When Google bought YouTube, it went from being a company that helps users search the Internet, to a company that shapes the Internet itself. With 2 billion users, YouTube generates its own gravitational pull on society and culture worldwide. And as an open platform that allows anyone to upload videos, it's a force that even Google can't quite control. Hosts: Shirin Ghaffary (@shiringhaffary) and Alex Kantrowitz (@kantrowitz) Guest co-host: Peter Kafka (@peterkafka) Enjoyed this episode? Rate us ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐and leave a review on Apple Podcasts. Want to get in touch? Tweet @recode. Subscribe for free. Be the first to hear next week's episode by subscribing in your favorite podcast app. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Peter Kafka, a Senior correspondent at Recode and host of Recode Media, dives into the turbulent landscape of the tech industry. He discusses recent job cuts, including Meta's massive layoffs, reflecting a stark shift from growth to austerity. Kafka highlights Wall Street's waning optimism and the significant cultural reset within major tech firms. The conversation delves into challenges like privacy concerns, competition for younger audiences, and how companies are navigating economic uncertainty amidst declining stock and profits.

Peter Kafka shares insights on media industry trends, challenges in local news, impact of Netflix and YouTube. Discussion on transitioning to subscription models, AI's influence on media, and uncertainty of VR adoption. Analyzing media coverage, audience engagement, and the evolution of podcasting.

Peter Kafka and Lucas Shaw review the year in media, covering topics such as the impact of the strike, media consolidation, Amazon and Apple acquiring sports broadcasting rights, the decline of movie-going, Hollywood's response to TikTok, and their favorite media consumed this year.

Peter Kafka, Vox senior correspondent and 'Recode Media' host, joins Matt to discuss the growing power of tech companies in Hollywood, including Apple and Amazon's place in the entertainment industry. They also explore the rise of advertising in streaming, YouTube's and TikTok's influence, big tech's foray into the media ecosystem, Elon Musk's impact on social media, and upcoming movies. Matt concludes the podcast with box office predictions for 'Wish' and 'Napoleon.'