On with Kara Swisher

Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Suzan-Lori Parks, known for her compelling explorations of race and history, joins for a thought-provoking discussion. She delves into her latest play, 'Sally & Tom,' which examines the complex relationship between Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings. The conversation tackles America’s tendencies to gloss over its past, the importance of revising historical narratives, and how art can foster dialogue about uncomfortable truths. Parks emphasizes that confronting history with honesty is an act of love.

Senator Maria Cantwell, a former tech executive and the chair of the Senate Commerce Committee, discusses her groundbreaking American Privacy Rights Act that aims to establish stronger data privacy protections. She reflects on her early experiences at RealNetworks and the evolution of privacy in technology, addressing the urgent need for effective laws amid big tech's influence. Furthermore, she delves into the controversial TikTok divestment bill, highlighting its constitutional implications, bipartisan efforts, and the broader challenges surrounding global tech regulation.

In this discussion, Dmitri Alperovitch, co-founder of CrowdStrike, and Chris Krebs, former CISA director, tackle the pressing threat posed by China. They share insights on the strategic importance of Taiwan and the complexities of U.S.-China relations. The conversation includes how cyber threats and technology intertwine with geopolitical tensions. Both experts emphasize the need for diplomacy and the lessons learned from Ukraine, highlighting the critical role of semiconductor production and the potential impact of a Chinese invasion on global stability.

Shefali Luthra, a journalist with The 19th covering abortion issues, Sarah McCammon, NPR's national political correspondent, and Mary Jo Pitzl, a senior reporter for the Arizona Republic, delve deep into the political implications of abortion rights post-Dobbs. They discuss how recent bans, particularly in Arizona, are shaping electoral strategies and influencing public sentiment. The conversation highlights the surprising rise in abortion numbers and the challenges facing women seeking care, all while questioning how these factors could impact the upcoming election.

Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist and NYU professor, shares insights from his book, The Anxious Generation, discussing the potential dangers of smartphones and social media on Gen Z’s mental health. He argues that these technologies are fueling anxiety and sleep issues among youth, sparking a heated debate among researchers. Haidt also tackles the complexities of modern parenting, the impacts of social media on identity, and proposes solutions to regulate youth smartphone use. The conversation is both thought-provoking and critical in understanding today's digital landscape.

Jim Lanzone, CEO of Yahoo and a seasoned leader from Ask.com, CBS, and Tinder, discusses revitalizing Yahoo's legacy in the digital age. He shares his vision for modernizing Yahoo's products, focusing on AI integration and enhancing user experience. Lanzone also addresses challenges from industry giants while exploring potential mergers and an IPO. Nostalgically, he reminisces about the tech industry's evolution, reflecting on the promise of the early internet and the need for quality journalism amidst the digital landscape.

Nina Jankowicz, a noted disinformation researcher and former head of the Disinformation Governance Board, joins journalist Sasha Issenberg and law professor Barbara McQuade to tackle the escalating threat of political disinformation. They delve into how tactics have evolved since 2016, highlighting the shift from foreign to domestic misinformation. The discussion emphasizes the urgent need for information literacy, technological accountability, and collective action to safeguard democracy, especially as the 2024 elections loom.

Timothy Ryback, a historian and author of "Takeover: Hitler’s Final Rise to Power," offers a deep dive into the political dynamics leading to Hitler's chancellorship. He reveals how misjudgments by Berlin power players contributed to Hitler's unexpected rise. Ryback draws alarming parallels between Hitler’s manipulation tactics and today’s political landscape, particularly relating to Trump. The conversation also highlights overlooked figures like Gregor Strasser, underscoring how internal conflicts shaped history. Listeners are urged to recognize and learn from these historical lessons to safeguard democracy.

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.

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.