Pivot

Reflecting on a tumultuous year, the discussion highlights the fallout from Russia's invasion of Ukraine and its impact on global tech. Key moments in U.S. politics are examined, from the Supreme Court’s decisions on women’s rights to the ongoing saga of political insults. The complicated acquisition of Twitter by Elon Musk raises eyebrows about corporate governance. Amidst all the chaos, there's room for celebrating achievements, particularly in Latin American democracy, as the hosts welcome the new year with gratitude and humor.

Kara and Scott dive into a year of bold tech predictions, unpacking wins and losses, particularly around Elon Musk's controversial Twitter acquisition. They analyze the shifting dynamics in tech legislation, highlight the SEC's investigation into Trump's SPAC, and discuss the struggling landscape of social media. The conversation shifts to cryptocurrency, focusing on Bitcoin's resilience versus the speculative chaos around altcoins. Humor meets insight as they predict future tech challenges, including augmented reality and market rivalries.

Join the hosts as they tackle listener questions about LinkedIn etiquette and dive into the evolving landscape of Microsoft's tech empire. They discuss the societal shift away from wealth fixation and how younger audiences value real-life connections over social media drama. There's a playful exploration of the absurdities of wealth, alongside serious insights into balancing personal values with career choices. Personal stories highlight the importance of family support, making every moment count, and addressing health awareness, all wrapped in their signature humor.

Exciting developments in the tech world take center stage! The FTC is attempting to block Microsoft's acquisition of Activision Blizzard, raising questions about antitrust issues. Meanwhile, Twitter Blue makes a comeback with a revamped verification process. Personal reflections also shine through, blending humor with poignant discussions about marriage rights and health challenges. Plus, there's a juicy listener voicemail that sparks a spirited debate on social media dynamics. Tune in for engaging insights and updates from the ever-evolving tech landscape!

Congressman Ro Khanna, representing California's 17th district, discusses the alarming presence of Twitter ads on white nationalist profiles and the fallout of executive departures at Salesforce. He delves into the growing tensions between the U.S. and China over tech issues and the failed Journalism and Competition Preservation Act. Khanna highlights the implications of the Twitter Files, shedding light on media transparency and First Amendment rights, while also touching on the complexities of international prisoner exchanges.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Maria Ressa, CEO of Rappler, makes a compelling guest. She talks about the struggles for press freedom in a world facing rising dictatorship. The discussion touches on social media's role in amplifying misinformation and the vital need for accountability in journalism. Ressa also shares insights from her new book, emphasizing resilience and the fight against oppression. The conversation dives into the challenges of corporate decision-making in the digital age and how media responsibility is crucial for democracy.

Elon Musk makes peace with Tim Cook after a tumultuous relationship, discussing the implications for both companies. Sam Bankman-Fried's recent publicity stunts are scrutinized, revealing insights into his controversial journey. The Senate's passage of the Respect for Marriage Act sparks a discussion on evolving marriage dynamics and LGBTQ+ rights. The hosts blend humor with serious reflections about corporate accountability, tech layoffs, and the shifting landscape of media and advertising, leaving listeners with plenty to ponder.

William D. Cohan, an insightful author and journalist, is joined by Anand Giridharadas, a thought leader on persuasion in democracy. They dive into Elon Musk's controversial Twitter saga and debate the potential repercussions of lifting bans on accounts. Cohan reflects on the tumultuous history of General Electric, while Giridharadas highlights the urgency of clear messaging in politics. The conversation also touches on global protests impacting Apple and the need for effective dialogue in an increasingly polarized society.

In a Thanksgiving special, the hosts tackle the intricacies of modern parenting amid Covid and societal changes. They share personal stories and insights on the challenges of raising boys, emphasizing self-awareness and emotional expression. The impact of privilege and post-pandemic struggles on child development is explored, along with the complexities of choosing between public and private education. They also reflect on the role of faith and community in shaping family bonds, encouraging listeners to prioritize meaningful relationships.

Noam Bardin, former CEO of Waze and founder of Post News, shares insights on his new venture aimed at compensating publishers. He delves into the challenges traditional platforms face and discusses innovative community-driven content moderation. The conversation also touches on the noticeability of political shifts in social media, particularly regarding Trump's Twitter return. Bardin emphasizes the importance of fostering respectful online discussions and the potential of micropayments to enhance news accessibility, promoting a more positive information-sharing environment.