beach Podcast
12:32
12:32
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12:32Send us a text Welcome to the very first episode of the Vero Beach Podcast! In this kickoff conversation, Brian and Shawna Curee share the heart behind launching the local vero beach podcast. This podcast is all about shining a light on the amazing people, businesses, artists, musicians, and leaders who make Vero Beach such a special place to live …
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Send us a text In this special preview episode, host Brian Curee introduces the heart behind the Vero Beach Podcast. Whether you're a lifelong resident, new to the area, or visiting, this is your invitation to meet your neighbors in Vero Beach. Hear their stories and discover what makes Vero Beach truly special. From family-owned shops and creative…
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Metaverse Reality Check: Connection, Control & Digital Well-Being
47:31
47:31
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47:31Text Us 🧠 (Fan Mail) Let's dive deep into the Metaverse, reflecting on our three-year journey, and discussing the hidden pros and cons of immersive digital platforms. While the Metaverse offers unprecedented connection, are we fully aware of how it affects our mental health, relationships, and digital habits? During this episode we'll explore how a…
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TikTok Blackout & Security Concerns: Are The Threats Real Or Myths?
36:49
36:49
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36:49Text Us 🧠 (Fan Mail) The TikTok blackout revealed the emotional impact and deep connections users have with the platform, raising critical discussions about cybersecurity and personal dependency on social media. As Brian, Olivia and Ashton explore the aftermath of the blackout, they emphasize the importance of diversifying engagement methods beyond…
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Bluesky: A New Decentralized Social Media Platform and Battling Burnout
33:32
33:32
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33:32Text Us 🧠 (Fan Mail) In this episode we'll introduce you to Blue Sky, a new social media platform focused on putting users in control of there data and controlling what you see in feeds. Olivia shares how Blue Sky stands apart in the digital landscape, offering creators independence and users a refreshing, less overwhelming social media experience …
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AI-Powered Glasses and How They See the World
41:46
41:46
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41:46Text Us 🧠 (Fan Mail) Unlock the future of wearable tech with us as we explore Meta's groundbreaking AI-powered Ray-Ban glasses. What if your sunglasses could do more than just shield your eyes? Meet the smart eyewear that sees your world, all while letting you stay connected to the real world. Join Brian, Ashton, Olivia, and Shawna as we unveil how…
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Meta Flexed Their AI Muscle at Meta Connect 2024: Image Editing, Meta Ray-Bans & The Orions AR Glasses
37:04
37:04
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37:04Text Us 🧠 (Fan Mail) Curious about the latest in AI and mixed reality technology? Discover how Meta is pushing the boundaries with groundbreaking innovations. Join Shawna, Olivia, and Brian on Mindful Bytes as they unpack Meta Connect 2024's jaw-dropping announcements. From the affordable Quest 3s headset to significant updates in Horizon World, we…
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Trust Issues: From Fake Reviews to Ethical Consumerism
19:26
19:26
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19:26Text Us 🧠 (Fan Mail) Can we trust reviews anymore, or have they become part of the marketing game? In this episode of Mindful Bytes, we discuss the reliability of online reviews. With the rise of fake and paid reviews, can consumers trust what they’re reading anymore? The podcast panel explore how reviews have evolved, and how marketers are manipul…
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From TikTok for Kids (Zigazoo) to Instagram For Teens
31:02
31:02
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31:02Text Us 🧠 (Fan Mail) How safe is social media for our kids? On this episode of Mindful Bytes, we explore the app Zigazoo, often dubbed "TikTok for kids." Discover how Zigazoo aims to provide a safer online environment for children aged eight and up with features like parental controls, human-reviewed content, and educational challenges. The panel w…
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AI Friendships, Becoming Invisible to Stand Out & Instagram's DM Focus
45:15
45:15
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45:15Text Us 🧠 (Fan Mail) Could AI become your close friend? What if becoming “invisible” could help your business stand out? Have your heard about Instagram's new DM features? In this episode of Mindful Bytes, you'll be introduced to a new AI gadget and how it can potentially become your next friend. We'll explore using the private feed to deepen conne…
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Personal vs Business Brands, ManyChat's Auto Responder, Benefits & Pitfalls Using Health Apps & AI Regulations
46:50
46:50
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46:50Text Us 🧠 (Fan Mail) What’s more effective: building a personal brand or focusing on your company’s brand? Are wellness apps really beneficial, or do they pose hidden risks? How can chatbots like ManyChat enhance your social media engagement? Are AI-generated content and deepfakes a threat to online authenticity? In this episode of Mindful Bytes, w…
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AI Ethics, Digital Detox, Google’s Battle, Social Media Shifts, an AI Call Recorder Gadget
49:51
49:51
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49:51Text Us 🧠 (Fan Mail) Do you trust the companies behind the tech you use every day, or are you concerned about the power they hold? In this episode of Mindful Bytes, the team dives into the fascinating yet sometimes intimidating world of emerging technologies. We touch on AI facial recognition, the implications of Google's potential breakup, and why…
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AI Solutions & Concerns, Phantom Vibration Revisit & Social Media During an Election Year
33:49
33:49
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33:49Text Us 🧠 (Fan Mail) In this episode, Brian shares how AI is reshaping various industries, from recruitment to customer service and even sports coaching. Imagine having AI help you make smarter inventory decisions or reducing daily tasks. But with these advancements come real concerns about privacy and regulation. We'll discuss two stories recently…
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The Right to Disconnect, Bridging Generational Gaps & Healthy Boundaries
36:07
36:07
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36:07Text Us 🧠 (Fan Mail) Can a law protect your personal time from work demands? Join us for a special edition of the Mindful Bytes podcast, recorded live from the Metaverse, as we debate France's law that gives workers the right to disconnect from work communications outside of office hours. Our panel—Brian, Shawna, Olivia, and Ashton—brings a wealth …
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Instagram's DM Dilemma, Tech's Impact on Creativity, Ready vs Done Mindset & AI Now
37:48
37:48
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37:48Text Us 🧠 (Fan Mail) Can Instagram's latest update transform your business interactions, or will it complicate communication beyond repair? Join us on Mindful Bytes as we dissect Instagram's significant change to business accounts—now, you can only receive DMs from users you follow. Let's discuss the pros and cons with Olivia, from reducing spam to…
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Solitude vs. Loneliness, Managing Smartphone Distractions, and Authentic Instagram Engagement Strategies
35:49
35:49
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35:49Text Us 🧠 (Fan Mail) Have you ever felt lonelier after scrolling through social media? We discuss why this happens and how you can counteract it by focusing inward. Could solitude be the cure for loneliness? Join us on Mindful Bytes as we explore this compelling idea, drawing on insights from Wendell Berry to reveal how purposeful alone time can de…
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iPhones Banned in the Workplace, TikTok vs Google, Loneliness Epidemic, and Metaverse Updates
30:22
30:22
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30:22Text Us 🧠 (Fan Mail) How would you feel if iPhones were banned at your workplace? Could TikTok really replace Google? Join us as we explore a fascinating study by Adobe that reveals surprising shifts in consumer behavior. Our discussion doesn't stop there! We'll confront the epidemic of loneliness in America. Is technology bringing us together or d…
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Text Us 🧠 (Fan Mail) Curious about how technology influences our daily lives and mental well-being? Join us on the inaugural episode of Mindful Bytes, where Brian, our Gen X business leader, brings together a vibrant panel of co-hosts including Olivia, the social media-savvy millennial, Ashton, the Gen Z tech enthusiast, Shawna, the not-so-tech-sav…
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