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

Trump's Big Speech, Trade War Roller Coaster, and Elon v. Jon Stewart

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.

Mar 07, 20251 hr 18 minEp. 598

Trump Term Limits, TikTok Status Check, and Scott's Presidential Prospects

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.

Mar 04, 202545 minEp. 597

Elon's First Cabinet Meeting, Trump's Gold Card, and Bezos' WaPo Revamp

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.

Feb 28, 20251 hr 10 minEp. 596

Elon's Ultimatum, Trump's Military Purge, and Amazon's 007 Deal

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...

Feb 25, 20251 hr 4 minEp. 595

DOGE’s Chaos Strategy, X’s New Valuation, and Guest Co-Host Katie Drummond

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.

Feb 21, 20251 hr 7 minEp. 594

On with Kara Swisher: Why Ben Stiller Made Severance

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 ...

Feb 18, 20251 hr 5 minEp. 593

Trump’s Putin Call, Inflation Rises, and Sam Altman Strikes Back at Elon Musk

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...

Feb 14, 202559 minEp. 592

Elon's OpenAI Bid, Trump's Judicial Strategy, and DOGE's Shock and Awe

​​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. S...

Feb 11, 20251 hr 22 minEp. 591

Elon Pushback, Trump's Distraction Trap, and Disney Earnings

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 ...

Feb 07, 20251 hr 15 minEp. 590

Trump's Tariffs, Elon's Government Takeover, and OpenAI's New Funding

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...

Feb 04, 20251 hr 17 minEp. 589

DeepSeek Fallout, Meta Settles with Trump, and Guest Host Reid Hoffman

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...

Jan 31, 20251 hr 12 minEp. 588

DeepSeek Shockwaves, Nvidia's Plunge, and Target's DEI Rollback

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...

Jan 28, 202558 minEp. 587

Musk vs. Altman, Trump Admin's DEI Crackdown, and Netflix Stock Surge

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...

Jan 24, 20251 hr 13 minEp. 586

Trump Takes Office, TikTok’s Brief Shutdown, and Crypto Cronyism

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...

Jan 22, 202559 minEp. 585

TikTok's Future, Big Tech at Trump's Inauguration, and Biden's Final Warning

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 @...

Jan 17, 20251 hr 7 minEp. 584

Zuck's Masculine Energy, Bannon vs. Musk, and Wildfires Misinformation

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...

Jan 14, 20251 hr 9 minEp. 583

Meta Ends Fact Checking, Trump Tries to Redraw the Map, and the Los Angeles Fires

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...

Jan 10, 20251 hr 9 minEp. 582

Kara's Washington Post Bid, Trump's TikTok Plans, and Tesla's Sales Drop

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...

Jan 07, 20251 hr 20 minEp. 581

2025 Predictions on AI, Podcasting, and the IPO of the Year

It’s time for our annual predictions episode! Kara and Scott share their 2025 predictions on Trump’s second term, AI, podcasting, the IPO of the year, and more. Plus, some Friend of Pivot predictions from Don Lemon, Anthony Scaramucci, Zoë Schiffer, Bill Cohan, Ian Bremmer, and Kyla Scanlon. 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 calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at n...

Jan 03, 20251 hr 2 minEp. 580

Stay Tuned with Preet: Mind Over Brain Rot (with Sam Harris)

Sam Harris is a philosopher, neuroscientist, and the host of the Making Sense podcast. He joins Preet to discuss political debate in the Trump era, the end of identity politics, and the morality of the Hunter Biden pardon. Plus, could Trump fire Fed Chair Jerome Powell? What does Preet think about Kash Patel? And how might Trump use the Vacancies Act? Listen to more from Stay Tuned with Preet here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dec 31, 20241 hr 20 minEp. 579

Prof G Markets: The Art of Spending Money

Scott breaks down the best and worst purchases he’s ever made, and why he prefers spending money on experiences rather than things. He also shares how his childhood still impacts the way he thinks about spending. Scott and Ed then discuss how to navigate spending in common situations such as dinners with friends, weddings, and the holidays. Ed asks for advice about how to prepare for the cost of having children. And Scott also explains why it's important to make sure your spending lags behind yo...

Dec 24, 20241 hr 9 minEp. 578

Meta's Chief AI Scientist Yann LeCun Makes the Case for Open Source | On With Kara Swisher

We're bringing you a special episode of On With Kara Swisher! Kara sits down for a live interview with Meta's Yann LeCun, an “early AI prophet” and the brains behind the largest open-source large language model in the world. The two discuss the potential dangers that come with open-source models, the massive amounts of money pouring into AI research, and the pros and cons of AI regulation. They also dive into LeCun’s surprisingly spicy social media feeds — unlike a lot of tech employees who toe ...

Dec 21, 202455 minEp. 577

Tech Layoffs, Midlife Investing, and Parenthood in the Age of AI

It’s our second call-in show! Kara and Scott talk to Pivot listeners and answer questions about investing in your 50s, how much is enough, and what is going with the job market in tech. Plus, how to approach parenthood in today’s age, and how to address racial biases in venture capital. 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 calling us at 855-51-PIVOT, or at nymag....

Dec 20, 20241 hr 3 minEp. 576

SoftBank's Investment, ABC's Trump Settlement, and Guest Co-Host Paul Krugman

Kara is joined by Nobel Prize-winning economist, and recently retired New York Times columnist, Paul Krugman. They discuss SoftBank's $100 billion investment in U.S. projects, ABC News settling with Donald Trump, and TikTok's latest legal setback. Then, OpenAI fires back at Elon Musk, and Apple's foldable future. Plus, Paul gets a little wonky, and weighs in on crypto's actual value, and what Trump doesn't understand about tariffs. Check out Paul's Substack: Krugman Wonks Out. Follow us on Insta...

Dec 17, 20241 hr 7 minEp. 575

Internet’s Luigi Obsession, Biden Pardons, and Guest R.J. Cutler

Kara and Scott discuss President Biden’s clemency announcement, Rupert Murdoch’s succession scheme backfires, and GM scraps its Cruise robotaxi program. Plus, the entire internet tries to analyze Luigi Mangione — Scott and Kara have opinions about that. Also, President-elect Donald Trump has named Andrew Ferguson to lead the FTC, and our thoughts on Time’s Person of the Year. Then, Friend of Pivot R.J. Cutler joins to discuss his latest documentaries on Martha Stewart and Elton John. Follow us o...

Dec 13, 20241 hr 17 minEp. 574

TikTok Ban Looms, Trump's AI and Crypto Czar, and Guest Vivian Tu

Kara and Scott discuss TikTok's latest legal setback, and what Donald Trump will do (if anything) if the ban goes into effect next month. Then, Trump appoints investor, podcaster, and Elon minion, David Sacks, as the new "White House AI and crypto czar." Will this position have any real power? Plus, Anthem Blue Cross Blue Shield backs away from a controversial plan to only pay for anesthesia for a limited amount of time. Our Friend of Pivot is Vivian Tu, host of the Vox Media podcast "Networth a...

Dec 10, 20241 hr 16 minEp. 573

CEO Shooting, Bitcoin Surge, and Bezos’s Trump Optimism

Kara and Scott discuss the highlights from The New York Times DealBook Summit, including Jeff Bezos saying he’s “optimistic” about a second Trump term, and Sam Altman trying to make nice with Elon Musk. Then, the murder of United Healthcare CEO Brian Thompson has prompted a wave of reactions on social media. Plus, the French government collapsed on Wednesday, and South Korea’s president is facing impeachment after declaring martial law. Also, in good news for cryptocurrency, Trump’s new SEC pick...

Dec 06, 20241 hr 6 minEp. 572

Hunter Biden Pardon, Kash Patel for FBI Director, and Guest Lauren Greenfield

Kara and Scott discuss the Hunter Biden pardon, and its repercussions for President Biden. Then, President-elect Donald Trump selects Kash Patel to run the FBI, and new reports raise questions and concerns about Pete Hegseth. Plus, Elon Musk takes aim at Sam Altman and OpenAI, yet again. Our Friend of Pivot is filmmaker Lauren Greenfield, whose new docuseries, "Social Studies," provides an inside look at teens and social media. Lauren explains what parents don't know about their kids' social med...

Dec 03, 20241 hr 22 minEp. 571

How Trump’s Second Term Could Be Bad For EVs, But Great For Tesla | Decoder

Happy Thanksgiving! Pivot is off for the holiday, so we're bringing you an episode of Decoder with Nilay Patel. Nilay is talking about something we've discussed a lot on Pivot — Elon Musk, Donald Trump, and Tesla. How is the CEO of an electric car company, an outspoken advocate for combating climate change, going to square his support for Trump and a Republican policy agenda centered on climate change denial? Verge transportation editor Andy Hawkins joins to make sense of it all, and to figure o...

Nov 29, 202442 minEp. 570

Bluesky's Moment, Crony Capitalism, and Guest Julie Scelfo of MAMA

Kara and Scott discuss the "Glicked" effect on the box office, and Amazon's new $4 billion investment in Anthropic. Then, Elon Musk and Vivek Rameswamy bring their Silicon Valley buddies into the Department of Government Efficiency, while President-elect Donald Trump gets Wall Street's approval with his Treasury Secretary pick. Plus, Bluesky continues to surge, and Meta appears to be feeling the heat. Our Friend of Pivot is Julie Scelfo, the founder of Mothers Against Media Addiction or MAMA. Ju...

Nov 26, 20241 hr 34 minEp. 569
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