The Grill Room Nuzzi, Wolff, and the Algorithm Apocalypse
Nov 25, 2025
Brian Morrissey, a media commentator and co-host of the People vs Algorithms podcast, teams up with media executive Troy Young to explore the shifting landscape of journalism. They discuss the rise of 'information entrepreneurs' like Olivia Nuzzi and Michael Wolff, contrasting them with traditional journalists. The conversation delves into performative reporting and whether legacy journalists should adopt newer, attention-driven tactics. They also unpack the tensions between direct-to-audience content and institutional journalism, revealing the evolving dynamics shaping media today.
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Performers Dominate The Information Space
- The information space now rewards performers who master narrative and tension over traditional reporting craft.
- Brian Morrissey argues many 'information entrepreneurs' mimic media mechanics but lack true journalistic instincts.
Find A Clear Way To Win
- Focus on a clear way to win and lean into the market's incentives rather than nostalgia for old distribution.
- Troy Young and Brian advise mastering a specific area or packaging that creates audience shortcuts.
Wolff's Access Comes With Ethical Friction
- Michael Wolff's access-heavy reporting shows how deep relationships can yield stories but clash with newsroom ethics.
- Troy recounts Wolff advising and sharing drafts with sources while still producing influential work.
