Chris Dixon on How to Build Networks, Movements, and AI-Native Products
Podcast:a16z Podcast Published On: Wed Sep 10 2025 Description: Why do some consumer products explode into networks that reshape the internet, while others fade away?Today on the podcast, a16z general partners Anish Acharya and Chris Dixon take on that question. Anish invests in AI-native consumer products and the next wave of consumer tech. Chris is best known for his work in Web3 and network economies, and he’s also led some of a16z’s biggest consumer bets.Together, they cover the history and power of consumer networks, the exponential forces that shape how they grow, and what it all means for founders building in the age of AI. Timecodes:00:00 Introduction 00:43 The Power of Networks in Tech02:19 Moore’s Law, Composability, and Network Effects06:39 Building Networks: Tools vs. Networks10:49 Brand, Pricing, and Consumer Software Trends14:33 Movements, Communities, and Niche Markets20:02 Decentralization, AI, and the Open Web24:45 Platform Shifts and the Idea Maze29:55 Native vs. Skeuomorphic Technologies36:14 Open Source, Policy, and the Future of AI42:03 Closing Thoughts & Outro Resources: Find Chris on X: https://x.com/cdixonFind Anish on X: https://x.com/illscience Stay Updated: Let us know what you think: https://ratethispodcast.com/a16zFind a16z on Twitter: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zSubscribe on your favorite podcast app: https://a16z.simplecast.com/Follow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenbergPlease note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Stay Updated:Find a16z on XFind a16z on LinkedInListen to the a16z Podcast on SpotifyListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple PodcastsFollow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.