On with Kara Swisher

Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber, leads the charge in AI and autonomous vehicles, showcasing how AI powers Uber’s pricing, routing, and deliveries. He emphasizes the potential of robotaxis and debates the future of human driving, suggesting society might opt for safer AVs over humans. Their discussion covers city planning for equity, risks of job displacement, and the urgent need for environmental progress with EV adoption. He also touches on Uber’s collaborations with other AV manufacturers and the transformative impact on urban mobility.

Sam Harris, a neuroscientist and author known for his sharp insights on ethics and technology, dives into Silicon Valley's political shift. He critiques tech moguls for embracing authoritarian politics and discusses how the left's excesses have radicalized some CEOs. Harris also warns about the risks AI poses to society and the dangers of misinformation. He reflects on his personal break with tech leaders and advocates for stronger regulation to combat the growing influence of tech oligarchs and protect democratic values.

Rachel Maddow, an incisive journalist and host of Burn Order, dives deep into the dark history of WWII Japanese incarceration, revealing hidden responsibilities and the alarming erosion of rights that still echoes today. She discusses the surprising role of a dedicated researcher and the chilling parallels to current mass-deportation policies. Maddow also critiques recent news controversies, such as boat strikes against alleged drug traffickers, and reflects on the evolving landscape of media as she navigates the impact of Trump's influence on journalism.

Margaret Atwood, the acclaimed Canadian author of The Handmaid's Tale, discusses her first memoir, Book of Lives. She explores the reasons for writing it in her 80s, revealing how her personal experiences shaped her creative process. Atwood shares insights on her love for nature, the duality of her identities as a writer and nature-lover, and the themes of hope within her dystopian narratives. She offers thoughts on politics, the evolution of social media, and the dark undercurrents of her writing, all while maintaining a hopeful perspective despite challenging times.

Beth Macy, award-winning reporter and author, shares insights from her memoir and discusses the opioid crisis and community decline. Jacob Silverman, an independent journalist, examines the link between tech billionaires and rural America under the MAGA umbrella. They explore the role of social media in political polarization, the decline of upward mobility, and how non-political activities can mend family ties. Their conversation also touches on tech elites' accountability and strategies for bridging divides between different social groups.

Tig Notaro, a multi-talented comedian, actor, and producer, shares her journey through grief following the loss of her friend, spoken word poet Andrea Gibson. She discusses creating a documentary, 'Come See Me in the Good Light', to celebrate Andrea’s life and humor. Tig reflects on her own battles with cancer and how those experiences shaped her views on grief. Their conversation touches on the evolution of comedy, the importance of personal narratives on stage, and Tig's exciting plans for an all-lesbian action film.

Independent journalist Jessica Yellin, former CNN chief White House correspondent and founder of News Not Noise, discusses the evolving landscape of media. She addresses how Trump's rhetoric has fueled public skepticism and the challenges posed by opaque algorithms. Yellin advocates for a certification system for evidence-based creators and suggests collaborations between legacy media and independent creators. She also emphasizes the role of AI as a tool for journalism, celebrating diverse voices while warning against the influence of money on responsible reporting.

Jennifer Welch, co-host of the provocative political podcast I've Had It, shares her journey from the Bible Belt to political commentary. She reveals her frustrations with centrist Democrats, sees potential in red state outreach, and critiques Trump’s media strategies. Welch discusses Marjorie Taylor Greene’s possible future and her insights on viral moments with political figures like Rahm Emanuel and Cory Booker. She emphasizes the need for Democrats to be authentic and engage with independent media to reclaim ground in overlooked regions.

Scott Jennings, a longtime Republican political operative and CNN commentator, shares insights from his new book about Trump’s presidency. He discusses his role on CNN's debate panels, likening the format to wrestling, and explains his complex relationship with Trump. Jennings explores the MAGA base's frustrations, the impact of the Epstein files, and the challenges of maintaining Trump's coalition. They also debate what 'common sense' means in Trump’s agenda and reflect on how Trump has transformed the GOP.

Ken Burns, the acclaimed documentary filmmaker known for his historical series, teams up with Sarah Botstein, a co-director of 'The American Revolution.' Together, they discuss the complexities of America's founding, highlighting George Washington's moral flaws amidst his leadership. The duo explores how enslaved African Americans perceived the British as a beacon of hope, challenging the notion of all Loyalists as traitors. They also stress the importance of uncovering nuanced history and civic engagement, revealing reasons to find hope in America's past.