E20: Content Moderation, AI in Advertising, and the Future of Social Security

"The Riff" with Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg

In this episode, Byrne Hobart and Erik Torenberg discuss how technological changes influence markets and business adaptability. They explore the dynamics and challenges of e-commerce roll-ups, the unique economic incentives of large platforms like Facebook and Google, the complexities of content moderation on social media platforms, and social securities' future liabilities and taxes.

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This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at [email protected].

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SPONSOR: BRAVE

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LINKS:

Byrne’s writing: thediff.co

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X / TWITTER:

@eriktorenberg (Erik)

@byrnehobart (Byrne)

@turpentinemedia (Turpentine)

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TIMESTAMPS:

(00:00) Intro

(00:23) Exploring E-Commerce Roll-Ups and the Amazon Model

(07:13) Big Platforms and User Dynamics

(10:52) Sponsor: Turpentine | Brave

(12:41) The Never-Ending Challenge of Content Moderation

(20:33) How AI Could Transform Advertising

(29:53) Decoding the Economics of Facebook Marketplace

(36:47) Understanding Shrinkflation and Its Impact on Inflation Measurement

(45:46) The Future of Social Security: A Mark-to-Market Proposal

(55:11) Wrap