Welcome to The Caffeinated Chronicle ☕️

Happy Sunday, and welcome to my very first newsletter. I’m so glad you’re here.

If you don’t know me yet, I’m Kristina. By day, I’m a mom, AI ethics advocate, brand and comms expert, and photographer. By night, I’m an underground activist and gamer (usually with coffee in hand). I created The Caffeinated Chronicle as a space to unpack what’s happening at the intersection of tech, psychology, marketing, and policy—with a sharp eye on AI and a healthy dose of skepticism.

I know your inbox is probably overflowing, so I’ll keep it light. You can expect newsletters about twice a month, give or take. Some pieces come with actions you can take, while others are meant to make you pause, question, and share. Either way, I hope it gives you something valuable to think about.

If you’re new or catching up, here are some recent posts, from newest to oldest:

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🧠 Trump’s AI Action Plan Studies Authoritarian Tech Playbooks
A short clause in Trump’s AI plan raises serious concerns about how free speech and AI “alignment” are being redefined. Is this defensive research or something more ideologically strategic?

🔐 The Health Data Grab: When Convenience Costs Too Much
The federal government is partnering with Big Tech on a health tracking system that sounds helpful but comes with major risks to privacy and equity. This piece breaks it down and includes concrete steps to protect yourself.

🆘 Gaza Aid Resources & Direct Action
A growing, vetted list of ways to provide direct aid to Palestinians in Gaza—from clean water and shelter to trauma support. No frills, just impact. If you don’t know where to start, this is a place.

🏙️ We’re Losing Third Places at the Cost of Community
As public gathering spaces disappear and corporate “experiences” take over, community is becoming a commodity. This piece explores what we’re losing and how to push back locally.

🤖 Why We're Getting AI Fatigue
Spoiler: it’s not AI itself that’s exhausting—it’s the hype, harm, and headlines. I break down the reasons behind the burnout and what we can do to stay grounded without checking out.

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I research every topic I write about, link to sources, and stay open to being called in if I miss the mark. I love having real conversations, so don’t hesitate to comment. This space isn’t about perfection, it’s about curiosity, context, and care.

Thanks again for subscribing and for being part of this growing caffeinated (or not) crew.

More soon,
Kristina

P.S. You can always reply to this email if you want to share a thought, ask a question, or just say hi. I really do read them.