The Powers That Be: Daily

Lauren Sherman, fashion expert and author of Puck's Line Sheet, joins guest host Julia Alexander to discuss the lavish wedding of Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez. They explore how vintage and custom pieces overshadow traditional high-end gowns, reflecting changing tastes. The conversation shifts to Jonathan Anderson's impactful debut at Dior, hinting at a pivotal shift in high fashion's future amidst current industry challenges like a spending slump in China and the rise of secondhand luxury.

John Ourand, author of Puck's Varsity Newsletter, joins Julia Alexander to discuss the implications of Paramount's recent $16 million settlement with Trump on CBS Sports. They dive into how this might reshape CBS under Jeff Shell’s leadership. The conversation also unpacks the rise of skinny bundles, the fierce competition for sports rights, and Amazon Channels’ advantages. With the future of TV hanging in the balance, they explore the evolving dynamics of sports broadcasting, audience engagement, and the shift towards simplified subscription models.

Ian Krietzberg, a Puck colleague and author of The Hidden Layer newsletter on AI, joins Leigh Ann Caldwell to dissect the chaotic unraveling of a controversial A.I. provision in recent legislation. They delve into the paradoxes of Trump’s A.I. strategy, such as the contradictory push for deregulation alongside a massive investment in the Stargate Initiative. The discussion also highlights bipartisan tensions over AI governance and the necessity of protecting vulnerable populations from potential harms of emerging technologies.

Eriq Gardner, a legal expert at Puck, joins Leigh Ann Caldwell to dissect the Supreme Court's surprising ruling affecting birthright citizenship. They unpack the decision's actual focus on restricting lower courts from issuing nationwide injunctions, highlighting its ripple effects on immigration and foreign aid. The conversation dives into how this ruling reshapes federal litigation and challenges lawyers and policymakers alike, all while navigating the evolving power dynamics between state and federal authorities.

Anna Wintour's potential exit from Vogue sparks discussions about legacy leadership and succession. The duo examines how Condé Nast is adapting to a leaner operational model. Netflix's new collaboration with TF1 to offer live content reflects a strategic pivot amidst fierce competition. They also highlight the shifting media landscape, where major players are distancing from traditional news, reshaping the industry’s future. Join in for insights on fashion, streaming dynamics, and the media's transformation!

In this insightful conversation, Ian Krietzberg, Puck's AI expert and author of 'The Hidden Layer' newsletter, joins guest host Julia Alexander to discuss the dual nature of artificial intelligence. They dissect the growing fears surrounding AI, clarifying common misconceptions while addressing a pivotal court ruling regarding copyright issues in AI training. Krietzberg emphasizes the importance of a balanced perspective on AI's potential, urging thoughtful integration in various industries. The dialogue blends humor with critical analysis as they navigate the intricate landscape of AI technology.

Kim Masters, a prominent journalist and author for Puck, joins Julia Alexander to dissect the intricate CBS-Trump legal saga. They delve into the potential impact of a $20 million settlement on CBS's ‘60 Minutes’ and discuss the ethical dilemmas that arise in politically charged media environments. The conversation also turns to Apple's forthcoming ‘F1’ movie, weighing its potential as a game-changer against the risks of a costly failure, showcasing the turbulent interplay between Hollywood and corporate ambitions.

Eriq Gardner, a legal expert covering media and entertainment, joins Julia Ioffe to discuss the implications of Olivia Trusty's confirmation to the F.C.C. They explore how the new Republican majority could lead to deregulated media ownership, favoring conservative local media consolidation. Eriq also delves into NPR's ongoing legal battle with the Trump administration regarding federal funding, shedding light on the challenges faced by public broadcasting. Their insightful conversation highlights the evolving landscape of media in today’s political climate.

Leigh Ann Caldwell, a seasoned journalist at Puck covering Congress and politics, weighs in on the political fallout following U.S. strikes on Iran. She highlights the stark contrast between a unified Republican response and the fragmented reaction from Democrats. The discussion dives into the implications of military actions, internal party conflicts, and the balance of power concerning foreign policy. Caldwell also touches on American energy dependence on uranium and the urgent need for domestic solutions in the face of global challenges.

Jon Kelly, an expert journalist at Puck, joins Dylan Byers to dissect Substack's shaky business model, characterized by high cash burn and stagnating valuation. They debate whether Substack is a tech platform or just a media business in disguise. The conversation highlights the unique challenges faced by writers switching from legacy media to Substack, exploring financial struggles and varied degrees of success among creators. Ultimately, they navigate the evolving media landscape and the entrepreneurial risks tied to independent writing.