Decoder with Nilay Patel

Andrew Marantz, a staff writer at The New Yorker and author of *Antisocial*, dives into the perilous relationship between social media and extremism. He discusses how platforms prioritize emotional engagement, amplifying figures like Milo Yiannopoulos and the alt-right's rise. Marantz critiques the Silicon Valley culture of 'big swinging brains' and explains why merely banning controversial users lacks depth. He further explores the media’s role in shaping political narratives and the societal fragmentation caused by manipulation and misinformation.

Carly Fiorina, former CEO of HP and 2016 Republican presidential candidate, shares her journey from a secretary to a tech leader. She discusses the challenges women face in a male-dominated industry and critiques the concentration of power in Silicon Valley. Fiorina reflects on her unique friendship with Steve Jobs and the missteps of both Trump and Zuckerberg. The conversation also touches on the necessity of authentic leadership and the importance of problem solvers in politics, while highlighting the evolving dynamics within the Republican Party.

Ellen Weintraub, Chair of the Federal Election Commission, breaks down the FEC's crucial role in safeguarding democracy. She discusses the commission's current paralysis due to a lack of quorum, stalling vital investigations. The need for transparency in campaign finance amidst foreign interference is emphasized, particularly regarding online advertising. Weintraub also confronts misinformation, debunking claims of voter fraud and urging for accessible voting. This engaging conversation highlights the urgent need for reforms to ensure fair elections in the digital age.

Michael Daniel, former cybersecurity coordinator for President Obama and current CEO of the Cyber Threat Alliance, dives deep into the state of US cybersecurity as the 2020 elections approach. He discusses the challenges posed by election hacking and the misleading safety measures that could arise. Daniel emphasizes the critical need for trust among election officials, government, and tech industries, and highlights the urgency to address misinformation and data privacy issues in the digital sphere. His insights shed light on international cyber threats and the potential for catastrophic accidents.

Rebecca Kelly Slaughter, FTC Commissioner and former chief counsel to Senator Chuck Schumer, dives into the pressing antitrust issues plaguing the tech industry. She critiques the FTC's penalties, highlighting her concerns about the $5 billion Facebook fine. Slaughter discusses the ongoing investigations into YouTube and the limits of corporate accountability. She also reflects on tech mergers during the Obama era and why a new internet regulatory agency isn't necessary, offering a deep look at the balance between enforcement and innovation in a rapidly evolving sector.

Mark Warner, Senior US Senator from Virginia and vice chairman of the Senate Intelligence Committee, dives into pressing topics like election security and foreign interference, particularly from Russia. He discusses the need for regulatory reforms amidst growing concerns over tech giants' power. Warner expresses cautious optimism for bipartisan support on election reform and highlights the complexities of regulating social media in light of Section 230. Additionally, he addresses the evolving gig economy and the necessity for a revamped social insurance system to support workers.

John Napier Tye, founder and CEO of Whistleblower Aid, discusses the vital role of whistleblowers in exposing corruption both in government and at private organizations. He shares insights on high-profile cases, including those involving MIT and President Trump’s phone call with Ukraine. Tye highlights the challenges whistleblowers face, including retaliation and legal complexities, while emphasizing the need for protective measures and secure communication. He also reflects on the evolving nature of whistleblowing in the digital age and its essential contribution to democracy.

In an engaging discussion, Bill Browder, a former hedge fund manager and human rights advocate known for his fight against Russian corruption, teams up with his son, Josh Browder, CEO of the innovative legal tech company DoNotPay. They delve into their shared mission to empower individuals against corporate injustices and explore how technology can simplify legal processes. The conversation tackles the complexities of the Magnitsky Act, subscription traps, and the ethical responsibilities of tech innovators in today's digital landscape.

Jodi Kantor and Megan Twohey, both New York Times investigative reporters and co-authors of 'She Said,' delve into their groundbreaking work uncovering sexual harassment, particularly focusing on the Harvey Weinstein allegations. They discuss the impact of non-disclosure agreements and the silence surrounding victims. The duo reflects on the emotional toll of investigative journalism, shares insights on key moments like Christine Blasey Ford's testimony, and explores the ongoing challenges and complexities of the Me Too movement.

Steve Schwarzman, CEO of The Blackstone Group and author of "What It Takes: Lessons in the Pursuit of Excellence", shares his insights on leadership and investment strategies. He delves into his Schwarzman Scholars program, designed to enhance U.S.-China relations through education. Schwarzman emphasizes navigating economic trends and the role of technology, especially AI, in shaping business dynamics. He also addresses the urgent need for stakeholder inclusivity and proposes initiatives to tackle public discontent and bridge societal divides.