#98: How Bluesky’s ‘Live Now’ Badge Is Rewriting the Rules of Open Social Media

Bluesky is rewriting the rules of social media with its new "Live Now" badge—a feature that encourages users to leave the app and watch livestreams on YouTube, Twitch, or other platforms. In this episode, we explore what this bold move means for open social media, creators, brands, and marketers. From boosting cross-platform reach to building authentic communities, Bluesky’s open-door approach could signal the end of the walled-garden era. We dive into the opportunities, challenges, and the bigger trend toward decentralized, interconnected networks. Is this the future of social media—and can brands keep up?(00:00) Intro(01:18) What is ‘Live Now’ badge on Bluesky? And what does it do?(02:32) Why would Bluesky be okay with sending its users away?(03:53) How could this feature impact the creator community?(05:34) What kind of opportunities and challenges for brands and marketers are there with a Live Now badge?(08:02) Is Live Now badge sign of an emerging trend of social media opening up?(10:30) What would an open social media landscape mean for brands and marketers?(12:42) Where do we go from here?