On with Kara Swisher

Nia-Malika Henderson, a CNN political analyst, Tina Nguyen, a national correspondent at Puck, and Marianna Sotomayor, a congressional reporter at The Washington Post, dissect Mike Johnson's surprising rise as House Speaker. They delve into his linked ideologies to the MAGA movement, the potential fallout for LGBTQ+ rights, and the implications for 2024 elections. The trio analyzes internal GOP tensions, Johnson's inexperience, and the balance between traditional values and modern political issues, capturing the chaotic landscape of U.S. politics.

A nostalgic look at Twitter's rise and fall reveals the platform's tumultuous history under Elon Musk. Discover how early users shaped its culture and the significance of Black Twitter as a cultural force. The discussion highlights innovative user-driven features like hashtags, while also addressing the dark side of online trolls and harassment. Crucial moments, including Twitter's responses to crises, illustrate the platform's evolving identity as both a voice for the community and a battleground for control.

Join Ben Mezrich, author of "Breaking Twitter" and the mind behind hits like "The Social Network," as he dives into the chaotic world of Elon Musk's Twitter takeover. He explores the delicate dance of blending hard facts with fiction while dissecting Musk's influence on social media and free speech. The conversation takes a playful turn when the trio brainstorms ideal actors to portray Musk in film, weighing in on options from Vince Vaughn to a surprise character from 'Succession.' Expect sharp insights and entertaining banter!

Dara Khosrowshahi, CEO of Uber and former Expedia chief, discusses the complexities of running Uber. He shares insights on rising prices and the company’s take rate, revealing a 15% rate in the U.S. versus 29.3% globally. Dara candidly addresses driver treatment and safety initiatives, including new features to protect vulnerable riders. The conversation also touches on the challenges of maintaining profitability while adapting to a competitive landscape, especially in the wake of his predecessor's controversial leadership.

Join Alexis Ohanian, Reddit co-founder and venture capitalist, alongside Deb Roy, MIT professor and director of the Center for Constructive Communication, as they delve into the pressing challenges democracy faces from Big Tech. They discuss the evolution of Reddit and advocate for a shift towards constructive digital engagement. The duo critiques the internet’s advertising-driven business model, explores misinformation's grip on public discourse, and examines how tech platforms can encourage authentic interactions in our increasingly fragmented online world.

Renée DiResta, a research manager at the Stanford Internet Observatory, and Katie Harbath, a former public policy director at Facebook, dive deep into the world of disinformation during conflicts. They discuss the chaos of social media narratives amid the Israel-Hamas war and the challenges of verifying online content. With insights into how platforms handle misinformation and the emotional toll on content moderators, they emphasize the importance of credible journalism and critically assessing information sources in a fogged landscape.

Christiane Amanpour, CNN's Chief International Anchor with decades of experience in the Middle East, discusses the ongoing conflict in Israel and Gaza. She highlights the challenges journalists face in a landscape filled with misinformation, emphasizing the need for 'truthful, not neutral' reporting. Amanpour explores the emotional toll of covering trauma and the moral dilemmas that arise amidst such crises. She also examines the geopolitical implications of recent events and the broader humanitarian crisis, urging the importance of understanding the complexities of the situation.

Fei-Fei Li, a pioneering AI researcher and Stanford professor, shares her hopes and concerns about the future of artificial intelligence. She discusses the immediate risks of AI, including disinformation and job displacement, while advocating for humane development practices. The conversation also dives into the need for increased diversity in tech, public sector investment, and the challenges faced by independent creators. Li emphasizes the importance of a human-centered approach to ensure AI benefits society as a whole.

Steve Inskeep, NPR journalist and author of "Differ We Must," discusses the art of navigating disagreement by looking to Abraham Lincoln's political genius during a divided era. He illustrates how Lincoln fostered coalitions and embraced differing viewpoints, offering insights for today's polarized climate. The conversation also creatively imagines Lincoln's potential social media presence while critiquing the current political landscape and the challenges of journalistic objectivity. Inskeep's reflections make for a thought-provoking exploration of politics, past and present.

Martha Stewart, a media mogul and lifestyle influencer, shares her impressive journey at 81, emphasizing her endless reinvention and adaptability. She discusses her pioneering interest in technology and memorable parties with icons like Bill Gates. Listeners will be intrigued by her ambitions for "MarthaAI" and reflections on her historic Sports Illustrated cover. Martha opens up about overcoming challenges, including past legal troubles, and highlights the entrepreneurial spirit crucial for success in a rapidly changing media landscape.