A Bit of Optimism

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

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.

01:04:18

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Alexis Ohanian

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Quick takeaways

Alexis Ohanian emphasizes that aligning business decisions with core values fosters ethical practices and strengthens company reputation over time.

The impact of imposter syndrome can transform feelings of inadequacy into a powerful motivation for aspiring entrepreneurs to succeed.

The significance of mentorship is highlighted as crucial for personal and professional growth, shaping resilient individuals in the workforce.

Deep dives

The Importance of Long-Term Values in Business

Long-term greed, as opposed to short-term gain, emerges as a fundamental principle in successful business ventures. Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit, emphasizes that aligning business decisions with core values not only fosters ethical practices but also strengthens company reputation over time. This is evident in his advocacy for women’s sports, climate change initiatives, and worker rights, showcasing how investing with values can drive sustainable growth. The acknowledgment of these principles is increasingly vital in a world where technology profoundly influences societal and cultural changes.

Intro

2min

Overcoming Inadequacy in Tech

20min

Race for Tech Supremacy

7min

Monopolies and Market Ethics

8min

From Short-Term Gains to Long-Term Sustainability

16min

The Illusion of Overnight Success

3min

Embracing Change and Empowering Voices

8min

In 2020, Reddit co-founder Alexis Ohanian resigned from his own company in protest. After 15 years building Reddit into a social media juggernaut, why leave?

The answer is values. Alexis is the kind of entrepreneur and investor who believes that integrity and long term profits go hand in hand. It’s the reason he started his new company 776, allowing him to invest in startups that are trying to make the world a better place. And it’s the reason he resigned from Reddit after George Floyd was killed, requesting the board replace him with a Black director.

In this conversation, Alexis shares with me his thoughts on the future of entrepreneurship, the race for AGI, climate change, and the principles that guide the way he leads. It turns out, building a business with values is the best thing for long term greed.

This...is A Bit of Optimism

For more on Alexis and his work, check out:

776

alexisohanian.com