In an era defined by constant connectivity, many of us are feeling more disconnected than ever. The ways we relate to one another have been reshaped by technology—and the effects are both liberating and disorienting. This session brings together cultural thinkers, technologists, and relationship experts for a conversation on how digital life is transforming intimacy, identity, community, and belonging. Shreya Murthy and Joy Tao, the co-founders of the social event–planning app Partiful, and Atlantic staff writer Ellen Cushing will examine the value of in-person connection and how technology can help bring people together in an increasingly digital world, led by a managing editor at The Atlantic, Bhumika Tharoor. Then, Spencer Rascoff, the CEO of Match Group, joins Atlantic staff writer Annie Lowrey for a discussion on modern love in the age of the algorithm. What does it mean to be truly connected in the 21st century?
This session will also feature a conversation produced by our underwriter Scout Motors. The president and CEO of Scout Motors, Scott Keogh, joins The Atlantic’s CEO, Nicholas Thompson, to explore how our vehicles can help ensure innovation enables connection instead of replacing it, keeping us in contact on the road and off the grid while building community with one another and the land around us.
0:00 Molly Cox Welcoming Remarks
1:26 The New Gathering Gap: When Social Media Replaces Social Life
29:17 Revitalizing an American Icon to Drive Community and Connection*
40:59 Sealing Connection: Modern Love in the Age of the Algorithm
Speakers include:
Scott Keogh*, President and CEO, Scout Motors
Shreya Murthy, Co-founder and CEO, Partiful
Joy Tao, Co-founder and CTO, Partiful
Spencer Rascoff, CEO, Match Group
Ellen Cushing, Staff Writer, The Atlantic
Annie Lowrey, Staff Writer, The Atlantic
Bhumika Tharoor, Managing Editor, The Atlantic
Nicholas Thompson, CEO, The Atlantic
*This session is produced by our underwriter and is independent of The Atlantic’s editorial staff.
The Atlantic Festival brings the brand’s essential journalism to life on stage through dynamic conversations, exclusive screenings, and engaging performances. Expect rigorous dialogue with influential voices in politics, culture, business, technology, and media—plus opportunities to connect with other curious, thoughtful attendees.
The 2025 lineup includes Scott Galloway, Richard Ayoade with David Letterman, H.R. McMaster, Clara Wu Tsai, Arvind Krishna, Jennifer Doudna, Monica Lewinsky, Catherine Coleman Flowers, Bryan Stevenson, Dr. Becky Kennedy, and many more. Atlantic journalists including Jeffrey Goldberg, Jemele Hill, Vann Newkirk, and Sophie Gilbert will moderate and lead discussions.
Explore the full event: https://www.theatlantic.com/theatlanticfestival/