ChatGPT owner OpenAI acquires technology talk show TBPN in surprise move

2 1 minute read

OpenAI Acquires Online Tech Talk Show TBPN

OpenAI has made a strategic move by acquiring TBPN, an online tech talk show known for its interviews with industry CEOs. The show, started by entrepreneurs John Coogan and Jordi Hays in late 2024, has garnered a loyal following in Silicon Valley. With this acquisition, Coogan and Hays will join OpenAI, marking a surprising shift for the company which had not previously shown interest in the news business.

The deal comes at a time when OpenAI is focusing on AI coding tools, having recently shelved its Sora video-generation tool. Despite this, the company sees the acquisition as a way to better communicate its plans and shape conversations around the impact of AI.

The deal is surprising given that OpenAI had not previously indicated any plans to enter the news business and had recently shelved its Sora video-generation tool. CEO Sam Altman, above. Getty Images

While the financial details of the acquisition were not disclosed, OpenAI has stated that it will maintain TBPN’s editorial independence. The move is reminiscent of similar efforts by tech companies to venture into media, as highlighted in OpenAI’s newsletter, the Prompt.

OpenAI’s decision to collaborate with the US government for military operations using its technology has sparked controversy, especially in light of the dispute between rival Anthropic and Washington.

Over the years, TBPN has hosted notable guests such as Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg, Microsoft CEO Satya Nadella, filmmaker James Cameron, and OpenAI chief Sam Altman. The acquisition signifies OpenAI’s commitment to engaging with industry leaders and shaping the narrative around AI advancements.