The Grill Room Rupert’s Last Rodeo & CNN’s Zombie Era
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Sep 12, 2025 Delve into the murky waters of media ownership as Rupert Murdoch's leadership transitions spark debates about the future of Fox and News Corp. The podcast contrasts The Atlantic's innovative strategies with CNN’s ongoing struggles amidst a shifting landscape. Explore how legacy pressures weigh on billionaire heirs and the rush to adapt to digital platforms. Plus, learn about the fascinating impact of YouTuber iShowSpeed on NFL viewership, shedding light on the changing dynamics of media consumption.
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Murdochs Chose Cash Over Control Battles
- Rupert Murdoch secured control by buying out his children rather than losing the company to family litigation.
- The settlement shows media empires can be preserved with large payouts rather than internal reform.
Moral Arguments Lose To Financial Reality
- Elizabeth and James chose large payouts instead of trying to dismantle Fox from inside.
- That outcome disappointed observers who hoped moral arguments would win over money.
The Atlantic's Engagement-First Strategy
- The Atlantic is building deeper engagement with a targeted, paying audience rather than chasing scale.
- That strategy mirrors successful subscription-first media and can protect against commodified news pressures.