On with Kara Swisher

David Ignatius, a renowned foreign affairs columnist for The Washington Post and author of twelve novels, joins the discussion to delve into pressing global conflicts. He offers deep insights on the wars in Gaza and Ukraine, emphasizing the need for effective leadership and strategic diplomatic relations. Ignatius reflects on Biden's political challenges ahead of the election and examines the complexities of Israel's military strategy against Hamas. The conversation also touches on the implications of space warfare and the evolving landscape of national security.

Walt Mossberg, a pioneer in tech reviewing known for his straightforward style, and Marques Brownlee, the renowned YouTube tech reviewer with over 18 million followers, join for an enlightening conversation. They delve into the evolution of tech reviews from skepticism to authenticity, emphasizing the importance of credibility and trust. The pair share their unique methodologies while debating hot topics like the Tesla Cybertruck and Apple Vision Pro's societal implications. Their insights bridge the gap between traditional journalism and modern content creation.

Anne Lamott, a prolific author celebrated for her confessional memoirs, joins the conversation to discuss her latest book, *Somehow: Thoughts on Love*. She shares insights on why love is akin to Wi-Fi and reflects on her brush with cancel culture after a tweet. The discussion covers radical self-acceptance and the importance of forgiveness, even toward polarizing figures like Donald Trump. Lamott emphasizes community, personal growth, and navigating judgment in today's society, making for a thought-provoking dialogue on love and resilience.

Steve Ells, founder of Chipotle, returns with Kernel, an innovative plant-based restaurant aiming to shift the fast-casual landscape. He shares how automation can enhance worker wages and benefits without sacrificing quality. The conversation dives into the integration of tech in food prep, challenging the notion of a 'robot restaurant.' Ells also emphasizes the environmental benefits of a plant-based diet while discussing the importance of appealing to all diners, including meat eaters, with unique flavors and sustainable practices.

Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Suzan-Lori Parks, known for her compelling explorations of race and history, joins for a thought-provoking discussion. She delves into her latest play, 'Sally & Tom,' which examines the complex relationship between Thomas Jefferson and Sally Hemings. The conversation tackles America’s tendencies to gloss over its past, the importance of revising historical narratives, and how art can foster dialogue about uncomfortable truths. Parks emphasizes that confronting history with honesty is an act of love.

Senator Maria Cantwell, a former tech executive and the chair of the Senate Commerce Committee, discusses her groundbreaking American Privacy Rights Act that aims to establish stronger data privacy protections. She reflects on her early experiences at RealNetworks and the evolution of privacy in technology, addressing the urgent need for effective laws amid big tech's influence. Furthermore, she delves into the controversial TikTok divestment bill, highlighting its constitutional implications, bipartisan efforts, and the broader challenges surrounding global tech regulation.

In this discussion, Dmitri Alperovitch, co-founder of CrowdStrike, and Chris Krebs, former CISA director, tackle the pressing threat posed by China. They share insights on the strategic importance of Taiwan and the complexities of U.S.-China relations. The conversation includes how cyber threats and technology intertwine with geopolitical tensions. Both experts emphasize the need for diplomacy and the lessons learned from Ukraine, highlighting the critical role of semiconductor production and the potential impact of a Chinese invasion on global stability.

Shefali Luthra, a journalist with The 19th covering abortion issues, Sarah McCammon, NPR's national political correspondent, and Mary Jo Pitzl, a senior reporter for the Arizona Republic, delve deep into the political implications of abortion rights post-Dobbs. They discuss how recent bans, particularly in Arizona, are shaping electoral strategies and influencing public sentiment. The conversation highlights the surprising rise in abortion numbers and the challenges facing women seeking care, all while questioning how these factors could impact the upcoming election.

Jonathan Haidt, a social psychologist and NYU professor, shares insights from his book, The Anxious Generation, discussing the potential dangers of smartphones and social media on Gen Z’s mental health. He argues that these technologies are fueling anxiety and sleep issues among youth, sparking a heated debate among researchers. Haidt also tackles the complexities of modern parenting, the impacts of social media on identity, and proposes solutions to regulate youth smartphone use. The conversation is both thought-provoking and critical in understanding today's digital landscape.

Jim Lanzone, CEO of Yahoo and a seasoned leader from Ask.com, CBS, and Tinder, discusses revitalizing Yahoo's legacy in the digital age. He shares his vision for modernizing Yahoo's products, focusing on AI integration and enhancing user experience. Lanzone also addresses challenges from industry giants while exploring potential mergers and an IPO. Nostalgically, he reminisces about the tech industry's evolution, reflecting on the promise of the early internet and the need for quality journalism amidst the digital landscape.