Podcast Summary: Digital Social Hour – Why Parler's Rebirth May Change Everything | Amy Robbins DSH #796

Host: Sean Kelly
Guest: Amy Robbins
Release Date: October 11, 2024

In episode #796 of Digital Social Hour, host Sean Kelly engages in a comprehensive discussion with Amy Robbins about the resurgence of Parler, its impact on free speech, and its potential to reshape the social media landscape. The conversation delves into Parler's history, its recent revitalization, partnerships with influential figures like Tucker Carlson, and future innovations aimed at fostering authentic and uncensored dialogue.

1. Supporting Tucker Carlson's Tour

Sean Kelly introduces the setting in Dallas, where Parler is sponsoring Tucker Carlson's tour. Amy Robbins explains Parler's strategic involvement:

"[01:34] A: ...when he decided to do this tour, we said, we got to be a part of it. He is obviously a big advocate for freedom of speech and freedom of expression, which is exactly what the fundamentals of our platform are there for."

Key Points:

• Parler's partnership with Tucker Carlson aims to support free speech advocates.
• The tour features tailored speeches without scripts, highlighting authentic and uncensored conversations.

2. The Appeal of Uncensored Platforms

Amy emphasizes the unique value Parler offers by avoiding algorithm-driven content moderation:

"[00:04] A: ...we don't have an algorithm that's sitting there trying to moderate or be the arbiter of truth... we let people go out there and put their opinions, put their stories."

Key Points:

• Parler allows users to share opinions without suppression from content algorithms.
• The platform fosters genuine interactions, contrasting with mainstream social media's moderated environment.

3. Media Censorship and Suppression

The discussion highlights the challenges faced by figures like RFK Jr. in gaining media traction:

"[04:01] A: ...RFK Jr. tonight... they really tried to suppress him."

Key Points:

• Figures who face media suppression find a supportive environment on Parler.
• Parler serves as a platform for voices that mainstream media often sidelines or censors.

4. The History and Rebirth of Parler

Amy provides an in-depth look at Parler's evolution:

a. Parler 1.0 Shutdown:

"[10:15] A: ...Parler was there since 2018... overnight, they went from having tens of millions of users to nothing."

Key Points:

• Parler 1.0 was removed from major cloud services and app stores following controversy.
• The platform struggled to recover due to lack of technical infrastructure.

b. Dormancy and New Ownership:

"[10:42] A: ...they weren't a tech company... then they sold it to a marketing group."

Key Points:

• After initial shutdown, Parler was sold to a marketing group, leading to a period of inactivity.
• Recognition of the need for a tech-focused approach to rebuild the platform.

c. Re-launch with Parler 3.0:

"[25:03] A: ...we own the entire tech stack to Parler... no Big Tech looking over your shoulder."

Key Points:

• New ownership has invested in a decentralized, autonomous tech infrastructure.
• Parler 3.0 aims to provide greater user control and data privacy.

5. New Features and Future Plans

Amy outlines Parler's ambitious roadmap to enhance user experience and expand functionalities:

a. App Facelift and Integration:

"[16:00] A: ...completely new facelift on the Parler app itself... integrated into one location."

Key Points:

• Upcoming redesign of the Parler app for improved usability.
• Integration across multiple Parler platforms for a seamless user experience.

b. Launching Play TV and Burst App:

"[10:42] A: ...launching our alternative to YouTube, Play TV... **short-form videos, Burst app."

Key Points:

• Introduction of Play TV as a YouTube competitor focused on free speech.
• Burst app to cater to the demand for short-form video content, promoting user engagement and creativity.

c. Reward System for Positive Participation:

"[25:50] A: ...advertiser give you an advertisement, you get paid... user becomes the beneficiary."

Key Points:

• Implementation of a rewards system incentivizing positive user participation.
• Users can opt-in to share data with advertisers and receive compensation, contrasting with traditional platforms where users’ data is monetized without direct benefits.

6. Data Privacy and User Control

Amy underscores Parler's commitment to user privacy and autonomy:

"[25:51] A: Parler does not do that. ...only collect the most basic data from you. It's private, it's secure."

Key Points:

• Unlike platforms like Facebook, Parler minimizes data collection.
• Emphasis on user ownership of data, enhancing privacy and security.

7. Social Media Safety for Kids and Video Games

The conversation shifts to concerns about online safety, particularly for children:

"[21:07] A: ...predators are gonna find a way to be a predator any place that they can. FBI report... over 500,000 predators online every single day."

Key Points:

• Highlighting the dangers of unsupervised interactions in online gaming environments.
• Advocating for proactive parental involvement and safer platforms to protect children from online predators and inappropriate content.

8. Conclusion and Accessibility

Amy concludes by providing actionable steps for listeners to engage with Parler:

"[28:16] A: ...go to parler.com, download it on Google or the Apple Store... sign up for our newsletter."

Key Points:

• Encouragement to download the revamped Parler app and explore new features.
• Invitation to join the Parler community through their website and stay updated via newsletters.

Notable Quotes:

• Amy Robbins on Parler's Philosophy:

  "We are going to be the first, free speech, but porn-free app on the market because our partners are dedicated to not only helping to thwart human trafficking, but stopping it."
  [19:32]

• Sean Kelly on Data Privacy:

  "Twenty-five thousand data points per person every time you log onto Facebook... Parler does not do that."
  [25:50]

• Amy Robbins on User Empowerment:

  "The user becomes the beneficiary. They're no longer the product."
  [27:28]

Final Thoughts:

Amy Robbins' insights reveal Parler's strategic moves to reclaim its position as a major player in the social media arena by prioritizing free speech, data privacy, and user empowerment. With innovative features like Play TV and a rewards-based system, Parler aims to address the shortcomings of traditional platforms while fostering a safer and more open online community. This rebirth signifies a potential shift in how social media can operate, emphasizing transparency, user control, and authentic engagement.

For listeners interested in exploring Parler's new offerings and supporting its mission, visiting Parler.com and downloading the app from the App Store or Google Play is recommended. Additionally, signing up for Parler's newsletter will keep users informed about upcoming features and developments.