

Stratechery
Ben Thompson
Content from Stratechery, via podcast or RSS
Episodes
Mentioned books

9 snips
Jan 12, 2021 • 18min
Internet 3.0 and the Beginning of (Tech) History
Delve into misinterpretations of democracy and history as technology reshapes power dynamics. Explore how major tech companies influence modern governance and European calls for regulation after social media controversies. Discover concerns about big tech's chokehold on political discourse and the implications for democracy and free speech. Uncover a future of technology that champions individual sovereignty and the emergence of a fifth estate, fostering a new era of communication.

6 snips
Jan 7, 2021 • 11min
Trump and Twitter
The discussion dives into the complex relationship between technology and politics during Trump's presidency. It highlights the challenges social media faces in moderating content, especially during political transitions. The implications of deplatforming influential figures are examined, emphasizing the ethical responsibilities of tech giants. Additionally, the conversation raises crucial questions about balancing free speech with the prevention of real-world harm, showcasing the intricate dynamics at play in moderating political discourse.

11 snips
Jan 5, 2021 • 22min
New Defaults
Discover how changing default settings can drastically boost 401k participation, yet lead to unintentional investment choices. Explore Apple’s strides in user privacy and the global response to lockdowns during the pandemic. Dive into the story of a citizen journalist imprisoned for reporting on COVID-19, highlighting the tension between health measures and civil liberties. Analyze the rapid innovation behind the Moderna vaccine versus bureaucratic rollout challenges, and understand the contrasting economic approaches of China and the U.S. amidst a health crisis.

Dec 22, 2020 • 2min
The 2020 Stratechery Year in Review
The discussion kicks off with a fascinating reflection on 2020, showcasing how technology evolved in response to the pandemic. Remote work trends surged, transforming how we interact and collaborate. Additionally, the introduction of new podcast ventures adds a fresh layer to the conversation. A detailed recap invites listeners to delve even deeper into these significant changes that defined the year.

8 snips
Dec 15, 2020 • 14min
Social Networking 2.0
Explore the evolution of social networking, revealing a shift from traditional connections to authentic communities. Dive into the critique of current social media tools and their limitations, along with personal stories that shape online interactions. Unpack the transformation of digital identities and how platforms like TikTok are redefining communication. Discover the rise of trust-based interactions and the complexities of modern social expressions, painting a vivid picture of today’s digital landscape.

11 snips
Dec 8, 2020 • 21min
Privacy Labels and Lookalike Audiences
The podcast kicks off with an intriguing comparison of nutrition labels and Apple's privacy labels, revealing the pitfalls of misleading guidance. It emphasizes the importance of transparency in app privacy, equipping users with knowledge to make informed choices. The discussion dives into the murky waters of data privacy and ads, exposing the deceptive tactics of companies like Facebook. It also unpacks the creation of lookalike audiences for targeted advertising and the ethical dilemmas surrounding data collection. Finally, the impact of European privacy laws on child safety and digital competition is explored.

5 snips
Dec 3, 2020 • 11min
Stripe: Platform of Platforms
Stripe Treasury's launch showcases powerful APIs that enable seamless integration of financial services into platforms like Shopify. The podcast dives into the rise of platform ecosystems and how Stripe aids entrepreneurs with digital lending. It also emphasizes the importance of specialized financial solutions tailored to diverse businesses, from plumbers to gyms. Stripe aims to be the backbone of online economic infrastructure, driving growth through innovative product offerings and strategic partnerships.

Nov 30, 2020 • 12min
Five Lessons From Dave Chappelle
Dive into five key lessons inspired by Dave Chappelle's artistic journey. Discover how the evolution of comedy tackles financial hurdles and the lucrative potential of digital platforms. Learn about the complexities of artist contracts and the fight for fair compensation. Explore how Netflix empowers creators with its innovative distribution model. Finally, unpack the power dynamics in content creation influenced by the rise of digital platforms and the internet.

19 snips
Nov 23, 2020 • 15min
The Idea Adoption Curve
Explore how contemporary literature reveals the links between American politics and tech marketing strategies like 'Crossing the Chasm.' Discover the shifting landscape of media as blogging evolves into platforms like Substack, influenced by advertising and audience dynamics. Delve into the rise of subscription models and their impact on news organizations, highlighting the tension between audience perceptions and ideological representation. Unpack how journalism adapts in a digital landscape, navigating misinformation while seeking valuable insights.

29 snips
Nov 17, 2020 • 16min
Playing on Hard Mode
Dive into the evolution of internet business models, showcasing the journeys of giants like Facebook and Google. Explore Airbnb's transformative impact on travel, emphasizing unique local experiences over traditional stays. Discover the importance of trust in the hospitality market, illustrated through Airbnb and DoorDash's innovative approaches. Unpack the success of local logistics platforms, driven by brand affinity and local network effects. Finally, analyze the competitive dynamics of food delivery, focusing on DoorDash's suburban strategies and Uber Eats' urban challenges.