
On with Kara Swisher
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.
Latest episodes

4 snips
Apr 4, 2024 • 48min
Can Food Save The World? with Joan Nathan
Joan Nathan, a renowned author and expert on Jewish cooking, shares her journey through culinary history in her memoir, "My Life in Recipes." She discusses the cultural significance of food, from family recipes to the evolution of dishes like matzo balls and hummus amid political tensions. Nathan reflects on how food connects people during conflicts and emphasizes the importance of preserving culinary traditions. The conversation touches on the impact of technology on American cuisine and explores the nuances of cultural appropriation in the culinary world.

5 snips
Apr 1, 2024 • 53min
"Food, Feminism, and Fury" with Geraldine DeRuiter
Geraldine DeRuiter, a James Beard award-winning food writer, dives deep into the intersections of food, feminism, and societal norms. She shares her viral experiences challenging renowned chefs and discusses the rampant sexism within the culinary scene. The conversation illuminates how societal stigmas shape our relationship with food and body image. Geraldine also candidly reflects on the backlash she faced for her views, the complexities of female anger, and the urgent need for accountability in dining practices.

10 snips
Mar 28, 2024 • 54min
Life Lessons from Tech Titans (Kara in conversation with Brené Brown)
In a lively conversation, a vulnerability expert draws out personal insights from a tech journalist, highlighting the life lessons learned from influential figures like Steve Jobs and Elon Musk. They discuss the dangers of nice guys in tech, the impact of mortality on creativity, and the ethical dilemmas of misinformation in social media. Humorously examining tech leadership, they tackle accountability and the role of platforms in shaping societal beliefs. Ultimately, they reflect on the importance of diversity and inclusion in the industry.

Mar 25, 2024 • 58min
Much Ado About TikTok
Alex Stamos, Chief Trust Officer at SentinelOne and cybersecurity expert, joins Taylor Lorenz, Washington Post columnist and cultural commentator, for a spirited discussion on the implications of a potential TikTok ban. They dive deep into data privacy concerns, national security issues, and the challenges of regulating social media. The duo examines TikTok's innovative algorithms and its impact on user engagement, while also considering alternatives to the platform and the broader geopolitical implications for U.S.-China tech relations.

6 snips
Mar 21, 2024 • 60min
Reddit CEO Steve Huffman on the IPO
Steve Huffman, co-founder and CEO of Reddit, takes center stage as he discusses the platform's pivotal IPO after 19 years. He shares insights on community sentiment and the impact of TikTok and ad strategies on Reddit's growth. Huffman reveals how the journey to going public was shaped by market conditions and internal decisions. He also touches on content moderation, the balance between user experience and ads, and Reddit's data partnerships with tech giants, offering a glimpse into the challenges and future of the platform.

Mar 18, 2024 • 51min
Margrethe Vestager Shows Tech Gatekeepers The Door
Margrethe Vestager, Executive Vice President of the European Commission, has been a formidable force in regulating Big Tech. She discusses her optimism about technology while enforcing stringent EU regulations like the Digital Markets Act. Vestager details the recent $2 billion fine on Apple and examines the balance between safety and innovation. The conversation also touches on the implications of the upcoming AI Act and reflects on her future after her term ends, providing insights into the evolving regulatory landscape.

Mar 15, 2024 • 44min
"Burn Book" Takes SxSW, with "Mensch" Mark Cuban
Mark Cuban, entrepreneur and owner of the Dallas Mavericks, joins the conversation at SXSW. He dives into the lack of female representation in the tech world, playfully challenging Kara on her book. The focus shifts to his healthcare venture, CostPlus Drug Company, and a fascinating theory on TikTok's potential divestiture, where he argues the platform's value diminishes without its algorithm. Cuban's wit and insight into these pressing topics make for a lively discussion.

Mar 14, 2024 • 49min
More Burn Book with Ted Sarandos
Ted Sarandos, Co-CEO of Netflix and a key player in its success, joins for a candid chat about the wild world of 90s tech culture. He reflects on his brief journalism stint and the transformative impact of tech on media. They tackle the rise of AI in creative spaces and the importance of protecting creators' rights from misuse. Additionally, Ted shares insights on the evolving landscape of partnerships and accountability in tech leadership, advocating for diversity and responsible innovation in the industry.

9 snips
Mar 11, 2024 • 46min
How did Kara Scoop OpenAI, and More on Burn Book (with Sam Altman)
Dive into a riveting conversation where tech mogul Sam Altman questions Kara Swisher about the dramatic events surrounding OpenAI. They dissect the power dynamics within the company and the recent Elon Musk lawsuit, all while balancing humor with serious themes. Reflecting on the past, they explore the struggles of accuracy in journalism amidst rampant misinformation. The episode also touches on the importance of teamwork in tech and the broader implications of technology in society. It's a blend of insight, wit, and candid storytelling!

17 snips
Mar 7, 2024 • 56min
Why Reed Jobs is Betting on Cancer Innovations
Reed Jobs, founder of Yosemite and son of Steve Jobs, shares his deep commitment to making cancer non-lethal, a mission influenced by his father's battle with the disease. He discusses innovative investment strategies in cancer treatment, emphasizing collaboration between philanthropy and biotechnology. Reed highlights the potential of AI, mRNA, and CRISPR in revolutionizing patient care and the critical need for early detection. His personal journey underscores the emotional stakes driving his work in advancing cancer research and the urgent realities faced today.