Pickax vs Big Tech: Free Speech, Bots, AI & Creator Control | Jeff Dornik Interview with VapinGamers

In this episode of Tools of the Trade, Jeff Dornik joins the show to break down why he built Pickax as a human-centered alternative to algorithm-driven platforms. He argues that “freedom of speech but not freedom of reach” is the modern censorship model, explains why verification and anti-bot design matter for real community, and warns that the AI endgame is replacing human creativity, work, and independent thought. Jeff also shares how Pickax integrates with Rumble, how creators can monetize without being punished for outbound links, and why the future belongs to platforms that serve people instead of controlling them.

Follow Jeff Dornik on Pickax - https://pickax.com/jeffdornik

Tune into The Jeff Dornik Show LIVE daily at 1pm ET on Rumble. Subscribe on Rumble and never miss a show. https://rumble.com/c/jeffdornik

Big Tech is silencing truth while farming your data to feed the machine. That’s why I built Pickax… a free speech platform that puts power back in your hands and your voice beyond their reach. Sign up today:https://pickax.com/?referralCode=y7wxvwq&refSource=copy

CHAPTERS
0:00 Host Welcomes Jeff Dornik and Introduces Pickax's Mission
4:10 Jeff Dornik on 'Freedom of Speech, Not Freedom of Reach' and Algorithms
7:23 Pickax's Human-Centered Algorithms Counter Big Tech's AI and Tribalism
11:40 Jeff Dornik's Transformation and the Call for Nuance in Online Discourse
16:42 Pickax's Human-Centered Verification and Anti-Bot Strategy for Creators
27:19 Navigating California's Political Landscape and the Erosion of Free Speech
35:31 Upholding Free Speech and Addressing AI's Societal Impact on Pickax
40:55 In-Depth Look at Pickax's Monetization, Mentorship and Creator Events
46:31 Pickax's Fair Revenue Share Model Incentivizes Platform Growth for Creators
51:07 Jeff Dornik's Concerns About AI Replacing Human Creativity
56:54 Pickax's Technical Choices, Brand Verification and Cloud Contingency Plan
1:00:48 Understanding Rumble's Shareholder Demands
1:05:53 Jeff Dornik's Vision for Pickax's Future, App Launch and Creator Opportunities