New TNW Backstage podcast explores privacy tensions and Meta’s model

Have you heard of the privacy paradox? It’s the contradiction between our claims to care about privacy — and our refusal to protect it.

The paradox came to mind while working on the debut episode of our brand-new podcast: TNW Backstage.

The show takes you behind the scenes of TNW Conference — and the tech shaping our world. Our first episode features a standout guest: Ron de Jesus, the world’s first Field Chief Privacy Officer.

The conversation explores the evolution of privacy threats. One hot topic is Meta’s controversial “pay or consent” model, which gives users a stark choice: allow ad-tracking or go ad-free for a fee.

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When we spoke to Ron last year, the strategy was drawing fire from regulators, civil society groups, and nonprofits. But did that scare users away?

Not really. Meta’s user base has continued growing — and the company is doubling down on the model.  It’s a prime example of the privacy paradox in action.

In TNW Backstage, we dig into these tensions and other big privacy issues. We also discuss how they’re shaping the agenda for this year’s TNW Conference.

To celebrate the podcast’s launch, we’re offering an exclusive discount on tickets for the event, which takes place on June 19 and 20. Tune in to TNW Backstage via the media player below to unlock the offer.

Thanks for reading — and now, for listening too.