Episodes

3 hours ago
3 hours ago
From Plan and Execute to Seed and Grow: Navigating Business Changes for Boomers and Gen X Join Steve Dotto in this solo episode of Gray Matters, the podcast for Boomers and Gen X. Steve dives deep into the significant changes that Boomers and Gen X have experienced in the business world from their early careers to the present day. He discusses the old 'plan and execute' business model, contrasting it with today's more dynamic 'seed and grow' approach. Steve provides invaluable insights and personal experiences, highlighting how modern tools like AI have revolutionized business opportunities and success rates. Tune in and discover how to leverage change to your advantage and succeed in today's fast-paced business environment. 00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic 01:39 Reflecting on Past Business Challenges 12:06 The Evolution of Business Practices 17:19 Leveraging AI in Modern Business 19:29 Embracing Change and Experience 21:36 Conclusion and Audience Engagement ---------- Sponsored by: http://dott.to/groundnews http://dott.to/magai š»Join us for our live events every week: https://dottotech.com/event-registrat... Ā š„°Support Dotto Tech on Patreon: / dottotech š©š»āš¤Learn more from Viveka at https://www.beyondthedreamboard.com/blog Beyond the Dreamboard Articles by Post Executive Coach ā Beyond the Dreamboard I will guide you through the process of identifying what that purpose is and how to pivot your life around it. We wonāt just focus on business strategy. šFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DottoTech/ šøInstagram: https://instagram.com/dottotech/

7 days ago
7 days ago
The Hidden Influence of Social Media Algorithms | Gray Matters Podcast
In this episode of Grey Matters, Steve Dotto dives into the unsettling influence of social media algorithms on our opinions and behaviors. Reflecting on how sources of information have evolved from our youth to the rise of platforms like YouTube and Facebook, Steve examines the transition from intentional content consumption to algorithm-driven feeds. He highlights the potential manipulative power of these algorithms and emphasizes the importance of awareness and intent in our digital interactions.Ā
Ā Join the conversation and share your thoughts on the impact of social media algorithms.
00:00 Introduction and Podcast Overview
00:24 The Influence of Algorithms
01:23 Reflecting on the Past
02:35 The Rise of Social Platforms
03:45 Intent vs. Algorithm-Driven Content
05:35 The Role of Ground News
06:22 Concerns About Social Media
09:10 Seeking Solutions
10:45 Conclusion and Call to Action
----------
Sponsored by:Ā
http://dott.to/groundnews
http://dott.to/magai
š»Join us for our live events every week: https://dottotech.com/event-registrat...
Ā š„°Support Dotto Tech on Patreon: / dottotech
š©š»āš¤Learn more from Viveka at https://www.beyondthedreamboard.com/blog
Beyond the Dreamboard
Articles by Post Executive Coach ā Beyond the Dreamboard
I will guide you through the process of identifying what that purpose is and how to pivot your life around it. We wonāt just focus on business strategy.
šFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DottoTech/
šøInstagram: https://instagram.com/dottotech/

Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Authentic Leadership: Balancing Success and Sustainability - GM76
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Thursday Mar 06, 2025
Leadership in the Modern Age: Insights from Business Coach Cami Gildner
In this episode of Gray Matters, host Steve Dotter and co-host Viveka von Rosen dive into the complexities of true leadership in today's world. Joined by special guest and business coach Kami Guildner, the discussion covers the multifaceted nature of modern leadership for Baby Boomers and Gen Xers. Topics include the impact of social media, the essential role of self-care, and the importance of clarity in one's message to the world. Cami shares her profound insights on how entrepreneurs and solopreneurs can step into their leadership roles effectively, emphasizing visibility, voice, and the necessity of integrating personal well-being into their success strategies. This episode is a must-watch for anyone looking to lead authentically and sustainably in both their business and personal lives.
00:00 Introduction to Gray Matters Podcast
00:21 The Challenges of Modern Leadership
01:02 Introducing the Guest: Cammie Gildner
01:41 Leadership for Entrepreneurs and Solopreneurs
03:28 The Importance of Visibility and Voice
07:54 Self-Care for Leaders
11:40 Curiosity and Listening in Leadership
19:19 Women in Leadership
21:32 Final Thoughts and Advice for Entrepreneurs
24:54 Closing Remarks and Reflections
Kami Guildner's website
https://www.kamiguildner.com/
----------
Sponsored by:Ā
http://dott.to/groundnews
http://dott.to/magai
š»Join us for our live events every week: https://dottotech.com/event-registrat...
Ā š„°Support Dotto Tech on Patreon: / dottotech
š©š»āš¤Learn more from Viveka at https://www.beyondthedreamboard.com/blog
Beyond the Dreamboard
Articles by Post Executive Coach ā Beyond the Dreamboard
I will guide you through the process of identifying what that purpose is and how to pivot your life around it. We wonāt just focus on business strategy.
šFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DottoTech/
šøInstagram: https://instagram.com/dottotech/

Thursday Feb 27, 2025
Cracking the TikTok Algorithm: Lessons from an Unexpected Viral Moment
Thursday Feb 27, 2025
Thursday Feb 27, 2025
The Viral Nature of TikTok with Todd Maffin | Special Edition of Grey Matters: Ā Episode 75
In this special edition of Grey Matters, host Steve Dotto is joined by Todd Maffin to discuss the viral nature of TikTok. Todd, a former CBC radio show host and digital marketer, talks about his journey from having a modest TikTok account to gaining significant traction by posting content about identifying Canadian goods during trade tensions between Canada and the US. The conversation delves into the TikTok algorithm, the platform's unique engagement features, and strategies for repurposing content across other social media platforms. Tune in for an insightful discussion on content marketing, community growth, and the dynamics of social media virality.
Links:
Tod's website
https://todayindigital.com/
Naniamo Infusion
https://engageq.notion.site/Tod-s-Nanaimo-Infusion-Apr-25-27-19b3dc1abb9480b9a501d697edccf661
00:00 Introduction and Today's Topic
00:24 Meet Todd Maffin: Background and Expertise
01:34 Todd's TikTok Journey Begins
04:20 The Viral Growth Explained
06:09 TikTok Algorithm Insights
09:37 Engagement and Interactive Features
13:43 Cross-Promotion and Repurposing Content
19:16 Future Plans and Final Thoughts
22:10 Conclusion and Call to Action
----------
Sponsored by:Ā
http://dott.to/groundnews
http://dott.to/magai
š»Join us for our live events every week: https://dottotech.com/event-registrat...
Ā š„°Support Dotto Tech on Patreon: / dottotech
š©š»āš¤Learn more from Viveka at https://www.beyondthedreamboard.com/blog
Beyond the Dreamboard
Articles by Post Executive Coach ā Beyond the Dreamboard
I will guide you through the process of identifying what that purpose is and how to pivot your life around it. We wonāt just focus on business strategy.
šFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DottoTech/
šøInstagram: https://instagram.com/dottotech/

Thursday Feb 27, 2025
The Power of Personal Introductions: GM 74
Thursday Feb 27, 2025
Thursday Feb 27, 2025
GRAY MATTERS PODCAST NOTES Episode: Strategic Referral Marketing with Joanne Black Guest: Joanne Black (America's leading authority on referral selling) Interviewed by: Viveka von Rosen

Saturday Feb 22, 2025
Kindle Controversy: Amazon sets a deadline for you to "own" your books.
Saturday Feb 22, 2025
Saturday Feb 22, 2025
Amazon's New Kindle Terms of Service Explained | With Mike Vardy
Links from this episode:
https://goodereader.com/blog/kindle/amazon-changes-licensing-text-when-kindle-books-are-purchased
Step by Step walkthroughs to download your books (if it still is possible)
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EGJDisov240
In this episode of Gray Matters, Steve Dotto and guest Mike Vardy discuss Amazon's upcoming changes to the Kindle bookstore's terms of service, effective February 25, 2025. These changes mean that when you 'purchase' a Kindle book, you are actually only licensing it, similar to how streaming services operate. They explore the implications for users, such as potential removal of books from your library and the challenges of downloading and retaining books. They also discuss the growing distrust in high-tech companies and alternative e-reader options like Kobo. Tune in for important insights and practical tips on navigating these changes.
00:00 Introduction and Overview
00:25 Amazon's New Terms of Service
01:17 Implications of Licensing vs. Owning
02:04 Potential Impact and Concerns
02:38 Discussion with Mike Vardy
05:39 Historical Context and Precedents
09:31 Steps to Protect Your eBooks
12:37 Exploring Alternatives to Kindle
16:32 Final Thoughts and Recommendations
19:09 Conclusion and Engagement
----------
Sponsored by:Ā
http://dott.to/groundnews
http://dott.to/magai
š»Join us for our live events every week: https://dottotech.com/event-registrat...
Ā š„°Support Dotto Tech on Patreon: / dottotech
š©š»āš¤Learn more from Viveka at https://www.beyondthedreamboard.com/blog
Beyond the Dreamboard
Articles by Post Executive Coach ā Beyond the Dreamboard
I will guide you through the process of identifying what that purpose is and how to pivot your life around it. We wonāt just focus on business strategy.
šFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/DottoTech/
šøInstagram: https://instagram.com/dottotech/

Thursday Feb 20, 2025
When Social Media Becomes Judge and Jury | The Doxxing Dilemma - GM 72
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
Thursday Feb 20, 2025
GRAY MATTERS PODCAST NOTES Episode: Social Media Vigilantism
Host: Steve Dotto Co-Host: Viveka Von Rosen
EPISODE SUMMARY: This episode explores the controversial trend of social media vigilantism and the ethical implications of using social platforms to deliver justice.
*Podcast notes generated by AI (Claude 3.5)
Ā

Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Grey Matters Podcast Reboot! - GM 71
Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Thursday Feb 13, 2025
Gray Matters Reboot: Navigating Online Life for Baby Boomers and GenX
Ā
Visit us on Youtube
https://www.youtube.com/user/dottotech
Ā
Welcome back to Gray Matters! Steve Dotto and co-host Viveka von Rosen reboot the podcast after a three-year hiatus. In this episode, Steve shares his guilt and challenges about pausing the podcast and announces exciting new changes, including the addition of Viveka as co-host. They discuss expanding their content beyond just online business-building for Baby Boomers and Gen X, delving into social issues, health, and the impact of technology. The episode also introduces the podcast's move to YouTube, where listeners can interact and engage in conversations through comments. Join us as we navigate the digital world, address key life transitions, and provide valuable insights with a dose of humour.
00:00 Welcome Back to Gray Matters
00:10 Why We Stopped and Why We're Back
01:09 Introducing the New Co-Host: Viveka von Rosen
01:22 New Focus and Content of the Podcast
04:34 The Importance of YouTube for Podcasts
06:43 Personal Reflections and Guilt of Stopping
08:28 Vivica's New Venture: Beyond the Dream Board
14:42 Addressing Ageism and Social Issues
24:02 Engaging with Our Community
27:44 Commitment to Weekly Episodes----------

Thursday Jun 03, 2021
Figuring Out Your Business Focus - GM70
Thursday Jun 03, 2021
Thursday Jun 03, 2021
Show Notes
This is the episode of Grey Matters that every person thinking about starting a business - or succeeding in their existing business - should listen to right now. The alternative may mean months or even years of focusing in the wrong direction.
The age old question for entrepreneurs, "What should my business look like?" is one where the answer - or at least the correct answer - can elude us for far longer than we were hoping or imagining. Business owners are challenged with the need for customers, the desire to become profitable, and doubts about the right way to proceed.Ā
How do we balance the passions we have with the problems we can solve for customers? How do we identify the right opportunities where our business can be the answer to customer problems? How do we avoid targeting too broadly, or too narrowly, for our ideal audience?
All of these questions are answered by Steve in another helpful episode of the Grey Matters podcast. What are you waiting for? Figure out your business focus - the right one - today.Ā
Links from this Episode
Why We See Ads Online for Items We Were Just Talking About
Twitter Spaces Comes to Desktop, Not Just Mobile
Now You Can Hide Like Counts on Facebook and Instagram
Got a Graphics Card You Aren't Using? You Might Be Able to Cash In
- Weekly live, free tutorials -Ā Webinar Wednesday
- Weekly live, paid business tutorials -Ā Foundational Fridays (Business Building Blocks)
- Grey Zone on Facebook a place for Baby Boomers and GenX to meet, share and learn about online business
-
Grey Matters is made possible through your generous support! PleaseĀ become a Patron of Grey Matters!
About Us:
Steve Dotto - Host
Canada's favourite geek.Ā
For over 20 years, as host and executive producer of Dotto Tech, a nationally syndicated TV show, Steve entertained and educated millions of Canadians on all aspects of technology.
After spending 20 years in traditional broadcasting Steve reinvented himself learning the world of social media, online community building and Internet Marketing as he built his YouTube channel into his new career.
His passion is teaching Baby Boomers and GenX how to remain relevant in the digital age, how we can reinvent ourselves and grow side hustles into successful online businesses.
Steve has a gift for making complex concepts easy to understand. Steve takes the world of technology and makes it relevant in your life.
Ā
Rachel Moore - Producer
From stage to studio, Rachel has honed her skills as an entertainer, producer, and marketer throughout her 20+ year career. As technology and communication has evolved, so she has carried her skills in writing, graphic design, and production forward into digital marketing, livestreaming, and podcasting.Ā
In addition to working as a fulltime content marketer, Rachel hosts her own livestream show Social Glue, publishes helpful how-to videos to her YouTube channel, and produces entertaining and insightful podcasts for Really Social as well as Grey Matters.Ā
Bottom line: if thereās a camera, microphone, and/or stage involved, Rachel can carry the message in a memorable way.Ā Ā

Thursday May 27, 2021
Reality Bites (Literally) - GM69
Thursday May 27, 2021
Thursday May 27, 2021
Show Notes
These week's news updates by Steve and Rachel will really give you something to sink your teeth into (pun intended). In a special episode focused on current events in business, social, and technology, you'll get informed even as you're wondering what exactly this world is coming to today.
First up: Instagram adds a new Drops feature in its Shopping tab, providing a new way to keep shoppers on the forefront of your latest products they can shop for right through the app. (Need to set up your own Shopping feature on Instagram? Check the show Links below for a great how-to.)
Next, Steve takes us back to the earlier days of YouTube to a video which has become today's version of the original Mona Lisa artwork. Whether you're into bitcoin technology or over it already, we dig into how this new type of currency is impacting more than just money.
Want a little light yet meaningful fun? Try out a new online game that lets you battle your way through a series of opt-out dialog boxes and messages to see if you can successfully take your data from the jaws of businesses.Ā
Lastly, we prepare for the long goodbye to a technology staple if the internet world. But don't worry, it's going to be a whole year before we finally see the sun go down on a browser of old.
Get on the rollercoaster that is this week's Grey Matters podcast episode and ponder with us what it all means for the reality we live in today.Ā
Ā
Links from this Episode
NFTs: Today's Original Art Ownership?
Internet Explorerās Imminent Demise
Brave browser (what Steve uses)
Instagram adds Drops to Shopping tab
How to Set Up Instagram Shopping for Your Business
Online game pokes fun at how grabby websites (and we) can be about information capturing
- Weekly live, free tutorials -Ā Webinar Wednesday
- Weekly live, paid business tutorials -Ā Foundational Fridays (Business Building Blocks)
- Grey Zone on Facebook a place for Baby Boomers and GenX to meet, share and learn about online business
-
Grey Matters is made possible through your generous support! PleaseĀ become a Patron of Grey Matters!
About Us:
Steve Dotto - Host
Canada's favourite geek.Ā
For over 20 years, as host and executive producer of Dotto Tech, a nationally syndicated TV show, Steve entertained and educated millions of Canadians on all aspects of technology.
After spending 20 years in traditional broadcasting Steve reinvented himself learning the world of social media, online community building and Internet Marketing as he built his YouTube channel into his new career.
His passion is teaching Baby Boomers and GenX how to remain relevant in the digital age, how we can reinvent ourselves and grow side hustles into successful online businesses.
Steve has a gift for making complex concepts easy to understand. Steve takes the world of technology and makes it relevant in your life.
Ā
Rachel Moore - Producer
From stage to studio, Rachel has honed her skills as an entertainer, producer, and marketer throughout her 20+ year career. As technology and communication has evolved, so she has carried her skills in writing, graphic design, and production forward into digital marketing, livestreaming, and podcasting.Ā
In addition to working as a fulltime content marketer, Rachel hosts her own livestream show Social Glue, publishes helpful how-to videos to her YouTube channel, and produces entertaining and insightful podcasts for Really Social as well as Grey Matters.Ā
Bottom line: if thereās a camera, microphone, and/or stage involved, Rachel can carry the message in a memorable way.Ā Ā