This Week in Startups BuzzFeed vs Gawker, AI’s impact on the future of media, and more with Semafor’s Ben Smith | E1733
May 2, 2023
Join Ben Smith, co-founder and editor-in-chief of Semafor and former BuzzFeed News and New York Times journalist, as he dives into the media landscape's evolution. He discusses the rivalry between BuzzFeed and Gawker, shedding light on the shifting dynamics of journalism and the role of social media. Ben also explores the impact of media unions, the future of journalism amid tech innovations, and the challenges faced by media outlets like Vice and Vox. His insights bring a fresh perspective on the complex relationship between media and technology.
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Weblogs Inc. vs. Gawker
- Jason Calacanis and Nick Denton had a rivalry during the blogging era.
- Calacanis sold Weblogs Inc. for $30 million, while Denton's Gawker's final sale yielded less profit.
Blogging Empowered Direct Publishing
- Gen X journalists waited for permission to publish, unlike bloggers who published directly.
- Blogging empowered over-performers to bypass editors and connect with audiences directly.
Early Internet and Media Discontent
- The early internet offered opportunities for information arbitrage, as bloggers could publish news faster than traditional media.
- Mainstream media's credibility was declining, fueling a demand for alternative voices.