For years I’ve felt there needs to be an accessible primer on social media recommendation algorithms. So I used my sabbatical to write one! We can level up normative/policy debates about social media if the tech is better understood.

In the essay I also discuss the flaws of engagement optimization and the optimization mindset in general. I have strong opinions on this and I don’t mince words. I’ve clearly separated the normative analysis from the expository parts.
https://knightcolumbia.org/content/understanding-social-media-recommendation-algorithms

The fediverse has come this far despite being very capital-constrained.

What if that constraint were lifted?

If you have a project or idea (for- or non-profit) that helps build or grow the fediverse and would benefit from funding, I hope you'll apply here. Thank you!
https://bit.ly/fediverse-funding

Finally released: The GB Interceptor.

An open source rp2040-based adapter that goes between your (unmodified) Game Boy and the game cartridge to record or stream your gameplay via USB.

Video: https://youtu.be/6mOJtrFnawk
Details: https://there.oughta.be/a/game-boy-capture-cartridge