On with Kara Swisher

Join Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist Ronan Farrow and financial expert William Cohan as they dissect Elon Musk's overwhelming influence on national security and business. Farrow dives into his New Yorker profile on Musk, revealing the tech mogul's unprecedented control over vital infrastructure. Cohan sheds light on the financial ups and downs of SpaceX, Tesla, and Twitter. The discussion also navigates Musk's accountability, the challenges of concentrated power, and how his ways spark both innovation and controversy in today's world.

Imani Rupert-Gordon, the Executive Director of the National Center for Lesbian Rights, highlights the growing threats to LGBTQ+ rights, particularly for trans youth. She discusses how misinformation complicates battles over these rights and the dangerous trend of anti-LGBTQ legislation across states like Florida and North Carolina. Rupert-Gordon emphasizes the importance of community advocacy and storytelling as powerful tools in countering discrimination. The conversation reflects on the need for continued vigilance amid a changing political landscape.

Jonathan Kanter, the Assistant Attorney General for the DOJ's Antitrust Division, and Doha Mekki, Principal Deputy AAG, delve into the evolving landscape of antitrust law. They discuss newly drafted merger guidelines that target giants like Amazon and Apple, shedding light on how these regulations aim to enhance competition. The pair also reflect on recent landmark rulings and the critical importance of protecting consumer rights in an era dominated by powerful tech companies. Their insights reveal the ongoing struggle for fair competition in a rapidly changing market.

In a heartfelt conversation, two best friends, one a driven achiever and the other sharing emotions openly, confront their long-standing bond. They explore the unspoken tensions of two decades, revealing how cultural backgrounds and family histories shape their relationship. Their dialogue digs deep into vulnerabilities, the impact of growing up in a homophobic environment, and the necessity for honest communication. They also highlight the joy found in rituals that strengthen friendship without sacrificing personal growth.

Mike Birbiglia, a comedian and writer celebrated for his Broadway storytelling, dives deep into the themes of aging, mortality, and parenthood in this engaging conversation. He shares his personal fears surrounding heart surgery and humorously reflects on the connections we forge as we age. The duo explores how comedy can emerge from loss and the transformative power of vulnerability. Birbiglia also discusses the evolving landscape of comedy, including how new platforms are reshaping the art while balancing the fine line between humor and social responsibility.

Join John Fetterman, Pennsylvania's Lieutenant Governor and Senate candidate, as he shares his journey of recovery from a stroke. The conversation touches on the intersection of health and politics, emphasizing the need for empathy in public discourse. Fetterman reflects on the pressures of campaigning while dealing with personal challenges. They delve deep into authenticity in storytelling, discussing the impact of vulnerability on connections with voters. Alongside Esther Perel, they explore how to navigate grief, elevating the conversation to encompass resilience and humanity.

Chris Christie, the former governor of New Jersey and a current presidential candidate, dives deep into his position as a self-proclaimed anti-Trump figure. He reflects on his fluctuating relationship with Trump and the complexity of appealing to disillusioned voters. Christie discusses potential paths within the political landscape, especially if Trump steps aside, while grappling with ethical controversies and legal troubles that could impact his campaign. Amidst all this, he explores the crucial early primaries and the emotional connections voters maintain with Trump.

Vinod Khosla, a renowned venture capitalist and co-founder of Sun Microsystems, shares his visionary insights on technology and society. He argues that AI could liberate humanity from traditional work, transforming our economic structure. Khosla also delves into the geopolitical tensions between the U.S. and China over technology, emphasizing the need for effective regulation. His early investments in climate tech highlight a critical intersection of innovation and sustainability, forecasting both opportunities and challenges ahead.

Kara Swisher chats with Matthew Belloni, an entertainment journalist from Puck News; Franklin Leonard, founder of The Blacklist; and Brooke Hammerling, communications expert and pop culture authority. They dive into the impressive box office success of 'Barbie' and 'Oppenheimer' during the industry strikes. They discuss whether this cinematic surge is a trend or a one-off event, the role of community in shaping film choices, and the challenges faced by female filmmakers in a struggling landscape. Their insights reveal the complexities of Hollywood today.

A commencement address offers a humorous reflection on attire and the legacy of an esteemed institution, emphasizing creativity in a tech-driven world. The speaker champions individuality, urging graduates to challenge norms for personal growth. They share tales of digital transformation, from early tech encounters to social media's societal impact, stressing the need for responsible practices. A light-hearted reminder encourages stepping outside the digital realm to appreciate real-life experiences, leaving graduates with both wisdom and warmth.