Welcome to the first episode of the Human Internet Theory.

In this episode, I introduce the core idea behind this entire show. I'm responding to something you've probably noticed yourself... which is the huge increase in AI-generated content online. This idea has a name, the "Dead Internet Theory," which suggests that much of the internet is no longer human but is instead populated by bots: both generated and automated content. With recent news about thousands of AI-generated podcasts being created every week, this theory feels more real than ever.

I believe we, as creators, marketers, and educators, need a positive way to move forward. My response is the Human Internet Theory. It's an approach to creating content that focuses on what makes us unique: our thoughts, our point of view, our creativity, and our ability to truly communicate and connect. This show is about making things with a soul.

I'll be your host, Jen deHaan. With my background in technology and education, plus a decade of experience as a performer, I'm here to help you. We will explore how to be more human in a digital world. I’ll share practical steps to build your confidence, find your natural voice on camera or audio, and build real trust with your audience. This show is for you if you want to make your message more human and stand out in the sea of generated content.

Join me as we work to keep the internet a place for real human connection.

Join the Human Internet Theory newsletter & get a FREE workbook to help you create your business persona. https://humaninternettheory.com to grab the PDF.

This is just the introduction! I have another two episodes released so you can get started today.

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RESOURCES MENTIONED

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Paper on Dead Internet Theory: https://arxiv.org/abs/2502.00007

About Sam Altman's Tweet: https://www.forbes.com/sites/danidiplacido/2025/09/05/sam-altman-is-starting-to-see-the-dead-internet-theory/

AI-Generated Podcasts Article: https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/business/digital/ai-podcast-start-up-plan-shows-1236361367/

Dan Koe on the Meaning Economy: https://youtu.be/ni04Zp7mUMM

Visit my website for more: https://humaninternettheory.com

Produced by: https://stereoforest.com

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About and Support

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Written, edited, and hosted by Jen deHaan.

Find this show on YouTube at https://youtube.com/@humaninternettheory

Subscribe to this show's newsletter for additional resources and a free 3 page workbook when you join https://humaninternettheory.com

Produced by Jen deHaan of StereoForest https://stereoforest.com

Contact Jen at https://jendehaan.com

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Connect on Socials

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Support

Your support will help this show continue. Funds will go towards hosting and music licensing for this show and others on StereoForest. This show is produced by an independent HUMAN artist directly affected by the state of the industry. StereoForest does not have any funding or additional support.

If you find value in our shows, please consider supporting them with a one time donation at https://stereoforest.com/tip

We love our podcast host Capitvate.fm! Contact me anytime to ask me anything. You can support my shows by signing up with Captivate here: https://www.captivate.fm/signup?ref=yzjiytz

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About Jen

Jen's professional background is in web software technology (audio/video/web and graphics), working for many years in Silicon Valley. She has worked in instructional design, writing, marketing, and education in the creative space. She was also a quality engineer for awhile.

Jen became involved in performing, acting, and improv in 2015. She taught dance fitness classes (despite beginning with two left feet), performed in community theatre, and taught and coached improv comedy and acting at several theatres. Jen was also the Online School Director and Director of Marketing at WGIS.

Jen's website: https://jendehaan.com