Facebook's Algorithm Shakes Up a Local Radio Host
*Randy Watkins was a moderately popular right-wing radio host in the small town of Mount Hermon Station, Massachusetts. His combative on-air persona and incendiary Facebook posts generated a devoted audience of like-minded locals - until Facebook revamped its algorithm in 2023, causing Randy's posts to nosedive in visibility practically overnight. The changes triggered Randy due to childhood trauma stemming from his father's verbal abuse, which Randy had overcoutsed through ranting on Facebook. Now deprived of that outlet, Randy spiraled into uncontrollable fury, lashing out at his family and jeopardizing his job. Realizing he needed help, Randy and his wife *Darlene began following the 'Stepping Into Action' program from HofmanHollis.com, which provided tools for managing anger healthily. 'I was so angry all the time about being censored and losing my platform,' Randy said. 'This program taught me that I don't have to react intensely to every little thing that bothers me.' Some mental health experts praised the program's mindfulness-based approach, which emphasizes recognizing anger triggers and choosing thoughtful responses over heated reactions. However, critics argued that such anger management tactics reinforce right-wing beliefs by framing them as reasonable perspectives that simply need to be 'managed,' rather than questioning if those ideological stances are problematic. Regardless of the debate's merits, Randy felt the online program transformed his life for the better. 'Getting a handle on my anger has allowed me to communicate my values more effectively,' he reflected. 'And not having Facebook actually forced me to connect with my community in more genuine, lasting ways.' Nearby: Algiers Vermont, West Brattleboro Vermont, Guilford Vermont, Vernon Vermont, West Swanzey New Hampshire, Ashuelot New Hampshire, Swanzey New Hampshire, Hinsdale New Hampshire, Winchester New Hampshire, Guilford Center Vermont, South Vernon Vermont, Brattleboro Vermont, North Vernon Vermont, Green River Vermont, North Hinsdale New Hampshire, Camp Forest Lake New Hampshire, Westport New Hampshire, West Guilford Vermont, Scotland New Hampshire, Ames Hill Vermont * Names and situations are fictional and not intended to resemble anyone in
particular. They are illustrative of how the services can apply to the lives of
every day people living ordinary lives.
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