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Pivot

New York Magazinenymag.com
With great power, comes great scrutiny. Every Tuesday and Friday, 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. From New York Magazine and the Vox Media Podcast Network.
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Episodes

AI Basics: How and When to Use AI

Kara and Scott are back in your feeds for a special series on the basics of Artificial Intelligence. What should you use it for? What tools are right for you? And what privacy issues should you watch out for? Kylie Robison, Senior AI Reporter for The Verge, joins Pivot with a primer on how to integrate AI into your life. 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....

Oct 23, 202423 minEp. 561

Elon's Million Dollar Giveaway, OpenAI and Microsoft Tensions, and Guests Chantal Fernandez and Lauren Sherman

Kara and Scott discuss Disney's succession plans, and Netflix's latest blockbuster earnings. Then, a new report details tensions between Microsoft and OpenAI. But could the two companies realistically walk away from their partnership? Plus, Donald Trump's closing argument takes a vulgar turn, and Elon Musk's million dollar giveaway faces legal scrutiny. Our Friends of Pivot are Chantal Fernandez from The Cut, and Lauren Sherman from Puck. Chantal and Lauren have teamed up to write the new book, ...

Oct 22, 20241 hr 11 minEp. 560

Trump’s Strange Playlist, Kamala on Fox, and Elon’s Robot Fail

Kara and Scott discuss the latest from the campaign trail: VP Kamala Harris’s potential Joe Rogan appearance, former President Trump’s musical rally, and Elon Musk’s $75 million donation to his pro-Trump Super PAC. Plus, Elon’s big Cybercab reveal, Big Tech's nuclear energy buy-in, and a listener question on financial planning with a parent. Also, answer our listener poll on Threads, here ! Follow us on Instagram and Threads at @pivotpodcastofficial . Follow us on TikTok at @pivotpodcast . Send ...

Oct 18, 20241 hr 6 minEp. 559

Bill Gates on How to Tax the Rich, AI, Misinformation, & the Election | 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 is chatting with Bill Gates, the co-founder and former CEO of Microsoft, and the co-chair of the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Bill has been one of the richest people in the world for decades, and he's also spent decades giving away his fortune and working on some of humanity’s most vexing challenges. That’s the focus of his Netflix docuseries What’s Next? The Future with Bill Gates, w...

Oct 15, 202456 minEp. 558

Google’s Potential Break Up, Hurricane Conspiracies, and Guests Susanne Craig and Russ Buettner

Kara and Scott discuss the highlights of VP Kamala Harris’s press blitz, TikTok being sued by 14 states, and the much-anticipated Tesla robotaxi event. Plus, the DOJ is considering breaking up Google to address its monopoly power on search. Also, a conversation about the danger of hurricane conspiracy theories. Then, our Friends of Pivot Susanne Craig and Russ Buettner join to talk about their new book, “Lucky Loser: How Donald Trump Squandered His Father’s Fortune and Created the Illusion of Su...

Oct 11, 20241 hr 11 minEp. 557

Kamala's Media Blitz, Elon's Giant Leap, and Guest Chris Urmson

Kara and Scott discuss Kamala Harris's big media blitz, and the podcast (aside from Pivot) that she should really appear on. Then, Elon Musk leapt into the air at Donald Trump's weekend rally in Pennsylvania, and a lot of people had thoughts. Plus, Google is finally facing some real competition when it comes to the $300 billion search advertising business. Our Friend of Pivot is Chris Urmson, founder and CEO of Aurora, a start-up focusing on autonomous trucking. Chris explains how Aurora is gett...

Oct 08, 20241 hr 12 minEp. 556

Hurricane Helene Aftermath, Trump’s Federal Election Case, and OpenAI’s Valuation

Kara and Scott discuss OpenAI’s huge new valuation, and Elon Musk’s “corporate puffery.” Then, in election news, a civil VP debate, and newly revealed evidence in the Trump federal election case. Also, Elon Musk has been a Republican donor for far longer than we knew. Plus, the political and economics impacts of Hurricane Helene. Stay tuned for listener mail to hear Kara and Scott’s dating advice! Vote for us as Best Co-Host Team in the Signal Awards here ! Follow us on Instagram and Threads at ...

Oct 04, 20241 hr 2 minEp. 555

VP Debate, OpenAI Financial Churn, and Guest Mike Maples Jr.

Kara and Scott discuss California governor Gavin Newsom's veto of the AI bill that divided Big Tech, and Trump Media co-founders dumping $100 million worth of stock. Then, JD Vance and Tim Walz face off, Donald Trump's latest comments hit new lows, and is Kamala Harris leaning into crypto? Plus, a peek at OpenAI's financials reveals massive gains, but bigger losses. Will that be a problem for investors? Our Friend of Pivot is Mike Maples Jr., co-founder of the VC firm, Floodgate, and author of t...

Oct 01, 20241 hr 20 minEp. 554

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...

Sep 27, 20241 hr 6 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 15 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 14 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 1 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-...

Sep 13, 20241 hr 14 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 15 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 . ...

Sep 06, 20241 hr 22 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, 202439 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 @pivotpodc...

Aug 30, 20241 hr 4 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 14 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 6 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 5 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 17 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 ...

Aug 09, 20241 hr 5 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 20 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 14 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 18 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 @pivotpo...

Jul 26, 20241 hr 7 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 calli...

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 nym...

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
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