Decoder with Nilay Patel Recode Decode: Sridhar Ramaswamy
Jun 29, 2020
Sridhar Ramaswamy, former Google VP and co-founder of privacy-focused search engine Neeva, discusses his journey from tech titan to startup innovator. He shares insights on how Google transformed into an ad-driven powerhouse and why user privacy is crucial in today’s digital age. Ramaswamy explains Neeva’s unique subscription model, which prioritizes user data security. He also addresses the challenges of content moderation, the importance of diversity in tech, and critiques larger tech companies on data practices, all while aiming to redefine search experiences for a broader audience.
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Accidental Ads Assignment
- Ramaswamy's initial placement in Google's ads team was somewhat accidental, due to the word "database" on his resume.
- This seemingly random assignment led to a significant career trajectory within Google's advertising division.
Sridhar's Career Path
- Sridhar Ramaswamy's career began in academia, earning a PhD from Brown and working at Bell Labs.
- He transitioned to Silicon Valley, joined a startup during the dot-com boom and bust, and eventually landed at Google in 2003.
Google's Evolving Business Model
- Google's initial focus was on search quality, not monetization, evidenced by Larry Page's interest in TV search.
- The acquisition of DoubleClick marked a shift towards broader advertising ambitions, aiming to serve ads both on and off Google.