Tangle Podcast Episode Summary: "The Friday Edition: Debunking Some Myths About Tangle (and Me)"

Release Date: February 28, 2025
Host: Isaac Saul

Introduction

In this episode of the Tangle Podcast, host Isaac Saul takes a deep dive into clarifying common misconceptions about the Tangle platform and himself. Aimed at fostering a more transparent relationship with the audience, Saul addresses the organization's mission, core values, and the personal principles that guide his editorial decisions.

Mission and Core Values

Isaac begins by sharing insights from an internal presentation he recently delivered to the Tangle team. Central to Tangle's existence is the commitment to deliver trustworthy political news that appeals to a diverse audience spanning the left, right, and center.

Key Values Outlined:

1. Big Tent Media Organization

   • "Everyone is invited and we are for everyone."
     (02:30)

2. Human-Centric Communication

   • Emphasizes curiosity, personal connection, and humility.
   • "Communicate like a person, admit mistakes, make it personal."
     (03:10)

3. Simplicity and Consistency

   • Focus on steady, deliberate work without unnecessary complications.
   • "Fancy fails, we win with consistency, with rhythm, with pace."
     (03:45)

4. Mission-Oriented Funding

   • "Money unlocks the mission. We are building a mission oriented business, not a passion project."
     (04:20)

5. Balanced Work-Life Ethos

   • Advocates for hard work, enjoyment, and regular rest to sustain long-term success.
   • "We embrace the work and the play. There's no point to any of this if our team isn't having fun."
     (04:55)

Isaac emphasizes that while not all values directly influence day-to-day editorial choices, they shape the overarching framework of Tangle as a news organization.

Debunking Common Myths

Isaac addresses five prevalent misconceptions about Tangle:

1. Nonpartisan and Balanced

   • Tangle aims to break media echo chambers by presenting a variety of perspectives on each topic.
   • "We cover one topic a day and publish a diverse set of opinions about that topic. That's it."
     (05:30)
   • Recognized by top media watchdogs for being balanced, factual, and nonpartisan.

2. Host's Personal Bias

   • Isaac clarifies that while he possesses personal opinions, his professional experience and moderate stance equip him to maintain Tangle's objective stance.
   • "I am a political moderate. I'm deeply skeptical of both major political parties."
     (07:10)

3. Centrism and Heterodoxy Misconceptions

   • Tangle is neither centrist nor heterodox; instead, it provides a platform for a wide range of viewpoints without subscribing to any specific ideology.
   • "Centrism is its own political ideology... Heterodoxy is an ideology too."
     (08:00)

4. 'My Take' Section Transparency

   • The "My Take" segment is designed for transparency, allowing Isaac to share his thoughts without intending to persuade listeners to agree.
   • "My Take is an act of transparency. It's me sharing exactly what I'm thinking."
     (06:25)

5. Admitting Fallibility

   • Isaac openly acknowledges that he makes mistakes and emphasizes the importance of evolving views based on new information.
   • "I'm wrong a lot. I have thick skin and I know my opinions will keep evolving."
     (07:50)

Filling the Media Gap

Isaac articulates Tangle's unique position in the media landscape:

• Objective Reporting Amid Partisanship

  • Unlike organizations that cater exclusively to specific political narratives, Tangle seeks to present a balanced array of opinions without adhering to predetermined narratives.
  • "We're not here to service a preset narrative. We cover one topic a day... with a diverse set of opinions."
    (10:00)

• Exposing, Not Coercing

  • The goal is to expand the debate and provide comprehensive exposure to various arguments, allowing listeners to form well-informed opinions.
  • "Tangle is about exposure, not coercion. It's about expanding the debate, not agreeing on the conclusion."
    (11:15)

• Handling Criticism and Maintaining Integrity

  • Isaac addresses backlash from readers who misconstrued Tangle's coverage, reinforcing the platform's commitment to balanced reporting.
  • "If you think our coverage is falling short, speak up. Address our actual writing and track record, not those of other media organizations."
    (13:45)

Engaging with the Tangle Community

Isaac urges listeners to actively participate in the Tangle community by:

• Providing Constructive Feedback

  • Encouraging dialogue that focuses on improving the platform rather than partisanship.
  • "Try to change our minds or the minds of the Tangle community rather than just score some partisan points."
    (14:30)

• Promoting Open-Mindedness

  • Advising listeners to approach differing opinions with curiosity and a willingness to understand.
  • "If something you read makes you angry, approach it with curiosity. Ask questions, inquire, open your mind."
    (15:10)

• Building Resilience

  • Highlighting the importance of perseverance in fostering a diverse and robust media ecosystem.
  • "If everyone quits the first or second time they get offended or annoyed, we'll never get there."
    (16:00)

Conclusion and Call to Action

Isaac wraps up the episode by reinforcing Tangle's mission and inviting listeners to support the platform:

• Membership and Community Growth

  • "If you believe in this mission, the best thing to do is to become a Tangle member. Tell a friend to subscribe."
    (17:50)

• Encouragement for Continued Engagement

  • "I genuinely hope you all stay along for the ride and I'm excited to see this community continue to grow."
    (18:10)

Isaac expresses gratitude towards the listeners and reiterates the importance of maintaining an open and engaging community as Tangle continues to evolve.

Notable Quotes

• On Tangle's Purpose:

  • "Tangle exists to deliver trustworthy political news."
    (02:15)

• On Personal Bias:

  • "I'm deeply skeptical of both major political parties in our country."
    (07:10)

• On 'My Take' Transparency:

  • "It's me sharing exactly what I'm thinking, trying to call some balls and strikes."
    (06:45)

• On Media Fragmentation:

  • "The fragmentation of media ecosystems... have become the easiest ways to build a profitable media business."
    (10:30)

• On Community Participation:

  • "Try to better understand the opinion you're struggling with. Ask questions, inquire, open your mind."
    (15:25)

Final Remarks

Isaac Saul's candid discussion in this episode serves to clarify Tangle's foundational principles and address the challenges of operating a nonpartisan news platform in a polarized environment. By emphasizing transparency, inclusivity, and a commitment to factual reporting, Tangle positions itself as a unique voice striving to bridge ideological divides and foster informed discourse among its audience.