On with Kara Swisher

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.

Join Jon Lovett, a political commentator and podcaster from Crooked Media, as he dives into the chaotic aftermath of Kevin McCarthy's ousting and what it means for the GOP. He discusses Trump's continuing influence and the challenges facing Biden in the upcoming election. The conversation shifts to the evolving podcasting landscape, touching on the impact of unions and the saturation of the market. Lovett’s sharp wit shines as they explore the intertwining of politics and pop culture while navigating voter sentiments and campaign strategies.

Adam Kinzinger, a former Republican congressman and author of "Renegade," discusses his unique position as a voice against Trumpism within the GOP. He reflects on the high cost of his impeachment vote and shares insights from the "Trump Resistance" text chain. Kinzinger elaborates on the reluctance of many Republicans to oppose Trump despite recognizing him as a threat to democracy. The conversation also touches on the psychological challenges faced by anti-Trump Republicans and the need for unity among them to safeguard democratic principles.

Yoel Roth, former head of trust and safety at Twitter/X and now a visiting scholar at UPenn, delves into the complexities of online safety and misinformation. Linda Yaccarino, CEO of X, discusses her strategic vision for the platform, emphasizing free expression and user engagement. The podcast captures the tension between their perspectives, particularly around advertising losses and the challenge of navigating public perception. Personal anecdotes reveal the emotional toll of leadership, making this a captivating clash of ideas in the evolving tech landscape.