All-In E45: Theranos & VC fraud risks, China bans video games, Texas SB8, Apple app store, CA fires, Rogan
Episode 45 • 9/4/2021
Elizabeth Holmes Trial and VC Fraud
- Discussion of Elizabeth Holmes trial beginning with jury selection and 12 counts of fraud
- Debate over whether this represents broader Silicon Valley "fake it till you make it" culture
- Chamath argues the problem will worsen due to increasing VC money and decreased diligence
- Sacks argues Theranos wasn't a true Silicon Valley failure as no major VCs invested
- Group discusses growing trend of firms doing minimal diligence and risks to LPs
China's Video Game Restrictions
- New law restricts under-18s from playing video games on weekdays
- Mixed reactions: Some see it as smart policy for youth development, others view it as authoritarian overreach
- Discussion of China's broader strategic objectives and competitive advantages
- Debate over government intervention vs personal freedom
Texas Abortion Law SB8
- Detailed discussion of the law's unusual enforcement mechanism through private citizens
- No exceptions for rape or incest
- Sacks explains the legal framework and predicts it will be found unconstitutional
- Discussion of corporate silence compared to previous social issues
Apple App Store Changes
- Apple allowing media apps to link to external signup pages
- Group sees this as beginning of App Store monopoly breaking down
- Discussion of 30% fee being excessive and creating industry backlash
California Wildfires
- Increasing severity and frequency of fires affecting real estate values
- Insurance companies pulling out of high-risk areas
- Discussion of potential technological solutions and climate change implications
Joe Rogan COVID Coverage
- Analysis of media coverage of Rogan getting COVID
- Discussion of ivermectin controversy and media narratives
- Broader debate about vaccination messaging and media agendas
The episode covers multiple major topics with thoughtful analysis from different perspectives, highlighting both immediate impacts and longer-term implications for technology, society, and policy.