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

OpenAI Shake-Ups, Harris’s Economic Vision, and Meta's Big Show

Kara and Scott discuss the biggest announcements from Meta’s Connect conference, and...that shirt. Then, OpenAI executives are jumping ship while the company attempts to go for-profit. Plus, VP Harris has laid out her “pragmatic” economic plans, and former President Trump keeps talking tariffs. Then, a listener question on the role of private equity. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51-P...

Sep 27, 20241 hr 10 minEp. 553

Nike's CEO Shake-up, Trump's "Deranged" Messaging, and Guests Kate Conger and Ryan Mac

Kara and Scott discuss Microsoft's plan to reopen Three Mile Island to power its data centers, and Qualcomm's potential takeover of Intel. Then, Nike gets a new CEO, but will the corporate shake-up get Nike back in the game? Plus, Trump's bizarre messaging around abortion, and Kamala Harris's attempt to get another debate on the calendar. Our Friends of Pivot are New York Times reporters Kate Conger and Ryan Mac, who are out with a new book, "Character Limit: How Elon Musk Destroyed Twitter." Ka...

Sep 24, 20241 hr 19 minEp. 552

Instagram's Teen Accounts, Fed Rate Cut, and Guest Justin Theroux

Kara and Scott discuss Donald Trump's crypto plans, and Melania's bizarre promotional videos for her book. Then, Instagram is rolling out teen accounts, with default privacy for users under 18, messaging restrictions, and more. Will these changes do some actual good, or will they just help Instagram avoid scrutiny and regulation? Plus, the Fed makes a major rate cut – what does that mean for consumers and investors? Finally, our Friend of Pivot is actor and writer, Justin Theroux. Justin chats a...

Sep 20, 20241 hr 18 minEp. 551

TikTok in Court, Shein and Temu Crackdown, and Guest Evan Ratliff

Kara and Scott discuss the apparent assassination attempt on Donald Trump, and what impact (if any) this will have on the election. Then, Tiktok has its day in court, the Biden administration cracks down on Shein and Temu, and what we're learning about OpenAI's future plans. Our Friend of Pivot is longtime tech journalist Evan Ratliff, who embarked on AI experiment with his new podcast, "Shell Game." Plus, Kara and Scott share some fun stories from the big birthday weekend in Scotland. Follow Ev...

Sep 17, 20241 hr 5 minEp. 550

Debate Reax, Taylor's Endorsement, Apple's AI Upgrades

Kara and Scott discuss the highs and lows of the presidential debate, the potential power of Taylor Swift's endorsement, and Elon's creepy offer. Then, Kara shares what she saw at Apple's big "Glowtime" event, and what to expect from the newest AI products. Plus, a listener mail question on the role of parents when it comes to keeping kids safe online. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling us at 855-51...

Sep 13, 20241 hr 18 minEp. 549

Google Antitrust Redux, Debate Predictions, and Guests Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe

Kara and Scott discuss the court battle over Rupert Murdoch's empire set to get underway this week. Then, Google and the DOJ are facing off for another major trial, this time Google is facing antitrust claims about its ad business. Plus, predictions on the presidential debate. Finally, our Friends of Pivot are sports icons, Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe, who are now offering expert analysis every week on their podcast, "A Touch More." Sue and Megan talk about how women's sports has become a booming...

Sep 10, 20241 hr 19 minEp. 548

X Blocked in Brazil, Nvidia Wipeout, and the Fuss Over Founder Mode

Kara and Scott are reunited and it feels so good! They talk about the latest election polls, tech stocks continuing to struggle, and Apple's role in child safety legislation. Then, after Brazil blocks X, will other countries take on Elon Musk? Plus, what the heck is founder mode and why is everyone in Silicon Valley talking about it? Finally, a listener mail question about the future of Trump Media, as the stock plummets to new lows. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. F...

Sep 06, 20241 hr 26 minEp. 547

Decoder with Nilay Patel: What's Next for the Controversial 'Child Safety' Internet Bill

There’s a major internet speech regulation currently making its way through Congress, and it has a really good chance of becoming law. It’s called KOSPA: the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act, which passed in the Senate with overwhelming bipartisan support late last month. At a high level, KOSPA could radically change how tech platforms handle speech in an effort to try and make the internet safer for minors. Nilay Patel talks with Verge senior policy reporter Lauren Feiner, who’s been covering...

Sep 03, 202443 minEp. 546

Zuck Under Pressure, Presidential Debate Rules, and New Covid Vaccines

Kara is joined by her brother Jeff Swisher, her son Louie Swisher, and best friend of Pivot George Hahn! They discuss the upcoming debate rules and the state of the race, Mark Zuckerberg saying he felt “pressured” to “censor” Covid-19 content, and burnout among teachers and parents. Also a new COVID-19 vaccine is here – when should you get it? Then, a discussion on rawdogging flights… because why not? Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodca...

Aug 30, 20241 hr 8 minEp. 545

The Politics of Joy, Telegram CEO Arrested, and Guest Host Adam Grant

Kara and guest host Adam Grant discuss whether Democrats can keep running on the politics of joy, the contrasting types of masculinity on the ballot, and the effective leadership tactics that everyone can learn from this election cycle. Plus, what the arrest of Telegram CEO Pavel Durov means for social media platforms and tech execs. Then, our Friend of Pivot is Anupreeta Das, a New York Times journalist, and the author of the new book, "Billionaire, Nerd, Savior, King: Bill Gates and His Quest ...

Aug 27, 20241 hr 18 minEp. 544

All Things DNC, Election Updates, and Guest Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham

Laura Coates joins Kara as co-host to discuss all things DNC! Top speakers, funny moments, and better vibes than the RNC. And of course, Tim Walz’s pep talk for the country. Plus, the latest on the race: RFK Jr. plans to drop out and endorse former President Trump. Then we’re joined by Friend of Pivot and Governor of New Mexico, Michelle Lujan Grisham. Watch Kara and Scott’s interviews with Congressman Maxwell Frost, and Senators Michael Bennet, Mark Kelly and Amy Klobuchar on our YouTube channe...

Aug 23, 20241 hr 4 minEp. 543

Convention Kickoff, Kamala Reshapes the Electoral Map, and TimTok Arrives

Pivot is at the Democratic National Convention in Chicago! Scott is stuck outside the security perimeter, but you'll still hear from him. Meanwhile, Kara sits down with CNN'S Audie Cornish and Politico's Eli Stokols to break down what Harris and the Democrats need to accomplish this week, and whether it matters that Harris hasn't done an interview since becoming the Democratic candidate. Plus, Governor Tim Walz joins TikTok with his signature dad humor. Can a TikTok ticket translate into actual ...

Aug 20, 20241 hr 10 minEp. 542

The Harris Campaign's Got Jokes, Tubi's Taking Over, and Mike Birbiglia's Our Co-Host

Comedian Mike Birbiglia joins Kara to discuss the legal backlash to President Trump and Elon Musk's X event, the role of humor in the Harris campaign, and Starbucks tapping Chipotle’s CEO. Plus, Governor Gavin Newsom wants schools to restrict cellphone use, and streamer Tubi is defying expectations. Then, Mike answers your questions! Did he influence J.D. Vance’s love of couches? How does he approach storytelling? And most importantly…is Scott funny? Mike is currently doing a Charitybuzz auction...

Aug 16, 20241 hr 9 minEp. 541

Trump's AI Accusations, Cable TV Challenges, and Guest Anthony Scaramucci

Kara is joined by guest host Mehdi Hasan to discuss Warner Bros. Discovery and Paramount announcing major write-offs for their cable assets, and Elon Musk facing yet another lawsuit. Then, what the latest poll numbers reveal about the state of the presidential race, plus Donald Trump's false claims that Kamala Harris rally photos are AI-generated. Our Friend of Pivot is Anthony Scaramucci, former White House Communications Director, and the founder and managing partner of SkyBridge Capital. The ...

Aug 13, 20241 hr 21 minEp. 540

Tim Walz, X vs. Advertisers, and Global Markets Bounce Back

Noel King joins Kara as co-host to discuss the latest global market moves, NASA needing help from SpaceX, and whether empathy punishments work. Then, Tim Walz joins the Democratic ticket, how will the GOP campaign against him ? Plus, X has filed a federal antitrust suit against advertisers. Then, Noel and Kara make predictions on who will play Tim Walz on SNL, and what celebs the invigorated Democratic National Convention will attract. Listen to Today Explained here. Follow us on Instagram and T...

Aug 09, 20241 hr 9 minEp. 539

Stock Market Sell-Off, Google Antitrust Verdict, and Guest Jonathan Kanter

Kara and Scott discuss the global stock market sell-off, and why people shouldn't panic. Then, Berkshire Hathaway unloads nearly half of its stake in Apple as the company's cash stockpile increases, and what's behind the reported growing tensions between Warren Buffett and Bill Gates. Plus, Donald Trump ditches the previously scheduled ABC debate, and insists on Fox News or nothing. Our Friend of Pivot is Jonathan Kanter, the Assistant Attorney General for the Justice Department's Antitrust Divi...

Aug 06, 20241 hr 24 minEp. 539

Trump's Interview Disaster, The Kids Online Safety Act, and Governor Jared Polis

Kara and Scott discuss Donald Trump's disastrous interview at the National Association of Black Journalists’ conference, the hundreds of VCs pledging their support to Kamala Harris, and the narrowing VP race. Plus, the latest earnings from Meta and Microsoft, and the Senate finally takes action with online regulation for kids. Then we’re joined by Friend of Pivot, Democratic Governor of Colorado, Jared Polis. You can find Governor Polis on Threads at @govofco. Follow us on Instagram and Threads ...

Aug 02, 20241 hr 18 minEp. 538

Murdoch Succession Drama, Trump's Voting Promises, and Guest Anne Applebaum

Kara and Scott discuss Biden's proposal to reform the Supreme Court, and Rupert Murdoch's real-life succession drama. Then, Elon is dealing with some family drama of his own, as his estranged daughter and his ex's mother call him out on social media. He also seems to have violated his own platform's policies, by sharing a deep fake of a Kamala Harris ad. Plus, Donald Trump courts the Bitcoin bros and Christian voters, as Kamala raises millions. Finally, our Friend of Pivot is Anne Applebaum, sta...

Jul 30, 20241 hr 22 minEp. 537

Tech Stocks Tumble, Kamala's Momentum, and Guest Dr. Anthony Fauci

Kara and Scott discuss Kamala Harris's poll numbers in the face of GOP attacks, Biden's farewell speech, and what Taylor Swift will do about it all. Then, tech stocks tumble after underwhelming earnings reports from Tesla and Alphabet. Then we’re joined by our Friend of Pivot, Dr. Anthony Fauci, to talk about his new memoir, “On Call: A Doctor’s Journey in Public Service.” You can find “On Call,” here. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodc...

Jul 26, 20241 hr 11 minEp. 536

Kamala’s Presidential Run, CrowdStrike’s Meltdown, and Guest Lydia Polgreen

Kara and Scott discuss Joe Biden passing the torch to Kamala Harris, and how she'll do against Trump. Also, who will be her VP? Friend of Pivot, New York Times Opinion Columnist Lydia Polgreen joins them to discuss. Then, the ongoing fallout from the CrowdStrike update that caused 8.5 million devices to crash on Friday. You can find Lydia on Threads at @lpolgreen. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast. Send us your questions by calling ...

Jul 23, 202456 minEp. 535

Biden Campaign Crisis, Trump and the Tech Bros, and Elon Exits California

Kara and Scott discuss Biden's campaign crisis, and what happens next. Then, a number of Kara's favorite tech bros are lining up behind Donald Trump and J.D. Vance. How much influence could they have if Trump wins the election? Plus, Elon plans to relocate X and SpaceX to Texas, and Google is in talks for its largest acquisition ever. 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 nyma...

Jul 19, 202455 minEp. 534

Trump VP Pick, Assassination Attempt Aftermath, and Guest David Plouffe

Kara and Scott react to the news of Donald Trump's VP pick, J.D. Vance, in real time. Then, they discuss whether Americans can actually "lower the temperature," following the Trump assassination attempt. Plus, a closer look at the conspiracy theories and misinformation now swirling around social media, and how Elon Musk is trying to shape the narrative. Our Friend of Pivot is David Plouffe, former Obama campaign manager, and current co-host of "The Campaign Managers" podcast. David explains what...

Jul 16, 20241 hr 7 minEp. 533

Biden on the Defensive, Trump's Threats, and Congressional Stock Trading

Kara and Scott discuss Microsoft and Apple ditching OpenAI board seats, the proposed ban on congressional stock trading, and Tesla's EV market share dipping below 50% for the first time. Then, calls for Biden to drop out of the race are mounting, but will the president just wait out the clock? Plus, what the GOP's new platform reveals about a Trump second term, including the implications for Big Tech. Finally, a listener question on deciding where to go for college. Follow us on Instagram and Th...

Jul 12, 20241 hr 12 minEp. 532

Biden's Future, Paramount Skydance Merger, and Guest Brian Derrick

Kara and Scott discuss Biden's decision to stay in the race, and what alternate scenarios might look like. Then, after months of negotiations, the Paramount and Skydance merger appears to be (finally) happening. Plus, Apple gets a seat on OpenAI's board, and Threads turns one. Finally, our Friend of Pivot is Brian Derrick, a political strategist, and the founder and CEO of Oath, a fundraising platform that aims to maximize campaign donations. Brian explains how donors are reacting to Biden's con...

Jul 09, 20241 hr 5 minEp. 531

OpenAI CTO Mira Murati on ScarJo Controversy, Sam Altman & Disinfo Fears | On With Kara Swisher

Pivot is off for the holiday! In the meantime, we're bringing you an episode of On With Kara Swisher. Kara interviews Mira Murati, Chief Technology Officer at OpenAI, and one of the most powerful people in tech. Murati has helped the company skyrocket to the forefront of the generative AI boom, and Apple’s recent announcement that it will soon put ChatGPT in its iPhones, iPads and laptops will only help increase their reach. But there have been some issues along the way - including CEO Sam Altma...

Jul 05, 202450 minEp. 530

Future of Travel: How is Aviation Innovating?

Pivot’s special series on the future of travel wraps up with a last stop: planes. What exactly is happening with Boeing? How will AI play a role in aviation? And most importantly, what is everyone’s favorite, and least favorite airport? Kara and Scott discuss it all with Pete Muntean, CNN's aviation and transportation correspondent, who also happens to be a pilot and flight instructor. Follow Pete at @petemuntean. Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial. Follow us on TikTok a...

Jul 03, 202439 minEp. 529

Debate Aftermath, Amazon Takes on Shein, and Guest Kim Scott

Kara and Scott discuss the Supreme Court's Trump immunity ruling, and some of the controversial opinions from this term. Then, frustrations, fears, and theories after Biden's disastrous debate. Plus, Amazon prepares to compete in the on-demand fashion arena with Shein and Temu. Can it be a contender? Finally, our Friend of Pivot is Kim Scott, a former Google and Apple executive, and the author of "Radical Respect: How To Work Together Better." Kim explains how to effectively manage employees wit...

Jul 02, 20241 hr 1 minEp. 528

SCOTUS Social Media Ruling, VW Rivian Deal, and Nvidia Stock Roller Coaster

Kara and Scott discuss Nvidia’s roller coaster week, Waymo making robotaxis available for everyone in San Francisco, and what's next for Julian Assange after his release. Then, the Supreme Court rules in favor of the Biden administration in a social media content moderation case. Will that set a precedent for future social media/misinformation rulings? Plus, Volkswagen gives Rivian a $5 billion shot in the arm. Is the deal a win-win for both companies? Finally, a listener challenges Scott on whe...

Jun 28, 20241 hr 2 minEp. 527

Future of Travel: Is It Boom or Bust Time for EVs?

Pivot's special series on the future of travel rolls on — next stop, electric vehicles. Is the slowdown in EV sales a temporary blip, or part of a larger trend? When will individuals get a piece of charging station revenues? And what will be the ultimate gamechanger to get people to buy these cars? Kara and Scott discuss it all with Beia Spiller, an energy economist, and the Transportation Program Director for Resources for the Future. Follow Beia at @starbeia Follow us on Instagram and Threads ...

Jun 26, 202429 minEp. 526

Debate Prep, Apple and Meta's Potential AI Partnership, and Guest Brené Brown

Kara and Scott roll their eyes over the latest Elon stories, including the news of his 12th child, and his criticism of Melinda French Gates’ political donations. Then, are longtime adversaries Apple and Meta putting their differences aside for a new AI partnership? Plus, with the presidential debate just a few days away, Kara and Scott share their advice for the candidates. Finally, our Friend of Pivot is Brené Brown, host of the Vox Media podcasts, "Unlocking Us" and "Dare to Lead." Brené expl...

Jun 25, 20241 hr 24 minEp. 525