I know this is preaching to the Canzano Choir, so very briefly: THIS is why we are here. This is what John has created. A community. Not a clickbait “chat board.” Bravo, John. And bravo, Mike. We all are rooting for you.
Title: Unwanted Support: Invasive Species on johncanzano.com
Subtitle: When Well-Wishers Turn into Trolls
Date: May 13, 2023
It's a peculiar irony that on a website where subscribers often revel in my misfortunes, an entirely different kind of unwelcome guest has made its presence known. While most online communities have to contend with trolls, narcissists, and individuals who delight in the downfall of others, the unique ecosystem of johncanzano.com has spawned a new invasive species: the seemingly supportive person with a hidden agenda.
In recent months, as I've chronicled my journey through both personal and professional challenges, an unexpected group has emerged from the depths of my comment section. These individuals initially appear to be genuinely supportive, expressing their empathy and concern for my well-being. However, a closer examination reveals their true nature—a parasitic relationship built on schadenfreude.
The phenomenon of trolls and narcissists is not new to the internet. They derive pleasure from sowing discord, reveling in the misery of others, and spreading toxicity wherever they go. But this new breed of invader is far more insidious. They camouflage themselves with sympathy and pretend to be genuine fans, only to exploit my vulnerability for their personal entertainment.
Their comments start innocently enough—expressions of encouragement, advice, or seemingly helpful suggestions. They claim to be concerned about my mental state, my career trajectory, or my personal life. Initially, I welcomed their apparent support, hoping to find solace among the waves of negativity that often inundate my website.
But it wasn't long before I began to sense a different motive beneath their well-wishing veneer. These supposed "supporters" took advantage of my openness, using it as an opportunity to twist my words, magnify my missteps, and fuel the fire of their fellow trolls. It became evident that their true satisfaction lay in prolonging my struggle, rather than aiding in my recovery.
The invasive nature of these individuals is most apparent when their supposed encouragement turns into a veiled attack. Behind their carefully crafted words, they leave a trail of toxicity, poisoning the well-intentioned community I had hoped to foster. They exploit my transparency and vulnerability, turning them into weapons against me.
As a journalist, I understand the importance of critical feedback and the value of differing opinions. However, it is disheartening to witness the exploitation of vulnerability for personal gain. It erodes trust and diminishes the potential for meaningful conversations that can truly drive positive change.
In an online landscape dominated by negativity, johncanzano.com was intended to be a sanctuary—a place where genuine discourse, empathy, and understanding could thrive. Unfortunately, this new breed of invader threatens to unravel the very fabric of what I had hoped to achieve.
But I am not deterred. I remain committed to fostering an inclusive community of passionate individuals who can engage in respectful dialogue. To that end, I will continue to moderate comments, root out the invasive species that threaten the wellbeing of this community, and strive to create an environment where genuine support can flourish.
While the trolls, narcissists, and those who take pleasure in my decline may still populate the corners of johncanzano.com, I am confident that by collectively standing against these invaders, we can reclaim the space for meaningful discussions and genuine support.
In the face of adversity, it is crucial to remember that true supporters rise above the noise, lending their unwavering encouragement without hidden agendas. To those of you who genuinely stand by me, thank you for your continued support. Together, we can overcome the challenges presented by these invasive elements and build a community rooted in authenticity and empathy.
John, Count me among your faithful, and tearful with this story. I read your column the moment I receive the email, and have referred 5 of my best friends. You supply so much more than the normal sports world. Thank You
Hi Robb, I agree with you. John's article so beautifully spun prompted me to call a friend who has a similar story and is trying to do something about it. The result is I've got a spring in my step today.
Its just so nice to see people helping each other these days...the World is upside down anyway and its just great to see positive input by so many good people.
I have two sons battling alcoholism every day. Both are sober today - one for 15 years, the other celebrated his first anniversary yesterday. Who knows what tomorrow brings. Every day is a battle. But having people around you who care, encouraging you - well, there's nothing like it.
Wow what a story. Thanks for making my day, John. I hope he keeps focused and loses his extra weight. He can do it. I’m praying for him. And God Bless you and your family, John, for all you do.
John, how many of these incredible human stories can you find to share with us? My battle with the fifteen or twenty pound of abdominal fat makes me feel ashamed that I not only don't successfully address it, but I whine about it as well. What an inspirational person to learn about and use as a personal motivation. Just keep them coming. Thanks, Charlie
Keep working Mike. It is well worth it. We are all behind you. Thanks John. I use to listen to you and remember when he was losing weight and on your show. Thanks John.
Keeping your weight down is a huge and constant struggle--we've all been there at some point in our lives. I'm there right now.
I hope you talk about Mike on today's show. I pray that he has a great support system of people who can keep him accountable. We're praying for you, Mike!!!
I know this is preaching to the Canzano Choir, so very briefly: THIS is why we are here. This is what John has created. A community. Not a clickbait “chat board.” Bravo, John. And bravo, Mike. We all are rooting for you.
Thanks Barry.
Title: Unwanted Support: Invasive Species on johncanzano.com
Subtitle: When Well-Wishers Turn into Trolls
Date: May 13, 2023
It's a peculiar irony that on a website where subscribers often revel in my misfortunes, an entirely different kind of unwelcome guest has made its presence known. While most online communities have to contend with trolls, narcissists, and individuals who delight in the downfall of others, the unique ecosystem of johncanzano.com has spawned a new invasive species: the seemingly supportive person with a hidden agenda.
In recent months, as I've chronicled my journey through both personal and professional challenges, an unexpected group has emerged from the depths of my comment section. These individuals initially appear to be genuinely supportive, expressing their empathy and concern for my well-being. However, a closer examination reveals their true nature—a parasitic relationship built on schadenfreude.
The phenomenon of trolls and narcissists is not new to the internet. They derive pleasure from sowing discord, reveling in the misery of others, and spreading toxicity wherever they go. But this new breed of invader is far more insidious. They camouflage themselves with sympathy and pretend to be genuine fans, only to exploit my vulnerability for their personal entertainment.
Their comments start innocently enough—expressions of encouragement, advice, or seemingly helpful suggestions. They claim to be concerned about my mental state, my career trajectory, or my personal life. Initially, I welcomed their apparent support, hoping to find solace among the waves of negativity that often inundate my website.
But it wasn't long before I began to sense a different motive beneath their well-wishing veneer. These supposed "supporters" took advantage of my openness, using it as an opportunity to twist my words, magnify my missteps, and fuel the fire of their fellow trolls. It became evident that their true satisfaction lay in prolonging my struggle, rather than aiding in my recovery.
The invasive nature of these individuals is most apparent when their supposed encouragement turns into a veiled attack. Behind their carefully crafted words, they leave a trail of toxicity, poisoning the well-intentioned community I had hoped to foster. They exploit my transparency and vulnerability, turning them into weapons against me.
As a journalist, I understand the importance of critical feedback and the value of differing opinions. However, it is disheartening to witness the exploitation of vulnerability for personal gain. It erodes trust and diminishes the potential for meaningful conversations that can truly drive positive change.
In an online landscape dominated by negativity, johncanzano.com was intended to be a sanctuary—a place where genuine discourse, empathy, and understanding could thrive. Unfortunately, this new breed of invader threatens to unravel the very fabric of what I had hoped to achieve.
But I am not deterred. I remain committed to fostering an inclusive community of passionate individuals who can engage in respectful dialogue. To that end, I will continue to moderate comments, root out the invasive species that threaten the wellbeing of this community, and strive to create an environment where genuine support can flourish.
While the trolls, narcissists, and those who take pleasure in my decline may still populate the corners of johncanzano.com, I am confident that by collectively standing against these invaders, we can reclaim the space for meaningful discussions and genuine support.
In the face of adversity, it is crucial to remember that true supporters rise above the noise, lending their unwavering encouragement without hidden agendas. To those of you who genuinely stand by me, thank you for your continued support. Together, we can overcome the challenges presented by these invasive elements and build a community rooted in authenticity and empathy.
I love the name. “ Canzano Choir”
😊 thanks, Ed. Kind of has a nice ring to it, yes?
John, what an amazing, uplifting story. Thank you!
I agree David. I think we all know someone who has demons to conquer. Great display of discipline by Mike and unity from his support network!
Mike … is on a journey
Thanks David
I’m glad you listened to your wife John.
Listened to your wife again
I keep telling myself…
Wives are great! We’re going in 40, and I’m almost thankful <G> everyday for my wife. Happy Mother’s Day dear!
Thanks for this
Wisdom…
I remember the weigh-ins. And how excited Mike was in his reporting and how encouraging you were. Mike, we're all still rooting for you.
It might have been the most important thing we did during those early years
John, Count me among your faithful, and tearful with this story. I read your column the moment I receive the email, and have referred 5 of my best friends. You supply so much more than the normal sports world. Thank You
Thank you Jim.
John... Mike and you inspire thousands of people neither of you will ever meet. They will remember. That's the power of a good example.
Thanks for this
A uplifting story to start my day...thank you JC and hang in there MIke...we all know you can do it!!!!!!!
Hi Robb, I agree with you. John's article so beautifully spun prompted me to call a friend who has a similar story and is trying to do something about it. The result is I've got a spring in my step today.
Its just so nice to see people helping each other these days...the World is upside down anyway and its just great to see positive input by so many good people.
Amen
Thanks for this
Great wisdom
Another "you can do it" story, Thanks John and to all of the Volunteers, some times it takes a village!
Good for you, John. Good for you.
I have two sons battling alcoholism every day. Both are sober today - one for 15 years, the other celebrated his first anniversary yesterday. Who knows what tomorrow brings. Every day is a battle. But having people around you who care, encouraging you - well, there's nothing like it.
Good for you.
Another great story John.
Wow what a story. Thanks for making my day, John. I hope he keeps focused and loses his extra weight. He can do it. I’m praying for him. And God Bless you and your family, John, for all you do.
John, how many of these incredible human stories can you find to share with us? My battle with the fifteen or twenty pound of abdominal fat makes me feel ashamed that I not only don't successfully address it, but I whine about it as well. What an inspirational person to learn about and use as a personal motivation. Just keep them coming. Thanks, Charlie
Charlie, can I like your comment 10 times over?
I added one for you, Chip.
LOL
I remember.
Net 191 is still something to be proud of!
Keep working Mike. It is well worth it. We are all behind you. Thanks John. I use to listen to you and remember when he was losing weight and on your show. Thanks John.
Thanks for sharing this John. It points out that seeking or accepting help of others who care is crucial in these battles with addiction of all sorts.
Hey John, thank you for the reminder story!
Keeping your weight down is a huge and constant struggle--we've all been there at some point in our lives. I'm there right now.
I hope you talk about Mike on today's show. I pray that he has a great support system of people who can keep him accountable. We're praying for you, Mike!!!