@clayogra I use irc but freenode bridges to Matrix, I joined Matrix too for the services there, so I can go between the two.
@clayogra On the other hand, give me something like IRC that does not track me, collect data, track my location, send me adverts over modern day stuff anyday.
I really like @aral idea of small-web, and the fact we can taking back our data. (same as with the Solid project) As soon as we can deploy anything in a way that is really simple, things may start to change.
I think in the light of what has happened with Google and Element we need to find alternatives to deployment or it will keep happening.