Sam Altman's OpenAI buys TBPN to expand communication strategy and shape AI public debate

Sam Altman’s company OpenAI has acquired technology talk show TBPN as part of a broader push to expand its public communication strategy.

The company announced the deal on April 2, confirming that financial terms were not disclosed.

Under the agreement, the Los Angeles-based livestream programme will come under OpenAI’s ownership while maintaining full editorial independence.

OpenAI said the move is aimed at shaping public discussion as artificial intelligence becomes more widely used.

Fidji Simo, the company’s chief of strategy, said there is a need for “real, constructive conversation” as AI systems become part of daily life.

She added that TBPN offers a platform to support that goal and extend OpenAI’s reach.

The company also said the show will continue its existing daily livestream format without disruption.

TBPN, hosted by John Coogan and Jordi Hays, runs for three hours each weekday and focuses on startups, venture capital and the technology sector.

The programme regularly features interviews with senior industry figures.

The acquisition follows OpenAI’s recent $122 billion funding round, led by companies including Amazon, Nvidia and SoftBank.