
Not Investment Advice
Jack Butcher, Bilal Zaidi & Trung Phan discuss what they're finding on the edges of the internet + the latest in business, technology and memes.Let us know what you think on Twitter:@bzaidi@trungtphan@jackbutcher@niapodcast Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Latest episodes

15 snips
Apr 23, 2025 • 1h
212: Meta & Google Antitrust Cases, ChatGPT Memory Implications & Personalized AI Learning
This discussion dives into the antitrust cases against tech giants Meta and Google, exploring their market power and potential breakups. The hosts weigh in on the dynamics of digital advertising, likening ad exchanges to a stock market. They also tackle ChatGPT's memory feature, debating its implications for personalized learning and privacy. Amid humorous anecdotes about caffeine, they highlight the exponential growth of AI tools and the competitive landscape of AI startups, emphasizing application over mere innovation.

Apr 16, 2025 • 1h 10min
211: NIA 4th Year Anniversary, Tariffs (Bond Yield, Apple/China), LVMH vs. Hermes, Rory Win & Best Comeback Stories
Celebrate four years of podcasting with the hosts as they reflect on memorable moments. Dive into the tangled web of U.S.-China trade relations and its effects on major brands like Apple. Explore the rivalry between LVMH and Hermes, including discussions on luxury marketing. Relish inspiring comeback stories, featuring Rory McIlroy's triumph and the lessons of resilience from various fields. With a blend of humor and insight, there's plenty to unpack about craftsmanship, storytelling, and market volatility.

14 snips
Apr 9, 2025 • 1h 19min
210: Tariffs, Trade War, Stock Meltdown, China & Can America Bring Back Manufacturing?
The hosts humorously explore how names can influence careers before diving deep into the complexities of tariffs and their economic impact. They dissect the intricate U.S.-China trade dynamics and reflect on the implications of tariffs on consumer prices and local economies. The discussion also touches on the stock market downturn and challenges in revitalizing American manufacturing, contrasting it with China's manufacturing advantage. The episode emphasizes the importance of innovation and self-reliance in navigating current economic uncertainties.

12 snips
Apr 2, 2025 • 1h 16min
209: Studio Ghibli ChatGPT, Hiyao Miyazaki, Meme Cycles & xAI Acquires X
The hosts dive into the clash between traditional animation and digital techniques. They discuss the viral nature of meme culture, especially in relation to Studio Ghibli's influence. AI advancements in text and image generation take center stage, sparking debates on creativity and ethics. Resilience in animation is highlighted through a leader's crisis management. Finally, the impact of recent tech acquisitions on the landscape of social media and art is examined, revealing the ongoing evolution of creative expression.

8 snips
Mar 26, 2025 • 1h 13min
208: AMA - Career Advice, Scarcity vs. Abundance, Parenting in AI Age & Future of Social Media
Explore early career advice that emphasizes passion alongside market demands. Discover how scarcity and abundance mindsets shape parenting, especially in the age of AI. Unpack the transformative impact of AI on career paths while valuing human relationships. Delve into the dynamics of online entrepreneurship and the significance of location. Finally, analyze the changing landscape of social media authenticity amidst rising AI content and shifting perceptions of genuine engagement.

Mar 19, 2025 • 1h 6min
207: AMA - Abercrombie’s Comeback, Wedding Economics, Loyalty to Brands, David Deutsch’s “Fun Criterion” & Is Work-Life Balance Possible?
The hosts dive into Abercrombie's surprising comeback, exploring its nostalgia-driven marketing aimed at a younger generation. Wedding economics take center stage as they discuss hidden costs and clever upselling tactics ruining budgets for couples. Brand loyalty is examined through personal anecdotes of drinking habits and emotional connections. They also tackle the quest for work-life balance, advocating for pursuing passion over rigidity in a fulfilling career. Finally, the concept of 'Fun Criterion' is introduced, emphasizing intuitive decision-making.

15 snips
Mar 12, 2025 • 1h 7min
206: Bitcoin Strategic Reserve, YouTube at 20, Ferrari Wild Economics & Manus DeepSeek Moment (?)
The discussion kicks off with bold insights into Bitcoin's strategic reserve and what it means for national economies. They dive deep into YouTube's 20-year transformation from quirky beginnings to a major cultural force impacting creators like Mr. Beast. The conversation shifts to Ferrari, spotlighting its unique economic model tied to luxury and racing heritage. A fascinating comparison is made between Honda's mass production and Ferrari's artisanal approach. Finally, they tackle AI advancements and their implications for technology and consumer experiences.

Mar 4, 2025 • 1h 14min
205: Crypto Strategic Reserve, Skype Shutting Down, Oscars & Mixue $14B IPO
The discussion kicks off with the concept of a U.S. crypto strategic reserve aimed at shielding the industry from government oversight. The conversation shifts to the nostalgic implications of Skype's shutdown, contrasting it with modern communication platforms. They delve into the Oscars' dwindling relevance, examining its shifting audience and cultural impact. Finally, the buzz around Mixue's impressive $14 billion IPO highlights the evolving landscape of fast food and its competition with giants like McDonald's, showcasing the intersection of pop culture and business.

Feb 26, 2025 • 1h 6min
204: $1.5bil Bybit Hack, Crypto Sell-off, Pig-Butchering Scams, Murdoch “Succession” Drama & Future of Local Media
The podcast dives into the shocking $1.5 billion hack of the Bybit exchange and its repercussions on the crypto market. It uncovers the chilling rise of 'pig butchering' scams that psychologically manipulate victims for financial gain. Discussions also touch on the chaotic state of Bitcoin trading and turbulent market predictions. Additionally, the hosts analyze the real-life drama of the Murdoch family, echoing themes from a popular TV show, and explore the evolving landscape of local media amidst trust issues.

62 snips
Feb 19, 2025 • 1h 18min
203: Libra $200M+ Rug, How We Use AI, OpenAI Deep Research & Vibe Coding
Dive into the drama of a $200M rug pull in the meme coin world, revealing its political ties. Discover how AI is reshaping creativity, from writing to art, and the fascinating concept of 'vibe coding' that champions imaginative coding over traditional skills. Explore the challenges of authenticity in AI-generated art and the delicate balance between efficiency and personal expression. The discussion wraps up with insights into AI's role in our daily lives and the complexities surrounding data privacy in this tech-driven landscape.
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