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Ben Thompson
Author/Founder of Stratechery
Ben Thompson is the founder and author of Stratechery, a prominent blog that analyzes the strategy and business aspects of technology and its societal impact. He started Stratechery in 2013, and it has since become a highly influential platform, often recommended by major publications like The New York Times for its insightful commentary on the tech industry.13
Background and Career
Ben Thompson has a diverse professional background in technology and business. He previously worked at Microsoft as a Product Manager and Business Development Manager for the Windows App Team, and also held a position at Automattic, the company behind WordPress.com. Additionally, he interned at Apple during his studies.23
He holds an MBA from the Kellogg School of Management, where he focused on strategy and marketing, and a Master of Engineering Management from Northwestern University, emphasizing design and innovation.3
Stratechery
Stratechery began as a side project for Thompson and has evolved into a full-time venture since 2014. The site features a mix of free weekly articles and a subscription-based daily update service. It attracts a global audience, including tech executives, investors, and enthusiasts, who seek to understand the complexities of the tech landscape.23
Thompson's writing is characterized by its depth and clarity, often addressing the intersection of technology and business strategy, which he believes is crucial for understanding contemporary market dynamics. His commitment to independent analysis is reflected in his business model, which relies primarily on subscriber support rather than advertising or consulting.34
Current Focus
Based in Taipei, Taiwan, Ben Thompson continues to produce content for Stratechery, providing insights into major tech companies and trends. He emphasizes the importance of understanding the strategic decisions behind technology products and their broader implications for society.135
Highlights
This is why 5-6 player Catan is a legitimately great game while traditional Catan is appropriately derided as pretty mid. Being able to build every turn completely changes the dynamic.
Made this point on the most recent @sharptechpod