Pivot

Claire Hughes Johnson, former COO of Stripe and author of "Scaling People: Tactics for Management and Company Building," dives into management strategies that can make or break a company. She discusses the importance of empathy in leadership and how it fosters team connection, especially in remote work settings. The conversation also touches on effective communication, employee motivation, and the evolving nature of workplace culture amidst economic challenges. Johnson’s insights aim to help managers nurture diverse teams for long-term success.

Anne Applebaum, a seasoned staff writer at The Atlantic and expert on Ukraine, dives into pressing issues surrounding the war and book banning. She discusses the escalating conflict in Ukraine, urging international support and the call for war crime tribunals. The episode also tackles the cultural battles in schools, especially regarding censorship in children's theater. Applebaum highlights grassroots activism, particularly from mothers, emphasizing how these movements can influence political landscapes.

Joelle Emerson, CEO of Paradigm Strategies, shares her expertise in diversity and inclusion during a vibrant discussion. She highlights the toll of recent layoffs on corporate diversity efforts, emphasizing the shifting landscape for women and people of color in leadership roles. The conversation also dives into the difference between authentic DEI initiatives and those that are merely superficial, particularly in tough economic times. With insights on the critical need for diverse boards, Joelle advocates for systemic changes that promote equity from the top down.

Senator Michael Bennet, a prominent voice in the U.S. Senate known for his insights into tech and national security, joins the discussion on pressing political issues. He dives into Disney's high-stakes lawsuit against Ron DeSantis, shedding light on corporate influence in governance. The conversation extends to the urgent need for regulation of platforms like TikTok, discussing implications for democracy and social media's impact on mental health. Bennet also emphasizes the importance of comprehensive oversight in today's digital landscape.

Baratunde Thurston, an acclaimed author and host of How to Citizen, joins the discussion on significant media exits, including Tucker Carlson and Don Lemon, and their political implications. The conversation dives into Twitter's chaotic verification changes under Elon Musk, raising concerns about authenticity. They also explore the economic struggles facing brands like Lyft and BuzzFeed amid layoffs and bankruptcy. Lastly, Baratunde emphasizes the importance of community connection and dialogue in navigating today's complex media landscape.

Dmitri Alperovitch, co-founder of CrowdStrike and a leading cybersecurity expert, joins to shed light on the recent Discord leaks that have raised security alarms. He discusses the pivotal role of Starlink in enhancing military communications during the Ukraine war. The conversation also touches on the ongoing tug-of-war between Ron DeSantis and Disney, revealing the broader implications of political maneuvers that impact marginalized communities. Get insights into how these dynamic issues intersect with technology and geopolitics.

This week’s guest is Kate Crawford, a Principal Researcher at Microsoft Research Lab and a Professor at USC Annenberg, who delves into the societal impacts of AI. She discusses the urgent need for AI literacy and the complexities of online behavior, especially among younger generations. The conversation also touches on the implications of recent classified document leaks and the role of technology in urban safety. Crawford raises critical points on the transformative potential of AI while highlighting the necessary regulatory measures to mitigate its risks.

The hosts dive into why another payment system is needed in today's world. They tackle the disparities in financial literacy between the elite and average folks, stressing the importance of education for younger generations. A lively discussion unfolds on the influence of TikTok and the ethics of tech platforms. The conversation humorously touches on elitism and personal anecdotes about fashion, while wrapping up with a nod to the health and finance connection. Listeners are encouraged to ask questions, blending serious issues with light-hearted banter.

Olivia Nuzzi, Washington correspondent for New York Magazine, dives into her insights from covering Stormy Daniels, sharing the political and cultural implications of public figures today. Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Jennifer Senior discusses her book 'On Grief,' exploring the deeply personal nature of loss and memory. They engage in a thought-provoking conversation about the tension between Twitter and Substack, and how these platforms affect writers and political discourse. Their reflections on grief and resilience offer listeners a blend of humor and heartfelt storytelling.

Alyssa Farah Griffin, co-host of The View and former White House communications director, dives into the aftermath of Donald Trump’s arrest. She discusses how this legal predicament might energize his base and affect his presidential campaign. The conversation also touches on the challenges faced by Republican hopefuls in distinguishing themselves from Trump’s shadow. Additionally, Alyssa critiques media coverage of the situation and its possible repercussions for the upcoming elections, including the changing landscape of abortion rights.