Big Technology Podcast The Rise and Fall of Juul, With The Devil's Playbook Author Lauren Etter
Jun 2, 2021
Lauren Etter, a Bloomberg reporter and author of "The Devil's Playbook," dives into the Juul saga, revealing its rise from a health-focused alternative to a controversial player in the tobacco industry. She discusses the ethical dilemmas of marketing e-cigarettes to youth, the addictive nature of nicotine, and the regulatory gaps that enabled Juul's explosive growth. With sharp insights, Etter examines the impact of venture capital pressures on public health and the company's transformation, raising critical questions about tech ethics in today's landscape.
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Juul as a Tech Company
- Juul is considered a tech company because it innovated in a traditional market using technology.
- They received venture capital funding, located in San Francisco, and aimed to solve a problem with a technological solution.
Impact of VC Funding
- Venture capital funding pressured Juul to prioritize rapid growth, leading to questionable marketing choices.
- This focus on scaling quickly contributed to their current predicament.
5% Nicotine Pods
- Juul initially only offered 5% nicotine pods, the highest on the market, limiting options for lower concentrations.
- This decision likely targeted a youth demographic known for quicker addiction.
