A Bit of Optimism

Alexis Ohanian: Why I Left Reddit and Why Greed Can Inspire Good

48 snips
Nov 12, 2024
Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit and founder of 776, discusses his resignation from Reddit in protest of social injustices. He believes in merging integrity with long-term gains in entrepreneurship. The conversation dives into the race for AI supremacy, the challenges of monopolies in tech, and the importance of ethical standards. Ohanian emphasizes the need for sustainable capitalism and the role of young entrepreneurs in tackling climate change. He also reflects on the progress in women's sports, highlighting the significance of empowering voices.
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ANECDOTE

Paul Graham's Comment

  • Alexis Ohanian was once told by Paul Graham that he "sounded so much smarter when he's speaking in German than in English."
  • This motivated him to prove Graham wrong, eventually leading to a TED Talk four years later.
ANECDOTE

A Rounding Error

  • Alexis Ohanian uses criticism as motivation, putting negative comments "on the wall" to fuel his drive.
  • He recalled being told by a Yahoo executive that Reddit was "a rounding error" compared to Yahoo.
INSIGHT

Source of Drive

  • While some successful tech entrepreneurs have "brokenness" as a motivator, it's not a requirement.
  • Having at least one supportive person in your life can make a big difference.
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