Decoder with Nilay Patel

Conal Byrne, CEO of iHeartMedia’s digital audio group, leads the charge in the evolving podcast landscape. He discusses his unconventional strategies that prioritize audience reach over subscriptions, leveraging traditional radio for podcast promotion. Conal also highlights innovative advertising techniques and collaborations with big-name creators like Will Ferrell and Shonda Rhimes. He dives into the unique challenges of ownership and monetization in a decentralized medium, all while fostering a supportive space for diverse creators.

Mitchell Baker, Chairwoman of the Mozilla Foundation and CEO of the Mozilla Corporation, dives into Mozilla's duality as both a nonprofit and a for-profit entity, navigating the competitive browser landscape. She discusses the balance between user privacy and the need for revenue, especially in light of partnerships like Google's. The conversation reveals the struggles of alternative browsers in gaining traction against giants like Chrome and Edge, and highlights Mozilla's vision for decentralized technologies and enhancing user choice moving forward.

Satya Nadella, CEO of Microsoft and a leader in cloud computing and AI, discusses the bold integration of OpenAI technology into Bing and Edge. He outlines how this partnership could revolutionize search by shifting from traditional methods to more intuitive 'answer engines.' Nadella also delves into the ethical implications of AI-generated content and its potential impact on creativity and knowledge work. With these innovations, Microsoft aims to challenge Google’s dominance and redefine productivity in the search landscape.

Felix Gillette, a Bloomberg News editor and co-author of 'It's Not TV,' joins John Koblin, a New York Times reporter and fellow co-author, to dive into HBO's legacy. They discuss how HBO’s strong creative relationships propelled projects like 'The White Lotus' during the pandemic. The duo reveals HBO's instinct-driven approach to programming amidst chaotic corporate changes. They also explore the network's evolution from a local service to a cultural icon, navigating challenges while maintaining its unique voice. Tune in for a fascinating look behind the scenes!

Chris Miller, an Associate Professor at Tufts University and author of "Chip War," dives into the intricate world of chip manufacturing, highlighting the geopolitical chess game surrounding semiconductors. He explains how ASML, a Dutch company, is pivotal for global chip production, influencing both the U.S. and China. The conversation touches on high-stakes foreign policy, the evolution of lithography technology, and the competitive landscape where TSMC and Intel vie for dominance. Miller also draws parallels between Taiwan and Ukraine, revealing the broader implications of global supply chains.

Charlie Harding, co-host of Switched on Pop and music industry expert, delves into the future of music through the lens of Taylor Swift. He argues that the upcoming Eras Tour signifies an end to the era of cheap streaming services, highlighting the industry's ongoing struggle to sustain artists beyond superstars. The conversation covers how tech changes influence music consumption, the shifting revenue models, and the impact of platforms like TikTok on artist discovery. Can the music industry evolve to support all its artists while navigating these disruptions?

Cory Doctorow, a prolific author and tech advisor, joins Rebecca Giblin, a law professor and publishing house founder, for an engaging discussion on issues facing artists in today's digital landscape. They explore the barriers created by big tech companies and how these impact fair compensation for creators. The conversation covers the struggles of independent authors, the challenges of digital rights management, and the monopolistic practices in the music industry. Together, they propose actionable solutions for a more equitable creative economy.

In this discussion, Tomer Cohen, Chief Product Officer at LinkedIn, dives into the unique dynamics of managing large teams and the clarity needed in decision-making. He shares his provocative mantra, "We might be wrong, but we’re not confused," emphasizing the importance of recognizing mistakes. Tomer explains LinkedIn's distinct metrics, focusing on job success rather than typical engagement. The conversation also touches on how AI is reshaping professional networking and the platform's role in creating economic opportunities through verified skills.

In a thought-provoking conversation, Matt Mullenweg, CEO of Automattic and the force behind Tumblr, discusses the intricate challenges of moderating social networks. He highlights the fine line between free speech and safety, particularly after acquiring Tumblr from Verizon. Alex Heath joins the dialogue, shedding light on Twitter's chaotic shifts under Elon Musk. The duo explores the intertwined nature of user engagement, content policies, and the competitive landscape shaping social media today. Expect insights into the future of online communities!

Julia Alexander, Director of Strategy at Parrot Analytics and former Verge reporter, dives into the drama of Disney's CEO shuffle. She discusses the contrasting leadership styles of Bob Iger and Bob Chapek, and how their approaches shape the future of Disney amidst a streaming war. There's insight into the expected merger of Hulu with Disney+, and the impact of distribution on creative content. With her expertise, Julia highlights the challenges and strategies needed to thrive in the ever-evolving media landscape.