Decoder with Nilay Patel

Kevin Roose, a New York Times tech columnist and author of "Futureproof: Nine Rules for Humans in the Age of Automation," dives into the rising influence of robotic process automation (RPA) on the workforce. He explores how RPA transforms professions like accounting and journalism, balancing the efficiency it brings with the risk to job security. Roose also emphasizes the need for human skills, emotional intelligence, and meaningful connections amidst increasing automation, while offering strategies for individuals to thrive in this evolving landscape.

Scott Farquhar, co-founder and co-CEO of Atlassian, dives into the friction between Australia and tech giants like Facebook over the Media Bargaining Code. He highlights how this regulation shapes global tech while underscoring the crucial role of public policy in running a tech company today. The discussion expands on the dangers of a splintered internet and the need for better communication between lawmakers and tech firms. Farquhar also reflects on how evolving work dynamics and regulatory challenges are reshaping the tech landscape.

Kayvon Beykpour, the former Head of Consumer Product at Twitter, shares insights into his role in steering product strategy. He discusses Twitter's innovative features like Super Follows and Spaces designed to enhance user engagement. Beykpour also tackles the challenges of content moderation, especially in real-time discussions. The conversation explores Twitter's competitive landscape and its strategies to maintain relevance while boosting revenue. Finally, he touches on community-driven initiatives like Birdwatch that aim to combat misinformation.

Adrienne Jeffries, Billy Disney, and Regina DeLay, co-hosts of the Under Understood podcast, tackle the bizarre case of an 88-year-old charged for selling jailbroken Fire TV sticks at a Florida flea market. They delve into the comedic elements of a sheriff's lighthearted press conference, the convoluted legality of jailbroken devices, and the implications of copyright law today. The trio also critiques the sheriff's motives and highlights how his actions reflect broader socio-economic concerns, blending humor and insight on tech's intersection with law.

Austin Russell, founder and CEO of Luminar, is revolutionizing the self-driving car industry with his groundbreaking LiDAR technology. He shares insights on why LiDAR is crucial for the future of autonomy and discusses the challenges he faces in making it scalable and affordable. Austin challenges conventional methodologies in automotive design, predicting a world without steering wheels by 2030. He emphasizes the importance of safety and regulatory acceptance while navigating his journey as a young billionaire in the tech landscape.

Nicole LaPointe Jameson, CEO of Evil Geniuses, shares insights from her unique journey in esports, emphasizing innovative revenue models and strategic partnerships. She discusses how the industry is evolving, particularly the intricate dynamics between teams and game publishers. Jameson highlights the role of data-driven decision-making and the importance of diversity in team building. She also tackles challenges within the esports ecosystem, including audience engagement and the need for inclusivity, showcasing how these factors are shaping the future of gaming.

In this engaging discussion, CNBC anchor Jon Fortt, known for his sharp insights on business and technology, delves into the GameStop stock phenomenon sparked by retail investors and the impact of Robinhood on market accessibility. He shares his thoughts on the ethics of free trading and its implications for financial democratization. Additionally, Fortt explores his course, 'The Black Experience in America,' emphasizing the importance of education in addressing racial issues and promoting economic participation for future generations.

In this episode, Charlton McIlwain, a Professor at NYU and author of Black Software, dives into the vital role technology plays in racial justice. He discusses the contributions of Black communities to tech and the historical roots of surveillance technologies used in policing. McIlwain emphasizes the need for equity in digital spaces and the importance of recognizing Black culture in online activism. Additionally, he explores the creator economy's dynamics and how technology can empower marginalized communities to innovate and challenge systemic issues.

Arlan Hamilton, the founder of Backstage Capital, is on a mission to uplift underrepresented founders in the venture capital space. She delves into the systemic barriers in tech funding and the shift towards diversity. Arlan shares her groundbreaking approach to democratizing investments, making opportunities accessible to everyone, not just the elite. The conversation also touches on the importance of building trust and relationships with entrepreneurs and highlights how diverse voices are reshaping the innovation landscape.

Joseph Menn, a renowned cybersecurity reporter for Reuters and author of 'Cult of the Dead Cow,' dives deep into the SolarWinds hack, revealing how Russian hackers exploited supply chain vulnerabilities to breach major U.S. entities. The discussion touches on the failures of security agencies to detect the breach and the implications for national security. Menn emphasizes the need for better collaboration between the government and private sectors while exploring the evolution of hackers and the challenges of securing national elections amid rising cyber threats.