Our Curious Amalgam #32 Is There Choice in Cheer? Considering Market Competition in Competitive Cheering
17 snips
Mar 9, 2020 
Matt Stoller, author of "Goliath," dives into the competitive cheer industry, noting its rapid growth and the potential monopolistic grip of major players like Varsity Brands. He discusses how high costs and safety concerns plague participants, revealing the broader implications of antitrust issues hidden in unexpected fields. The conversation also touches on the relationship between democracy and market competition, alongside personal anecdotes that bring humor to serious topics. Tune in for a fresh perspective on competition law!
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
Varsity's Control: A Rockefeller with Glitter?
- Matt Stoller, intrigued by a seemingly conspiratorial tone in the Netflix show "Cheer," investigated Varsity Brands' potential monopoly.
- His colleague's observation about Varsity's control sparked his interest, leading him to uncover coercive tactics similar to those used by John D. Rockefeller.
Varsity's Competition Control
- Varsity Brands' dominance in competitive cheer comes from acquiring most competitions, giving them control over who participates.
- This control allows them to push their apparel and equipment, even preventing competitors from showcasing their products.
Impact of Varsity's Monopoly
- Varsity's control affects safety standards, potentially creating dangerous situations for athletes.
- High costs make cheerleading less accessible, particularly impacting middle-class families and harming the sport's spirit.
