Big Technology Podcast

Eliot Brown and Maureen Farrell, both Wall Street Journal reporters and co-authors of "The Cult of We," dissect the meteoric rise and fall of WeWork. They explore how WeWork’s branding transformed it into a tech giant, attracting irrational investment despite its real estate roots. The duo dives into the unpredictable venture capital landscape, emphasizing the influence of charismatic leadership and the cultural nuances affecting startup ambitions. Their analysis uncovers WeWork's legacy and the broader implications for the startup ecosystem.

Chris Best, CEO of Substack, shares insights on the transformative journey of his newsletter platform that's shaken up traditional media. He discusses Substack’s role in navigating online speech and censorship, emphasizing its potential as an alternative to conventional journalism. Best explains the rise of newsletters for direct audience engagement, addressing challenges like consistency and reader loyalty. He also tackles the dynamics of venture capital in digital communication and hints at the future of independent media in our evolving landscape.

Maria Klawe, a prominent computer scientist and president of Harvey Mudd College, shares a riveting account of her experience on Microsoft's board. She reveals a shocking confrontation with Bill Gates over the company's failure to consider women for leadership roles. Klawe discusses the cultural barriers women face in tech and highlights the disconnect between advocacy and corporate actions. Her candid reflections on diversity initiatives and the challenges within Microsoft's governance provide a compelling look at the ongoing struggle for inclusion in the industry.

Jim Lanzone, the CEO of Tinder, discusses how he is reshaping the dating app to better suit Gen Z's preferences. He contrasts Gen Z's dating behaviors with those of millennials, highlighting a shift towards more authentic and meaningful connections. Lanzone shares insights about innovative features like video profiles and the challenges of navigating competition in the dating app landscape. He also reveals whether he allows his kids to use Tinder and explores the evolving dual nature of the platform as both a casual hookup space and a place for serious relationships.

Adam Kovacevich, CEO of the Chamber of Progress and former Google public policy executive, dives into the complexities of Big Tech's influence on antitrust discussions. He shares insights on why tech companies prefer to fund advocacy rather than directly confront challenges. The conversation reveals the interplay between corporate interests and progressive values, the need for social responsibility in tech, and the intricate dynamics behind lobbying efforts. Kovacevich also highlights the struggles for transparency in policymaking and the ethical dimensions of the antitrust landscape.

Marshall Kosloff and Saagar Enjeti, co-hosts of The Realignment podcast, dive into the intersection of tech and politics with a focus on new bills targeting Big Tech. They discuss the profound implications of the FTC's regulations and the shifting dynamics between Silicon Valley and Washington. Topics include the challenges of data portability in social media, the nuances of antitrust legislation, and the delicate balance of content moderation during misinformation crises, especially in light of the pandemic.

In this engaging discussion, Andrew Ross Sorkin, co-anchor of Squawk Box on CNBC and founder of Dealbook at the New York Times, dives into the chaotic world of financial markets. He examines the rise of meme stocks like GameStop, influenced by social media dynamics. Sorkin critiques Bitcoin's volatility and its potential as a mainstream currency. He also tackles Big Tech antitrust issues, drawing parallels with the Epic vs. Apple case, and addresses the pressing need for fair wealth taxation, all while providing personal insights vital for understanding today’s economy.

Andrew Callaghan, the innovative creator behind All Gas No Breaks, dives into the challenges of independent media. He recounts his unique interviewing style that connects deeply with diverse American subcultures. As he transitions to Channel 5, Callaghan discusses the media’s role in perpetuating division and touches on the complexities of wealth and social movements. He candidly shares his struggles with creative freedom, monetization challenges on platforms like YouTube, and the impact of social media algorithms on public discourse.

Lauren Etter, a Bloomberg reporter and author of "The Devil's Playbook," dives into the Juul saga, revealing its rise from a health-focused alternative to a controversial player in the tobacco industry. She discusses the ethical dilemmas of marketing e-cigarettes to youth, the addictive nature of nicotine, and the regulatory gaps that enabled Juul's explosive growth. With sharp insights, Etter examines the impact of venture capital pressures on public health and the company's transformation, raising critical questions about tech ethics in today's landscape.

Jack Nicas, a New York Times reporter specializing in Apple and tech journalism, dives into the high-stakes legal battle between Epic Games and Apple. He shares insights from the courtroom, spotlighting the implications of Apple's 30% App Store cut and its antitrust challenges. Nicas also reveals disturbing details about Apple's data practices in China, where user data is stored in government-controlled servers, raising questions about privacy and corporate ethics. This conversation uncovers the delicate balance between business interests and consumer rights.