The Common Ills: Mike Moe: Why I'm Sticking with OZY

Thursday, August 11, 2022

Mike Moe: Why I'm Sticking with OZY

Aug 11, 2022

TO THE OZY COMMUNITY

“The only constant is change” is an ancient Greek proverb that is certainly playing out in Technicolor. Change is happening. The world is moving at an accelerated pace. What might have seemed impossible a few years ago is now being created by innovators around the planet — and even beyond the planet.

I’ve been a reader, fan, investor and board member of OZY since its beginning, nearly 10 years ago. OZY’s focus on “the new and next” had me at “hello.” I’ve been delighted by the success OZY has had through its fresh approach of identifying the “stars of tomorrow,” its podcasts, TV shows and OZY Fest, a world-class event since its inception.

The past year has been extremely challenging due to some self-inflicted wounds, which were compounded by the breathless hysteria of those who may not have been so keen on OZY’s success.

Lessons from the Valley

I’ve been fortunate to have lived and worked in Silicon Valley for 25 years before being part of the “Texodus” movement last summer. There are many lessons from watching the game-changing businesses that symbolize the Valley, but two stick in my mind:

1) “The overnight successes take a hell of a long time,” to paraphrase Steve Jobs; and

2) Many wildly successful businesses have gone through a near-death experience.

What doesn’t kill you makes you stronger. And it’s clear to me that OZY is very much alive and has tremendous momentum. Our top-quality newsletters reach more than 10 million people every month. Upcoming original new TV series include “Sneaker Fiends,” “Two Weeks Notice,” and “HBCU Med.” New podcasts and the OZY Genius Awards return this fall. And I’m particularly excited about participating in OZY Fest next year in Miami, the beloved hometown of OZY founder Carlos Watson.

Breaking the mold

Today’s media landscape suffers from a pandemic of “infobesity”; we are starving for smart, original insight. OZY is providing a window into the future that doesn’t exist anywhere else. That’s why I agreed to stick by OZY, and become the Chair of the Board.

OZY has always been at its best when you, our readers and supporters, have contributed to the conversation, offering story ideas, topics of interest and valuable feedback about how we can improve upon our mission. I know Carlos and his team would love your feedback, so do write in with suggestions and ideas.

Thank you for your trust. We won’t let you down.

Regards,

Michael Moe, Chair of the Board

ABOUT OZY

OZY is a diverse, global and forward-looking media and entertainment company focused on “the New and the Next.” OZY creates space for fresh perspectives, and offers new takes on everything from news and culture to technology, business, learning and entertainment.