
Pivot
785 episodes — Page 7 of 16
Ep 444Whitney Wolfe Herd at Code 2023
Bumble Founder and CEO Whitney Wolfe Herd speaks with CNBC Correspondent Julia Boorstin at Code 2023. They discuss the power of AI, and whether it could play the role of a digital matchmaker. Recorded on September 26th in Los Angeles. To join the waitlist for the 2024 Code Conference, visit https://voxmediaevents.com/code2024. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 443Newsom's Senate Pick, SCOTUS Takes on Social Media, and Guest New York Times Pitchbot
Kara and Scott discuss California Governor Gavin Newsom's choice of Laphonza Butler for Dianne Feinstein's senate seat, and whether Kevin McCarthy could be ousted as Speaker of the House. Plus, the Supreme Court adds two cases to the docket that could have a major impact on the future of social media. Our Friend of Pivot is New York Times Pitchbot, who stops by to talk about his popular Twitter account, and how he captures the media zeitgeist with his headlines and hot takes. Follow New York Times Pitchbot at @DougJBalloon Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 442Byron Allen at Code 2023
Allen Media Group Founder, Chairman and CEO Byron Allen speaks with CNBC Correspondent Julia Boorstin at Code 2023. They discuss his bid to buy ABC, the use of AI in media, and his multiple lawsuits against McDonald's. Recorded on September 26th in Los Angeles. To join the waitlist for the 2024 Code Conference, visit https://voxmediaevents.com/code2024. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 441Code Drama, WGA Revisited, and The Taylor Swift Effect
After a headline-making Code Conference, Kara discusses her interview with Yoel Roth, the former head of trust and safety at Twitter, and also talks about X CEO Linda Yaccarino's interview with CNBC Correspondent Julia Boorstin. Then, Scott addresses his critics and explains what he got wrong about the Writers Strike, and what he still thinks he got right. Plus, how Travis Kelce is seemingly experiencing the Taylor Swift effect. Check out Kara's interview with Yoel Roth, former head of trust and safety at Twitter, and CNBC Correspondent Julia Boorstin's interview with X CEO Linda Yaccarino in the 'On with Kara Swisher' feed. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 440Writers Strike Deal, Betting Against the FTC, and Guest Mathias Döpfner
Kara and Scott discuss the tentative deal between Hollywood writers and studios, and what it means for the future of the industry. They also talk about GOP attacks on misinformation researchers, as well as the hedge fund making billions betting against FTC Chair Lina Khan. Friend of Pivot Mathias Döpfner stops by to talk about the future of media and his new book The Trade Trap: How to Stop Doing Business with Dictators. And be sure to check out Scott's recent conversation with Mathias on The Prof G Pod. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 439Rupert, Russell, and a Looming Shutdown
As Rupert Murdoch announces his retirement, Kara and Scott discuss the future of the media mogul's empire and his legacy. They also react to the Russell Brand controversy, and Elon's plan for a Twitter paywall. Then, there's chaos in Congress as a shutdown approaches, so why is everyone talking about the Senate dress code? Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 438Strike Winners & Losers, Disney's ABC Decision, and Guest Benyamin Cohen
Kara and Scott discuss the Jann Wenner controversy, and the new management term "feedforward." And as the "summer of strikes" marches into the fall, they talk about the State of the Unions. Then, is Disney selling off ABC? And would that be the end of linear television? Our Friend of Pivot is Benyamin Cohen, the author of, "The Einstein Effect: How the World's Favorite Genius Got into Our Cars, Our Bathrooms, and Our Minds," who also happens to be the man behind the official Albert Einstein accounts on social media. You can follow Benyamin at @benyamincohen and Albert Einstein at @alberteinstein. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 437AI Summit, U.S. v. Google, and Drew Barrymore Backlash
Kara and Scott discuss the new openings for the greatest jobs in journalism – Taylor Swift and Beyoncé reporters. They also unpack Apple's underwhelming product launch and the backlash Drew Barrymore is facing after bringing her show back during the strikes. Then, was the big tech AI summit a big success? And who will be the winners and losers as Google's landmark antitrust trial gets underway? Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 436Inside Elon’s New Bio, A.I. Goes to Washington and Guest Kristi Coulter
Kara and Scott dish on their big date night at the U.S. Open. They also preview A.I.'s big week on Capitol Hill before Kara gives her no-holds-barred review of Walter Isaacson’s Elon Musk biography. Our Friend of Pivot is former Amazon employee Kristi Coulter, who's pulling back the curtain on tech company culture in her new book, "Exit Interview: The Life and Death of My Ambitious Career." You can follow Kristi at @kristicccoulter. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 435Cable Wars, FTC vs. Amazon, and Elon vs. the ADL
Scott is back! He and Kara waste no time digging into Charter vs. Disney and the FTC’s possible Amazon suit. Our Friend of Pivot is CEO and National Chair of the Anti-Defamation League, Jonathan Greenblatt. He shares his thoughts on being on the receiving end of Elon Musk's latest tweetstorm. You can follow Jonathan at @JGreenblattADL. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Land of the Giants: How Tesla Became the Elon Musk Co.
Not many people can name the original founders of Tesla. So how did two guys who wanted to build an electric car create a company synonymous with Elon Musk? Listen to more from Land of the Giants here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 434The Apple Vision Pro, Being Present, and Scott’s Hair
Scott Free August is over, welcome to Scottember! As we head into the holiday weekend, Kara and Scott open the listener mail bag to answer questions about whether we’ve hit peak Apple, how to stay present with kids, and what to do when you’re working for a company whose policies don't match your morals. Plus, do Apple Vision Pros make you look rich?! And when was Scott's last good hair day? Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 433Electric Vehicles, Tech Giant Land Grab and Co-Host Joanna Stern
Wall Street Journal columnist Joanna Stern is Kara's co-host as Scott-free August comes to an end. They explore how Trump's mugshot is spawning merch from the right and the left, and what to expect from the upcoming iPhone 15. Then, Joanna's investigation into the best EVs on the market and why a group of Silicon Valley elite is buying up land in northern California. Our Friend of Pivot is Professor Peter Turchin, author of "End Times: Elites, Counter-Elites, and the Path of Political Disintegration." He explains why the U.S. is in a state of social upheaval and sees a few paths that could get us out of it. You can follow Joanna at @JoannaStern and read her column at WSJ.com. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 432GOP Debate, AI in Medicine and the Right Wing's New Favorite Song with Co-Hosts Louie Swisher and Dr. Jeffrey Swisher
All in the family! Kara's son Louie Swisher and her brother Dr. Jeffrey Swisher join her to co-host. The trio discuss Ronan Farrow's new reporting on Elon Musk and Oliver Anthony's hit song "Rich Men North of Richmond." Then, they survey the current GOP primary field and discuss the pros and cons of AI in medicine. You can follow Jeff on Twitter at @jeffreyswisher. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 431The Future of Threads, Biotech, and Education
A minor break in Scott-Free August (because Scott misses you all): Kara and Scott open the listener mail bag to answer your questions about Instagram Threads, biotech, and education. Stick around to hear a listener call in from a cornfield, and about the origins of the Kara and Scott relationship. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 430Trump Indictments, Blind Side Drama, and Co-Host Don Lemon
Journalist and anchor Don Lemon joins Kara for his first major conversation about leaving CNN, what he's been doing since, and what he's planning to do next. He also chats with Kara about the Trump indictments, The Blind Side family's controversy, and more. You can follow Don at @donlemonofficial. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 429Maui Fires, the Hollywood Strikes, and Co-Host George Hahn
George Hahn is back to join Kara as co-host! They discuss the latest in the Zuckerberg v. Musk cage match, Sam Bankman-Fried reporting to jail, and Donald Trump’s looming fourth indictment. Then, the Maui wildfire is now the deadliest US wildfire in more than a century, and the Writers’ Guild went back to the table with producers. Then, we’re joined by co-creator of the RuPublicans, Craig DeForest. You can follow the RuPublicans at @rupublicans on Instagram. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 428Twitter’s Trump Warrant, and An Abortion Rights Win in Ohio with Co-Host Will Hurd
Republican presidential candidate joins Will Hurd joins Kara as co-host to discuss aging politicians, an FEC efforts to regulate AI in campaign ads, and of course, Barbie. Then, they talk about what the Ohio special election means for the GOP's anti-abortion stance, and whether Trump's legal woes can clear a path for other Republican candidates. You can find Will Hurd on Twitter at @WillHurd. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 427Tech Money in Politics, SBF, and Billion-Dollar Barbie with Co-Host Teddy Schleifer
Puck's Teddy Schleifer is Kara's co-host, chatting about Sam Bankman-Fried’s legal woes, Barbie hitting $1 billion, and the Musk v. Zuckerberg cage fight. Then, Donald Trump’s response to his latest indictment, and the money behind the presidential candidates. Then we’re joined by Friend of Pivot and political pollster, Frank Luntz to make sense of the latest poll numbers on the 2024 election. You can follow Teddy at @teddyschleifer, and read his work at Puck.News. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 426Trump's Latest Indictment, Strike Update, and Co-Host Savannah Guthrie
We’re starting off Scott Free August strong with TODAY co-host Savannah Guthrie. Kara and Savannah give us a look behind the scenes at how they've prepared for and pulled off some of their most notable interviews, including sitdowns with President Trump, Kamala Harris, Mark Zuckerberg, and more. Also: X will now let users hide their verified checkmarks, Hollywood writers and sudio representatives are expected to meet, and President Trump’s third criminal case of the year. You can find Savannah co-anchoring TODAY on NBC. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 425Elon Musk’s Outer Space, Scott-Free August Preview, and Guest Ian Rogers
Kara and Scott discuss the comeback of the Chevy Bolt, and Scott’s thoughts on Barbie. Also, what should the government do about the dominance of the Starlink? We preview the guest hosts and topics coming up in Scott-Free August. Plus, we talk crypto with Friend of Pivot and Ledger’s Chief Experience Officer, Ian Rogers. You can find Ian on Twitter at @iancr. Leave us questions and comments at 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 424Big Tech Earnings, College Admissions Controversies, and UFOs
Kara and Scott talk about the latest interest rate hike, Mitch McConnell’s health scare, and whether the aliens are finally here or not. Plus, it’s earnings season, and the AI effect is making money moves for Big Tech. Then, should colleges do away with legacy admissions? And a listener question about the future of EV charging. We’ve got some more listener mail episodes coming your way soon, so send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 423The X Factor, AI Guardrails, and a Barbenheimer Post-Mortem
Kara and Scott discuss a huge weekend at the box office, and Jeff Bezos' renewed interest in The Washington Post. Plus, WTF is Elon doing with his Twitter re-brand? Also, Big Tech agrees to some AI safety commitments, will they be enough? Friend of Pivot Alondra Nelson led the development of the Biden Administration's Blueprint for an AI Bill of Rights, she joins us to discuss. You can find Alondra on Twitter…or X…at @alondra. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 422Barbenheimer, AI in the Newsroom, and Scott Doubles Down
Kara's got the latest from the Barbie premiere, where YES she saw Mr and Mrs. Gaetz. Scott has some more thoughts on who the real enemy is in the Hollywood strikes (and it's not him!) The government has Big Tech in its crosshairs with the latest proposed M&A guidelines, Google pitches an AI news writing product, and Scott really does think Trump will drop out. But above all, stick around for the listener mail from 10-year-old Henry, who's ready to make some money on the stock market. We’ve got some more listener mail episodes coming your way soon, so send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 421Bob Iger’s Rough Ride, Record-Breaking Heat Waves and Guest Ashlee Vance
Kara and Scott discuss Tesla’s Cybertruck, Tucker Carlson’s new media company, and a drop in Threads engagement. Also, Bob One’s contract has been extended after a rough first year, and SAG-AFTRA President Fran Drescher has him in her crosshairs. Plus, Earth is experiencing its hottest days on record. What does that mean for politics and infrastructure? Then we’re joined by Friend of Pivot Ashlee Vance to talk all things space and Elon Musk. You can find Ashlee on Twitter at @ashleevance and can buy his book here. We’ve got some more listener mail episodes coming your way soon, so send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 420Zuck's Second Chance, Lina Khan's Losing Streak, and More
Kara and Scott discuss actors joining writers on the picket line, and Ticketmaster vs. Taylor Swift fans, again.* Also, Threads hit 100 million users in just five days, does its success give Mark Zuckerberg a chance to atone for the sins of his other products? Or will Elon Musk just drag him down into a *checks notes* “literal dick measuring contest.” Plus, the FTC is on an antitrust losing streak, and a listener disagrees with Kara on nuclear energy. You can listen to Kara’s interview with Jake Tapper here. We’ve got some more listener mail episodes coming your way soon, so send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. *Ticketmaster's statement re: Taylor Swift ticketing in France: The onsale date and time for Taylor Swift | The Eras Tour in France is being rescheduled and tickets are still available. This sale was disrupted by an issue with a third-party provider and they are working to resolve this matter as soon as possible. As soon as we saw fans experiencing issues, queues were paused. All codes that were not used to purchase tickets today will remain valid. Fans previously selected to participate in the onsale will be notified directly of the new onsale date and time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 419Tesla’s Chargers, The Writers’ Strike, and What Global Policies Will Save the World
Will Tesla’s Charging network provoke the FTC? Can writers take control of their intellectual property? Can our electrical infrastructure support EV expansion? And what global policies could help us prevent technological disaster? Kara and Scott open the listener mailbag…and find Scott a new nickname in the process. We’ve got some more listener mail episodes coming your way soon, so send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 418Meta’s Threads, and A Major First Amendment Ruling
Kara and Scott discuss Apple hitting a $3 trillion valuation, China announcing export restrictions on minerals used in the production of semiconductors, and GQ pulling an article critiquing David Zaslav. Also: Meta’s Twitter competitor, Threads is officially here and racking in the downloads. A certain someone isn’t so happy about that. Plus, a federal judge issued a preliminary injunction to prohibit certain communications between the Biden administration and social media sites. And a listener question on going from academia to the corporate world. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The Economy, the Media, and Fatherhood — with Kai Ryssdal
Kai Ryssdal, the host and senior editor of Marketplace, joins Scott to discuss the state of the economy and his take on the media. We also learn how Kai approaches fatherhood and his thoughts on being a good partner. Follow Kai on Twitter, @kairyssdal. Scott opens by discussing masculinity, his time at Cannes, and the fact that the number of billionaires in the world has increased five-fold over the past two decades. Listen to more from The Prof G Pod here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 417Psychedelics in Silicon Valley, and Restrictions on AI Chip Exports
Donald Trump may soon return to Twitter, new F1 team owners, and Wheel of Fortune’s Vanna White wants a raise. Then, psychedelics have a hold on tech industry culture, and the US is considering restrictions on exports of AI chip to China. Plus, a listener question on how local governments can retain talent. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or via Yappa, at nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 416Rebellion in Russia, Titan Fallout, and Guest Jason Del Rey
Breaking news: Kara Swisher will not referee the cage match between Elon Musk and Mark Zuckerberg. Also, SpaceX is looking to up its valuation, and Meta wants to shut down access to news in Canada. And this weekend’s insurrection in Russia revealed how unequipped social media is to cover breaking news. Plus, an investigation into the Titan submersible implosion may lead to new regulations. Will the same happen for space travel? Then we’re joined by Friend of Pivot, Jason Del Rey on the decades-long battle between Walmart and Amazon. You can find Jason on Twitter at @DelRey, and you can buy “Winner Sells All: Amazon, Walmart, and the Battle for Our Wallets,” here. We’ve got some listener mail episodes coming your way soon, so send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 415Tesla’s Rising Value, Meta’s AI, and Twitter’s Ad Problem
Kara and Scott are live at Cannes! They discuss Tesla’s market value going up a quarter of a trillion dollars, and Meta letting advertisers know how it’s competing in the AI space. Plus, Twitter’s Head of Ad Sales attended Cannes to assure brands their ads wouldn’t appear near all the bad stuff, and meanwhile GLAAD named Twitter the most dangerous platform for LGBTQ+ people. Then, some questions from the audience. We’ve got some listener mail episodes coming your way soon, so send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 414Google’s Sundar Pichai Talks Seach, AI, and Dancing with Microsoft
Nilay Patel, editor in chief of The Verge, talks to Sundar Pichai, the CEO of Google and Alphabet about what he thinks of the future of search, and his vision for Google.Listen to more from Nilay in the feed of Decoder with Nilay Patel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 413E.U. Tech Regulation, Bud Light Sales, and Kara Tries the Apple Vision Pro
Kara has a pretty rave review of Apple's Vision Pro, but can she sell Scott on trying it out? Also, E.U is on a tear of technology regulation, including antitrust charges for Google over its advertising practices, and regulation for AI. Plus, Bud Light sales are in a slump following the brand’s handling of the Dylan Mulvaney controversy. And a listener question on what Kara and Scott would do if they were in Linda Yaccarino’s shoes. We’ve got some listener mail episodes coming your way soon, so send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 412Trump Heads to Court (Again), Tesla's Autopilot Danger, and Guest Jennifer Pahlka
Trump Heads to Court (Again), Tesla's Autopilot Danger, and Guest Jennifer Pahlka Kara and Scott talk about George Soros' succession plan, Twitter’s new “odd couple,” and Trump's latest legal battle over classified documents. Then Friend of Pivot Jennifer Pahlka stops by to talk about her critically-acclaimed new book, Recoding America: Why Government Is Failing in the Digital Age and How We Can Do Better. Send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. You can follow Jennifer at @pahlkadot and Recoding America is available here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 411PGA Tour's Mysterious Merger, Instagram's Pedophile Problem
The SEC is coming for crypto’s biggest players, Fox News says Tucker Carlson broke his contract with a new Twitter show, and Chris Licht is out at CNN. Then, Instagram’s algorithms are promoting accounts sharing child sexual abuse material, and the PGA Tour announced a merger with Saudi-backed LIV Golf. Plus, a listener question on Reddit charging for access to its API. Send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 410Apple's Vision Pro, Chris Licht Outlook, and Friend of Pivot Ben Terris
The Directors Guild avoids a strike, Amazon may join the wireless market, and tech companies prepare for 2024 by acting like it's 2020. Also, Apple finally unveils its headset. Kara and Scott talk about the weird world of Washington with Friend of Pivot Ben Terris, author of "The Big Break: The Gamblers, Party Animals, and True Believers Trying to Win in Washington While America Loses Its Mind." Find The Big Break here. Send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 409Biden Wins the Debt Deal, and AI Extinction
Elizabeth Holmes goes to prison, the Sackler family escapes liability, and Twitter's valuation drops even lower. Also, Congress votes to raise the debt ceiling, but did Speaker McCarthy get floored? Leading AI scientists and entrepreneurs warn of possible extinction. Kara and Scott weigh the odds. Send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
How worried—or excited—should we be about AI? Recode Media with Peter Kafka
AI is amazing… or terrifying, depending on who you ask. This is a technology that elicits strong, almost existential reactions. So, as a Memorial Day special, we're running an episode of Recode Media with Peter Kafka that digs into the giant ambitions and enormous concerns people have about the very same tech. First up: Joshua Browder (@jbrowder1), a Stanford computer science dropout who tried to get an AI lawyer into court. Then: Microsoft's CTO Kevin Scott (@kevin_scott) pitches a bright AI future. Plus: hype-deflator, cognitive scientist and author Gary Marcus (@GaryMarcus) believes in AI, but he thinks the giants of Silicon Valley are scaling flawed technology now—with potentially dangerous consequences. Subscribe for free to Recode Media to make sure you get the whole series: https://bit.ly/3IOpWuB Pivot will return on Friday! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 408The Twitter DeSaster and the Surgeon General’s Social Media Warning
Meta will sell Giphy in an antitrust loss, and the man who ran a Twitter account tracking Elon Musk’s private jet is now tracking Ron Desantis. Also, the latest in the culture wars: A Florida school has limited access to Amanda Gorman’s poetry, and Target will remove some Pride merch after a backlash. Plus, Governor Ron DeSantis announced his presidential run on Twitter Spaces… and it didn’t go quite as planned. And the Surgeon General warns that social media may be harmful to young users. Then, a listener question on HBO Max rebranding to Max. Send us your questions and tell us what Pivot’s rebrand should be! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 407Disney’s Billion Dollar Punch, AppGPT, and Guest Chasten Buttigieg
The EU deals Meta a record-breaking fine, Jeffrey Epstein reportedly attempted to blackmail Bill Gates, and the debt ceiling is looming closer. Also, Disney is cancelling plans to build a complex in Florida. Kara and Scott discuss ChatGPT and Apple’s AI efforts. Friend of Pivot Chasten Buttigieg joins to discuss coming of age as a young gay man in the Midwest, and the continuing challenges to LGBTQ life in America. You can find @Chasten on Twitter, and “I Have Something to Tell You: For Young Adults” here. Send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 406Supreme Court Saves Social Media, Montana Bans TikTok, and Sam Altman Wants AI Regulation
EU regulators say 'game on' for the Microsoft-Activision deal, WeWork's CEO is stepping down, and the latest call for AI regulation is coming from inside the house. Kara and Scott discuss the weak plan to ban TikTok in Montana. And Elon Musk continues to Elon Musk, saying he’s willing to lose money to say what he wants to say. Also, a prediction about the writer's strike. Listen to On with Kara Swisher's episode, "Will Elon Musk Turn Twitter Into Yahoo Mail?" here. Send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 405A New Chief Twit, CNN Fallout, and Senator Mark Warner
Kara and Scott discuss Taylor Swift's economic impact, and why there are troubles at Disney Plus and Netflix. Meanwhile, over at Twitter: a new CEO, and a censorship controversy. Also, the Trump Town Hall stirs up internal politics at CNN. Our Friend of Pivot, Senator Mark Warner, stops by to talk TikTok, AI, and the Kids Online Safety Act. You can find Senator Mark Warner at @MarkWarner on Twitter. Send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 404Trump's Town Hall, Santos Charged, and STFU with Dan Lyons
Tucker Carlson says he's moving to Twitter, Google cuts a deal with the New York Times, and the Biden administration might make airlines pay their customers. Kara and Scott unpack the Trump verdict and CNN town hall, and the charges against Representative George Santos. Friend of Pivot Dan Lyons talks about his book STFU, and why we talk too much. Find Dan Lyons on Twitter, and check out STFU here. Send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 403Debt Ceiling, Trump Town Hall, and Guest Claire Hughes Johnson
Kara and Scott talk about the coronation, CNN's Trump town hall, and Elizabeth Holmes. Also, Twitter is bleeding blue checks, and Tucker Carlson reportedly spoke to Elon Musk about his next moves. Then, which party will come out ahead in the debt ceiling negotiations? And, Friend of Pivot Claire Hughes Johnson to talk about what managers get wrong. You can find Claire on Twitter at @chughesjohnson, and can buy “Scaling People: Tactics for Management and Company Building” here. Send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 402Regulating AI, Culture Wars at the School Play, and Guest Anne Applebaum on Ukraine
Kara and Scott on interest rates, new Airbnb features, and the text that got Tucker Carlson fired. AI CEOs are headed to the White House as the FTC puts the industry in its crosshairs, and Scott redefines LLM. Plus: the growing movement to censor kids' theater programs. Today's Friend of Pivot is Anne Applebaum, staff writer at The Atlantic, with the latest on Ukraine. You can find Anne on Twitter at @anneapplebaum, and can read her cover story here. Send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 401J.P. Morgan's First Republic Deal, Twitter v. Bluesky, and Friend of Pivot Joelle Emerson
Kara and Scott discuss the recent warnings from one of the “Godfathers of AI,” as well as the potential writers' strike. Then, J.P Morgan keeps getting bigger with its latest acquisition: First Republic. Elon Musk says Twitter will let media publishers charge for articles. Also, does anybody have a Bluesky referral code? And we’re joined by Friend of Pivot, Joelle Emerson, to break down how recent layoffs have affected corporate diversity. You can find Joelle at @joelle_emerson on Twitter. Send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 400Disney Sues DeSantis, Meta's Good Quarter, and the Case Against TikTok with Senator Michael Bennet
The UK moves to block the Microsoft-Activision deal, Peter Thiel announces a change to his political giving, and First Republic Bank shows we're not out the woods yet. Also, Disney escalates its fight with Florida, and Big Tech has a good quarter. Plus, Senator Michael Bennet (D-CO) joins to discuss TikTok legislation, Twitter, and the Supreme Court. Send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 399Tucker & Don Out, Elon's Blue Check Wreck, and Guest Baratunde Thurston
Kara and Scott react to news that Tucker Carlson is out at Fox, and Don Lemon at CNN. Plus, Kara's got a blue check and Scott doesn't after a messy week at Twitter. Layoffs and closures are hitting left and right with Disney and Lyft layoffs, Bed, Bath & Beyond bankruptcy, and BuzzFeed News shutting down. Also, President Biden is expected to announce his reelection campaign this week. Then we’re joined by Friend of Pivot, Baratunde Thurston. You can find Baratunde's at Puck, on How to Citizen, and on America Outdoors on PBS. Send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Ep 398Fox News Must Pay, DeSantis Doubles Down on Disney, and Dmitri Alperovitch on Discord
Meta's Year of Efficiency continues with 10,000 more layoffs. Apple gets into the savings game with a competitive interest rate. Florida's Ron DeSantis is losing his war on Disney, while Fox News agrees to pay Dominion a hefty sum in a defamation settlement. Pretty good week, all in all. Crowdstrike co-founder Dmitri Alperovitch joins to discuss Discord Leaks and Starlink's role in the Ukraine war. Hear more from Dmitri on Geopolitics Decanted. Send us your questions! Call 855-51-PIVOT or go to nymag.com/pivot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices