#user-generated content

My latest for WIRED is a deep dive into the user-generated chatbot hub Character.AI, which I looked at from a fannish lens. TL;DR this space is complicated—and it feels like we're only at the beginning. Featuring the copyright expertise of Meredith Rose and insights from fan studies scholars Nicolle Lamerichs and Effie Sapuridis.

The Bizarre Modern Reality of The Simpsons

Memorial Day weekend isn't just a time to honor service members — it's also one of the year's best windows for solar lead generation. With families home, energy bills on their minds, and a patriotic spirit in the air, smart solar companies use this holiday to attract highly motivated homeowners. Here are five strategies to consider for 2026 Memorial Day solar promotions: - Patriotic Social Media Campaigns: Blend solar imagery with American pride. Share real customer stories, video testimonials from veteran homeowners, and visuals of solar panels with flags to create emotional connections. - User-Generated Content: Encourage existing customers to post photos of their solar installations decorated for the holiday. A small incentive like a donation to a veteran charity or a gift card can increase participation and authenticity. - Limited-Time Financing Offers: Create urgency with special financing rates, zero-down options, or holiday-exclusive rebates available only during the long weekend. - Referral Programs with a Patriotic Twist: Launch a "Freedom to Save" referral campaign where both the referrer and new lead earn a bonus, tying the offer to energy independence. - Educational Outreach: Host a brief virtual event or share a downloadable guide on how solar helps protect against rising summer rates, positioning your brand as a helpful advisor rather than a pushy sales team. With careful planning and genuine respect for the holiday's meaning, these strategies can help solar companies build brand loyalty and generate qualified leads heading into summer.

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