Pivot

New York Magazine
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May 8, 2020 • 49min

Facebook's oversight board is the "League of Nations", Airbnb CEO Brian Chesky's master class on leadership, and a prediction about Uber's numbers

Comedian Sarah Cooper, celebrated for her viral lip-syncing of Trump's press conferences, shares her creative journey and transition from corporate life to comedy. She discusses the evolution of comedy during the pandemic and the importance of audience connection. The conversation also dives into the effectiveness of Facebook's oversight board, Airbnb and Uber's recent layoffs, and predictions about Uber's recovery post-COVID. Insightful and humorous, this chat offers a glimpse into the resilience required in both comedy and business.
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May 5, 2020 • 59min

Congress weighs liability for businesses, Amazon will put its $4billion profit into its supply chain, and Anand Giridharadas on "Rich Corona; Poor Corona"

In this engaging discussion, Anand Giridharadas, an author and journalist focused on wealth inequality, weighs in on the pressing issue of corporate liability amid COVID-19. He shares insights on how Amazon plans to reinvest its $4 billion profits into safety measures for its supply chain. The talk also dives deep into the political dynamics around worker protections, the consequences of wealth disparities exacerbated by the pandemic, and the urgent need for transformative reforms in corporate responsibility.
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May 1, 2020 • 50min

Facebook pushes e-commerce business, Uber in trouble, eyes on Amazon Media Group… and a prediction: Sonos gets acquired

Discover the latest on Facebook's ambitious e-commerce expansion and how it's reshaping online retail. Dive into Uber's struggles with layoffs and leadership changes, revealing the ride-hailing giant's ongoing challenges. Listen to bold predictions about Amazon's future dominance and the potential acquisition of Sonos. Plus, explore the evolving film landscape as studios consider the fate of theaters in a world increasingly influenced by tech. The conversation also touches on strategies for rebuilding America’s brand post-COVID.
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Apr 28, 2020 • 1h 6min

Amazon under scrutiny; Zoom security expert Alex Stamos explains it all (and talks Facebook), plus some special Wins and Fails

In this discussion, Alex Stamos, formerly Facebook's chief security officer, shares his insights on privacy and corporate accountability. The hosts explore Amazon's legal troubles, including claims of misconduct and worker safety demands in France. Stamos also delves into Facebook's $5 billion FTC settlement, questioning its effectiveness. Additionally, the conversation shifts to Zoom's efforts to balance security with user privacy amid its rapid growth. The podcast wraps up with lighthearted commentary on industry wins and fails.
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Apr 24, 2020 • 54min

Netflix’s Reed Hastings has a huge quarter, Facebook makes big investment in India, Bezos takes the reins at Amazon

This podcast dives into Netflix's record-breaking quarter, highlighting its unexpected surge in subscribers. The discussion shifts to Facebook's major investment in India's Jio, unlocking fascinating insights about the region's market potential. Jeff Bezos's return to Amazon is examined, particularly his focus on operations during the pandemic. The hosts also tackle the quirky idea of face masks becoming fashion statements. Plus, Scott offers intriguing advice on achieving happiness amid changing times.
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Apr 21, 2020 • 52min

Andreessen tells Silicon Valley it’s “time to build”, Facebook/Google’s ad market hit, Friend of Pivot Rebecca Traister on women’s leadership

Rebecca Traister, a Senior Writer at New York Magazine and author of "Good and Mad," joins the conversation to discuss the critical importance of women's leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic. She shares insights on how female leaders excel in managing crises, advocating for greater representation of women in politics, and examines figures like Elizabeth Warren and Stacey Abrams. The discussion highlights the unique strengths women bring to governance, especially in contrast to traditional male leadership dynamics.
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Apr 17, 2020 • 60min

World Health Organization in the crosshairs, the robot revolution, Softbank's struggling Vision Fund and a big prediction: Amazon is going to be a $2 trillion company by 2020

The discussion dives into the implications of defunding the World Health Organization and critiques the Trump administration's business council for reopening America. Concerns arise over SoftBank's Vision Fund facing massive losses, while a French court calls for safer practices at Amazon. The hosts ponder whether robots will replace essential workers, forecasting a future where automation plays a significant role. They predict Amazon's growth to a staggering $2 trillion amidst the pandemic’s market shifts.
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Apr 14, 2020 • 1h 6min

Google and Apple team up to track COVID-19, Uber drivers face unemployment hurdles, and Robert Reich says 30% of people may be out of work by summer

Join Robert Reich, economist and former US Secretary of Labor, as he dives into pressing economic issues during the pandemic. He discusses the collaboration between tech giants Google and Apple for COVID-19 tracking, emphasizing privacy concerns. The challenges Uber drivers face in securing unemployment benefits are scrutinized, highlighting systemic flaws. Reich also debates the future of the USPS amidst calls for privatization and outlines the importance of strategic political engagement for effective voter connection.
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Apr 10, 2020 • 54min

Dorsey donates 28% of his wealth to COVID-19, Zoom as the poster child for tech privacy and the video-game industry as Amazon enters the production game

Jack Dorsey makes headlines with a staggering $1 billion donation to combat COVID-19, sparking a debate on whether such philanthropy can replace government support. The podcast delves into Zoom's privacy troubles as they enlist a security expert to mitigate concerns. Additionally, the entry of Amazon into the gaming world ignites discussions about competition and creativity in the industry. Listeners can expect insights on tech responsibility and the evolving role of billionaires in public health crises.
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Apr 7, 2020 • 1h 3min

Zoom isn’t as “encrypted” as you think, tech regulation amidst COVID-19, and economist Gene Sperling on being in a “jobs depression”

Gene Sperling, former Director of the National Economic Council under Presidents Clinton and Obama, shares insights on the alarming rise of unemployment in March and how this recession differs from the 2008 financial crisis. The conversation dives into Zoom's security flaws as it becomes essential for everyday life, raising concerns about privacy. They also discuss the potential slowing of tech regulations during the pandemic and the influence of lobbyists in corporate ethics, emphasizing the urgent need for consumer protection amidst uncertainty.

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