On with Kara Swisher

Dr. Carolyn Bertozzi, a Nobel laureate from Stanford University, dives into her groundbreaking work in bioorthogonal chemistry. She discusses how identifying sugars in the body reveals insights about the 'dark matter of biology,' potentially transforming treatments for diseases like cancer and the flu. Bertozzi also addresses funding challenges in biology, the intricacies of being a lesbian in STEM, and the playful rivalry between chemists and biologists. Her passion for science shines as she highlights the need for clear communication in an often-misunderstood field.

Dive into the multifaceted world of Taylor Swift as the complex evolution of her artistry is explored. From her confessional songwriting to the societal misunderstandings she faces, the discussion highlights her unique position in music history. Parallels with icons like Joni Mitchell and Adele underscore her cultural impact. Plus, a quirky analysis of countertops in pop culture adds a humorous touch, revealing how even minor details capture the essence of artistic identity. Swift's future is debated amid reflections on accountability and authenticity.

Eric Idle, the legendary writer and comedian from Monty Python, joins the discussion on the evolving landscape of comedy. He reflects on how his iconic troupe pushed boundaries, which sparks a debate on what should be off-limits today. Idle shares personal insights from his battle with pancreatic cancer, emphasizing acceptance and the therapeutic power of humor. He also expresses his frustrations with social media and Elon Musk, highlighting the intersection of comedy, controversy, and modern sensitivities in a world demanding accountability.

Chris Licht, the Chairman and CEO of CNN Worldwide, shares his bold plans to navigate the network through tumultuous changes. He faces tough questions about his authority amidst organizational shake-ups and job cuts. The conversation touches on rebuilding trust with a worried journalism staff and tackling misinformation in today's media landscape. Licht also reveals strategies for covering Donald Trump during the impending election and discusses the evolving nature of citizen journalism. Join the dialogue on balancing news integrity with viewer engagement.

Dive into the enigma that is Elon Musk, as a seasoned reporter reflects on her journey with him since the late 90s. Explore the tumultuous shifts at Twitter and how they mirror Musk's complex persona. Unpack his emotional dance with the media and his politically charged decisions that stir controversy. The conversation exposes Musk's impulsive social media behavior and its societal repercussions, examining the duality of his influence and legacy in Silicon Valley. A blend of insight, controversy, and personal anecdotes creates a captivating portrait of a tech titan.

Yvonne Wingett Sanchez, a Democracy reporter for The Washington Post focusing on Arizona, joins Tia Mitchell from The Atlanta Journal-Constitution, covering Georgia, and Chris Potter of WESA FM, discussing Pennsylvania. They analyze the surprising midterm election outcomes, exploring how key issues like abortion and election denial shaped voter turnout. The trio delves into the internal struggles of state GOPs, the impact of Donald Trump, and the rising importance of local journalism in navigating political misinformation. Tune in for insights from these seasoned political reporters!

John King, a seasoned CNN political reporter, shares insights into the high-pressure world of election night coverage. He discusses how he preps for the iconic 'Magic Wall' and the strategies for making crucial election calls. The conversation dives into the impact of misinformation on social media, adaptability during unpredictable voting trends, and the pressures of transparent reporting. King also reflects on the importance of integrity in elections amidst a divided political landscape.

This week’s guest is John Legend, the multi-award-winning artist and social justice champion. He reflects on his friendship with Kanye West and its unraveling due to antisemitism. John also dives into how TikTok has transformed the music scene, affecting artists' power. He emphasizes his commitment to political activism, expressing concern for the future without any plans to run for office. Meanwhile, Kara passionately critiques Elon Musk’s recent Twitter moves, making her frustration with social media clear as the conversation unfolds.

In this discussion, Matt Levine, a Bloomberg Opinion columnist and creator of the 'MoneyStuff' newsletter, dives into Elon Musk's takeover of Twitter. He speculates on Musk's vision for the platform and how his engineering background might reshape its future. The conversation touches on potential shifts in content moderation, the ramifications for free speech, and even the possibility of reinstating previously banned users like Trump. Levine also examines the financial challenges facing Twitter, alongside the market dynamics affecting its next steps.

Join veteran pollster Frank Luntz, Lincoln Project co-founder Rick Wilson, and Republican strategist Sarah Longwell as they dissect the looming midterm elections. They discuss Trump's considerable impact on the Republican Party and the electoral landscape. The trio debates whether the party can distance itself from MAGA, tackling topics like election integrity and the rise of influential figures like Elon Musk in politics. They also explore the challenges Republican candidates face in a polarized environment and the evolving voter demographics that could sway outcomes.