93. How to Pick the Right Service
Published on: Dec 12, 2025
Episode summary
When I choose a digital or tech service, I look for a company with a clear focus that aligns with mine. For each option, ask yourself: what s the one thing this company does really well?
Take Gmail, the most widely used email provider. If you ask what Google s "one thing" is, some people might say email - but I d argue most would say "search." For me, I see it as building the internet by means of an advertising economy. A great thing in many ways, but does nothing to make me think they are going to be the best email provider.
That s why I prefer companies with a single, obvious focus. It s a simple principle, but it s guided me well. It's no coincidence that most of my favorite security tools share this trait: Fastmail, 1Password, Little Snitch, Syncthing, and Signal.
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