On with Kara Swisher

Walter Isaacson, renowned biographer of icons like Steve Jobs and Leonardo da Vinci, dives deep into the complexities of Elon Musk. He discusses whether Musk's drive is fueled by narcissism or a genuine mission. The conversation touches on Musk's controversial moments, comparing him to Jobs, and explores the challenges of capturing the essence of such a multifaceted figure. Isaacson also reflects on the dynamics of leadership in Silicon Valley and the intricate relationships that shape innovative minds, providing a candid look at the man behind the myth.

Join Jamie Lee Curtis, an Oscar-nominated star known for her diverse roles and fierce entrepreneurial spirit, alongside Donna Langley, head of Universal Film Studio who brought us hits like "Cocaine Bear." They dive into the surprising success of the "Halloween" revival, revealing how it transformed Curtis's career. The duo also reflects on the unique journey behind "Cocaine Bear" and its unexpected box office triumph. Plus, insights on shifting Hollywood roles and the importance of female representation make this a must-listen!

Marc Benioff, CEO and co-founder of Salesforce, engages in a lively discussion with Kara Swisher. They navigate a range of hot topics, including his strong earnings report and the impact of activist investors, which he surprisingly finds 'fun.' Benioff shares his thoughts on Elon Musk's public persona and its complexities. The conversation also dives into the emotional challenges of tech layoffs and the shifting dynamics of work post-pandemic, highlighting the pressing need for flexibility and transparency in leadership.

Yusuf Mehdi, Microsoft's Corporate VP and consumer chief marketing officer, discusses the transformative power of AI and its applications in products like Bing. He delves into the ambitious capabilities of AI, touching on user experiences and the ethical considerations surrounding new technology. Mehdi reflects on the competitive dynamics between Bing and Google, the nuances of AI development, and how Microsoft's partnership with OpenAI is shaping the future. The conversation also highlights Bill Gates' perspective on the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence.

Richard Haass, President of the Council on Foreign Relations, dives deep into America's shifting global standing post-Trump. He discusses the ramifications of the Ukraine conflict, emphasizing how U.S. credibility is waning and needs reassessment. The conversation touches on America's declining soft power and the challenges of managing relations with China. Haass also highlights the importance of civic responsibility amid rising political violence, urging the need for informed citizenship in today's turbulent political climate.

In this engaging discussion, Stanford Law professor Evelyn Douek, National Constitution Center leader Jeffrey Rosen, and UC Berkeley’s Hany Farid tackle the contentious issue of Section 230. They explore the legal battles surrounding tech accountability and whether removing this immunity could reshape the internet. The conversation dives into the balance of free speech and corporate responsibility, the implications of algorithm-driven content, and the urgent need for regulatory frameworks in a monopolized digital landscape.

Trae Stephens, co-founder and Executive Chairman of Anduril Industries, delves into the revolutionary role of AI in national security. He discusses the shift in defense tech dynamics, challenging traditional giants like Lockheed Martin with innovations from Silicon Valley. The conversation explores the use of drones in Ukraine and the ethical concerns surrounding military applications, including autonomous systems. Trae emphasizes the need for balancing technological advancement with human oversight, especially in sensitive areas like border security.

Congressman Ken Buck from Colorado, an outspoken critic of Big Tech and author of "Crushed: Big Tech's War on Free Speech," dives into his proposed TikTok ban and the fight for antitrust legislation. He discusses the implications of Big Tech on free speech, especially concerning youth mental health. Ken also shares insights on the challenges of regulating tech giants like Facebook and Apple, emphasizing the need for public engagement in protecting competition and the complexities of balancing free speech with accountability in the digital age.

Ruben Gallego, a progressive Arizona Congressman running for the U.S. Senate, tackles the evolving political landscape. He discusses facing off against 'Queen MAGA' Kari Lake and why he's unphased by Kyrsten Sinema's possible run as an independent. Gallego dives into identity politics, addressing societal expectations while humorously navigating sensitive topics. He emphasizes grassroots engagement and the broader implications of political alignments in Arizona, painting a vivid picture of the upcoming electoral battle.

Faiz Shakir, Bernie Sanders's 2020 campaign manager, Jennifer Palmieri, former White House Communications Director, and Tom Bonier, CEO of TargetSmart, engage in a lively discussion about the Democratic Party's current landscape. They delve into how Marjorie Taylor Greene's antics during the State of the Union unexpectedly boosted Biden’s image. They also explore the Democrats' narrative strategies and challenges in reconnecting with working-class voters, the shifting dynamics of youth engagement, and the implications of Trump’s influence on the 2024 race.