Wendy Liu

In this engaging discussion, Catherine Gudis, a history professor and author, explores the rich cultural history of billboards, while Wendy Liu, a critical tech writer, critiques their impact on community identity. Matt Stevens, a culture critic, sheds light on how billboards shape the entertainment landscape in Southern California. The trio dives into nostalgic memories of hand-painted signs, the tension between traditional and digital advertising, and how these visual markers reflect California's evolving values. They invite listeners to share their own billboard stories, highlighting their quirky charm.

Wendy Liu, a former Silicon Valley insider and author of 'Abolish Silicon Valley,' joins Carl Miller, research director at Demos, to challenge the tech industry's harmful economic logic. They explore radical ideas for restructuring Silicon Valley to prioritize societal good over profit. The conversation dives into the absurd financial culture of startup valuations, the need for ethical practices, and the representation of women in tech. Liu emphasizes creating a more equitable tech landscape through democratic control and collective action.