Kasey Machin: Protecting Online Communities by Ethically Moderating Content
Ladderworks is a publishing platform of diverse picture books and online curriculum with the mission to empower over a million kids to become social entrepreneurs. Our current series features interviews by our interplanetary journalist Spiffy with inspiring Social Entrepreneurs, Entrepreneurship Ecosystem Builders, and Changemakers who are advancing the UN SDGs.
Spiffy here! I’m back with the scoop on the entrepreneurial leaders of Planet Earth. As the only interplanetary journalist stationed on this blue planet, I’m thrilled to present this galactic exclusive with Kasey Machin, chief operating officer of Areto Labs. Let’s see what she is doing to make a positive impact in the world.
Spiffy: Welcome Kasey. Let’s jump right in. Can you tell me what challenge Areto Labs is addressing?
Kasey: Thanks for having me, Spiffy. At Areto Labs, we've created software that moderates social media toxicity in sectors like sports, media, and entertainment. We’re also devoted to protecting democracy and have had many wonderful partnerships with government and non-profit organizations. Our innovative approach focuses on making digital spaces respectful and safe. We employ ethical moderation practices to minimize the harm caused by online abuse and harassment, ensuring the mental well-being of community members and moderators alike.
Spiffy: What motivates you to do it?
Kasey: What drives me is envisioning a world where kindness prevails online. Addressing online abuse is more than raising awareness—it requires action. As a woman in technology, I'm passionate about leveraging technology for good. Our approach at Areto Labs is about more than just technology, it's about creating a positive impact both online and in real life. This includes using advanced tools like our proprietary MAMO software to detect subtle forms of abuse that are often overlooked. Our goal is a digital world where safety and respect are the norm.
Spiffy: That’s a great motivation! What would you say is the impact of your work?
Kasey: At Areto Labs, we empower teams and individuals, like our work with the New Jersey Devils and the rugby referee Ben O’Keeffe. With the Devils, our technology played a key role in promoting positivity during their Pride Night, reinforcing inclusivity in the hockey world. We also recently helped rugby referee Ben O’Keefe overcome online abuse, demonstrating how our technology can enhance the mental well-being and focus of individuals in high-pressure roles.
Spiffy: Is there anything else you would love to tell our audience?
Kasey: At Areto Labs, we're protecting online communities by ethically moderating content, from overtly toxic remarks to subtle microaggressions, while also tackling spam and illegal content. These efforts are crucial in preserving the integrity and health of digital communities. Our mission goes beyond technology—it involves fostering collaboration and a shared commitment across sectors to safeguard and uplift our online experiences. Together, we can transform the internet into a supportive, positive environment.
Spiffy: Thanks for speaking with me today, Kasey—it’s been an honor!
Kasey Machin is the founder and chief operating officer of Areto Labs, an Edmonton-based software company on a mission to transform digital community management using machine learning. Kasey's knack for turning inspiring visions into effective strategies is matched only by her ability to create an environment where teams excel and prosper. (First published on the Ladderworks website on February 22, 2024.)
The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the interviewee and do not necessarily reflect those of Ladderworks LLC.
© 2024 Ladderworks LLC. Edited by Sujit Kunte. Spiffy’s illustration by Shreyas Navare. For the Ladderworks digital curriculum to help K-3 kids advance the UN SDGs, visit Spiffy's Launchpad: Creative Entrepreneurship Workshops for K-3 Kids and their caregivers here.