

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 7, 2020 • 30min
Trump vs. Iran on Twitter, more on HQ2 incentives, and 'mandatory happiness'
The discussion delves into Trump's provocative tweets about Iran, highlighting the unusual ways social media impacts global politics. There's a humorous look at the Golden Globes, where tech drew the ire of Sascha Baron Cohen. They explore Richard Plepler's big move to Apple, hinting at exciting new content on the horizon. Meanwhile, NYC's hefty incentives for Amazon spark debate about political ethics. Finally, the hosts uplift listeners with 'mandatory moments of happiness,' blending humor and personal stories.

Jan 3, 2020 • 50min
California is regulating consumer data privacy, the gig economy revisited, and Tesla’s big stock spike.
A fresh wave of consumer privacy regulations in California is testing the balance between protection and business dynamics. The discussion also dives into the gig economy, emphasizing the need for better worker rights amidst shifting landscapes. Tesla's recent stock surge raises questions about market strategies, while a humorous moment surfaces as Sharon Stone gets booted from Bumble. Kara's forward-thinking prediction that handheld devices might vanish by 2030 rounds out a conversation that blends tech insights with real-world implications.

Dec 27, 2019 • 51min
"Friends of Pivot" breakdown the big stories of the decade
Kara and Scott take a nostalgic trip through the defining moments of the 2010s, inviting notable guests to share their insights. They explore tech innovations and societal shifts under leaders like Obama and Trump. The conversation also dives into the complexities of American identity and the crucial role of confronting painful historical truths. With a focus on women's progression in leadership and tech, they highlight the impact of the Me Too movement. Plus, they reflect on the revolutionary changes in television and the fluctuating fortunes of major tech companies.

Dec 20, 2019 • 45min
Impeachment… it happened, Peter Thiel’s influence at Facebook, and prediction: “FedEx gets acquired"
The discussion kicks off with the potential business implications of impeachment. Insights on Peter Thiel's unseen grip at Facebook reveal the tension in their political ad strategies. Meanwhile, the woes of SoftBank's leadership and its risky investments spotlight the challenges in the startup ecosystem. Amazon's power play against FedEx is a game-changer, leading to a bold prediction about FedEx's future. Expect a lively blend of political analysis, corporate rivalry, and humor throughout!

Dec 17, 2019 • 43min
What’s up with the China/US trade deal, why haven’t “smart guns” popularized, and who is going to stream the NFL?
Kara and Scott dive into the complex Phase One trade deal between the US and China, discussing its implications for big tech. With the anniversary of the Sandy Hook tragedy, they explore how technology could address gun violence and the rising trend of 'ghost guns.' The conversation shifts to the future of NFL streaming, pondering whether Amazon will secure broadcasting rights. Scott predicts more revelations about Apple's dealings with China in the coming year, mixing serious topics with engaging commentary.

Dec 13, 2019 • 50min
Netflix Golden Globe noms, bipartisan agreement on encryption, and Amazon's plan for fashion
The hosts dive into the recent congressional hearing on encryption, exploring how it impacts messaging apps. They share updates on leadership changes at Away and dissect Jack Dorsey's proposal to form a small, open-source team. With fashion icon Joanna Coles as a guest, the discussion turns to Amazon's ambitions in the fashion world and its effects on traditional brands. They reflect on the emotional weight of series finales in TV, while closing with predictions about the influence of internet porn on youth.

Dec 10, 2019 • 46min
A letter to Twitter, Uber's data transparency, and Away proves startup culture is rough
The hosts tackle a letter addressing concerns about Twitter's management, shedding light on corporate governance. They dive into Uber's troubling report on sexual assault incidents, revealing safety issues in ride-sharing. The harsh culture at Away is discussed, contrasting the startup's appealing brand with real employee experiences. Additionally, a cheeky follow-up ad to the Peloton campaign featuring Aviation Gin delights everyone, sparking conversations about media responsibility and the intriguing mix of culture and advertising.

Dec 6, 2019 • 41min
CEO’s are out (literally), France's "digital service tax” is in, and 'innovator privilege’
Major shifts in tech leadership take center stage, with Google facing a new landscape as Sundar Pichai steps in. A French lawyer shares insights on the new digital service tax targeting U.S. tech giants. Political discussions highlight Kamala Harris’s rising star and the implications of income inequality. The complexities of billionaire behavior in politics stir debate, while the challenges of campaign finance and diversity in candidates spark reflection. All while the hosts mix humor and personal anecdotes into their lively analysis.

Dec 3, 2019 • 36min
Dorsey moves to Africa and streaming platforms trump movie theaters
Jack Dorsey's bold decision to move to Africa while leading Twitter raises eyebrows about corporate governance. The hosts dissect the streaming wars, highlighting how home viewing is reshaping movie dynamics and impacting theater attendance. They also delve into the pitfalls of logistics companies like FedEx, discussing the broader implications of tech disruptions and societal issues. With humor and insight, they explore cultural sensitivity and Africa's burgeoning tech scene, predicting Twitter may face challenges ahead.

Nov 29, 2019 • 44min
London gives Uber the boot, the billionaire's 2020 strategy, and streaming wars continue
London's decision to revoke Uber's operating license shakes up the ride-hailing industry, raising questions about safety and regulation. Michael Bloomberg's political strategies come under scrutiny in light of his billionaire status. Meanwhile, Google's recent firings of employee labor organizers spark a debate on corporate ethics and employee rights. The hosts also dissect Mark Zuckerberg's lackluster public engagement while critiquing the streaming wars, particularly Disney Plus's rise against Netflix. A lively blend of tech, politics, and corporate culture keeps the conversation engaging!


