

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

Jun 8, 2021 • 57min
G-7 nations' historic tax reform, Bitcoin 2021, and Friend of Pivot Jon Meacham on de-platforming Trump
Join Pulitzer Prize-winning historian Jon Meacham as he delves into the implications of the G-7's historic tax reform, establishing a 15% global corporate tax rate to combat tax avoidance. The discussion shifts to the evolving cryptocurrency landscape, spotlighting the Bitcoin 2021 event and the contrasting visions of tech leaders. Meacham also reflects on the impact of de-platforming figures like Trump, the normalization of extreme political rhetoric, and the historical context of today's political polarization.

Jun 4, 2021 • 55min
The SEC goes after Elon Musk's tweets, Fauci's emails, and should Roku acquire more content?
Dive into the whirlwind of Elon Musk's tweets, as scrutiny from the SEC reveals unapproved posts affecting stock prices. Unpack Dr. Fauci's controversial emails, unveiling insights into public health communications during the pandemic. Listener questions spark debates on Roku's potential acquisition of Quibi content, highlighting the shifts in streaming dynamics. This mix of tech, health, and media creates an engaging conversation about accountability and innovation in today's landscape.

Jun 1, 2021 • 1h 4min
Uber and Lyft price surge, the Biden infrastructure bill and Friend of Pivot Casey Newton
Casey Newton, writer of the newsletter Platformer, dives deep into the world of social media and its evolution. He discusses Twitter's struggles with governance and the race for a new CEO, emphasizing the challenges of competition and content monetization. The conversation also touches on the ongoing Biden infrastructure bill negotiations, shedding light on the fragmented political landscape. Listeners gain insights into the impact of social media on mental health and the push towards better online user experiences.

May 28, 2021 • 52min
Russia crackdown on social media, Amazon buys MGM, and is 5G worth the hype?
The discussion kicks off with Russia's escalating penalties against social media giants like Google and Twitter. Then, they dive into Amazon's monumental $8.45 billion deal to acquire MGM, exploring the future of entertainment and corporate power dynamics. The hosts also tackle the buzzing topic of 5G technology, weighing its anticipated benefits against the hype. Personal anecdotes and humorous insights add a light touch as they navigate these serious discussions.

May 25, 2021 • 1h 7min
Tim Cook takes the stand in Apple vs. Epic trial and a Friend of Pivot on app dating
Nancy Jo Sales, bestselling author of "Nothing Personal: My Secret Life in the Dating App Inferno," dives into the modern dating landscape shaped by technology. She reveals the pitfalls of dating apps, which prioritize user engagement over real connections and safety. The conversation highlights how monopolistic practices impact not just tech but also the dating culture. With a blend of humor and insight, they explore the emotional dynamics and inequalities faced by users, calling for meaningful change in the digital matchmaking world.

May 21, 2021 • 1h
Crypto-crash, Streaming wars and tax plans with MSNBC Host Stephanie Ruhle
Stephanie Ruhle, MSNBC host and NBC News senior business correspondent, shares her insights on the turbulent crypto-market and the ongoing AT&T spin-off of Time Warner. Ruhle discusses potential challengers to these media deals and dives into listener questions regarding the intersection of mental health and big tech. Her expertise sheds light on pressing economic issues, making for an energetic conversation filled with timely and thought-provoking topics.

May 18, 2021 • 1h 1min
AT&T's TimeWarner/Discovery+ super merger and GLAAD's report on social media platforms
Join Sarah Kate Ellis, President of GLAAD, as she shares crucial insights on the safety challenges the LGBTQ community faces on social media. The conversation emphasizes the alarming rates of online harassment and the urgent need for stronger accountability from platforms. Ellis introduces GLAAD's new report, aiming to document hate incidents and combat misinformation. The hosts also dive into the implications of AT&T's merger with Discovery+, exploring its impact on the streaming landscape and the dynamic challenges of social media innovation.

May 14, 2021 • 51min
The Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack and Tesla breaks up with Bitcoin
The fallout from the Colonial Pipeline ransomware attack leads to discussions about gas hoarding and cybersecurity awareness. Tesla's controversial pause on accepting Bitcoin highlights environmental issues and corporate responsibility, sparking skepticism from some. The podcast also touches on how the global tech landscape is influenced by humanitarian crises in places like India and Tel Aviv, emphasizing the need for international collaboration in today's complex world.

May 11, 2021 • 53min
Elon Musk on Saturday Night Live and the dogecoin tumble
Elon Musk's memorable Saturday Night Live performance sparked conversations about its surprising effect on Dogecoin and the cryptocurrency market. The podcast also dives into a major cyberattack on a U.S. natural gas pipeline, highlighting the growing concern over cybersecurity. As guest Brad Stone discusses Amazon's shift in leadership and direction post-Bezos, listeners gain insight into the future challenges and innovations facing the retail giant. The blend of pop culture and serious topics makes for a dynamic and engaging listen.

May 7, 2021 • 53min
Facebook Oversight Board and the Trump ban, trouble for Peloton and a listener question about AI
The discussion kicks off with the Facebook Oversight Board's controversial decision to uphold Trump's account ban. Tensions rise as Peloton faces a massive treadmill recall, highlighting their crisis management strategy. A listener question dives into the tricky ethics surrounding AI at Google. The conversation wraps up with playful insights on the future of Dogecoin and the implications of tech governance in our daily lives.


