Jason Wright, Mellody Hobson, & the RFK Jr. Hearings 01/31/25
Jan 31, 2025
auto_awesome
Steve Liesman, a CNBC reporter specializing in economic analysis, discusses the implications of President Trump's tariffs on Canada and Mexico. Former FDA Commissioner Dr. Scott Gottlieb critiques Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s understanding of healthcare during his challenging confirmation hearings. Mellody Hobson, co-CEO of Ariel Investments, speaks about the exciting investment landscape in women’s sports, particularly with the new National Women’s Soccer League franchise in Denver, advocating for diversity and inclusion in corporate leadership.
Jason Wright and Mellody Hobson’s investment in women’s sports through Project Level reflects the growing market value and confidence in women's athletics.
Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s confirmation hearings revealed significant gaps in understanding Medicare and vaccinations, raising concerns over public health leadership.
Deep dives
Impact of Trump's Tariff Agenda
President Trump is set to impose a 25% tariff on imports from Canada and Mexico, citing issues such as immigration and a significant trade deficit. Despite his claims of a $250 billion trade deficit with Canada, the actual figure is reported to be approximately $41 billion, indicating a potential misunderstanding of the economic landscape. The tariffs, aimed at addressing perceived unfair trade practices, could disrupt the intricate trade relationship established through agreements like NAFTA. Economists express concern that these measures may not effectively address the underlying economic issues and could harm U.S. manufacturers relying on imports.
Concerns Over Robert F. Kennedy Jr.'s Nomination
Robert F. Kennedy Jr. faced challenging confirmation hearings for the position of Secretary of Health and Human Services, with significant worries over his understanding of essential health programs. He demonstrated confusion about Medicare and Medicaid, not grasping the fundamental distinctions and details of these programs, raising doubts about his suitability for the role. Moreover, his hesitance to affirm the safety of childhood vaccines during the hearings has fueled skepticism regarding his views on public health policy. Experts highlight the risk of his confirmation further eroding public trust in vaccines and the health system.
Growth of Women's Sports Investment
The increasing popularity of women's sports is underscored by the National Women's Soccer League's expansion, which recently marked a record-breaking $110 million investment. Industry leaders point out that metrics such as viewership and sponsorship are consistently on the rise, emphasizing the value in women's sports as an emerging market with significant growth potential. The valuation gap between women’s and men’s sports teams suggests an opportunity for substantial financial returns, with investors seeing women's sports as undervalued compared to their male counterparts. This transition indicates a broader societal acceptance of women's athletics and a shift in the commercial landscape.
Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Initiatives in Business
The conversation around diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) is becoming contentious, with some stakeholders questioning the business rationale behind these initiatives. Despite public pushback, industry leaders argue that diverse perspectives are essential for driving innovation and improving decision-making in corporate environments. Executives emphasize that a diverse workforce not only reflects societal changes but also enhances the company's ability to connect with a broad consumer base. The commitment to inclusive practices remains strong among forward-thinking companies, underscoring that effective business strategies must align with the diverse needs of the market.
Jason Wright has ended his tenure leading the NFL Washington Commanders and has joined Ariel Investments co-CEO Mellody Hobson in a women’s sports investing venture. The venture, Project Level, is a part owner in the newest National Women’s Soccer League franchise in Denver. The two leaders discuss investing in women’s sports and betting on diversity in boardrooms to boost corporate bottom lines. Plus, President Trump’s pick to lead the Department of Health and Human Services appeared on Capitol Hill for two intense days of confirmation hearings. Robert F. Kennedy Jr. answered Senator questions about Medicare, Medicaid, and vaccinations, but former FDA Commissioner and Pfizer board member Dr. Scott Gottlieb said RFK’s responses showed a failure to fully grasp the fundamentals of the current healthcare system. Plus, the clock is ticking on President Trump’s tariffs on Canada and Mexico. CNBC’s Steve Liesman breaks down the economics of the plans.
Steve Liesman - 06:25
Dr. Scott Gottlieb - 15:46
Mellody Hobson & Jason Wright - 26:55
Get the Snipd podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share & Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode