"Real People. Real Voices. Real Conversations"
John A. Smith, Jr.
Founder & CEO
Why I Started Yap-Bash
“I believe social media can challenge people without dividing them—and that meaningful conversation still matters.”
My Story
We've all experienced the frustration of carrying on an endless debate on social media platforms in which we aren't even sure if we're dealing with a human or a bot. Toxic comments are elevated and we are often amazed at the sheer volume of support they garner. Often times, it is artificial support that boost their rantings to the top of the comment feed. Cutting through the noise to even be heard is challenging at best. At worst, we all feel like we're being drowned out.
I believe there's better way. We should all have a seat at the table and our voices should carry more weight than
thousands of bots. Real conversations are still possible when we can have a turn at the stage and can challenge each other on ideas instead of the intensity of our rage. This will drive more credibility and allow us to increase our human interaction. Having a structure and accountability will make us take a moment to truly evaluate our positions and divisions while reconnecting with the same people that we took pleasure in insulting just to score points.
Bridging the great divide is still possible if we re-think social media and reinvent how we connect we each other.
My Background
As a Navy veteran, data analytics student, and someone who has spent years interacting with thousands of people through rideshare and everyday conversation, I’ve seen firsthand how deeply people want to be heard, understood, and connected. Those experiences exposed me to a wide range of perspectives, personalities, and frustrations with the way people communicate online today. Growing up with strong Southern roots and Midwest nurturing has given me an appreciation for authentic conversation, I began envisioning a platform that could bring structure, credibility, and real human interaction back to social engagement. That vision ultimately became Yap-Bash™—a platform designed to encourage meaningful dialogue, challenge ideas constructively, and create a more human-centered digital experience.