This Week in Startups Best of This Week in Startups: Week of October 26th, 2020
Oct 31, 2020
Reeves Wiedeman, author of 'Billion Dollar Loser,' dives into the ambitious highs and costly lows of startups like WeWork. He reveals the ethical dilemmas of high-growth ventures and their societal impacts. The conversation also touches on a significant investor meeting that highlights contrasting leadership styles. Additionally, there's a vibrant discussion on how social media shapes political accountability, exploring the responsibilities of platforms in an age dominated by digital discourse. A mix of serious insights and humor makes this an engaging listen!
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Episode notes
Masayoshi Son's Meeting
- Masayoshi Son arrived late to a meeting with Adam Neumann because he was meeting with Donald Trump.
- Son's meeting with Trump involved a proposed $50 billion investment to create jobs in the US.
WeWork's "Tech"
- Adam Neumann showcased WeWork's "technological advancements" like a temperature-changing phone booth and automatic standing desk.
- Reeves Wiedeman notes these were minor innovations and Neumann wasn't a tech-driven CEO.
SoftBank's Investment Strategy
- SoftBank's strategy of pursuing home runs, even with many misses, can distort industries.
- Subsidized services create uncertainty about true market values, raising questions about societal impact.
