
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

Jun 4, 2025 • 49min
218: PSG Win, Dyson’s $20B Run, Mary Meeker’s Trends, Waymo vs. Lyft & $500B+ Middle East AI Deal
The hosts dive into PSG's dramatic victory, celebrating how sports triumphs spark chaos and joy. They shift gears to explore Dyson's innovative $20B journey, linking tech advancements to economic shifts. The talk moves to the swift rise of generative AI, spotlighting ChatGPT's impressive growth. The implications of major investments in AI resonate alongside discussions on autonomous vehicles and geopolitical dynamics, highlighting how governments leverage tech to enhance productivity. A captivating blend of sports, business, and technology unfolds!

11 snips
May 28, 2025 • 59min
217: Google I/O Wrap, OpenAI’s $6.4B for Jony Ive & How Apple Fumbled AI
The discussion kicks off with insights from Google I/O, spotlighting key AI advancements and their implications. The hosts dive into OpenAI’s hefty investment in Jony Ive, examining its potential impact. They explore Apple's missteps in the AI arena, reflecting on the crucial role of design in tech innovation. Lively anecdotes and competitive strategies highlight the ever-evolving landscape of AI, as well as the practical integration of wearable technology into daily life.

10 snips
May 21, 2025 • 52min
216: Burrito Loans, AI Product vs. Distribution, Power Laws in Online Dating
Dive into the quirky world of Burrito Loans, where finance meets food culture in a hilarious twist. Explore the competitive landscape of AI products and the crucial role of distribution in tech success. Discover the fascinating power laws shaping modern dating, with a humorous take on how online profiles affect romantic outcomes. The hosts also share nostalgic summer job stories, blending personal anecdotes with insights on startups and market trends.

39 snips
May 14, 2025 • 1h 20min
215: Rent vs. Buy, ChatGPT in College, OpenAI’s For-Profit Pivot & Is Google Search Cooked?
The discussion dives into the hot debate of renting versus buying, unveiling financial insights that could change your perspective. There's a fascinating look at how ChatGPT is reshaping college education, challenging traditional methods of learning. The conversation then shifts to OpenAI's intriguing pivot to a for-profit model, raising questions about the future of AI services. Lastly, the hosts tackle whether Google Search is losing its edge amid the rise of AI-driven alternatives, sparking a lively debate on the future of online search.

18 snips
May 7, 2025 • 1h 34min
214: Warren Buffett 60-Year Run, Berkshire's $150B+ Apple Bet, iPhone App Store Lawsuit and OpenAI's "Glazing" Controversy
This discussion dives into Warren Buffett's legendary investment strategies, focusing on his 60-year run and a massive $150B bet on Apple. They also explore the iPhone App Store lawsuit, highlighting controversial commission practices affecting developers. OpenAI's 'glazing' controversy is unpacked, revealing how AI engages users and the potential ethical implications. The conversation is punctuated with insights on evolving investment philosophies and the impact of technological advancements on financial strategies.

15 snips
Apr 30, 2025 • 52min
213: White Lotus Review, Case Against Streaming TV, Favorite Biographies & Business of Casinos
The hosts dive into the nuances of the captivating series White Lotus, analyzing its unique storytelling. They critique the drawbacks of streaming TV, highlighting the impact on narrative quality and viewer engagement. There’s a fascinating discussion on the evolving landscape of Las Vegas casinos, transforming from mere gaming spots to full entertainment experiences. Additionally, they share their favorite biographies, shedding light on influential figures and the complexities of their decisions. Expect insights that blend culture, business, and a touch of humor!

17 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.