Big Technology Podcast

In this discussion, Alex Roetter, former head of Twitter engineering and now a partner at Moxxie Ventures, evaluates Elon Musk's proposed changes for Twitter. He dives into the feasibility of user authentication improvements and the balance between free speech and moderation. The conversation touches on the potential of open-sourcing the algorithm and its implications for political bias. Roetter also shares his insights on how these changes could affect user experience and Twitter's long-term sustainability in a competitive landscape.

Charles Duhigg, a Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter and author of bestsellers like 'Smarter Faster Better,' dives into the rollercoaster journey of SPACs. He reflects on their meteoric rise and swift decline, explaining how these financial instruments have reshaped investor behavior. Duhigg also discusses Elon Musk's volatile influence on the market, particularly with his Twitter bid, and the challenges he faces in taking Twitter private. This conversation unravels the intricate relationship between narrative, technology, and the evolving financial landscape.

Ranjan Roy, co-author of the Margins newsletter, dives into Elon Musk's bold $43 billion bid to buy Twitter. He analyzes the implications for free speech and corporate accountability, questioning whether Musk can enhance the platform. The discussion touches on Musk’s rocky relationship with regulatory authorities and the potential chaos of his ownership style. Concerns about content moderation, employee anxieties, and the broader impact on financial markets are also key topics, wrapped in the tension of this unprecedented corporate move.

Antonio Garcia Martinez, an early Facebook employee and tech writer, dives deep into the intersection of technology and current events. He shares insights from his time at Apple, particularly regarding their ad strategies colliding with privacy concerns. The discussion touches on the meme 'the current thing,' exploring shifting narratives around Ukraine. Antonio also reflects on his personal journey, including converting to Judaism despite a skepticism of dogma, and critiques the media landscape's challenges in maintaining ethical reporting amid polarized politics.

Christopher Mims, a tech columnist for the Wall Street Journal and author, dives into the whirlwind of Elon Musk's recent acquisition of a 9.2% stake in Twitter. He discusses Musk's potential influence on content moderation and algorithm changes, and how his vision might reshape the platform. The conversation also touches on Musk's history of impacting internet culture and the challenges of promoting free speech in a decentralized environment. Mims offers insights into the cultural and business implications of Musk's transformative approach to Twitter.

Cher Scarlett, a former Apple engineer, pioneered a movement for pay transparency and bravely spoke out against Apple's culture. She shares her personal transformation from a challenging upbringing to a prominent tech role. The conversation reveals the paradox of Apple’s environment, where dissenters face isolation and secrecy. Scarlett delves into the complexities of advocating for transparency, the stark contrast between leadership styles, and the ongoing struggles for corporate accountability in the tech industry.

Teddy Schleifer, founding partner at Puck and an expert on billionaires, dives into the world of oligarchs and their influence. He discusses the impact of sanctions on Russian oligarchs amid the Ukraine conflict and distinguishes between oligarchs and traditional billionaires. The conversation shifts to the complex connections between oligarch money and Silicon Valley, raising moral questions about investments from controversial figures. Teddy also explores how public perceptions of wealth are changing in light of geopolitical tensions.

Orchid Bertelsen, CEO of Common Thread Collective, and David Herrmann, President of Herman Digital, dive into how Apple's anti-tracking changes have transformed digital advertising. They discuss the challenges small businesses face amid soaring costs and stricter data privacy rules. The conversation reveals how platforms like TikTok and Amazon are taking advantage of Facebook's struggles, reshaping brand storytelling and marketing strategies. They also highlight the need for creativity in this new landscape where user privacy and business sustainability must coexist.

Miriam Elder, executive editor at Vanity Fair Hive and former Moscow correspondent for The Guardian, dives deep into Russia's information war alongside its conflict in Ukraine. She reveals how Russia's social media strategies are faltering and the complexities of propaganda within Russian society. The discussion also touches on the economic impact of sanctions, the challenges faced by journalists in Russia, and the struggles of Bitcoin to seize opportunities amidst this turmoil. Elder's insights illuminate the intricate relationship between media, power, and global finance.

Jim McKelvey, co-founder of Square and chair of the St. Louis Fed, dives into the current economic climate shaped by high inflation and global uncertainty. He debates the Fed's next moves amidst geopolitical strains, like the Ukraine conflict. McKelvey shares his risk-tolerance philosophy, emphasizing how failure can fuel innovation. He reveals why his new startup won’t utilize blockchain and teases an upcoming SXSW panel about empowering individuals in the evolving data economy with solutions like the Invisibly platform.