Channels with Peter Kafka

Michael Nathanson, a veteran media and tech analyst at MoffettNathanson, dives into Wall Street's complex relationship with the tech industry. He questions why Meta's stock remained stable despite Zuckerberg's pro-MAGA shift and why media giants are eager to part with cable but cling to broadcast. The discussion also tackles the implications of Google's antitrust case and the political influence on tech regulations, revealing how these dynamics are shaping the future of media consumption and investments in AI.

Katie Notopoulos, a Senior Correspondent at Business Insider, navigates the wild world of internet culture with humor and insight. She shares why her love for the internet endures despite its flaws. Parenting in the digital age brings challenges, especially managing kids' online access. Notopoulos discusses the quirky nature of workplace communication on Slack and dives into the controversial realm of children's entertainment, tackling issues of content ethics and the impact of social media on kids. Lively and engaging, her perspective is a refreshing take on today's digital frontier.

Lucas Shaw, Bloomberg's astute media reporter, shares his insights on the year’s shifts in the media landscape. He discusses the impact of a potential TikTok ban and how platforms like YouTube might adapt. The conversation dives into Saudi Arabia's burgeoning film industry and the ethical complexities Hollywood faces there. Shaw also tackles the challenges legacy media companies encounter while evolving their strategies, as well as the uncertain future of ESPN's subscription model amid changing consumer habits.

Tim Huelskamp, co-founder of 1440, shares insights from his journey in creating a successful newsletter with 4 million readers. He discusses the art of delivering concise news and the challenges of competing in a saturated market. The conversation explores the evolving landscape of advertising, the role of AI in media, and the importance of maintaining genuine relationships with readers. Huelskamp emphasizes fostering a positive workplace culture, which he believes translates to better product quality and customer satisfaction.

Renee DiResta, an academic and researcher at Georgetown, specializes in online abuse and disinformation. She shares her experiences with harassment while studying the 'Stop the Steal' movement. The conversation highlights the rising challenges of content moderation as political dynamics shift, especially with Trump back in the spotlight. DiResta warns of a chilling effect on research and the importance of transparency in combating misinformation. She also humorously reflects on what not to do when appearing on popular podcasts.

Jason Koebler, co-founder of 404 Media and former Vice Media tech head, shares his journey of launching a successful media company with just $4,000. He discusses the challenges of creating a sustainable model without relying on rich investors and emphasizes the importance of quality journalism. Koebler highlights the innovative strategies behind their subscriber-based funding and the impact of community-driven tech journalism. They also explore the dynamics of independent media and the need for diverse voices in tech reporting, bridging niche narratives with audience engagement.

Chris Balfe, Founder and CEO of Red Seat Ventures, is a powerhouse in online media, having previously collaborated with Glenn Beck. He discusses how prominent figures like Tucker Carlson and Megyn Kelly are reshaping the media landscape as they transition to digital platforms. Balfe dives into the dynamics of monetization for podcasts, challenges in brand advertising, and the significance of genuine audience connections. He also highlights the political impact of independent media and the evolving nature of content creation in today's digital world.

Taylor Lorenz, a sharp observer of internet culture and former journalist for major publications, shares her insights on the political landscape post-election. She discusses the pitfalls of the Harris campaign and why Democrats struggle to mirror Joe Rogan's media dominance. Lorenz reflects on her transition to independent content creation, highlighting the importance of personal branding in an era where traditional media's influence wanes. She also critiques the disconnect between online narratives and real-world issues, emphasizing the need for effective engagement with younger voters.

You want up-to-the minute election analysis? Sorry, not on this episode.But: If you want smart thoughts about politics and media and tech all merged together? We got you here, courtesy of The Atlantic’s Charlie Warzel, who came on to discuss how we should think about Elon Musk, Donald Trump supporter, being the same person as Elon Musk, guy who owns Twitter. Plus, because it’s Charlie: A useful way to think about what misinformation is, and isn’t.And! If you don’t want politics in your podcast today, we can accommodate that too, via a chat with Griffin Gaffney, the CEO/publisher of the San Francisco Standard. The Standard, owned by billionaire Mike Moritz, is a three-year-old news startup that lots of people in the Bay Area seem to love. And I wanted to know how he’s making it work, and the pros and cons of having a billionaire owner, and how he thinks the paper might actually turn a profit some day.Ideally, you’ll listen to both of these chats. But it’s a podcast! You do you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jon Lovett, co-founder of Crooked Media and former Obama aide, shares insights on successfully navigating the turbulent political media landscape since the 2016 election. He discusses the challenges of engaging with an increasingly divided electorate, especially amid the Trump era. Lovett reflects on the uninspiring election season, the personal impacts of a digital detox, and the humor found in political commentary. He also weighs in on Biden's debate performance and the concerns surrounding his age, adding a light-hearted touch with tales from reality TV.