
The 404 Media Podcast
Welcome to the podcast from 404 Media where Joseph, Sam, Emanuel, and Jason catch you up on the stories we published this week. 404 Media is a journalist-owned digital media company exploring the way technology is shaping–and is shaped by–our world. We bring you unparalleled access to hidden worlds both online and IRL through investigative reporting, smart blogging, and breaking news. At 404 Media you’ll read, and hear, stories you can’t find anywhere else written by journalists who are leading experts on their beats. Subscribe to 404 Media at 404media.co to gain access to an ad-free version of this podcast, as well as a bonus podcast episodes. Subscribers are the bedrock of building a sustainable business for our journalism.Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

Apr 16, 2025 • 44min
Inside the ICE Deportation Tool
Dive into the intriguing world of ICE's powerful database used for identifying and deporting individuals. The impact of technology on immigration enforcement is laid bare, with a look at the controversial partnership with Palantir. Meanwhile, explore an AI service that engages elderly parents in conversation, sparking discussions on the role of tech in personal relationships. The podcast also humorously contrasts human interactions with emerging AI solutions, highlighting the complexities of companionship in a rapidly evolving digital landscape.

Apr 10, 2025 • 1h 7min
How a $2,000 'Made in the USA' Phone Is Manufactured
Todd Weaver, founder of Purism, dives into the complexities of U.S. smartphone manufacturing with his Liberty Phone. He discusses the challenges of sourcing components domestically while navigating global supply chains. Weaver highlights the importance of privacy and ethical practices in tech production. He also emphasizes how tariffs impact manufacturing costs and explores the battle between domestic and overseas production. The conversation unveils the delicate balance between efficient manufacturing and maintaining security and user privacy in an increasingly complex landscape.

24 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 57min
The FBI Secretly Ran a Massive Money Laundering Ring
A shocking revelation unfolds as the FBI's secretive money laundering ring is unveiled, which was used to ensnare drug traffickers and hackers. The podcast delves into the controversial methods employed by the FBI, raising ethical questions about law enforcement tactics in the underground economy. Next, listeners are treated to insights on how tariffs could inflate prices for the upcoming Nintendo Switch and the iPhone, highlighting the complexities of manufacturing in today's economy. A captivating analysis of Big Tech's political involvement rounds out the discussion.

13 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 50min
OpenAI's Studio Ghibli AI: 'An Insult to Life Itself'
The conversation kicks off with a deep dive into the collision of AI and Hayao Miyazaki's artistic legacy, leading to debates about AI-generated content in the realm of beloved anime. The hilarity ensues as the hosts humorously dissect a lawsuit from users shocked to discover they weren't engaging with real models on OnlyFans. Additionally, they tackle the mounting ethical dilemmas posed by AI's role in the creator economy and poke fun at the absurdity of online authenticity. Buckle up for a lively mix of culture, satire, and digital ethics!

11 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 49min
The DNA of 15 Million People Is For Sale
The fallout from the bankruptcy of a major DNA company raises serious privacy concerns for its users. Allegations of doxing Tesla owners spark discussions on digital security and ethical data sharing. The conversation highlights the anonymity breaches linked to anti-Tesla protests and the chilling effects of domestic terrorism designations on law enforcement. Fake audio involving a public figure adds a twist, revealing the complexities of misinformation in the age of AI. Tune in for a wild blend of genetic data woes and modern privacy challenges!

11 snips
Mar 19, 2025 • 43min
The Websites An ICE Contractor is Monitoring
Discover the surprising 200+ websites under surveillance by the ICE contractor, ShadowDragon, and the ethical dilemmas surrounding their data practices. In a twist, learn why prominent scientists from NASA and prestigious universities are contemplating relocation to France for better research conditions. Finally, indulge in a quirky exploration of how Super Nintendo consoles are inexplicably becoming faster over time, adding a dash of nostalgia and tech intrigue.

22 snips
Mar 12, 2025 • 47min
We're Not Ready for Chinese AI Video Generators
A deep investigation reveals how Chinese AI video models lack safeguards, leading to concerns over non-consensual content. The discussion shifts to law enforcement, where authorities use AI to analyze and summarize evidence from mobile devices. A surprising highlight includes a hugely profitable AI-developed game, juxtaposed with the reality that not all AI-generated games find success. The conversation raises critical ethical questions about the balance between innovation and responsibility in AI technologies.

35 snips
Mar 5, 2025 • 44min
The Tesla Protests Come for Cybertruck Owners
Amidst protests over Tesla's image, Cybertruck owners find themselves under fire, experiencing both mockery and vandalism. A look into how U.S. crypto traders are cleverly circumventing laws by acquiring Palau residency cards adds a twist. Meanwhile, a glitch on Instagram shockingly filled feeds with gruesome content. The discussion highlights the tension between innovation in cryptocurrency regulation and social media's unexpected pitfalls.

18 snips
Feb 26, 2025 • 43min
The Rise of AI Book Ripoffs
Learn how one writer discovered a blatant ripoff of his book through an AI-generated summary. Explore the troubling trend of AI publishers flooding platforms with low-quality content that misleads readers. Hear about a factory startup dehumanizing workers through invasive AI monitoring systems. Finally, get a glimpse into a satirical AI video featuring Musk and Trump, revealed as an act of protest within the U.S. government. Tune in for humor and critical insights on ethical implications in the age of AI!

21 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 40min
DOGE's Website, Hacked
The podcast dives into the bizarre world of website security, revealing how anyone could update the DOGE.gov site. It discusses chaotic web management with insights into other government sites facing similar issues. Lawyers are exposed for citing AI-generated cases, raising ethical alarms in the legal field. A fascinating segment covers a true crime documentary where all depicted murders were AI-generated, leaving listeners questioning the authenticity of stories they consume.
Remember Everything You Learn from Podcasts
Save insights instantly, chat with episodes, and build lasting knowledge - all powered by AI.