Big Technology Podcast

Max Chafkin, the Features editor at Bloomberg Businessweek and author of "The Contrarian," unpacks the complexities of Peter Thiel’s persona. They discuss whether Thiel reflects Silicon Valley's spirit or diverges from it. Topics include Thiel’s influence on entrepreneurship, his libertarian mindset, and his strategic political endorsements. Chafkin also delves into Thiel's unconventional investment strategies and the repercussions of his support for Donald Trump, providing an intriguing glimpse into the intersection of tech, politics, and society.

In this engaging discussion, Wall Street Journal reporter Jeff Horwitz, known for his revelatory reports on Facebook’s practices, teams up with former Facebook executive Brian Boland. They unravel startling discrepancies between Facebook's public statements and internal operations, highlighting content moderation challenges and the mental health impacts of Instagram. They also debate the implications of algorithm changes, the need for tech regulation, and the importance of transparency in addressing corporate malpractices.

Erin Griffith, a New York Times reporter covering the Theranos trial, provides insider insights into the courtroom drama surrounding Elizabeth Holmes. She discusses the deceptive claims behind Theranos’ blood testing technology and the ethical implications for Silicon Valley. Erin explores whether Holmes represents typical startup risks or if she's an outlier, and examines the ripple effects on female founders in biotech. Her analysis highlights the scrutiny women entrepreneurs face in a challenging funding landscape.

Zack O'Malley Greenburg, a seasoned music journalist and author, delves into how the music industry often anticipates technological shifts ahead of other sectors. He shares insights on the decline of retail giants and the rise of streaming services. Virtual concerts during the pandemic also take center stage, showcasing innovative artist-audience connections. Greenburg reflects on lessons from music icons, emphasizing resilience, creative ownership, and the impact of NFTs, all of which indicate music's leading role in adapting to digital changes.

Jonathan Knee, a Columbia Business School professor and senior advisor at Evercore, delves into the misuse of the term 'platform' in tech. He questions whether brands like Sweetgreen truly fit the bill. The conversation critiques market valuations and regulatory challenges for giants like Amazon and Google. Knee discusses how students today are shifting career aspirations from finance to tech startups, emphasizing the need for experience and mentorship. He also highlights the resilience of the new generation in navigating an evolving tech landscape.

Nir Eyal, bestselling author of 'Hooked' and 'Indistractable', delves into the intriguing questions around our smartphone use. He argues that while many perceive their tech habits as addiction, there's a distinction between genuine dependency and commonplace behavior. The conversation emphasizes ethical considerations for app developers and provides strategies for users to regain control. Eyal also reflects on the broader impacts of technology on well-being, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of our digital relationships.

Scott Heiferman, the founder of Meetup, focuses on bridging online and offline connections. He discusses the internet's dual role of uniting and isolating people, reflecting on the rise of loneliness, especially among Gen Z. Heiferman shares insights on the importance of community and empathy, critiquing social media's impact on genuine relationships. As he explores the potential of technologies like virtual reality, he emphasizes finding balance between digital interactions and real-life connections, inspiring hope for the future of human engagement.

Sheera Frenkel, a New York Times reporter and author of "An Ugly Truth," dives deep into the complex world of Facebook's influence on politics and reporting. She addresses criticisms that journalists harbor biases against the platform, particularly stemming from the Trump era. Frenkel examines the ethical responsibilities of reporters and the intricate dynamics of misinformation. Additionally, she sheds light on Facebook's surveillance practices and the challenges of content moderation in today's polarized environment.

Shelly Banjo, Bloomberg's New York Bureau Chief and host of the mini-series Foundering, discusses the risks surrounding TikTok's meteoric rise. She highlights the significant data security concerns posed by the app’s Chinese ownership and its implications for user privacy and national security. The conversation dives into TikTok's impact on social media dynamics, particularly its competition with Facebook and its addictive nature. Banjo also raises alarm about the platform's effects on child safety, emphasizing the need for parental awareness in the digital landscape.

Brendan Carr, the FCC Commissioner with a mission to expand internet access for the underserved, discusses his bold plan to provide connectivity to Cubans. He believes this could empower citizens to document government abuses and promote free expression. The conversation navigates the ethics of using technology for regime change and the complexities of international law. Carr also highlights innovative approaches like high-altitude balloons and emphasizes the critical role of the U.S. in supporting Cuban dissent through enhanced digital freedom.