

Pivot
New York Magazine
With great power, comes great scrutiny. Every Tuesday and Friday, journalist Kara Swisher and NYU Professor Scott Galloway offer sharp, unfiltered insights into the biggest stories in tech, business, and politics. They make bold predictions, pick winners and losers, and bicker and banter like no one else. From New York Magazine and the Vox Media Podcast Network.
Episodes
Mentioned books

29 snips
Apr 1, 2022 • 1h
Pivot Q1 Quarterly Review
Dive into a lively review of Scott’s past predictions on meme stocks, entrepreneurship trends, and the tussle between Facebook and TikTok. The hosts dissect the media's role in spreading misinformation while questioning accountability in today's society. They explore the unpredictable world of meme stocks and dissect the unique challenges faced by entrepreneurs. Also discussed are the ripple effects of geopolitical tensions on the tech industry and the unexpected calm in Russian cyber activity during the Ukraine conflict.

11 snips
Mar 29, 2022 • 1h 9min
Oscars Reactions, Apple Subscriptions, and The Team Behind Super Pumped: The Battle for Uber
Brian Koppelman, the executive producer of Super Pumped: The Battle for Uber, joins the discussion on the tumultuous world of tech and media. They dive into the recent Oscars incident, dissecting its implications on societal norms. The convo shifts to Apple's bold move towards subscription models for devices, exploring consumer engagement and loyalty. Koppelman also reflects on the ethical dilemmas of disruption in business practices, questioning the balance between innovation and integrity in Silicon Valley.

Mar 25, 2022 • 1h 1min
Buzzfeed Layoffs, SCOTUS Confirmation Hearings, and MacKenzie Scott’s Donations
The discussion dives into the recent confirmation hearings for Judge Ketanji Brown Jackson, spotlighting her views on antitrust laws and the theatrical antics of some senators. There’s a candid look at the layoff crisis hitting BuzzFeed and how it reflects larger media trends. MacKenzie Scott’s impactful donations are highlighted, contrasting her straightforward philanthropy with traditional methods. The hosts also tackle the launch of AARP's new social network and predictions for the evolving landscape of private companies.

Mar 22, 2022 • 1h 1min
Disney Drama, Amazon Owns MGM, and Guest Kelly AuCoin
Kelly AuCoin, actor known for his roles in 'Billions' and 'The Americans', joins the discussion to dissect the latest Disney drama and Amazon's acquisition of MGM. They explore the quick evolution of the streaming industry, alongside a critique of Disney's leadership struggles. AuCoin shares humorous insights into preparing for his role in 'WeCrashed'. The conversation takes a deep dive into cryptocurrency trends and societal impacts, especially highlighting generational inequities that are making headlines.

Mar 18, 2022 • 1h 3min
Universities Cut Ties with Russia, Antitrust Action, and Guest Preet Bharara
Preet Bharara, former U.S. attorney and host of Stay Tuned with Preet, joins the hosts to discuss his upcoming live event. The conversation delves into U.S. universities severing ties with Russia amidst geopolitical tensions, highlighting the impact on research and international students. They also tackle the recent antitrust action against Amazon, exploring its implications for competition and consumer rights. In addition, insights into rising Tesla prices and changes at Starbucks add flavor to their lively discussion.

Mar 15, 2022 • 1h 1min
More COVID Disruptions, Government Internet Carve-Ups, and Friend of Pivot, Dr. Vivek Murthy
Dr. Vivek Murthy, the Surgeon General of the United States and an advocate for youth mental health, joins the discussion. He delves into the pervasive issue of online misinformation, emphasizing its impact on public health. The conversation also highlights the loneliness exacerbated by the pandemic and the role of tech companies in managing harmful content. Kara and Scott tackle the latest COVID supply chain interruptions, the geopolitical implications of internet control, and Disney's political donation pause.

Mar 11, 2022 • 1h 3min
Let's Say Gay, The U.S. Bans Russian Oil, and Guest Jeffrey Sonnenfeld
Jeffrey Sonnenfeld, Senior Associate Dean at Yale School of Management, dives deep into the ongoing impact of the 'Don't Say Gay Bill' and corporations' varying responses. The conversation shifts to the U.S. ban on Russian oil imports, highlighting its economic repercussions and influence on renewable energy. Sonnenfeld also explores corporate ethics during geopolitical crises, discussing the motivations behind companies leaving or staying in Russia. Insightful reflections on the complexities of corporate social responsibility in a rapidly changing world round out this engaging discussion.

8 snips
Mar 8, 2022 • 1h 11min
Truth Social Sinks, More Russia Fallout for Big Tech, and Guest Elizabeth Williamson
Elizabeth Williamson, a Feature writer for the New York Times and author of "Sandy Hook: An American Tragedy and the Battle for Truth," shines a light on the ongoing struggles against misinformation, particularly regarding Truth Social's fading impact. The discussion delves into the harmful consequences of conspiracy theories and the emotional toll on victims' families. They also explore the intersection of technology and geopolitical issues, notably Big Tech's reactions amidst the Ukraine conflict and the ethical responsibilities of media platforms.

6 snips
Mar 4, 2022 • 1h 8min
The Latest on Ukraine, A TikTok Investigation, and Guest Gal Beckerman
Stephanie Ruhle, MSNBC anchor, co-hosts a riveting discussion with Gal Beckerman, Senior editor at The Atlantic and author of 'The Quiet Before.' They dive into the latest on the Ukraine conflict and its media portrayal, examining how narratives shape our understanding of global crises. Beckerman sheds light on social media's dual role as a powerful tool for activism and misinformation, especially in movements like Me Too and Black Lives Matter. The conversation also critiques TikTok's impact on youth mental health, stressing the importance of corporate responsibility.

17 snips
Mar 3, 2022 • 46min
BONUS EPISODE! Live from Pivot MIA: The Life Cycle of a Company with Prof. Aswath Damodaran
Professor Aswath Damodoran explores the intriguing parallels between a company's life cycle and human development. He discusses the unpredictability of businesses and critiques traditional valuation models. The importance of storytelling in assessing young companies is emphasized, alongside the need for adaptive leadership styles at different stages. Geopolitical tensions are also explored, especially regarding military aid to Ukraine. Additionally, major tech firms face unique challenges that require innovative strategies amid shifting market dynamics.


