The Powers That Be: Daily

Jon Kelly, an expert in media and politics, teams up with Olympics enthusiast Peter Hamby for a compelling discussion. They dive into the chaotic landscape of the Harris-Trump TikTok election and assess Warner Brothers Discovery's corporate troubles under David Zaslav's leadership. The duo also tackles Axios's layoffs and the shifting dynamics in media innovation, as well as the transformative impact of AI across industries. Their blend of humor and critical analysis keeps the conversation lively and engaging!

John Ourand, a sports media expert, dives into NBC's surprising Olympics ratings and what it means for the future of TV. He discusses the new sports streaming platform, Venu, and its hefty price tag, pondering its value for consumers. The conversation also ventures into the HBO documentary 'Charlie Hustle,' reflecting on Pete Rose's tumultuous legacy and the impact of gambling on professional sports. Overall, it's a blend of ratings, streaming challenges, and the intricate ties between sports and integrity.

Lauren Sherman, a fashion expert, brings her insights on Nike's challenges in connecting with Gen Z as the brand grapples with fierce competition from rivals. They discuss the missteps in Nike's strategy, including its pivot to a lifestyle marketing approach and the fallout from reducing wholesale partnerships. Additionally, Lauren humorously critiques politicians' fashion choices, debating the trend of wearing sneakers with suits and advocating for classic elegance instead.

Tim Walz, the friendly governor of Minnesota, joins political analyst John Heilemann to dissect the strategic selection of Walz as Kamala Harris's running mate. They dive into how Walz’s appeal could energize Democrats and impact the 2024 elections. The duo explores the challenges of choosing vice presidential candidates, the importance of connecting with rural voters, and the political intrigue behind candidate selection. They even touch on the quirky vibe at the Wiener's Circle, adding a fun twist to their analysis.

Julia Ioffe, a foreign policy expert, shares crucial insights on the growing tensions between Iran and Israel, suggesting we're on the edge of wider conflict. Meanwhile, Evan Gershkovich, a journalist released in a complex prisoner exchange, discusses his emotional reunion with family. They highlight the intricate web of international relations and the role of diplomacy in these high-stakes situations, showcasing how personal stories intertwine with geopolitics.

Norah O'Donnell, a veteran CBS News anchor, discusses her departure and its implications for the future of evening news. Joined by Jon Kelly, they explore the changing landscape of journalism, including the challenge of engaging younger audiences. The conversation takes a turn towards Vice President Kamala Harris's strained media relations and the need for her to connect more with journalists as the election approaches. Humorously, they debate the merits of including three-on-three basketball in the Olympics, highlighting the evolving nature of media.

John Ourand, a seasoned sports media expert, and David Zaslav, the CEO of Warner Bros. Discovery, delve into the Olympic impact on NBCUniversal, highlighting unprecedented ratings and revenue for Peacock. They also examine the evolving viewership trends, especially among younger generations shifting from traditional broadcasting to streaming. The discussion shifts to WBD’s legal challenges with the NBA, revealing how these may influence Zaslav's future negotiations with cable providers amid a complex media landscape.

Julia Ioffe, a prominent journalist known for her insights on major news and political affairs, joins the discussion to unravel the complexities of a potential prisoner swap between Russia and the West. They explore Putin's motivations amid escalating tensions, considering cases like Paul Whelan. The conversation also dives into Kamala Harris's strategic choice of Brian Nelson to lead her campaign policy team, reflecting on how this move could reshape her political strategy and address past policy shifts.

William D. Cohan, a seasoned financial journalist, joins to unpack the rollercoaster of Bill Ackman’s new fund designed for everyday investors. They dive into how Ackman's tactics mirror Warren Buffett’s and debate whether his controversial reputation could hinder success. The conversation shifts to the unexpected union of wealthy investors with political figures like Donald Trump, analyzing how social media reshapes finance and attracts younger investors. Cohan also critiques the political views of affluent leaders, questioning their sincerity amid financial prowess.

Tara Palmeri, a savvy political analyst, and J.D. Vance, a notable politician facing media struggles, delve into the dynamic 2024 presidential race. They discuss Kamala Harris's surge in momentum and how she's gaining excitement from first-time voters. The duo contrasts Harris's favorable growing image with Vance's hardships in public perception, emphasizing the role of media strategies. They also touch on the shifting political landscape and the impact of endorsements, revealing the complexities of modern campaigning.