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
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disconnection within corporate culture, calling for meaningful changes that empower independent workers and challenge outdated norms.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.
59 snips
Jun 11, 2025 • 27min
The Era of the Business Idiot, Part 1
Discover how Business Idiots have infiltrated corporate structures, sidelining true meritocracy in favor of superficial growth tactics. Delve into the critique of tech CEOs relying on AI, exposing a trend that values appearances over real productivity. Explore the damaging focus on shareholder value, which neglects employee welfare and core business ethics. Unpack the disconnect between leadership and actual workforce needs, and understand the perilous consequences of uninformed management decisions in today's economic landscape.
33 snips
Jun 6, 2025 • 6min
Monologue: The AI Job Loss Con
In a thought-provoking discussion, Ed Zitron challenges the media's claims about AI-induced job losses. He unpacks the sensationalist narratives and propaganda from corporations, urging listeners to critically assess the facts. Instead of a bleak future, the conversation highlights how the job market is adapting to AI advancements. Zitron explores the potential for workers to find new opportunities amidst technological changes, providing a refreshing outlook on the evolving workforce landscape.
114 snips
Jun 4, 2025 • 58min
The Truth About Software Development with Carl Brown
Carl Brown, a veteran software developer and host of The Internet of Bugs, dives into the gritty truths of software development. He discusses the gap between media perceptions and real-world challenges, particularly around coding LLMs. Carl emphasizes the importance of communication and problem-solving over just coding. He explains the issues of code quality and the dangers of over-reliance on AI in the industry. Finally, he shares insights on how the evolving landscape of AI could change workforce dynamics, highlighting the need for technical skills and leadership.
43 snips
May 30, 2025 • 7min
Monologue: Don't Buy A Switch 2, Get A Handheld Gaming PC
This week dives into the exciting realm of handheld gaming PCs. Ed critiques Nintendo's marketing strategies, highlighting frustrations with product availability. The discussion compares the power and convenience of options like the Steam Deck and ASUS ROG Ally X against the Nintendo Switch 2. Portable gaming PCs are praised for their superior performance and extensive game libraries, making them a compelling choice for gamers. It's time to rethink your gaming purchases!
43 snips
May 28, 2025 • 42min
The Better Offline Mailbag
Sophie Lichterman, a producer at Coolzone Media, joins Ed Zitron to tackle listener queries covering life, tech, and creative challenges. They dive into the impact of AI on art and programming, revealing both benefits and concerns. Sophie and Ed also discuss the importance of genuine communication in education and the emotional connection fans feel with sports. With humor, they explore the balance of creativity and imperfection, emphasizing the joy of creating without the pressure of perfection.
57 snips
May 23, 2025 • 11min
Monologue: Jony Ive and OpenAI's New BS Machine
Ed Zitron dives into the outrageous $6.5 billion acquisition of Jony Ive's startup by OpenAI, questioning the motives behind this puzzling deal. He unpacks the skepticism surrounding the mysterious collaboration between a legendary designer and a major AI firm, highlighting frustrations over transparency. Concerns about OpenAI's business strategies emerge as Zitron critiques their hardware ambitions amid ongoing financial issues. Meanwhile, there's a nod to innovations in oral health and the importance of mental wellness support.
55 snips
May 21, 2025 • 44min
Saving Games Journalism With Giant Bomb
Dan Ryckert, Jeff Grubb, and Jeff Bakalar, co-owners of Giant Bomb, delve into the future of games journalism and the challenges they face. They share personal stories about transitioning ownership and maintaining journalistic integrity in a corporate landscape. The trio reflects on the decline of traditional media and the importance of independent voices in gaming. They also explore the rise of negativity in the industry, emphasizing the need for collaboration and genuine connections within the gaming community.
37 snips
May 16, 2025 • 9min
Monologue: How Better Offline Saved Me
Ed Zitron shares a compelling personal journey through creativity and mental health struggles. He reveals how writing saved his life during a particularly tough time. The discussion highlights the profound benefits of disconnecting from digital distractions, fostering deeper self-awareness and richer relationships. Personal anecdotes illustrate a transformative shift in understanding both the tech world and personal fulfillment, making for an engaging narrative about finding solace and purpose in the offline world.
