Squawk Pod Kevin Mayer, Fmr. TikTok CEO & Disney Executive 9/23/25
Sep 23, 2025
Kevin Mayer, the former CEO of TikTok and Disney executive, explains TikTok's U.S. strategy and the challenges of data privacy amid concerns over Chinese influence. He also shares insights on Disney’s recent decisions about Jimmy Kimmel’s show. Hemant Taneja, CEO of General Catalyst, advocates for a shift in Silicon Valley towards more intentional building, especially in AI. He discusses the energy demands of AI, proposed changes to H-1B visas, and the importance of attracting global talent to keep the U.S. competitive.
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Episode notes
Brief, Remote Tenure At TikTok
- Kevin Mayer recounts his short, remote tenure at TikTok during 2020 amid US-China tensions.
- He calls it awkward and notes most of his time there was on Zoom.
TikTok Deal Solves Data And Algorithm Fears
- Oracle oversight plus separate algorithm instances aim to resolve US national-security concerns about TikTok.
- Kevin Mayer believes US engineers can operate and diverge the algorithm independently over time.
Algorithm Portability Is Realistic
- AI recommendation systems are now better understood and Western engineers can replicate TikTok's algorithm.
- Mayer thinks divergent code bases for China and the U.S. are feasible long-term.
