Episodios

  • How AI Can Help Address Toxic Polarization


    In this bonus episode of Outrage Overload, we dive into the intriguing potential of artificial intelligence to reduce political polarization in online spaces. Our guest, Steve McIntosh—developmental philosopher, author, and co-founder of the Developmental Politics Project—joins us to discuss his work on DepolarizingGPT, a custom AI chatbot designed to provide balanced perspectives on divisive political issues.

    "The news is filled with reports of how social media is exacerbating political polarization. But we believe technology can also be used to actually reduce polarization." – Developmental Politics Project


    Throughout the conversation, we explore:

    The cultural and psychological forces driving political polarizationWhy traditional centrism may no longer be an effective solutionHow DepolarizingGPT is crafted to help us engage more constructively in political discourseThe evolution of cultural consciousness and AI's role in facilitating a post-postmodern worldview

    McIntosh also shares his vision for a future where AI not only helps us overcome political divisions but fosters a more integrated and harmonious society.

    This episode offers a fresh perspective on the intersection of technology, politics, and culture, leaving us with a sense of optimism about the role AI can play in healing our polarized world.

    Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion!

    Guest: Steve McIntosh, author of Developmental Politics
    Topics Covered: AI, political polarization, cultural consciousness, depolarizing technology
    Mentioned Project: DepolarizingGPT
    Host: David Beckemeyer

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • How to Combat the Misinformation Crisis


    In this episode, we sit down with Samuel Spitali, author of How to Win the War on Truth, to unravel the complexities of misinformation and its impact on society. Samuel offers a deep dive into the history of media polarization, examining key moments like the removal of the Fairness Doctrine and the rise of partisan news outlets. We also explore the psychological factors that make conspiracy theories so enticing, even to those who pride themselves on critical thinking. This conversation isn’t just an exploration of how we got here—it's a call to action to support public goods like libraries and journalism that are crucial for an informed society.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • ¿Faltan episodios?

    Pulsa aquí para actualizar resultados

  • How Platforms Like OtherWeb and 1440 Are Changing News Consumption


    In this episode, we dive into the evolving landscape of news consumption with Alex Fink, CEO of OtherWeb, and Drew Steggerwald, co-founder of 1440 News. We explore how their platforms are reshaping the way we engage with information, focusing on curating a balanced and healthy media diet. They discuss the challenges of navigating sensationalist content and media fallacies, offering practical solutions to help news consumers stay informed without feeling overwhelmed.

    Alex and Drew share their insights on creating tools that empower individuals to filter and personalize their news experience, ultimately fostering more informed and meaningful discussions. They emphasize the importance of critically evaluating the information we consume and the role of human judgment in crafting accurate and compelling narratives. Whether you're looking to refine your news habits or simply want to understand the complexities of modern media, this episode offers valuable perspectives and actionable advice.

    Tune in to learn how you can make more informed decisions, avoid common media pitfalls, and engage in conversations that bridge divides rather than deepen them.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • After Trump: Understanding the Continuing Influence of Trumpism

    In Episode 46 we examine the enduring influence of Donald Trump on American politics and media. Despite the controversies surrounding his presidency, Trump continues to shape the political landscape. Special guest Robert Gutsche, a cultural studies scholar and journalist, joins the discussion to provide insights from his extensive research on political journalism and media coverage. The episode explores the persistence of Trumpism, the role of local journalism, and the challenges faced by political reporters. Gutsche emphasizes the importance of moving from awareness to action in addressing political and social issues.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • In this episode, the conversation revolves around Project 2025, conservative policy proposals, and the potential implications on the administrative state. The discussion examines the nuances of Trump's agenda, the challenges of implementing certain policy changes, and the role of constitutional norms in safeguarding democracy. Dr. Evans offers a balanced perspective on the various aspects of Project 2025 and sheds light on the potential checks and balances that could influence its execution.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • How Understanding Intractable Conflicts Can Improve Our Society

    In this powerful episode of the Outrage Overload Podcast, we dive deep into the roots of our societal conflicts and explore ways to bridge the seemingly intractable divides that are tearing us apart. Our guest, Dr. Guy Burgess, a pioneering figure in conflict resolution, shares his insights on how to foster constructive dialogue and build a more cohesive society.

    Tune in to hear Dr. Burgess's expert insights and find out how you can contribute to lowering the temperature in our heated political landscape. Don't miss this enlightening conversation that promises to leave you with a deeper understanding of our societal conflicts and practical ways to foster a more united community.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • Why We Need Conservative Perspectives to Combat Polarization


    In this episode we address concerns about the podcast’s perceived political bias by featuring conservative researcher and author Michael Anderson. Anderson, known for his work on tribalism, offers a conservative perspective on issues like toxic polarization and the impact of social media on public discourse.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • How to Build Mental Immunity Against Misinformation and Conspiracies


    In this episode of Outrage Overload, host David Beckmeyer joins forces with science educator Melanie Trecek-King to unpack the power of critical thinking in our everyday lives. They equip listeners with practical tools to become discerning information consumers. Learn how to evaluate evidence, identify your own biases, and build mental immunity against the constant barrage of misinformation. The episode also dives into navigating the emotional rollercoaster of social media and separating emotional triggers from facts. Melanie shares inspiring success stories from her platform. This episode is your roadmap to becoming a more informed and critical thinker, both online and off.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • When “Listen to the Other Side” Isn’t Enough (Emergency Panel)


    Feeling like "listen to the other side" just isn't cutting it anymore? You're not alone. In this special bonus episode of Outrage Overload, we address your frustration head-on with an "emergency panel" discussion.

    Communication experts Phyllis Leavitt and Lisa Swallow join us to explore why traditional methods of civil discourse might feel ineffective in today's climate. We'll explore the impact of constant outrage on our ability to connect and navigate even the most heated conversations.

    Is there a way forward, even when tensions are high? Tune in for new tools and strategies to foster connection and create positive change, even in these challenging times.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • How Our Brains Are Wired for Political Division

    We look into the phenomenon of ideological inferences with guest Carsten Sander. The discussion revolves around how individuals instinctively categorize others based on their behavior, hindering civil discourse and perpetuating polarization. Sander's research reveals the complexities of these inferences and offers insights into breaking free from snap judgments to foster understanding and compromise.

    Sander's study explores the spontaneous nature of ideological inferences and uncovers the reasons behind individuals' tendencies to assign political labels based on behavior. The episode highlights the need to challenge overestimations of differences and create space for diverse views to counter the echo chamber effect.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • Why Crossing Party Lines is Essential for a Healthy Democracy

    In this bonus episode of Outrage Overload, we examine the challenges of political conversations and how to lower the temperature. Featuring Lisa Swallow, founder of Crossing Party Lines, the episode explores the importance of understanding and respectful dialogue across political divides. Lisa shares her journey of starting the nonprofit in 2016 and offers insights into the skills needed for productive conversations. The discussion covers managing emotional triggers, the role of critical thinking, and the impact of biases. Listeners will learn practical tips for engaging in meaningful political discussions and fostering a more informed and curious approach to politics.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • The Trolls Among Us: Understanding and Mitigating Online Toxicity


    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • Welcome to the inaugural episode of the Okay Boomer series! In this episode, we shift the mic to the younger generation for a conversation about a critical issue: housing.

    Skyrocketing rents and the seemingly impossible dream of homeownership are leaving many young adults feeling frustrated and hopeless. Our guests, Cameron Lee Cowan (writer) and Jake Didinsky (DJ/Producer with a political science background), offer their perspectives on the housing crisis.

    Join the Conversation!

    We want to hear from YOU! Share your own housing story and ideas for change:

    #OkayBoomerHousing on social mediaLeave a comment on our website https://outrageoverload.net/Email us at [email protected]

    Feeling passionate about a different issue? We're looking for young adult guests with unique perspectives! Apply to be a guest on the show through our website.

    Stay tuned for more episodes of Okay Boomer on the Outrage Overload podcast!

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • How Certainty Fuels Outrage and Division


    In this episode of the Outrage Overload podcast, we delight in a thought-provoking conversation with Ilana Redstone, a leading expert on the psychology of certainty. Redstone introduces the concept of the "certainty trap" and explores how absolute certainty can hinder intellectual growth and impede healthy democratic discourse. The discussion delves into the importance of questioning assumptions, embracing ambiguity, and recognizing the complexities of moral and ethical issues. Redstone highlights the connection between certainty and outrage, emphasizing the need to challenge our own thinking and understand the perspectives of those with differing opinions. The episode offers valuable insights into the role of certainty in shaping our beliefs and its implications for democracy and civil discourse.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • How Negativity Bias Fuels Toxic Politics


    In this episode of Outrage Overload, we explore the concept of negativity bias and its role in toxic polarization. We are joined by Travis Monteleone, a private equity investor and depolarization advocate. Monteleone argues that negativity bias is a major factor contributing to toxic polarization because it causes individuals to overemphasize negative information and stereotypes about other people and political issues. The discussion delves into the root causes of polarization, the impact of social media algorithms, and practical strategies to resist negativity bias and bridge the political divide.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • How to Combat Youth Radicalization Using Learning Psychology


    In this episode, we explore the rise of youth radicalization and the potential for online platforms to play a role in the radicalization process with Jack Wippell, an expert in extremism and radicalization. Jack shares insights into the factors that make individuals susceptible to radical ideologies and the impact of social and emotional learning (SEL) in preventing young people from falling prey to dangerous online influences. We discuss the prevalence of radicalization, the characteristics of those who hold extreme beliefs, and the challenges of navigating the online world. Jack highlights the importance of SEL in developing critical thinking skills, emotional intelligence, and empathy to help young people navigate the complexities of the modern world.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • I sit down with Lawrence Eppard to explore the complex landscape of media trust in America. How do we grapple with the challenges of misinformation, disinformation, and news literacy in an increasingly polarized media landscape?

    From dissecting the roots of media distrust to exploring strategies for staying informed without succumbing to outrage overload, this conversation offers valuable insights into navigating the complexities of modern media consumption. Tune in as we seek to uncover pathways toward fostering greater trust and understanding in an era of unprecedented media scrutiny.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • In this special documentary-style episode of the Outrage Overload podcast, we look at the world of electoral politics and the challenges of close elections. Drawing inspiration from the movie "Swing Vote" and real-life insights from history, political science, and contemporary discourse, we explore the trend of close elections and the implications of razor-thin margins. We discuss the importance of understanding how democracy works, the role of swing voters, and the impact of affective political polarization. The episode also examines the dangers of undemocratic takeovers and the need for compromise and cooperation in a divided society.

    I hope you enjoy this first of a kind episode on the Outrage Overload podcast. We hope to do more of these documentary-style episodes in the future and we really appreciate your feedback.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • How to Rise Above Nasty Politics


    In this episode of the Outrage Overload podcast, host David Beckmeyer interviews Thomas Zeitzoff, a professor specializing in political violence and political psychology. The episode explores the concept of "nasty politics" and its impact on political discourse and democracy. Zeitzoff discusses the different forms of negativity in politics, from insults and conspiracy theories to threats of violence and actual violence. He explains that while voters may claim to dislike nasty politics, it often grabs their attention and can even signal toughness.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.

  • Discover how seemingly neutral topics can become politicized in this episode of the Outrage Overload podcast. Host David Beckemeyer is joined by researcher Dino Carpentras to explore the dynamics of polarization and dialogue. They discuss how even simple topics like circles and pencils can become battlegrounds for political ideologies, and the implications this has for our society. Learn how polarization can occur in new topics and how neutral attitudes can become polarized. Gain insights into the challenges of reducing uncertainty and lowering the temperature in today's supercharged world.

    Send us a text

    Support the show

    Show Notes:
    https://outrageoverload.net/

    Follow me, David Beckemeyer, on Twitter @mrblog. Follow the show on Twitter @OutrageOverload or Instagram @OutrageOverload. We are also on Facebook /OutrageOverload.

    HOTLINE: 925-552-7885

    Got a Question, comment or just thoughts you'd like to share? Call the OO hotline and leave a message and you could be featured in an upcoming episode

    If you would like to help the show, you can contribute here. Tell everyone you know about the show. That’s the best way to support it.

    Rate and Review the show on Podchaser: https://www.podchaser.com/OutrageOverload

    Many thanks to my co-editor and co-director, Austin Chen.