How NDAs Protect Power Instead of People 7 | 15

10 snips

Apr 9, 2025

The show dives into the troubling use of NDAs and forced arbitration that silence employees and protect corporate power. It challenges manipulative marketing practices targeting vulnerable youth and discusses the ethical dilemmas surrounding these tactics. The hosts share personal stories about the repercussions of NDAs and urge for cultural change in organizations. They advocate for accountability, transparency, and the importance of employee voices, reinforcing that true leadership involves doing the right thing, not just protecting oneself.

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ANECDOTE

Emotional Targeting

Facebook/Meta offered advertisers the ability to target teens during moments of vulnerability.
This emotional targeting was systemic and profitable, prioritizing profits over user well-being.

INSIGHT

Optimism Bias in Tech

Tech often overvalues potential benefits while minimizing current harm.
This creates a harm-perpetuating cycle, hindering meaningful conversations about negative consequences.

ANECDOTE

Kim's NDA Story

Kim Scott asked an employee to sign an NDA, prioritizing self-preservation over addressing potential wrongdoing.
She acknowledges succumbing to institutional betrayal and the corrupting influence of power.

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