Ryan Mac

In a fascinating discussion, Ryan Mac and Kate Conger, both esteemed technology reporters at The New York Times and co-authors of 'Character Limit,' dive into Elon Musk's chaotic takeover of Twitter. They explore the outrageous tactics behind corporate acquisitions and the whirlwind of their book's creation. The duo unpacks Musk's unpredictable persona and the intricate legal battles he faces. They also reflect on the surge in Dogecoin interest, the impact of bots on social media, and the vital importance of credible journalism in the current landscape.

In this fascinating discussion, Ryan Mac, a New York Times reporter with over a decade of experience covering Ross Ulbricht and the Silk Road saga, explores Ulbricht's extraordinary journey from prison to MAGA influencer. They delve into the infamous Silk Road's operation, the role of Bitcoin, and the supportive network that emerged around Ross, including his mother’s relentless advocacy. Mac reveals Ulbricht’s newfound political ambitions and his potential as a crypto-libertarian hero while assessing the complex legacy of illegal tech trade.

Ryan Mac and Kate Conger, New York Times journalists and co-authors of 'Character Limit,' delve into Elon Musk's influence over both Twitter and U.S. governance. They analyze Musk's dubious management tactics, drawing unsettling parallels between his Twitter takeover and broader governmental practices. The discussion covers the challenges of misinformation, the evolving power dynamics in tech and politics, and the potential dangers of oversimplifying complex systems using Musk's approach. Their insights probe the implications of AI in governance and the shifting alignments of Silicon Valley with political power.