

People vs Algorithms
Troy Young, Brian Morrissey, Alex Schleifer
Uncovering patterns of change in media, culture, and technology, each week media veterans Brian Morrissey, Alex Schleifer and Troy Young break down stuff that matters.
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https://www.therebooting.com/ www.peoplevsalgorithms.com
Get our newsletters:
https://www.peoplevsalgorithms.com/
https://www.therebooting.com/ www.peoplevsalgorithms.com
Episodes
Mentioned books

8 snips
May 16, 2025 • 1h 7min
Brittle Apple
The discussion kicks off with wild ideas about unconventional business ventures related to death, sprinkled with absurd humor. Eurovision takes center stage, filled with personal anecdotes and festive cultural charm. Tune in as HBO Max's tumultuous rebranding journey unfolds against a backdrop of evolving media challenges. Airbnb's shift to a comprehensive service platform is examined, while Apple faces stagnation in hardware amidst its services growth. The dialogue also navigates the playful side of car selling and touches on innovative community engagement ideas.

52 snips
May 9, 2025 • 1h 9min
The AI Overhang
The hosts engage in lively discussions about the latest AI search innovations and the chasm between AI hype and reality. They dissect the digital publishing landscape, particularly how companies are responding to changing consumer behaviors. Legal battles in Google's ad tech reveal the complexities of AI integration, while Valnet’s surprising pivot from adult to children's content raises eyebrows. They also touch on the evolving world of digital advertising, highlighting the ethical challenges posed by AI-driven targeting and shifting media dynamics.

May 2, 2025 • 1h 24min
Group Chat
* Watch us on YouTube* Troy Young's People vs Algorithms newsletter* Brian Morrissey's The Rebooting newsletter* Alex Schleifer's Human Computer* Follow Alex, Brian and Troy on TwitterChapters:* 00:00 Open* 00:22 Intro* 00:45 Welcome* 01:20 Marketing Advertising Media Events* 07:01 The Shoes That Have Not Dropped* 20:43 Group Chats* 31:38 Zuck Derangement Syndrome* 54:54 Epic Beats Apple* 59:14 Trump Cabinet Influencers* 01:06:32 Good Product* 01:13:29 Overtime With AB This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.peoplevsalgorithms.com

Apr 25, 2025 • 1h 11min
Tech Bros With Mics
From TBPN to Turpentine, it’s not journalism—it just looks like it. They also explore the “Chaos Economy” through Foxconn’s EV pivot and unpack why analogies beat logic in shaping how we process tech shifts. Plus, Pete Buttigieg’s appearance on Flagrant shows that even politics is adapting to the influencer era.* Watch us on YouTube* Troy Young's People vs Algorithms newsletter* Brian Morrissey's The Rebooting newsletter* Alex Schleifer's Human Computer* Follow Alex, Brian and Troy on TwitterChapters:* 00:00 Open * 00:55 Welcome * 01:26 Ode to Zins * 04:15 Tech's Alternative Media Playbook * 24:53 Chaos Economy * 40:00 Analogy Machines vs Rational Animals * 57:27 Pete Buttigieg and the Manosphere Media Moment * 01:08:11 Good Product * 01:10:17 Outro This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.peoplevsalgorithms.com

17 snips
Apr 18, 2025 • 1h 10min
Hyperpunditry
This week we dig into the spread of hyperpunditry and why the Information Space rewards those who confidently switch lanes with abandon. Plus: AI’s bottoms-up adoption curve, Anonymous Banker on golf media’s strength and the crazy life of sea turtles.Watch us on YouTubeTroy Young's People vs Algorithms newsletterBrian Morrissey's The Rebooting newsletterAlex Schleifer's Human ComputerFollow Alex, Brian and Troy on Twitter This is a public episode. If you would like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit www.peoplevsalgorithms.com

18 snips
Apr 11, 2025 • 1h 15min
Loro Piana Populism
Explore the shifting tides of American soft power amid global tensions and the chaotic interplay between media influence and economic policy. Discover how advertising cuts impact retail and the evolving landscape of consumer privacy with GDPR discussions. Delve into the automotive industry's struggles against China and the tech sector's adaptations to geopolitical pressures. Plus, hear about the rise of AI in workplaces and its effects on creativity, all while navigating the complexities of modern dining and digital discourse.

25 snips
Apr 4, 2025 • 1h 18min
Media, narratives, markets with Nick Denton
Nick Denton, founder of Gawker Media, delves into the powerful interplay of narratives and memes in shaping today's media landscape. He discusses the evolution of digital media and how traditional journalism struggles with monetization and audience engagement. Denton also explores the innovative Kinja platform aimed at enhancing online conversations and critiques how memes influence public narratives, especially in high-stakes markets like Tesla. With a humorous take on generational differences in tech, he emphasizes the urgent need for media to adapt to new realities.

16 snips
Mar 28, 2025 • 58min
The Taste Premium
Ana Andjelic, a sociologist and brand strategist, joins the discussion alongside the mysterious Anonymous Banker. They delve into the evolution of taste, debating European versus American preferences and the shift from gatekeepers in media to democratized tastemaking. The conversation touches on how intentionality shapes taste beyond monetary factors and the profound influence of culture on design and fashion. Also explored is the concept of a 'taste premium' in media, revealing how genuine aesthetic values can drive brand success.

22 snips
Mar 21, 2025 • 1h 13min
The Abundance Agenda
In this fascinating discussion, Anonymous Banker, a financial expert specializing in media investment, dives into strategies for overcoming the media industry's scarcity mindset. They explore insights from 'The Abundance Agenda' and why second-tier comedians could be the next big media opportunity. The conversation touches on the rise of AI-driven advertising, the challenges facing traditional media, and innovation within the magazine sector. Get ready for some valuable insights on navigating the changing landscape of media and investment!

7 snips
Mar 14, 2025 • 1h 3min
Oral Exams
In a rapidly changing digital landscape, the concept of vibe coding is reshaping creativity. Oral exams are put under the microscope, revealing a cultural shift towards valuing public speaking over traditional tests. A discussion on political discourse highlights the need for assertive communication in today’s climate. Executives are encouraged to embrace authenticity in their messaging, contrasting scripted styles with genuine engagement. The impact of AI on creative processes and media dynamics is also explored, emphasizing the unique magic of live experiences.