Sean O’Kane

Kathryn Anne Edwards, an economist and host of The Optimist Economy podcast, joins the discussion to dissect the August jobs report, shedding light on the current economic climate and rising unemployment issues. Sean O'Kane from TechCrunch dives into Tesla's ambitious $1 trillion pay package for Elon Musk, analyzing its implications for corporate performance and societal inequality. They also touch on the intriguing intersection of Silicon Valley tech leaders dining with President Trump, highlighting the blend of innovation and politics amid economic challenges.

Rebecca Bellan and Sean O’Kane, seasoned reporters in mobility and technology, dive into OpenAI's bold $1-per-year deal with the U.S. government, aimed at integrating AI into federal operations. They discuss the potential implications for generative AI across administration to national security, as well as how competitors like Google and Amazon may respond. The duo also critiques Tesla’s board re-upping Musk's pay and reflects on urban air mobility trends highlighted by Joby Aviation's acquisition of Blade. Unexpected turns in AI's role in the fashion industry add to the conversation.

This discussion features Sean O’Kane, a Senior Transportation Reporter at TechCrunch, alongside Karissa Bell from Engadget, Rob Pegoraro, a seasoned tech journalist, and David Roth from Defector. They explore the chaotic charm of CES 2025, tackling mobility innovations, electric boats, and oddly cute furry robots. Conversations touch on the challenges faced by electric vehicle startups and the absurdity of robot designs. With humor and sharp critiques, they unveil the intersection of technology, marketing, and genuine consumer needs.