In this special episode, we reflect on how the internet has shifted over the past decade—often in surprising and dramatic ways. We consider whether social media has eclipsed traditional blogging, how sponsored content has changed creative expression, and why many of us have become more cautious about sharing personal details online. This episode is a recording of our keynote from Altitude Summit, where we cover those topics and more: why a former Bachelorette reached out for advice, a career moment we wish we could redo, and a particular blog comment that still moves Sherry to tears.
You can download or stream this episode from iTunes, Google Play, Stitcher, and TuneIn Radio, or listen to the embedded player below. Use this page to find the links, notes, and photos we reference in the talk. Note: If you’re reading in a feed reader, you may need to open the post to see the audio player.
Altitude Summit Talk
- This keynote expands on ideas we first discussed in our Haven presentation and in Episode #14, “What Quitting Our Blog Taught Us.” If you want more context, that episode dives into how stepping back changed our priorities and creative approach. (If you’re in a feed reader, open the post to access the player.)
- You can also hear about the rest of our Palm Springs visit and additional conference details in Episode #37 from last week.
- When we discussed ads and sponsorships, we referenced Episode #8, where we spoke with Emily Henderson, Nicole Balch, and Justina Blakeny about sponsored posts. They were transparent about the process and even shared their pricing, which gives useful perspective on how sponsored content works in practice. (If you’re viewing this in a feed reader, click through to the post to access the audio.)
- Most slides in the keynote were text-based or served as simple prompts that matched what we were saying, so listening to the audio delivers the core message. For reference, we’ve included several of the more visual slides below.
- We also mentioned a personal post Sherry wrote about her aunt. That post remains one of the most meaningful pieces we’ve published and illustrates why certain personal stories resonate so strongly with readers.
- And, of course, we shared a memory of Bubba the dog—the winner of one of our earliest giveaways—and how community moments like that shaped the early days of our site.
Because this episode focused on our keynote, we didn’t include a “We’re Digging” segment. Instead, we compiled a master list of everything we’ve featured in past episodes so you can browse all the recommendations in one place. It’s a handy resource if you like to follow the things we talk about regularly.
Also, take a look at Delta Faucet’s product line and innovations highlighted at DeltaFaucet.com/YHL—many readers have found these products helpful in their own projects.