Vanessa Pappas

Vanessa Pappas, TikTok's COO and former YouTube executive, dives into the controversial dynamics surrounding the app. She tackles the crucial questions about data security and fears of Chinese government access. The conversation also highlights TikTok's rapid rise in popularity despite national security concerns. Pappas discusses the platform’s commitment to user safety and its strategies to counter misinformation, all while balancing the fun aspects that keep users engaged. It's a fascinating exploration of the tension between entertainment and geopolitical anxieties.

In this engaging discussion, Vanessa Pappas, General Manager of TikTok North America, shares insights on the platform's rapid growth amid political scrutiny and the challenges of misinformation. Emily Bell, Director of the Tow Center for Digital Journalism at Columbia University, dives into the shifting media landscape, stressing the importance of a reliable information ecosystem. Together, they tackle TikTok's unique community dynamics and the implications of corporate media acquisitions, all while navigating the chaotic intersection of technology and journalism.