The Evolution and Independence of Reddit

Exploring Reddit's early years, including the growth of its popularity algorithm, struggles with attracting users, competition with Digg, acquisition by Conde Nast, regrets post-acquisition, and the subsequent departure of the founders. The chapter also covers the decision to sell Reddit, differentiation from competitors, the user revolt on Digg, and the transition to operational independence in 2011.

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Episode notes

In this week's episode, I dive into the origin, evolution, and challenges of Reddit— the internet’s greatest example of how a website can attract millions of users every single day... with no idea how to turn that devoted community into a viable business model.

Timestamps:

4:45 The origin of Reddit

7:23 Condé Nast acquires Reddit

9:44 The rise of Reddit

12:39 Reddit gains independence

16:00 Significant controversies

16:23 Misidentifying the Bostom bomber

17:48 NSFW content

20:00 AMAggedon

22:11 Snark Reddit & Trishyland

24:30 Gamestop

27:37 The future of Reddit