By OBBM Network Editorial Staff

Robert Bortins

Big tech’s grip on what we see, hear, and buy is tighter than most people admit.

Algorithms as Gatekeepers

Jacob Kite described the way platforms such as Instagram and TikTok orchestrate a sequence of emotional triggers—sadness, world events, suspense, fun—before slipping in an advertisement. “It shows you something that’s sad, then it shows you something that’s going on in the world, like a war that’s aggravating, then it shows you something that’s scary or that leaves you in suspense… and then it shows you an ad,” he explained. Kite likens the experience to “eating glass and staring into an abyss,” a metaphor borrowed from Elon Musk, underscoring how users can be drawn into a relentless loop without knowing where it will end.

Faith‑Based Foundations

The conversation turned to Classical Conversations, the homeschooling network that Kite credits with shaping his outlook. He expressed gratitude for the community, saying, “I’m so excited about all the things that Robert, you guys doing with Classical Conversations. It’s been a huge blessing for our family.” The program’s emphasis on classical education and Christian values laid the groundwork for his commitment to truth‑seeking and service.

Pocket Truth AI: A Tool for Legal Literacy

Kite’s newest venture, Pocket Truth AI, aims to fill a gap he sees in youth knowledge of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights. The app, still in development, promises “lifetime tracking” that can alert users in real‑time—such as during an encounter with law enforcement—about what they should or should not do. “It can tell you certain things you should be aware of or what not to be aware of, what not to do, what to do,” he said, illustrating a practical approach to civic education.

The broader problem, Kite noted, is that “most young people nowadays don’t know the Constitution. They don’t know the Bill of Rights. They don’t know what you should know about the law and what your rights are.” He framed this knowledge gap as especially urgent in a climate he described as “more tyrannical,” where rights are constantly being challenged.

Entrepreneurial Trials and Community Outreach

Beyond tech, Kite has dabbled in podcasting and other side ventures. He launched a podcast under his name, Jacob G. Kite, and maintains a website, jacobgkite.com, where listeners can access his content. He also shared a cautionary tale about a former business partner who turned out to be fraudulent, prompting him to discontinue that collaboration.

Despite setbacks, Kite remains active on Instagram and LinkedIn, using those platforms to connect with a broader audience and spread his message of truth. He encourages listeners to explore his upcoming businesses, which he says will launch soon, and to share his story with friends.

Implications for the Next Generation

Kite’s mission intertwines entrepreneurship, faith, and civic education. By leveraging technology to demystify legal rights, he hopes to empower young people to make informed decisions in a media landscape dominated by corporate algorithms. His approach reflects a growing movement among homeschoolers and faith‑based educators to blend classical learning with modern tools, seeking to safeguard liberty and truth for future generations.

As the conversation closed, the host reminded listeners to visit Kite’s website, follow his social channels, and spread the word about his initiatives. The dialogue underscored a broader cultural conversation about how technology, faith, and education intersect in the quest to protect individual freedoms.

The full episode of Refining Rhetoric with Robert Bortins is available on OBBM Network TV.