Makena Kelly

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.

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.

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.

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with political policies, the legal complexities of governmental operations, and the ongoing challenge of modernizing outdated tech systems.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.

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.

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.

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.

Makena Kelly, a senior reporter at WIRED covering tech and politics, teams up with Leah Feiger, a savvy social media influencer. They dive into how the Democratic National Convention rolled out the red carpet for creators, emphasizing their role in rallying youth support. The conversation highlights the shift from traditional journalism to influencer-led engagement, detailing exclusive parties and the strategy behind leveraging viral moments. They also discuss the impact of social media on political narratives and the challenges influencers face in maintaining accountability.

Makena Kelly discusses the TikTok ultimatum, potential buyers, antitrust concerns, foreign ownership challenges, security risks, and data privacy concerns. The podcast delves into the legislative process, geopolitical implications, and Oracle's role in safeguarding TikTok data amidst uncertainty.

Leah Feiger, Tori Elliott, and Makena Kelly discuss the potential ban on TikTok in the US. They cover topics like the legal battle over First Amendment rights, the uncertainty surrounding TikTok's future and potential buyers, the role of influencers in political campaigns, and the impact of TikTok ban on influencers. They also touch on controversial theories like alien bodies in Mexico.