Coinbase and Spotify are both grappling with political questions, which is something all companies should prepare for.
Podcast Apps Banned in China, Podcast Censorship, Zoom Suspends U.S.-based Chinese Activist
Two podcasts apps were banned in China; Apple has to follow local law, but how much censorship is Apple doing itself? Then Zoom demonstrates it can’t be trusted.
Joe Rogan and Spotify, Luminary and Howard Stern, Apple’s Response
Joe Rogan is exclusive to Spotify, which suggests the streaming service realizes it needs to steal share to get its Aggregation flywheel spinning.
Dithering and Open Versus Free
Announcing the new Dithering podcast, and why it is important to fight for the open ecosystem that Spotify is trying to aggregate.
Announcing Dithering, An Interview with John Gruber (not about Apple)
Announcing Dithering, a new podcast from John Gruber and myself. Then, and interview with Gruber about being an independent writer on the Internet, covering Apple’s rise, and Dithering.
The Rationale Behind the Daily Update Podcast, Podcasts and Email, Spotify and the Three Bens
An explanation of the strategy undergirding the Daily Update Podcast, how the implementation fits into that strategy, and how Spotify’s podcast strategy impacts Stratechery’s approach.
The Daily Update Podcast
Stratechery is launching a new feature for subscribers: The Daily Update, as a podcast. Now you can read or listen to every post on Stratechery.
Spotify Earnings, Podcasts and Lifetime Value, The Ringer Acquisition
Spotify’s mixed earnings, why podcasts are uniquely valuable to the company, and where The Ringer fits in.
Casper Files for IPO, Casper’s Business, Spotify Ad Targeting
Casper is a tech-enabled company, but so are its many competitors. Trying to win with brand is difficult in a market defined by infrequent purchases. Spotify, meanwhile, is seeking to expand the podcasting market beyond companies like Casper.
Netflix Earnings; Reasons for Concern, and Optimism; Apple Reportedly Pursuing Exclusive Podcasts
Netflix’s earnings are worrisome, but for predictable reasons; ultimately, the company remains in a strong position. Then, Apple’s rumored move into exclusive podcasts doesn’t make sense and is in fact good for Spotify.