The Powers That Be: Daily

Eriq Gardner, a journalist specializing in media and entertainment law, joins Peter Hamby to shed light on FCC Chairman Brendan Carr's controversial actions and their implications for the media landscape. They discuss Carr's slow approach to the $8 billion Skydance-Paramount merger and his fiery criticisms of giants like Comcast and Disney. The conversation dives into Carr's possible motivations, questioning whether he's angling for a position in MAGA media. They also explore how regulatory challenges shape the future of streaming and the delicate balance of media independence.

Julia Ioffe swings by the pod to discuss the state of peace negotiations between Ukraine and Russia—if there are any negotiations to be made at all. As Putin plays coy and Zelensky holds the line, Julia explains why Trump’s mounting frustration could, ironically, be Kyiv’s best hope. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Ourand joins Peter to discuss the surging popularity of the NFL Draft, and which of the streaming giants might bid on the rights to broadcast the yearly football spectacle—and why, to no surprise, YouTube and Google are in the driver’s seat. Then, John breaks down the NBA Playoffs ratings, and why a Thunder-Cavs Finals matchup would be “death to ABC.” To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Leigh Ann Caldwell joins Peter Hamby to dig into the messy Senate G.O.P. primary showdown brewing in Texas between John Cornyn and Ken Paxton—a race which riled up the White House after Paxton hired political strategist Jeff Roe, a Trump bête noire, to run his campaign. Then they chronicle the hard times facing Democratic lobbyists in Trump’s D.C. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jon Kelly rejoins Peter to dig into Netflix’s precedent-setting Q1 earnings—its first without subscriber numbers, and the clearest sign yet that Netflix has outgrown the streaming wars, setting its sights not on Hollywood, but on bigger tech rivals like YouTube and Meta. Then, the duo preview White House Correspondents Dinner week in Washington, and what's different about the Beltway party circuit during Trump II. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Cohan, a prominent financial journalist and author of 'Dry Powder,' joins Peter to explore the turbulent relationship between Donald Trump and Fed Chair Jerome Powell. They dissect Trump's push for rate cuts amidst economic turmoil and the implications of potentially ousting Powell. Cohan also breaks down the rollercoaster journey of Newsmax's IPO, questioning its true value and the impact of Trump's media landscape on investors. This insightful discussion unveils the interplay of politics, monetary policy, and media chaos.

Leigh Ann Caldwell, a journalist focused on Capitol Hill, joins to explore a surprising shift in the Republican Party: the potential for taxing the wealthy. This marks a major change in GOP ideology, especially as Trump’s tax provisions face expiration. They also discuss Elon Musk's declining influence within MAGA circles and how his past financial contributions are impacting political alliances. The conversation highlights evolving dynamics that could reshape future electoral strategies for both parties.

Kim Masters, a seasoned journalist at The Hollywood Reporter, joins the discussion to unravel the intricate ties between Donald Trump and Hollywood executives. She explores the rising anxieties surrounding Trump's influence in the industry, particularly regarding his relationship with studio heads. The conversation also dives into the fate of Warner Bros. Discovery's co-heads, Mike De Luca and Pam Abdy, and whether their recent success with the ‘Minecraft’ movie can save them from impending ousting.

John Ourand, author of The Varsity and host of its accompanying podcast, dives into the fascinating dynamics of Augusta National's Masters broadcast control. He reveals how the tournament's unique traditions shape viewer experience and media strategy. Shifting gears, Ourand discusses the high-stakes negotiations for UFC's media rights, exploring whether a new partner will emerge to meet the $1 billion mark and the broader implications for sports media in a changing landscape. It's a compelling look at the intersection of sports, nostalgia, and modern broadcasting.

Jon Kelly, founder of Puck and a notable golf aficionado, joins Peter for an engaging discussion on the media's response to economic shifts. They dive into how tariffs and potential recessions are reshaping advertising revenues, especially for S.V.O.D. companies. The conversation also touches on the contrasting approaches of CNBC and Bloomberg, revealing insights about their respective strategies amidst economic turbulence. Amidst serious topics, the duo shares light-hearted moments over personal interests like music and golf.