On with Kara Swisher

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.

Geoffrey Hinton, a pioneering machine learning researcher and Nobel laureate, shares his insights on the AI landscape. He discusses the existential risks posed by AI, including the threat of surveillance and misinformation. Hinton warns about the potential loss of jobs due to AI advancements and emphasizes the need for strict policies to regulate its use. He also explores the unique risks of superintelligence and the importance of creating AIs that prioritize human well-being. Finally, Hinton urges public involvement in shaping future AI policies.

Nick Foster, a futures designer and former head of design at Google X, explores the complexities of AI in this engaging conversation. He critiques the current AI hype cycle and emphasizes the need for practical approaches to technology. Foster advocates for a grounded mindset in futurism, discussing the balance between optimism and critical thinking. He warns against viewing AI solely as an efficiency tool and envisions a future where AI seamlessly integrates into daily life, designed with everyday users in mind.

In this engaging conversation, investigative journalist and five-time Pulitzer Prize winner Carol Leonnig discusses her insights on how Trump reshaped the Department of Justice. She explores the structural damage caused by political pressures, the missed FBI warnings before January 6, and how partisanship influenced the actions of figures like Bill Barr. Leonnig emphasizes the importance of restoring the DOJ's independence and highlights the dangerous implications of a politicized justice system, stressing the need for integrity moving forward.

Scott Galloway, a marketing professor at NYU and bestselling author, dives into themes from his book, *Notes on Being a Man*. He discusses the alarming trend of boys falling behind academically and socially, and stresses the need for aspirational masculinity. Galloway shares his struggles growing up without a father and the importance of mentorship for young men. He also tackles the allure of regressive masculinity in politics and calls for modern masculinity models. Through personal stories, he advocates for stronger connections and emotional awareness in fatherhood.

In this conversation, David Gelles, a New York Times reporter and author of 'Dirtbag Billionaire,' dives into the remarkable journey of Patagonia's founder, Yvon Chouinard. Gelles discusses how Chouinard redefined capitalism with sustainability in mind, contrasting it with tech billionaires. He explores Patagonia’s struggle between the mission and product development, tackles the pressing issues of greenwashing, and reveals the innovative ownership structure that ensures profits benefit the environment. Plus, hear thoughts on the role of AI in corporate responsibility.

In a lively conversation, Judd Apatow—writer, director, and producer known for hits like The 40-Year-Old Virgin—dives into the evolution of comedy. He shares insights from his visual memoir, discussing the cultural impact of his raunchy comedies and the challenges of navigating today's meme politics. Judd reflects on AI's role in comedy, pondering whether it can ever be genuinely funny. He also touches on the significance of mentorship and the need for authentic storytelling in a rapidly changing entertainment landscape.