Squawk Pod

Danny Meyer, a renowned restaurateur and founder of Shake Shack, teams up with Rob Lynch, the company's CEO, to share their insights on leadership and growth. They discuss Meyer's philosophy of 'enlightened hospitality,' which prioritizes employees to enhance customer satisfaction. The duo reveals the transformation from a humble hot dog cart to a booming restaurant chain. They also delve into ambitious plans for 1,500 locations, the innovative hiring practices based on emotional skills, and the challenges faced during the pandemic.

In this engaging conversation, Ted Sarandos, Co-CEO of Netflix, shares his journey from video store clerk to leading one of the world's top streaming giants. Alongside Bela Bajaria, Chief Content Officer, they discuss daring decisions like investing in original content and the importance of local stories. They highlight the significance of trusting teams, empowering creators, and the role of data in maintaining creativity. Surprising success stories like Squid Game demonstrate the power of risk-taking in content creation.

Senator Elizabeth Warren, a U.S. Senator focused on consumer financial reform, discusses President Trump's surprising proposal to cap credit card interest rates at 10%. She highlights rising consumer costs and advocates for legislative changes to improve affordability. Also, Arthur Brooks, Harvard professor and columnist on happiness, shares insights on New Year’s resolutions. He emphasizes the importance of meaningful work, social connections, and setting boundaries with technology to enhance wellbeing and fight against social media-induced envy.

Saks Global is filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy while appointing a new CEO and securing $1.75 billion in financing. Coca-Cola is halting its plans to sell Costa Coffee after disappointing offers. Tesla is shifting to a subscription model for its 'full self-driving' feature, and Japanese stocks are soaring to record highs. Meanwhile, AI chip company Cerebras Systems is aiming to raise $1 billion at a whopping $22 billion valuation. The financial landscape is dynamic and full of surprises!

Warren Buffett, legendary investor and CEO of Berkshire Hathaway, reflects on his life lessons, the evolution of his business philosophy, and the importance of finding work you love. Joined by his children, Susie, Howie, and Peter, they discuss their roles in philanthropy and the responsibility of managing their father’s vast fortune. Warren shares insights on AI, corporate governance, and the value of kindness. The family emphasizes their collaborative upbringing and commitment to impactful giving, highlighting the lessons learned from their mother, Susan.

Eamon Javers, a CNBC reporter, and Kevin McCarthy, the former Speaker of the U.S. House, delve into the contentious DOE investigation of Federal Reserve Chair Jay Powell. They explore the surprising Republican dissent and its impact on market confidence. Javers breaks down the complexities of the inquiry while McCarthy argues that the probe undermines the president’s economic messaging. The discussion also touches on Trump’s influence within the GOP and whether accountability can exist without a criminal inquiry—a thought-provoking examination of politics and power.

Kevin Hassett, former economic adviser to President Trump, discusses the Federal Reserve's independence and its approach to inflation. He highlights the need for introspection within the Fed and credits Trump’s policies for economic growth. U.S. Senator Mark Warner provides insights on the ongoing investigation into Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell, warning against political interference in monetary policy. He also touches on immigration enforcement and critiques arbitrary caps on credit card interest rates. Together, they explore critical economic policies and their implications.

The White House is poised to indict Fed Chair Jay Powell over his comments regarding a renovation project. Allegiant Air is making waves with a $1.1 billion acquisition of Sun Country Airlines. A Senate investigation reveals that UnitedHealth has been employing aggressive tactics in Medicare Advantage. Exciting news as Walmart teams up with Google for AI-assisted shopping experiences. Lastly, the FCC has cleared SpaceX to launch 7,500 additional Starlink satellites, expanding their ambitious satellite network.

Matt Mahan, the Mayor of San Jose and a vocal critic of California's proposed wealth tax, shares his insights on the potential dangers of capital flight and the impact on innovation. He discusses the growing concerns of billionaires leaving the state and stresses the need for pragmatic solutions before imposing new taxes. Additionally, Mahan highlights the necessity of addressing government waste and closing loopholes. The conversation sheds light on the intricacies of local economic policy amidst a national debate.

Today’s market highlights include Merck’s ambitious plan to acquire cancer drugmaker Revolution Medicines for up to $32 billion. Saks is reportedly on the brink of securing over $1 billion in bankruptcy financing. Meanwhile, fitness tracking app Strava is set to confidentially file for an IPO. In entertainment, Paramount Skydance is looking to partner strategically with MTV. Lastly, NASA is bringing a crew home early from the ISS due to a serious medical condition onboard.