Derek breaks down the biggest economic mystery of the moment: Why are the most successful tech companies collectively laying off more than 130,000 people if the overall unemployment rate is still historically low? Then award-winning Puck journalist William Cohan rejoins the podcast to talk about the biggest unanswered questions swirling around disgraced billionaire Sam Bankman-Fried, his FTX bankruptcy proceedings, and his forthcoming criminal case.Host: Derek ThompsonGuest: William CohanProducer: Devon Manze Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

William Cohan, bestselling author, discusses the Paramount-Skydance merger deal and insights on potential stakeholders. He shares his experience visiting Sam Bankman Fried in prison. The hosts analyze financial news updates, market dynamics, and political discussions in Westminster. They delve into the complexities of media industry mergers and investing in distressed companies for higher returns.

Ronan Farrow and William Cohan join Kara Swisher to talk about Elon Musk's unprecedented power over the federal government and national security. They discuss Musk's influence in various sectors such as space exploration and social media, his defiance of regulatory orders, and concerns about his behavior and misuse of influence. The podcast also examines the financial implications for investors in Twitter and Musk's rise in power and wealth.

Reporter William Cohan discusses Paramount's future after rejecting a buyout. Topics include Chewy's surge, Amazon's retail strategy, and reaching a $2 trillion market cap. They explore Paramount's executive changes, failed deals, and potential sale amidst rumors. Insights on stock market volatility, short squeezes, and Amazon's AI ventures.

Author William Cohan recalls his friendship with JFK Jr. during their time at boarding school, discussing JFK Jr.'s partying and daredevil streak. They also explore JFK Jr.'s struggle with fame and his desire to escape his legacy through kayaking and flying. The podcast delves into his kayaking adventures, his magazine George, and his relationship with wife Carolyn. The speaker reflects on their interactions and JFK Jr.'s love for flying, which eventually led to his fatal flight.