Masters of Scale

Rapid Response: Lessons from the demise of BuzzFeed News, w/CEO Jonah Peretti

May 4, 2023

Jonah Peretti, Co-founder and CEO of BuzzFeed, shares his insights into navigating the turbulent digital media landscape. He discusses the surprising shutdown of BuzzFeed News and the necessity to pivot toward new opportunities in the creator economy. Peretti emphasizes the importance of optimism in entrepreneurship and the role of generative AI in shaping future content. He reflects on media challenges, the emotional impact of change on staff, and the potential for collaboration between independent creators and traditional outlets.

25:53

Episode guests

Jonah Peretti

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Adapting Your Business to Generative AI: Technological Expertise or Tool Application?

00:41

Lessons on Taking Risks and Addressing Weaknesses in Business

00:42

Intro

3min

Embracing Optimism in Entrepreneurship and Hiring

2min

The Transformation of BuzzFeed News

9min

Navigating Media Challenges and Future Partnerships

3min

Navigating Change: BuzzFeed's AI Journey

10min

Embracing Risk and Building Resilient Teams

4min

Rapid Response with Bob Safian: If the most prestigious aspect of your business isn’t paying dividends, should you leave it in the past? BuzzFeed’s co-founder and CEO, Jonah Peretti discusses the surprising decision to shutter the Pulitzer Prize-winning BuzzFeed News, and how the company seeks to re-anchor toward the bright future of media. In his third appearance on Rapid Response, Peretti shares lessons about redefining the tool of social media, leading a private versus public business, and how to tune-out the external noise.

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