Join political commentator John Heilemann as he unpacks the tumultuous year in media. Heilemann discusses the unsettling alliance between tech giants and Trump, alongside Jeff Bezos's challenges at The Washington Post. He highlights the shifting media landscape, particularly the rise of podcasting, as a dominant force in political discourse and the complex dynamics of audience engagement. The conversation also critiques the media's accountability and the twisted power of platforms like X, making 2024 a pivotal year in the industry's evolution.
The podcast emphasizes the transactional relationships between executives and Donald Trump, highlighting the complexities of navigating corporate and political interests.
A key theme is the decline of traditional media formats like cable news, contrasting with the rise of podcasts as effective engaging platforms for political discourse.
It critiques the struggles faced by major media outlets such as CNN and The Washington Post, particularly regarding their adaptation to new business models and audience expectations.
Deep dives
Amelia Perez's Award Nominations
Amelia Perez has received significant recognition in the film industry, being nominated for 10 Critics' Choice Awards and 10 Golden Globe Awards, which includes accolades for Best Director and Best Picture of the Year. This level of acknowledgment emphasizes her impact and achievement within the cinematic landscape. The performances by actress Carla Sofia Gascon, Zoe Saldana, and Selena Gomez have also garnered critical acclaim, with praise from notable outlets such as the Chicago Sun-Times. The film is currently available in select theaters and on Netflix, highlighting its broad accessibility to audiences.
The C-Suite's Relationship with Trump
The podcast discusses the transactional nature of Donald Trump's presidency, suggesting that some executives have chosen to navigate their relationship with him by exhibiting a level of respect or support. With examples like large donations to his inauguration fund or favorable public statements, the conversation raises questions about finding a balanced approach. It posits that business leaders could interact with Trump professionally without compromising their integrity or engaging in extreme displays of allegiance. This dynamic illustrates the complexities executives face in the intersection of corporate interests and political relationships.
Media Trends Overview for 2024
As the discussion transitions towards the year 2024, the podcast hosts reflect on the significant overlaps between media and politics. They contemplate the evolving landscape, highlighting crucial trends such as the decline of traditional cable news and the emergence of new media formats, including podcasts. Among these trends, the notion of engagement taking precedence over mere audience size is notably emphasized, suggesting that depth of connection with viewers is becoming increasingly vital. This assessment sets a forward-looking tone, aiming to forecast how changes in media will shape political discourse.
Challenges Facing CNN and The Washington Post
The dialogue touches on the difficulties faced by prominent media outlets like CNN and The Washington Post amid changing business models and audience expectations. With the advent of subscription models over advertising, these organizations have struggled to maintain profitability and viewer engagement. The leadership of Will Lewis at The Washington Post and Mark Thompson at CNN is scrutinized, critiquing their approaches to managing declining ratings and revenues. As both media houses confront financial challenges, the idea of a C-suite retaliating against previous expectations and mandates emerges as a critical theme.
The Resurgence of Podcasting and The Decline of Traditional TV Stars
The podcast discusses the current media landscape's shift toward podcasts as a platform for authentic and engaging communication, contrasting this with the struggles of traditional television personalities. The conversation explores how the television star model is in decline, with established anchors facing budget cuts and diminished influence. It highlights that the podcast medium allows for a more genuine connection with audiences, which is resonating well in an era of authenticity. This transition marks a significant cultural shift, favoring new voices and formats that prioritize direct communication over polished television production.
Green room machine John Heilemann joins Dylan to look back on this year in media: the procession of entertainment and tech C.E.O.s kissing Trump’s ring; the headwinds facing Jeff Bezos at The Washington Post; the rise of Elon and twisted power of X; the most significant media macro trends; the industry’s biggest winners and three sorriest losers; and why 2024 was the year of the podcast in politics.
