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Kara Swisher to Marc Benioff: “Give the Money Away and Keep Your Mouth Shut.”

October 17, 202501:10
00:00:00
Salesforce CEO Mark Benoff appears to be
00:00:02
sort of walking back his recent comments
00:00:04
in the New York Times where he called
00:00:05
for President Trump to send National
00:00:06
Guard troops to San Francisco. Benoff
00:00:09
tried to clarify his remarks in a post
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on X saying safety is quote first and
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foremost the responsibility of our city
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and state leaders. I have a lot to say
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about this for Mark to weigh in like
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this uh and then saying we have to be
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nice to him because he gives a lot of
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money away. Like you give the money away
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and shut up Mark. I'm sorry. If you want
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to be charitable like Mackenzie Bezos,
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keep your mouth shut about it. you don't
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need to be thanked and you don't get a
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pass over saying something like this to
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bring in police the National Guard to
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San Francisco. He never is there. I and
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I know a little bit about what happened
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in here. He was in downtown San
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Francisco for 2 seconds. Was in a bad
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part of it. Saw some homeless and then
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compared it to Washington. There's no
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question San Francisco had a real
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downturn, but it is on the upturn. I
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like Mark. I I wasn't surprised by it,
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but it's really incredibly unhelpful.
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And for you to act like a victim and
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then demand feelalty because you give
00:01:02
money away, I'd rather you not give the
00:01:04
money away and keep your mouth shut.

Podspun Insights

In this episode, the conversation takes a sharp turn as the host dives into the recent comments made by Salesforce CEO Mark Benioff. The spotlight is on Benioff's controversial suggestion that President Trump should deploy National Guard troops to San Francisco, a statement that has stirred up quite a bit of discussion.

Listeners are treated to a candid analysis of Benioff's attempt to clarify his remarks on social media, where he emphasized that safety is primarily the responsibility of local leaders. The host doesn't hold back, expressing frustration over the juxtaposition of Benioff's philanthropic efforts and his public statements. The dialogue is peppered with a mix of humor and indignation, as the host questions the need for Benioff to weigh in on such a sensitive issue while simultaneously seeking praise for his charitable contributions.

As the episode unfolds, the host reflects on the complexities of urban challenges, particularly in San Francisco, and the implications of Benioff's comments on public perception and policy. The discussion touches on the city's recovery from its downturn, contrasting it with Benioff's brief experiences in the area.

Listeners are invited to consider the emotional weight of leadership and responsibility, especially when influential figures make sweeping statements about communities they are not deeply embedded in. The episode wraps up with a call for accountability and a reminder that actions speak louder than words—especially when those words can have significant repercussions. This lively exchange not only entertains but also prompts listeners to think critically about the intersection of wealth, influence, and social responsibility.

Badges

This episode stands out for the following:

  • 90
    Most talked-about
  • 85
    Most quotable
  • 85
    Most polarizing
  • 80
    Most intense

Episode Highlights

  • Salesforce CEO's Controversial Comments
    Mark Benioff faces backlash for suggesting National Guard troops be sent to San Francisco.
    “If you want to be charitable like Mackenzie Bezos, keep your mouth shut about it.”
    @ 00m 05s
    October 17, 2025
  • A Call for Responsibility
    Benioff emphasizes that safety is the responsibility of city and state leaders.
    “Safety is quote first and foremost the responsibility of our city and state leaders.”
    @ 00m 10s
    October 17, 2025
  • Criticism of Philanthropy
    Critics argue that Benioff's donations do not excuse his controversial statements.
    “You give the money away and shut up Mark.”
    @ 00m 21s
    October 17, 2025
  • Reflections on San Francisco's Challenges
    The speaker reflects on Benioff's brief visit to San Francisco and the city's struggles.
    “He was in downtown San Francisco for 2 seconds. Was in a bad part of it.”
    @ 00m 43s
    October 17, 2025

Episode Quotes

Key Moments

  • Salesforce CEO's Controversial Comments00:05
  • A Call for Responsibility00:10
  • Criticism of Philanthropy00:21
  • Reflections on San Francisco's Challenges00:43