OpenAI is expanding its footprint beyond artificial intelligence and entering the media space with the acquisition of the popular tech industry talk show TBPN (Technology Business Programming Network). This marks OpenAI’s first move into media ownership and will reportedly come under the oversight of chief political strategist Chris Lehane.
According to OpenAI’s Chief of Applications, Fidji Simo, who shared the update in a company blog post, the acquisition is aimed at strengthening OpenAI’s ability to engage with influential voices across technology, business, and culture. She described TBPN as a platform with “strong editorial instincts, deep audience understanding, and a proven ability to convene influential voices.”
TBPN is a daily three-hour live talk show hosted by former founders John Coogan and Jordi Hays. It is streamed on platforms like YouTube and X, and primarily covers topics related to technology, artificial intelligence, business, and defence. Over time, the show has gained popularity as an informal yet influential space where tech leaders such as Mark Zuckerberg, Satya Nadella, Marc Benioff, and Sam Altman have appeared to share insights and announcements.
Despite the acquisition, TBPN will continue to operate independently as a brand. OpenAI has clarified that the show will retain full editorial freedom, including control over guests, programming, and content decisions. Simo emphasized that editorial independence remains a core principle of the partnership.
She also noted that OpenAI plans to leverage TBPN’s expertise in digital storytelling and audience engagement, highlighting the show’s strong track record in shaping conversations around the tech industry and emerging trends.
OpenAI CEO Sam Altman also expressed his enthusiasm in a post on X, calling TBPN his “favourite tech show.” He added that he expects the platform to continue its independent approach, even when covering OpenAI itself, humorously acknowledging that it may not always be flattering.
With this move, OpenAI signals a broader strategy to influence not just AI development but also how technology narratives are shaped and communicated to the global audience.
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