Pivot with Kara Swisher and Scott Galloway

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Comedians Participating in Saudi Comedy Festival? Kara Swisher and Scott Galloway Debate

October 01, 202501:22
00:00:00
Top comedians are criticizing their
00:00:02
peers for participating in the Riad
00:00:03
Comedy Festival, a state sponsored Saudi
00:00:06
event. These are all the free free
00:00:08
speechers being uh completely paid off
00:00:11
not to speak. What do you think about
00:00:12
this?
00:00:13
Well, let me be clear. I' I have gone to
00:00:15
Riad and spoken and cash their checks
00:00:17
and I do so openly and wholeheartedly
00:00:20
and with a total absence of guilt.
00:00:22
Yes, but these are comics, Scott. These
00:00:24
are people who who go on and on about
00:00:26
free speech and insult everybody about
00:00:28
it. So, let me be clear. I believe NBS
00:00:30
ordered the murder of Kosogi in our
00:00:32
nation. We're letting, you know, we're
00:00:34
taking away healthcare from people.
00:00:36
We're removing security details from
00:00:38
former officials. We're incarcerating
00:00:41
and pulling people out of work with
00:00:43
people in mass. I literally think we're
00:00:44
in no position to wave our finger at
00:00:46
anybody right now.
00:00:46
I completely disagree with you. I think
00:00:48
we should absolutely wave our finger at
00:00:50
these comics cuz these are the comics
00:00:52
that literally lectured the left on free
00:00:56
speech. I think our comics are an
00:00:58
incredible export and I think the more
00:01:01
comics in different parts of the world
00:01:03
makes us look good and and makes them
00:01:05
less likely to declare war on us and
00:01:06
feel affinity for us. I'm in. Go cash
00:01:09
their check. Have a great time.
00:01:11
Hypocrites. [ __ ] hypocrites. If you
00:01:14
say free speech to me, I'm going to
00:01:15
punch you in the nuts.

Podspun Insights

In this episode, the spotlight shines on the controversial Riad Comedy Festival, where top comedians are facing backlash for their participation in a state-sponsored event in Saudi Arabia. The conversation ignites as two sharp minds dive into the ethical quagmire of free speech versus financial gain.

Listeners are treated to a lively debate that cuts through the noise, as one participant boldly admits to having performed in Riyadh without a hint of remorse, while the other raises a clarion call against hypocrisy among comics who preach free speech yet cash in on questionable gigs. The tension escalates as they grapple with the implications of their choices, questioning whether comedians can truly stand for free expression when they align themselves with regimes known for their human rights abuses.

The episode is not just a clash of opinions; it's an exploration of the moral responsibilities of artists in a complex world. With sharp wit and a dose of humor, the discussion challenges listeners to think critically about the intersection of art, politics, and personal integrity.

As the debate unfolds, it becomes clear that this isn't just about comedy—it's about the power of words, the weight of responsibility, and the sometimes murky waters of artistic freedom. Tune in for a thought-provoking ride that leaves you questioning where you stand on the spectrum of free speech and the ethics of entertainment.

Badges

This episode stands out for the following:

  • 85
    Most quotable
  • 85
    Most controversial
  • 80
    Most shocking
  • 80
    Best writing

Episode Highlights

  • Comedians Criticized for Saudi Festival Participation
    Top comedians face backlash for taking part in a state-sponsored comedy festival in Saudi Arabia, raising questions about free speech.
    “These are all the free speechers being uh completely paid off not to speak.”
    @ 00m 06s
    October 01, 2025
  • Openly Accepting Controversial Checks
    One comedian defends his participation, stating he accepts the Saudi checks without guilt, sparking further debate.
    “I have gone to Riad and spoken and cash their checks... with a total absence of guilt.”
    @ 00m 15s
    October 01, 2025
  • Debate on Free Speech and Hypocrisy
    A heated discussion erupts over whether comedians should be criticized for their actions, with one arguing that they are hypocrites for lecturing on free speech.
    “Hypocrites. [ __ ] hypocrites. If you say free speech to me, I'm going to punch you in the nuts.”
    @ 01m 14s
    October 01, 2025

Episode Quotes

Key Moments

  • Comedians Criticized for Saudi Festival Participation00:06
  • Openly Accepting Controversial Checks00:15
  • Debate on Free Speech and Hypocrisy01:14