Akimbo: A Podcast from Seth Godin Fooled by spectrum
May 8, 2019
Explore the fascinating journey from the electromagnetic spectrum to our media landscape. Discover how early limitations in channels shaped national cultures and advertising. Learn how digital innovations and infinite networks have fractured mass audiences, giving rise to niche passions. Understand the shift from targeting broad markets to the smallest viable audience. Delve into the importance of creating connections and persistent effort in making impactful work. This insightful discussion unpacks the evolution of content and its implications for creators.
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Spectrum Created A Scarcity-Fueled Culture
- The electromagnetic spectrum created a temporary regime of scarcity that centralized culture via radio and television networks.
- That scarcity enabled nationwide brands and mass culture because one signal reached many places cheaply.
Networks Grew From Cost And Social Desire
- Networks formed because it was cheaper to create one high-quality broadcast and distribute it widely.
- People also wanted to hear what others were hearing, reinforcing mass culture and national brands.
Digital Ended Channel Scarcity
- Digital transmission shattered the technical scarcity of channels by enabling multiplexing and alternate carriers like Wi‑Fi and cables.
- This removed the need for a tiny number of national networks and opened room for billions of niche channels.
