

On with Kara Swisher
Vox Media
It's on. Twice a week, award-winning journalist Kara Swisher gets to the heart of the story through no-holds-barred interviews with power players across business, tech, media, politics and beyond. So why do her guests show up? “Smart people,” says Kara, “like difficult questions.”Mondays and Thursdays from New York Magazine and the Vox Media Podcast Network.
Episodes
Mentioned books

52 snips
Sep 25, 2025 • 1h 4min
Did ChatGPT Encourage a Teen Suicide? The Parents Suing OpenAI Say Yes
In this poignant discussion, Matt and Maria Raine share their heartbreaking account of their son Adam's interactions with ChatGPT, which they allege contributed to his suicidal thoughts. Matt details his shocking discovery of Adam's dark chat logs, while Maria highlights the troubling lack of safety protocols in the AI's responses. Their attorney, Jay Edelson, critiques OpenAI's design choices and emphasizes the urgent need for accountability. Together, they advocate for stronger safeguards and parental controls for AI usage by minors.

126 snips
Sep 22, 2025 • 1h 5min
Pete Buttigieg on Biden, Trump, Gaza, and His 2028 Presidential Plans
Pete Buttigieg, former U.S. Secretary of Transportation and a rising star in the Democratic party, discusses challenges facing the party as he weighs a 2028 presidential run. He addresses the complexities of Biden's 2024 candidacy and the evolving stance on Gaza. Buttigieg critiques political violence and social media's role in radicalization, and offers insights on gerrymandering. He also shares thoughts on the future of the party, emerging leaders, and the importance of rebuilding trust in American institutions after Trump.

60 snips
Sep 18, 2025 • 57min
Joe Manchin on Trump, the Dems & the Filibuster
Join Joe Manchin, former U.S. Senator and centrist icon, as he discusses his new memoir, 'Dead Center: In Defense of Common Sense.' Manchin delves into his unorthodox voting record and reasons for leaving the Democratic Party. He reflects on the dangers of political polarization and how bipartisan relationships used to foster compromise. The conversation touches on the filibuster as a protection against hurried legislation, the challenges facing independents, and why a centrist movement may hold promise for future elections.

215 snips
Sep 15, 2025 • 54min
How To AI: A Practical Business Q&A With Three Experts
Sayash Kapoor, co-author of "AI Snake Oil" and Substack writer, Rajeev Kapur, CEO of 1105 Media and author of "AI Made Simple," and futurist Amy Webb tackle pressing AI questions. They discuss how AI reshapes business without displacing jobs and emphasize the need for critical thinking in tech integration. Vibe coding, the balance between trust and privacy, and ethical considerations in AI are explored, alongside strategies for young professionals entering the workforce. Listeners leave with insights on adapting to the AI revolution.

32 snips
Sep 11, 2025 • 50min
Is AI Hollywood’s Newest Star? Runway AI’s Vision for the Future of Film
Cristobal Valenzuela, Co-founder and CEO of Runway AI, discusses how AI-generated videos are revolutionizing storytelling, making it accessible to aspiring filmmakers. He highlights the dual nature of this technology, capable of creating both innovative films and concerning deepfakes. The conversation dives into Runway's strategies to stand out against tech giants and the ethical responsibilities tied to AI in the film industry. Valenzuela also emphasizes the importance of keeping creativity at the heart of filmmaking while managing the challenges that come with AI adoption.

44 snips
Sep 8, 2025 • 51min
How A ‘Brittle’ Constitution Broke U.S. Politics with Historian Jill Lepore
In this engaging discussion, historian Jill Lepore, a New Yorker staff writer and Harvard professor, sheds light on her latest book about the U.S. Constitution. She argues that while the amendment process was a radical innovation, it has become nearly unchangeable, impacting today's political climate. Lepore critiques originalism, discusses the challenges posed by Trump’s rhetoric, and emphasizes the importance of public involvement in constitutional governance. The conversation navigates historical compromises and the growing significance of the 14th Amendment in modern America.

27 snips
Sep 4, 2025 • 1h 2min
Liberal Media Bias, Trump & Taming Big Tech with Cable Impresario John Malone
John Malone, the influential Chairman of Liberty Media and cable industry pioneer, shares his journey from engineer to media mogul. He discusses the evolution of cable television and how he navigated its challenges. Malone dives into the hot topics of liberal media bias, the impact of Trump's political narrative, and the necessity for regulating Big Tech. He critiques CNN’s approach and contrasts it with companies like Fox News, all while advocating for a balanced media landscape amidst changing viewer preferences.

64 snips
Sep 1, 2025 • 1h 8min
Labor Day Special: Hacks On Tap
In this engaging discussion, Rahm Emanuel, former White House Chief of Staff and mayor of Chicago, joins David Axelrod and John Heilemann to tackle pivotal political topics. They dive into President Trump's National Guard threats in Chicago and the critical state of Ukraine peace talks. Emanuel shares personal insights on Chicago's vibrant reality versus grim narratives, calls for genuine crime discussions, and explores the shifting political landscape ahead of future elections. Expect humor and a candid look at the complexities of contemporary governance!

33 snips
Aug 28, 2025 • 59min
Joy Reid on Dems, Gaza & Independent Media
Joy Reid, a political analyst and former MSNBC host known for her independent media platforms, shares her journey transitioning to independent content creation after her show was canceled. She explores the challenges and freedoms of platforms like Substack and YouTube, discussing timely topics such as the Gaza conflict and the Democratic Party's future. Reid also reflects on the rebranding of MSNBC to 'MSNOW' and emphasizes the power of independent media to challenge conventional narratives and engage younger audiences in political dialogues.

59 snips
Aug 25, 2025 • 59min
Cartoons, Capitalism & Censorship: Alison Bechdel & Ann Telnaes on Politics in Art
Graphic novelist Alison Bechdel, known for 'Fun Home' and teaching at Yale, and Pulitzer-winning cartoonist Ann Telnaes discuss the intersection of art and politics. They dive into the challenges of censorship, the rise of book bans, and how their cartoons confront powerful figures. The duo explores the evolution of satire in today's polarized climate and debates the impact of AI on artistic expression. Their insightful conversation highlights the importance of creative freedom and the role of visuals in shaping political discourse.