Decoder with Nilay Patel

Chris Best, Co-founder and CEO of Substack, discusses the recent launch of Substack Notes, drawing comparisons to Twitter amidst competitive tensions. He shares insights about the platform's shift from enterprise software to consumer-focused products. Best reflects on the challenges of content moderation, emphasizing a unique subscription model that prioritizes community. Delving into algorithms, he contrasts Substack’s user-centric approach with traditional ad-driven platforms, highlighting the importance of trust and financial transparency in nurturing writers and their audiences.

Henrique Dubugras, the 27-year-old co-founder and CEO of Brex, shares his front-row seat experience during the collapse of Silicon Valley Bank. He discusses Brex's rapid transformation from a corporate card provider to a vital financial services platform. Dubugras reflects on the panic-driven nature of the crisis, the unique opportunities it presented for neobanks, and how digital banking reshaped customer behavior. His insights reveal the shifting landscape of the startup ecosystem and the innovative future of fintech.

Chris Cocks, CEO of Hasbro, dives into the intricate world of toys and games. He discusses the shifting landscape of adult consumers and how it's reshaping Hasbro's strategies. Cocks shares insights on navigating crises, like fan backlash over game licenses and the balance between monetization and community sentiment. He emphasizes the evolution of iconic brands like Magic: The Gathering and Dungeons & Dragons, while also exploring new product innovations aimed at passionate fandoms. A lifelong gamer, he illustrates the blend of creativity and data-driven strategy in the toy industry.

Eugen Rochko, Founder and CEO of Mastodon, explores the platform's unique position as a decentralized alternative to Twitter. He shares insights on user empowerment through server selection and the challenges of scaling such an open-source network. The conversation dives into the balance of governance, the realities of funding, and the complexities of community engagement. Rochko discusses the risks of venture capital and the necessity of transparent moderation policies, while hinting at upcoming features that could enhance user experience.

Meredith Kopit Levien, CEO of The New York Times, leads the conversation on the evolution of this iconic institution, which has shifted to a subscription model, resembling services like Netflix. She discusses the success of NYT Cooking and Games, and the strategic acquisition of Wordle. The dialogue explores reaching diverse audiences in a polarized climate, the importance of direct relationships with readers, and the challenges of innovation in journalism and technology. Kopit Levien emphasizes maintaining journalistic integrity while fostering a thriving digital landscape.

Dean Budnick, co-author of "Ticketmaster: The Rise of the Concert Industry and How the Public Got Scalped," discusses the monopolistic grip Ticketmaster has on live events. They dive into the chaos Taylor Swift fans faced during the Eras Tour ticket sales, sparked by a lack of competition. Budnick explains how 1980s policy changes fueled Ticketmaster's dominance and the shift in antitrust law that benefitted them. The recent Congressional hearings highlight the urgent calls for reform to protect consumers against such monopolies.

James Daunt, CEO of Barnes & Noble and Waterstones, discusses his innovative approach to revitalizing bookstores in the shadow of Amazon. Daunt reveals how decentralizing operations gives local stores a unique identity and empowers booksellers. He touches on challenging issues like book bans and the cultural significance of reading. The conversation also explores shifting gender dynamics within the industry and the strategic use of social media for authentic community engagement, highlighting the bookstore’s comeback amid evolving retail challenges.

Gustav Söderström, Spotify's co-president and chief product and technology officer, shares insights into the platform's significant redesign. He discusses the shift towards a TikTok-like interface aimed at enhancing content discovery. Alex Heath, a tech journalist at The Verge, engages Söderström about the role of AI in improving user recommendations, the balance between user experience and business sustainability, and the challenges of adapting to artist needs in the evolving digital landscape. They also explore Spotify's innovative goals for content engagement.

In this engaging discussion, Steve Bandrowczak, CEO of Xerox, shares insights on transforming the iconic company from a legacy printer maker to a leader in IT services. He reveals innovative strategies like using augmented reality for printer repairs and the ambitious Project Own It aimed at simplifying operations. The conversation touches on maintaining customer connections while adapting to digital trends, the future of their renowned PARC research center, and how to capture Gen Z's interest in the printing world. A forward-thinking glimpse into Xerox's next 100 years!

Pali Bhat, Reddit's first chief product officer and former Google executive, discusses his vision for transforming Reddit's user experience. He shares insights on the platform's new TikTok-style video feed and how the design aims to cater to both newbies and long-time users. The conversation delves into challenges surrounding content moderation, the significance of community engagement, and the strategic separation of text and video feeds. Bhat emphasizes the role of user feedback in shaping Reddit’s evolution as a search alternative and its cautious approach to AI integration.