Marketplace "Hacks" creators on collaboration, S5, and the state of comedy
13 snips
Aug 13, 2025 
In this insightful discussion, Paul W. Downs and Jen Statsky, the creative minds behind HBO Max's 'Hacks', dive into the intricate dance between artistic vision and commercial success. They reflect on the show's portrayal of the comedy landscape, shedding light on their collaborative writing process and the pressures of the final season. Additionally, they explore the emotional bond audiences form with characters, while navigating the evolving dynamics of the television industry. Expect candid insights and behind-the-scenes stories that highlight the challenges of bringing humor to life!
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Government Data Losing Granularity
- Government survey response rates have fallen sharply, dropping overall response to under 50% for some job data collection.
- Low response rates force heavier weighting and reduce granularity, making localized insights less reliable.
Job Sites Pivot As Market Softens
- The labor market is softening: job postings fall while applications rise on many platforms.
- Job sites are shifting revenue strategies because fewer employers pay to post, while jobseekers may pay for premium features.
Handshake Trains AI With Human Experts
- Handshake rep Jonathan Stoll described using human experts to train foundational AI models for pay.
- He said Handshake AI could soon generate nearly half the company's revenue, projecting $100 million a year.