

Pivot
New York Magazine
With great power, comes great scrutiny. Every Tuesday and Friday, journalist Kara Swisher and NYU Professor Scott Galloway offer sharp, unfiltered insights into the biggest stories in tech, business, and politics. They make bold predictions, pick winners and losers, and bicker and banter like no one else. From New York Magazine and the Vox Media Podcast Network.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Jun 21, 2019 • 36min
Facebook's New Money and Slack's New Valuation
Delve into Facebook's bold move into cryptocurrency and what it means for the future of finance. Explore the ups and downs of Slack's soaring valuation despite challenges in the communication sector. Discover the humor in awkward moments at a French conference and the serious issues of trust in tech. The hosts also tackle the tricky landscape of content moderation and reflect on executive accountability in today’s industry. A lively mix of insightful analysis and lighthearted commentary keeps the conversation engaging!

Jun 14, 2019 • 39min
Pivot LIVE! From the 2019 Code Conference
Live from the Code Conference, the hosts dive into tech accountability and the urgent need for diverse leadership in the industry. They humorously highlight the role of female CEOs in improving corporate cultures. The conversation shifts to their past predictions about Lyft and Snap, revealing just how accurate they were. Leadership turmoil at Uber also sparks a discussion on the implications for the brand and its struggling driver benefits. Expect sharp insights on political dynamics and big tech’s ongoing influence, all served with a healthy dose of wit!

Jun 7, 2019 • 34min
The FTC and DOJ are Stayin' Alive, and YouTube backtracks on bigotry
This week features lively discussions on the FTC and DOJ ramping up antitrust enforcement against tech giants like Facebook and Google. YouTube faces scrutiny over content moderation and balancing free speech with user safety. The hosts blend political banter with personal anecdotes, including insights on figures like Nancy Pelosi and Bette Midler. They explore the impact of corporate practices on labor dynamics and food insecurity, and hint at exciting market predictions for major tech companies.

May 31, 2019 • 37min
Deepfake takedowns, white supremacy on Twitter, and the companies boycotting anti-abortion states
Explore the challenges of social media in managing misinformation and the responsibilities tied to addressing white supremacy. Discuss the ethics of corporate boycotts against states with harsh anti-abortion laws. Delve into the complexities of philanthropy, and critique billionaires’ charitable actions amidst troubling business practices. Reflect on media successes and controversies, analyze financial challenges faced by companies, and enjoy light-hearted banter about celebrity gossip and parenting experiences.

May 24, 2019 • 39min
Medium's "Shampoo Effect," and Tesla, coming undone?
The hosts dive into an amusing Canadian adventure and share insights from a tech conference featuring Ev Williams. They critique WeWork's financial practices and discuss Tesla's uncertain future amidst skepticism. Feminism in storytelling takes center stage as they explore character portrayal and tech accountability. The tension between convenience and privacy in tech is examined, along with political dynamics impacting major American corporations. They also chat lightheartedly about Memorial Day plans and express excitement for an upcoming conference.

May 17, 2019 • 39min
Alabama's big fail, Uber's disastrous IPO, and the Facebook breakup debate
The discussion kicks off with a personal health scare that leads into amusing takes on bestseller rankings. It dives into Chris Hughes' proposal for Facebook's breakup and the potential impact of tech regulations on giants like Apple. Insights into the stagnant luggage market spotlight the rise of Away Travel. Alabama's controversial abortion laws stir a debate on women's rights. Lastly, unconventional interview strategies are explored, reflecting on gig workers' treatment and recent IPO trends.

May 10, 2019 • 35min
Chris Hughes' Case Against Facebook, Strikes on IPO Week, GoT vs Avengers
A lively discussion unfolds around the contentious issues facing gig economy workers at Uber and Lyft, focusing on their struggles for fair compensation. The hosts dive into the stark power dynamics of Facebook and its potential breakup. They also hilariously compare the emotional stakes of blockbusters like 'Avengers: Endgame' with the darker themes of 'Game of Thrones.' Additionally, they explore the intertwining of tech funding in political campaigns, highlighting the contrasting strategies of prominent candidates as the 2024 elections approach.

May 3, 2019 • 36min
Facebook's privacy fakeout, WeWork's reckless IPO, and Reagan the welfare queen
A lively debate unfolds as the hosts tackle Facebook's privacy paradox amid a landscape of capitalist disparities. They humorously critique weathervane companies manipulating tax systems, while also navigating the evolution of AI and the need for regulation. Disney’s resurgence sparks conversations about ethical quandaries, especially surrounding Amazon's surveillance technology. Plus, the importance of sensory inclusion garners attention, revealing personal stories that highlight the necessity for accommodating environments in everyday life.

Apr 26, 2019 • 32min
The FTC & the "Algebra of Deterrence"
Kara and Scott dive into the FTC's punitive fine on Facebook, likening it to a mere 'parking ticket.' They reflect on Sri Lanka's controversial social media ban after tragic bombings, raising pressing concerns about social media's role in society. The duo discusses recent upheavals at The MarkUp and the Tesla board, while Scott joyfully shares his passion for Broadway. With a blend of humor and sharp insights, they tackle the complexities of corporate accountability and the entertainment industry's unique challenges.

Apr 19, 2019 • 41min
Uber's IPO and, more importantly, Game of Thrones
This discussion dives into Disney's challenging entry into the streaming wars, taking on Netflix and Apple. Uber's IPO reveals the stark contrast between corporate gains and driver struggles, with some humorous insights. Facebook surprisingly makes headlines for its diverse board member appointment. In a delightful crossover, Game of Thrones' cultural impact and character stories weave into the corporate world, illustrating how entertainment and business dynamics collide in unexpected ways.


