
Makena Kelly
Senior writer at Wired. Covers technology and politics.
Top 10 podcasts with Makena Kelly
Ranked by the Snipd community

30 snips
Apr 15, 2025 • 27min
Has DOGE Gone Underground?
Dana Hull, a seasoned reporter on Elon Musk, joins forces with Wired's Makena Kelly to dissect the recent silence surrounding DOGE and what it means for Musk's business priorities. They explore potential political maneuvers linked to DOGE and the IRS's efforts to modernize, examining the implications for government efficiency. The conversation shifts to Tesla's stock volatility amid market uncertainties, raising questions about investor sentiment as the earnings report looms. This insightful dialogue uncovers the intricate relationship between cryptocurrency and political dynamics.

26 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 24min
DOGE 2.0
Makena Kelly and Vittoria Elliott, both senior writers at WIRED specializing in technology and politics, delve into the evolving influence of DOGE 2.0 on U.S. government agencies. They discuss the chaotic integration of DOGE staffers into critical roles and the implications for accountability. The conversation highlights DOGE's connection to Elon Musk and challenges faced in modernizing government operations. They also touch on innovative projects like a mega API for inter-agency collaboration and the unique contributions of diverse team members in tech-driven initiatives.

26 snips
Jun 13, 2025 • 31min
TBD | New DOGE, New Tricks
Makena Kelly, a senior writer at WIRED and expert on all things Dogecoin, dives deep into the shifting landscape of DOGE post-Elon Musk. She discusses the transition of DOGE into a formal government initiative and the unique challenges of managing tech talent within the bureaucracy. The conversation reveals the tension between promises of efficiency and the realities of government systems, as well as ongoing legal issues impacting immigration policy. Join in for insights on the chaotic yet fascinating interplay between cryptocurrency and government dynamics.

24 snips
Apr 4, 2025 • 31min
TBD | Where DOGE Is Taking Us
Makena Kelly, a senior writer at WIRED who delves into the intersection of politics and technology, discusses the looming layoffs of 10,000 employees at the Department of Health and Human Services. She highlights the potential dangers these cuts pose to public health and safety. The conversation also covers the influence of Dogecoin on government dynamics, including how its rise mirrors political changes and raises concerns about privatization. Kelly critiques the treatment of constituents as customers, similar to Elon Musk’s approach at Twitter.

Mar 21, 2024 • 24min
America’s love-hate relationship with Tik Tok
US intelligence warns of Chinese interference through Tik Tok in the presidential election. Debate over bill to force Chinese owners to sell app. Can Beijing use social media to undermine American democracy? Would banning Tik Tok stop it? Analysis by BBC and Wired journalists.

Jun 13, 2025 • 31min
New DOGE, New Tricks
Makena Kelly, a Senior Writer at WIRED, discusses the future of Doge after Elon Musk's controversial exit. She delves into how Doge is evolving from a personal project to a crucial government tool amid leadership instability. The podcast reveals the challenges of integrating technology with governance, focusing on efficiency and transparency in operations. Kelly also explores the shifting relationship between Silicon Valley talent and government, raising questions about the implications for civil liberties and data privacy.

Apr 4, 2025 • 31min
What Next: TBD | Where DOGE Is Taking Us
Makena Kelly, a senior writer for WIRED, dives into the controversial intersection of Dogecoin and politics. She reveals how DOGE's push for cutting government jobs at the Department of Health and Human Services raises questions about efficiency and job security. Kelly highlights the potential harm to public health services as thousands face layoffs. The discussion also tackles the philosophical shift of viewing citizens as consumers, exploring the implications this has for governance and accountability in a rapidly changing technological landscape.

Apr 4, 2025 • 31min
Where DOGE Is Taking Us
Makena Kelly, a Senior Writer at WIRED specializing in politics and technology, dives into the tumultuous world of DOGE and its ambitious plans with the Department of Health and Human Services. They discuss the emotional impact of mass layoffs on public health workers and the dire consequences of budget cuts. The conversation also explores the intersection of Dogecoin with political policies, the legal complexities of governmental operations, and the ongoing challenge of modernizing outdated tech systems. It's a thought-provoking look at the evolving governance landscape.

Mar 25, 2025 • 58min
Latvian Foreign Minister Baiba Braže
Latvia's Foreign Minister Baiba Braže provides crucial insights on the ongoing Ukraine-Russia conflict and the creeping tensions in the Black Sea. Makena Kelly explores how Elon Musk's tech maneuvers impact government operations. Shaima Al-Obaidi shares urgent stories from the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, particularly the grim situation for children. Author Clay Risen connects the dots between today’s political climate and the Red Scare, reminding us of the consequences of historical fears on civil liberties.

Sep 11, 2024 • 32min
No Dogs or Cats Were Harmed In the Making of This Post-Debate Podcast
Makena Kelly, a political analyst at WIRED, and Tim Marchman, a political commentator, dive into the chaos of the recent presidential debate. They discuss Trump's trendy conspiracies and Harris's bold debating style. The duo unpacks the implications of aggressive campaign tactics, from strategic mailings to social media's quirky narratives. Listeners will enjoy insights on major issues like nuclear policy and rising political memes that emerged from the debate aftermath. Their dynamic dialogue reveals the evolving landscape of American politics.