Big Technology Podcast

Gary Vaynerchuk, owner of VaynerMedia, and Blake Chandlee, TikTok’s head of global business solutions, dive into TikTok's uncertain future amid government scrutiny and potential bans. They discuss the platform's strategies for user data security and fostering creativity during these turbulent times. Vaynerchuk and Chandlee highlight TikTok's innovative culture and its unique approach to user engagement and content creation, ultimately positioning it against competitors like Facebook and Instagram. Expect insights on navigating the evolving social media landscape!

In this engaging conversation, Emil Michael, former chief business officer at Uber, reveals insider perspectives on the company's cultural upheavals and changes in leadership. He discusses Uber's struggle during the pandemic as car ownership rises, and the implications for ride-hailing services. The challenges of self-driving technology and ethical concerns surrounding autonomous vehicles are explored, alongside the emerging startup landscape created by former Uber employees. Michael emphasizes the need for collaboration in navigating the future of transportation.

Sarah Frier, a Bloomberg reporter and author of 'No Filter,' dives deep into the complexities of Facebook's acquisition of Instagram. She shares insights on the potential antitrust lawsuit by the FTC and the implications for social media's future. The conversation spans the evolving media landscape, reflecting on how concerns have shifted from business to broader societal impacts. Frier highlights the urgency behind Facebook's purchase, explores the regulatory scrutiny it faced, and raises thought-provoking questions about market control and competition.

Swati Mylavarapu, a tech investor and activist known for her role at Insight Partners and political engagement, dives deep into the tech industry's responsibilities. She shares her battle with COVID-19, highlighting the emotional toll and healthcare challenges. Mylavarapu discusses Silicon Valley's impact on income inequality and advocates for conscious capitalism. She emphasizes the urgency for tech leaders to address societal issues through activism while balancing profit with purpose, promoting diversity and accountability in the sector.

Hunter Walk, a partner at Homebrew VC and former Google and YouTube executive, dives into the intersection of tech and politics in a rapidly evolving landscape. He discusses how tech companies have entered political discourse and their newfound responsibilities. The conversation touches on the influence of giants like Facebook and YouTube on governance and society, the complexities of regulating platforms, and the implications of U.S.-China tech relations, particularly around TikTok. Hunter also shares insights from his transition from media to venture capital.

Noah Shachtman, Editor-in-chief of The Daily Beast, shares insights on the recent election results and the future of the Democratic Party. He discusses the challenges of managing a newsroom during a high-stakes election night. The conversation dives into the interplay between politics and internet culture, where social media's role in shaping voter perceptions is scrutinized. Shachtman also evaluates how tech platforms are combating misinformation, balancing regulation and free expression, all amid a tense political landscape.

Steve Schmidt, co-founder of The Lincoln Project and former senior advisor to John McCain, dives into the tumultuous evolution of the Republican Party since 2008. He discusses the pervasive influence of social media on modern politics and how it’s utilized to spread anti-Trump messaging. Schmidt also critiques the party's moral decay, emphasizing the need for a pro-democracy approach. Additionally, he sheds light on the challenges of financial transparency in political campaigns and how targeted advertising strategies are reshaping voter engagement.

Meredith Whittaker, an AI researcher and a former Google employee renowned for leading the 2018 walkout, dives into the intricacies of tech activism. She critiques 'The Social Dilemma,' emphasizing the need for an inclusive discussion on tech's impact on social issues like race and gender. Whittaker discusses the disparities in labor practices within tech and advocates for collective action. She highlights the importance of including marginalized voices in AI discussions and the ethical dilemmas emerging from corporate practices.

Luther Lowe, Senior Vice President of Public Policy at Yelp, shares his insights on the U.S. Department of Justice's groundbreaking antitrust lawsuit against Google. He highlights Google's monopolization strategies, including how default settings and partnerships, particularly with Apple, contribute to its dominance. Lowe discusses the shift of Google from a useful tool to a monopolistic force and stresses the need for small businesses to unite in the face of big tech. With bipartisan support for the case, the future of competition in Silicon Valley hangs in the balance.

Ben Smith, former editor-in-chief of BuzzFeed News and current media columnist for The New York Times, shares insights on the evolving media landscape. He discusses the impact of tools like Slack on newsroom dynamics and the importance of inclusivity in journalism. Smith highlights the decline of trust in mainstream media among Republicans and the challenges posed by misinformation. He also explores the complex relationship between tech regulation and politics, advocating for common-sense solutions as the media industry navigates transformation.