OpenAI buys tech streaming show TBPN in bid to shape AI narrative

OpenAI Acquires Streaming Show TBPN to Control AI Narrative

OpenAI bought "TBPN," a daily streaming show about technology and business, in a deal announced Thursday. The company said the acquisition would help it "create a space for a real, constructive conversation about the changes A.I. creates." Financial terms were not disclosed.

"TBPN" airs three hours a day, five days a week and has become a destination for Silicon Valley executives seeking favorable coverage. Hosts John Coogan and Jordi Hays typically discuss technology with an optimistic bent.

The show employs 11 people and will remain editorially independent under OpenAI's ownership, according to the companies. It will continue its daily broadcast but shut down its advertising operations.

Why OpenAI Made the Move

Fidji Simo, an OpenAI executive, said in an internal memo that standard communications strategies don't work for the company. She framed the acquisition as a way to center "builders and people using the technology" in conversations about AI's effects.

The move reflects how AI companies are managing public perception as regulatory scrutiny increases. Rather than rely on traditional media relations, OpenAI is now controlling a media property directly.

TBPN had not raised significant venture funding before the acquisition, making it a relatively inexpensive asset for OpenAI to acquire.

What This Means for Communications Professionals

The acquisition signals a shift in how tech companies approach narrative management. For PR and communications professionals, this represents a new playbook: owning media channels rather than pitching to them.

Understanding generative AI and LLM technology is increasingly central to corporate communications strategy, particularly for companies in the AI sector managing complex stakeholder relationships.

The Wall Street Journal first reported the deal.