OpenAI just bought tech talk show TBPN: 'This is not an April Fools joke'

In a surprising shift towards the media landscape, OpenAI has acquired TBPN, a tech talk show that has gained significant traction among Silicon Valley enthusiasts. The announcement was made on Thursday, although financial details of the deal remain undisclosed. Hosted by Jordi Hays and John Coogan, TBPN streams daily and has become essential viewing for tech aficionados, featuring interviews with industry heavyweights such as OpenAI's CEO Sam Altman and Palantir's Alex Karp. The show is known for its playful approach, likening AI talent acquisitions to professional sports drafts, which resonates well with its audience. "This is not an April Fool's joke; that was yesterday," quipped co-host John Coogan during the announcement. OpenAI's Fidji Simo, CEO of AGI Deployment, praised the TBPN team, highlighting their ability to create a platform that connects technology innovators with leaders from various sectors. "It's a real-time window into what's happening in AI," Simo stated, emphasizing the show's role in facilitating discussions about the implications of technology in everyday life. The acquisition aligns with OpenAI's revamped communications strategy, as Simo noted that traditional methods of communication do not suit the company. By bringing TBPN into its fold, OpenAI aims to foster a more direct engagement in online AI discourse. TBPN will be integrated into OpenAI's Strategy organization, reporting to Chris Lehane, the chief global affairs officer. Simo also reassured that TBPN will maintain its independence, preserving its unique programming and editorial choices. Co-host Hays remarked on the show's critical perspective towards the industry but acknowledged that OpenAI's receptiveness to feedback stood out during their interactions. Coogan added that TBPN has never positioned itself as a journalistic entity but rather as a platform for industry leaders to discuss and contextualize technology. This acquisition reflects a broader trend among leading AI firms, with many, including Anthropic, venturing into branding and content creation, as they seek to shape the narrative surrounding artificial intelligence. The TBPN team has yet to respond to requests for comments regarding the acquisition.