San Francisco — OpenAI announced Thursday its acquisition of TBPN, an online streaming program focused on technology and business. The move comes as the leading artificial intelligence startup aims to influence the public discourse surrounding AI and its societal impact. The financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

For the past 18 months, TBPN, hosted by John Coogan and Jordi Hays, has gained a significant following, particularly among Silicon Valley executives, with its generally optimistic views on technology. The program, which airs online three hours a day, five days a week, will continue its daily broadcast under OpenAI’s ownership but will cease its advertising operations. It will be integrated into OpenAI’s strategy division, reporting to Chris Lehane, the company’s chief global affairs officer.

OpenAI executives cited growing public criticism and shifting perceptions of AI, from skepticism to increasing apprehension, as a key driver for the acquisition. Fidji Simo, a top OpenAI executive instrumental in the deal, noted TBPN’s "marketing instincts" and expressed a desire to leverage the hosts' talents "outside of the show" to foster greater public excitement about OpenAI’s technology. She indicated in an internal memo that traditional communication strategies were proving ineffective for the company, and that buying TBPN could help create "a space for a real, constructive conversation" about AI's transformative effects, centered on its developers and users.

TBPN, which employs 11 people and began airing in October 2024, stated it would maintain editorial independence despite the acquisition. President Dylan Abruscato confirmed that a "commitment to editorial independence" was a core part of the contract, stipulating that OpenAI would not have influence over guest selection or topics covered. He added that the show intends to expand, potentially developing an events business, with OpenAI's support.

However, the acquisition raises questions about how TBPN’s new affiliation might affect its ability to attract high-profile guests from companies that compete with OpenAI. OpenAI CEO Sam Altman, who previously invested in one of Coogan's ventures, acknowledged the complexities, stating in a social media post, "I don’t expect them to go any easier on us, am sure I’ll do my part to help enable that with occasional stupid decisions."

The deal takes place at a critical juncture for the AI industry, which faces intensifying scrutiny despite its rapid growth. OpenAI itself has grappled with public perception, with CEO Sam Altman admitting he "miscalibrated" the level of public distrust following a recent agreement to provide services to the Pentagon. The company has also been seeking a new head of communications since its previous lead departed in December.