Why I Social

Chris Sully (@CSSully) is Marketing Manager at Funko. He's also the co-owner of Nerd FU. He is the host/co-host of multiple podcasts including Funko's Funkast. His journey to Funko (his number one job) is one that will inspire many to chase their dreams.  [The Why I Social Podcast is sponsored by the National Institute for Social Media (NISM). You can learn more about their programs at nismonline.org.] Hear his story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does He Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, Google or Spotify. Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Chris on Twitter  Connect With Chris on LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest 

Alesia Hendley (@TheSmoothFactor on Twitter) is an audio-visual operator and multi-media journalist. She is a co-host for the Social Slice (learn more at socialslice.io) and has a passion for technology (especially audio-visual). Alesia was also recommended to the podcast by alum Brad Parler.  [The Why I Social Podcast is sponsored by the National Institute for Social Media (NISM). You can learn more about their programs at nismonline.org.] Hear her story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does She Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, Google or Spotify. Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Amy on Twitter  Connect With Amy on LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest 

Taking a break from the usual conversations taking place on Why I Social - this episode looks at the power of social media to do social good. It also calls back to the work of many of the alumni of the podcast who are doing good things and providing positive social influence to inform and educate others on important global conversations.  [The Why I Social Podcast is sponsored by the National Institute for Social Media (NISM). You can learn more about their programs at nismonline.org.] Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, Google or Spotify. Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Amy on Twitter  Connect With Amy on LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest 

Amy Jauman is the Chief Learning Officer at the National Institute for Social Media. Additionally, she serves as an adjunct professor in business and marketing at St. Catherine University and owns Remotely Smart. She has extensive experience with instruction from early-childhood education to adult education.  [The Why I Social Podcast is sponsored by the National Institute for Social Media (NISM). You can learn more about their programs at nismonline.org.] Hear her story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does She Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, Google or Spotify. Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Amy on Twitter  Connect With Amy on LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest 

Rob Zaleski is a Digital Content Marketer at ShippingEasy in Austin. In addition, he's the host of a new podcast, Keep Marketing Weird. Previous experiences also include time as Marketing Manager for Marketing Profs and Content Marketing Associate for Main Street Hub.  [The Why I Social Podcast is sponsored by the National Institute for Social Media (NISM). You can learn more about their programs at nismonline.org.] Hear his story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does He Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, Google or Spotify. Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Ryan on Twitter  Connect With Ryan on LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest 

Ryan Farrell is a Digital Marketing Specialist at Purdue University. He has been working in marketing since 2012 and holds a Bachelor of Arts in Public Relations from University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. He is the also proud father of three children.  [The Why I Social Podcast is sponsored by the National Institute for Social Media (NISM). You can learn more about their programs at nismonline.org.] Hear his story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does He Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, Google or Spotify. Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Ryan on Twitter  Connect with Ryan on Instagram Connect With Ryan on LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest 

Tess Kaytmaz currently works at Cross Fit Virtuosity in Brooklyn and is one of the most passionate people I've had the pleasure of meeting through social media (and previous guests, members of #SMUN). She has a background in social media - which she most recently has used to take on the challenge of mental health awareness. She is also a photographer and you'll find her active on Instagram at username tess_michael.  [The Why I Social Podcast is sponsored by the National Institute for Social Media (NISM). You can learn more about their programs at nismonline.org.] Hear her story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does She Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, Google or Spotify. Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Tess on Twitter  Connect with Tess on Instagram Connect With Tess on LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest 

Casie Shimansky is an award-winning social media strategist for Cisco's talent brand team. She is a previous guest on the show and the first to return as an alum for a regular episode of the podcast. It's also possible you follow her dog on Instagram.  [The Why I Social Podcast is sponsored by the National Institute for Social Media (NISM). You can learn more about their programs at nismonline.org.] Hear her story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does She Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, Google or Spotify. Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Katie on Twitter  Connect With Katie on LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest 

Katie Santo is Web Training and Content Support Specialist at New York University. She has previously worked at Apple as an in-store guest/trainer expert. She joins the show with an engaging Twitter presence that is both educational and embraces pop culture.  [The Why I Social Podcast is sponsored by the National Institute for Social Media (NISM). You can learn more about their programs at nismonline.org.] Hear her story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does She Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, Google or Spotify. Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Katie on Twitter  Connect With Katie on LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest 

Welcome to the eighth episode of Why I Social Sessions - where we bring you short discussions focused on one singular topic. This is not your standard Why I Social episode where we learn about a guest - but instead - we focus on important topics impacting the social media space today. Today, on Why I Social Sessions, Chris discusses the addition of a bookmark feature to Twitter.  On Episode 8  1. What is this feature and how do I use it? 2. What impact could this have on Twitter? Following the conversation: I'd encourage you to use the hashtag #WISSessions to share your thoughts on Twitter and Facebook.  This Week's Question(s):  Will you be using this feature?  Music for Why I Social Sessions is "Voice Over Under" by Kevin McCleod  "Voice Over Under" Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0/

Willis Williams is Digital Strategist for Dealer Authority. Originally from the Bronx, Williams currently lives in upstate New York and is active in the community volunteering at the Woodstock Film Festival. He is also an ambassador for Hootsuite.  [The Why I Social Podcast is sponsored by the National Institute for Social Media (NISM). You can learn more about their programs at nismonline.org.] Hear his story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does He Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, Google or Spotify. Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Willis on Twitter  Connect With Willis on LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest 

Justin Gatewood (@lightjump) is Web, SharePoint and Cloud Systems Administrator at Victor Valley College. He served as a member of the United States Navy from 1990 through 1995 as a Cryptologic Technician receiving the rank of Petty Officer Second Class.  He is the recipient of multiple awards professionally including the 2016 MetaHero Award for "Best In Business Process" - as well as multiple "Best of Track" awards at higher education conferences.  Hear her story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does He Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, Google or Spotify. Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Justin on Twitter  Connect With Justin on LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest  The Why I Social Podcast is sponsored by the National Institute for Social Media. You can learn more about their programs at nismonline.org.   

Before releasing the next episode of Why I Social - episode 152 - host Chris Barrows has a special announcement to make regarding the new sponsor of the podcast.  As the podcast has shifted focus - with a mission to really showcase people who not only social - but have stories that can impact and educate listeners - "education" has become a key term for the podcast.  With this in mind - Why I Social is proud to introduce it's new sponsor - the National Institute for Social Media. 

Jessica Matthews is the Digital Media Director for the First Lady of New York City. Her previous experience includes the New York Times and New York University. She also interned at Google before beginning her full-time career as a social media and digital marketing professional.    Hear her story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does She Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, Google or Spotify. Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Jessica on Twitter  Connect With Jessica on LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest  Interested in being a part of the Why I Social family? Why I Social is now accepting monthly episode sponsorship opportunities - inquire at @WhyISocial@gmail.com for additional information.   

On this week's episode, our hosts discover Ikea's new line of products - pregnancy tests. Also, GoPro is more like "oh no".  This week's Five Favorites:  1. Kodak announces its own cryptocurrency and watches stock price skyrocket [Verge - story by Shannon Liao] 2. Viacom snaps up influencer platform Whosay as it looks to bulk up branded content offering [The Drum - story by Rebecca Stewart] 3. Ikea Releases Ad That Doubles As A Pregnancy Test and Reveals Crib Discount [Independent - Story by Chelsea Ritschel] 4. GoPro cuts 200-300 jobs, largely impacting its drone division [Techcrunch - story by Matt Burns & Brian Heater] 5. Hot Topic: Hot Topic: News Feed FYI: Bringing People Together [Facebook Blog - Post by Adam Mosseri] Honorable Mention Stranger Things' David Harbour just made these yearbook pictures [Twitter Moments]  DISHonorable Mention  False Alarm in Hawaii [The Verge] Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @kenyatta Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature).

Dr. Josie Ahlquist is a digital leadership educator (josieahlquist.com), teacher and speaker. She has been in education since 2003 including 12 years working at the university level. She currently serves as Research Associate and Instructor at Florida State University and has been named the "Top 50 Must-Read Higher Education Technology blog" by Ed Tech Magazine three times since 2013.  Hear her story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does She Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, or Google  Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Josie on Twitter  Connect With Josie on LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest  Interested in being a part of the Why I Social family? Why I Social is now accepting monthly episode sponsorship opportunities - inquire at @WhyISocial@gmail.com for additional information.   

On this week's episode, (spoiler) we somehow end up discussing our favorite fruits. Also, "Bright" really wasn't that bad and is "a lot better than Suicide Squad."  This week's Five Favorites:  1. Iran blocks encrypted messaging apps amid nationwide protests [Verge - story by Russell Brandom] 2. Exclusive: Spotify files for its IPO [Axios - story by Dan Primack]  3. Netflix’s ‘Bright’ reached 11M viewers in its first three days, according to Nielsen [Techcrunch - story by Anthony Ha]   4. Facebook Just Created More Ad Inventory - Through Instagram [AdAge - story by George Slefo]  5. (Hot Topic) Logan Paul Honorable Mention FCC Chairman Ajit Pai’s CES appearance has been canceled [Techcrunch] DISHonorable Mention  Los Angeles Man Arrested for "swatting call" results in man's death [USA Today]  Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @Netflix Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature).

On this week's episode, Amir and Chris look back at 2017 and poorly attempt to predict the future. We assume it's poorly because we haven't seen the future yet - so they could in-fact be prophets. Also, that dude who scheduled six dates in one night returns to the show - find out why!  Note: This episode was recorded on Thursday, December 28th This week's Five Favorites:  1. Apple Is Developing an EKG Heart Monitor for Its Smartwatch [Bloomberg - story by Alex Webb] 2. Twitter's Adding More Notification Types to Boost Awareness and Engagement [Social Media Today - story by Andrew Hutchinson]  3. Library of Congress Reins in Twitter Archives Project [Washington Times - story by Andrew Blake] 4. 10 Ways Tech Will Shape Your Life (for better or worse) [Washington Post - story by Geoffrey A. Fowler]  5. (Hot Topic) Amir and Chris' Top Social, Marketing and Technology Stories and Trends Honorable Mention(s) Bye Black bars [The Verge] DISHonorable Mention of the Year Guy Who Scheduled 6 Dates In One Night Was Kicked Out of Another Bar for Allegedly Hitting On All The Women [Washingtonian]  Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week   @chrissyteigen (has since then changed to a "private" twitter) Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature).

On this week's episode, host Chris Barrows (@CBarrows) goes off-the-cuff to take a look back at 2017, shares some of his favorite episodes (5, of course) and looks forward to 2018.  Favorite Episodes include (in no particular order): Liz Gross (Episode 144) Jenn Patel (Episode 139)  Matt Marcinek (Episode 128) Danny Vecchiarelli (Episode 109)  New episodes with great guests doing awesome things on social return in January! If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest  Interested in being a part of the Why I Social family? Why I Social is now accepting monthly - inquire at @WhyISocial@gmail.com for additional information.   

On this week's episode, it's basically a holiday episode. Only, no holiday music - because of music rights and stuff. Or time. You decide the reason. Also, the truth is out there.  Note: This episode was recorded on Thursday, December 21st.  This week's Five Favorites:  1. HQ Trivia’s founders are facing fundraising roadblocks after investors learned of alleged bad behavior [Recode - story by Kurt Wagner] 2. Forrester: YouTube is most popular social site for 12- to 17-year-olds [Social Media Today - story by David Kirkpatrick]  3. Apple confirms iPhones with older batteries will take hits in performance [The Verge - story by Tom Warren and Nick Statt] 4. Magic Leap finally unveils augmented reality goggles, says it’s shipping next year [The Verge - story by Adi Robertson]  5. (Hot Topic) Eric Schmidt to become technical advisor to Alphabet [ABC Blog]  Honorable Mention(s) Instagram Testing Photos Posts to Multiple Accounts [Matt Navarra] DISHonorable Mention(s) Amazon Files for "AmazonTube" Trademark [TechCrunch]  Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @Astrobull67  Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature).

On this week's episode, Amazon and Google have less beef. It's kind of like a sequel in the way The Last Jedi is a sequel to The Force Awakens. Also, we don't spoil The Last Jedi - in case that was some sort of a concern of yours.  This week's Five Favorites:  1.  Apple's iMac Pro arrives December 14, starting at $4,999 [TechCrunch - story by Brian Heater] 2. Storify Is Shutting Down [The Verge - story by Shannon Liao] 3. Feds reportedly spent 22 million on Mysterious UFO Program [CNET - story by Steven Musil] 4. Amazon to start selling Apple TV and Google Chromecast [CNET - story by Ben Fox Rubin]  5. (Hot Topic) Here are the films and TV shows Disney would get from Fox [Polygon - story by Samit Sarkar]  Honorable Mention(s) Anheuser-Busch Orders 40 Electric Self-Driving Semi-Trucks from Tesla [Adweek] DISHonorable Mention(s)  #Netneutality (not Neutrality) trends on Twitter [Tweet sharing story by CNET]  Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @Monte_Colorman Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature).

Chad Jennings is a beat writer and columnist for the Boston Herald. He previously has written for the Journal News (NY) and the Scranton Times-Tribune (Scranton). He currently covers the Boston Red Sox for the Herald and social plays a large role in that coverage.  Hear his story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does He Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, or Google  Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Chad on Twitter  Connect With Chad on LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest  Interested in being a part of the Why I Social family? Why I Social is now accepting monthly - inquire at @WhyISocial@gmail.com for additional information.   

On this week's episode, Amazon and Google have some beef. Also, it's pretty clear beef if on Zonozi's mind.  This week's Five Favorites:  1. Apple's App of the Year Makes Sense If You've Been Paying Attention to the News [Slate] 2. Early Data Shows Tweets Are A Hit With Users [Buzzfeed]  3. Google is pulling YouTube off the FireTV and Echo Show as feud with Amazon grows [The Verge] 4. Hilton rolling out mobile-controlled hotel rooms in 2018 [ZDNet] 5. (Hot Topic) Sprout Social Acquires Simply Measured  Honorable Mention(s) Instagram Adds Story Highlights and Archives [Instagram Blog] DISHonorable Mention(s) A iPhone case that helps you capture engagement reaction on video [featured on The Verge's Instagram] Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @jonmorosi Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature).  Special thanks to listener Chris Bryant for sharing this week. 

On this week's episode, Amir and Chris break down what's up with this whole "Bitcoin" thing. Also, it's supersized. An extra 10 minutes just because we like you - or we had a lot to say - you decide.  This week's Five Favorites:  1. Apple's had a shockingly bad week of software problems [The Verge] 2. YouTube is launching its own take on Stories with a new video format called ‘Reels’ [TechCrunch] 3. Denver to Boulder in eight minutes? Colorado will get first test track for a Hyperloop-inspired transportation system [Denver Post] 4. How Snapchat is separating social from media [Axios] 5. (Hot Topic) All You Need to Know About Bitcoin's Rise, From $0.01 to $11,000 [Bloomberg] Honorable Mention(s) New screenshots tip a ton of new Instagram features, including 'close friends' [Mashable] DISHonorable Mention(s) The feds want Martin Shkreli’s one-of-a-kind Wu Tang album [The Verge] Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  Giants fans on the "IR" Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature).  Special thanks to listener Chris Bryant for sharing this week. 

This week's episode is a bit of a callback - as alumni from previous episodes returned to give thanks - and props - to those in the space who have inspired them.  Note: My sincere apologies for the delay on this week's episode. In light of being sick, I didn't realize it never went out as scheduled. My gratitude for understanding.  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, or Google  Follow at @WhyISocial. If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest  Interested in being a part of the Why I Social family? inquire at @WhyISocial@gmail.com for additional information. 

On this week's episode, Amir and Chris confess their Black Friday purchases. Also, our hosts debate the intention behind a recent McDonald's tweet.  Where do you stand? Also, what did you buy on Black Friday this year? Let us know using #FiveFavorites on Twitter.  This week's Five Favorites:  1. Twitter testing a feature that shows how many are ‘talking about’ tweets [TechCrunch] 2. Facebook Confirms Testing of Snapchat Style Streaks Feature [CNet] 3. 'Guardians of the Galaxy Vol. 2' Gets 4K Mention on iTunes, Suggesting Disney's 4K Holdout May Be Ending [MacRumors] 4. People driving while playing Pokémon Go caused millions in damages in 148 days [The Verge] 5. (Hot Topic) Black Friday racks up $5.03B in online sales, $2B on mobile alone [TechCrunch] Honorable Mention(s) LinkedIn's CEO surprised an employee with a selfie at her desk while she was away on vacation [Business Insider UK)  DISHonorable Mention(s) See Five Favorites Tweet of the Week - we promise it will make sense.  Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @mcDonaldsCorp Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature).  Special thanks to listener Chris Bryant for sharing this week. 

On this week's episode, we got deals. LOTS OF DEALZ. Also, Paris Hilton claims she invented the selfie. We have strong feelings on such a claim.  This week's Five Favorites:  1. Twitter’s new premium APIs give developers access to more tweets, higher rate limits [VentureBeat] 2. Twitter Confirms it’s Testing a tweetstorm feature [TechCrunch] 3. Black Friday 2017 Tech Deals [The Verge] 4. Microsoft Rolls Out LinkedIn Integrations in Outlook [TechCrunch] 5. (Hot Topic) Tesla News Galore Tesla Semi-Truck Announced World's Fastest Car? Meet the New Roadster Honorable Mention(s) We Used the App That Reveals What Women Look Like Without Their Makeup on the Man Who Created It [LinkedIn Blog] DISHonorable Mention(s) Paris Hilton Claims to have invented the selfie [Twitter Moments]  Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @adampknave Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature).  Special thanks to listener Chris Bryant for sharing this week. 

Dr. Liz Gross is the Founding Director of Campus Sonar. As far as social listening goes, she is one of the most respected persons in the social media industry and higher education. She also serves as an instructor for Karine Joly's Higher Ed Experts.   Hear her story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does She Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, or Google  Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Liz on Twitter  Connect With Liz on LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest  Interested in being a part of the Why I Social family? Why I Social is now accepting monthly - inquire at @WhyISocial@gmail.com for additional information.   

On this week's episode, Amir admits he's never watched, Harry Potter.  Also, Sean Parker is at it (again).  This week's Five Favorites:  1. Sean Parker unloads on Facebook: “God only knows what it's doing to our children's brains” [Axios] 2. The Magic of Harry Potter is Coming to a Neighborhood Near You   [NianticLabs] 3. Snap CEO Evan Spiegel is redesigning Snapchat because it’s too hard to use [Recode] 4. Disney Lays Down the Law for Theaters on “Star Wars - The Last Jedi” [WSJ] 5. (Hot Topic) China’s Toutiao is buying Musical.ly in a deal worth $800M-$1B [TechCrunch] Honorable Mention(s) Creating Your Resume Just Got a Whole Lot Easier with Microsoft and LinkedIn [LinkedIn Blog] DISHonorable Mention(s) Facebook trialing system to combat revenge porn – but you have to upload your nudes … [9 to 5 Mac]  Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @Indiequick Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature). 

On this week's episode, Amir is operating on shoddy wifi. Also, the episode went up a day late. It's the internet's fault. It was supposed to go on time. We don't make excuses here though. It's late. Want to fight about it? We don't - we're peaceful co-hosts. Hopefully, if you've even read this far, you've forgiven us by now.  This week's Five Favorites:  1. Apple fires iPhone X engineer after daughter’s hands-on video goes viral [The Verge] 2. Q&A: The Stranger Things Kids on Their Social, Streaming and Gaming Obsessions  [AdWeek] 3. YouTube’s cable cutter option rolls out to XBox One and other smart TVs [The Next Web] 4. Daydream’s Chromecast support leaves Oculus VR in the dust [Venturebeat] 5. (Hot Topic) The X Box One X - Everything You Need To Know  [Gamespot] Honorable Mention(s) Google CEO makes fixing hamburger emoji his top priority [The Verge] DISHonorable Mention(s) Microsoft Engineer forced to install Chrome mid presentation [The Next Web]  Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @DavidKHarbour Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature). 

C.C. Chapman is a freelance creative and marketing consultant. He is also the host (and producer) of the Why I Write podcast in conjunction with the National Council of Teachers of English. In addition to his consultation work and podcasting, C.C. is also an Adjunct Professor of Marketing and Communications at Bentley University Hear their story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does He Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, or Google  Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with C.C. on Twitter  Connect With C.C. on LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest  Interested in being a part of the Why I Social family? Why I Social is now accepting monthly - inquire at @WhyISocial@gmail.com for additional information.   

On this week's episode, Chris is preparing for a party with Mickey Mouse. It's possible Bezos visited his home while he was away. Also, Super Mario Odyssey is getting some super reviews.  This week's Five Favorites:  1. Trump to Open Skies to More Drone Testing [NYT] 2. Designing 'Super Mario Odyssey': Nintendo re-invents a gaming icon [CNN] 3. New York To Replace Metrocard with Modern Way to Pay Transit Fares [NYT] 4. Twitter stock surges more than 18 percent as it nears first profitable quarter [CNBC] 5. (Hot Topic) Amazon Key Is Bigger Than Package Delivery [Gizmodo] Honorable Mention(s) Instagram - two person live streams [Product Hunt] DISHonorable Mention(s) US Air Force Tweets Santa Isn't Real [Gizmodo]  Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @alyankovic Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature). 

On this week's episode, Amir prepares to beat all odds in order to get a new iPhone (and he tells you how you can too). Also, we got food puns.  This week's Five Favorites:  1. How to preorder an iPhone X the right way [Cult of Mac] 2. AMC is launching its own VR app with a 360-degree scene from The Walking Dead [The Verge] 3. The BBC is turning to AI to improve its programming [Engadget] 4. How big is Twitter Moments? [Balaji S. Srinivasan] 5. (Hot Topic) Service Industries and Creative Social Honorable Mention(s) Snap is selling a dancing hot dog costume on Amazon [TechCrunch] DISHonorable Mention(s) LinkedIn May Consider Developing Original Shows [The Information] Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @KarenVaites Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature). 

Matt Matkovich and Phil Januszewski make up the team behind M&P Presentations. Matt is a full-time high school guidance counselor and Phil is a full-time high school chemistry/physics teacher.  Together, they form M&P Presentations who offer motivational presentations, professional workshops, master of ceremony services, and event hosting for all ages and groups.  Hear their story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does Their Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, or Google  Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with M&P Presentations on Twitter  Connect With Matt on LinkedIn.  Connect with Phil on LinkedIn.   If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest  Interested in being a part of the Why I Social family? Why I Social is now accepting monthly - inquire at @WhyISocial@gmail.com for additional information.   

On this week's episode, we discuss our favorite Mario Kart 64 characters. Also, seriously, Porgs. Love them. Hate them. You gotta have an opinion on them! And if you don't know what a Porg is, well, we can't be friends.  This week's Five Favorites:  1. Alphabet is training law enforcement on how to handle self-driving car crashes [Recode] Official 43 page PDF document 2. Twitter Users Will Soon Be Able To Bookmark Tweets and Save Them For Later [Adweek] Recommended using #FiveFavorites by Patrick Jervis 3. Nintendo could be working on a Game Boy Classic Mini [Mobile Syrup] 4 Apple Leak Reveals Massive New iPhone Cancellation [Forbes] 5. (Hot Topic) Snapchat Is Twice as Popular as Instagram When It Comes to Teens’ Favorite Social Apps [Adweek] Honorable Mention(s)  Beware of Apple ID Prompts in Third Party Apps [Cult of Mac]  DISHonorable Mention(s) Mark Zuckerberg’s VR trip to Puerto Rico is the height of tastelessness [The Next Web] Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @jameswb94 Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature). 

On this week's (very special) second episode, we cover all the new announcements Google's latest Pixel/IO event! We're talking all things Pixel 2, Google Home Mini (and Max) and more! Also, Amir is really excited about AI. We're talking more than he is about drones normally.  This is not your standard episode of Five Favorites!  Topics Discussed:  1. Pixel 2 and Pixel 2 XL 2. Home Mini and Max 3. Pixelbook 4. Pixel Buds 5. Google Clip Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature). 

On this week's episode, we say goodbye to our friend AOL Instant Messenger. Also, our hosts remember their old instant messenger names.  What was/were yours?  This week's Five Favorites:  1. Selfie Factories: The Rise of the Made-for-Instagram Museum [Wired] 2. 5G isn't just faster - it will open a whole new world [Venturebeat]  3. Netflix is Raising its Prices [@Mashable] 4 An MLB Team is using the iPhone's NFC Feature for Contactless Stadium Entry [TechCrunch] 5. One Last Away Message [AOL Instant Messenger Tumblr]  Honorable Mention(s) Star Wars: The Last Jedi Trailer to Debut During Halftime on ESPN’s Monday Night Football DISHonorable Mention(s) Amazon's new iPhone Dongle is now cheaper than Belkin's  Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  Twitter - via a Twitter moment Original tweet by @MaddieJo_13 Recommended using #FiveFavorites by Patrick Jervis Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature). 

Rachel Thompson is the founder of BadRedhead Media. Prior to founding BadRedHeadmedia (@BadRedheadMedia), she also worked as a Senior pharma rep and sales trainer. She has been a consistent blogger and currently serves as a Founding Director for presentHER.  In addition, she runs the #Sexabusechat - in an issue that is both very close and personal to her.  Hear his story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does She Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, or Google  Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Rachel on Twitter and LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest  Interested in being a part of the Why I Social family? Why I Social is currently considering sponsors - inquire at @WhyISocial@gmail.com for additional information.   

On this week's episode, we highly recommend you turn off your Alexa device prior to the hot topic. Also, Chris is excited that a Jedi liked his tweet this week.  This week's Five Favorites:  1. Twitter to Test Doubling Tweet Length to 280 Characters [NYTimes] 2. ELON MUSK'S ROCKET TRAVEL PLAN IS DEF POSSIBLE, DEF BANANAS [Wired] 3. Instagram Now Has 500 Million Daily Active Users, 800 Million Users per Month [Variety] 4. Walmart partners with smart lock maker August to test in-home delivery of packages and groceries [TechCrunch]  5. Hot Topic: Amazon Echo Event Recap *includes information from The Verge and Android Central Honorable Mention(s) Kid Walks Into A Gamestop, Two NFL Players Buy Him An XBox DISHonorable Mention(s) Apple now sells an iPhone dongle with a headphone jack and charging port Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @TheEllenShow Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature). 

Jason Shemmel is Social Media Manager for HarperCollins Christian Publishing. He's also the host of the Get S*** done Podcast. In addition to these roles, he's also a moderator for Social media Marketing (a group with over 1,600,000 members on LinkedIn) and recently returned from #CMWorld.  Hear his story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does He Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, or Google  Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Jason on Twitter and LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest  Interested in being a part of the Why I Social family? Why I Social is currently considering sponsors - inquire at @WhyISocial@gmail.com for additional information.   

On this week's episode, Google makes a (few) appearances prior to its October 4th event. Also, Chris has a new addition to announce!  This week's Five Favorites:  1. Nest’s home security system costs $499 and comes with magnetic door sensors [The Verge] 2. Meet The Really Cheap Google Home Mini and the really expensive Chromebook Pixel 3 [ARS Technica] 3. Bose adds Google Assistant to top noise-canceling headphone [CNet] 4. Apple Watch Series 3 has LTE problems: How to cancel your preorder [VentureBeat] 5. Hot Topic: Why Google is spending $1.1 billion to ‘acqhire’ 2,000 HTC engineers [Recode] Honorable Mention(s) Netflix Sent the Best Cease-and-Desist Letter to This Unauthorized Stranger Things Bar DISHonorable Mention(s) Facebook’s reliance on software algorithms keeps getting the company into trouble Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @HamillHimself Suggested by Martin Lieberman  Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature). 

Jason Eng works at IBM on Developer Communications and Influencer Engagement. He previously worked at Sony for over 10 years. He has clear beliefs in the way he uses social media and is one of the most engaging guests to join the podcast in recent weeks. It also turns out that he met host Chris Barrows - in 2015 - before Chris even knew it!  Hear his story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does He Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, or Google  Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Jason on Twitter and LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest  Interested in being a part of the Why I Social family? Why I Social is currently considering sponsors - inquire at @WhyISocial@gmail.com for additional information.   

On this week's (very special) second episode, we cover all the new announcements from Apple's latest Keynote event including the new Apple X (that's ten, not an X). Don't try to tell someone in an Apple Store otherwise. This is not your standard episode of Five Favorites!  Topics Discussed:  1. New Apple Park HQ 2. Apple Watch 3 Series GPS + Cellular 3. Apple TV 4K 4. Apple iPhone 8 Apple + iPhone 8 Plus 5. Apple iPhone X 6. AirPower Wireless Charging Mat Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature). 

On this week's episode, we are equally amused and disturbed by what people search after viewing the latest Super Mario video game trailer. Also, there's no Apple here - stay tuned later today for a special Five Favorites Apple Keynote episode!  This week's Five Favorites:  1. GoPro Hero 6 Black leaks again, will shoot 240 fps slow motion at 1080p [The Verge] 2. Google’s Next Pixel Smartphones Arrive October 4th [Engadget] 3. Nike and the NBA unveil connected jerseys… and they’re super cool [TechCrunch] 4. SHOCK DATA: Thousands React to Mario’s Nipples in Super Mario Odyssey Promotion [Brandwatch] (thanks to Five Favorite's listener, Jeff Higgins, for the heads-up)  5. Hot Topic: Google and Alphabet Poised To Invest $1 Billion In Lyft [Gas2] Honorable Mention(s) No More Autoplay Video in Chrome  DISHonorable Mention(s) Alibaba Founder Jack Ma Has Set a New Bar for Tech CEO Weirdness  Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @ComicPrintUK Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature). 

Brett Pucino is a Brand Strategist and Career Brand Consultant at Breakthrough Career Coaching. In addition to his work as career services professional, he also works as a ghostwriter. He has been interested in writing since he was young and has proven to be a skilled one both digitally and in-print (though you may not have even known you've read this work!).  Hear his story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does He Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, or Google  Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Brett on Twitter and LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest  Interested in being a part of the Why I Social family? Why I Social is currently considering sponsors - inquire at @WhyISocial@gmail.com for additional information.   

On this week's episode, your hosts kick-off the new season of Five Favorites! Also, Chris debates whether Apple's new facial unlock will be able to tell if it's him with and without makeup.  This week's Five Favorites:  1. New iPhone names are reportedly iPhone X, iPhone 8, iPhone 8 Plus [CNet] 2. Settlers of Catan is ready for virtual reality [VentureBeat] 3. Even more US adults now getting news from social media, says Pew [TechCrunch] 4. Drones Play Increasing Role in Harvey Recovery Efforts [Wall Street Journal] 5. Hot Topic: [CNet] Honorable Mention(s) Tesla flips a switch to increase the range of some cars in Florida to help people evacuate [TechCrunch] DISHonorable Mention(s) A bunch of pranksters (as per Lilitz Borough Police Department) Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @Madonna Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature). 

Jennifer Patel is Senior Director (of Community Development) for Union Health (LLC). With a current professional focus on training and community, I had the pleasure of running into Jenn at Innocon in New York City. In addition to her time in community development, Patel has also worked at St. John's and Hofstra University.  Hear her story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does She Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, or Google  Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Jenn on Twitter and LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest  Interested in being a part of the Why I Social family? Why I Social is currently considering sponsors - inquire at @WhyISocial@gmail.com for additional information.   

On this week's episode, we celebrate one year of the Five Favorites podcast. Also, Zonozi gets ready to tie the knot! If you aren't driving - bust out a drink for this one - and let's celebrate.  This week's Five Favorites:  1. YouTube gets a new logo, Material Design on desktop, and more mobile app features [VentureBeat] 2. Instagram Posts With Multiple Photos Can now be Portrait or Landscape [AdWeek]  3. Here’s everything we learned from Uber’s first all-staff meeting with its new CEO today [Recode] 4. Google ARCore Brings Augmented Reality to Android [VRScout]  5. Hot Topic: Microsoft and Amazon partner to integrate Alexa and Cortana digital assistants [The Verge]  Honorable Mention(s) Amazon Cuts Whole Foods Prices as Much as 43% on First Day [Bloomberg] DISHonorable Mention(s) Our favorite picks of the first season Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @PJWiss Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature). 

Jackie Vetrano is the Social Media Coordinator for Skidmore College. In addition to being a member of host Chris Barrows' eduWeb team this year, she has also served as Customer Service Manager (for Merit Inc.) and has worked in social media since 2013. Hear her story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does She Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, Google and Otto Radio.  Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Jackie on Twitter and LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest  The Why I Social podcast is brought to you by Zoomph. Learn more at Zoomph.com  

On this week's episode, we anticipate our one-year anniversary episode next week. Also, we get a bit passionate about the state of influencer marketing. Just a little bit, though (that's what she said).  This week's Five Favorites:  1. We might know the iPhone 8 keynote date [Cult Of Mac] 2. SNES Classic pre-orders are skipping Toys R Us [SlashGear]  3. Introducing Linkedin Video [LinkedIn] 4. Android O is now officially Android Oreo [The Verge]  5. Hot Topic: Samsung Galaxy Note Announces Features, Price and Release Date [The Verge]  Honorable Mention(s) Twitter helps flood victims in Houston [USA Today] As an aside, our thoughts and prayers to all those who have been impacted.  DISHonorable Mention(s) "My Eyes Hurt" search on Google following eclipse [The Next Web]  Five Favorites' Tweet(s) of The Week  @damoon_ @simoncholland Use the hashtag #FiveFavorites to share YOUR favorite stories each and every week - and YOU may be included on the show (including our new tweet of the week feature). 

Cat Trestini is a freelance social media strategist living in the Orlando area. Cat's New Jersey roots remain strong - including her time at Rutgers - and has made a major impact on her career.  She also recently returned from Joel Renner (Episode 29)'s latest Social Roadtrip.  Hear her story on this week's episode. And of course, Why Does She Social?!  Share your thoughts on this week's episode with #WhyISocial Subscribe on iTunes, Stitcher Radio, Google and Otto Radio.  Follow at @WhyISocial. Connect with Cat on Twitter and LinkedIn.  If you know someone who deserves their story told, let me know! Tweet me at @CBarrows or @WhyISocial using #WhyISocialGuest  The Why I Social podcast is brought to you by Zoomph. Learn more at Zoomph.com