

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

May 17, 2019 • 39min
Alabama's big fail, Uber's disastrous IPO, and the Facebook breakup debate
The discussion kicks off with a personal health scare that leads into amusing takes on bestseller rankings. It dives into Chris Hughes' proposal for Facebook's breakup and the potential impact of tech regulations on giants like Apple. Insights into the stagnant luggage market spotlight the rise of Away Travel. Alabama's controversial abortion laws stir a debate on women's rights. Lastly, unconventional interview strategies are explored, reflecting on gig workers' treatment and recent IPO trends.

May 10, 2019 • 35min
Chris Hughes' Case Against Facebook, Strikes on IPO Week, GoT vs Avengers
A lively discussion unfolds around the contentious issues facing gig economy workers at Uber and Lyft, focusing on their struggles for fair compensation. The hosts dive into the stark power dynamics of Facebook and its potential breakup. They also hilariously compare the emotional stakes of blockbusters like 'Avengers: Endgame' with the darker themes of 'Game of Thrones.' Additionally, they explore the intertwining of tech funding in political campaigns, highlighting the contrasting strategies of prominent candidates as the 2024 elections approach.

May 3, 2019 • 36min
Facebook's privacy fakeout, WeWork's reckless IPO, and Reagan the welfare queen
A lively debate unfolds as the hosts tackle Facebook's privacy paradox amid a landscape of capitalist disparities. They humorously critique weathervane companies manipulating tax systems, while also navigating the evolution of AI and the need for regulation. Disney’s resurgence sparks conversations about ethical quandaries, especially surrounding Amazon's surveillance technology. Plus, the importance of sensory inclusion garners attention, revealing personal stories that highlight the necessity for accommodating environments in everyday life.

Apr 26, 2019 • 32min
The FTC & the "Algebra of Deterrence"
Kara and Scott dive into the FTC's punitive fine on Facebook, likening it to a mere 'parking ticket.' They reflect on Sri Lanka's controversial social media ban after tragic bombings, raising pressing concerns about social media's role in society. The duo discusses recent upheavals at The MarkUp and the Tesla board, while Scott joyfully shares his passion for Broadway. With a blend of humor and sharp insights, they tackle the complexities of corporate accountability and the entertainment industry's unique challenges.

Apr 19, 2019 • 41min
Uber's IPO and, more importantly, Game of Thrones
This discussion dives into Disney's challenging entry into the streaming wars, taking on Netflix and Apple. Uber's IPO reveals the stark contrast between corporate gains and driver struggles, with some humorous insights. Facebook surprisingly makes headlines for its diverse board member appointment. In a delightful crossover, Game of Thrones' cultural impact and character stories weave into the corporate world, illustrating how entertainment and business dynamics collide in unexpected ways.

Apr 12, 2019 • 38min
Mr. Zuckerberg goes to Washington ... again
The hosts tackle Congressional hearings on tech platforms' role in spreading hate speech and how the U.S. lags behind other countries in regulation. They ponder Pinterest's IPO and Airbnb's political decisions. MacKenzie Bezos makes headlines as the world's third richest woman, prompting a humorous take on wealth distribution. From tech leadership styles to the evolving dynamics in the Democratic primary, they combine serious critique with lighthearted banter, keeping the conversation lively and engaging.

Apr 5, 2019 • 35min
"It's not a meritocracy, it's a mirror-tocracy"
Kara and Scott dive into the fallout from recent Facebook controversies, including Zuckerberg's surprising call for regulation. They critique YouTube's lax approach to toxic content. A special guest discusses Nipsey Hussle's tech contributions and the role of affluent Black celebrities in entrepreneurship. In a humorous twist, Elon Musk's rap about Harambe makes an appearance. Meanwhile, Patagonia stands firm against tech-bros and takes a stand for sustainability. The talk wraps up with predictions for Lyft and Amazon's future.

Mar 29, 2019 • 35min
Will the rising tide of ride sharing Lyft all boats?
Scott and Kara share their skepticism about Lyft's IPO while exploring the ride-sharing industry's network effects. Facebook's ban on white nationalist posts sparks a discussion about online accountability. They dissect the evolving landscapes of media and ride-sharing, reflecting on their challenges. For a dash of humor, they compare political theatrics to winter blues, all the while pondering the future of companies like Lyft and Uber. Plus, insights on inclusivity and the unique needs of sensory-sensitive individuals add depth to their engaging conversation.

Mar 22, 2019 • 30min
Does social media cause terrorism?
The hosts dive deep into the troubling relationship between social media and terrorism, with a focus on violence against the Muslim community in New Zealand. They scrutinize the college admissions scandal, spotlighting how exclusivity traps the middle class. Jokingly, Scott gushes over his man-crush while making bold predictions about the next Democratic nominee. The conversation blends humor with critical insights into digital security, political discourse, and the implications of impulsive buying driven by social media ads.

Mar 15, 2019 • 50min
LIVE! From SXSW it's Kara and Scott
Live from SXSW, Kara and Scott dive into the hot topics of big tech and antitrust. They reflect on Senator Warren's proposals to break down major tech companies and the implications for upcoming elections. The duo tackles the responsibility of tech leaders in shaping societal impacts, even discussing comedy in the age of cancel culture. Predictions for Tesla's challenges and the broader dynamics of media and technology keep the conversation lively. Audience engagement adds a humorous twist, highlighting the vibrancy of the festival.


