CBRS Podcast 61 | NewYear, Venezuela, Social Media, Migration, games and Technology

Hello Hive

In this new episode, @Artakush and @minigunner kicked off 2026 with a wide range and casual discussion. We started by reflecting on the wild Dutch New Year's fireworks celebrations, criticizing the upcoming 2026 ban as counterproductive, predicting it will lead to illegal, more dangerous fireworks and increased accidents.

The conversation shifted to global events, including speculation about a fictional US intervention in #Venezuela to remove Maduro, debating the mix of humanitarian motives and resource interests (oil, gold, minerals). We akso expressed unease about geopolitics, migration challenges in Europe (high migrant percentages in Dutch cities, housing and benefit disparities), welfare fraud scandals, and declining European birth rates contrasted with higher rates among immigrant communities.

Topics expand to the downsides of social media and technology: how it destroys real social interaction, harms child development, promotes unrealistic standards, and contributes to family breakdown. We worry about AI deepfakes blurring reality, the loss of cultural identity in Europe, and humanity's over-reliance on screens.

On a personal note, @minigunner shared his New Year's resolution to focus more on supporting his children through upcoming school transitions. We also touched on gaming (Civilization, cheap Steam keys, new series like Future Man), #Hive blockchain updates, community tools, and plans to grow our YouTube channel with shorts and videos.

The episode wraped with optimism about continuing the podcast, calls for more real-life interaction, less screen time, and finding inner peace in a chaotic world.