Better Offline
Cool Zone Media and iHeartPodcasts
Better Offline is a weekly show exploring the tech industry’s influence and manipulation of society - and interrogating the growth-at-all-costs future that tech’s elite wants to build.
Combining narrative-form storytelling, one-on-one interviews and panel-based discussions, Better Offline cuts through the buzzwords and obfuscation of the tech industry, investigating and evaluating the schemes and scams of everyone from cryptocurrency scumbags to the greediest of the venture capital elite. Tech industry veteran Ed Zitron and a dynamic coterie of guests will help listeners understand the who, how and why of how tech’s most powerful players are changing the world - for better or for worse.
Combining narrative-form storytelling, one-on-one interviews and panel-based discussions, Better Offline cuts through the buzzwords and obfuscation of the tech industry, investigating and evaluating the schemes and scams of everyone from cryptocurrency scumbags to the greediest of the venture capital elite. Tech industry veteran Ed Zitron and a dynamic coterie of guests will help listeners understand the who, how and why of how tech’s most powerful players are changing the world - for better or for worse.
Episodes
Mentioned books
36 snips
Jul 10, 2025 • 11min
Monologue: Is Anthropic Killing Cursor?
In a thought-provoking monologue, the host highlights how new pricing changes from Anthropic are affecting its biggest client, Cursor. This shift showcases the emergence of the Subprime AI Crisis. The discussion dives into user backlash over rising costs and concerns about service quality. Furthermore, financial struggles facing generative AI companies are examined, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable monetization to avoid industry decline.
37 snips
Jul 9, 2025 • 30min
Make Fun Of Them, Pt. 1
In this lively discussion, the host tackles the absurdity of unchallenged CEO narratives, spotlighting the façade of power in tech industries. Sam Altman's dual nature sparks debate, revealing both potential and pitfalls of AI. The conversation critiques the tech media's role in perpetuating shallow views and monotonous jargon, while calling for genuine accountability. Frustrations with dysfunctional tech draw a divide between corporate promises and reality, urging a reevaluation of respect for influential figures. Community engagement and life's spontaneity take center stage as well.
28 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 11min
Monologue: You Should Get Into Vinyl
Discover the enchanting world of vinyl as Ed Zitron shares his personal journey with records. He dives into the unique sound experience that analog music offers in our digital age. Listeners will enjoy tales of hidden musical gems and the magic of classic albums. The discussion also highlights the tactile joy and emotional connections fostered through collecting vinyl. Embrace this rewarding hobby and reignite your passion for music!
13 snips
Jul 2, 2025 • 1h 15min
Radio Better Offline: Gare Davis, Victoria Song, Allison Morrow
Victoria Song, Lead AI reporter at The Verge, dives into the quirks and disappointments of AI, especially in health tech. Allison Morrow, a CNN journalist, shares insights on business trends and the looming threats AI poses to entry-level journalism jobs. Gare Davis, a podcaster from Cool Zone Media, discusses the growing skepticism towards tech culture and the neo-Luddite movement emerging among younger generations. Together, they tackle the intersection of AI, business, and societal implications, painting a vivid picture of our tech-driven future.
36 snips
Jun 27, 2025 • 11min
Monologue: Did OpenAI Steal Another Startup's Idea?
Delve into the murky waters of a lawsuit swirling around OpenAI and Iyo, exploring claims of trademark infringement and competition in the tech arena. The host voices frustrations over the unoriginal naming strategies of both parties involved. The discussion also touches on OpenAI's deal-making with Microsoft and critiques the outdated views on payment solutions. Tune in for a thought-provoking analysis of intellectual property in the rapidly evolving world of AI.
17 snips
Jun 25, 2025 • 47min
NVIDIA Vs. The Media ft. GamersNexus
Steve Burke from GamersNexus joins the discussion, shedding light on NVIDIA's contentious relationship with media outlets. They tackle how AI innovations are reshaping tech events like Computex and consumers' view of hardware. The chat dives into the pressures tech companies exert on media reviews, questioning editorial integrity. They explore the impact of AI-generated content on authenticity in online discussions, alongside a thought-provoking dialogue on AI's potential in creativity and its ethical implications. It's a fascinating look into the tech landscape today!
52 snips
Jun 20, 2025 • 9min
Monologue: OpenAI Vs. Microsoft
Tensions are escalating between OpenAI and Microsoft as they navigate a complex financial relationship. OpenAI's shift towards a for-profit model raises questions about control and profit-sharing. The struggle for autonomy against Microsoft's dominance is becoming increasingly critical. With OpenAI seeking new concessions, the future of this partnership hangs in the balance. Meanwhile, innovative strategies are essential for OpenAI to secure funding and overcome legal hurdles, showcasing the high stakes in the AI landscape.
23 snips
Jun 18, 2025 • 1h 25min
Radio Better Offline: Pablo Torre and David Roth
Pablo Torre, a prominent sports broadcaster known for his insightful takes, teams up with David Roth, co-owner of Defector and expert on cultural commentary. They humorously dive into the quirks of turtle ownership and discuss the intersection of sports and culture, emphasizing the powerful narratives surrounding athletes. The duo critiques the struggles of independent media and the art of engaging journalism, all while sharing personal anecdotes and insights on the evolving narrative landscape in sports reporting. Expect laughs and compelling analysis!
48 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 35min
The Era of the Business Idiot, Part 3
This episode delves into the troubling trend of 'Business Idiots' who prioritize superficial knowledge, undermining corporate culture and employee experiences. It challenges the striking lack of accountability among CEOs despite their grand promises, revealing stark contrasts in corporate performance. The discussion exposes a complacent relationship between business leaders and media, emphasizing the negative consequences for employees. Additionally, it critiques the disconnection within corporate culture, calling for meaningful changes that empower independent workers and challenge outdated norms.
56 snips
Jun 12, 2025 • 33min
The Era of the Business Idiot, Part 2
Delve into the world of 'Business Idiots' who mask their ineffectiveness with power. Explore how corporate narcissism fuels a reckless adoption of generative AI and the disconnect managers have with their teams. The critique of quiet quitting reveals deeper workplace issues, while the erosion of critical journalism leaves us questioning accountability. Lastly, discover the dangerous double-edge of AI in business and law enforcement that poses ethical dilemmas and threats to justice.
