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Michael Steinberger

Journalist and author of The Philosopher in the Valley, providing an in-depth account of Alex Karp, Palantir, and the rise of the surveillance state based on unprecedented access to Karp.

Top 5 podcasts with Michael Steinberger

Ranked by the Snipd community
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592 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 39min

Inside the Tech Company Powering Trump’s Most Controversial Policies

Michael Steinberger, a contributing writer for The New York Times and author of "The Philosopher in the Valley," explores the controversial technology company Palantir. He dives into how CEO Alex Karp transitioned from liberal beliefs to supporting Trump, especially through federal contracts with ICE. Steinberger outlines Palantir’s controversial software used for surveillance and military applications, the backlash it faces, and Karp’s philosophical justifications for these partnerships in an increasingly polarized America.
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147 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 29min

Palantir: the world’s ‘scariest company’?

In this engaging discussion, Michael Steinberger, an author and former wine critic, alongside tech reporter Johana Bouyan from The Guardian, delve into the controversial world of Palantir. They explore Alex Karp's unique upbringing and how it shaped his leadership style. The duo dives into Palantir's surveillance software, its long-term ties with ICE, and ethical dilemmas surrounding military contracts. With insights on data privacy and the implications of centralizing sensitive information, they ponder the true intentions behind Karp's vision of 'saving the West'.
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57 snips
Dec 8, 2025 • 51min

Is Alex Karp the Philosopher of Silicon Valley? With Michael Steinberger

Michael Steinberger, a seasoned journalist and author of The Philosopher in the Valley, shares insights into Alex Karp, the unconventional CEO of Palantir. He unpacks Karp's unique leadership style and background, exploring how his anti-war activism shaped his vision. Steinberger discusses Palantir's controversial role in national security and the surveillance landscape, while also highlighting its contributions during the pandemic. The conversation dives into Karp's political evolution and his surprising support for Trump, shedding light on his complex worldview.
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40 snips
Dec 17, 2025 • 1h 2min

Catherine Rampell and Michael Steinberger: Trump Wants to Cook the Books

Catherine Rampell, an economics editor at The Bulwark, critiques the administration's data manipulation and its impacts on labor markets and inflation. She highlights the rising concerns around statistical cuts and distorted economics as job losses mount. Michael Steinberger, author of 'The Philosopher in the Valley,' dives into Palantir's controversial role in surveillance and political influence, discussing its roots in counterterrorism and ties to ICE. Their engaging conversation reveals the intersection of technology, policy, and ethics in today's society.
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13 snips
Jan 30, 2026 • 27min

How Palantir became indispensable

Michael Steinberger, journalist and author of The Philosopher in the Valley, breaks down Palantir and Alex Karp’s rise from philosophy student to tech CEO. He explains the company’s secretive CIA roots and its expansion into government, healthcare, AI and wartime support. The conversation covers controversies around surveillance, political ties, protests and Palantir’s rapid pivot into AI.

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