Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast

Somewhere on Earth
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Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast

Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast is a weekly podcast that looks at technology and how it impacts our daily lives. We tell the untold tech stories from Somewhere on Earth. We don’t do new toys and gadgets, but look at new trends, new tech and new ways we use that tech in our everyday lives. We discuss how the ever evolving digital world is changing our culture and our societies, but we don’t shy away from the news of the day, looking at the tech behind the top stories affecting our world.   Find a story + Make it News = Change the World.

  1. 2 DAYS AGO

    Can Kiswahili online content be moderated?

    Can Kiswahili online content be moderated? It appears that 2025 will see a significant shift in content moderation practices, as Meta plans to eliminate independent fact-checkers on Facebook and Instagram.  This change may suggest a decline in standards, particularly in regions that have historically experienced limited online moderation. In many parts of Africa, small content teams have been tasked with overseeing entire countries or regions. Interestingly, while there are numerous content moderators in Africa, they are primarily employed as outsourced workers to assist with content moderation for major platforms based in the United States. These jobs are often mis-advertised too – with no warning about the harmful content moderators will be forced to watch.  A report by the Center for Democracy and Technology “Moderating Kiswahili content on Social Media” has looked at why it’s so difficult to moderate posts in Kiswahili.     The Strettons Podcast The Strettons podcast proudly claims the title of the United Kingdom's inaugural dedicated village podcast. This initiative targets a collection of small villages located in the picturesque rural county of Shropshire, just next to Wales. While it may seem like yet another addition to the podcasting landscape—perhaps one you have already encountered and subscribed to—there is an intriguing technological narrative behind it, as shared by the presenters and producers, Sian Lovegrove and Pete Johnson who are on the show.   The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Wairimu Gitahi.   More on this week's stories: Moderating Kiswahili content on Social Meda More than 140 Kenya Facebook moderators diagnosed with severe PTSD The Strettons Podcast   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For new episodes, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram Twitter/X   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    35 min

  2. 14 JAN

    Capturing shooting stars with your doorbell cam

    Capturing shooting stars with your doorbell cam We’ve had the first meteor shower of 2025 – you may have missed it but your doorbell cam may have recorded it. The Quadrantids shower has captivated both amateur and professional astronomers, some of whom are now working together to find the meteors once they land on the Earth’s surface. When this occurs, there is a strong likelihood that the aptly named UK Fireball Alliance will identify them. This alliance consolidates images and videos from various sources, including doorbell cameras, dash-cams, security systems, and professional telescopes. The primary objective is to issue a comprehensive alert to scientists, indicating where they can locate the fallen meteors. Gareth met with Luke Daly, a lecturer in planetary geoscience at the University of Glasgow. He is also the treasurer of the UK Fireball Alliance and is on the show to tell us more.   EdTech Apps – are they any good? The EdTech App market is worth billions of dollars a year but many of these apps are, in fact, counterproductive and may be causing more harm than good. That’s according to an Educational Technology researcher who has recently expressed her concerns in the journal Nature. Natalia Kucirkova, the Director of the International Centre for EdTech Impact and a professor at the University of Stavanger in Norway, is concerned that educational institutions, along with families, are squandering resources on apps that do not yield effective results. As she tells Gareth, better testing of these apps is needed, as is a certification process to identify those that are truly beneficial to children.   The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Angelica Mari.   More on this week's stories: UK Fireball Alliance Educational apps are worth billions. We need to make sure they work   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For new episodes, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or via this link for the PodExtra: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram Twitter/X Bluesky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484  Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    34 min

  3. 7 JAN

    How to keep your data safe when protesting

    How to keep your data safe when protesting The government of Georgia is set to deport 25 foreign nationals who were involved in protests that occurred late last year. This information has been reported by several news outlets referencing the Interior Ministry of Georgia. The demonstrations arose in response to the parliamentary elections held in the country. Considering the protests and the subsequent actions taken by the authorities, the digital rights organisation Access Now has issued a series of cybersecurity recommendations for individuals participating in peaceful demonstrations. During a protest, particularly if the situation escalates, it can be challenging to focus on cybersecurity when personal safety is at stake. Therefore, Access Now's guidance emphasizes the importance of securing one's devices prior to attending a protest. Much of the advice provided consists of fundamental digital hygiene practices that everyone should adopt, which is why we invited Access Now onto our podcast at the start of the year, a time when many are looking to establish positive habits. Mohammed Al-Maskati serves as the Director of the Digital Security Helpline at Access Now and is on the show. New Year, New Tech Resolutions The team discuss their New Year’s Tech Resolutions – and ask for yours in return. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Angelica Mari. More on this week's stories: Access Now – Digital Safety Tips for Peaceful Gatherings Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz For new episodes, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or via this link for the PodExtra edition: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram BlueSky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts or Spotify Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    37 min

  4. 1 JAN

    Your favourite SOEP shows from 2024

    Your favourite SOEP shows from 2024 Thank you for all your suggestions and comments; we have selected the most popular choices and put them together in our final show of 2024. From our special programme with Jimmy Wales, to the reliability of French language chatbots, we look at what you thought were our best bits of the year.   The PodExtra - The Creator Economy This week we have a completely new episode for our paid for subscribers. Angelica Mari hosted a Podcast Live at Web Summit in Lisbon where she discussed the evolving landscape of the creator economy, focusing on the challenges and opportunities faced by content creators. She highlighted the importance of monetisation, the role of data, and the potential of immersive experiences in driving sales. But there's more to the creator economy - even though the push for more and more contact is great, ethical considerations (especially the need for authenticity and responsible use of technology), are vital to keep up trust with subscribers and clients. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories:  Somewhere on Earth Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz Audio: Ion Minas Belesis at All is Joy Studios in London For new episodes, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or via this link for additional subscription extra material: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram Bluesky If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    36 min

  5. 25/12/2024

    Biometrics – do we have a choice in who has this data and how they use it?

    Biometrics – do we have a choice in who has this data and how they use it? This week we dive deep into the world of biometrics, with a particular focus on facial recognition technology. What is the current state of facial recognition, and why are legal experts and privacy advocates so concerned? Additionally, we’ll explore the realm of health data; is there a necessary compromise between collecting our biometric information for improved health outcomes and safeguarding our privacy? Or can we find a way to achieve both? Joining us is Dr. Stephanie Hare, the author of Technology is Not Neutral: A Short Guide to Technology Ethics. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ghislaine Boddington. More on this week's stories: Dr. Stephanie Hare   Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz Audio: All is Joy Studios For new episodes, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram Twitter/X   If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    31 min

  6. 17/12/2024

    How technology led to the rise of HTS and the fall of Assad in Syria

    How technology led to the rise of HTS and the fall of Assad in Syria HTS presented the removal of a brutal dictatorship that had lasted for five decades as a straightforward task accomplished in a matter of days. Currently, the Islamist group Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has assumed control in Syria, while former president Bashar al-Assad reportedly resides in Russia. Although the narrative often emphasizes the use of armoured vehicles and firearms, many analyses overlook the significant impact of technology on HTS's achievements, including innovations such as 3D printing and drones. To explore this topic in greater depth, we will engage in a discussion with Broderick McDonald, a researcher specializing in conflict at King’s College London. Our demand for nickel is destroying a way of life in Indonesia Peter Guest, one of Somewhere on Earth’s regular studio experts, has been on the nickel trail in Indonesia He provides a firsthand account of the environmental repercussions associated with the nickel sector, which supplies components for electric vehicles on our roads. Peter has undertaken a 2,000-kilometer journey across Sulawesi, examining the detrimental impacts of the nickel industry on both the environment and human rights. This investigation was for the Gecko Project. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Peter Guest. More on this week's stories: Broderick McDonald Dust Money Production Manager: Liz Tuohy Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz Audio: Ion Minas Belesis at All is Joy Studios in London For new episodes, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on: Join our Facebook group Instagram Linkedin Bluesky YouTube If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    31 min

  7. 10/12/2024

    Protecting submarine cables, how the big players are now involved

    Protecting submarine cables, how the big players are now involved Submarine fibre optic cables are responsible for carrying 99% of the world's internet traffic yet they are often subject to damage. Therefore, it is fortunate that a coordinated organisation exists to ensure the resilience of these essential cables. Gareth and Ania discuss why this has only been set up recently. Proton – from VPN’s to data encryption – a different approach to other tech companies The company’s website states “A better internet starts with privacy and freedom - take control of your data with end-to-end encryption”, but what does this actually mean? The tech company Proton is already providing free VPN’s in more than 60 countries that are holding elections this year. And in addition it has also launched end to end encryption document sharing, as well as a local AI to respond to your emails – all without ever having access to your data. Ania Lichtarowicz caught up with CEO and Founder of Proton Andy Yen at Web Summit. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories: ITU – Submarine Cable Resilience Proton Ediitor: Ania Lichtarowicz Production Manager: Liz Tuohy For new episodes, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram Twitter/X If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    34 min

  8. 04/12/2024

    A new feeding robot could return people’s independence at mealtimes

    A new feeding robot could return people’s independence at mealtimes A group of friends is enjoying lunch together, however one of the friends is unable to use their arms so rely on a carer help them eat. Now a new robot – called FIDI – could return their independence at mealtimes. A robotic arm positioned on the table automatically delivers food to their mouth, using AI and cameras to adapt to the user’s movements and behaviours, ensuring that the food reaches its intended destination—the person’s mouth. Ania saw FIDI in action at Web Summit where she met Krzysztof Stelmach, the CEO of Semi Robotics and FIDI’s creator. AI and its influence on history and religion Imagine the possibility of immersing yourself in a biblical scene or engaging in a direct conversation with a deity from another religious tradition. Alternatively, consider visiting an ancient landmark, such as the Colosseum in Rome, and experiencing life as the Romans did while interacting with a chatbot. Professor Sreevas Sahasranamam, from the Adam Smith Business School at the University of Glasgow is on the show to tell us more. The programme is presented by Gareth Mitchell and the studio expert is Ania Lichtarowicz. More on this week's stories: FIDI – The feeding robot AI, history and religion Editor: Ania Lichtarowicz Production Manager: Liz Tuohy For new episodes, subscribe wherever you get your podcasts or via this link: https://somewhere-on-earth-the-global-tech-podcast-the-podextra-edition.pod.fan/ Follow us on all the socials: Join our Facebook group Instagram Twitter/X If you like Somewhere on Earth, please rate and review it on Apple Podcasts Contact us by email: hello@somewhereonearth.co Send us a voice note: via WhatsApp: +44 7486 329 484 Find a Story + Make it News = Change the World Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    35 min
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Somewhere on Earth: The Global Tech Podcast is a weekly podcast that looks at technology and how it impacts our daily lives. We tell the untold tech stories from Somewhere on Earth. We don’t do new toys and gadgets, but look at new trends, new tech and new ways we use that tech in our everyday lives. We discuss how the ever evolving digital world is changing our culture and our societies, but we don’t shy away from the news of the day, looking at the tech behind the top stories affecting our world.   Find a story + Make it News = Change the World.

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