Episode 12: Snapchat

This episode of the "Acquired" podcast analyzes Facebook's failed $3 billion acquisition bid for Snapchat in 2013. The hosts detail Snapchat's unconventional origin story, highlighting its initial struggles and unexpected growth fueled by word-of-mouth among high school students. They then discuss the failed acquisition, exploring the potential outcomes had Facebook succeeded, contrasting Snapchat's current anti-Facebook brand advertising strategy with Facebook's data-driven approach. The hosts conclude by grading Mark Zuckerberg's decision to walk away from the deal, with differing opinions on whether it was a wise strategic move. A key takeaway is the importance of early equity discussions among co-founders and the power of network effects in building a successful consumer-facing company.