

Search Engine
PJ Vogt
We try to make sense of the world, one question at a time. No question too big, no question too small. Hosted by PJ Vogt, edited by Sruthi Pinnamaneni.***Named one of the best podcasts by Vulture, Time, The Economist, & Vogue. (OK, in 2023, but still...)***
Episodes
Mentioned books

32 snips
Aug 2, 2024 • 56min
The End
Coolio, the legendary rapper behind "Gangsta's Paradise," shares his thoughts on climate change during a brief airport interview. He reflects on the urgent challenges posed by environmental issues and the sometimes overwhelming distractions of daily life. With a backdrop of his spontaneous Greenland trip, Coolio emphasizes the need for unity and action in addressing climate impacts. His unique perspective intertwines with discussions on cryptocurrency's environmental effects, making for a compelling dialogue on sustainability and accountability.

14 snips
Jul 26, 2024 • 41min
The Kidnapping of Ape #8398
Dive into the chaotic world of NFTs with the baffling case of a stolen digital ape. Discover how an artist unveiled a game-changer at a tech conference, merging blockchain with art in wild ways. Explore the star-studded frenzy of Hollywood's NFT engagement, where celebrity endorsements raise eyebrows. Humor meets intrigue as internet sleuths chase down thieves in Singapore. The podcast wraps up with a sobering look at the crypto market's decline and fading celebrity interest, leaving listeners pondering the future of digital ownership.

14 snips
Jul 19, 2024 • 1h 9min
Genesis
Dive into the exciting world of Bitcoin, tracing its evolution from a simple PDF to a powerful movement. Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the Bitcoin Miami conference, where passionate discussions challenge financial norms. Hear personal journeys through the crypto landscape and the importance of education. Explore the cultural clash between Bitcoin and Ethereum communities, and enjoy spirited debates about trust and representation in finance. Amidst all this, enjoy humorous reflections on navigating life in the crypto realm.

16 snips
Jul 12, 2024 • 51min
The Bidding War
Quig Bruning, an auctioneer at Sotheby's renowned for auctioning the U.S. Constitution, joins Packy McCormick, a crypto writer and investor, to explore the fascinating intersection of history and cryptocurrency. They dive into the intense bidding war for a rare Constitution copy, showcasing the electrifying dynamics of modern auctions. The conversation also highlights the innovative rise of decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs) and people tokens, reshaping the landscape of collective investment and community governance in the crypto realm.

24 snips
Jun 26, 2024 • 1h 14min
Why didn’t Chris and Dan get into Berghain? (Part 2)
Gesine Kühne, a Berlin-based DJ and radio reporter, shares her insights into Berlin's dynamic techno scene. She discusses the evolution of techno from Detroit to Berlin, highlighting its role in transforming the city's cultural identity post-Wall. The episode takes listeners into the vibrant nightlife, exploring the iconic Berghain's exclusivity and the contrasting openness of clubs like Tresor. Gesine reflects on the intersection of nightlife with Berlin's history and culture, painting a vivid picture of a city that celebrates resilience through music.

33 snips
Jun 21, 2024 • 55min
Why didn’t Chris and Dan get into Berghain? (Part 1)
Join two Americans on their hilarious journey to the infamous Berghain, Berlin's techno mecca known for its harsh entry rules. They candidly share tales of rejection and anxiety while facing the imposing bouncers. The conversation dives into the club's rich history, the allure of nightlife, and what it means to belong in such an exclusive environment. Their humorous reflections highlight the contrasts between Berlin's unique party scene and American nightlife, revealing the mystique that keeps patrons yearning to be part of it all.

63 snips
Jun 14, 2024 • 1h 7min
What does it feel like to believe in God?
In this insightful conversation, Zvika Krieger, leader of a progressive Jewish spiritual community in Berkeley, shares his journey of faith. He reflects on growing up in a strict Orthodox environment while embracing contemporary culture. Zvika discusses the intersection of spirituality and technology, emphasizing the ethical dilemmas faced in modern society. He explores the essence of belief, the concept of divine oneness, and the art of surrender in prayer, revealing a dynamic understanding of faith that resonates with many.

27 snips
May 31, 2024 • 46min
How much glue should you put in your pizza?
Katie Notopolous, a tech and culture reporter at Business Insider, shares her hilarious experiment of making pizza with glue—yes, glue! She dives into the quirks of AI-generated search results, revealing how Google's system can lead to such absurd culinary suggestions. The conversation highlights the dangers of misinformation online, especially regarding health, while exploring the funny side of internet culture. Katie also discusses internet reliability and the fine line between humor and serious advice in the age of AI.

49 snips
May 22, 2024 • 1h 4min
How do we survive the media apocalypse? (Part 2)
Casey Newton, a tech reporter and co-host of the Hard Fork podcast, brings his insights to discuss the shifting landscape of online media. He highlights Google's recent shift to AI-generated summaries, raising concerns about its impact on news publishers. The conversation touches on the decline of traditional journalism amidst layoffs and quality compromises. Newton also introduces the Fediverse, a decentralized alternative that could empower users to reclaim control over their online experiences. This thought-provoking dialogue navigates the future of media and the challenges ahead.

42 snips
May 10, 2024 • 1h 1min
Should this creepy search engine exist?
Kashmir Hill, a Technology reporter at the New York Times specializing in privacy issues, shares insights on the emergence of facial recognition search engines. She discusses the controversial Clearview AI, its implications for privacy, and the ethical dilemmas of using publicly available images. Hill reveals the tangled relationship between innovation, public safety, and individual rights. The conversation touches on societal reactions to surveillance, data misuse, and the challenges of regulating technology in an increasingly monitored world.