

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

Jan 19, 2021 • 1h
More GOP Twitter suspensions, Parler is back, and FTC Commissioner Rebecca Slaughter on the future of big tech
FTC Commissioner Rebecca Slaughter joins the conversation to unpack the challenges of regulating big tech amidst rising misinformation. She dives into antitrust lawsuits against Facebook, emphasizing the need for effective enforcement to maintain market competition. The discussion also touches on Twitter's controversial suspensions and Parler's comeback, highlighting the urgent demand for accountability across social media platforms. Slaughter offers insights into the FTC's future role in shaping tech regulations under the Biden administration.

Jan 15, 2021 • 1h 2min
Impeachment number 2, Airbnb cancels DC reservations, and rebranding America
The podcast dives into the intricacies of Donald Trump's second impeachment and the ripple effects on businesses distancing themselves from him. Airbnb's cancellation of DC reservations ahead of inauguration raises questions about corporate accountability. The duo tackles the pressing issue of how to rebrand America amidst political turmoil. Listener mail adds a personal touch, discussing consumer economy predictions and the need for equitable resource distribution following pandemic-related wealth disparities.

Jan 12, 2021 • 1h 2min
Parler goes dark, Trump's power without Twitter, and a Friend of Pivot on the history of coups
Ruth Ben-Ghiat, an NYU professor and expert on authoritarianism, delves into the troubling rise of fascism throughout history and its implications today. She discusses how Trump's absence from Twitter affects his influence, and the role of tech platforms in shaping political narratives. The conversation also explores the dynamic between leaders and followers in authoritarian contexts, emphasizing the importance of accountability and media responsibility in preserving democracy. Fascinating insights on the ever-evolving threats to democratic norms are highlighted.

Jan 8, 2021 • 46min
Twitter and Facebook ban Trump, the future of Internet regulations under Democrats, and a prediction on Sheryl Sandberg
Casey Newton, Editor of Platformer, dives into the implications of Trump's de-platforming and the widening gap in social media accountability. He shares insights on how Democrats taking control of the Senate might reshape internet regulations, focusing on Section 230 and antitrust laws. Louie Swisher adds youthful commentary, exploring the evolving tech landscape. They predict a shifting future for Facebook's Sheryl Sandberg, hinting it could be her final year, while discussing nostalgic entertainment trends like a revival of drive-in movies.

Jan 5, 2021 • 54min
The Trump tapes and Tesla sales soar with guest host Stephanie Ruhle
In this engaging discussion, guest host Stephanie Ruhle, an MSNBC anchor, chats with Dr. Jeffrey Swisher, a San Francisco physician and brother of Kara Swisher. They delve into the Georgia Senate election and the bombshell tapes of Trump attempting to manipulate votes. The pair also explore Tesla's surprising sales surge during a challenging auto industry period. Dr. Swisher shares invaluable insights from his COVID-19 vaccine experiences, addressing public health communication and the ongoing challenges of vaccination efforts.

Dec 29, 2020 • 57min
The Wonder Woman premiere, Georgia's run off election, and friend of pivot Olivia Nuzzi
Hilary Rosen, a savvy political strategist and PR expert famous for her work in Democratic politics, joins White House reporter Olivia Nuzzi. They explore the evolving streaming landscape with 'Wonder Woman', dissect the implications of the Georgia runoff election, and analyze Biden's cabinet picks amid progressive concerns. The discussion touches on Trump's ongoing influence and the media's role in shaping current political narratives, all while critiquing responses to the pandemic from political figures.

Dec 22, 2020 • 1h 6min
2021 Predictions Special: the future of markets, healthcare, and media
In a lively discussion, the hosts and their insightful guests tackle the shifting market dynamics and tech predictions for 2021. They dive into the implications of automation on jobs and advocate for corporate responsibility and diversity. The conversation moves to healthcare changes and competition among major retailers post-pandemic, emphasizing the evolving media landscape. With light-hearted predictions from young voices, they explore consumer trends and the potential of platforms like Disney Plus and Apple TV Plus.

Dec 18, 2020 • 1h 5min
Facebook vs. Apple, Robinhood reckoning, and a prediction for Zoom
Dive into the escalating feud between Facebook and Apple as both giants face antitrust challenges. Explore the ethical implications of Robinhood's aggressive tactics towards inexperienced traders and the urgent call for greater accountability. Plus, hear a bold prediction for Zoom's future in the crowded video conferencing arena. The conversation touches on the potential shift of podcasting toward subscription-based models, raising intriguing questions about the evolving landscape of media.

Dec 15, 2020 • 1h 1min
Covid vaccine in the US, Roblox IPO delay, and friend of Pivot Stephanie Ruhle
Stephanie Ruhle, an MSNBC anchor and senior business correspondent, shares her personal journey with COVID-19 and its profound economic repercussions. She discusses the challenges of vaccine distribution in the U.S. and the implications for public trust and health policy. Ruhle also weighs in on Roblox's IPO delay, linking it to broader market trends. The conversation highlights the importance of empathy in political dialogue and critiques the media's role in shaping narratives around health and responsibility, particularly during these turbulent times.

Dec 11, 2020 • 48min
Facebook's monopoly reckoning, the Pfizer vaccine begins, and predictions for Airbnb stock
This discussion dives into the FTC's lawsuit against Facebook, accusing it of monopolistic practices. They also celebrate the UK as the first to roll out the COVID-19 vaccine to a non-trial recipient, reflecting on vaccine distribution. In listener mail, insights on Apple's new chip are shared. Predictions about Airbnb's stock performance reveal market dynamics and the impact of the pandemic on tech companies. The episode expertly intertwines themes of corporate responsibility, tech regulation, and the evolving landscape of social media.


