

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

Sep 28, 2021 • 59min
Code Galore, No More Instagram for Kids, and Friend of Pivot Jim Bankoff
In this discussion, Jim Bankoff, Chairman and CEO of Vox Media, shares insights on the media industry's future and trends in advertising. The hosts dive into the pause on Instagram for kids, raising critical concerns about youth mental health and social media. They also analyze the impact of China's crypto ban on decentralization and examine the shifting landscape of podcasting and digital advertising. Plus, they highlight the legacy of Angela Merkel in leadership, contrasting it with today's political dynamics.

Sep 24, 2021 • 56min
Apple Wants to Diagnose Your Depression, Google Bets on New York City, and a Friend of Pivot on Facebook Marketplace
Craig Silverman, a ProPublica reporter known for his work on social media and misinformation, dives into the troubling landscape of Facebook Marketplace fraud. He highlights the platform's failure to ensure user safety, which has led to increased risks of scams and even violent incidents. The conversation also touches on Facebook's push for pro-company content and Apple's new initiative to use iPhone data for diagnosing mental health issues, showcasing the intersection of technology and personal safety.

Sep 21, 2021 • 56min
Russia vs. Big Tech, Facebook Responds (Dismissively), and Friend of Pivot Max Chafkin on Peter Thiel
Max Chafkin, author of "The Contrarian," dives deep into the world of Silicon Valley's powerful players, particularly Peter Thiel. The discussion reveals the complex relationship between Big Tech and authoritarian regimes like Russia, and critiques Facebook's lackluster responses to crucial issues. Chafkin explores the implications of billionaires in politics and their responsibilities toward society. Parental concerns over social media's impact on youth health add another layer to the conversation, making for a captivating and thought-provoking session.

Sep 17, 2021 • 52min
Instagram Knows it’s Toxic, Amazon’s Starting Wage Hike, and Another Big Week for Apple
Kara and Scott dive into alarming findings about Instagram's negative impact on teen girls' mental health. They also discuss Amazon's recent wage hikes and the implications for worker rights amidst economic pressures. The conversation touches on the California recall election and its political ramifications. Additionally, there's a lively prediction about the future of SPACs and a reminder for everyone to keep their Apple devices updated. Tune in for insightful commentary filled with urgency and a touch of humor!

Sep 14, 2021 • 57min
Epic v. Apple, Facebook’s VIP List and a Friend of Pivot Brian Derrick on the California Recall
In this engaging discussion, political consultant Brian Derrick, known for his insights on electoral strategies, dives deep into the recent California recall election. He unwraps the motivations driving the recall and contrasts the fundraising efforts of different candidates. Additionally, Derrick shares intriguing predictions for the 2024 election landscape. The hosts also address Facebook’s VIP user rules and reflect on significant legal battles facing tech giants like Apple, making for a thought-provoking blend of politics and technology.

Sep 10, 2021 • 59min
The red-hot IPO Market , El Salvador’s Bitcoin Experiment and SCOTT IS BACK!
Scott is back, and he's diving headfirst into the chaos of Google's antitrust challenges and the SEC's tussle with Coinbase. Meanwhile, El Salvador's bold Bitcoin purchase sparks debates about its impact on global currencies and remittance costs. Get ready for predictions on promising startups about to steal the spotlight. The tech landscape is shifting as companies move to Texas, all amidst a backdrop of political changes and societal dilemmas. The hosts balance serious discussions with lighthearted family anecdotes, creating a captivating mix.

Sep 3, 2021 • 46min
The Texas Abortion Ban, Joe Rogan's Covid, and the Politico Acquisition Soap Opera
In this captivating conversation, George Hahn, an actor and satirist known for his sharp social commentary, tackles the contentious Texas abortion ban and its implications for women's rights. The duo explores the surge of viral anti-mask and anti-vaccine videos, alongside reflecting on the backdrop of Joe Rogan's COVID experience. A surprise listener question leads to unexpected insights, while George shares his TikTok bans saga and his ambition to co-host The View. Get ready for humor and poignant discussion on today's pressing issues!

Aug 31, 2021 • 1h 1min
Lessons from Afghanistan, the California Recall, and this week’s Friend of Pivot is Nathan Allebach aka The Steak-umm Twitter Guy
Katie Couric, a renowned journalist and author, hosts a compelling discussion with Nathan Allebach, creative director of the popular Steak-umm Twitter account. They delve into the fallout of the Afghanistan withdrawal, seeking lessons learned and accountability. The conversation then shifts to the California recall election, unpacking its intricate political dynamics. Nathan shares insights on how he transformed Steak-umm's social media presence into an engaging platform that tackles truth and advertising in an era of misinformation. Don't miss their take on the current state of media!

Aug 27, 2021 • 49min
What the OnlyFans news says about power and control, Cathie Wood's transparent investment strategy, and a prediction on the federal reserve pulling away from the punch bowl
Guest Andrew Ross Sorkin, a New York Times columnist and finance guru, joins the conversation about shifting dynamics in digital platforms. They explore OnlyFans' controversial decision to maintain sexually explicit content and its implications for power in the creator economy. The duo discusses Airbnb’s initiative to house Afghan refugees, highlighting corporate social responsibility. Sorkin also analyzes Cathie Wood's transparent investment strategies that resonate with high-risk investors, and speculates on the Federal Reserve's future policies.

Aug 24, 2021 • 59min
Big Covid Questions, the Nursing Shortage Crisis and a Friend of Pivot on the upcoming Elizabeth Holmes Trial
Dr. Jeffrey Swisher, Chair of Anesthesiology at California Pacific Medical Center, shares his insights on the implications of full FDA approval for the Pfizer vaccine and the nursing shortage crisis exacerbated by COVID-19. John Carreyrou, award-winning investigative reporter, discusses his new podcast focused on the Elizabeth Holmes trial, exploring the intricacies of fraud allegations tied to Theranos. The conversation highlights the emotional toll on healthcare workers and touches on crucial health policies like drug cost reduction.


