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.
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.
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...
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Kara and Scott analyze Trump's address to Congress, Democrats' response, and the economic impact of proposed tariffs. They discuss Elon Musk's political influence, Google's lobbying efforts, and the potential of a stronger European Union. The episode also explores complex issues like pornography addiction and effective political messaging.
Kara and Scott answer listener questions about diverse topics such as Trump seeking a third term, the future of TikTok employees, and the current wave of corporate restructuring. They discuss strategies for career advancement, the importance of supporting moderate political candidates, and practical tips for managing jet lag. The hosts also express their appreciation for Canada and share personal stories related to the country.
Kara and Scott analyze Jeff Bezos' controversial changes to The Washington Post's opinion section, Trump's proposed "gold card" visa program for wealthy investors, and the implications of Elon Musk's leadership on Tesla and Doge. They also discuss NVIDIA's earnings, market trends, and potential strategies for Democrats against the new administration, plus Scott's cameo in White Lotus.
Kara and Scott discuss Elon's ultimatum to federal workers, his bizarre chainsaw-wielding appearance at CPAC, and the paternity lawsuit brought by a right-wing influencer. Then, Trump fires several high-ranking military leaders, and brings in podcaster and former Fox News personality Dan Bongino as Deputy FBI director. Plus, the markets try to rebound after a dramatic plunge, Amazon takes control of the James Bond franchise, and new polling shows nobody likes Mark Zuckerberg. Follow us on Instag...
Kara Swisher and Katie Drummond discuss Elon Musk's influence in the Trump administration, focusing on the 'Doge' initiative, its chaos strategy, and potential conflicts of interest. They also explore the tech industry's reaction, advertiser pressures on X, and the Democrats' response to the administration's policies.
Ben Stiller knew he needed to make Severance the moment he read an early version of the show in a writing sample its creator, Dan Erickson, submitted to his production company. Now, years later, Severance is a hit, reportedly generating $200 million for Apple TV, and Stiller is the series’ executive producer and go-to director responsible for some of its most pivotal episodes. Kara talks to Stiller about the most poignant themes of the show, from its commentary on surveillance and technology to ...
Kara and Scott discuss President Trump’s call with Vladimir Putin about Ukraine, inflation rising 3% in January, and Elon Musk’s Oval Office appearance. Then, Sam Altman has some harsh thoughts about Elon Musk following his bid for OpenAI, an AI deal between China’s BYD and DeepSeek threatens Tesla, and the AP gets punished for deadnaming the “Gulf of America.” Stick around for Scott’s prediction on Tesla. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on Bluesky at @pivo...
Kara and Scott share their reactions to Elon Musk calling them "cruel, mean, & deceitful human beings." Then, they dig into Elon (and a group of investors) making a $97 billion bid for control of OpenAI, and what exactly will come of it. Plus, Trump's latest tariff threats, and his master plan to discredit judges and weaken the judiciary branch. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on Bluesky at @pivotpod.bsky.social Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send ...
Kara and Scott discuss Elon Musk's continued coup, and how Democrats are starting to push back. Then, President Trump shares his bizarre idea for the U.S. to take over Gaza, but is it just part of a larger plan to flood the zone, and distract from Elon's power grab? Plus, the latest earnings from Disney, Alphabet, and Spotify. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on Bluesky at @pivotpod.bsky.social Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by ...
Kara and Scott discuss President Trump's nonsensical trade war, and if there's an actual endgame to these tariffs. Plus, Elon Musk and his DOGE cronies get access to the federal payment system, and important information on government websites starts to disappear. Then, the winners and losers from Big Tech's recent earnings, and OpenAI in talks for a huge funding round. This episode was recorded on Monday morning, before news broke that tariffs on Canada and Mexico would be paused. Follow us on I...
Kara and Scott are joined by Reid Hoffman, co-founder of LinkedIn, and the author of the new book: "Superagency: What Could Possibly Go Right with Our AI Future." They discuss DeepSeek hype and fears, and why spending money on AI is a good thing. Then, Meta settles with Trump for $25 million, and the White House takes a page out of Elon's playbook to offer buyouts to federal employees. Plus, the contentious (and frightening) RFK, Jr. hearings. And will Kara get a podcaster seat at the White Hous...
Kara and Scott discuss the panic in Silicon Valley and on Wall Street over China's new AI model DeepSeek, which sent Nvidia and other tech stocks plunging. Is this a troubling trend for AI and the markets? Then, Trump almost starts a trade war with Colombia, and Oracle is reportedly in talks to take over Tiktok. Plus, Target becomes the latest company to end its DEI efforts. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on Bluesky at @pivotpod.bsky.social. Follow us on T...
Kara and Scott discuss Netflix's stock surging as subscriber growth breaks records yet again, and the SEC forming a crypto taskforce. Then, the Trump administration's disturbing new policy orders federal employees to report on their colleagues as part of the DEI crackdown. Plus, Elon trolls the new Trump-supported AI venture, and gets trolled by Sam Altman in return. Finally, the latest names in the mix for a TikTok deal, including MrBeast. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastoffi...
Kara and Scott are coming to you on a Wednesday to discuss President Trump’s inauguration, and his barrage of Day 1 executive orders. Then, TikTok is back in the U.S. after briefly shutting down: what happens next? Also, President Biden’s last-minute pardons, Vivek Ramaswamy’s DOGE departure, and the First Couple’s meme coin frenzy. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on Bluesky at @pivotpod.bsky.social. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questi...
Kara and Scott preview all the Big Tech leaders going to Washington to kiss the ring at Donald Trump's inauguration. Then, Biden issues a warning about the dangers of ultra-wealthy oligarchy and the "tech industrial complex," but is anyone listening? Plus, as the hearings for Trump's cabinet nominees get underway, are the right questions being asked? Finally, Scott discusses latest venture – sports team owner! Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on Bluesky at @...
Kara and Scott discuss TikTok's prospects after the recent Supreme Court hearing, and Steve Bannon taking on Elon Musk. Then, firefighters are still battling California's wildfires, but misinformation on social media is making things worse. Plus, Mark Zuckerberg praises "masculine energy," and of course, Kara and Scott have thoughts. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on Bluesky at @pivotpod.bsky.social. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your quest...
Kara and Scott discuss the devastating fires in Los Angeles. They also have thoughts about the decision to end Meta’s fact-checking program. Plus, President-elect Donald Trump has spent the week talking about annexing Greenland, renaming the Gulf of Mexico, and making Canada the 51st state. Finally, a listener mail question about responsible podcasting. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on Bluesky at @pivotpod.bsky.social. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast...
As 2025 gets underway, Kara and Scott discuss Donald Trump's latest moves to stop the TikTok ban, net neutrality struck down again, and Meta's big staffing change ahead of inauguration. Then, Tesla's annual sales numbers fall for the first time in over a decade. But do investors even care, given Elon's bromance with Trump? Plus, Kara talks about assembling a group to make a bid for The Washington Post, and why she believes a fresh approach to the business is needed. Follow us on Instagram and Th...
