Guillaume Chaslot

When we press play on a YouTube video, we set in motion an algorithm that taps all available data to find the next video that keeps us glued to the screen. Because of its advertising-based business model, YouTube’s top priority is not to help us learn to play the accordion, tie a bow tie, heal an injury, or see a new city — it’s to keep us staring at the screen for as long as possible, regardless of the content. This episode’s guest, AI expert Guillaume Chaslot, helped write YouTube’s recommendation engine and explains how those priorities spin up outrage, conspiracy theories and extremism. After leaving YouTube, Guillaume’s mission became shedding light on those hidden patterns on his website, AlgoTransparency.org, which tracks and publicizes YouTube recommendations for controversial content channels. Through his work, he encourages YouTube to take responsibility for the videos it promotes and aims to give viewers more control.

Caleb Kane, a young man whose journey into online radicalization is explored, shares his transformative experiences in the YouTube universe. He discusses how the internet provided him with belonging amidst loneliness and anxiety. Guillaume Chalot, a former Google employee, reflects on the impact of YouTube's recommendation algorithm and the ethical dilemmas faced in prioritizing viewership. Together, they dive into how digital platforms can both connect and isolate, highlighting the dangers of algorithmic filters and misinformation cycles.