Decoder with Nilay Patel

Pat Gelsinger, the CEO of Intel, returns to discuss his ambitious plans to rejuvenate the tech giant. He shares insights on restructuring Intel's engineering culture and shifting towards a foundry model to compete with TSMC. Gelsinger emphasizes the importance of risk management and collaboration in reclaiming Intel’s legacy. He also delves into Intel's strategic initiatives for domestic manufacturing and the implications of the CHIPS Act. The conversation highlights Intel's latest innovations in CPUs and GPUs and the competitive landscape against rivals like NVIDIA and AMD.

Rene Haas, CEO of Arm, a powerhouse in chip design without chip manufacturing, shares insights from the forefront of modern tech. He discusses Arm's pivotal licensing model and its impact on devices ranging from smartphones to cars. Rene delves into the delicate balance of intuition and data in decision-making, the ongoing chip shortage, and the future of automotive tech. He also highlights Arm's significant role in the transition to Apple’s ARM-based chips and the implications of the CHIPS Act for the semiconductor industry.

Ryan Petersen, Founder and former CEO of Flexport, discusses how software can simplify global supply chains. He highlights the challenges of modernizing freight forwarding and integrating shipping vendor systems. Petersen shares insights on navigating logistical hurdles, particularly at the Port of Long Beach, revealing innovative solutions to improve container management. He also touches on recent leadership transitions at Flexport and the impact of the Biden infrastructure package on growth, emphasizing the need for collaboration in logistics to overcome bottlenecks.

Mark Bergen, a Bloomberg reporter and author of "Like, Comment, Subscribe," dives deep into the inner workings of YouTube. He dissects the platform's evolution amidst competitive pressures from TikTok and the complexities of its corporate culture. Bergen discusses YouTube's monetization strategies, the impact of its ever-changing algorithm on creators, and the regulatory challenges it faces. His insights reveal how decisions at YouTube affect both creators and the broader digital landscape, shedding light on what you don't see behind the screen.

Tony Fadell, known for his pivotal role in creating the iPod and iPhone, shares his insights on navigating innovation in big organizations. He discusses the cultural clashes faced at Nest after its acquisition by Google, emphasizing the challenges that hinder creativity. The conversation dives into the importance of mentorship and ethical leadership, contrasting emotional with data-driven decision-making. Fadell critiques the metaverse and advocates for real-world impact, while reflecting on the structural changes and communication styles essential for growing companies.

Tom Alison, the Head of Facebook at Meta, brings over a decade of expertise in algorithm development to the table. He discusses Facebook's fierce competition with TikTok for Gen Z's attention, revealing strategic shifts toward content discovery. Alison sheds light on the evolving news feed, as the platform aims to engage younger audiences with a revamped algorithm. With insights from a seasoned executive, the conversation also covers the challenges of maintaining meaningful connections while adapting to the fast-paced social media landscape.

Neal Arthur, CEO of Wieden+Kennedy, one of the most revered independent ad agencies, dives into the intricacies of modern advertising. They explore the essential role of ads in business success and how platforms like TikTok and YouTube are reshaping the landscape. Neal discusses the value of maintaining independence in a consolidating industry, the shift towards authentic engagement, and the humor that often accompanies creative campaigns. Plus, he shares insights on navigating the challenges posed by geopolitical tensions affecting American brands.

Katie Welch, Chief Marketing Officer of Rare Beauty and a beauty industry pro, shares insights into the innovative marketing strategies that make the brand thrive. She discusses how Rare Beauty relies on social media rather than traditional advertising, fostering an engaged community around Selena Gomez. Katie explores the evolving landscape of influencer marketing, the importance of authenticity, and the unique challenges of being a CMO in celebrity-driven business. Tune in for a lively look at how they balance creativity, sales strategy, and consumer engagement!

Tareq Amin, CEO of Rakuten Mobile and a pioneer in Open RAN technology, shares his vision of revolutionizing mobile networks. He discusses the groundbreaking launch of Rakuten's cloud-native network in Japan and the emerging Open RAN landscape. Tareq reveals how this innovative approach can cut costs and enhance connectivity, citing examples from Japan and India. He also addresses the challenges of transitioning to O-RAN, including hardware sourcing and the importance of fostering competition. Prepare for a fascinating insight into the future of mobile broadband!

Hank Green, CEO of Complexly and co-creator of Vlogbrothers, dives deep into the contrasting monetization models of YouTube and TikTok. He highlights YouTube's creator-friendly revenue share versus TikTok's fixed creator fund, stressing how it affects content creators' livelihoods. The discussion also touches on the complexities of producing educational media, the challenges of selling companies like VidCon, and the emotional balance creators face in a rapidly changing online landscape. It's a candid look at the intersection of creativity, business, and platform dynamics.