Pivot

Tucker & Don Out, Elon's Blue Check Wreck, and Guest Baratunde Thurston

Apr 25, 2023

Baratunde Thurston, an acclaimed author and host of How to Citizen, joins the discussion on significant media exits, including Tucker Carlson and Don Lemon, and their political implications. The conversation dives into Twitter's chaotic verification changes under Elon Musk, raising concerns about authenticity. They also explore the economic struggles facing brands like Lyft and BuzzFeed amid layoffs and bankruptcy. Lastly, Baratunde emphasizes the importance of community connection and dialogue in navigating today's complex media landscape.

01:13:15

Episode guests

Baratunde Thurston

Highlights

AI Chapters

Episode notes

Challenging the Pause Movement and Embracing Engagement in Technology

02:03

Are podcasts more profitable than online news media?

03:03

Lyft struggling due to high costs and competition

04:38

Opinions on the ABM bev vs Nike sponsorship controversy

02:29

Intro

5min

Media Departures and Political Implications

14min

Chaos in Verification and Economic Turbulence

13min

Retail Struggles and Tech Evolution

14min

Navigating Media, Democracy, and Relationships

17min

Reflections on Trans Rights and Corporate Responsibility

4min

Navigating Brand Controversies and Cultural Authenticity

4min

Reflections on Parenting and Nostalgia

4min

Kara and Scott react to news that Tucker Carlson is out at Fox, and Don Lemon at CNN. Plus, Kara's got a blue check and Scott doesn't after a messy week at Twitter. Layoffs and closures are hitting left and right with Disney and Lyft layoffs, Bed, Bath & Beyond bankruptcy, and BuzzFeed News shutting down. Also, President Biden is expected to announce his reelection campaign this week. Then we’re joined by Friend of Pivot, Baratunde Thurston.

You can find Baratunde's at Puck, on How to Citizen, and on America Outdoors on PBS.

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