On with Kara Swisher

Katherine Maher, CEO of NPR and former advocate for digital civil rights at Access Now, discusses the fierce political attacks on public media funding. She touches on NPR's legal battle against the Trump administration's executive order threatening federal support. The conversation delves into challenges of upholding journalistic integrity, navigating criticisms, and the vital role of NPR in underserved communities. Maher also emphasizes the need for innovation in media amidst evolving digital landscapes and political complexities.

Jesse Armstrong, the Oscar-nominated and Emmy-winning creator of Succession, dives into the chaos of wealth and technology in his latest HBO film, Mountainhead. He discusses how tech billionaires navigate ambition and ethics during a disastrous poker retreat, highlighting deepfake horrors and their real-world implications. Armstrong critiques the tech oligarchy's influence over society, comparing them to legacy media moguls like Rupert Murdoch. He also delves into the societal impact of AI on creativity and the complex dynamics of male friendships within the cutthroat tech industry.

Jeffrey Goldberg, Editor-in-chief of The Atlantic, shares his candid insights on the dynamics of Trump’s administration and the broader political landscape. He discusses Trump’s media tactics, emphasizing how attention often overshadowed national security. The conversation delves into political accountability, revealing critical intersections between mismanagement and public health. Goldberg also critiques the media's struggles to balance sensationalism with serious journalism, while addressing the challenges facing the Democratic Party in a digitally driven age.

Maggie Haberman, a New York Times reporter known for chronicling Trump, joins the discussion on his turbulent state of mind. They dive into the alarming disinformation from the White House and Trump’s troubling relationship with the Supreme Court. Haberman highlights Stephen Miller's significant influence in the administration and examines the paradox of Elon Musk's diminishing public presence. The conversation also touches upon Trump’s retaliation against both institutions and individuals, illustrating the chaotic landscape of current politics.

In a lively discussion, Gary Rivlin, a Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter and author of 'AI Valley,' joins Christy Wyskiel, senior advisor at Johns Hopkins University, to explore the competitive AI landscape. They examine how smaller startups can thrive amidst tech giants, the impact of government funding cuts on innovation, and the implications of recent massive investments, including the $40 billion that went to OpenAI. The conversation also highlights AI's transformative potential in healthcare, especially in diagnostics.

Karen Hao is a tech reporter known for her insights on AI and author of "Empire of AI." Keach Hagey, from The Wall Street Journal, dives into Altman's journey in "The Optimist." They discuss the meteoric rise of OpenAI post-ChatGPT and the complexities of its nonprofit to profit transition. The conversation explores Sam Altman's leadership, including the curious circumstances of his firing and reinstatement, and the critical implications for AGI. They highlight the need for ethical governance in AI amidst growing political and economic pressures.

Barry Diller, the media mogul behind the Movie of the Week and FOX, shares his journey from a challenging childhood to shaping pop culture. He discusses his thoughts on Elon Musk and Trump, and the intersection of technology with media. Diller reflects on the challenges of running IAC in the evolving digital landscape and the complexities of celebrity culture. The conversation also delves into personal anecdotes, highlighting the importance of kindness and vulnerability in the public eye as well as navigating family and career.

Jordan Klepper, co-host and correspondent for The Daily Show, dives into the evolving MAGAsphere, highlighting the surge of young conservatives and their shifting beliefs. He shares insights from his special on the next-gen MAGA movement, exploring the influence of figures like Andrew Tate and Joe Rogan on modern masculinity. The discussion touches on the challenges progressive voices face in connecting with youth and the role of political comedy in today’s media landscape. Expect a mix of humor and serious reflections on politics and culture.

Christiane Amanpour, CNN's chief international anchor and co-host of The Ex Files, dives deep into global conflicts—from the escalating violence in Gaza to tensions between India and Pakistan. She sheds light on how Trump's trade wars are reshaping diplomacy. The discussion also touches on evolving journalism amid rising partisanship and the importance of credibility in reporting. Additionally, she explores the complex dynamics of U.S.-China relations, underscoring the pressing need for dialogue to prevent conflict.

Join Ashley Parker, a political writer at The Atlantic, Carol Leonnig, a best-selling investigative reporter, and Ben Terris, a Washington correspondent for New York Magazine, as they unravel the tumultuous early days of Trump’s second term. They discuss chaotic executive actions, low approval ratings, and Republican loyalty challenges. With insights into Elon Musk's influence on economics and budget priorities, they explore the potential long-term implications of Trump's presidency on governance, transparency, and personal freedoms.