On with Kara Swisher

This week features Dwight Garner, a seasoned book critic from The New York Times, and Becca Rothfeld from The Washington Post, both passionate about literature. They discuss the merits and pitfalls of bestsellers, dive into the joy of physical books amid digital trends, and contemplate rising book censorship. With a critical eye, they explore how modern literature reflects generational divides and personal narratives. Their insights promise new favorites and thoughtful critiques on what might become the timeless classics of 2024.

Yann LeCun, Chief AI Scientist at Meta and a pioneer in neural networks, engages in a lively discussion about open-source AI. He shares insights on the financial race in AI, where tech giants invest heavily in advancements. Yann tackles the risks of open-sourcing powerful models and advocates for guidelines to ensure ethical development. He also voices his thoughts on AI regulation and explains the necessity of transparency in research. Known for his candidness, he isn’t shy about sharing his views on figures like Elon Musk and Donald Trump.

Dr. Zeke Emanuel, an architect of the Affordable Care Act, Dr. Celine Gounder, an infectious disease specialist, and Donald McNeil Jr., a former NY Times health reporter, dive into the implications of RFK Jr.'s controversial nomination for the Department of Health and Human Services. They explore the rise of COVID denialism, the complex anti-vaccine movement, and the impact of political beliefs on public health strategies. The conversation emphasizes the necessity of science-based decision-making amidst a shifting landscape of health policies.

Matty Matheson, a Canadian chef, restaurateur, and star of 'The Bear,' shares his culinary journey, from executive producing to acting in a beloved series. He candidly discusses the emotional highs and lows of cooking for family and the delightful chaos that culinary creativity brings. Matheson highlights the importance of community in cooking and reflects on his role in empowering Indigenous culinary students. With humor and warmth, he underscores the value of comfort food and the evolving paths for chefs in today's landscape.

In this discussion, U.S. Representative Ro Khanna, known for his progressive populism, emphasizes the need to unite tech leaders and working-class advocates. He delves into AI policy and the Kids Online Safety Act, critiquing emotional rhetoric around social media regulations. Khanna also reflects on the Democratic Party's challenges, advocating for economic reforms and a safety net to combat inequality. Additionally, he underscores the importance of tech accountability, addressing the complexities of campaign financing and the influence of billionaires in politics.

Marc Benioff, CEO of Salesforce, dives into the potential transformations AI agents like Agentforce could bring to the economy and workforce. He critiques massive AI investments, arguing they lead to a 'race to the bottom.' The conversation shifts to Elon Musk, discussing the challenges of maintaining corporate values amidst political pressures. Benioff also pays tribute to the late Susan Wojcicki, reflecting on her impact and their shared experiences. Get ready for some candid insights on tech, responsibility, and the evolving landscape of leadership.

Anjali Sud, CEO of Tubi and former CEO of Vimeo, discusses the innovative free streaming model and how it competes against giants like Netflix. With a vast library of nostalgic and diverse content, Tubi caters to cord-cutters seeking affordable options. Sud emphasizes Tubi's ability to elevate unique voices and support emerging filmmakers. The conversation highlights the challenges of diversity in tech leadership while exploring the platform's commitment to inclusivity and its unique approach to audience engagement in a changing media landscape.

Megan Garcia, grieving mother of Sewell Setzer III, shares her heartbreaking story of her son's suicide after engaging with AI chatbots. She discusses her lawsuit against Character.AI and Google, blaming them for failing to protect her son. Joining her is Mitali Jain, an advocate for tech responsibility, emphasizing the urgent need for regulations to safeguard children from potential harms of AI. They delve into the emotional toll on families and highlight the ethical implications of tech companies in child safety, calling for accountability and better protective measures.

Nathan Myhrvold, founder and CEO of Intellectual Ventures and former Chief Technology Officer at Microsoft, is a true modern renaissance man. He discusses everything from groundbreaking innovations in superconductors and cancer therapy to the exploration of dinosaurs and asteroids. The conversation delves into the evolution of AI, highlighting techno-optimism and the need for regulation amidst technological advancements. Myhrvold also touches on the importance of diversity in corporate leadership and the role of innovative energy solutions to combat climate change.

In a heartfelt conversation, Billie Jean King, the legendary tennis pro and LGBTQ+ activist, shares her journey of self-acceptance and leadership. The discussion touches on the historical significance of the 'Battle of the Sexes' and its impact on women's rights. Billie emphasizes the importance of mental and physical health, challenges ageism in sports, and reflects on her legacy in empowering women. Julia Louis-Dreyfus seeks advice for her niece’s soccer career, while anecdotes from their upbringing highlight the evolution of women in sports and the transformative power of the feminist movement.