On with Kara Swisher

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.

Brooke Jenkins, the San Francisco District Attorney known for her tough stance on public safety, dives into the complexities of policing in a rapidly changing political landscape. She discusses how the recent shifts in crime narratives have influenced her approach, including revoking plea deals and treating teen offenders as adults. Jenkins shares her perspective on the balance between accountability and reform, while tackling the challenges she faces as a woman of color in a controversial role. Is she a conservative or a progressive? The debate rages on!

Sangeeta Singh-Kurtz, a journalist and co-host of "Land of the Giants: Dating Games," dives into the intriguing world of online dating alongside industry veteran Lakshmi Rengarajan. They unravel the influence of Match Group, dominating the dating app market with brands like Tinder and Hinge. The conversation tackles how these apps monetize connections, the shift in user experiences, and the ongoing quest for genuine relationships in a profit-driven environment. Plus, they reflect on the journey from online dating's dubious past to its current status.

The discussion kicks off with the surprising decision to reinstate Donald Trump on social media. Tensions arise as they unpack Mark Zuckerberg’s complex relationship with power and accountability. The podcast also shares the story of pivotal hiring decisions that stabilized Facebook and contrasts Zuckerberg’s leadership style with Elon Musk's. With a critical lens on management during crises like Cambridge Analytica, the hosts explore the consequences of tech leadership decisions, all while contemplating Zuckerberg's vision for the future.

Jessica Lessin, founder of The Information, and William Cohan, investment banker and founding partner at Puck News, delve into the tumultuous state of the tech industry. They analyze the dramatic stock price falls and recent recoveries of major players like Meta and Netflix. The duo discusses the potential for a shift in tech leadership and the impact of layoffs on innovation. Cohan shares insights on Wall Street's response, while Lessin proposes that it's time for a change at the top, highlighting the need for adaptability in this new economic landscape.

Tim Wu, former Special Assistant to the President for Technology and Competition Policy, shares insights from his time in the West Wing. He discusses the significant influence of Lina Khan on antitrust efforts and why President Biden struggles to advance tech regulation despite his campaign promises. Wu predicts potential lawsuits against major tech giants like Google and Amazon. The conversation also delves into the political landscape, reflecting on recent exits like Jacinda Ardern and the complexities of regulating social media platforms.

In this riveting debate, Anthony Scaramucci, a business strategist and former White House communications director, joins Kara Swisher to tackle a bold question: Is Elon Musk killing Twitter? They dive into Musk's controversial management style and its impact on user engagement and free speech. Scaramucci offers unique insights based on his personal connections with Musk, while discussing the platform's financial challenges and cultural significance. Will Musk rejuvenate Twitter or lead it on a path to decline? Tune in for a thought-provoking discussion.

Brooke Hammerling, a strategic communications expert, teams up with Patrick Harverson, former communications chief for Prince Charles, and Catherine Mayer, author of "Charles: Heart of a King." They dive into the royal family's response to Prince Harry's memoir "Spare," discussing the monarchy's resilience amid media frenzy. The trio reveals insights on how Harry's revelations reflect shifts in societal values and the complex interplay between celebrity culture and public perception. They also explore themes of grief and the evolving royal narrative.