Big Take

Bloomberg journalist Jason Leopold discusses using FOIA requests to increase government transparency. They dive into dissecting the FOIA process, challenges of analyzing redacted documents, and stories brought to light by FOIA records.

Exploring Gucci's struggle with maintaining luxury status and market positioning, challenges in the world of luxury fashion, and leadership challenges in the luxury sector. Delving into the impact of heavy discounting, power struggles, creative direction shifts, and the Pinaults' plan to rescue the brand. Discussing the delicate balance between fashion trends and luxury status, targeted distribution strategy, and investor impatience in the market.

The discovery of natural gas in Qatar back in the 1970s was a transformative economic windfall for the country and its long-time rulers, the Al Thani royal family. Since then, the Al Thanis have been spending that money to build Qatar’s global brand – while strengthening diplomatic ties with powerful, and sometimes unlikely, allies. On today’s Big Take podcast, Bloomberg wealth reporter Devon Pendleton joins host Sarah Holder to trace the meteoric rise of Qatar and its royal family, and discuss how the war in Gaza and escalating conflict in the Middle East has made the country’s mediator role as critical as ever.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

The podcast discusses the escalating tensions between China and the Philippines in the South China Sea, highlighting the importance of controlling the energy-rich waterway. It delves into the strategic military exercises, challenges in communication systems, and China's dominance in the region. The narrative explores the impact on global trade, mutual defense strategies, and the potential for conflicts involving major powers.

The podcast features Divyendra Jadoun, 'The Indian Deepfaker', discussing the rise of campaign deep fakes in Indian politics. Topics include the demand for deep fakes in political campaigns, concerns about disinformation, challenges in regulating the technology, and the use of AI in creating altered videos for politicians in India.

Exploring Boeing's rise, fall, and public reckoning after major safety incidents. Discussion on FAA oversight, safety culture crisis, and leadership changes at Boeing. Insightful analysis on rebuilding trust with passengers and facing regulatory scrutiny.

Exploring the global cocoa shortage and its impact on the chocolate industry, from Ghana's cocoa farms to Brooklyn's chocolate factories. Issues like extreme weather, deadly fungus, and production decline are threatening the future of chocolate. Cocoa farmers in Ghana face challenges with limited benefits, while chocolatiers in Brooklyn navigate price hikes and recipe adjustments to combat the crisis.

Bloomberg investigative reporter Olivia Carville discusses the alarming trend of scammers catfishing teen boys and driving some to suicide. The podcast sheds light on the tragic consequences of online extortion schemes targeting vulnerable individuals, the impact on victims and their families, and efforts to combat these online crimes.

Israel bureau chief Ethan Bronner and national security editor Nick Wadhams discuss Iran's recent drone and missile attack on Israel, exploring potential escalation, Israel's response, and international efforts to prevent further conflict.

Joe Brumm, the creator of 'Bluey', discusses the show's $2 billion valuation and uncertain future. Topics include the broad appeal of 'Bluey', managing commercial success, and rumors about the show's continuity without Brumm. Special extended episode sparking excitement among fans.