In the ever-evolving landscape of technology news, even seasoned reporters acknowledge a certain degree of manufactured reality. The conventional, seemingly objective reporting style can sometimes obscure more than it reveals. Seeking a remedy to this, Eric Newcomer, alongside fellow reporters Tom Dotan and Katie Benner, initiated a private Signal chat. Their aim? To dissect the merits of tech stories and analyze the sourcing behind their narratives. This meta-analysis, exploring the “how” and “why” of tech journalism, is insightful but not necessarily for public consumption in written form. However, it’s perfect for the more conversational and explorative medium of a podcast.
Thus, “Dead Cat” was born. Hosted by Eric Newcomer, and featuring Tom Dotan from Insider (formerly of The Information’s 411 podcast) and regular guest Katie Benner of The New York Times, “Dead Cat” podcast ventures into the heart of Silicon Valley and its media coverage. This isn’t your typical tech podcast filled with product pitches and self-promotion. Instead, “Dead Cat” offers a candid, behind-the-scenes look at how tech stories are shaped, perceived, and ultimately, impact our understanding of the industry.
Episode 1: Parker Conrad of Rippling on Media-VC Symbiosis
The inaugural episode of “Dead Cat” features an engaging conversation with Parker Conrad, CEO of Rippling. Conrad, known for his experiences with Zenefits, a company that fascinated Newcomer, Dotan, and Benner, provides a unique perspective on Silicon Valley. The Zenefits saga, marked by rapid growth and subsequent challenges, became a focal point for media scrutiny, including pieces like Newcomer’s “Zenefits Was the Perfect Startup. Then It Self-Disrupted” and Rolfe Winkler’s sensational Wall Street Journal headline “Zenefits Once Told Employees: No Sex in Stairwells.”
Conrad’s journey through the startup crucible has equipped him with a battle-hardened viewpoint on the dynamics of Silicon Valley. In this episode, he delves into what he perceives as a “parasitic media-VC symbiosis,” a critical examination of the intertwined relationships between venture capitalists and the media that covers them. This discussion aligns perfectly with the “Dead Cat” podcast’s mission: to dissect the underlying narratives and power structures within the tech world.
Newcomer, reflecting on his “firsts,” connects this podcast launch to his initial newsletter broadside against Sequoia, highlighting the podcast’s intention to question established norms. Just as the newsletter challenged Sequoia’s political paradox, “Dead Cat” podcast aims to probe the premise of VCs as sole custodians of Silicon Valley’s direction.
“Dead Cat” podcast promises to be a compelling listen for anyone interested in a more profound understanding of Silicon Valley, tech journalism, and the forces that shape the industry’s narrative. Tune in to the first episode with Parker Conrad to begin this insightful journey.
Introducing Dead Cat 💀🐱🎙 A podcast about Silicon Valley with @EricNewcomer@cityofthetown and regular guest @ktbenner For our first episode, we talk with @parkerconrad Spotify open.spotify.com/episode/01aWQG… Apple podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/dea… Anchor anchor.fm/dead-cat-podca…
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