Pivot - podcast cover

Pivot

New York Magazinenymag.com
Every Tuesday and Friday, tech journalist Kara Swisher and NYU Professor Scott Galloway offer sharp, unfiltered insights into the biggest stories in tech, business, and politics. They make bold predictions, pick winners and losers, and bicker and banter like no one else. After all, with great power comes great scrutiny. From New York Magazine and the Vox Media Podcast Network.

Episodes

The Newsom-Trump Beef Heats Up

This episode delves into the political friction between Governor Gavin Newsom and former President Trump, analyzing Trump's use of military force and the public's reaction to immigration policies. The conversation also covers Elon Musk's attempts to mend ties with Trump and X's controversial legal threats to advertisers. Additionally, Kara and Scott explore the ongoing US-China trade dynamics, the competitive landscape in AI development with OpenAI, Google, and Meta, and emerging copyright issues related to generative AI.

Jun 13, 20251 hr 14 minEp. 634

LA Protests, Trump's Authoritarian Playbook, and Warner Bros. Discovery Split

Kara Swisher and Scott Galloway dissect Trump's controversial federal response to the LA protests, analyzing his tactics as potentially authoritarian and discussing the Democratic party's need for a stronger counter. They also dive into the escalating feud between Trump and Elon Musk, exploring its political and business implications. Finally, they break down the announced split of Warner Bros. Discovery and its potential impact on the media landscape.

Jun 10, 20251 hr 15 minEp. 624

Elon & Trump: The Breakup of the Summer

This episode dives deep into the dramatic public falling out between Donald Trump and Elon Musk, analyzing the tweets, the market reaction including Tesla's stock drop, and the political maneuvering. Kara and Scott discuss Trump's reaction through executive orders, his trade call with China's President Xi and its economic consequences, and the challenges faced by media companies like Paramount and Warner Bros Discovery in the current political climate. They also touch upon the broader implications of Trump's actions on American institutions and corporate behavior.

Jun 06, 20251 hr 8 minEp. 623

Elon's Drug Denial, Trump's Tariff Play, and Taylor Swift's Master Move

This episode covers recent political and business news, including Senator Joni Ernst's controversial remarks on Medicaid cuts and the subsequent public reaction. Kara and Scott delve into Texas's new law requiring app stores to verify user ages, debating the privacy implications and ideal implementation. They analyze Taylor Swift's significant business move to reacquire her master recordings, discussing the value of artist control and IP protection. The conversation also tackles the New York Times report on Elon Musk's alleged drug use, its potential impact, and the fading influence of Trump over him, highlighted by a recent withdrawn nomination. Finally, they examine Trump's latest move to double tariffs on steel and aluminum, exploring his strategy, its economic consequences, and the complex trade relationship with China.

Jun 03, 20251 hr 9 minEp. 622

TACO Trade, Elon's DOGE Farewell, and AI Video Gone Wild

Kara and Scott dissect the week's business and political news, covering a court ruling against Trump's tariffs, the concept of the "TACO" trade, and serious allegations of insider trading surrounding his announcements. They discuss Elon Musk's latest moves, his political alignment, and the state of his various ventures, including the autonomous vehicle debate. The episode also explores Trump's feuds with Harvard and Apple, the economic importance of international students, and his surprising pivot towards cryptocurrency, highlighting concerns about grift. Finally, they share their firsthand, often hilarious, experience testing Google's new AI video generator, VEO 3, and debate its potential impact on the media industry and established players.

May 30, 20251 hr 21 minEp. 621

Monopoly Isn't A Game (with Lina Khan) - Stay Tuned with Preet

Preet Bharara interviews former FTC Chair Lina Khan about her rapid rise and influential work on Amazon, which challenged traditional antitrust views. They discuss the real-world impact of monopolies, surprising bipartisan support for enforcement, and the historical context of anti-monopoly laws. Khan explains how monopolies can stifle innovation, details the FTC's case against Amazon, and addresses criticisms faced by the agency and recent commissioner firings. The episode concludes with listener Q&A on the Surgeon General, immigration enforcement via the Kid Rock restaurant example, and Trump's comments on Bruce Springsteen.

May 27, 20251 hr 7 min

Elon’s Politics Detox, the “Big, Beautiful” Bill's Next Phase, and Open AI's Big Bet

This week, Kara Swisher and Scott Galloway analyze Elon Musk's controversial political spending and Tesla's performance issues. They discuss President Biden's prostate cancer diagnosis, debating its impact on his legacy and the Democratic party's future strategy, including the need for a more open primary process. The hosts examine the new tax bill's economic consequences, arguing it favors the wealthy and exacerbates national debt, affecting the bond market. Finally, they explore tech news with design icon Jony Ive joining OpenAI for consumer devices and Google's release of its AI search feature, comparing their competitive strategies, and touch on the Democratic party's efforts to build an influencer network.

May 23, 20251 hr 22 minEp. 620

Biden's Cancer Diagnosis, U.S. Credit Downgrade, and Trump Bullies Walmart

Scott and Kara cover major news, starting with President Biden's cancer diagnosis and the debate around age limits for politicians. They break down Moody's downgrade of the US credit rating and the implications of recent spending and tax bills. The episode also explores Trump's tactics pressuring companies like Walmart and Apple, Meta's challenges with AI development and scams, and the rapidly evolving GLP-1 drug market, including the struggles of companies like Novo Nordisk and Weight Watchers. They finish with their regular segment, Wins and Fails.

May 20, 20251 hr 7 minEp. 619

HBO Max Returns, Trump in the Middle East, and RFK Jr. Goes Swimming

Kara and Scott analyze Meta's antitrust trial, scrutinizing the attack on media critics and potential outcomes. They discuss Apple's pricing amidst supply chain shifts and debate the company's innovation challenges. The hosts also dive into Trump's Middle East dealings, RFK Jr.'s controversial statements, and HBO Max's rebranding saga, assessing the implications for tech, business, and public health.

May 16, 20251 hr 13 minEp. 618

U.S.-China Trade Deal, Trump's Plane Grift, and the American Pope

Kara and Scott dissect the US-China trade tensions, Trump's dubious dealings with Qatar for a new Air Force One, and the surprising selection of an American Pope and the potential impact of his papacy. They also touch on topics such as Newark airport's ongoing issues, and the latest venture of Elizabeth Holmes' partner, sparking a conversation about justice and Silicon Valley ethics.

May 13, 20251 hr 13 minEp. 617

AMD CEO Lisa Su on the “Dead Sexy” AI Chips Race - On with Kara Swisher

In 2014, when Lisa Su took over as CEO of Advanced Micro Devices, AMD was on the verge of bankruptcy. Su bet hard on hardware and not only pulled the semiconductor company back from the brink, but also led it to surpass its historical rival, Intel, in market cap. Since the launch of ChatGPT made high-powered chips like AMDs “sexy” again, demand for chips has intensified exponentially, but so has the public spotlight on the industry — including from the federal government. In a live conversation,...

May 10, 202553 min

OpenAI Abandons For-Profit Plans, Disney and Uber Earnings, and Meta’s “Creepy” AI

Kara and Scott discuss escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, OpenAI's shift away from a for-profit model, and President Trump's trade dealings. They analyze Disney and Uber's latest earnings, debate the creepiness of Meta's AI app, and consider listener predictions on topics ranging from AI dominance to potential economic recession. The episode also touches on cybersecurity failures, philanthropic efforts, and the ethical implications of AI on society.

May 09, 20251 hr 18 minEp. 616

Trump's Movie Tariffs, Buffett's Retirement, and Elon's New City

Kara and Scott discuss Trump's remarks on the Constitution, potential movie tariffs, and Warren Buffett's retirement. They also analyze Apple and Amazon earnings, Elon Musk's new city, and Mark Zuckerberg's awkward comments on AI and loneliness. The hosts critique the Democratic response to Trump and debate the impact of proposed tariffs on various industries, ending with wins and fails.

May 06, 20251 hr 11 minEp. 615

Elon's Tesla Board Drama, Microsoft and Meta Earnings, and Bezos Bends the Knee

Kara and Scott discuss Tesla's board drama, Microsoft and Meta earnings, and Trump's economic blaming. They analyze Elon Musk's potential replacement, debate the impact of tariffs, and examine Jeff Bezos' relationship with Trump. The episode also covers Apple's antitrust case and features predictions for the future.

May 02, 20251 hr 8 minEp. 614

Trump's Meme Coin Scheme, Alphabet's Earnings, and Cybertruck's Competition

Kara and Scott dissect Alphabet's strong earnings and debate the potential breakup of tech giants. They also discuss Trump's meme coin scheme, raising corruption concerns, and his evolving stance on the Ukraine war. The episode further explores the impact of tariffs and the competition in the electric vehicle market, highlighting a new affordable EV truck.

Apr 29, 20251 hr 10 minEp. 613

Elon Steps Back from DOGE, Wall Street Whiplash, and Meta’s Antitrust Trial Continues

Kara and Scott discuss Elon Musk stepping back from DOGE to focus on Tesla amid financial struggles. They also cover Kevin Systrom's testimony in the Meta antitrust trial, Sarah Palin's defamation retrial loss, and the newly found will of Tony Hsieh. The episode further examines market volatility influenced by Trump and predictions for big tech's future.

Apr 25, 20251 hr 23 minEp. 612

Signalgate Sequel, Trump's Baby Boom Plans, and Netflix Earnings

Kara and Scott analyze Hegseth's Signal scandal, potential Google spin-offs, and Tesla's struggles. They also delve into Trump's policy proposals and the Supreme Court's intervention, debating the implications for justice and economic prosperity. The discussion covers China's trade threats, Netflix's resilience, and concerns over data privacy and government overreach.

Apr 22, 20251 hr 13 minEp. 611

Elon’s Harem, Trump v. Harvard, and Zuckerberg on the Stand

Kara and Scott dissect pressing issues, including Trump's attacks on the Fed and Harvard, Elon Musk's disturbing family planning revelations, and Zuckerberg's antitrust trial defense. They analyze economic implications, media responsibility, and the potential for business leaders to challenge harmful policies. The episode offers sharp insights and bold predictions on the intersection of tech, politics, and society.

Apr 18, 20251 hr 16 minEp. 610

Tariff Twists and Turns, Meta Antitrust Trial, and Blue Origin Girls' Trip

Kara and Scott discuss Trump's tariff flip-flops and their impact on businesses, as well as the FTC's antitrust trial against Meta and potential remedies. They also analyze China's economic strategy and the implications of U.S. debt. The episode further covers El Salvador's deportation policies, Blue Origin's all-female space flight, and Bill Maher's controversial dinner with Trump, ending with wins, fails, and trade deal analysis.

Apr 15, 20251 hr 16 minEp. 609

Demis Hassabis on AI, Game Theory, Multimodality, and the Nature of Creativity | Possible

How can AI help us understand and master deeply complex systems—from the game Go, which has 10 to the power 170 possible positions a player could pursue, or proteins, which, on average, can fold in 10 to the power 300 possible ways? This week, Reid and Aria are joined by Demis Hassabis. Demis is a British artificial intelligence researcher, co-founder, and CEO of the AI company, DeepMind. Under his leadership, DeepMind developed Alpha Go, the first AI to defeat a human world champion in Go and l...

Apr 12, 20251 hr 1 min

Trump's Tariff Pause, Apple's Highs and Lows, and Musk v. Navarro

Kara and Scott dissect Trump's tariff pause, the trade war's impact on Apple, and the Musk-Navarro feud, highlighting the uncertainty and potential economic fallout. They explore potential insider trading, discuss the role of CEOs, and express concerns over the erosion of due process and attacks on truth-tellers. Ultimately, they predict Trump will blink again, averting a full-blown crisis.

Apr 11, 20251 hr 3 minEp. 608

Market Meltdown, Tariff Winners and Losers, and TikTok Deadline Delayed

Kara and Scott analyze the market's volatility due to Trump's tariffs and China's response, discussing potential winners and losers. They explore the impact on tech companies and the possible consequences of a trade war. The conversation shifts to the postponed TikTok ban, questioning its national security implications and the influence of investors. Finally, they touch on the importance of protecting individual rights, beyond just market concerns.

Apr 08, 20251 hr 7 minEp. 607

Liberation Day, Elon Exit Rumors, and Guest Co-Host Jon Lovett

Kara Swisher and Jon Lovett discuss Elon Musk's potential departure from the Trump administration and the impact of new tariffs. They also analyze a Democratic win in Wisconsin, Cory Booker's speech, and the complexities of TikTok's future, offering insights into the current political and tech landscape. The episode explores themes of power, influence, and the consequences of policy decisions.

Apr 04, 20251 hr 9 minEp. 606

Elon Merges Companies, WHCA Cuts Comedian, and Guest Co-Host Jen Psaki

Kara Swisher and Jen Psaki discuss Signalgate, Trump's legal tactics, and Elon Musk's political influence. They delve into Trump's pardons and the White House Correspondents' Association controversy, offering insights into media dynamics and political strategies. Psaki shares her transition from politics to media, analyzing Democratic challenges and potential shifts in political alliances.

Apr 01, 20251 hr 9 minEp. 605

Signalgate, Auto Tariffs, and Trump's Crypto Empire

Kara and Scott discuss the Signal Gate scandal and the Trump administration's response, new auto tariffs, Trump's crypto venture, Disney's DEI practices, and Megyn Kelly's podcast network launch. They also analyze the potential for growth in podcast advertising and offer a prediction about China's expanding global influence.

Mar 28, 20251 hr 11 minEp. 604

Meta Tell-All, Elon's Daughter Speaks Out, Cybertruck Recall

Kara and Scott dissect the controversy surrounding a Meta tell-all book and the complexities of Section 230. They also scrutinize Elon Musk's Pentagon visit, Cybertruck recall, and his daughter's candid interview. The hosts further discuss RFK Jr.'s views on cell phones in schools, and the troubling trend of cutting funding for humanitarian efforts.

Mar 25, 20251 hr 9 minEp. 603

Roberts Criticizes Trump, FTC Firings, and White House Installs Starlink

Kara and Scott analyze Trump's attacks on the judiciary and FTC, and the ethical implications of Starlink at the White House. They discuss BYD's advancements in EV technology, protests against Tesla, and Forever 21's bankruptcy blaming fast fashion. The episode also covers the removal of important historical information from government websites and features a listener question about Trump's proposed tax policies.

Mar 21, 20251 hr 6 minEp. 602

Democrats Divided, Market Roller Coaster, and Southwest Airlines

Kara and Scott analyze Democratic party divisions, the economic climate under Trump, and Southwest Airlines' brand strategy shift. They discuss Schumer's leadership failings, Trump's economic messaging, and the importance of soft power and strategic investments, as well as the rising influence of Europe.

Mar 18, 20251 hr 9 minEp. 601

Tariff Turmoil, Trump’s Tesla Ad, and Newsom’s Bannon Interview

Kara and Scott analyze the implications of Amazon streaming Trump's "The Apprentice" and discuss Gavin Newsom's controversial podcast featuring Steve Bannon. They delve into the economic impact of Trump's tariffs, debate the likelihood of a recession, and scrutinize the relationship between Trump and Elon Musk, including Musk's promotion of Tesla at the White House and potential political donations.

Mar 14, 20251 hr 11 minEp. 600

Elon's Empire Struggles, Trump's Crypto Summit, and IPO Slump

Kara and Scott discuss Elon Musk's struggling empire, the implications of Trump's crypto summit, and the ongoing IPO slump. They analyze Tesla's declining sales and brand image, debate the strategic value of Bitcoin reserves, and explore the challenges young people face in today's economy. The episode also touches on the importance of trade schools, political interference, and the US's relationship with Canada.

Mar 11, 20251 hr 7 minEp. 599
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