On with Kara Swisher

Roberta Kaplan, a renowned litigator celebrated for her powerful court victories, shares insights from her high-profile case against Donald Trump, which resulted in an $83.3 million verdict for E. Jean Carroll. She discusses the implications of this ruling on Trump's public image and political future. Kaplan also reflects on the state of LGBTQ+ rights today, recalling her role in championing marriage equality, while addressing the threats posed to free speech by wealthy individuals like Elon Musk. Her blend of legal expertise and personal anecdotes makes for a captivating listen.

Paul Giamatti, known for his roles in 'Sideways' and 'Billions,' discusses his latest film, 'The Holdovers,' which resonates with personal themes of connection and friendship. He shares insights about crafting the complex character of D.A. Chuck Rhoades and the challenges of multi-season storytelling. With humor, he explores the origins of his podcast 'Chinwag,' which dives into metaphysics and UFOs. Giamatti also reflects on balancing career ambitions, the emotional rollercoaster of award seasons, and future ventures in a shifting entertainment landscape.

In this engaging conversation, Brooke Shields, an iconic actress and model known for her roles in 'Pretty Baby' and 'Blue Lagoon,' opens up about the perils of growing up under the Hollywood limelight. She reflects on her early hypersexualized roles and the challenges she faced, including her complex relationship with her mother and the impact of social media on young girls today. Shields also discusses how she now advises her own daughters to navigate these turbulent waters, emphasizing the importance of safety and self-worth amidst fame.

Cord Jefferson, a writer and director known for 'American Fiction,' which earned five Oscar nominations, dives into the transformative influence of satire and storytelling. He shares how Percival Everett’s novel 'Erasure' inspired his film adaptation and critiques racial stereotypes in the publishing industry. Jefferson reflects on navigating identity and representation in Hollywood while discussing the challenges of complex character development. He also teases future projects, including an erotic thriller and a contemporary Western, showcasing his creative aspirations.

Lydia Polgreen, a New York Times opinion columnist; Maura Johnston, a Boston music critic; and Estelle Caswell, a former Vox journalist, dive into the enduring impact of Tracy Chapman's debut album. They explore why its messages of social justice resonate with Gen Z today. The conversation also highlights the significance of music covers and the role of Black artists in country music, alongside reflections on poetic themes present in Chapman's work. The guests celebrate women in music through Joni Mitchell’s Grammy comeback and discuss the cultural relevance of Gen X artists.

Rahm Emanuel, the U.S. Ambassador to Japan and former mayor of Chicago, shares insights from his extensive political career. He discusses Japan's evolving role in global defense and its significance in U.S. relations, particularly in countering China. Emanuel reflects on the possible Biden-Trump rematch and its implications for American politics. He also touches on family dynamics with his brother, adding a humorous twist to the conversation. The combination of diplomatic strategy and personal anecdotes makes for an engaging listen.

Joanna Stern, a tech columnist at The Wall Street Journal, Nilay Patel from The Verge, and Bloomberg's Mark Gurman delve into Apple's ambitious Vision Pro headset. They discuss its hefty $3500 price tag and the market's readiness for it. The trio critiques its rocky debut, weighing its potential against iconic products like the iPhone. They also explore the challenges of spatial computing and privacy concerns, while humorously noting the device’s limitations compared to competitors. Insightful banter reveals both excitement and skepticism about the future of wearable tech.

Ava DuVernay, the acclaimed director behind films like 'Selma' and '13th,' joins the conversation to unveil her latest project, 'Origin.' She shares the challenges of transforming Isabel Wilkerson's 'Caste' into a compelling narrative without major studio backing, leveraging support from philanthropists instead. The discussion touches on the importance of authentic representation in film, the need for accountability in a shifting political landscape, and how storytelling can ignite dialogues around systemic inequality and inspire societal change.

Judy Woodruff, a seasoned journalist with over fifty years of experience, shares her insights on America’s growing polarization and the media's role in it. She discusses her project, "America at a Crossroads," highlighting the challenges journalists face in maintaining integrity amid misinformation. Woodruff reflects on the evolving landscape of public broadcasting and stresses the importance of journalistic truthfulness. The conversation also touches on the complexities of political divisions as we approach the 2024 election and the hopeful possibilities for unity.

Josh Shapiro, the Governor of Pennsylvania and former Attorney General, shares insights on his 'Get Sh*t Done' approach to governance. He discusses strategies for handling a divided legislature, the importance of election integrity ahead of a potential Trump-Biden rematch, and a new pilot project using generative AI in state government. Shapiro also addresses the rise of antisemitism, his role as a non-voting trustee at the University of Pennsylvania, and the need for bipartisan cooperation on key issues like education and public safety.