Elon Musk, the influential entrepreneur behind Tesla and SpaceX, joins the conversation to explore the aftermath of Hurricane Helene and its impact on politics and the economy. He shares insights on his long history as a Republican donor and comments on OpenAI’s massive valuation, calling it 'corporate puffery.' The discussion also delves into the implications of Trump's federal election case and offers a humorous take on dating dynamics amid these significant events. Don't miss their lively banter and personal anecdotes!

Mike Maples Jr., co-founder of the VC firm Floodgate and author of "Pattern Breakers," shares insights into what makes a successful startup. He highlights the importance of adaptability and timing in entrepreneurship. The discussion covers the financial ups and downs of OpenAI, raising questions for investors. Maples also reflects on his biggest investment miss and the lessons learned from it. The conversation navigates through the shifting landscape of tech funding and the role of 'pattern breakers' in innovation.

Vice President Kamala Harris shares her pragmatic economic vision, advocating for higher corporate taxes and reforms to support the middle class. Former President Trump voices concerns over tariffs, adding a layer to the ongoing economic debate. The conversation shifts to the latest from Meta's Connect conference, including innovative product launches and the blending of tech and fashion. Additionally, they critically assess OpenAI's shift towards profitability amidst executive departures, sparking a discussion on corporate governance and market disparities.

Kate Conger and Ryan Mac, New York Times reporters and co-authors of a book on Elon Musk's impact on Twitter, delve into the chaos surrounding Musk's takeover. They share behind-the-scenes stories of Twitter's transformation and the chaotic decision-making that followed. The duo also discusses Nike's recent leadership change and its implications for the brand. Additionally, they analyze Trump's controversial messaging on women's issues and the shifting political landscape, highlighting the intersection of technology, business, and politics.

Justin Theroux, an accomplished actor and writer, joins the conversation to share insights about his new film, "Beetlejuice Beetlejuice," and his adventures in experimenting with AI. The hosts discuss Instagram's new approach to teen privacy, questioning whether it genuinely protects users or merely sidesteps regulation. They also delve into the implications of the recent Fed rate cut for consumers and investors, mixing in witty banter about the quirky nature of celebrity promotions and insights on Hollywood's evolving landscape.

Evan Ratliff, a seasoned tech journalist and host of the new podcast "Shell Game," dives into the latest legal battles and regulatory issues facing platforms like TikTok, as well as the government's crackdown on companies like Shein and Temu. He discusses the implications of AI in creativity and innovation, touching on ethical concerns and the evolving landscape of tech. The conversation also weaves in light-hearted anecdotes from a recent trip to Scotland, showcasing a blend of humor and serious societal reflections.

Taylor Swift, a global music icon noted for her cultural impact, and Elon Musk, the visionary entrepreneur behind Tesla and SpaceX, engage in a lively discussion. They dive into the aftermath of the recent presidential debate, highlighting the influence of celebrity endorsements like Taylor's on voter engagement. Elon shares insights on his quirky tech proposals, while they also reflect on the latest innovations unveiled at Apple's event, particularly in generative AI. Additionally, they tackle the complexities of ensuring children's safety online amidst evolving tech landscapes.

Sue Bird, a legendary WNBA star, and Megan Rapinoe, a trailblazing soccer champion, join the conversation to shed light on the booming business of women's sports. They discuss the evolving landscape of athletics, addressing the challenges athletes face in leveraging social media while maintaining personal connections. The duo emphasizes the importance of political engagement and gender equity in sports. They also share insights on the upcoming presidential debates, merging their athletic perspectives with social and political commentary.

Kara and Scott dive into a whirlwind of topics, from the political climate and tech stock woes to Apple's role in child safety legislation. Brazil's ban on X ignites a debate about censorship and Musk's controversial free speech approach. The intriguing concept of 'founder mode' in Silicon Valley sparks a conversation about leadership in startups. They also tackle listener inquiries about Trump's media ventures against a backdrop of financial instability. It's a lively mix of humor and serious insights!

Lauren Feiner, a senior policy reporter at Verge, dives into the intricacies of the Kids Online Safety and Privacy Act (KOSPA). She discusses how this bipartisan legislation could reshape online safety for minors while stirring debate about free speech. The conversation reveals the challenges tech companies face in balancing child protection with privacy rights. With growing scrutiny over their roles, Feiner highlights diverse opinions among advocacy groups and parents regarding the impact of these new regulations on platforms like Google and TikTok.