Mixed Signals from Semafor Media

Morris Katz and Rebecca Katz, powerhouses from the political ad agency Fight, share insights from Zohran Mamdani's unexpected Democratic primary win. They discuss the groundbreaking use of vertical videos, like the viral "Halalflation," that helped engage younger voters. The conversation dives into how authenticity and relatable content have reshaped political communication. They also highlight the shift from traditional campaigns to more spontaneous, emotionally-driven strategies, offering lessons for future political candidates navigating modern media.

Steve Inskeep, the recognizable host of NPR's Morning Edition, shares his insights from years of international reporting. He discusses NPR's challenges under the Trump administration and the vital role of local journalism in today's crowded media landscape. Inskeep reflects on the complexity of covering Iran, drawing from his six visits there, while pondering if Americans are less informed about global politics now. He emphasizes the charm of traditional journalism, advocating for a deeper understanding of the world through curious storytelling.

Meredith Kopit Levien, CEO of The New York Times, shares insights on steering the iconic brand through today's media challenges. She discusses the delicate balance of maintaining journalistic integrity amid commercial demands and the role of technology, particularly AI. The conversation touches on significant acquisitions like Wordle and The Athletic, highlighting their impact on audience interaction. Levien also delves into strategies for engaging younger readers and the lucrative potential of sports content, shaping the future of The Times.

Cleo Abram, a YouTube host and tech journalist known for her optimistic show 'Huge If True,' shares her unique perspective on technology in a world often filled with skepticism. She discusses her journey from Vox to YouTube, where she's attracted nearly 6 million subscribers by making complex science accessible. Cleo recounts her wild experience of getting space-sick in zero gravity and explains how she engages with tech giants like Mark Zuckerberg. The conversation highlights the importance of optimism in tech journalism amid prevailing pessimism.

Brian Morrissey, creator of The Rebooting and former Digiday editor, joins Peter Kafka, Chief Correspondent at Business Insider, for a deep dive into the media landscape. They tackle the future of media bundles and the pervasive trend of subscription fatigue. Streaming services face a battle to retain viewers as nostalgia for cable wanes. The duo also critiques Substack's business model, pondering its viability as a platform. Insights on the loneliness of independent journalism versus institutional support round out their compelling conversation.

Gail Simmons, a longtime judge on Top Chef and former food journalist at Food & Wine, teams up with Tom Colicchio, chef and restaurateur, to discuss the show's profound impact on food media and culture. They reveal how Top Chef has influenced the restaurant industry and shifted perceptions of culinary standards over the years. The duo also shares their thoughts on the nicer tone of the show, critiques of social media food trends, and the evolving landscape of culinary competition television in today's content-driven world.

Adam Friedland, a comedian and host of The Adam Friedland Show, discusses his unique take on comedy influenced by a 1960s talk show format. He shares why he believes podcasts might be getting dumber and whether he's the 'Joe Rogan of the left.' The conversation dives into the impact of smartphones on social behavior, how Trump helped legitimize podcasting, and an amusing encounter with Swifties. Friedland's approach fosters open dialogue, pushing back against cancel culture and exploring the evolution of media in today's digital age.

Christiane Amanpour, a renowned CNN anchor and foreign correspondent, teams up with her ex-husband Jamie Rubin, a former senior State Department official, to dive into the media landscape's evolution. They discuss their unique journey into podcasting, the critical role of foreign correspondents in today's conflicts, and the challenges of battling misinformation. Christiane shares insights on the relevance of journalism, while Jamie reflects on his efforts against Russian propaganda. Together, they explore how their personal and professional histories intertwine in shaping global narratives.

Chris Black, co-host of the How Long Gone podcast and style consultant for brands like J. Crew, shares his journey from managing a pop-punk band to a fashion tastemaker. He discusses the surprising resurrection of media gatekeepers in 2025 and expresses his belief in traditional institutions despite the rise of influencers. Black also critiques Substack fatigue and how the podcasting landscape has evolved, emphasizing the importance of authentic connections over mere analytics in content creation.

Clay Travis, founder of OutKick and a conservative voice in sports media, dives into his journey from a ‘pudding strike’ to navigating sports and politics. He discusses the rising intertwine of gambling with sports culture, revealing how this impacts audience engagement. The conversation covers the NBA's declining ratings influenced by social justice movements and the challenges of maintaining relevance in today’s media landscape. Travis also shares insights on building a male audience and his direct interviews with Trump.