OpenAI Acquires Tech Talk Show TBPN in Strategic Media Move

OpenAI has acquired the popular tech talk show TBPN (Technology Business Programming Network) in a deal reportedly worth several hundred million dollars. The acquisition was confirmed on April 2, 2026, and marks OpenAI's first move into media ownership.

TBPN is a daily live show reaching Silicon Valley insiders, investors, and technology leaders on YouTube and X. Hosts Jordi Hays and John Coogan have interviewed names like Mark Zuckerberg and Sam Altman, building an audience of several hundred thousand followers.

OpenAI says the purpose is to accelerate the global conversation around artificial intelligence and create a forum for constructive dialogue. The show will operate within OpenAI's strategy organization and report to Chris Lehane, the company's Chief Global Affairs Officer.

TBPN will maintain editorial independence, according to OpenAI. The hosts retain control over programming, guest selection, and editorial decisions. The advertising business will wind down as part of the transition.

For CIOs and technology leaders, this is a notable development. AI companies are now competing not just on model performance and infrastructure, but also on shaping the public narrative around technology. With OpenAI owning a media outlet, the line between PR and journalism blurs in a new way.