On with Kara Swisher

In this engaging discussion, former FTC commissioners Alvaro Bedoya and Rebecca Slaughter share insights on their controversial firings by Trump. Bedoya, a privacy expert, and Slaughter, a seasoned political strategist, highlight the political motivations behind their dismissal, emphasizing the threat it poses to independent agencies like the FTC. They delve into how tech giants might benefit from such changes and stress the importance of preserving the FTC's integrity to ensure fair competition in the market amid rising political tensions.

Nicole Perlroth, a former lead cybersecurity reporter, Michael Schmidt, a Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist, and Lt. Col. Alexander Vindman, a former NSC director, delve into the ominous world of cybersecurity threats. They discuss how adversaries like China have infiltrated U.S. critical infrastructure, the urgent need for enhanced defense strategies, and the troubling trend of defunding cybersecurity efforts. The conversation touches on the implications of AI in cyber warfare and the complex relationship between national security and civil liberties in this digital age.

Ezra Klein, co-founder of Vox and host of a popular podcast, teams up with Derek Thompson, a staff writer at The Atlantic, to discuss their new book on transforming scarcity into abundance for the Democratic Party. They argue that bureaucratic hurdles obstruct growth, leading to affordability crises in blue states. The conversation delves into innovative housing solutions like 'yimbyism,' critiques of current governance, and the role of technology in shaping a sustainable future. Ultimately, they advocate for a government that prioritizes effective infrastructure and community needs.

Chelsea Handler, a comedian, author, and television host celebrated for her Netflix talk show, shares her journey as a six-time bestseller. She reflects on her unconventional entrepreneurial spirit, starting from a vodka-infused lemonade stand. The conversation dives into her candid takes on Trump and Musk, parenting insights from her life with her ex's daughters, and the evolving dynamics of young men today. Handler’s humor shines through as she discusses personal growth, societal norms, and her unique birthday traditions, all while maintaining authenticity in her comedy.

In this engaging conversation, Elizabeth Warren, Senior Senator from Massachusetts and a forceful advocate for consumer rights, dives deep into the political landscape shaped by figures like Trump and Musk. She expresses concerns over billionaire influence, particularly Musk's impact on regulatory bodies like the Consumer Financial Protection Bureau. Warren argues against a crypto reserve, highlighting its potential harm to everyday Americans, and discusses her hopes for 2028 presidential aspirations. Her insights illuminate the ongoing struggle for accountability and fairness in a rapidly changing political arena.

Geraldine Brooks, a Pulitzer Prize-winning novelist and author of "March" and "Horse," discusses her grief following the sudden death of her husband, Tony Horwitz. She reflects on mourning in a society that shies away from sadness and shares how writing served as a therapeutic outlet. The conversation also touches on Tony's vision of bridging political divides during tumultuous times, now more relevant than ever. Additionally, Brooks offers her thoughts on her contribution to a new book about public service, highlighting the importance of community and connection.

This discussion features Jeff Bezos, founder of Amazon, alongside influential figures like Sally Quinn, a former Washington Post columnist; Tina Brown, accomplished media executive; Oliver Darcy, media commentator; and Amanda Katz, former opinion editor. They dive into the controversial editorial decisions at The Washington Post, particularly under Bezos's ownership, and the growing concern over journalistic integrity. The panel reflects on the exodus of talent and debates the challenges of maintaining accountability journalism in today's polarized media landscape.

Aswath Damodaran, the Professor of Finance at NYU's Stern School, dives into the intricacies of stock market valuations in light of Trump's policies. He debates whether the market is overvalued, particularly amidst rising tech stock concerns and the dominance of 'MAG-7' companies. The conversation touches on the impact of trade tensions and immigration policies on corporate decisions and IPO activities, while also analyzing the stock performance of companies like NVIDIA and Palantir amidst broader economic challenges.

Ronny Chieng, an Emmy award-winning comedian known for his sharp satire on The Daily Show, shares his insights on the current state of political humor and the role of comedians in addressing societal issues. He discusses the intersection of political satire and cultural commentary, revealing how his law degree enhances his joke-writing. Chieng explores the challenges of Asian representation in Hollywood, particularly through his role in Hulu's 'Interior Chinatown,' and reflects on the influence of digital culture on masculinity and mental health.

Rahm Emanuel, former Chicago mayor and U.S. ambassador to Japan, returns with candid insights on the Democratic Party's challenges. He bluntly critiques the party's missteps and suggests a shift towards education and quality of life issues. Emanuel discusses Elon Musk's influence on politics and the need for Democrats to rally against Trump's agenda using strategic legal tactics. The conversation also touches on global hotspots, including China and Ukraine, making for a dynamic exploration of today's political landscape.