The Powers That Be: Daily

Bill Cohan, Puck's Wall Street chronicler, shares insights about the financial community's pulse ahead of the unpredictable election. He reveals the nervousness on Wall Street, predominantly holding Democratic views yet fearing a Trump resurgence. The conversation also speculates on the future of Paramount under new leadership. Cohan and Dylan explore how political endorsements are shaping industry shifts, the impact of technological advancements on media, and the financial implications of upcoming elections.

Lauren Sherman, Puck's fashion expert and co-author of 'Selling Sexy,' joins to dissect the shocking sex trafficking scandal involving former Abercrombie & Fitch CEO Michael Jeffries. They discuss how these revelations might impact the brand's revival amid its controversial past. The conversation also dives into the H.R. struggles at Condé Nast, revealing deeper tensions within the company and the lasting influence of Anna Wintour as it navigates a shifting cultural landscape.

John Ourand, Puck's ace sports correspondent, delves into ESPN's groundbreaking NFL deal, revealing the frictions it’s causing among other media partners. He and host Dylan Byers also dissect the highly anticipated Yankees-Dodgers World Series, predicting its potential to break viewership records. Their discussion highlights the emotional connections cities have with their teams and the evolving dynamics of sports broadcasting, showcasing the intricate dance between ratings, consumer benefits, and network rivalries.

Tara Palmeri, a seasoned political reporter at Puck, joins Dylan Byers to dissect the final stages of the election cycle. They explore Trump’s unusual optimism amidst unfolding challenges, juxtaposed with Harris’s strategic media outreach. The conversation highlights the contrasting campaign techniques aimed at attracting undecided voters. Additionally, they delve into the pressures both candidates face as Election Day looms, shedding light on the intricate dynamics that could sway voter turnout in this fiercely competitive landscape.

Kamala Harris is ramping up her media strategy as the election draws near, highlighting the critical role of outreach in political campaigns. The podcast also delves into the NFL's bold decision to simulcast Monday Night Football on ESPN and ABC, exploring its implications for broadcasting relationships and viewer engagement. With ratings at stake, the shift spotlights challenges in the sports media landscape, including evolving viewer habits and the influence of alternative broadcasts like the Manning cast.

Bill Cohan, a financial journalist with a keen eye on Wall Street, joins Peter Hamby to dive into James Dolan's extravagant Sphere in Las Vegas. They question its financial sustainability despite being a consumer hit. Cohan also shares insights on Ron Perelman’s health scare, shedding light on his newfound tranquility amidst financial woes. The conversation weaves through the intriguing contrasts of entertainment success against looming debts and the personal trials of high-profile figures navigating their volatile fortunes.

Eriq Gardner, a Puck legal expert, delves into the quirky legal tussle between A&E and MGM regarding the show 'Live PD'. He highlights the complexities of reality TV copyright laws and the implications of police portrayals. The conversation then shifts to Jack Nicklaus’s lawsuit to reclaim his life rights from Nicklaus Companies, raising critical questions about celebrity identity and rights management in the age of deepfake technology. The discussion offers a captivating glimpse into the legal challenges shaping modern media.

Tara Palmeri, a keen political journalist from Puck, joins Peter to discuss Donald Trump Jr.'s emerging influence in the Trump campaign. They delve into the pivotal role North Carolina plays in the election and why many voters remain undecided. The conversation also highlights the complex balance between personal lives and political responsibilities for candidates, and the ways shifting voter sentiments can impact campaign strategies. With insights into a changing electorate and political allegiances, the discussion vividly captures the stakes ahead.

Lauren Sherman, author of "Selling Sexy: Victoria's Secret and the Unraveling of an American Icon," shares her expertise on the significant rise and dramatic fall of Victoria's Secret. She reveals how the brand once dominated American consumer culture and contrasts its decline with the success of more inclusive competitors. Additionally, Lauren discusses Kim Jones' exit from Fendi, exploring the potential impact this shift may have on luxury fashion and the broader implications for industry leadership.

A dramatic showdown unfolds at CBS News after a contentious interview shakes the foundations of traditional media. The discussion explores the implications of leadership crises and the search for journalistic integrity in a chaotic landscape. Meanwhile, NBC faces criticism for missed opportunities in promoting impactful stories, highlighting internal tensions and the struggle for relevance. The episode also tackles the shifting salary dynamics for news anchors, pondering the sustainability of high compensation amid changing market conditions.