The Grill Room

Sara Fischer, Axios’s media reporter known for her insights into the media landscape, joins the conversation to dissect the changing tides at MSNBC under Rebecca Kutler's leadership. They explore strategic shifts aimed at revitalizing the network while assessing the broader implications for broadcast news in a streaming-dominated world. The discussion highlights the challenges traditional news faces against digital platforms and the rising significance of podcasts, emphasizing the evolving nature of audience engagement in today's media landscape.

Eriq Gardner joins Dylan to dissect the wave of MAGA-driven lawsuits targeting Trump’s media adversaries. Eriq highlights casino magnate Steve Wynn’s efforts to revive his 2018 defamation suit against the Associated Press, which he hopes is elevated to the Supreme Court, potentially setting the stage for a SCOTUS showdown that could challenge the landmark ‘Times v. Sullivan’ ruling. The duo debate whether a better legal framework exists and suggest how media organizations can navigate these shifting legal battlegrounds. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Troy Young, the former president of Hearst Magazines, discusses the seismic changes AI brings to the media landscape. He highlights how AI accelerates declines in traditional media and underscores the necessity for stronger IP protections. Young dives into the challenges that legacy brands face while navigating an AI-driven future and explores innovative monetization strategies. The conversation also reflects on the balance between technological efficiency and the depth of journalism, emphasizing the evolution of audience engagement.

John Kelly, co-founder and head of Puck, dives into pressing trends shaping the media landscape. He discusses CBS News’s struggles amidst their corporate ties to Trump, and how Fox News is solidifying its position. Kelly also shares insights on how renowned publications like 'The Atlantic' and 'The New Yorker' can adapt to thrive in an AI-driven world, emphasizing the need for innovation in the print industry. The conversation highlights the evolving relationships between media, business, and politics.

Emily Sundberg, creator of Feed Me, joins Dylan for an in-depth look at her meteoric rise as an independent Substacker. Having amassed 60,000 subscribers—and counting—Emily shares how authenticity, adaptability, and audience engagement have fueled her success. She also discusses self-funding her company without outside financing, the potential risks of a fully decentralized media landscape, and her plans to expand beyond Substack while leveraging her growing platform. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Remnick, the editor of The New Yorker for nearly 30 years, shares insights on the magazine's centennial journey. He reflects on its evolution from a comic publication to a serious journal, tackling modern challenges like AI and maintaining a loyal subscriber base. Remnick discusses the importance of high-quality storytelling and strong leadership in the media landscape, while celebrating the enduring legacy and impact of influential journalism. Personal anecdotes add a rich layer to the story of this iconic magazine.

Nicholas Thompson, CEO of The Atlantic, discusses the existential challenges facing media in the age of A.I. He shares insights into building direct reader relationships to reduce dependence on tech platforms. The conversation touches on reviving print media and optimizing paywalls to enhance profitability. Thompson also explores the transformational impact of A.I. on journalism, emphasizing the need for traditional media to adapt amidst the rise of low-cost A.I. competitors. His perspective merges expertise from tech journalism with strategic leadership in today's evolving landscape.

Chuck Todd, a former Meet the Press anchor and veteran NBC News political journalist, shares insights on his departure from the network after nearly two decades. He emphasizes the urgent need to revitalize local journalism to rebuild trust in media and connect audiences with politics. The conversation also delves into the changing dynamics of political interviews and the corporate challenges facing news organizations today. Todd explores how podcasts could evolve into captivating long-form programming, similar to ESPN's daytime shows.

MSNBC’s Chris Hayes joins Dylan for a thrilling and sobering deep dive into how social media and smartphones hijacked our brains; how attention became the single most powerful currency in the political economy; and why Donald Trump is singularly effective at commanding it. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Ourand joins Dylan for an insider’s look at how the NFL is preparing for the upcoming Super Bowl in New Orleans—and whether the league is feeling the effects of small-market Chiefs fatigue. The duo also delve into the crucial role of live sports rights in keeping media businesses afloat, and explore how streaming giants like Amazon and Netflix are reshaping the future of sports broadcasting. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices