This was my third time attending SXSW, and it keeps getting better.
Every year I come back re-energized — not just by the innovation, but by the conversations. Your random thoughts, surprising moments that change how you see things, and the ideas you didn’t seek but needed to hear. SXSW has always focused on tech, culture, and humanity. This year, humanity stood out the most.
A highlight for me was Michelle Obama’s live podcast taping with her brother, Craig Robinson. They discussed the mental toll of social media. They warned about the risks of falling into online negativity. Even public figures like them must choose wisely to keep their peace.
Her advice? Don’t read the comments. Don’t get dragged into gossip. Focus on real conversations and trusted people in your circle. Simple, but powerful — and deeply relevant to where we are as a culture.
That message echoed across other panels too. There was a strong focus on digital fatigue. People need more intentional and curated online experiences. Not just for mental health, but for meaningful connection. Ambient tech refers to tools that blend into our lives. They work quietly and don’t need our constant attention. There were lively talks about decentralized platforms. Creators want to take back control of their communities and content.
That’s where FanHero comes in.
In a crowded content world, FanHero offers creators a private space. Here, they can connect with their audience. It’s a break from algorithms, chaos, and the pressure to always perform. It’s not about broadcasting to the masses. It’s about cultivating a community that wants to be there, learning and engaging on a deeper level.
Michelle Obama’s message reminded us that people crave authenticity. They want places to be themselves. They want to ask real questions. They don’t want to feel like just another data point on a platform’s dashboard.
At FanHero, we believe in a future focused on human-centered communities, where presence has more value than performance.
So yes — SXSW delivered again. And this time, it left me with something more than ideas. It left me with a renewed sense of clarity. The internet isn’t going anywhere, but how do we choose to show up in it? That’s evolving. And I’m here for it.
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