People vs Algorithms

Just another show presented as centrist, discussing superficial issues…. 3 minutes in talking about Trump. Nothing interesting or original here.

I’m enjoying the new vibes of the show. The insight is strong, and the conversations remain sharp and prescient. AB is a solid addition because knowing where dinner hangs for these media/tech companies informs so much about their behavior. The one thing that keeps it from being a full five stars for me is the inconsistency of the voices. When Troy or Alex are out, the balance shifts, and that mix is a big part of what makes the show work. Brian holds the center well. His takes are measured but never dull and I’ve come to trust his perspective a lot (check out The Rebooting, too). Consistency across the full group would push the show back to its best. (I’d write a longer review, but I have a hard stop.)

There’s something that I’m getting from this pod that is unique… so even though you’re a sexless Fleetwood Mac, please don’t breakup. But, why is Troy always at Alex’s throat? I’m pretty sure that we’re all 75% listening this for the insight of how tech will change media. Why so angry at the most tech-forward amount you — that being Alex? Troy, you have a beautiful, boomer(ing) voice. You’re already turned up to 11. Only Spinal Tap wants that.

Love this show, it hits a real sweet spot for me between the evolution of digital media and publishing, product, advertising and new technology and its potential impact but with a more wide angle lens looking at more subjects and interesting points of view on some of what’s happening in the world. Love the hosts, love their dynamic and their individual viewpoints on the same issues. Keep going with more of the same!