

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

12 snips
Jan 16, 2023 • 51min
Ian Bremmer on Putin, Xi…and Elon Musk
Ian Bremmer, President of Eurasia Group and a top advisor on geopolitical risks, delves into pressing global challenges. He discusses the precarious situation in Ukraine and the political crisis in Brazil, highlighting social media's role in extremism. Bremmer boldly compares tech CEOs like Elon Musk to authoritarian leaders, raising alarms about the influence of disinformation on democracy. He also analyzes the implications of Russia's isolation and growing geopolitical tensions with China, emphasizing the urgent need for strategic, democratic resilience.

Jan 12, 2023 • 49min
What’s Next for GOP & Trump – w/Charlie Sykes & Manu Raju
Manu Raju, CNN's Chief Congressional Correspondent, and Charlie Sykes, conservative commentator and founder of The Bulwark, dive into the chaos of the Republican Party. They discuss the recent power struggles surrounding Kevin McCarthy's Speakership and the rising tensions between Trump and DeSantis. The duo analyzes the fragmentation within the GOP, the challenges of extreme factions, and speculates on the implications for the upcoming 2024 presidential race. Their insights provide a gripping view of politics as they assess the prospects for both Republicans and Democrats.

Jan 9, 2023 • 47min
Are You “Dying of Politeness”? Geena Davis Explains.
Geena Davis, an Oscar-winning actress famed for her roles in "Thelma & Louise" and "A League of Their Own," shares her journey through Hollywood's challenging landscape. She discusses the perils of extreme politeness that often silenced her, as well as the systemic issues women face in the industry. Davis reflects on early sexualization in film and its societal impacts, while also emphasizing the importance of assertiveness and representation in entertainment. The conversation sheds light on personal growth and the strides toward better female representation in media.

9 snips
Jan 5, 2023 • 1h 2min
Peering into the Future with Tony Fadell
Tony Fadell, the "father of the iPod," discusses his journey from revolutionizing music with pocket-sized devices to leading climate tech innovations. He shares insights on Apple's need to embrace broader ideas beyond cars, critiques Google's innovation struggles, and highlights the hopeful future of companies that address climate change. Fadell also entertains a candid debate on whether being an "asshole" is essential for success in tech, while advocating for responsible design in battling tech addiction.

36 snips
Dec 29, 2022 • 51min
Love, Life & Other Advice from Kara and Nayeema
Kara and Nayeema offer candid advice on love, career, and tricky family dynamics, blending humor with insightful answers to listener questions. They navigate the challenges of dating and differing values, while also discussing salary negotiations and prioritizing experiences in life. The lively dialogue includes reflections on parenting, societal influences, and even some unexpected fashion tips. Don't miss the ultimate escape plan that involves an island getaway and a donut shop—perfect for daydreaming!

Dec 26, 2022 • 1h 13min
The Legacy of Steve Jobs
Tim Cook, CEO of Apple, who succeeded Steve Jobs; Sir Jony Ive, co-founder of LoveFrom and a key designer for Apple; and Laurene Powell Jobs, founder of Emerson Collective and Steve's widow, share heartfelt insights on his enduring legacy. They discuss how Jobs’ values of privacy and ethical design are crucial today. The trio reflects on design's emotional resonance, the impact of visionary leadership, and the importance of creativity over profit. Personal anecdotes reveal the depth of Jobs' influence on technology and individual lives.

13 snips
Dec 22, 2022 • 53min
Casey Newton, Kara & Nayeema Talk Tech
Join Casey Newton, founder of Platformer, and Nayeema Raza, tech journalist and event moderator, as they dive into the chaos of Twitter 2.0 and the wild world of crypto. They discuss Elon Musk's dramatic impact on Twitter, the fall of crypto giant FTX, and the evolving power dynamics between tech workers and executives. AI's looming presence in our jobs and the clash of ethics in Silicon Valley also take center stage. Expect sharp wit and insightful commentary on today's tech landscape!

Dec 19, 2022 • 1h 7min
Piers Morgan On Murdoch, Musk and – yes – Meghan Markle
Piers Morgan, a renowned journalist known for his bold opinions and work at Fox Nation, discusses the toxic landscapes of tabloids and social media. He reflects on his controversial encounters with figures like Meghan Markle and Donald Trump, emphasizing the blurred lines between authenticity and performance in media. Morgan also critiques the impact of censorship and free speech in journalism, sharing insights from his experiences in the evolving world of celebrity culture and political discourse.

4 snips
Dec 15, 2022 • 51min
Fox News, Dominion — oh, and Donald Trump
Jeremy Peters, a New York Times reporter covering the landmark Dominion Voting Systems defamation case against Fox News, delves into the potential consequences of media misinformation. He discusses Rupert Murdoch's surprising defense strategy and the implications of the ongoing lawsuit for First Amendment rights. The conversation also touches on the unraveling Murdoch-Trump relationship and the future of Fox News as new political figures, like Ron DeSantis, emerge. A fascinating look at the intersection of media accountability and politics!

36 snips
Dec 12, 2022 • 53min
Aging, Death and Other Uplifting Topics with Mike Birbiglia
Join Mike Birbiglia, a comedian and writer celebrated for his Broadway shows, as he dives into the serious yet humorous realms of aging, mortality, and parenting. He and Kara explore finding laughter in life’s sad moments and discuss their own thoughts on last words. The conversation touches on the emotional landscape of navigating death and the significance of family bonds while also shedding light on how personal experiences shape comedic storytelling. It's a heartfelt reflection on life's complexities wrapped in humor.


