Danny Crichton, a Fellow at the Manhattan Institute, Head of Editorial at Lux Capital, and former Managing Editor at TechCrunch, joins Erik Torenberg to discuss the evolution of TechCrunch+, alternative business models, strategic investments in media, and tips for building a tech media company.
This show is produced by Turpentine: a network of podcasts, newsletters, and more, covering technology, business, and culture — all from the perspective of industry insiders and experts. We’re launching new shows every week, and we’re looking for industry-leading sponsors — if you think that might be you and your company, email us at erik@turpentine.co.
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LINKS:
Danny Crichton: https://www.dannycrichton.com/
Lux Capital: https://www.luxcapital.com/securities
TechCrunch: https://techcrunch.com/
TechCrunch+: https://techcrunch.com/techcrunchplus/
X/ TWITTER:
@eriktorenberg (Erik)
@DannyCrichton (Danny)
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TIMESTAMPS:
(00:00) Intro
(00:28) Evolution of TechCrunch+
(01:27) Building a new product, ExtraCrunch
(04:50) Challenges of subscription media
(06:26) Identifying the core audience
(08:57) Exploring alternative business models in media
(15:26) Sponsor: Turpentine
(16:07) History of TechCrunch
(22:00) What worked and what didn't for TechCrunch
(29:20) Building a significant tech media company
(30:12) Strategies for success
(31:03) The need of focus formula
(35:32) Challenges of monetizing journalism
(37:50) Rethinking media products
(51:21) Potential of vertical media
(56:30) Wrap
The Future of Tech Media with Danny Crichton of Lux Capital