Because connection and truth matter more than profits and power.
Dear Friends, Family, and Climate Friends,
I hope this message finds you well! I’m reaching out today because I’ve been doing a lot of thinking about the social media platforms we all use to stay connected. Over the years, these platforms have become a huge part of our lives. I was never a big fan of using certain social media platforms such as Twitter (now X) and Facebook. I do like Instagram, just like many of you for the freedom it allows for dissent, and who knows this might change in the future. I do enjoy the way it helps us stay in touch and share meaningful moments, but this can be done on more ethical platforms instead, we just don’t have many of them, such as BlueSky.
But lately, I’ve noticed something deeply concerning about Big Tech companies—specifically platforms like Facebook, Google, and Amazon. Some of these giants are aligning themselves with billionaires and powerful figures, including former President Trump. Now, I want to be clear: If you support Trump, that is your choice, and I will always respect you as a person. However, I can no longer support the values and actions I’ve seen from him and these companies. They often prioritize profits over people, truth, and fairness, which doesn’t sit right with me.
The Insidious Nature of Some Social Media Platforms
Did you know that some of these platforms are designed to keep us scrolling and distracted? They use advanced algorithms to target our emotions—sometimes making us feel angry, sad, or anxious—because those emotions keep us online longer. The longer we stay on their platforms, the more ads we see, and the more money they make. It’s not just about connection anymore; it’s about manipulation.
For example:
- Facebook has been accused of ignoring false or harmful content because it drives up engagement. Studies have shown that fake news spreads six times faster than real news on these platforms.
- Instagram has been linked to mental health problems, especially for younger users, by promoting unrealistic images of beauty and success.
- Twitter (X), which I once loved, has become a space where divisive and hateful content gets boosted because it gets more reactions.
These companies have so much power over what we see and believe, and it feels like they’ve lost sight of what matters most—honesty, community, and the well-being of real people like you and me.
Building Something Better
So, I’ve decided to make a change. If you know me, you’ll remember that I’ve been critical of Facebook for years. Instead of just complaining, I took action: I created my own social platforms. Yes, my very own versions of Facebook, free from ads, manipulation, and billionaire agendas! I currently own five licenses for social platforms that are either up and running or ready to launch soon. In addition I have an external one that focuses primarily on Adaptive Resiliency and our shared Climate Emergency, created by the fossil fuel industry, it is called Climate Tribe, which I built for people who care about our planet, desire to learn more, make connections with others (whether like-minded or not) and want to share ideas about protecting it.
I’m also building a family, friends, climate justice cohorts-only space—a safe, private platform just for us to connect, share, and stay in touch. Here’s what you can expect:
- No ads: You won’t see any annoying ads or pop-ups.
- No fake news: This platform is about truth and meaningful connection.
- Invite-only access: Only the people you know and trust will be part of this space.
What This Means for You
You don’t have to feel pressured to join. I’m sharing this because I want to create a space that feels better and more authentic. If you decide to join me, I’ll send you a link to sign up soon. Once you do, I’ll approve your account (it might take me a little time), and then you’ll be part of our new online home.
Over time, I’ll also be reducing my use of platforms like Facebook and Google. For now, I still have to use some of their products, but I’m working on finding alternatives. It’s not easy, but I believe it’s worth it. I don’t want to support companies that put profits and power over people like us—especially when their actions impact our democracy, truth, and environment.
Why This Matters
As individuals, it might feel like we can’t stand up to Big Tech or billionaires, but that’s not true. Every small action counts. By choosing platforms that align with our values, we send a message: We want better, and we deserve better.
I’m excited to share this next step with you. I totally believe that together, we can create spaces that are healthier, more honest, and truly about connection—not profits. Thank you for understanding, and for being part of my journey. I appreciate your support, whether you join or not.
Let’s keep building something better, one step at a time.
With gratitude and hope,
Tito
Addendum: A Call for Collaboration
For those of you working on the front lines—whether it’s protecting our Democracy or addressing the Climate Emergency—I want you to know that I can create online communities tailored just for us (and your organization). These spaces can serve as private forums where we can discuss strategies, share resources, and work together on assertively (and non-violently) tackling the challenges ahead.
Additional Benefit: For those interested, these platforms can also be monetized to support specific causes, organizations, or groups. By offering affordable subscription levels tailored to various interests—such as science, politics, history, or the environment—we can create sustainable solutions that raise funds for important work. This is a powerful way for organizations and communities to generate resources while staying true to their mission.
If this sounds interesting, reach out to me to initiate a video conferencing meeting so we can discuss ideas, strategies, and next steps.
If you are interested, just send me a short bio (please avoid including live links; for example, write climatetribe.com instead of the full URL). I’m more than happy to collaborate and support those committed to protecting our future.
A Final Word: Protecting Our Democracy and Children’s Future
At the heart of this effort is one undeniable truth: It is all about protecting our Democracy and our children’s future. Now more than ever, we face a moment where an authoritarian president and his minions, billionaires, and other powerful figures are aligning themselves with his despotic nature. This is not just about politics; it is about ensuring that future generations have a fair, free, and just world to inherit.
Let’s build these networks together—networks that prioritize truth, action, and shared purpose.
This blog post is at the start or inception geared towards three groups of people only: Family, Friends, Climate Friends. It doesn’t mean I will not work to support your endeavors to create such a platform in anyway I can.