Big Technology Podcast

Jonathan Knee, a Columbia Business School professor and senior advisor at Evercore, delves into the misuse of the term 'platform' in tech. He questions whether brands like Sweetgreen truly fit the bill. The conversation critiques market valuations and regulatory challenges for giants like Amazon and Google. Knee discusses how students today are shifting career aspirations from finance to tech startups, emphasizing the need for experience and mentorship. He also highlights the resilience of the new generation in navigating an evolving tech landscape.

Nir Eyal, bestselling author of 'Hooked' and 'Indistractable', delves into the intriguing questions around our smartphone use. He argues that while many perceive their tech habits as addiction, there's a distinction between genuine dependency and commonplace behavior. The conversation emphasizes ethical considerations for app developers and provides strategies for users to regain control. Eyal also reflects on the broader impacts of technology on well-being, advocating for a more nuanced understanding of our digital relationships.

Scott Heiferman, the founder of Meetup, focuses on bridging online and offline connections. He discusses the internet's dual role of uniting and isolating people, reflecting on the rise of loneliness, especially among Gen Z. Heiferman shares insights on the importance of community and empathy, critiquing social media's impact on genuine relationships. As he explores the potential of technologies like virtual reality, he emphasizes finding balance between digital interactions and real-life connections, inspiring hope for the future of human engagement.

Sheera Frenkel, a New York Times reporter and author of "An Ugly Truth," dives deep into the complex world of Facebook's influence on politics and reporting. She addresses criticisms that journalists harbor biases against the platform, particularly stemming from the Trump era. Frenkel examines the ethical responsibilities of reporters and the intricate dynamics of misinformation. Additionally, she sheds light on Facebook's surveillance practices and the challenges of content moderation in today's polarized environment.

Shelly Banjo, Bloomberg's New York Bureau Chief and host of the mini-series Foundering, discusses the risks surrounding TikTok's meteoric rise. She highlights the significant data security concerns posed by the app’s Chinese ownership and its implications for user privacy and national security. The conversation dives into TikTok's impact on social media dynamics, particularly its competition with Facebook and its addictive nature. Banjo also raises alarm about the platform's effects on child safety, emphasizing the need for parental awareness in the digital landscape.

Brendan Carr, the FCC Commissioner with a mission to expand internet access for the underserved, discusses his bold plan to provide connectivity to Cubans. He believes this could empower citizens to document government abuses and promote free expression. The conversation navigates the ethics of using technology for regime change and the complexities of international law. Carr also highlights innovative approaches like high-altitude balloons and emphasizes the critical role of the U.S. in supporting Cuban dissent through enhanced digital freedom.

Eliot Brown and Maureen Farrell, both Wall Street Journal reporters and co-authors of "The Cult of We," dissect the meteoric rise and fall of WeWork. They explore how WeWork’s branding transformed it into a tech giant, attracting irrational investment despite its real estate roots. The duo dives into the unpredictable venture capital landscape, emphasizing the influence of charismatic leadership and the cultural nuances affecting startup ambitions. Their analysis uncovers WeWork's legacy and the broader implications for the startup ecosystem.

Chris Best, CEO of Substack, shares insights on the transformative journey of his newsletter platform that's shaken up traditional media. He discusses Substack’s role in navigating online speech and censorship, emphasizing its potential as an alternative to conventional journalism. Best explains the rise of newsletters for direct audience engagement, addressing challenges like consistency and reader loyalty. He also tackles the dynamics of venture capital in digital communication and hints at the future of independent media in our evolving landscape.

Maria Klawe, a prominent computer scientist and president of Harvey Mudd College, shares a riveting account of her experience on Microsoft's board. She reveals a shocking confrontation with Bill Gates over the company's failure to consider women for leadership roles. Klawe discusses the cultural barriers women face in tech and highlights the disconnect between advocacy and corporate actions. Her candid reflections on diversity initiatives and the challenges within Microsoft's governance provide a compelling look at the ongoing struggle for inclusion in the industry.

Jim Lanzone, the CEO of Tinder, discusses how he is reshaping the dating app to better suit Gen Z's preferences. He contrasts Gen Z's dating behaviors with those of millennials, highlighting a shift towards more authentic and meaningful connections. Lanzone shares insights about innovative features like video profiles and the challenges of navigating competition in the dating app landscape. He also reveals whether he allows his kids to use Tinder and explores the evolving dual nature of the platform as both a casual hookup space and a place for serious relationships.