On with Kara Swisher

In this engaging discussion, Graham Dugoni, Founder and CEO of Yondr, sheds light on the philosophy behind his innovative phone-locking pouches. He shares how these devices help create phone-free spaces at concerts, schools, and weddings, promoting genuine interactions. The conversation touches on the urgent need for cell phone bans in schools, inspired by literature like Jonathan Haidt’s The Anxious Generation. Dugoni emphasizes the importance of balancing technology use and real-life engagement to enhance focus and community connections.

Laverne Cox, an Emmy-nominated actress and renowned transgender activist, dives deep into the urgent fight for trans rights. She highlights the alarming rise of anti-trans ads during the Trump campaign and condemns Meta's harmful decision to halt monitoring hate speech. Laverne underscores how these dynamics contribute to increased violence against trans individuals. The conversation busts myths surrounding gender-affirming care and emphasizes resilience in activism, all while teasing her upcoming Netflix comedy series, Clean Slate.

Senator Amy Klobuchar, a leading advocate for tech regulation and antitrust legislation, dives into her legislative battles against Big Tech and the challenges small companies face amidst monopolies like Google and Amazon. She discusses her determination to address children's online safety and the complexities of bipartisan efforts in Congress. Klobuchar also shares insights on navigating the political landscape post-January 6, the implications of Trump's nominations, and the urgent need for accountability in the tech sector.

Maggie Haberman, senior political correspondent for The New York Times and author of "Confidence Man," talks about Trump’s unexpected return to power. She dives into his upcoming policy moves, potential cabinet picks, and the heavy influence of figures like Elon Musk. Haberman discusses the dichotomy of Trump’s public persona and the ongoing challenges he poses to both political parties. With insights into threats against journalists and dissenters, she reveals the political dynamics at play as Trump navigates his next chapter.

Join Rumman Chowdry, the first U.S. Science Envoy for AI, Mark Dredze, a bias researcher from Johns Hopkins, and economist-turned-AI scholar Gillian Hadfield as they delve into AI's ethical minefield. They address the haunting question: can we create unbiased AI? The trio also discusses the frightening realities of AI under potential future administrations, the need for robust legal frameworks, and the risks of stifling innovation amid the AI hype. It’s a thought-provoking exploration of the urgent need for responsible AI development.

Samantha Bee, a comedian and former late-night host known for her Emmy-winning work on "Full Frontal with Samantha Bee," joins CNN correspondent Audie Cornish. They discuss Bee's surprising decision to be 'Democrat-celibate,' sharing her humorous take on stepping back from politics. The conversation dives into how comedy can address personal struggles and tackle the anxieties of constant news cycles. Bee also reflects on the evolving role of humor in today's political landscape, balancing escapism with the realities of divisive issues.

In this engaging discussion, Sarah Silverman, a fearless comedian known for her work on Saturday Night Live and Broadway, joins organizational psychologist Adam Grant. They dive into the power of kindness towards online trolls and the complexities of human relationships. Silverman shares her experiences of using humor as a defense mechanism, emphasizing empathy in tough conversations. The duo explores how compassion can transform conflicts and foster connections, shedding light on the importance of candid friendships that support and challenge.

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.