Decoder with Nilay Patel

Rick Smith, CEO of Axon and author of "The End of Killing," discusses transforming law enforcement with non-lethal technologies like tasers. He explores the ethical implications of body cameras and facial recognition, highlighting the balance between accountability and privacy. Delving into police training, Rick unveils innovations such as virtual reality to enhance empathy among officers. The conversation provokes thought on the future of policing tech and tackling gun violence, pushing for responsible design to protect privacy rights.

Barry Friedman, Director of The Policing Project at NYU School of Law, dives deep into the ethics of technology in law enforcement. He discusses the critical need for accountability amid the rise of AI and facial recognition. Friedman emphasizes community involvement in policing and the shortcomings of current data practices. He highlights the urgent need for regulation to balance law enforcement effectiveness and individual privacy rights, particularly with increasingly invasive surveillance technologies.

Sarah Hallberg, Medical Director at Virta Health, Eric Christopher, CEO of Zylo, and Robin Fleming, CEO of Anvl, delve into the entrepreneurial spirit of Indiana. They discuss the unique challenges and opportunities in a non-traditional tech hub, highlighting innovations in healthcare, SaaS, and worker safety. The trio emphasizes the importance of local success stories and the need for strategic investments to attract venture capital. They also explore how mobile technology can radically transform workplace safety and healthcare, showcasing the Midwest's untapped potential.

Jana Messerschmidt, a partner at Lightspeed Venture Partners and co-founder of #ANGELS, shares her journey from tech roles at Netflix and Twitter to becoming a venture capitalist. She discusses the transformative early days of streaming and how Netflix strategically navigated the market. Messerschmidt emphasizes the importance of diversity in venture capital, detailing how #ANGELS supports not just women but all founders. The conversation also highlights the equity gap for women in tech and the urgent need for change in the industry.

Susan Rice, the former U.S. ambassador to the UN and National Security Advisor under Obama, dives into her new book, Tough Love. She critiques Trump’s 'America first' approach, emphasizing the pitfalls of isolationism. Rice discusses how social media has been weaponized to sow division, the regression of international agreements, and the urgent need for tech regulation. With insights from her personal journey, she reflects on challenges facing Africa and the evolving role of technology in diplomacy. Join her as she fights for the principles she believes in.

Robert Jackson, a former SEC commissioner, discusses critical issues surrounding corporate governance and dual-class stock systems. He sheds light on how companies like WeWork and Facebook maintain founder control, which can stifle accountability. Jackson reveals his opposition to rule changes that limit shareholder activism and critiques the SEC's handling of Elon Musk's Tesla settlement. The conversation emphasizes the necessity for reforms to promote investor rights and ensure better governance in the tech industry.

Alexis Ohanian, co-founder of Reddit and managing partner at Initialized Capital, passionately advocates for paid parental leave, sharing how his wife Serena Williams' experience with medical complications sparked this mission. He critiques 'hustle porn,' underscoring the need for work-life balance in tech. Ohanian discusses the decline of San Francisco's startup allure and contemplates the ethical responsibilities of tech companies around misinformation and deepfakes. He also highlights innovations in family tech, aimed at enriching the parenting experience.

Ted Baxter, a health advocate and author of "Relentless," shares his transformative journey after surviving a massive stroke at just 41. He discusses the initial misdiagnoses and the emotional complexities of recovery, highlighting resilience and informed decision-making. Baxter explains how the experience reshaped his perspective on success and the importance of support systems. He offers valuable advice for others facing similar health challenges, emphasizing the power of perseverance and the incredible capacity for personal growth after adversity.

Brian Chesky, CEO and co-founder of Airbnb, shares insights on the evolution of his company amid challenges and crises. He discusses the tragic shooting incident at an Airbnb and the company’s new safety initiatives. Chesky emphasizes the need for accountability in Silicon Valley and recounts his past missteps as a leader. He highlights the unique experiences of hosts, including stays with a parrot and a ‘friendly ghost’. Their conversation touches on the ethical responsibilities of tech leaders and the human impact of their platforms.

Join MSNBC anchor Stephanie Ruhle, a former investment banker turned media powerhouse, as she dives deep into the issues we often overlook. Ruhle candidly discusses the overlooked Trump voters and urges Wall Street to confront its fears regarding Elizabeth Warren. She reflects on her unusual career path, critiques media narratives on economic recovery, and tackles the implications of social media. Plus, Ruhle highlights the vital need for honest discussions about gender dynamics and calls for accountability from tech giants. A refreshing take on today's pressing issues!