The Powers That Be: Daily

Matt Belloni joins Peter for an insider’s review of the Oscars. The duo examine the growing trend of awarding critically acclaimed films that few have actually seen, dissect the highs and lows of ABC’s broadcast, and explore why politics took a backseat on Hollywood’s biggest night. 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

Discover how Jeff Bezos is reshaping The Washington Post’s opinion section with a focus on personal liberties and free markets. Delve into the evolving landscape of MLB’s media rights after ESPN's exit, exploring potential new partnerships and challenges. The hosts also tackle the struggle for reliable information in today’s cluttered media world. Plus, enjoy a light-hearted look at Cincinnati's unique chili culture and a fun discussion on wine discovery that connects with the audience!

Dylan Byers, a journalist and media expert known for his insights into the industry, joins to unpack the chaos at MSNBC following a major programming overhaul. The discussion touches on Rachel Maddow's bold criticisms of network leadership and the implications for MSNBC's future. Dylan explores the challenges of maintaining diversity amidst show cancellations and the financial strains faced by producers. He also highlights the network's reliance on star anchors and how these shifts could redefine the landscape of opinion journalism.

Leigh Ann Caldwell, a Puck journalist and Capitol Hill expert, dives into the political chaos sparked by Elon Musk's spending cuts. She reveals bipartisan concerns among politicians as both Democrats and Republicans grapple with the implications of Musk's decisions. With a potential government shutdown looming, Caldwell discusses how this turmoil could play into the hands of Speaker Mike Johnson as he navigates a divided Congress. Expect insights on how Musk's actions are reshaping political landscapes and influencing budget negotiations.

Lauren Sherman, a savvy journalist from Puck, dives into the world of brand collaborations spurred by ‘The White Lotus.’ She discusses how many partnerships come off as inauthentic, questioning whether they genuinely boost sales or tarnish the show's luxury image. Lauren also tackles Nike's alliance with Skims and the company's struggles with women's apparel, highlighting missed opportunities in connecting with female consumers. The conversation paints a vivid picture of the evolving fashion landscape and the challenges iconic brands face.

Julia Ioffe, a journalist renowned for her expertise on Russia and Ukraine, joins to discuss the ongoing war in Ukraine amidst Trump's unconventional peace moves. She critiques the potential fallout from any pact favoring Putin, stressing that it could undermine U.S. diplomacy. The conversation explores the fraught U.S.-Ukraine relationship, possible isolationism, and the resilience of Ukrainians against oppression. Ioffe also highlights the historical context that shapes current conflicts and warns against transactional foreign policy.

Dive into the shifting media landscape as experts analyze the changing narratives surrounding Trump’s press coverage. They discuss CBS News's struggle with leadership and declining viewership while grappling with legal issues. ESPN's challenges in adapting to a digital world are also on the table, alongside the decline of its baseball partnerships. Discover potential strategies for Major League Baseball to enhance profitability, potentially echoing NASCAR's successful multi-partner model. It's a fascinating look at the future of media!

John Ourand, author of The Varsity and host of The Varsity Podcast, shares insights into the NBA's disappointing All-Star Weekend and its struggle with viewership. He explores the ongoing standoff between MLB and ESPN over broadcasting rights, emphasizing the shifting dynamics in sports media. The conversation also ventures into the realm of politics, pondering if Stephen A. Smith or Mark Cuban could actually run for president, and what their unique appeal might mean for younger voters.

Tara Palmeri, a seasoned journalist and political analyst, dives deep into Elon Musk's controversial role in Donald Trump's political strategy. They debate Musk's dual perception as a benefactor or a mere tool in Trump's agenda, shaped by new polling data. The conversation touches on Musk's impact on public perception of government efficiency and inflation amidst rising prices. They also discuss the potential fallout of budget cuts on global health, linking economic policies to increasing poverty and extremism, creating a thought-provoking dialogue about power dynamics.

Eriq Gardner, a journalist known for his insights on media and law, discusses Trump's escalating legal battle against the media and its implications. He explores whether this conflict could lead to a state of mutually assured destruction for journalism. Key topics include the threat to libel protections from Trump allies, the rise of billionaire-funded defamation initiatives, and the pressing need for balanced legal safeguards in today’s polarized climate. Gardner also examines the potential for the Supreme Court to rethink landmark rulings on freedom of the press.