OpenAI has acquired TBPN (Technology Business Programming Network), a well-known tech talk show, marking its first move into the media space. The show will now report to Chris Lehane, a senior figure at OpenAI.
TBPN is hosted by former founders John Coogan and Jordi Hays. It runs as a daily live show on YouTube and X, often lasting around three hours. The content focuses on technology, business, AI, and defence.
Over time, it has built a strong following in Silicon Valley. Many see it as a place where industry leaders speak openly. Top executives like Mark Zuckerberg, Satya Nadella, Marc Benioff, and Sam Altman have appeared on the show.
Despite the acquisition, TBPN will continue to operate under its own brand. OpenAI plans to support its growth, though the show is already on track to generate over $30 million in revenue this year, according to reports.
OpenAI also sees value in the founders’ communication and marketing skills. The company believes TBPN can help explain AI’s real-world impact in a way that feels direct and easy to follow.
Fidji Simo, OpenAI’s head of AGI deployment, said the show will keep its editorial independence. TBPN will still choose its guests and control its content. This point matters, as the show often discusses OpenAI and its competitors.
The deal has raised some questions. OpenAI is a major AI company, possibly heading toward an IPO, now owning a platform that covers the same industry. There are also concerns about leadership influence, given Lehane’s political background and role inside the company.
Sam Altman addressed this directly. He said TBPN would not go easy on OpenAI and would continue its honest discussions.
For TBPN, the deal is about more than growth. The founders say it gives them a chance to move beyond commentary and play a role in how AI is understood and used worldwide.
