Decoder with Nilay Patel

Kirsten Green, founding partner of Forerunner Ventures, shares her insights on investing in innovative consumer brands like Dollar Shave Club and Glossier. She discusses the cultural upheaval at luggage startup Away and the leadership challenges it faced. Green emphasizes the transformative impact of mobile and social media on consumer behavior, and how understanding these trends is crucial for retail success. Additionally, she explores the advantages of being a female venture capitalist and the necessary changes in the industry for better decision-making.

Ben Silbermann, CEO of Pinterest, dives into the unique strategies the platform employs to enhance user happiness and foster community. He discusses the balance between inspiration and safety in tech, addressing content moderation challenges while promoting mental wellness. Silbermann introduces the Verified Merchant Program to bolster online shopping trust and highlights how augmented reality is reshaping retail experiences. The conversation also explores effective storytelling in advertising amidst stiff competition from e-commerce giants.

Jeanette Winterson, a celebrated author known for her innovative works like "Oranges Are Not the Only Fruit," shares her insights. She discusses her latest novel, "Frankissstein: A Love Story," which weaves together themes of technology, identity, and the legacy of Mary Shelley. Winterson poses thought-provoking questions about the ethics of artificial life and the emotional connections people form with machines. The conversation also touches on the intersection of gender fluidity and technology, urging us to consider tech's role in shaping humanity's future.

Jason DeParle, a New York Times reporter and author, dives into the complexities of immigration and poverty. He shares insights from his decade-spanning journey, including his time in a Philippine shantytown. DeParle highlights the resilience of immigrants like Rosalie, who overcame hardships to thrive in the U.S. He discusses the implications of anti-immigrant sentiments on the economy and innovation, emphasizing the historical ties between immigration and civil rights. The conversation critiques policies that exacerbate inequality, especially child poverty.

Megan Rapinoe, co-captain of the US Women's National Soccer Team and co-founder of The Rapinoe Brand, shares her insights on pay equity and social justice. She reflects on the team's journey since their joyful post-World Cup tour and humorously discusses why she's opting out of a political career. The conversation delves into her experience with online scrutiny and highlights the importance of mutual support among women in the fight for social change. Rapinoe’s passion and candidness make for a compelling dialogue on advocacy in sports.

David Epstein, journalist and bestselling author of 'Range: Why Generalists Triumph in a Specialized World,' discusses the unexpected advantages of being a generalist in today's world. He challenges the 10,000-hour rule, arguing that diverse experiences often lead to greater success. Epstein highlights how specialized training can limit career longevity and creativity. He shares insights on fostering adaptability and embracing a more flexible mindset, essential for navigating modern professions. Discover why dabbling could be your new secret weapon!

In a candid discussion, Louie Swisher, a social media-savvy teen, along with his uncle Jeff Swisher, an anesthesiology expert, and their insightful grandmother Lucretia Carney, explore their family's tech habits. They delve into the refusal to use TikTok, the intersection of AI and healthcare, and Amazon's influence on parenting. Amanda Katz, a seasoned CNN editor, shares how motherhood reshaped her media consumption. With humor and honesty, they tackle generational divides and the challenges of navigating today's tech-driven landscape.

Bruce Schneier, a prominent security technologist and author of "Click Here to Kill Everybody," engages in a riveting discussion about the chaotic state of the internet of things. He emphasizes the urgent need for regulations to protect consumer rights amidst rising tech vulnerabilities, notably around facial recognition. Schneier articulates how the EU and specific US states might shape future tech governance, while exploring the ethical dilemmas and societal impacts of surveillance technologies. His insights balance grim realities with a hopeful view of technology's positive potential.

Jay Rosen, a journalism professor at NYU known for his insights on the digital landscape, dives into the transformative impact of Trump’s media strategy on journalism. The discussion highlights how social media shapes public opinion and facilitates misinformation, particularly post-2016 election. Rosen critiques the role of tech companies in journalism, urging for accountability and integrity. He emphasizes the urgent need for better fact-checking and community engagement to combat the rising tide of fake news ahead of the 2020 election.

Reflecting on their favorite interviews from 2019, the hosts dive into the implications of surveillance capitalism and the erosion of personal autonomy. They discuss the importance of design ethics in tech and highlight the emotional power of country music. The conversation shifts to the evolving dynamics of cancel culture and media, critiquing Hollywood's slow adaptation to the digital age. They also explore concise communication and its impact on corporate influence, all while sharing humorous moments from their creative journey.