

Mike Masnick
CEO and founder of Techdirt, a blog focusing on technology, intellectual property, and internet policy. Known for his commentary on Section 230 and internet regulation.
Top 10 podcasts with Mike Masnick
Ranked by the Snipd community

31 snips
Jan 9, 2026 • 1h 16min
Grok’s "Digital Undressing" Crisis and a Manifesto to Build a Better Internet
In this insightful discussion, technologist Alex Komoroske, tech policy expert Mike Masnick, and product leader Zoe Weinberg delve into the troubling surge of nonconsensual imagery on X. They explore the Resonant Computing Manifesto, advocating for technology that nourishes rather than exploits. Topics include the dangers of engagement-driven design, the importance of user agency, and the need for pro-social technology. The trio emphasizes a hopeful vision for the future, highlighting principles that empower users and foster respectful digital environments.

31 snips
Dec 28, 2025 • 3h 57min
IM 851: Intelligent Machines Best of 2025 - Our Favorite Interviews from 2025
Mike Masnick, founder of TechDirt, shares insights on personalized software creation and using AI as an editor. Ray Kurzweil delves into timelines for AGI, discussing human-AI merging and his visions for longevity. Emily Bender and Alex Hanna critique AI hype, highlighting its environmental impact and the importance of precise language. The anonymous Pliny the Liberator discusses jailbreaking for transparency, while Kevin Kelly creatively frames AIs as diverse entities, urging long-term optimism. A lively exploration of technology’s future unfolds!

27 snips
Mar 20, 2025 • 54min
Trump Official Brendan Carr's War on Free Speech
Mike Masnick, founder of TechDirt and a leading voice on free speech and internet policy, joins to discuss Brendan Carr's alarming influence as an FCC chair. They dive into how Carr's intimidation tactics affect journalists and media outlets, reshaping America's free speech landscape. Masnick highlights the hypocrisy of Carr's 'free speech warrior' narrative while threatening dissent through government power. The conversation navigates the complex relationship between social media censorship, regulation, and the critical need to safeguard expression in a polarized environment.

27 snips
Nov 6, 2024 • 54min
The Streisand Effect with Mike Masnick
Mike Masnick, CEO of Techdirt and the mind behind the 'Streisand Effect,' shares fascinating insights on information control in the digital age. He discusses the irony of attempts to suppress knowledge leading to greater public interest. The conversation transitions into the evolution of blogging and the legal hurdles faced in tech. Masnick also addresses the tension between free speech and content moderation, and envisions a decentralized future with initiatives like Bluesky, emphasizing user empowerment and community over corporate profit.

27 snips
Nov 21, 2023 • 59min
Decentralizing Innovation, with Techdirt's Mike Masnick
Techdirt's Mike Masnick discusses the history of walled gardens, the potential of decentralized social media, and the importance of open platforms for innovation. They explore platforms like Mastodon and Blue Sky, the challenges and benefits of decentralization, and the power of custom feeds. They also highlight the significance of content endorsement and the symbiotic relationship between AI and humans in navigating social media.

13 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 1h 15min
Techdirt’s Mike Masnick on Growing Bluesky, Clueless Regulators & the Case for Optimism
Mike Masnick, a pioneering tech journalist and founder of Techdirt, dives into the future of decentralized social media and his vision from 'Protocols, Not Platforms.' He discusses Bluesky’s innovative AT Protocol, emphasizing user control and the challenges of heavy regulations like age verification. Masnick shares insights on aligning economic incentives with user freedom and reflects on how AI could enhance decentralized systems. With a mix of history and optimism, he paints a vibrant picture of a more user-empowered internet.

8 snips
May 28, 2025 • 1h 7min
Mike Masnick
Kevin D. Williamson chats with Mike Masnick, founder and editor of Techdirt, who specializes in technology and civil liberties. They tackle the complexities of content moderation, weighing safety against freedom in diverse online spaces. Mike reflects on the internet's evolution from decentralized beginnings to its current state, emphasizing responsible technology use. They also highlight the Streisand Effect, showing how censorship attempts can backfire dramatically, and discuss using AI to boost writing productivity, showcasing its potential in creative workflows.

6 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 1h 9min
The Hardest Thing To Do Is Nothing
Mike Masnick, founder of TechDirt and Section 230 expert, dives deep into the complexities of online speech and platform regulation. He shares insights on the significance of Section 230, dissecting its role in balancing free speech with content moderation. Masnick humorously addresses bipartisan misconceptions about the law and explores its implications for digital rights. Additionally, the conversation touches on the evolving landscape of social media politics and the challenges posed by current legislative efforts, making for a thought-provoking discussion.

Dec 3, 2024 • 1h 5min
Pete Hegseth’s Drinking Could Cause a Rift With Teetotaler Trump
Join Jared Yates Sexton, a journalist and author discussing the political climate, and Mike Masnick, founder of Techdirt, as they dive into the chaos surrounding Trump's potential return. They highlight how personal habits like drinking influence political relationships and reflect on Biden's controversial pardons. The duo critiques Trump's FCC nominee, Brendan Carr, and examines the hypocrisy of free speech debates amidst rising misinformation. Get ready for a blend of sharp analysis and humor on today's political landscape!

Apr 26, 2024 • 58min
Trump’s Campaign Shifts Strategy for Its Part-Time Candidate
Political reporter Jake Lahut discusses Republicans' struggle to connect with voters during Trump's trial while Techdirt founder Mike Masnick talks about the law potentially banning TikTok in the U.S. The podcast also covers Supreme Court cases, reproductive rights, and the controversial decision to allow guns in Tennessee schools.


