Big Technology Podcast: "Big Technology @ Five Years" – Detailed Summary
Podcast Information:
- Title: Big Technology Podcast
- Host/Author: Alex Kantrowitz
- Description: The Big Technology Podcast delves behind the scenes of the tech world, featuring conversations with both insiders and outside agitators. Hosted by Alex Kantrowitz, a seasoned Silicon Valley journalist renowned for his interviews with top tech CEOs, including Mark Zuckerberg and Larry Ellison.
- Episode: Big Technology @ Five Years
- Release Date: July 14, 2025
1. Introduction and Gratitude
Timestamp: [00:00]
Alex Kantrowitz opens the episode with heartfelt gratitude, marking the five-year milestone of the Big Technology Podcast. He expresses astonishment at reaching this significant anniversary and extends a sincere thank you to his listeners for their unwavering support.
“We're five years in and this show is sustainable.” – Alex Kantrowitz [00:00]
2. Podcast Growth and Audience Milestone
Timestamp: [00:00 – 02:00]
Alex highlights the podcast's impressive growth trajectory:
- Ranking Success: Consistently in the top 10 for tech news on Apple Podcasts, frequently breaking into the top five.
- Sustainability: Achieving a sustainable model where audience size directly supports the show's production.
“We're consistently in the top 10 for tech news on Apple podcasts. We're often in the top five.” – Alex Kantrowitz [00:45]
3. Future Guests and Content Direction
Timestamp: [02:00 – 03:30]
Looking ahead, Alex anticipates featuring more prominent guests as the audience continues to expand. Noteworthy mentions include:
- AI Leaders: Demis Hassabis, CEO of Google DeepMind, has already appeared twice, with Sergey Brin, Google co-founder, joining at Google I/O.
- Upcoming Guests: Potential leaders from other AI research institutions and possibly a former U.S. Secretary of State.
“I predict we will see a leader of another AI research house coming on in the next couple of months and hopefully a former US Secretary of State.” – Alex Kantrowitz [02:30]
4. Business Model Changes: Transitioning from LinkedIn Podcast Network
Timestamp: [03:30 – 05:30]
A significant shift in the podcast's business model is announced:
- Ending Partnership: The podcast will no longer be part of LinkedIn's Podcast Network after three successful years.
- Continuity: The show will continue uninterrupted but will adopt a more traditional podcast advertising approach.
“We are going to switch up the business a little bit. Show continues as normal, but it's going to sound a lot more like a real podcast now.” – Alex Kantrowitz [04:10]
5. Advertising Strategy
Timestamp: [05:30 – 07:30]
Alex outlines his vision for integrating advertisements:
- Quality Over Quantity: Emphasis on high-quality, native ads without overwhelming listeners.
- Anchor Sponsors: Seeking one or two main advertisers to provide short, engaging messages, typically placed at the beginning of episodes.
- Avoiding Programmatic Ads: Initially steering clear of automated ad placements to maintain listener experience.
“I am not going to flood the Zone with ads. This will not be one of those podcasts that stops every five seconds for an ad break.” – Alex Kantrowitz [06:20]
6. Editorial Strategy: Balancing AI Perspectives
Timestamp: [07:30 – 09:00]
Addressing the evolving landscape of AI, Alex discusses his editorial approach:
- Balanced Discussions: Committed to featuring both critics and proponents of AI to foster comprehensive understanding.
- Challenging Conversations: Aiming to ask tough, insightful questions that reveal deeper truths and unearth genuine opinions.
- Educational Focus: Helping the audience grasp how AI will impact lives, careers, and society.
“If you are a critic of AI or if you're a booster, we want to have both of you on there because ultimately we are trying to learn.” – Alex Kantrowitz [08:15]
7. Supporting the Podcast: Listener Actions
Timestamp: [09:00 – 11:30]
Alex provides actionable steps for listeners to support and help grow the podcast:
-
Word of Mouth: Encourage sharing the podcast with friends, coworkers, and broader networks.
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Ratings and Reviews: Urges listeners to rate the show five stars on platforms like Apple Podcasts and Spotify to enhance visibility and credibility.
“Ratings are the only publicly identifiable metric for podcasts. [...] We have 418 ratings on Apple podcasts.” – Alex Kantrowitz [10:00]
-
Paid Subscriptions: Offers access to exclusive content and a Discord community for paid subscribers, including special discounts.
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Anchor Sponsorships: Invites companies to become anchor sponsors, contributing to the show's sustainability and quality.
8. Conclusion: Optimism and Future Prospects
Timestamp: [11:30 – End]
Closing on an optimistic note, Alex reflects on the enduring potential of podcasting and his dedication to the Big Technology Podcast:
- Long-Term Vision: Envisions continuing the show for at least the next two decades, highlighting its staying power.
- Gratitude: Reiterates thanks to the audience and special mention to Ranjan for contributing positively to the show's dynamic.
- Looking Forward: Expresses excitement for the podcast's future endeavors and the journey ahead.
“I have at least 20 years left doing this show, and there's some real staying power.” – Alex Kantrowitz [11:00]
“Five years of Big Technology. Here's to the next five.” – Alex Kantrowitz [End]
Key Takeaways:
- Milestone Achievement: Celebrating five successful years with significant audience growth and top rankings.
- Strategic Growth: Plans to feature more high-profile guests, especially from the AI sector.
- Business Evolution: Transitioning from LinkedIn’s network to a traditional advertising model, focusing on quality and listener experience.
- Balanced Content: Commitment to diverse perspectives on AI to educate and engage the audience.
- Community Engagement: Encouraging listeners to actively support through sharing, ratings, subscriptions, and sponsorships.
- Optimistic Future: Strong belief in the podcast’s longevity and continued relevance in the tech media landscape.
Notable Quotes:
- “We're five years in and this show is sustainable.” – Alex Kantrowitz [00:00]
- “I am not going to flood the Zone with ads.” – Alex Kantrowitz [06:20]
- “If you are a critic of AI or if you're a booster, we want to have both of you on there because ultimately we are trying to learn.” – Alex Kantrowitz [08:15]
- “I have at least 20 years left doing this show, and there's some real staying power.” – Alex Kantrowitz [11:00]
This episode serves as both a reflection on the podcast's achievements and a roadmap for its future, emphasizing growth, quality content, and community support. Listeners are encouraged to continue their engagement to help shape the ongoing success of the Big Technology Podcast.