Are we ready to take on the tech titans? Sacha Haworth thinks maybe—just maybe—we finally are. The head of the Tech Oversight Project joins me this week to talk about the pervasive influence of Big Tech on our lives, and why recognizing a growing allergy to that influence is becoming a centerpiece of political strategy. We discuss the public’s growing concerns over privacy, children’s addiction to technology, and the economic and environmental effects of tech companies’ big AI plans on local communities. Sacha shares insights on political will and the bipartisan potential to regulate and hold big tech accountable, and the court cases and regulatory moves she’ll be watching most closely in 2026 and beyond.

The Rip Current by Jacob Ward is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber.

00:00 Introduction: The Growing Influence of Tech

00:22 The Rip Current: Exploring Big Tech’s Impact

01:05 Guest Introduction: Sasha Hayworth

01:38 Election Insights: Tech’s Role in Political Wins

02:43 Tech and Economic Issues in Elections

03:35 The Rise of Data Centers and Their Impact

06:29 Personal Journey: From Policy School to Tech Oversight

10:41 The Tech Oversight Project: Mission and Goals

11:46 Shaping the Narrative: Tech in Politics

17:22 The Politics of Tech: Power and Influence

22:03 Economic Speculation and the Tech Bubble

28:36 Future Vision: The Impact of AI and Tech

31:22 The Impact of Job Loss and Tax Incentives

32:39 AI’s Influence on Young Minds

34:49 Parental Concerns and Legislative Efforts

40:28 The Dark Side of Chatbots

49:03 Section 230 and Legal Protections

01:00:56 Political Will and Bipartisan Efforts

01:03:43 Conclusion and Call to Action

This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit theripcurrent.substack.com/subscribe

TRUMP 50-Year Mortgages Are GREAT. Crazy Candace Keeps Clowning | The Mark Driscoll Show | Ep 06

The Mark Driscoll Podcast

Practical Trust-Building Practices

The AI-powered Podcast Player