The Powers That Be: Daily

Delve into the fierce carriage dispute between Fox and YouTube TV, revealing how shifting dynamics are reshaping media negotiations. Discover Gavin Newsom's rising political star power as he captures the attention of Democratic voters and positions himself for 2028. Conversations also explore the changing landscape of swing voters and the essential role of emotional engagement in modern politics. With a unique take on Trump's influence and the impact of diverse media platforms, this discussion is both timely and engaging.

Jon Kelly and Peter Hamby delve into Generation Alpha's surprising love for movie theaters, reflecting a revival in communal viewing experiences. They explore the evolving landscape of college sports, highlighting changes driven by financial strategies and new coaching dynamics. The hosts discuss the impact of streaming services on traditional film consumption, focusing on Netflix's innovative release tactics. The conversation touches on the nostalgic appeal of cinema in a franchise-dominated market and the shifting perceptions of what it means to be a student-athlete today.

Unravel the intriguing tales of famous women like Lindsay Lohan and Judy Garland, often dismissed as 'crazy' by society. Explore how these labels have shaped their lives and public perceptions. The hosts delve into the historical context behind these judgments, blending humor with heartbreak. Each story offers a poignant reflection on the societal tendency to label and dismiss women, prompting listeners to reconsider what lies beneath the surface of these charged words.

Andy Lack, former chairman of NBC News and MSNBC, discusses the turbulent landscape of television news. He delves into the challenges posed by corporate changes and the impact of local journalism's struggles. Lack shares insights on fostering sustainable news outlets in the Deep South and highlights the critical role of investigative journalism in communities. The conversation also touches on the shift from traditional media to streaming, raising questions about quality and trust in news during polarized times.

John Heilemann, an influential journalist and host of InPolitik, joins to dissect how Democrats in blue states are tackling Trump’s false claims about crime and the National Guard. They analyze shifting narratives in American politics, focusing on high-profile governors like Gavin Newsom and J.B. Pritzker as they navigate the turbulent political landscape ahead of 2028. Heilemann emphasizes the balance between aggressive tactics and maintaining dignity while addressing the diverse concerns of urban voters.

John Ourand, a sports media expert from Puck and host of The Varsity podcast, joins to explore the college football scene as the season kicks off. They discuss the buzz around Lee Corso's final appearance on College GameDay and how the evolving attention economy is reshaping sports coverage. The conversation touches on the controversial hiring of Dave Portnoy by Fox and the professionalization of college athletics, including Bill Belichick's surprising move to UNC. Expect insights into fan engagement and the rising popularity of North Carolina football.

Eriq Gardner, a writer for What I'm Hearing, joins Leigh Ann Caldwell to navigate a bizarre yet intriguing future where Trump seeks a cut of individual copyrights to assert influence over Hollywood. They discuss how this could actually support the argument for A.I.-created works and the potential implications for copyright laws. The conversation also explores government interventions in the entertainment industry, the balance of economic policies, and the evolving tensions between individual rights and government control in copyright matters.

Julia Ioffe, a journalist at Puck and expert on Trump, Putin, and Zelensky, joins Leigh Ann Caldwell to discuss Trump's diplomatic efforts—or lack thereof—with key world leaders. They analyze how Trump's inability to secure agreements could embolden Russia and complicate U.S.-European ties. The conversation highlights the peculiar role of Trump's envoy, Steve Witkoff, who recently received a medal from Putin. They also touch on the shifting geopolitical landscape, especially involving China and India, amidst the ongoing Ukraine conflict.

Step into the world of media rebranding as two hosts dissect MSNBC's controversial transition to 'MSNOW' amid mixed reactions. They humorously critique the network's evolving identity and explore the strategic challenges faced by traditional media in a digital age. Meanwhile, ESPN's new Everything app promises to revolutionize sports consumption with its social media-like interface. Join the discussion on nostalgic baseball watching, modern fandom, and how changing viewer habits are reshaping the landscape of sports media.

Aurora James, a designer, writer, and founder of the 15% Pledge, discusses the dynamic interplay between fashion and politics. She highlights the impact of celebrity activism, especially Taylor Swift's role in influencing public awareness. The conversation takes a turn towards nostalgia, the creativity crisis in media, and the challenges American designers face with tariffs and fast fashion. James also shares her insights on the future of fashion amidst evolving technology and societal changes, promising a lively exploration of these pressing topics.