The Powers That Be: Daily

Eriq Gardner, a writer for What I'm Hearing, joins Leigh Ann Caldwell to navigate a bizarre yet intriguing future where Trump seeks a cut of individual copyrights to assert influence over Hollywood. They discuss how this could actually support the argument for A.I.-created works and the potential implications for copyright laws. The conversation also explores government interventions in the entertainment industry, the balance of economic policies, and the evolving tensions between individual rights and government control in copyright matters.

Julia Ioffe, a journalist at Puck and expert on Trump, Putin, and Zelensky, joins Leigh Ann Caldwell to discuss Trump's diplomatic efforts—or lack thereof—with key world leaders. They analyze how Trump's inability to secure agreements could embolden Russia and complicate U.S.-European ties. The conversation highlights the peculiar role of Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, who recently received a medal from Putin. They also touch on the shifting geopolitical landscape, especially involving China and India, amidst the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

Step into the world of media rebranding as two hosts dissect MSNBC's controversial transition to 'MSNOW' amid mixed reactions. They humorously critique the network's evolving identity and explore the strategic challenges faced by traditional media in a digital age. Meanwhile, ESPN's new Everything app promises to revolutionize sports consumption with its social media-like interface. Join the discussion on nostalgic baseball watching, modern fandom, and how changing viewer habits are reshaping the landscape of sports media.

Aurora James, a designer, writer, and founder of the 15% Pledge, discusses the dynamic interplay between fashion and politics. She highlights the impact of celebrity activism, especially Taylor Swift's role in influencing public awareness. The conversation takes a turn towards nostalgia, the creativity crisis in media, and the challenges American designers face with tariffs and fast fashion. James also shares her insights on the future of fashion amidst evolving technology and societal changes, promising a lively exploration of these pressing topics.

Leigh Ann Caldwell, a journalist known for her insights on redistricting and national politics, joins Peter to discuss the turbulent congressional map battles in states like Texas and California, and how Trump’s tactics aim to marginalize Democrats. They also dive into Gavin Newsom’s rise as a potential 2028 presidential contender, exploring his savvy use of digital humor to connect with voters. The conversation highlights the intricate dance of political strategy amid ongoing conflicts within the Democratic Party.

Bill Cohan, an expert journalist at Puck known for his insights into tech stocks and SPACs, joins Peter Hamby for a thought-provoking discussion. They analyze the recent decline in tech stocks and debate whether the hype around A.I. is justified. With eyes on Big Tech leaders like Sam Altman and Mark Zuckerberg, they explore their financial maneuvers. The conversation also dives into Chamath Palihapitiya's return to SPACs and the associated risks for average investors, highlighting the intricate ties between technology investments and political dynamics.

Ian Krietzberg, author of Puck's The Hidden Layer, dives into the fascinating tensions between AI and the music industry. He unpacks the rise and fall of the A.I. band Velvet Sundown, which garnered a million plays before its true nature was revealed. Krietzberg also discusses CharacterAI's shift towards entertainment, exploring the implications for mental health and user attachments. The episode raises critical ethical questions about AI in creativity and the addictive nature of consumer technologies, urging a thoughtful approach.

Matt Belloni, author of Puck's What I'm Hearing newsletter, joins guest host Julia Alexander to analyze the unexpected success of 'Kpop Demon Hunters,' Netflix's second-most-watched original film, and its potential to rattle Sony's executives. They also delve into the Duffer Brothers' surprising move from Netflix to Paramount, speculating on the broader implications for Hollywood's creative landscape and how such transitions might impact major streaming platforms in an ever-evolving entertainment market.

David Ellison's ambitious vision for Paramount Skydance takes center stage, emphasizing premium content amid financial challenges. The discussion dives into legacy media’s struggle to tap into younger audiences through influencer partnerships. Reflecting on personal growth through golf, the hosts dissect Ellison's media strategies, including a notable UFC broadcasting deal. The convergence of cable news and podcasts sparks a conversation about artistic vision versus corporate consolidation in an evolving media landscape shaped by digital creators.

Sara Fischer, a media reporter at Axios specializing in business and technology, returns to discuss major sports media developments. She dives into Paramount's staggering $7.7 billion deal with UFC and the seismic pacts ESPN has made with the NFL and WWE. The conversation explores how traditional broadcasters are adapting amid the fierce competition from streaming services. Fischer also highlights the implications of these evolving sports rights negotiations and what they mean for both viewers and the industry's future.