In this episode of Future Perfect Book Club, Joel and Ron dive into Careless People: The Story of Where I Used to Work by Sarah Wynn Williams-a memoir chronicling the author’s time at Facebook (now Meta). Recorded in person with producer Jess, the hosts wrestle with the challenges of critiquing a memoir while unpacking the broader societal and ethical questions the book raises. Their conversation moves beyond the author’s personal journey to examine idealism versus realism in tech, the complicity of individuals within powerful systems, and the corrosive effects of unchecked corporate influence on society and personal agency.

The hosts share candid reactions to the book, discuss the lack of accountability in Williams’ narrative, and reflect on how tech platforms have shifted from fostering genuine connections to fueling profit and manipulation. They also introduce a new segment, “A Book We Don’t Want You to Read,” taking aim at the recent abundance discourse.

Ultimately, both Joel and Ron give Careless People a thumbs down, suggesting listeners can skip the book and still engage deeply with the urgent issues it surfaces.

Plus, a preview of the next pick: Meet Me by the Fountain: An Inside History of the Mall by Alexandra Lang. Read along and join the conversation on Blue Sky or at Future Perfect Book Club online!

00:00 Introduction to Future Perfect Book Club