#AI browser extension

[windmillcode]

Unleash Viral Content: How I Created a YouTube Video Using this AI Browser Extension

🎬 Want to create viral content? I made a video using an AI tool that helps with everything from titles and tags to eye-catching images. If you’re a YouTube creator or just want to grow your channel, you don’t want to miss this! Watch now to unlock the power of AI and make videos that *everyone* wants to watch! 🚀 #YouTubeTips #ContentCreation #AI

[ledybas-the-ledybest]

Are there any Firefox extensions to block AI-generated images in Pinterest search results?

[shug-buglas]

pet peeve of the year is whenever someone attempts to back themselves up in an argument by posting a screenshot of google's ai response. like you couldn't take two seconds to scroll past the garbled horseshit that melts icecaps to tell you to eat glue and get a real source? come the fuck on

[hamscallion]

ooo need

im sure someone already made a post about it but i came across a ublock origin add-on that blacklists around 950 AI websites and disables AI overview ☝️ so u can be free from seeing AI in your search

[soapdispensersalesman]

[corbindavenport]

Alt Text Creator 1.2 is now available!

Earlier this year, I released Alt Text Creator, a browser extension that can generate alternative text for images by right-clicking them, using OpenAI's GPT-4 with Vision model. The new v1.2 update is now rolling out, with support for OpenAI's newer AI models and a new custom server option.

Alt Text Creator can now use OpenAI's latest GPT-4o Mini or GPT-4o AI models for processing images, which are faster and cheaper than the original GPT-4 with Vision model that the extension previously used (and will soon be deprecated by OpenAI). You should be able to generate alt text for several images with less than $0.01 in API billing. Alt Text Creator still uses an API key provided by the user, and uses the low resolution option, so it runs at the lowest possible cost with the user's own API billing.

This update also introduces the ability to use a custom server instead of OpenAI. The LM Studio desktop application now supports downloading AI models with vision abilities to run locally, and can enable a web server to interact with the AI model using an OpenAI-like API. Alt Text Creator can now connect to that server (and theoretically other similar API limitations), allowing you to create alt text entirely on-device without paying OpenAI for API access.

The feature is a bit complicated to set up, is slower than OpenAI's API (unless you have an incredibly powerful PC), and requires leaving LM Studio open, so I don't expect many people will use this option for now. I primarily tested it with the Llava 1.5 7B model on a 16GB M1 Mac Mini, and it was about half the speed of an OpenAI request (8 vs 4 seconds for one example) while having generally lower-quality results.

You can download Alt Text Creator for Chrome and Firefox, and the source code is on GitHub. I still want to look into support for other AI models, like Google's Gemini, and the option for the user to change the prompt, but I wanted to get these changes out soon before GPT-4 Vision was deprecated.

Download for Google Chrome 

Download for Mozilla Firefox 

[bestzoomalternatives]

Unleash Your Gaming Potential: Discovering the Top VPNs for Gaming

In the ever-expanding world of online gaming, every millisecond counts. Whether you're battling in a fast-paced shooter, strategizing in a multiplayer online battle arena (MOBA), or exploring vast virtual worlds, a stable and secure internet connection is essential for success. This is where Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) come into play. But with so many options available, how do you choose the best VPN for gaming? Fear not! We're here to guide you through the labyrinth of choices and uncover the Top VPN for Gaming  that will elevate your gaming experience to new heights.

The Role of VPNs in Gaming: A Game-Changer in the Virtual Arena

Before we delve into the world of gaming VPNs, let's take a moment to understand their significance in the gaming realm. VPNs offer several key benefits that can enhance your gaming experience:

Reduced Latency: By connecting to a VPN server closer to the game server, you can minimize latency and enjoy smoother gameplay.

Protection Against DDoS Attacks: VPNs can shield your IP address, protecting you from Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks often used by malicious gamers to disrupt your gameplay.

Access to Geo-Restricted Content: Some games or gaming platforms may be region-locked, but with a VPN, you can bypass these restrictions and access content from anywhere in the world.

Enhanced Security: VPNs encrypt your internet connection, preventing hackers from intercepting your data and safeguarding your privacy while gaming.

Now that we've established the importance of VPNs in gaming, let's explore the top contenders in the market.

1. ExpressVPN: The Speed Demon of Gaming VPNs

Bold: ExpressVPN is synonymous with speed, reliability, and top-notch performance, making it a favorite among gamers worldwide.

Blazing-Fast Servers: With servers strategically located around the globe, ExpressVPN ensures lightning-fast speeds and minimal latency for uninterrupted gaming sessions.

Military-Grade Encryption: ExpressVPN employs AES-256 encryption and offers advanced security features like a kill switch and split tunneling to keep your gaming sessions secure and private.

Wide Device Compatibility: Whether you're gaming on PC, console, or mobile device, ExpressVPN offers seamless compatibility across a range of platforms.

24/7 Customer Support: Need assistance? ExpressVPN's dedicated support team is available round-the-clock to address any concerns or technical issues you may encounter.

ExpressVPN is like the Ferrari of gaming VPNs, offering unparalleled speed and performance to fuel your gaming adventures.

2. NordVPN: The Guardian of Your Gaming Realm

Bold: NordVPN combines robust security features, a vast server network, and budget-friendly pricing, making it a formidable choice for gamers seeking maximum protection without breaking the bank.

CyberSec Suite: NordVPN's CyberSec suite blocks ads, malware, and DDoS attacks, ensuring a secure and uninterrupted gaming experience.

Global Server Network: With thousands of servers in numerous countries, NordVPN provides ample options for optimizing your gaming connection and bypassing geo-restrictions.

Dedicated Gaming Servers: NordVPN offers specialized servers optimized for gaming, ensuring low-latency connections and stable performance for online gaming sessions.

User-Friendly Interface: NordVPN's intuitive interface makes it easy to connect to servers and customize your gaming experience with features like automatic server selection and customizable DNS settings.

NordVPN is like the guardian angel of your gaming realm, offering unparalleled protection and peace of mind while you conquer virtual worlds.

3. CyberGhost: The Ghost in the Machine

Bold: CyberGhost combines simplicity, affordability, and advanced features, making it an attractive option for gamers of all levels.

One-Click Connection: CyberGhost's one-click connection feature allows you to instantly connect to the best server for gaming, eliminating the hassle of manual server selection.

Streaming Optimized Servers: With specialized servers optimized for streaming and gaming, CyberGhost ensures smooth and uninterrupted gameplay without buffering or lag.

Strict No-Logs Policy: CyberGhost adheres to a strict no-logs policy, meaning your gaming activities remain private and anonymous.

Simultaneous Device Connections: With CyberGhost, you can connect up to seven devices simultaneously, allowing you to game on multiple platforms without compromising speed or performance.

CyberGhost is like the ghost in the machine, silently protecting your gaming endeavors while you conquer virtual worlds with ease.

Conclusion: Level Up Your Gaming Experience with the Right VPN

In a world where every second counts, choosing the right VPN can make all the difference in your gaming experience. Whether you prioritize speed, security, or affordability, there's a VPN out there that's perfect for you. So why wait? Elevate your gaming experience to new heights with the top VPNs for gaming and embark on a journey of uninterrupted, high-speed gaming bliss. After all, in the virtual arena, victory favors the swift and the secure.

[awaketake]

Struggling to keep up with content creation using ChatGPT? This video explores 10 ChatGPT Chrome Extensions.

These ChatGPT Chrome Extensions will help you churn out unique content and speed-up your workflow!

From pre-made templates to voice recognition and search engine integration. These extensions offer a variety of functionalities to boost your productivity.

Chrome extensions will work on most chrome based browsers including Brave, Opera, Vivaldi and others.

Here are the ChatGPT Chrome Extensions covered in this video:

1️⃣ Keywords Everywhere Generate SEO friendly content with structured keyword research templates.

2️⃣ YouTube Summary with ChatGPT & Claude Summarize YouTube videos for repurposing content and learning.

3️⃣ Sider ChatGPT Sidebar All-in-one AI tool with PDF analysis, writing, OCR and more.

4️⃣ Web ChatGPT Access real-time search engine data to enhance ChatGPT's responses.

5️⃣ AI Prompt Genius Organize your custom ChatGPT prompts for easy access and future use.

6️⃣ ChatGPT for Google Gain insights from search results with ChatGPT comparisons and summaries.

7️⃣ Replai Craft engaging replies for Twitter and LinkedIn posts using AI.

8️⃣ & 9️⃣ Talk to ChatGPT & Promptheus ChatGPT using your voice and listen to the responses.

🔟 AIPRM Library of 3600+ curated prompt templates for various content creation needs.

At the end I will show how to speed up your workflow using ChatGPT Prompt Templates and the ChatGPT Desktop App.

You don't need to type a prompt every single time! Instead copy/ paste the prompt from the template, replace the keywords and hit enter.

[veal-exe]

Y’all have got to stop replacing critical thinking with apps and extensions. People go on and on about how AI makes people lazy (true), but barely anyone talks about how things like Shinigami Eyes, an extension now infamous for being used to discriminate against trans and intersex people, actually discourage people from learning how to spot TER/TIRF/TRF rhetoric themselves.

This isn’t just about AI or browser extensions; it’s about the bigger issue of outsourcing your own judgment to digital tools that can’t actually think for you. When you rely on an algorithm to tell you what’s safe or not, you stop learning how to analyze context, pick up on coded language, and form your own conclusions. That’s a real problem.

These tools might seem convenient, but they also make you vulnerable. What happens when you don’t have access to them anymore? Or when the people behind them have their own biases and agendas? We’ve already, again, seen how Shinigami Eyes has been weaponized against trans and intersex people. If you don’t know how to think critically on your own, you’re leaving yourself wide open to misinformation and manipulation.

Instead of letting an app or extension decide things for you, take the time to actually learn. Get familiar with dog whistles, coded language, and the way harmful ideologies spread. Read firsthand accounts from marginalized people, study patterns in rhetoric, and have real conversations. This isn’t just about activism! it’s basic media literacy in a world where bad actors are constantly shifting tactics!

I’m not saying you can’t use digital tools at all. If they help, cool. But don’t lean on them like a crutch before you even know how to walk. Knowledge that’s actually yours can’t be taken away by a software update, a deplatforming, or an algorithm tweak.

Bottom line: Stop letting apps think for you. Learn how to recognize danger on your own, because at the end of the day, no tool is ever going to replace the value of an informed, critical mind.

[pericardium-and-glass]

Angry about Lore.fm the "AO3 Audible app"

For those who don't know, Lore.fm is an app that's advertised as "audible for AO3". It uses AI text-to-speech voices to read fics on an app completely separated from AO3 and creates a local copy of the fic audio on your device. It is stated to be non-profit.

1. It's opt-out not opt-in, that alone is a red flag and worthy of suspicion. The only way to not get your fic used without permission is to email them - it is unsafe and dubious to hand out personal email addresses to companies you don't know.

2. It takes engagement and agency away from the authors. Readers using this app don't even need to interact with the original AO3 post. Only a link is needed to generate the audio. An extension would've been significantly more ethical than an app.

3. Valid criticisms towards this project are labelled by the developer as "ableist and classist". Most devices and browsers already have FREE screen readers available. Especially for IOS (since this is mainly advertised for IOS), the existing built-in accessibility screen reader is very decent! I'd know cause I've been using it for more than a decade!

4. The developers show zero transparency. The devs listed for this app are also in a company that made an AI WRITING/STORYTELLING APP called Spinoff. The fact that this information is hidden on the appstore for Lore.fm tells me all that I need to know. I found the source for this on this comment by CupcakeBeautiful. [Edit: Unfortunately, the comment has been deleted by reddit for some reason, so I have removed the link to it.]

This whole thing pisses me off. Once again it shows that people don't respect and don't care about actual fic writers. I wish people would stop exploiting fanfiction authors under the guise of accessibility. Please think carefully if this is a company/project you'd want to support.

I don't usually post things like this on this blog, but I don't think a lot of people are aware of this situation on tumblr. Please feel free to add any information that I've missed. If this post comes off as aggressive, I apologise. I am just very frustrated.

[phoenixiancrystallist]

Bold of you to assume a robot girl's cock can read in the first place

I am SICK and TIRED of seeing so much hate towards Al! Al hasn't done ANYTHING to hurt ANYONE! Al is harmless!

But I can already hear the Al haters out there!

"Al isn't original!" No shit, Sherlock! That's what we love the most about Al.

"People aren't supposed to look like that!" That sounds like a problem between you and God, and frankly, plenty of people like the way Al looks.

"Al is just too WEIRD!" Have you ever thought that you might be to NORMAL to actually appreciate Al?

I think you all need to apologize to Al right now!

APOLOGIZE TO HIM

APOLOGIZE TO WEIRD AL RIGHT NOW!

[comicaurora]

With how difficult it's become for some people to use Google to find information for research, papers, and just general learning over the past year or so due to AI generated content and fluff posts being pushed to the top of searches what are some ways you're able to avoid this while researching online? (I.E. browser extensions, keywords, alternative search engines)

set the google search terms to "before 2020" and you'll filter out basically 100% of the AI-generated misinformation fluff. you'll still have to sift through the organic home-grown misinformation though

[jcmarchi]

The impact of Google AI Overview on SEO

New Post has been published on https://thedigitalinsider.com/the-impact-of-google-ai-overview-on-seo/

The impact of Google AI Overview on SEO

If you’re working in SEO or digital marketing, you’ve probably noticed how Google search results look different. That instant answer that pops up at the top of the page is AI Overview, and it’s changing the game. Instead of having to click through to a bunch of different websites, users can now get direct answers right there in the search results, thanks to AI.

Michal Kurzanowski, the CEO of OC24 LTD, a marketing company specialising in SEO, has seen a lot of changes over the years. But this new AI feature? It’s something entirely new. With his experience in helping businesses get better rankings, Michal understands how AI Overviews are reshaping SEO.

Back in May 2023, Google introduced the feature as Search Generative Experience (SGE), renamed it in May 2024 to AI Overview, and launched it in the US. By the end of the year, it expanded to over 130 countries. According to a case study analysing millions of search results, 78% of users were happy with the AI-generated answers. That’s a pretty good sign that this feature is here to stay.

What is AI overview?

It’s a feature that gives users the answer they’re looking for right at the top of the search results. Google’s AI pulls information from all over the web and gives a short response to the user’s query. Instead of making them click on multiple links, the AI compiles all the relevant info into a summary.

The answers are usually 160-170 words, just enough to give the user what they need, fast. But here’s the catch: when users get answers this quickly, they’re less likely to click on any links below. And that’s a problem for SEO because it means less traffic to your website.

Now, here’s the kicker: AI Overview can’t be disabled – there’s no way to opt out. However, if you want to get rid of it in your own browser, there’s a Chrome extension called Hide Google AI Overviews that will block it from appearing. But for the rest of us in digital marketing, it’s time to figure out how to work with the change.

How does AI overview affect SEO?

AI Overviews take up a massive chunk of a screen’s real estate. When they appear, they often dominate the top of the search results page, meaning even if your page ranks on page one, you could get passed over because the AI response already answered the question.

It’s not all bad, though. 33.4% of the links that show up in AI Overviews are actually from pages that are also ranked in the top 10 of organic search. So, it’s not like it’s impossible to get featured if your page isn’t number one, but it is tougher.

Now here’s where it gets interesting: 46.5% of the URLs that appear in AI Overviews are from websites ranked outside the top 50. So even pages that aren’t ranking highly can still be included. But, for those trying to grab organic traffic, it’s a double-edged sword.

The domains that show up most often on search pages with AI Overviews are youtube.com, quora.com, wikipedia.org, reddit.com, among others, and information requests are most often generated by AI Overview (about 93%).

https://youtube.com/watch?v=xUyGAbwuTas%3Fsi%3DTWaNTDR_vWUOXv0X

How to optimise content for AI overview

This is a dynamic field, and you need to be ready for changes, because SEO is always about challenges, testing, algorithm changes, and so on. AI Overview can actually help a brand become more recognisable and improve its reputation if you get on its radar. Content optimisation is still important, but other factors now play a major role. Michal Kurzanowski has put together a checklist for creating top-notch content that Google’s artificial intelligence will like.

Follow Google’s recommendations for authors, as it automatically selects links for AI-powered response blocks from various sources, including sites that meet search engine quality standards.

Start with a strong intro: The first 100 words of your page are crucial. Make sure they answer the user’s main question right off the bat. The quicker you get to the point, the better.

Keep content fresh and relevant: AI likes fresh content. Update your pages regularly, and make sure your information is always relevant to the questions people are asking.

Use descriptive headings: Don’t just throw random headings in there. Use H1, H2, and H3 tags that are specific and describe exactly what the content is about.

Q&A format works well because many AI responses are structured this way, and it helps increase your chances of being selected.

Lists Are key: Artificial intelligence loves numbered and bulleted lists! About 40% of responses come from content that includes lists.

Quality over quantity: Share original research, insights, and your own case studies. Google isn’t interested in generic stuff – it’s looking for real expertise.

Including quotes and statistics makes your content more authoritative. It can boost your chances of being featured by 30-40%, a huge win.

Visuals and interactive elements: Add videos, infographics, and quizzes to keep users engaged.

EEAT principle: The one’s huge – make sure your content reflects expertise, authoritativeness, and trustworthiness. The more your content shows these qualities, the better.

Final thoughts

Let’s be real: the SEO world is shifting fast. AI Overviews are here to stay, and it’s up to content creators to adapt. The days of getting traffic just by ranking high are changing. Now, it’s about providing the best, most relevant, and easiest-to-understand content that answers users’ questions quickly.

For businesses like OC24 Limited, staying ahead of these changes is essential. Embrace AI Overviews by optimising your content in a way that both Google and users love, and you’ll not only keep up but thrive.

[princesspetticoat]

The Muse of Her Ruin

Artist Modern AU: Chapter 1/? — Caramel

Summary:

Los Angeles was supposed to be your perfect canvas, but the struggle to make it leaves you feeling burnt out – until Agatha Harkness paints you into her world.

In her hands, you’re more than an artist, and she knows exactly how to mold you into her newest masterpiece.

Tags:

agatha!reader, age gap, mommy kink, slow burn, mean!agatha, possessive!agatha, AU: Art world of Los Angeles, portrait of a witch on fire, reader is babygirl, the witch wears prada, sugar mommy vibes, slight Rio/reader but only to make Agatha jealous, agatha can’t beat the AI allegations, dacryphilia, eventual smut, angst, MDLG, bratty bottom, BDSM, praise kink, degradation, strap-ons, anal, dub con, slight piss kink, squirting, power dynamics, possible memory loss and magic maybe idk, kitten play, electrostimulation, humiliation, overstimulation, exhibitionism for the art, let the bodies hit the floor, more tags later because i’m sure i’ll find something else to be foul about

Links: Twitter | AO3

Chapter 1: Caramel

It isn’t the first time a beautiful woman has stopped you in your doom scrolling on the internet. You’ve had your share of rabbit-holing through Instagram profiles, tagged photos, your finger hovering over the DM button with a wave of confidence that only comes when you’ve had a drink or two in your system.

But this woman, this one comes with an extension of discovery.

Just by googling her name, a thousand articles pop up. Art piece installations cascade every website, timeline, and city cultural journal. Jesus, then the red carpet photos multiply as the SEO of your web browser catches on to your sudden enthrall of dark brown hair and piercing blue eyes.

Oh, and the hashtags. #WitchyArt #HarknessAndDesire #CursedCanvas. Layers of art plummet before you, most requesting to select if you’d like to view the art or not because of its lewd nature, violating community guidelines.

#AgathaHarknessUnveiled

A public invitation to forbiddenness. You’re intrigued.

Then more pictures of her show up, next to her work, her models, famous celebrities that you never knew were part of the same circle. You realize you’ve been following her art closely for years, and had even gone to one of her art installations at the LACMA a couple years back.

She has no social media and you quickly piece together why you haven’t been able to put a face to the name until now. The Agatha Harkness.

You curse yourself for living and breathing on Instagram, reading little excerpts about her pieces here and there, never proceeding past searching her name up one single time after seeing her most famous artwork grace the official Broad Museum verified account:

The Unbound: Agatha Harkness - A Palette of Desire contemporary collection of ‘22.

Ask AI or Search: Agatha Harkness

…

However, you were met with the reflection of: ‘⚠️ zero search results found’ staring back at you on your phone screen, and that was that.

Now, you pull open your ‘Painting Inspo’ Pinterest board to see a piece of hers pinned neatly between other modern art you admire. The pin is plainly titled and paired with a now-purple hyperlink to an article, with one of the most commanding portraits of her in a suit, standing sharply next to her work.

It had all been right there, connected, laid out before you. You scold yourself again. You could’ve been in this woman’s circle the moment you moved to Los Angeles. Only now she’s magically moved from your subconscious to reality.

All it took was a simple Google search to be completely floored.

Right place, right time, you think, as it were. Originally, you were filtering through junior-level marketing positions, revamping your resume for the umpteenth time. Waitressing just wasn’t cutting it anymore, you needed a big girl job. Even if you didn’t have the experience.

And, to be honest, people really do act like that in Los Angeles. Customer service is nothing short of unbearable.

You’d huffed and slammed your laptop, tired of the almost-hour it took to submit one clean job application, flopped on your bed, and began the inevitable doom scroll.

And there she was, in all her glory. Featured in one major headline that caught your eye (apart from every photo ever of her maddeningly hypnotizing smile).

Grand Opening of the Harkness Collection, March 2025 — DTLA, Seeking Social Media Manager Position.

You could do it, you think.

The link to apply for the position already looks infinitely better than the bland, morose copy/paste templates thrown around every typical job website like a hot potato.

This just might get your foot in the door.

You’ve painted your whole life, always the kid doodling in the corner of your notebooks in class. You’ve done your fair share of moronically smacking people with your big art portfolio at the end of each year in high school when you rounded corners.

Art school in Portland had its ups and downs. Your father used every last penny he had to see your dreams come true, and your mother hated you for it. Blamed you, even, for sucking his wallet dry. But it was of his own accord to pay for tuition, and you had nothing else to show for it. You had a real talent.

At least, that’s what Mrs. Montgomery had told you.

Your art teacher for grades 11-12 was someone who was stern but had a mother’s touch. You really only knew the stern part back home, and then some, after the divorce.

But Mrs. Montgomery not only put you on a pedestal, she really critiqued you. She actually pushed you, improved your skills and adorned her Letter of Recommendation to your chosen college with accolades of admiration you couldn’t possibly achieve from your own mother.

If it wasn’t obvious already, you were completely smitten. And you know what else? You could trust her as far as you could throw her.

The after school meetings, the one-on-one sessions after class to help finish up an end of the year project. Anything to get a sliver of praise. Anything to prevent the bus ride home.

After college, though, you moved to Los Angeles in hopes of joining a gallery or an art community. You got sucked into the limelight, the overbearing and overwhelming nature of the city of angels. Everyone seemingly looks better than you, doing more than you, everyone trying to prove themselves somewhere. Nothing felt real.

You felt like a failure.

Email threads to galleries went stale and not to mention renting out studios could carve a hole into your credit card. It’s been three whole years since moving here after college, stuck in the same job you started with. The only real friend you made was from college, Oliver, who really was the one who dragged you out to California in the first place.

One friend, one lame job, one-room studio apartment, and no art to show for it. You start to think that this dream was meant to fizzle out and you’re supposed to become another cog in the wheel of Capitalism just like everybody else.

Whatever. You craft a partially-truthful resume, and an overzealous cover letter.

Somewhere in there you lie about managing a social media page for a cafe that doesn’t exist, and that you’ve worked with a few semi-recognizable artists in the industry as their interns. Right.

But for the record, this is working for Agatha Harkness. You’ve got to make it look like you’re somebody. You imagine yourself at her side on those red carpets, getting to pick her brain about all the art she’s created. You’ll get to show her the paintings you made, she’ll praise you, you’ll blush, and you’ll fall pathetically under her spell. Fuck.

Do you want the job or do you want her?

You suppose wanting both isn’t selfish. It’s ambitious. And you’re sick of circling around a realm that’s just out of reach.

You look at the unfinished canvases stowed in the corner of your apartment, the murky ‘mystery soup’ graying in several mason jars that scatter your work area. The dried paint, the tubes of acrylics strewn about. You can’t even remember the last time you painted.

If a hot, older woman was the motivation to be the artist you were always meant to be, then fuck it. You hit ‘submit’ on the application and sigh, closing your laptop with a better feeling of finality than the first time.

You never really get your hopes up about a job position, but for the rest of the day you find yourself tapping away anxiously, your mind scattered with the possibility of Agatha Harkness, of all people, becoming your boss.

————————————

The next morning you’re disruptively awakened by the buzzing of your phone. You begrudgingly hit ‘accept’ on the unknown number and pick up the line.

“Hello?” you answer and do your best not to sound utterly corpse-like.

“Hi!” a sweet voice greets you from the other end, “my name is Jennifer Kale, calling about the social media manager position for Ms. Harkness. Is this —?”

“Yes,” you shoot up, now seated in bed and exclaim before she can even finish her sentence. “This is she.”

She goes on to tell you how impressed she was with your resume and your expert copyright. You did always have a way with words, you forget how powerful they are as a way to get you exactly what you want.

“I saw in your CV that you have your work displayed at a cafe in Echo Park, is that right?”

You tell her of the few pieces you have displayed there and how you’ve made good friends with the owner. Jen mentions she’s relayed your portfolio, website, and resume to Agatha already and your breath instantly hitches.

She then goes to say that Agatha would like to personally meet you at that cafe for an interview. Tomorrow.

You nod and stutter a quick ‘yes’ into the speaker, forgetting you were on the phone at all. Lost in the possibility — no, actuality — of meeting Agatha.

After exchanging times and contact information, the line clicks blank and all the roaring thoughts begin to pour in. The anxiety, the expectations, the thought of being examined, let alone perceived by this powerful woman.

Your stomach kind of flutters at the thought, though. Her domineering presence picking you apart until you tell her exactly what she wants…and then she’ll hire you.

The confidence you feel mixed with the sheer horror of pretending you’re more than you say you are. You hope she doesn’t see through the lies.

But then again, so many people in the world have jobs they aren’t qualified for. They don’t even know what they’re doing, especially bosses and CEOs. So you’re sure Agatha can appreciate a little ‘fake it til you make it’; particularly from someone who really wants this.

————————————

You arrive infinitely early to the interview in the car you never use since everything in Downtown LA is right outside your apartment door.

The parking was the biggest hurdle but you gave yourself ample time to prepare.

The sun beats down on you as you exit your car, despite the crisp air of the early Spring morning. You shuffle down the hill to the sprawling city strip of hipster cafes, vintage thrifts, and mom ‘n pop shops. Your favorite cafe is squished between them, a true hole in the wall.

One of your favorite baristas greets you from behind the counter when you walk in. It looks like you beat the morning rush, everyone already taken to their seats, noses pressed to their laptops in concentration.

You order your favorite iced latte and wait at the bar, albeit with impatience. The barista questions your nervousness and you lean in with excitement.

“I have an interview,” you smile.

“Here?!”

“Yes, here, well — not here here, but yeah. It’s with one of the most well known artists. She’s…fascinating.”

And you gush over her for a moment, her art, her looks, the job position, while periodically checking the clock that sits behind the espresso bar, like, every five seconds.

You notice their smile grows wider as you wrap up your story, handing you your latte. But what you don’t notice is the person who just walked in, approaching the next spot in line.

“Have a great interview,” the barista dazzles in a cheeky whisper, eyes flitting to someone behind you.

Your realization hits when you turn and your latte hits her, square in the chest.

The cold liquid clashes between you two as you bump into each other, the cap coming clean off, with bits of ice clattering to the floor.

“Oh my god I am so sorry,” you babble, reaching for napkins and grabbing a fistful from who knows where.

You scramble to wipe up the mess, avoiding eye contact as Agatha steps back to examine the huge spot now staining her crisp white shirt. She can’t even get a word in before you scurry to the bathroom.

How stupid can you possibly be?

You beat yourself up in your thoughts as you gather yourself, and, clumsily, several ice cubes that managed to fall into your bra.

With a wet paper towel you clean the coffee off your front as much as you can before taking a deep breath, fixing your hair in the mirror and hoping when you step out of the bathroom, she’ll still be there waiting for you.

The bathroom door teeters and squeaks awkwardly as you push it open. You survey the cafe lobby and find Agatha opening a notebook and pulling out papers, and your resume.

You don’t think she realized you’re the one she’s supposed to interview. And you can’t even weigh what scenario would be more embarrassing.

You slide into the chair across from her, snaking your bag down to the floor and pulling out your own resume copy. You notice her blouse is completely drink-free and it catches you off guard. The coffee stains on your shirt are terribly evident despite your efforts in cleaning yourself up.

“You should’ve written your name as Caramel at the top of your resume,” she states while still looking down at the paper. Oh, of course she knows it’s you.

Looking down at yourself you realize there’s a streak of caramel syrup dripping down your cleavage.

Your eyes flick to hers, and she’s looking at you now, for the first time. There’s a long beat that clenches your throat and you forget how to speak.

You know her eyes are blue but holy shit, they’re palpably blue. And they hold yours in suspension, her gaze lingering for a moment too long before returning to her paper.

Your cheeks warm with a feverish blush, and you take a napkin to wipe the syrup away, leaving your skin sticky and shiny.

Her eyes move to your cleavage again as she shifts slightly in her seat, adjusting her stature. She scans over your resume agonizingly slow now and this long gap of silence has your nerves bubbling.

Maybe it’s a good thing the coffee spilled, because you’re sure the caffeine would give you a panic attack right about now.

“It doesn’t state in here that you use condiments as a painting medium, so, tell me your process,” Agatha jokes, but her tone is blunt.

You breathe a laugh and smile anyway, wanting to squash the awkwardness and tension so badly. Taking a second, you muster up an ounce of courage. You have to prove yourself now after this train wreck.

“I could probably use caramel as a medium,” you shrug, meeting her stark gaze again.

Agatha quirks one brow, egging you to go on.

“It’s got a similar consistency to a fast dry. Could probably even be worked into a glaze too. It could make a really nice maple color over some oils. I work with acrylics, watercolors, too, but it probably would leave paintings like that,” you take in a ragged breath, your mind catching up to just how stupid you sound, “…sticky.”

She smiles for the first time, a wicked smolder perking the corners of her lips. Amusement flares in her eyes, and you swear you can almost see them darken.

“Your skills?”

You take a deep breath before you begin, grounding yourself. “Time management, organization, I’m ambitious and work well with others. I also have really good memori –”

“You know,” she dawdles, “none of your references called me back,” she states, practically disregarding the answer to her last question.

Your mouth parts in silence.

“Oh,” is the only pathetic word you can assemble. “That’s weird,” you breathe, thoroughly fucking failing.

“I’m sure they’re all busy artists.”

And you just know she’s seeing right through you.

“But…your copywriting is very good. I’ve seen your social media, your website, you’ve got a way with words, hon.”

Your neck and chest must be as red as your face now. But the way she looks at you, blue eyes dark yet twinkling with intrigue, you’re blushing for an entirely different reason.

“Thank you,” you manage, and you give her a truthful look that you really need this, that you really want this. Because you just want something to go right for once in your life. You need to find your purpose again.

It’s like she can hear your thoughts as she studies you. It’s hard to look away when you meet her eyes again. As if she’s holding you in the palm of her hand, weighing you, rolling you between her fingers, testing to see if she should clench and squeeze the dream right from your heart.

“You know, I don’t normally meet with artists in this circumstance, or even in such a…sticky manner.”

And you blush for the millionth time.

“But I’d like to test your writing skills. I’m hosting a live painting session this weekend that I want you to come to and write a little mockup article for. If I dig it, you get the job, sweetheart.”

Her words drip like honey, the opportunity laid out before you, sounding sweet to your ears. It’s almost unbelievable.

“Wow, thank you so much Ms. Harkness,” you fawn, beaming a smile.

“Agatha,” she says warmly, holding out her hand for you to shake.

You hesitate for a moment before taking her hand in yours, her slender, delicate fingers just barely grazing the inside of your wrist. Something flutters in your stomach at the contact, like a chemical reaction right in your core.

The embrace is subtle, but it carries the weight of something more than just a job, more than just a task she’s asking you to complete. You tug your hand away, but the air between you stays charged.

“I won’t let you down,” you exhale earnestly.

Agatha blinks at you slowly, that smile never faltering, “good girl.”

She rises now, collecting her papers and notebook, storing them inside a black tote bag. “My assistant will be in touch.”

You absentmindedly nod to her, feeling her presence leave, with the click of the cafe door echoing in your ears. You’re completely dumbfounded. What just happened?

Did you actually manage to fake your way to the top? You have a real shot now at getting this position. And the way she looked at you, like she just knew what you were capable of?

Her request is simple, just a mockup article. Nothing truly serious. The significance of her words, though, make your heart race. The heady mix of exhilaration and nerve wracking anticipation makes you dizzy at the thought. And her praise.

Good girl.

You’re completely slack-jawed at the thought of it again. You just know you’re in for something more than just a mere task.

Whatever she wants from you, you’ll give it – willingly, completely, without question.

[sybaritick]

the inevitable tension between:

In an effort to demystify programming, which many people still think of as a skill that requires some sort of exceptional intelligence or training, I will always emphasize that basically anyone can do simple programming tasks like creating their own browser extension or simple website, using SQL to query a database, making data visualizations with matplotlib, etc. You can learn to do this in a week. If you're not sure you can for real just ask me (dm here or on Discord). it IS easy and anyone CAN do it! This isn't me saying "learn to code to get a job," which used to be decent advice 5 years ago but isn't any more because of AI and market saturation. More just "if there is something you want to do, at work or as a personal thing, that requires programming skills you think you might not have, I bet you can do it anyway. Do it!"

Okay maybe the reason I think this way is because my dad was teaching me Java when I was literally 8 years old