
Mathias Döpfner: Can democracy survive without independent journalism?
Tools and Weapons with Brad SmithShow Notes
Why does the head of a global media powerhouse still give his occupation as “journalist?” Mathias Döpfner, CEO of Axel Springer SE, is driven by deep convictions about journalism’s role in safeguarding democracy – a perspective forged in his youth after viewing the American miniseries Holocaust. In this episode, Brad and Mathias dive into the worrying trends developing in democracies around the world and how technology can reduce – or amplify – the danger. They discuss how new business models can strengthen digital journalism, their shared belief in the power of truth, and what he believes is the one precondition for great quality journalism.
More from Tools and Weapons with Brad Smith
Brad Smith sits down with Doreen Bogdan, Secretary-General of the International Telecommunication Union, to discuss what it will take to connect the 2.2 billion people still offline. They explore how connectivity, AI, and global partnerships can expand opportunity, strengthen resilience, and help ensure the next generation of technology benefits more people.
Brad Smith sits down with former UK Prime Minister Rishi Sunak to discuss what some are calling the “Mythos Moment” for AI. They explore how leaders can respond as technology moves faster than the systems designed to govern it.
Juan Lavista Ferres, Microsoft Chief Data Scientist and Director of the AI for Good Lab, breaks down the latest AI diffusion data, revealing where adoption is accelerating, where gaps remain, and what it means for the global economy.
LinkedIn CEO Ryan Roslansky joins Brad Smith to discuss his new book, Open to Work, about how AI is reshaping work, which skills matter most, and how to turn career uncertainty into practical opportunity.
Deputy Fire Chief Zachary Wells and UC San Diego professor Neal Driscoll explain how ALERTCalifornia uses cameras, cloud computing, and AI to detect wildfires early and help firefighters respond faster.