The Powers That Be: Daily

Marion Maneker, author of 'Wallpower' and an expert on the auction world, joins to dissect the recent controversy engulfing Sotheby’s and its billionaire owner, Patrick Drahi. They discuss allegations of unethical side-dealing among employees that have given rival Christie's a competitive edge. Marion also explores the shifting culture at Sotheby’s, the ethical dilemmas faced in the art market, and how reputation impacts client decisions. The podcast promises a captivating look at high-stakes art auctions amidst scandal.

Bill Cohan, an expert journalist at Puck and author known for his deep insights on Wall Street, joins to unravel Trump's controversial role in the private sector from the White House. They discuss how Trump picked corporate winners, often using taxpayer money for his deals, while his motivations remain unclear. The conversation dives into the potential fallout of mixing politics with business interests, critiques of corporate governance, and the economic implications of a former president's bond portfolio on market confidence.

Abby Livingston, a savvy partner at Best and the Brightest, joins Leigh Ann Caldwell to dissect the charged political atmosphere in Washington. They dive into the looming government funding deadline and the potential ramifications of Iowa Senator Joni Ernst's retirement for the GOP. The duo also navigates the shifting landscape ahead of the midterms, including gerrymandering's impact on Democrats and the rise of a possible Democratic wave that could reshape the electoral map. It's a rollercoaster of political insights you won't want to miss!

Delve into the fierce carriage dispute between Fox and YouTube TV, revealing how shifting dynamics are reshaping media negotiations. Discover Gavin Newsom's rising political star power as he captures the attention of Democratic voters and positions himself for 2028. Conversations also explore the changing landscape of swing voters and the essential role of emotional engagement in modern politics. With a unique take on Trump's influence and the impact of diverse media platforms, this discussion is both timely and engaging.

Jon Kelly and Peter Hamby delve into Generation Alpha's surprising love for movie theaters, reflecting a revival in communal viewing experiences. They explore the evolving landscape of college sports, highlighting changes driven by financial strategies and new coaching dynamics. The hosts discuss the impact of streaming services on traditional film consumption, focusing on Netflix's innovative release tactics. The conversation touches on the nostalgic appeal of cinema in a franchise-dominated market and the shifting perceptions of what it means to be a student-athlete today.

Unravel the intriguing tales of famous women like Lindsay Lohan and Judy Garland, often dismissed as 'crazy' by society. Explore how these labels have shaped their lives and public perceptions. The hosts delve into the historical context behind these judgments, blending humor with heartbreak. Each story offers a poignant reflection on the societal tendency to label and dismiss women, prompting listeners to reconsider what lies beneath the surface of these charged words.

Andy Lack, former chairman of NBC News and MSNBC, discusses the turbulent landscape of television news. He delves into the challenges posed by corporate changes and the impact of local journalism's struggles. Lack shares insights on fostering sustainable news outlets in the Deep South and highlights the critical role of investigative journalism in communities. The conversation also touches on the shift from traditional media to streaming, raising questions about quality and trust in news during polarized times.

John Heilemann, an influential journalist and host of InPolitik, joins to dissect how Democrats in blue states are tackling Trump’s false claims about crime and the National Guard. They analyze shifting narratives in American politics, focusing on high-profile governors like Gavin Newsom and J.B. Pritzker as they navigate the turbulent political landscape ahead of 2028. Heilemann emphasizes the balance between aggressive tactics and maintaining dignity while addressing the diverse concerns of urban voters.

John Ourand, a sports media expert from Puck and host of The Varsity podcast, joins to explore the college football scene as the season kicks off. They discuss the buzz around Lee Corso's final appearance on College GameDay and how the evolving attention economy is reshaping sports coverage. The conversation touches on the controversial hiring of Dave Portnoy by Fox and the professionalization of college athletics, including Bill Belichick's surprising move to UNC. Expect insights into fan engagement and the rising popularity of North Carolina football.

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.