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Our Global Chief Economist Seth Carpenter joins our chief regional economists to discuss the outlook for interest rates in the U.S., Japan and Europe.Read more insights from Morgan Stanley.----- Transcript -----Seth Carpenter: Welcome to Thoughts on the Market. I'm Seth Carpenter, Morgan Stanley's Global Chief Economist and Head of Macro Research. And today we're kicking off our quarterly economic roundtable for the year. We're going to try to think about everything that matters in economics around the world. And today we're going to focus a little bit more on central banking. And when we get to tomorrow, we'll focus on the nuts and bolts of the real side of the economy. I'm joined by our chief regional economists. Michael Gapen: Hi, Seth. I'm Mike Gapen, Chief U.S. Economist at Morgan Stanley. Chetan Ahya: I'm Chetan Ahya, Chief Asia economist. Jens Eisenschmidt: And I'm Jens Eisenschmidt, Chief Europe economist. Seth Carpenter: It's Thursday, January 22nd at 10 am in New York. Jens Eisenschmidt: And 4 pm in Frankfurt. Chetan Ahya: And 9 pm in Hong Kong. Seth Carpenter: So, Mike Gapen, let me start with you as we head into 2026, what are we thinking about? Are we going into a more stable expansion? Is this just a different phase with the same amount of volatility? What do you think is going to be happening in the U.S. as a baseline outlook? And then if we're going to be wrong, which direction would we be wrong? Michael Gapen: Yeah, Seth, we took the view that we would have more policy certainty. Recent weeks have maybe suggested we're incorrect on that front. But I still believe that when it comes to deregulation, immigration policy and fiscal policy, we have much more clarity there than we did a year ago. So, I think it's another year of modest growth, above trend growth. We're forecasting something around 2.4 percent for 2026. That's about where we finished 2025. I think what's key for markets and the outlook overall will be whether inflation comes down. Firms are still passing through tariffs to the consumer. We think that'll happen at least through the end of the first quarter. It's our view that after that, inflation pressures will start to diminish. If that's the case, then we think the Fed can execute one or two more rate cuts. But we have those coming [in] the second half of the year. So, it looks like growth is strong enough. The labor market has stabilized enough for the Fed to wait and see, to look around, see the effects of their prior rate cuts, and then push policy closer to neutral if inflation comes down. Seth Carpenter: And if we go back to last year to 2025, I will give you the credit first. Morgan Stanley did not shift its forecast for recession in the U.S. the way some of our main competitors did. On the other hand, and this is where I maybe tweak you just a little bit. We underestimated how much growth there would be in the United States. CapEx spending from AI firms was strong. Consumer spending, especially from the top half of the income distribution in the U.S. was strong. Growth overall for the year was over 2 percent, close to 2.5 percent. So, if that's what we just came off of, why isn't it the case that we'd see even stronger growth? Maybe even a re-acceleration of growth in 2026? Michael Gapen: Well, some of that, say, improvement vis-à-vis our forecast, the outperformance. Some of that I think comes mechanically from trade and inventory variability. So, . I'm not sure that that says a lot about an improving trend rate of growth. Where there was other outperformance was, as you noted, from the consumer. Now our models, and I don't mean to get too technical here, but our model suggests that consumption is overshooting its fundamentals. Which I think makes it harder for the economy to accelerate further. And then AI; it's harder for AI spending to say get incrementally stronger than where it is. So, we're getting a little extra boost from fiscal. We've got that coming through. And I just think what it is, is more of the same rather than further acceleration from here. Seth Carpenter: Do you think there's a chance that the Fed in fact does not cut rates like you have in your forecast? Michael Gapen: Yes, I do think... Where we could be wrong is we've made assumptions around the One Big Beautiful Bill and what it will contribute to the economy. But as you know, there's a lot of variability around those estimates. If the bill is more catalytic to animal spirits and business spending than we've assumed, you could get, say, a demand driven animal spirits upside to the economy, which may mean inflation doesn't decelerate all that much. But I do think that that's, say, the main upside risk that we're considering. Markets have been gradually taking out probabilities of Fed cuts as growth has come in stronger. So far, the inflation data has been positive in terms of signaling about disinflation, but I would say the jury's still out on how much that continues. Seth Carpenter: Chetan, When I think about Japan, we know that it's been the developed market central bank that's been going in the opposite direction. They've been hiking when other central banks have been cutting. We got some news recently that probably put some risk into our baseline outlook that we published in our year ahead view about both growth and inflation in Japan. And with it what the Bank of Japan is going to do in terms of its normalization. Can you just walk us through a little bit about our outlook for Japan? Because right now I think that the yen, Japanese rates, they're all part of the ongoing market narrative around the world. Chetan Ahya: Yeah, Seth. So, look, I mean, on a big picture basis, we are constructive on the Japan macro-outlook. We think normal GDP growth remains strong. We are expecting to see the transition for the consumers from them seeing, you know, supply side inflation. Keeping their real wage growth low to a dynamic where we transition to real wage growth accelerating. That supports real consumption growth, and we move away from that supply side driven inflation to demand side driven inflation. So broadly we are constructive, but I think in the backdrop, what we are seeing on currency depreciation is making things a bit more challenging for the BOJ. While we are expecting that demand side pressure to build up and drive inflation, in the trailing data, it is still pretty much currency depreciation and supply side factors like food inflation driving inflation. And so, BOJ has been hesitant. So, while we had the expectation that BOJ will hike in January of 2027, we do see the risk that they may have to take up rate hike earlier to manage the currency not getting out of hand and adding on to the inflation pressures. Seth Carpenter Would I be right in saying that up until now, the yen has swung pretty widely in both directions. But the weakening of the yen until now hasn't been really the key driver of the Bank of Japan's policy reaction. It's been growth picking up, inflation picking up, wanting to get out of negative interest rates first, wanting to get away from the zero lower bounds. Second, the weaker yen in some sense could have actually been seen as a positive up until now because Japan did go through 25 years of essentially stagnant nominal growth. Is this actually that much of a fundamental change in the Bank of Japan's thinking – needing to react to the weakness of the yen? Chetan Ahya: Broadly what you're saying is right, Seth, but there is also a threshold of where the currency can be. And beyond a point, it begins to hurt the households in form of imported inflation pressures. And remember that inflation has been somewhat high, even if it is driven by currency depreciation and supply side factors for some time. And so, BOJ has to be watchful of potential lift in inflation expectations for the households. And at the same time, they are also watching the underlying inflation impact of this currency depreciation – because what we have seen is that over period workers have been demanding for higher wages. And that is also influenced by what happens to headline inflation, which is driven by currency depreciation. So, I would say that, yes, it's been true up until now. But, when currency reaches these very high levels of range, you are going to see BOJ having to act. Seth Carpenter: Jens, let's shift then to Europe. The ECB had been on a cutting cycle. They came to the end of that. President Lagarde said that she thought the disinflationary process had ended. In your year ahead forecast and a bunch of your writing recently, you've said maybe not so fast. There could still be some more disinflationary, at least risk, in the pipeline for Europe. Can you talk a little bit about what's going on in terms of European inflation and what it could mean for the European Central Bank? Because clearly that's going to be first order important for markets.Jens Eisenschmidt: I think that is right. I think we have a crucial inflation print ahead of us that comes out on the 4th of February. So, early February we get some signal, whether our anticipated fall of headline inflation here below the ECB's target is actually materializing. We think the chances for this are pretty good. There's a mix why this is happening. One is energy. Energy disinflation and base effects. But the other thing is services inflation resets always at the beginning of the year. January and February are the crucial month here. We had significant services upward pressure on prices the last years. And so just from base effects, we think we will see less of that. Another picture or another element of that picture is that wage disinflation is proceeding nicely. We have notably a significant weakness in the export-oriented manufacturing sector in Germany, which is a key sector of setting wages for the country. The country is around 30 percent of the euro area GDP. And here we had seen significant wage gains over the last year. So, the disinflationary trend coming from lower wage gains from this country, that will be very important. And an important signal to watch. Again, that's something we don't know. I think soon we have to watch simply monthly prints here. But a significant print for the first quarter comes out in May, and all of that together makes us believe that the ECB will be in a position to see enough data or have seen enough data that confirms the thesis of inflation staying below target for some time to come. So that they can cut in June and September to a terminal rate of 1.5 percent. Seth Carpenter: That is, I would say, out of consensus relative where the market is. When you talk to investors, whether they're in Europe or around the world, what's the big pushback that you get from them when you are explaining your view on how the ECB is going to act? Jens Eisenschmidt: There are two essential pushbacks. So, one is on substance. So, 'No, actually wages will not come down, and the economy will actually start overheating soon because of the big fiscal stimulus.' That, in a nutshell is the pushback on substance. I would say here, as you would say before, not so fast. Because the fiscal stimulus is only in one country. It's 30 percent. But only 30 percent of the euro area.Plus, there is another pushback, which is on the reaction function of the ECB. Here we tend to agree. So far, we have heard from policy makers that they feel rather comfortable with the 2 percent rate level that they're at. But we think that discussion will change. The moment you are below target in an actual inflation print; the burden of proof is the opposite. Now you have to prove: Is the economy really on a track that inflation will get back up to target without further monetary stimulus? We believe that will be the key debate. And again, happy to, sort of, concede that there is for now not a lot of signaling out of the ECB that further rate cuts are coming. But we believe the first inflation print of the year will change that debate significantly. Seth Carpenter: Alright, so that makes a lot of sense. However, looking at the clock, we are probably out of time for today. So, for now, Michael, Chetan, Jens, thank you so much for joining today. And to the listener, thanks for listening. And be sure to tune in tomorrow for part two of our conversation. And I have to say, if you enjoy this show, please leave us a review wherever you listen and share Thoughts on the Market with a friend or a colleague today.

In this episode of Talk Fantasy To Me, Kyle dives into the latest developments in the entertainment industry, focusing on Netflix's acquisition of Warner Bros. and the implications for Hollywood. The discussion covers the potential impact on consumer choice, the future of theatrical releases, and the role of AI in content creation. Kyle also explores Paramount's counter-offer and the broader industry dynamics at play.   Takeaways Netflix's acquisition of Warner Bros. could reshape Hollywood. Paramount's counter-offer adds complexity to the deal. AI's role in content creation is expanding. The future of theatrical releases is uncertain. Consumer choice may be impacted by media consolidation. The entertainment industry is at a crossroads. Regulatory scrutiny is expected for the Netflix deal. Paramount's all-cash offer is seen as superior by some. The merger could lead to significant industry changes. Hollywood's traditional model is being challenged.   Sound bites "Netflix's acquisition could reshape Hollywood." "Paramount's offer adds complexity." "AI is changing content creation." "The future of theaters is uncertain." "Consumer choice is at risk." "Hollywood is at a crossroads." "Regulatory scrutiny is expected." "Paramount's offer is seen as superior." "The merger could change the industry." "Hollywood's model is challenged."   Chapters 00:00:00 Introduction to the Episode 00:03:00 Netflix's Acquisition of Warner Bros. 00:09:00 Paramount's Counter-Offer 00:15:00 AI's Role in Content Creation 00:21:00 Impact on Theatrical Releases 00:27:00 Consumer Choice and Media Consolidation 00:33:00 Regulatory Scrutiny and Industry Changes 00:39:00 Conclusion and Future Outlook    

Sam Levine, commissioner of the Department of Consumer and Worker Protection (DCWP) talks about his priorities in his new role, including the mayor's executive orders related to plans for "rental rip-off" hearings, banning junk fees and regulating delivery apps, which he says are depriving workers of tips.

After World War II, the U.S. government worked with industry to create a single-use, disposable consumer culture as a way to ensure ongoing market prosperity.  Who benefited? Consumer product companies like Coca-Cola, and the fossil fuel industry, whose petrochemicals are at the source. The result? Plastic pollution is now found in virtually every living organism – including humans – and is one of the worst threats to ocean ecosystems. Now, a global resistance movement is rising to abolish petrochemical plastics and to shift to a zero-waste, circular economy. Anna Cummins, Deputy Director and Co-Founder of the Five Gyres Institute. With more than 20 years experience in environmental non-profit work—including marine conservation, coastal watershed management, community relations, and bilingual and sustainability education—Anna is an expert in the field. Credits Executive Producer: Kenny Ausubel Written by: Monica Lopez and Kenny Ausubel Senior Producer and Station Relations: Stephanie Welch Host and Consulting Producer: Neil Harvey Producer: Teo Grossman Program Engineer and Music Supervisor: Emily Harris Production Assistance: Claire Reynolds This is an episode of the Bioneers: Revolution from the Heart of Nature series. Visit the ⁠radio and podcast homepage⁠ to learn more.

The a16z AI Apps team outlines how they are thinking about the AI application cycle and why they believe it represents the largest and fastest product shift in software to date. The conversation places AI in the context of prior platform waves, from PCs to cloud to mobile, and examines where adoption is already translating into real enterprise usage and revenue. They walk through three core investment themes: existing software categories becoming AI-native, new categories where software directly replaces labor, and applications built around proprietary data and closed-loop workflows. Using portfolio examples, the discussion shows how these models play out in practice and why defensibility, workflow ownership, and data moats matter more than novelty as AI applications scale. Resources:Follow  Alex Rampell on X: https://twitter.com/arampellFollow Jen Kha on X: https://twitter.com/jkhamehlFollow David Haber on X: https://twitter.com/dhaberFollow Anish Acharya on X: https://twitter.com/illscience Stay Updated:If you enjoyed this episode, be sure to like, subscribe, and share with your friends!Find a16z on X: https://twitter.com/a16zFind a16z on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/a16zListen to the a16z Podcast on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/5bC65RDvs3oxnLyqqvkUYXListen to the a16z Podcast on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a16z-podcast/id842818711Not an offer or solicitation. None of the information herein should be taken as investment advice; Some of the companies mentioned are portfolio companies of a16z. Please see https://a16z.com/disclosures/ for more information.  A list of investments made by a16z is available at https://a16z.com/portfolio. Stay Updated:Find a16z on XFind a16z on LinkedInListen to the a16z Show on SpotifyListen to the a16z Show on Apple PodcastsFollow our host: https://twitter.com/eriktorenberg Please note that the content here is for informational purposes only; should NOT be taken as legal, business, tax, or investment advice or be used to evaluate any investment or security; and is not directed at any investors or potential investors in any a16z fund. a16z and its affiliates may maintain investments in the companies discussed. For more details please see a16z.com/disclosures. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

In this special episode of Nichel Anderson Short Stories And Beyond, host Nichel Anderson takes listeners behind the scenes with her Director's Clip Notes, offering an exclusive look into the creative journey behind her acclaimed MOLIAE short stories. Nichel shares the inspiration, writing process, and emotional depth that shaped each episode, revealing how the characters and storylines connect to her book, “Mitsrayim: Memoir of A Past Life In Ancient Egypt.” As MOLIAE (Moments Of Love In Ancient Egypt) evolves into a theatrical production, Nichel discusses how these stories serve as the foundation for her vision to bring her book, of the world of ancient Egypt to life on film. She provides key insights into the themes, lessons, and character arcs that tie back to Season 1, Episode 1 "Before The Time of Princess Aamina", giving listeners a deeper understanding of the creative universe she continues to build. Explore the featured episodes: Episode #66: Rulen Responds to the Position of King Mahlon's Speech and an Orion Sets a New Path https://nichelandersonshortstoriesandbeyond.podbean.com/e/moliae-short-stories-rulen-responds-to-the-position-of-king-mahlon-s-speech-and-an-orion-sets-a-new-path/ Episode #65: King Mahlon Speaks of Disloyalty and an Orion Is Born https://nichelandersonshortstoriesandbeyond.podbean.com/e/moliae-finale-show-season-6-epi-65-king-mahlon-speaks-of-disloyalty-and-an-orion-is-born/ Episode #64: Hanee Sends a Letter to King Mahlon https://nichelandersonshortstoriesandbeyond.podbean.com/e/moliae-hanee-sends-a-letter-to-king-mahlon-episode-64-season-6-2022-2023/ Bonus Review: Any Day Can Be a Supreme Day (Season 1, Episode 24) https://nichelandersonshortstoriesandbeyond.podbean.com/e/moliae-clip-snippet-any-day-can-be-a-supreme-day-episode-24-season-1-2017-2018/ Nichel also shares exciting updates on the relaunch of her PMTR (Pyramid Mystery Temple Reunion) NFTs on February 23, 2026—a date honoring Dr. W.E.B. Du Bois' birthday. Support the M-Film Dream and explore the expanding MOLIAE universe: Shop MOLIAE merch and Nichel's first music album at MOLIAE.com/shop Discover the extended beauty line at MOLIAEBeauty.com Learn more about the NFT collection at MOLIAEWorld.com Mint your NFT at MINT.MOLIAEWORLD.COM Support the DTC (Direct-to-Consumer) movement and be part of the creative legacy of MOLIAE—where storytelling, music, and purpose unite. In this special episode of Nichel Anderson Short Stories And Beyond, host Nichel Anderson takes listeners behind the scenes with her Director's Clip Notes, offering an exclusive look into the creative journey behind her acclaimed MOLIAE short stories. Nichel shares the inspiration, writing process, and emotional depth that shaped each episode, revealing how the characters and storylines connect to her book, “Mitsrayim: Memoir of A Past Life In Ancient Egypt.”

With the American republic hanging in the balance, Ralph calls on Democrats to pressure Republicans in the House and Senate to impeach Trump before the midterms or suffer the consequences. Then, we welcome Dino Grandoni, co-author of a Washington Post report on the surprising ways various species of animals and plants help advance our own health and longevity.Dino Grandoni is a reporter who covers life sciences for the Washington Post. He was part of a reporting team that was a finalist for the 2025 Pulitzer Prize in National Reporting for coverage of Hurricane Helene. He previously covered the Environmental Protection Agency and wrote a daily tipsheet on energy and environmental policy. He is co-author (with Hailey Haymond and Katty Huertas) of the feature “50 Species That Save Us.”The Democrats—while there are people like constitutional law expert Jamie Raskin (who has said a shadow hearing to publicly educate the American people on impeachment “is a good idea”) he's been muzzled by Hakeem Jeffries and Charlie Schumer, who basically don't want the Democrats to use the word impeachment. So who's using the word impeachment the most? Donald Trump—not only wants to impeach judges who decide against him, but he's talking about the Democrats impeaching him, and he uses the word all the time. So we have an upside-down situation here where the opposition party is not in the opposition on the most critical factor, which is that we have the most impeachable President in American history, getting worse by the day.Ralph NaderIf the founding fathers came back to life today, would any of them oppose the impeachment, conviction, and removal of office of Donald J. Trump, who talks about being a monarch? That's what they fought King George over. Of course, they would all support it.Ralph NaderWhat we have in these cards and in our stories at the Washington Post here are examples of the ways we know, the ways that scientists have uncovered how plants and animals help us. But we don't know what we don't know. There are likely numerous other ways that plants and animals are protecting human well-being that we don't know and we may very well never know if some of these species go extinct.Dino GrandoniI'm always eager to find these connections between human well-being and the well-being of nature and try to describe them in ways that are compelling to readers that get them to care about protecting nature. And also finding those instances (because I want to be objective here) of when human well-being and the well-being of nature might be in conflict, and that might involve some tough decisions that we as a society or policymakers have to make.Dino GrandoniNews 1/16/25* Our top two stories this week concern corporate wrongdoing. First, Business Insider reports that the New York City Department of Consumer and Worker Protection has released a new report which estimates Uber Eats and DoorDash, by altering their tipping processes in the city – moving tipping prompts to less prominent locations after checkout so upfront delivery costs would appear lower – have deprived gig delivery workers of $550 million since December 2023. As this piece notes, that was the month that New York City's minimum pay law for delivery workers took effect. As a result, “The average tip for delivery workers on the apps dropped 75%...from $3.66 to $0.93, one week after the apps made the changes…The figure has since declined to $0.76 per delivery.” This report presages a new city law that “requires the apps to offer customers the option to tip before or during checkout. Both Uber and DoorDash have sued the City over the law, which is set to take effect on January 26.” Whether the administration will stick to their guns on this issue, in the face of corporate pressure, will be a major early test for Mayor Zohran Mamdani.* Meanwhile, the Wall Street Journal reports UnitedHealth Group “deployed aggressive tactics to collect payment-boosting diagnoses for its Medicare Advantage members.” As the Journal explains, “In Medicare Advantage, the federal government pays insurers a lump sum to oversee medical benefits for seniors and disabled people. The government pays extra for patients with certain costly medical conditions, a process called risk adjustment.” A new report from the Senate Judiciary Committee found that UnitedHealth had “turned risk adjustment into a business,” thereby exploiting Medicare Advantage and systematically and fraudulently overbilling the federal government. Due to its structure, advocates like Ralph Nader have long warned that Medicare Advantage is ripe for waste fraud and abuse, in addition to being an inferior program for seniors compared to traditional Medicare. This report supports the accuracy of these warnings. Yet, Dr. Mehmet Oz Trump's appointee to head the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services, is a longtime proselytizer for Medicare Advantage and this setback is unlikely to make him reverse course, no matter the cost to patients or taxpayers.* Yet, even as these instances of corporate criminal lawlessness pile up, the Trump administration is all but abolishing the police on the corporate crime beat. In a new report, Rick Claypool, corporate crime research director at Public Citizen, documents how the administration has “canceled or halted a total of 159 enforcement actions against 166 corporations.” This amounts to corporations avoiding payments totaling $3.1 billion in penalties for misconduct. This report further documents how these corporations have ingratiated themselves with Trump, via donations to his inauguration or ballroom project, or more typical revolving door or lobbying arrangements. As Claypool himself puts it, “The ‘law enforcement' claims the White House uses as a pretext for authoritarian anti-immigrant crackdowns, city occupations, and imperial resource seizures abroad lose all credibility when cast against the lawlessness Trump allows for the pursuit of corporate profits.”* In another instance of a Trump administration giveaway to corporations, the New York Times reports the Environmental Protection Agency will “Stop Considering Lives Saved When Setting Rules on Air Pollution.” Under the new regulatory regime, the EPA will “estimate only the costs to businesses of complying with the rules.” The Times explains that different administrations have balanced these competing interests differently, always faced with the morbid dilemma of how much, in a dollar amount, to value human life; but “until now, no administration has counted it as zero.”* Moving to Congress, the big news from the Legislative Branch this week has to do with Bill and Hillary Clinton. NPR reports Congressman James Comer, Chair of the House Oversight Committee, issued subpoenas to the former president and former Secretary of State to testify in a committee hearing related to convicted sex offender Jeffrey Epstein. In a letter published earlier this week, the Clintons formally rejected the subpoenas, calling them “legally invalid.” The Clintons' refusal to appear tees up an opportunity for Congress to exercise its contempt power and force the couple to testify. Democrats on the Oversight Committee, who agreed to issue the subpoenas as part of a larger list, have noted that “most of the other people have not been forced to testify,” indicating that this is a political stunt rather than an earnest effort. That said, there is little doubt that, at least, former President Clinton knows more about the Epstein affair than he has stated publicly thus far and there is a good chance Congress will vote through a contempt resolution and force him to testify.* In the Senate, Elizabeth Warren, Chris Murphy and other liberal Senators are “urging their Democratic colleagues to pivot to economic populism by ‘confronting' corporate power and billionaires, warning that just talking about affordability alone won't move swing voters who backed President Trump in 2024,” per the Hill. Senators Adam Schiff of California and Tina Smith of Minnesota also signed this memo. The Senators cited a recent poll that found Americans “increasingly cannot afford basic goods such as medical care and groceries,” but they also warned that “Bland policy proposals — without a narrative explaining who is getting screwed and who is doing the screwing – will not work.” Hopefully this forceful urging by fellow Senators will move the needle within the Democratic caucus in the upper house. Nothing else seems to have driven the point home.* One candidate who seems to understand this message is Graham Platner of Maine. Platner, who is endorsed by Bernie Sanders, has a controversial past that includes a career in the Marines and a stint working for the private military contractor Blackwater. However, he is running as a staunch economic populist and New Deal style progressive Democrat – and the message appears to be working. According to Zeteo, a poll conducted in mid-December found Platner up by 15 points in the primary over his opponent, current Governor Janet Mills. More concerning is the fact that this same poll shows both Platner and Mills in a dead heat with incumbent Republican Senator Susan Collins, indicating this could be a brutal, protracted and expensive campaign.* On the other end of the spectrum, Axios reported this week that former Congressman Sean Patrick Maloney, who once led the Democratic Congressional Campaign Committee and then served as President Biden's ambassador to the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Development, has accepted a role as CEO and president of the Coalition for Prediction Markets. The coalition is essentially a trade association for betting websites; members include Kalshi, Crypto.com Robinhood and Coinbase, among others. The coalition will leverage Maloney's influence with Democrats, along with former Republican Congressman Patrick McHenry's influence across the aisle, to lobby for favorable regulation for their industry.* Turning to foreign affairs, prosecutors in South Korea have announced that they are seeking the death penalty for former President Yoon Suk-Yeol on “charges of masterminding an insurrection over his brief imposition of martial law in December 2024,” per Reuters. In a stunning courtroom revelation, a prosecutor said during closing arguments that “investigators confirmed the existence of a scheme allegedly directed by Yoon and his former defence minister, Kim Yong-hyun, dating back to October 2023 designed to keep Yoon in power.” The prosecutor added that “The defendant has not sincerely regretted the crime... or apologised properly to the people.” As this piece notes, South Korea has not carried out a death sentence in nearly three decades. Even still, it is remarkable to see how this case has unfolded compared to the reaction of the American judicial system to Donald Trump's attempted self-coup on January 6th, 2021.* Finally, turning to Latin America, many expected the fall of Nicolás Maduro to mean a redoubled energy crisis for the long-embargoed island nation of Cuba. Yet, the Financial Times reports that in fact, “Mexico overtook Venezuela to become Cuba's top oil supplier in 2025…helping the island weather a sharp drop in Venezuelan crude shipments.” CBS adds that “Despite President Trump's social media pronouncement…that ‘there will be no more oil or money going to Cuba — zero,' the current U.S. policy is to allow Mexico to continue to provide oil to the island, according to Energy Secretary Chris Wright.” For the time being, the administration seems open to maintaining this status quo – including maintaining cordial relations with Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum – though this appears more strained than ever. Sheinbaum harshly criticized the kidnapping of Maduro, stating “unilateral action and invasion cannot be the basis for international relations in the 21st century,” while Republican Congressman Carlos Gimenez has threatened that there could be “serious consequences for trade between our countries” if Sheinbaum “continues to undermine US policy by sending oil to the murderous dictatorship in Cuba.”This has been Francesco DeSantis, with In Case You Haven't Heard. Get full access to Ralph Nader Radio Hour at www.ralphnaderradiohour.com/subscribe

Chris Whalen, chairman of Whalen Global Advisors and author of The Institutional Risk Analyst blog, joins The Julia La Roche Show for "The Wrap with Chris Whalen." In this episode of The Wrap, Whalen breaks down why GSE release is officially off the table after Trump ordered them to buy back their own debt—a move Whalen calls "politics" driven by midterm election fears. He shares his take on crypto as "a polite form of gambling," explains why he prefers gold over silver despite silver's recent run, and dives deep into the housing market's affordability crisis. Whalen reveals his biggest concern for 2026: the hidden risks in private equity and credit, calling them "rancid pools of illiquid, opaque assets" that could cause major bank losses. He also weighs in on the DOJ's subpoena of Fed Chair Jerome Powell, predicting Kevin Warsh will likely be the next Fed chair, and closes with his outlook on markets, the dollar, and bank stocks.Links:    The Institutional Risk Analyst: https://www.theinstitutionalriskanalyst.com/  Inflated book (2nd edition): https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/inflated-r-christopher-whalen/1146303673Twitter/X: https://twitter.com/rcwhalen    Website: https://www.rcwhalen.com/   Timestamps:0:00 Welcome back to the Wrap with Chris Whalen0:30 GSE release officially off the table?2:32 The $200 billion announcement is politics 4:08 Political landscape and midterm elections 4:49 Crypto legislation falls apart 5:14 Crypto as speculation vs. gold & silver 6:40 Silver's short squeeze and volatility 8:30 Gold vs. silver as long-term trades 9:07 Copper and Dr. Copper as economic indicator 10:10 Housing policy and affordability crisis 12:10 Will the Fed allow home prices to fall? 14:30 Bank earnings season takeaways 16:50 Consumer delinquencies and economic warning signs 18:12 The hidden risk in private equity and credit 19:48 The "POOP" problem in private lending 21:42 Private credit as a ticking time bomb 22:58 Jerome Powell's DOJ subpoena 24:21 Kevin Warsh and the future of the Fed 27:05 Could the Fed resume MBS purchases? 28:56 Viewer question: NLY/Annaly REIT 30:52 Parting thoughts and 2026 outlook 31:46 Closing

Chris Markowski delves into the deceptive practices of Wall Street, particularly focusing on hedge funds and private equity firms. He highlights how hedge funds often report inflated returns by excluding failed funds from their calculations, likening it to a baseball player omitting their worst games to boost their batting average. Markowski also critiques the private equity model, which he argues exploits companies by loading them with debt and extracting value, often leading to their decline. He shares a poignant example of how private equity negatively impacted the once-popular Sprinkles Cupcake brand, illustrating the broader consequences of these financial practices on American businesses and consumers. Markowski further discusses the implications of recent mergers and acquisitions, using Saks Fifth Avenue's bankruptcy as a case study to demonstrate how Wall Street's financialization leads to disastrous outcomes for companies. He emphasizes the disconnect between Wall Street's profit motives and the realities faced by everyday investors, warning listeners about the potential pitfalls of trusting financial advisors who may prioritize their own interests over those of their clients. The episode serves as a wake-up call for listeners to be vigilant about the financial narratives pushed by major institutions and to seek transparency in their investments.

Economic Realities: Chinese Struggles and U.S. Consumer Strength. Guest: CHRIS RIEGEL, CEO of Stratacache. China's economy is struggling, evidenced by declining imports of raw materials and factory workers facing destitution. In contrast, the U.S. economy remains strong, with banner retail sales during the Christmas season. However, the "K-shaped" economy shows consumer fatigue in the quick-service restaurant sector.1965 SHANGHAI

 In today's episode of Next Level University, hosts Kevin Palmieri and Alan Lazaros break down the mindset that determines whether progress compounds or quietly stalls. This episode centers on the difference between consumer thinking and investor thinking and how that distinction affects time, money, and long-term outcomes. The focus is discipline over impulse, standards over comfort, and decisions that pay off over years, not moments. If you care about consistency, leverage, and building a future that lasts, this conversation will sharpen how you evaluate everyday choices. Listen with honesty. The mindset you practice today becomes the life you live tomorrow._______________________Learn more about:Your first 30-minute “Business Breakthrough Session” call with Alan is FREE. This call is designed to help you identify bottlenecks and build a clear plan for your next level. - https://calendly.com/alanlazaros/30-minute-breakthrough-sessionReady to level up your podcast? Your first 30-minute “Podcast Breakthrough Session” call with Kevin is FREE. Real podcast growth, built through follow-through. - https://calendly.com/kevinpalmieri/free-30-minute-podcast-breakthrough-session-with-kevinJoin our private Facebook community, “Next Level Nation,” to grow alongside people who are committed to improvement. - https://www.facebook.com/groups/459320958216700_______________________NLU is not just a podcast; it's a gateway to a wealth of resources designed to help you achieve your goals and dreams. From our Next Level Dreamliner to our Group Coaching, we offer a variety of tools and communities to support your personal development journey.For more information, check out our website and socials using the links below.

Peter Boockvar, Chief Investment Officer at One Point BFG Wealth Partners and author of The Boock Report, sees "bells ringing" on the AI tech trade with Oracle, CoreWeave, and Nvidia showing tiredness, and warns the question is whether the baton can be passed to other sectors without the market falling apart. His three favorite groups for 2026 are energy (where $60 oil is "one of the cheapest assets in the world" and he sees $70+ minimum), agriculture (fertilizer stocks like Mosaic and Nutrient), and beaten-down consumer staples offering "bond-like dividend yields with equity-like upside." On Venezuela, he disagrees with the oil-for-midterms thesis - it's really about stiff-arming China, Russia, and Iran, and won't impact oil supply for 5-10 years anyway. He's been trimming silver after its vertical move toward $100 but still likes gold driven by central bank buying and dollar diversification. His biggest concern: if we lose the AI trade, its dominance is so large it could take everything down with it.This episode is brought to you by VanEck. Learn more about the VanEck Rare Earth and Strategic Metals ETF: http://vaneck.com/REMXJuliaLinks: Substack/The Boock Report: https://boockreport.com/Twitter/X: https://x.com/pboockvarTimestamps:00:00 Intro and welcome Peter Boockvar01:18 2025 retro: World markets did really well, fire lit under international markets03:15 Bells ringing on AI tech trade - Oracle, CoreWeave, Nvidia tiredness05:45 China competition in AI - models more applicable, monetizing faster06:30 Bifurcated economy: Manufacturing recession, lower-middle income spending weak07:45 Data center build out - question of when not if it slows08:30 Delta earnings: Premium cabin strong, main cabin no growth09:15 Europe bifurcated too: Germany/France struggling, Spain/Greece doing well11:36 Three favorite groups for 2026: Energy, ag, consumer staples12:15 Energy: Bearish sentiment extreme, contrarian setup, CFTC net longs at 15-year lows13:30 Venezuela: 5-10 years before notable production increase14:15 OPEC production lagging quotas - most running at full capacity15:00 US shale production slowing, rolling over even in Permian15:45 Peak oil demand pushed out - hybrids winning, EV demand delayed16:30 Ag: Fertilizer stocks - Mosaic, Nutrient - down and out value plays17:15 Consumer staples destroyed over 12 months - deep value now17:52 Names: Kimberly Clark, Nestle, Pepsi, ConAgra, Coke, Reynolds18:24 Oil at $60 is one of the cheapest assets in the world - sees $70 minimum19:15 Energy holdings: Exxon, BP, Shell, Canadian Natural Resources, Oxy, Noble, EQT23:44 Venezuela won't impact oil supply for 5-10 years - focused on near-term25:32 Inflation: Conflicting dynamics - services decelerating, goods inflation returning27:00 Next Fed chair will have inflation dilemma - sticky around 3%28:45 Services inflation could rebound in back half of 2026 as apartment supply absorbed29:01 Reaction to Powell subpoena30:09 Powell is done cutting - will be playing 18 holes in June31:28 Last Fed cut was not necessary - took neutral rate below 1%32:30 Need low and stable prices first, then labor market improves35:34 Gold north of $4,600 - levels don't surprise, maybe pace did36:27 Silver at $92 - trimming position, tree needs to take a breather37:30 Gold thesis: Central bank buying, dollar diversification has more legs38:49 2025 lesson: World woke up to opportunities outside mag seven40:22 What not to own: Mag seven, long duration bonds40:46 Japan matters for global rates - JGB yields rising, canary in coal mine42:00 Bullish emerging market local currency bonds - better finances, cheap currencies42:57 EM names: China, Malaysia, Singapore, Mexico, Brazil, Chile, Indonesia43:45 Biggest risk: Losing AI trade and gap up in long-term rates44:24 Optimism: Broadening out continues, international markets, commodity trade has legs45:03 Parting thoughts: Investors need to be flexible in their thinking

Ben Emons turns to the Fed and how it gauges consumer pressure. On the upside, the U.S. economy growing through higher-than-expected GDP signals resiliency in the states. On the downside for traders, it could mean a pause on interest rate cuts. Ben explains the path ahead he sees for the FOMC. ======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day. Subscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/ About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

Send us a textJoin hosts Alex Sarlin and Ben Kornell as they kick off 2026 with a wide-ranging Week in EdTech conversation covering tech backlash, AI in education, market consolidation, consumer learning tools, and major voices shaping the future of teaching and learning.✨ Episode Highlights:[00:00:00] Growing tech backlash around screen time, phone bans, and distrust of edtech.[00:03:55] PowerSchool layoffs reflect private equity pressure and profitability focus.[00:06:30] Layoffs highlight the human cost for educators working in edtech.[00:09:04] Screen time skepticism reaches adult learning and professional assessments.[00:10:52] Big Tech ramps up AI competition as Meta, Amazon, and Apple reposition.[00:12:42] Consumer AI learning startups draw VC attention amid edtech valuation gaps.[00:13:58] Funding: Obo raises $16M Series A for AI-generated, multimodal courses.[00:17:16] UX, speed, and multimodality emerge as key edtech differentiators.[00:19:10] Speechify secures NYC schools deal, blending accessibility with consumer-grade UX.[00:21:08] Engagement-first consumer learning apps challenge traditional edtech models.Plus, special guests:[00:23:48] Eli Luberoff, Founder of Desmos Studio, on creative math tools and Desmos Professional.[00:50:28] Rebecca Winthrop, Senior Fellow and Director, Center for Universal Education at The Brookings Institution, on how AI risks currently outweigh benefits for students without better guardrails.

It's that time of year when we polish off the crystal ball and try to guess exactly where the bourbon industry is headed in 2026. The panel dives into some high-stakes predictions on the rise of exclusive distillery clubs and the portential rise of the craft sector by leaning into Direct-to-Consumer sales. We also get into some scarier territory—think tariffs and the possibility of major distilleries actually pausing production—while others weighs in on the acquisition frenzy that's continuing to reshape the landscape. We also tackle the death of FOMO on limited releases, the push for even higher-proof offerings, and the wild possibility of NIL deals between universities and distilleries. Will your favorite college quarterback have a signature bottle pick soon? We're breaking it all down to see how economic and political factors will keep the bourbon scene shaking in the year ahead. Show Notes: Bourbon Pursuit explores 2026 predictions for the bourbon industry Insights on the future of distillery clubs and exclusive consumer offers Discussion on tariff impacts and potential production pauses The rising prominence of craft distilleries and direct sales strategies Evolution of FOMO among bourbon consumers Speculation on NIL partnerships within the bourbon sector Insights into how GLP-1 medications might affect drinking habits Reflections on past predictions and the industry's direction Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The FTC has begun issuing warning letters to companies that may be violating the new Consumer Review Rule, signaling the agency's intent to enforce the sweeping prohibition on practices that mislead consumers about the ability to leave honest reviews (such as gag clauses, pay-for-delete offers, and review manipulation). These warnings underscore that enforcement is not hypothetical — companies should be actively auditing review, testimonial, and ratings practices across all platforms to ensure compliance before formal actions begin. Hosted by Simone Roach. Based on a blog post by Gonzalo E. Mon.

Discover the factors reshaping consumer behaviour as Michelle Dunstan and her team at Janus Henderson explore emerging trends in health, wellness, and technology, alongside the economic impact of GLP-1 inhibitors and ultra-processed foods. Learn how these dynamics influence market valuations and investment strategies.

We examine the economic data and policy developments setting the tone for the US commercial real estate market in early 2026. Discussing what recent labor reports, GDP estimates, and financing trends suggest about growth, risk, and capital markets conditions heading into the year. The conversation also turns to housing policy, including new local initiatives and national proposals, and how these policy signals could influence supply, affordability, and investment strategy across CRE sectors. Key Moments:00:58 Key statistics and market trends03:26 Economic data and labor market insights07:56 GDP and service sector analysis12:18 Housing market update15:13 Consumer data and AI impact19:03 Housing policy and national proposals27:34 Upcoming events and announcements Resources Mentioned:Debt Capital Market Survey - https://www.altusgroup.com/featured-insights/cre-debt-capital-markets-survey-registration/Altus Connect Conference - https://events.altusgroup.com/event/altus-connect-2026/summaryJob Openings and Labor Turnover Survey (JOLTS) - https://www.bls.gov/jlt/ADP National Employment Report - https://adpemploymentreport.com/BLS Employment Situation / December Jobs Report - https://www.bls.gov/news.release/empsit.htmAtlanta Fed GDPNow Estimate - https://www.atlantafed.org/cqer/research/gdpnowS&P Global US Services PMI - https://www.pmi.spglobal.com/ISM Services PMI - https://www.ismworld.org/supply-management-news-and-reports/reports/ism-reports/Consumer Credit (G19) - https://www.federalreserve.gov/releases/g19/current/University of Michigan Consumer Sentiment Index - https://data.sca.isr.umich.edu/Email us: altusresearch@altusgroup.comThanks for listening to the “CRE Exchange” podcast, powered by Altus Group. If you enjoyed this episode, please leave a review to help get the word out about the show. And be sure to subscribe so you never miss another insightful conversation.#CRE #CommercialRealEstate #Property

To celebrate our 100th episode, we've asked two veteranChicago broadcasters to take Checkbook's College of Consumer Knowledge quiz.Lisa Dent is the popular afternoon host at WGN Radio. Steve Bertrand, her longtime news anchor, came out of retirement to challenge her. Play along with our celebrity contestants to test your consumer IQ. The questions are difficult!You might also want to play the online version of Checkbook's College of Knowledge. Topics include auto, food, and your money.Not a Checkbook member? ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Sign up for a free 30-day trial to access all of our unbiased ratings⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.

Economic decisions aren't only driven by hard data. A compelling story can change economic behavior and outcomes. In today's episode, we explore real-world examples of “narrative economics” like how the Suez Canal ended up getting built. And we ask: why do narratives sometimes matter more than truth or data? Related episodes: This indicator hasn't flashed this red since the dot-com bubble Tariffs. Consumer sentiment. Cape Ratio. Pick The Indicator of The Year! The Beigie Awards: Manufacturing takes center stage For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

SHOW1-14-251671 Guests: Elizabeth Peek and John Batchelor. Batchelor and Peek discuss inflation holding firm at 2.7% in December. They evaluate falling gasoline prices and strong holiday retail performance as indicators of improving consumer sentiment. Peek also critiques a DOJ investigation into Jerome Powell, labeling it an "unforced error" that might inadvertently extend Powell's tenure. Guest: Elizabeth Peek. This segment addresses political dissent in Minnesota following a tragedy involving an ICE agent. Peek argues that liberal activists are nationalizing the incident to demonize law enforcement. She views this as partisan positioning for the midterms, intended as a weapon to be used against President Trump. Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Matter. Dempsey explains that the EU lacks a cohesive strategy for Irandespite a consensus on increasing sanctions. Regarding Ukraine, she highlights staggering divisions among European states as the U.S. withdraws military help. Dempsey notes a ceasefire remains unlikely because Russiacurrently has no interest in negotiations. Guests: Judy Dempsey and Thaddeus Matter. The discussion focuses on Chancellor Friedrich Merz's efforts to address immigration to counter the populist AfD party. Dempsey explores the nuances of refugee integration into the German workforce. Finally, she reports European "horror" at potential U.S. moves to annex Greenland, which could threaten the survival of NATO. Guest: Joseph Sternberg. China faces a "sluggish zombie economy" characterized by a burst property bubble and anemic consumption. Sternberg warns of "Japanification," where growth remains stagnant for decades. Beijingstruggles with price deflation, further burdening a heavily indebted economy. Meaningful recovery requires political reforms Xi Jinping resists.  Guest: Joseph Sternberg. President Trump is reportedly using an investigation into Fed Chairman Jerome Powell as a pretext to influence interest rate decisions. Sternberg notes that while central banks like the Bank of England strive for independence, they are increasingly politicized. Additionally, Western media outlets like the BBC initially faced criticism for slow coverage of Iranian massacre 7Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Intense protests in Iran, sparked by decades of mismanagement, have led to a violent crackdown by the regime. Schanzer highlights that these demonstrations are uniquely supported by President Trump's rhetoric. Reza Pahlavi has emerged as a potential figurehead for a transitional government or constitutional monarchy, as the population remains largely pro-Western.8 Guest: Jonathan Schanzer. Syria's new central government remains extremely fragile, with authority barely extending beyond Damascus as factions clash in Aleppo. Schanzer describes a "Sunni jihadist regime" facing retribution from sectarian minorities. Meanwhile, regional tensions escalate as Israel and Iran reportedly narrowly avoided direct conflict, prompting Russia to evacuate its embassy. Guest: Dr. Brenda Shaffer. Iran is a multi-ethnic state where Persians constitute less than 40% of the population. Shaffer explains that while current protests are Persian-led, the regime's survival often depends on the participation of ethnic minorities like Azerbaijanis, Kurds, and Baluch. These groups frequently engage in direct retribution against security forces. Guest: General Blaine Holt (retired). Holt discusses potential U.S. intervention to support Iranian protesters, emphasizing strikes on command nodes rather than ground troops. While the U.S. maintains air superiority, putting special operators on the ground carries high risk. The Iranian people face a critical window of days to succeed before facing stunning reprisals. Guest: Brandon Weichert. Iranian protesters face a brutal regime that may utilize a "Samson Option," firing all missiles at Israel if the government falls. Weichert notes that while the Israelis and CIA have covert assets on the ground, the protest movement lacks a cohesive leader. Proposals for restoring the Pahlavi dynasty are criticized as an impractical solution. Guest: Brandon Weichert. Turmoil in Iran threatens China's energy security, as Beijing receives roughly 70-80% of Iranian oil. Weichert suggests Russia and China are using the crisis to test anti-Starlink technologies. Furthermore, the regime might import foreign terrorists to suppress domestic dissent, while the U.S. provides behind-the-scenes support to the movement. Guest: Gregory Copley. Iran's collapse could dismantle the "International North-South Transport Corridor," a vital trade route for Russia and India. Copley argues that the Iranian public is increasingly secular, with the youth rejecting clerical authority. While the regime may fire remaining missiles in desperation, a post-clerical Irancould ignite Central Asian economic potential. Guest: Gregory Copley. Although the U.S. promises help, Copley warns that a ground invasion is physically difficult and historically unsuccessful. There are signs that Iranian police and some Revolutionary Guard units are refusing to fire on protesters. Ultimately, the Iranian people must take ownership of the revolution to ensure the legitimacy of any successor government. Guest: Gregory Copley. Following the arrest of Maduro, Venezuela is controlled by four competing "crime families." Copley notes the absence of a clear U.S. plan for citizens facing food and medical insecurity. The U.S.seeks to enforce an oil embargo against Cuba, which is currently suffering from infrastructure collapse and electric grid failures. Guest: Gregory Copley. Reza Pahlavi proposes a constitutional monarchy where the crown serves as a symbolic figurehead, similar to the British system. Copley highlights Pahlavi's unique name recognition and legitimacy as the former crown prince. However, air power alone cannot decisively change the situation on the ground, requiring covert support after the clerics collapse.

Inflation ended the year largely unchanged, according to the latest Consumer Price Index data, with lower gasoline prices helping to offset higher food and housing costs. Consumer prices were up 2.7 percent from a year earlier, while core inflation held at 2.6 percent. According to reporting from The New York Times, falling used car prices and cooling apartment rents continued to ease inflation pressures, even as grocery prices posted their fastest monthly increase since 2022 and airline fares jumped amid strong holiday travel. For real estate investors, the data highlights a shifting inflation landscape — moderating housing costs, mixed energy prices, and a Federal Reserve likely entering a wait-and-see phase as the new year begins.

Eric Sterner and Pierre Buhler break down big bank earnings. Eric notes that consumers still look healthy at an aggregate level, with write-offs and provisions for credit losses lower. He also expects M&A activity to be strong this year, boosting bank revenue. Pierre noticed a slowdown and is worried around investment banking. He's also looking for warning signs around credit. They both caution against capping credit card rates, arguing that it will significantly hurt lower-end consumers.======== Schwab Network ========Empowering every investor and trader, every market day.Options involve risks and are not suitable for all investors. Before trading, read the Options Disclosure Document. http://bit.ly/2v9tH6DSubscribe to the Market Minute newsletter - https://schwabnetwork.com/subscribeDownload the iOS app - https://apps.apple.com/us/app/schwab-network/id1460719185Download the Amazon Fire Tv App - https://www.amazon.com/TD-Ameritrade-Network/dp/B07KRD76C7Watch on Sling - https://watch.sling.com/1/asset/191928615bd8d47686f94682aefaa007/watchWatch on Vizio - https://www.vizio.com/en/watchfreeplus-exploreWatch on DistroTV - https://www.distro.tv/live/schwab-network/Follow us on X – https://twitter.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on Facebook – https://www.facebook.com/schwabnetworkFollow us on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/company/schwab-network/About Schwab Network - https://schwabnetwork.com/about

In this episode of BRAVE COMMERCE, hosts Rachel Tipograph and Sarah Hofstetter sit down with John Ferris, President, Consumer at Bausch + Lomb, to discuss how modern consumer behavior is rewriting the rules for legacy brands. John shares how his team is tackling a core challenge in eye health: consumers value vision deeply, but often don't take action until something is wrong, creating a massive opportunity for education-led growth.John also breaks down what it means to market in a world where discovery is increasingly shaped by social platforms and AI tools. He explains how Bausch + Lomb is partnering with eye care professionals who show up as credible “influencers,” and why improving the quality and structure of brand content matters more than ever as chatbots become a go-to source. The episode closes with a look at how the pharmacy channel is evolving, and how “hidden” in-store friction can quietly shift demand online in an instant.Key TakeawaysEducation is a growth lever when consumers delay action until a problem appearsCredibility still wins—but only if you make it easy to understand and easy to trustOptimize content for the new discovery layer (AI + social), not just traditional searchReduce friction everywhere, because shoppers will reroute the moment it gets inconvenient Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

What does it really mean to be consumer-obsessed, and how is AI changing the face of the beauty industry?  In this episode, Tessa Burg and Irina Kulikova—VP, Strategic Development & Integration at The Estée Lauder Companies Inc.—explore the intersection of consumer insights, brand experience and emerging technology. The two discuss how store beauty advisors must now compete with AI, the magic of “small data” and Gen Z's AI shopping revolution.  Leader Generation is hosted by Tessa Burg and brought to you by Mod Op.  About Irina Kulikova: Irina Kulikova is the Vice President of Strategic Development and Integration and Chief of Staff to the President of the EUKEM region (Europe, UK & Ireland, and Emerging Markets) at The Estée Lauder Companies. As a member of the regional management team, she shapes the strategic direction of more than 85 markets and over 20 iconic brands. In her role, Irina leads regional strategy development and execution, market intelligence, consumer insights, strategic pricing, and large-scale transformation initiatives. She also drives key corporate development priorities, including operating model evolution, new market and channel entry, brand integration, and expansion into emerging geographies. Before joining The Estée Lauder Companies, Irina spent more than a decade at Bain & Company across the UK, Middle East, and Russia, advising leading global players in luxury, beauty, jewelry, fashion, and retail. Her experience at the intersection of strategy, brand building, and transformation has given her a deep understanding of how to unlock growth and resilience in the luxury and beauty industries both in developed and emerging markets. Irina holds an MBA from INSEAD. She can be reached on LinkedIn.  About Tessa Burg: Tessa is the Chief Technology Officer at Mod Op and Host of the Leader Generation podcast. She has led both technology and marketing teams for 15+ years. Tessa initiated and now leads Mod Op's AI/ML Pilot Team, AI Council and Innovation Pipeline. She started her career in IT and development before following her love for data and strategy into digital marketing. Tessa has held roles on both the consulting and client sides of the business for domestic and international brands, including American Greetings, Amazon, Nestlé, Anlene, Moen and many more. Tessa can be reached on LinkedIn or at Tessa.Burg@ModOp.com.

You walk the CES 2026 floor with Pete and Dave and quickly realize this episode is about practical gear that earns its place in your life. You hear about clever headphones, smarter thermostats, compact travel tech, and simple photo organization that fixes real annoyances without overthinking them. The crew cuts through the hype, calling out what feels thoughtful versus what just looks flashy, so you can spot the difference between tools that solve problems and gadgets that will gather dust. Then things get broader and more futuristic without losing focus. You explore consumer health tech that is finally becoming accessible, modular controllers that rethink how you interact with devices, and open-ear audio that fits real-world use. Robots take over yards and floors, smart calendars and water sensors aim to reduce daily friction, and networking gear shrinks without giving up power. It is a fast tour of ideas that are close enough to touch, if not already shipping, with one consistent reminder guiding the whole conversation: stay curious, stay selective, and Don't Get Caught chasing shiny things that do not actually improve your day. 00:00:00 Mac Geek Gab 1124 for Monday, January 12th, 2026 January 12th: National Curried Chicken Day MGG Monthly Giveaway – Enter to win a copy of Ecamm Live or Carbon Copy Cloner 7! The MGG Merch Store is Live! MGG's CES 2026 Sponsors: BusyCal (with code MACGEEK10)! Eero Ecamm for Zoom integration MacPaw CCC Backup Cool Stuff Found at CES 2026 00:03:41 TDM Twist Headphones 00:06:36 Eve Thermostat 00:08:08 FotoStax – $25 for a 10-pack 00:11:09 Targus Voyager EXP – $89.99 00:14:04 NOMATIC Travel Pack 00:15:52 Eloquens Email AI Autoresponder 00:21:25 Consumer-focused Blood Glucose Monitors Abbott Lingo, Stelo by Dexcom, Isaac from PreEvent, Y-Brush Halo, Actxa Core Smart Ring Sponsors 00:27:27 SPONSOR: Copilot Money. Your money, beautifully organized, now across every device. For a limited-time, get 26% off your first year when you sign up at https://try.copilot.money/macgeekgab. Get two months free with code ‘macgeekgab'. 00:28:49 SPONSOR: Shopify. In 2026, stop waiting and start selling with Shopify. Sign up for your one-dollar-per-month trial and start selling today at Shopify.com/MGG 00:30:25 SPONSOR: Gusto. Get three months free when you run your first payroll when you start at gusto.com/MGG MOAR Cool Stuff Found at CES 2026 00:31:33 Modue – Modular controllers for gamers, creators, and more 00:35:00 Shokz OpenFit Pro Earbuds 00:38:58 Robot Lawn Mowers Yarbo M-Series, Segway Navimow, Worx, Lymow 00:43:58 Robot Vacuums Eureka E10 Evo Plus – $299 Eureka Z50 $799 Roborock Saros Rover 00:51:13 Skylight Calendar 2 00:53:28 Droplet Smarthome Water Sensor from Hydrific 00:58:04 TP-Link Aireal Digital in-app assistant 01:00:31 TP-Link BE3600 Wi-Fi 7 Portable Travel Router TL-WR3602BE 01:03:21 CubicScreen.com 01:06:22 MGG 1124 Outtro MGG Monthly Giveaway Bandwidth Provided by CacheFly MGG's CES 2026 Sponsors Pilot Pete's Aviation Podcast: So There I Was (for Aviation Enthusiasts) The Debut Film Podcast – Adam's new podcast! Dave's Business Brain (for Entrepreneurs) and Gig Gab (for Working Musicians) Podcasts MGG Merch is Available! Mac Geek Gab YouTube Page Mac Geek Gab Live Calendar This Week's MGG Premium Contributors MGG Apple Podcasts Reviews feedback@macgeekgab.com 224-888-GEEK Active MGG Sponsors and Coupon Codes List BackBeat Media Podcast Network The Mac Geek Gab iPhone app Follow us on Mastodon Mac Geek Gab on Mastodon Adam Christianson on Mastodon Dave Hamilton on Mastodon Pilot Pete on Mastodon Mona for Mastodon (for Mac, iPhone, iPad) Adam Christianson on X/Twitter

The steak on your plate might just be scraps glued together with "meat glue." In episode 849 of the Savage Perspective Podcast, host Robert Sikes sits down with Brett Peterson from Homestead Meat Company to expose the shocking truths of the meat processing industry. They discuss how foreign beef is falsely labeled "Product of USA," the myth of grass-fed beef, and how microplastics end up in your food. Brett shares how his family-owned business is providing a solution with complete farm-to-table traceability, offering high quality, locally raised beef without the misleading labels and industrial shortcuts. This conversation reveals what you're really eating and how to find meat you can trust.Want to build a strong, healthy body from the inside out? Learn the system to properly fuel your workouts and optimize your health in Robert's FREE Bodybuilding Masterclass. Sign up and start your transformation today. https://www.ketobodybuilding.com/registration-2Get Keto Brick: https://www.ketobrick.com/Subscribe to the podcast: https://open.spotify.com/show/42cjJssghqD01bdWBxRYEg?si=1XYKmPXmR4eKw2O9gGCEuQChapters:0:00 - Why the US Beef Herd is at a 50-Year Low 0:45 - How an Instagram DM Led to This Podcast 1:52 - Why I Bought a Meat Company to Feed My 7 Kids 3:25 - How to Buy Farm-Fresh Beef Without a Giant Freezer 5:58 - The Processing Plant That Changed Everything 6:33 - The Biggest Bottleneck for Small Cattle Ranchers7:36 - How a Small Processor Competes With the 6,000-Head-a-Day Giants 9:18 - State Inspected vs. USDA: What's the Difference for Consumers? 11:16 - Why Direct-to-Consumer is the Future of Quality Meat 12:24 - Why Are Beef Prices Skyrocketing? The Foreign Import Problem 15:21 - The "Grass-Fed" Lie: Is Your Beef Really What You Think It Is? 16:23 - Greenwashing: How Labels Deceive Health-Conscious Buyers 18:08 - Our Goal: Complete Farm-to-Table Traceability for Your Beef 19:39 - Grass-Fed vs. Grass-Finished: A Crucial Distinction 21:25 - Can You Choose Non-GMO Grain-Finished Beef? 23:05 - The Shocking Truth About What Factory Hogs Are Fed 25:14 - How Tech & Traceability Will Revolutionize the Beef Industry 28:03 - What Do USDA Beef Grades (Prime, Choice, Select) Actually Mean? 30:21 - Meat Glue: Is Your Steak Pieced Together From Scraps? 32:52 - How Microplastics Are Getting Into Your Store-Bought Meat 36:22 - The "Pink Slime" Scare: What Was It Really? 38:18 - What Preservatives Are In Your Sausage? 40:03 - Why Does Meat from Big Box Stores Make Me Sick? 42:00 - A Message From the Host, Robert Sikes 43:40 - The Celery Powder Trick: A Hidden Source of Nitrites 45:30 - How We Keep Our Ingredient Labels Clean & Honest 48:46 - Why You Shouldn't Skimp on Quality Food 50:50 - How Eating Clean Food Can Transform Your Health 52:32 - Why You Should Stop Eating Margarine Immediately 54:03 - The Truth About Canola (Rapeseed) Oil 55:24 - Why You Should Be Cooking With Tallow 59:09 - How Quality Food Leads to Effortless Weight Loss 1:01:23 - The Life-Changing Benefits of Building More Muscle 1:02:21 - How to Lock In Your Beef Price & Avoid Volatility 1:03:04 - The Nightmare of Shipping Frozen Meat 1:06:06 - Why Packaging Equipment Dictates Product Options 1:07:25 - The Humane Slaughter Process: An Inside Look 1:09:55 - Temple Grandin's Impact on Humane Animal Handling 1:11:39 - What is a HACCP Plan and Why Does It Matter for Food Safety? 1:18:00 - What a High-Quality Processing Plant Actually Looks Like 1:19:56 - Nose-to-Tail: How We Use the Entire Animal 1:22:25 - The Surprising Delicacy of Cow Tongue (Lengua) 1:23:24 - The Hunter's Code: Why You Should Respect the Animal 1:26:09 - Where to Find Homestead Meat Co. & Get a Discount

Today, I'm joined by Sunita Mohanty, co-founder & CEO of Vibrant Practice.   Fixing healthcare's foundational flaws, Vibrant Practice is building the AI-native electronic health record for preventative longevity practices — with tools built for personalized, data-driven care.   In this episode, we discuss building the operating system for modern medicine.   We also cover:   What human-in-the-loop healthcare looks like Why current EHRs fail forward-thinking clinicians Moving from insurance-based to consumer-centered models   Subscribe to the podcast → insider.fitt.co/podcast  Subscribe to our newsletter → insider.fitt.co/subscribe  Follow us on LinkedIn → linkedin.com/company/fittinsider    Vibrant's Website: www.vibrantpractice.com  Contact Sunita: sunita@vibrantpractice.com    -   The Fitt Insider Podcast is brought to you by EGYM. Visit EGYM.com to learn more about its smart fitness ecosystem for fitness and health facilities.   Fitt Talent: https://talent.fitt.co/  Consulting: https://consulting.fitt.co/  Investments: https://capital.fitt.co/    Chapters: (00:00) Introduction (01:37) Sunita's background (02:23) Functional medicine journey (03:30) The inevitability of personalized medicine (04:00) Why providers need better tools (05:00) Current state of EHR (06:30) What makes Vibrant Practice different (08:15) AI-native EHR built for data-driven care (10:30) Integrations for the future (12:45) Serving functional medicine and longevity clinics (15:00) Consumer vs. insurance-based models (17:30) Visualizing patient data over time (19:45) Human-in-the-loop healthcare (22:00) Beta launch (24:15) The "Stripe Atlas" model for new practices (26:30) 2026 roadmap (27:45) Community and ecosystem building (29:00) Technology with intention (30:45) Where to learn more (31:21) Conclusion  

In this Omni Talk Retail episode, Matthew Shay, President and CEO of the National Retail Federation, joins us live from NRF's Big Show from the Vusion podcast studio to break down what's really happening in retail right now. From consumer resilience to affordability pressures, Matt reveals the dual forces shaping 2025's surprisingly strong performance and what that means for 2026. He shares exclusive insights on holiday season results, policy challenges retailers navigated, and why AI is becoming the ultimate force multiplier for businesses of all sizes. Plus, Matt drops a bold prediction about transformation, partnerships, and alliances coming in 2026 that nobody's talking about yet.

Consumers are creating a growing “personalization paradox” when it comes to AI in 2026. They want personalized experiences more than ever, but they're equally anxious about how brands use their data. CapTech's proprietary consumer research reveals that while AI-driven personalization can strongly influence purchase decisions, trust and transparency remain the biggest barriers.CapTech Principal and CX Growth Lead, Bree Basham, and Research Lead, Lea Moon, discuss what to expect with AI in 2026, what we are seeing that drives loyalty, and how brands can thoughtfully balance value and privacy.Listen in to learn more:High‑value, in‑the‑moment personalization increases willingness to share data.AI comfort is rising but opt-out options and human fallback remain essential.Trust improves when brands use plain language and transparency in data use.Consumer adoption varies by mindset – not age or demographic.Read the full research here: https://www.captechconsulting.com/articles/2025-consumer-survey-solving-the-personalization-paradox

The first podcast of 2026! Details emerge on a RedMagic 11 Air! OnePlus might bring back a "Pro" model! Google says ChromeOS will keep getting long term support. Switch 2 sales are down compared to the original Switch. And we should chat about this year's CES! Let's get our tech week started right! -- Show Notes and Links https://somegadgetguy.com/b/4_x Support Talking Tech with SomeGadgetGuy by contributing to their tip jar: https://tips.pinecast.com/jar/talking-tech-with-somegadgetgu Find out more at https://talking-tech-with-somegadgetgu.pinecast.co This podcast is powered by Pinecast. Try Pinecast for free, forever, no credit card required. If you decide to upgrade, use coupon code r-c117ce for 40% off for 4 months, and support Talking Tech with SomeGadgetGuy.

Ann Berry is joined by Gen CEO Vincent Pilette to break down Gen's business model and growth strategy following its expansion beyond cybersecurity. The conversation covers how brands like Norton, Avast, LifeLock and MoneyLion fit together, how Gen thinks about consumer trust and how financial wellness is being integrated into its core security platform. Pilette also discusses customer adoption, global expansion and how the company evaluates future adjacencies and acquisitions.00:00 – Gen CEO Vincent Pilette joins00:41 – Gen's four business pillars and operating segments02:26 – Norton's role in consumer cybersecurity02:57 – Consumer vs. B2B2C growth strategy04:15 – Customer journeys across Norton, LifeLock, and MoneyLion05:07 – Platform integration and challenges with cross-selling06:59 – Subscriber base and membership structure07:58 – Global user scale across paid and free customers08:21 – Financial wellness adoption and growth outlook09:57 – Positioning Gen for consumers and investors12:09 – Trust-based solutions13:33 – Strategic priorities and future expansion areas17:11 – Customer demand for blockchain-based solutions18:16 – Geographic mix and international growth strategyAfter Earnings is brought to you by Stakeholder Labs and Morning Brew.For more go to https://www.afterearnings.comFollow UsX: https://twitter.com/AfterEarningsTikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@AfterEarningsInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/afterearnings_/Reach OutEmail: afterearnings@morningbrew.com$GEN Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of a farmer's greatest assets is the story of how they produce food to feed a growing urban population, says Terry O’Reilly, host of CBC's popular program Under the Influence. At the Southwest Agricultural Conference at the University of Guelph's Ridgetown Campus, O’Reilly, a seasoned marketing expert and noted author, reminded farmers that they... Read More

So, every marketer and their dog is currently sharing their "Top Marketing Trends for 2026" lists. It goes a little something like – AI this, authenticity that, blah blah blah. And look, I'm not saying those things don't matter but here's what I think everyone's missing…None of that matters if you don't understand what's happening with your actual humans – your potential clients, your customers, the people you're trying to reach.You can have the slickest funnel, the best SEO, the perfect Reel strategy BUT if you're fundamentally misreading what people actually want right now, what they're willing to pay for, what makes them trust you or tune you out – you're toast.So in today's episode of the How I Do Content Podcast, I'm flipping the script. Forget the marketing trends for a second – let's talk about the consumer behaviour trends.What's actually shifting in how people make purchase decisions, what they value, what repels them, and what that means for those of us running service-based businesses.Consumer behaviour was always my favorite (and best) subject at uni so I went full nerd wizard for this one. Not to mention I'm chronically online observing what's happening in comment sections, what people are saying on TikTok, what's actually landing vs what's bombing.So I'm putting my sacred screen time to use and sharing the 3 big shifts that are going to determine whether your marketing actually works in 2026.Let's get into it.WORK WITH ME IN 2026If you're wondering how you apply these consumer behaviour trends to your business – well you better join Micro Messaging. We spend 6 months together refining your messaging foundations so you know what to say and why it matters to your dream clients and then put those foundations into action across your entire business.You get monthly coaching calls, live trainings, daily Slack support, and a clear plan to implement while you learn. This isn't another course you buy and never finish – this is hands-on, high-touch support to make sure your messaging actually gets used.And if you're listening to this before January 15th – you can join today and lock in 2025 pricing before it goes up.Sign up now at https://thesocialbolt.com.au/micro-messaging/ WANT MORE?Watch my 13 minute One Offer, 5 Angles at https://thesocialbolt.com.au/mini-training/ Follow Tahryn on Instagram at http://www.instagram.com/thesocialbolt Find out more at https://www.thesocialbolt.com.au TOPICS COVERED IN THIS EPISODEconsumer behaviour trends 2026, how people buy in 2026, what drives purchasing decisions 2026, buyer psychology trends, marketing trends 2026, digital marketing strategy 2026, trust-based marketing, building trust online, authentic marketing, AI and consumer trust, content fatigue, audience behaviour shifts, human connection in marketing, relationship marketing, anti-algorithm marketing, owned audience strategy, email list building, community marketing, buying decisions 2026, why people buy, changing customer behaviour, marketing that converts, consumer expectations 2026, authenticity vs automation, personal brand trust, small business marketing 2026, service-based business trends, online buyer journey 2026, customer trust signals, marketing transparency, adapting marketing strategy 2026.Background Music is Copyright Free. You're free to use this music in your videos.Track: Harry Potter Theme SongMusic promoted by Chayatori RecordsVideo Link: https://youtu.be/WY8-lVlLhWE

Another epic hour with Jordan The Phoenix here on PBN!Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/prepper-broadcasting-network--3295097/support.BECOME A SUPPORTER FOR AD FREE PODCASTS, EARLY ACCESS & TONS OF MEMBERS ONLY CONTENT!Get Prepared with Our Incredible Sponsors! Survival Bags, kits, gear www.limatangosurvival.comThe Prepper's Medical Handbook Build Your Medical Cache – Welcome PBN FamilyThe All In One Disaster Relief Device! www.hydronamis.comJoin the Prepper Broadcasting Network for expert insights on #Survival, #Prepping, #SelfReliance, #OffGridLiving, #Homesteading, #Homestead building, #SelfSufficiency, #Permaculture, #OffGrid solutions, and #SHTF preparedness. With diverse hosts and shows, get practical tips to thrive independently – subscribe now!

Real estate expert Stefani Berkin breaks down how lower interest rates could affect the housing market. Also, Myha'la drops in to discuss season four of "Industry." Plus, Women's Health shares top fitness picks for 2026. And, Joy Bauer kicks off "Start Today with Joy" with meal plans, fitness challenges, and daily inspiration. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

This segment of the Omni Talk Retail Fast Five, sponsored by the A&M Consumer and Retail Group, Mirakl, Ocampo Capital, Infios, Quorso, and Veloq, breaks down Instacart's decision to shut down its AI-driven pricing tests after consumer backlash. Chris and Anne dig into why pricing transparency still matters, how quickly trust can erode, and what this means for AI-powered pricing across grocery and retail. A sharp conversation on where experimentation crosses the line. ⏩ Watch the full episode here: https://youtu.be/j0UulTYE5_8 #Instacart #AIPricing #RetailAI #GroceryDelivery #PricingTransparency #RetailTech #OmniTalk

How will Medicare's telehealth back-and-forth – and new developments like the 10-year CMS ACCESS Model – reshape the investor playbook? Markus Bolsinger, co-head of Dechert's global private equity practice, joins Dechert partner Jennifer Hutchens and associate Brooke Meadowcroft to unpack shifts from pandemic-era expansion to the October 1, 2025 “telehealth cliff” and reinstatement through January 30, and what they mean for strategics and PE. They explore the convergence with DTC pharma and how digital-first infrastructure, data integration and safeguards can make telehealth the connective tissue between coverage and access to care.

As we enter 2026, the global beverage industry is undergoing a seismic shift. Consumer demand has moved beyond simple hydration toward functional benefits, mindful consumption, and flavor sophistication. Tony Vieira, Founder of Mocean, is leading the conversation on how brands must pivot to meet these changing expectations. Vieira is available to provide expert commentary on: * The Rise of Beverage Alternatives: Why "sober-curious" culture is no longer a niche market but a primary driver in product development. * Adult-Centric Formulation: Moving away from the high-sugar, neon-colored energy drinks of the past toward sophisticated, performance-based ingredients. * The Moderation Movement: How shifting consumer habits around alcohol and caffeine are creating a new "Middle Ground" in the beverage aisle. * Flavor Profiles for the Mature Palate: Why modern consumers are trading artificial sweetness for complex, botanical, and fruit-forward profiles like White Peach and Strawberry Guava. Designing for the "Real World": Energy with Intent While the traditional energy drink market has long focused on extreme sports and gaming, Mocean has identified a significant white space: the high-achieving adult. "Our drinks are designed for people with real jobs, real responsibilities, and real goals," says Vieira. "We aren't just selling energy; we're selling the ability to stay sharp and balanced throughout a demanding day without the crash associated with legacy brands." Starting the New Year with Purpose As millions of consumers participate in "Dry January" and set wellness-focused New Year's resolutions, the demand for "better-for-you" alternatives is at an all-time high. Mocean provides a bridge for those looking to maintain their social rituals and energy levels without compromising their health goals.

Today on The Stacks, we are joined by Emmy-nominated TV writer, former co-host of What Now? with Trevor Noah, and creator of the Pop Syllabus newsletter and podcast, Christiana Mbakwe Medina. We talk about how Christiana became a comedy writer and culture critic, the intersections of wealth and access in celebrity culture, and what we can get out of taking pop culture seriously.The Stacks Book Club pick for January is Girl on Girl: How Pop Culture Turned a Generation of Girls Against Themselves by Sophie Gilbert. We will discuss the book on Wednesday, January 28th, with Christiana Mbakwe Medina returning as our guest.You can find everything we discuss on today's show on The Stacks website: https://www.thestackspodcast.com/2026/1/7/ep-406-christiana-mbakwe-medinaConnect with Christiana: Instagram | Pop Syllabus Instagram | Substack | ThreadsConnect with The Stacks: Instagram | Threads | Shop | Patreon | Goodreads | Substack | Youtube | SubscribeSee Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

As healthcare heads into 2026, the signals are getting harder to ignore. Financial pressure is mounting. Consumer expectations are accelerating. And digital strategies that once felt optional are now core infrastructure. In this episode, hosts Chris Boyer and Reed Smith kick off the new year with a trend-focused conversation unpacking what is actually changing across healthcare, digital strategy, and consumer behavior and what that means for health systems of all shapes and sizes. The discussion spans three critical areas. First, how hospitals, health systems, and academic medical centers are navigating margin pressure, workforce challenges, and increasing scrutiny while being asked to do more with less. Second, how digital and marketing strategies are evolving from campaign-driven efforts into intelligence and experience infrastructure powered by data, AI, and governance. And third, how patient expectations are shifting as consumers bring behaviors learned from retail, banking, and technology into healthcare. Rather than predictions for prediction's sake, this episode focuses on real signals already shaping 2026 and the strategic implications leaders need to understand now. From hybrid care and digital access to AI-enabled personalization and experience design, this conversation is about where healthcare is heading and how prepared organizations truly are. Whether you work in marketing, digital experience, strategy, or executive leadership, this episode offers a grounded look at what is changing, what is breaking, and where health systems need to adapt next. Mentions From the Show:  Chartis: From reactive to proactive: Health systems look to AI and digital to flip the healthcare delivery paradigm within 5 years Fierce Healthcare: 2026 Outlook: Hybrid care companies poised for growth driven by economic, policy tailwinds Gartner: AI's Influence Runs Deeper Than You Think — 2026 Gartner Strategic Predictions Explain Why Paul Keckley website HealthGrades: Special Report: Seven Hospital Marketing Trends You Should Know in 2026 KLAS: AI being used more often at point of care, KLAS research shows Salesforce: The Ninth Edition State of Marketing Report Telus Digital: Six healthcare trends reshaping digital care in 2025 with expert insights on AI, ops, mobile and more The Economist: The truth about affordability Reed Smith on LinkedIn Chris Boyer on LinkedIn Chris Boyer website Chris Boyer on BlueSky Reed Smith on BlueSky Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Industry Relations Podcast is now available on your favorite podcast player! Overview In this episode, Rob and Greg dive into the implications of a future where exclusive listings become the industry norm. They explore how this shift could reshape brokerages, MLS operations, agent recruitment, consumer transparency, and portal business models. With a slow news week in real estate, the discussion becomes a deep speculative analysis of what happens if the market fully embraces private listing networks, how big brokers consolidate power, and whether the MLS becomes a "nice to have" rather than a necessity. They also touch on political factors, Zillow vs. Homes.com strategy, and how agents might adapt in a less transparent ecosystem. Key Takeaways Exclusive listings could dramatically shift power to large brokerages, enabling stronger recruitment flywheels and disadvantaging boutique firms. Big brokers may form alliances to consolidate private listing access, leaving smaller shops struggling to compete. MLSs risk becoming secondary tools—useful but no longer essential—if private networks supply the bulk of market inventory. Consumer transparency may decline if days-on-market and price-change history disappear, increasing agent value as data interpreters. Portal strategies (Zillow, Homes.com) may need to adapt, especially if sellers aren't willing to pay for exposure under an exclusive model. The industry still misunderstands exclusive listings, which are less about double-ending and more about recruiting, retention, and leverage. Market cycles and seller psychology remain central, as many sellers still prefer full exposure while others choose convenience and certainty. Political housing policy may shift unexpectedly, though current geopolitical chaos makes predictions uncertain.   Connect with Rob and Greg Rob's Website  Greg's Website    Watch us on YouTube   Our Sponsors: Cotality  Notorious VIP The Giant Steps Job Board    Production and Editing Services by Sunbound Studios  

Michael Mullaney, director of global markets research at Boston Partners, says he expects the stock market can produce another year of modest gains, without a recession, but he notes that his concerns are the potential for Federal Reserve policy mistakes and whether consumer spending can remain strong. He says the top two quintiles of consumers — the upper portion of a K-shaped recovery — are flush right now, and they make up about half of the economy's total spending and should be able to provide a tailwind that helps the market ride through any slowdown period. George Schultze, founder of Schultze Asset Management — the author of "The Art of Vulture Investing" — discusses buying (or short-selling) distressed securities in current market conditions. Plus, Chuck answers a question from a listener who felt her financial adviser was pushing her to make decisions that she thought were, at best, sub-optimal, and at worst a breach of financial responsibility. Chuck — who has written two books on choosing and working with financial advisers — thinks the problem is communications and expectations, which should make it straightforward to fix.

Consumer credit may be approaching its foundational AI moment — with buy now, pay later emerging as the first visible act. On this episode of the Tech Disruptors podcast, Max Levchin, CEO and founder of Affirm and co-founder of PayPal, joins Bloomberg Intelligence global fintech and payments analyst Diksha Gera to discuss how machine learning is replacing static underwriting with real-time, transaction-level intelligence. They also explore why this shift could fundamentally reshape the economics of consumer lending over the next decade.

Brant Pinvidic has sold over 100 TV shows and movie projects to every major network in Hollywood. But one day, while standing in the lobby of MTV, he realized he hated the industry he had conquered.In this episode of Escaping the Drift, John Gafford talks with the legendary producer and author of The 3-Minute Rule about exactly how to simplify your message to close any deal. Brant shares the terrifying story of pitching between Mark Burnett and Simon Cowell, why he took his family to 52 countries in 52 weeks, and the harsh truth about "investing" in private equity that most entrepreneurs ignore.If you struggle to explain what you do clearly or feel trapped by your own success, this episode is the blueprint for reclaiming your freedom and your voice.In this episode, we cover:How to pitch your business clearly in 3 minutes or less.The "whiplash" method of storytelling.Why he quit a dream career in Hollywood to start over.The "Game of Money": Why you are the end consumer, not the investor.Chapter Titles & Timestamps00:00 – Intro: Pitching with Mark Burnett & Simon Cowell03:15 – Traveling 52 Countries in 52 Weeks with Kids12:45 – The 3-Minute Rule: Conceptualize, Contextualize, Actualize20:30 – The CBS Pitch Story: Out in 9 Minutes28:10 – Why I Quit Hollywood: The MTV Lobby Moment36:00 – The "Game of Money": Are You the Investor or the Consumer?45:00 – Finding Purpose Beyond the Paycheck

Discover all the free food, fitness, and family fun available to kick off 2026. Also, Jacob Soboroff, senior political and national reporter for M-S Now, shares stories of heroism from the Los Angeles fires in his new book. Plus, Louis Henry Gates Jr. drops in to discuss “Finding Your Roots. And, Psychologist Dale Atkins on grandparents, grandchildren, and her new book “The Turquoise Butterfly”. Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

 THE RETREAT FROM WOKE CAPITALISM AND RETURN TO THE BOTTOM LINE Colleague Charles Gasparino. Gasparino describes a current retreat from "woke capitalism" as firms like BlackRock and Goldman Sachsface financial losses and consumer pushback. Citing Home Depot co-founder Bernie Marcus, he concludes that prioritizing political activism over shareholder returns is counterproductive, asserting that businesses are now pivoting back to the bottom line. NUMBER 4

View the full results here: https://dfgoty.com/results/2025/ The year is over and Cohh finally realizes what JP stands for. The reveal will have you questioning reality! We take a look back at all the games we've played, didn't play, and wish we played to give you the most definitive list of great games that are not all Clair Obscur: Expedition 33! 0:00 - Intro1:40 - John Paul6:00 - Consumer hardware prices soar10:00 - Favorite New Game IP19:40 - Favorite Multiplayer Game26:00 - Favorite Writing35:10 - Favorite Art Style44:40 - Favorite Music57:00 - Favorite Sound Design1:06:00 - Favorite Performance1:15:50 - Favorite Moment in Games1:23:25 - Favorite Feature1:34:10 - Biggest Surprise1:43:40 - Biggest Disappointment1:58:20 - Games We Wished We Played2:12:10 - Most Anticipated Game of 20262:22:30 - Top 3 Games Streamed & Watched2:41:50 - Cohh's Top 10 Games of 2025 (10-4)2:55:00 - Zeke's Top 10 Games of 2025 (10-4)3:11:00 - JP's Top 10 Games of 2025 (10-4)3:23:00 - 3rd favorite game3:30:00 - 2nd favorite game3:38:20 - Favorite game of the year3:47:25 - The Community's Top 103:49:50 - The Dropped Frames GOTY3:53:20 - Shoutouts See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

2025 is finally over. We had bad consumer sentiment vibes, tariffs, and a seemingly ascendant stock market. And those are just a few indicators from last year!  As we enter 2026, what indicators should we keep an eye on … in the future? On today's episode, our top indicator predictions for the new year.Related: What AI data centers are doing to your electric bill Tariffs. Consumer sentiment. Cape ratio. Pick the Indicator of the Year! What indicators will 2025 bring? For sponsor-free episodes of The Indicator from Planet Money, subscribe to Planet Money+ via Apple Podcasts or at plus.npr.org. Fact-checking by Sierra Juarez. Music by Drop Electric. Find us: TikTok, Instagram, Facebook, Newsletter.  Learn more about sponsor message choices: podcastchoices.com/adchoicesNPR Privacy Policy

President Trump has a serious message for Vladimir Putin. Jake Tapper gets a taste of who the Democrat Party really is. Bill Maher has a message for liberals. Scott Pelley from CBS News is worried about free speech, apparently. NDI Tulsi Gabbard declassifies documents on how the Biden administration labeled Americans who opposed administration policies. COVID vaccine is no longer recommended for young children and pregnant women. Will there ever be accountability for the harms caused by the COVID vaccine? Billy Joel has a brain condition that's taking him off tour. Southwest Airlines' big changes have arrived. Alan Alda … dead or alive? Elon Musk has learned that politics is a bad investment as his DOGE cuts fade away. Is the gold still in Fort Knox? Consumer confidence is higher than expected. Laura Loomer stealing Pat's "Unleashed"?? Was Senator Elizabeth Warren (D-Mass.) behind the autopen signature of President Joe Biden? What's next for South Africa? FBI opening up new investigations around January 6 and White House cocaine. More information about the public Macron spat. Chris Christie is fat. Canada ready to be the 51st state? Secret Service troubles continue. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices