

On with Kara Swisher
Vox Media
It's on. Twice a week, award-winning journalist Kara Swisher gets to the heart of the story through no-holds-barred interviews with power players across business, tech, media, politics and beyond. So why do her guests show up? “Smart people,” says Kara, “like difficult questions.”Mondays and Thursdays from New York Magazine and the Vox Media Podcast Network.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Nov 20, 2023 • 1h 3min
The Fox News ‘Lying Tax,’ Tucker and More with Brian Stelter
Brian Stelter, former host of CNN’s Reliable Sources and author of "Network of Lies," dives into the chaotic world of Fox News and its recent controversies. He reveals the implications of Tucker Carlson's firing, the fallout from Dominion and Smartmatic lawsuits, and the ethical responsibilities of media figures. Stelter also discusses the succession dynamics within Rupert Murdoch's empire and the challenges faced by CNN. With insider insights, he highlights the ongoing struggle between journalistic integrity and audience loyalty amidst a landscape rife with misinformation.

Nov 16, 2023 • 55min
Dan Doctoroff on Living with ALS and Building the Future
Dan Doctoroff, the former Deputy Mayor of New York City, discusses his notable achievements in urban development and the challenges of living with ALS since his diagnosis in 2021. He shares insights on the emotional journey of navigating this illness and highlights the importance of community support. Doctoroff also explores advancements in ALS research, emphasizing optimism for future treatments. Additionally, he reflects on how urban innovation and personal resilience intersect, showcasing his unwavering passion for city building despite personal adversity.

20 snips
Nov 13, 2023 • 59min
Adam Grant on Your Potential, Gen Z and — oops — Elon
In this engaging discussion, Adam Grant, an organizational psychologist and professor at Wharton, challenges the myth of innate talent, emphasizing that growth and adaptability drive success. He explores how Gen Z can navigate hybrid work environments and advocates for a focus on character over mere accolades in parenting. Grant also proposes an age limit for politicians, critiques current electoral processes, and even humorously psychoanalyzes Kara's frustrations with Elon Musk. This conversation is rich with insights for anyone looking to unlock their full potential.

Nov 9, 2023 • 53min
Can Mike Johnson Survive As House Speaker?
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.

4 snips
Nov 6, 2023 • 52min
The Twitter Fantasy from Land of the Giants
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.

15 snips
Nov 2, 2023 • 1h 8min
How Elon Broke Twitter — and Twitter Broke Elon — with Ben Mezrich
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!

9 snips
Oct 30, 2023 • 1h
Uber’s Profit, Power and Problems with CEO Dara K
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.

7 snips
Oct 26, 2023 • 52min
Alexis Ohanian and Deb Roy on Big Tech’s Effects on Democracy
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.

10 snips
Oct 23, 2023 • 1h
The Fog of War: Navigating Disinformation Now
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.

4 snips
Oct 19, 2023 • 42min
Christiane Amanpour on Covering This War
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.


