Seasonal gardening and allotment podcast from the United Kingdom.
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Sean James Cameron Podcasts
Hosted by former Marvel entertainment lawyer Paul Sarker and entertainment enthusiast Mesh Lakhani, Better Call Paul will delve into the business and legal issues at play behind the glitz and glam. This show takes you beyond the catchy headlines to find out what’s really at play behind the scenes and gives you an introduction to the business side of show business.
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Agency Ascend is a podcast for insurance agents and agency owners who are looking for resources to scale their business. The show is hosted by CEO, Chris Sterlacci, and other staff members of CAA to bring you tools and guidance on how they help Agency Owners turn their business into a major asset.
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423. Tribeca Film Festival & NCAA House Settlement Approved
31:35
31:35
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31:35This week, Paul recaps a great Tribeca Film Festival event he attended and discusses its importance to the greater NY entertainment scene. Next, Paul and Mesh cover some recent layoffs affecting legacy media companies. Finally, Paul provides an update on the House v. NCAA settlement which was just approved and formally ushers in the era of colleges…
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The $800K Bet That Paid Off: Wes Spencer’s Agency Story
54:35
54:35
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54:35In this episode of Agency Ascend, hosts Chris and Jessica sit down with Wes Spencer, co-owner of Spencer Insurance DFW, for a masterclass in agency growth and strategic decision-making. Wes shares how he and his brother navigated the transition from a captive agency to full independence—one of only eight agencies nationwide to take advantage of Nat…
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422. Hailey Bieber’s Rhode sells for $1B and Reed Hastings joins Anthropic
38:02
38:02
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38:02This week, Paul and Mesh start with a recap of the highest grossing Memorial Day Weekend for the U.S. movie business as Lilo and Stitch outperformed and MI:8 held its own. Next, they discuss the latest billion-dollar beauty sale as e.l.f has agreed to buy Hailey Beiber’s Rhode skin care and cosmetics brand for up to one billion dollars ($1,000,000,…
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How Referrals Built a Powerhouse with James Spencer of Insurance DFW
45:06
45:06
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45:06In this Agency Ascend episode, James Spencer of Insurance DFW shares his journey from the captive world to building one of the most respected independent agencies in the Career Agency Alliance. He explains how early frustrations with changing comp plans led him and his brother to take a long-view approach to starting their own agency. By prioritizi…
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421. HBO Max Deja Vu, NBC Clears Path for NBA; & Charter Cox Cable Megamerger
34:46
34:46
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34:46Paul and Mesh begin with WBD’s announced rebrand of Max back to HBO Max and a few Cannes film festival highlights. Next, they recap 5 primetime shows that NBC recently cancelled, in part to make room for its new NBA telecasts which will air on Tuesdays and Sundays (in addition to Peacock). Finally, they break down a recently announced 34.5B merger …
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420. Conclave: A New Pope, College Sports Commission, and Hollywood Tariffs
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35:13
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35:13Paul and Mesh begin with life imitating art as the real-life 2025 Conclave has a few striking similarities to the 2024 Best Picture nominee Conclave. Next, they discuss President Trump's intent to establish a College Sports Commission to be co-chaired by Nick Saban and Cody Campbell. Finally, Paul and Mesh breakdown the latest entertainment tariffs…
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419. Thunderbolts* Opens, Diddy Trial Kicks Off
33:55
33:55
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33:55Paul and Mesh begin with a recap of Marvel's Thunderbolts* box office performance which was solid but not a home run. Next, they discuss the start of Diddy's criminal trial in New York after Diddy rejected a plea deal on the eve of trial. Finally, Paul provides an update on the FCC and potential replacements for democratic commissioners, including …
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418. Sinners Sizzles, Sarandos Speaks, and YouTube Turns 20
31:48
31:48
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31:48Paul and Mesh begin with a discussion of Ryan Coogler's Sinners which continues his stellar trajectory and whether his bespoke deal with WB could become a trend. Next, they discuss Ted Sarandos' comments regarding the theatre experience and shifting consumer preferences. Finally, they celebrate YouTube which turned 20 in April and look back at how …
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Selling Insurance During a Hard Market with Cameron Moore
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40:01In this episode of Agency Ascend, Cameron Moore, founder of ProCo Insurance, shares how he built a thriving independent agency during one of the hardest insurance markets in decades. From abandoning law school to launching ProCo during COVID, Cameron’s story is one of resilience, mentorship, and relentless forward motion. He discusses the pivot fro…
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417. Drake Sues to end Rap Battle and NIL QB Drama
35:58
35:58
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35:58This week, Paul and Mesh begin with musical festival season as Coachella concludes and Fyre Festival 2 hits the brakes. Next, they discuss Drake’s amended defamation complaint against his own label, Universal Music Group, resulting from his rap beef with Kendrick Lamar. Finally, Paul breaks down college football QB, Nico Iamaleava, leaving the Univ…
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416. Prada buys Versace and James Cameron embraces AI in VFX
36:09
36:09
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36:09Paul and Mesh begin with a luxury fashion update as Versace announced that it would be acquired by Prada to create a team-up of Italian luxury fashion brands. Next, Paul discusses the massive $1.68 billion dollar damages award in the sexual assault trial against writer director James Toback. Finally, Paul and Mesh discuss James Cameron, one of the …
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415. Cinema Con 2025, Tariffs hit Hollywood, and Arkansas Social Media Law
35:14
35:14
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35:14This week, Paul shouts out Newsmax and their successful IPO before Mesh and Paul go over their top Cinema Con 2025 films. Next, they discuss the impact of tariffs on the entertainment industry, not that they have any answers. Finally, Paul provides an update on NetChoice v. Griffin, a ruling which struck down Arkansas' 2023 Social Media Safety Act …
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414. Sundance's New Digs & AI Video Editor Update
33:55
33:55
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33:55This week, Paul and Mesh begin with a discussion of the use of trademarks in Film and TV and discuss some recent controversies. Next, they update us on Sundance's relocation from Park City, Utah to Boulder, Colorado beginning in 2027. Finally, Mesh shares the amazing developments he is seeing in the AI space for photo and video editing. Learn more …
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Sean Munger on Playing the Long Game in Insurance
40:04
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40:04In Episode 7 of Agency Ascend, we sit down with Sean Munger, a producer with an owner’s mindset, to unpack what it really means to play the long game. This episode is all about consistency, execution, and long-term thinking. Sean breaks down how he built trust with clients, developed a disciplined work ethic, and focused on delivering value over ti…
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413. March Madness, Goodbye to Hollywood?, and Village Roadshow Pictures in Bankruptcy
31:39
31:39
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31:39This week, Paul excitedly supports his Duke Blue Devils in their March Madness journey, while Mesh largely avoids the hype. Next, Paul and Mesh provide an update on the state of entertainment production in LA, the impact of tax incentives, and whether LA can reestablish itself as the epicenter of the production business. Finally, they discuss the b…
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412. Ne Zha 2 Crushes Box Office and Stan Lee Remembered
33:13
33:13
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33:13This week, Paul begins with a recap of Chinese box office phenomenon, Ne Zha 2, which has crossed 2B in revenue and sold 300M+ tickets in China. Next Paul and Mesh discuss the net churn impacting the most popular streamers, and how nearly 50% of subscribers who cancel their subscription re-subscribe within a year. Finally, they reflect on Stan Lee,…
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Hidden Risks of Agency Contracts and How to Avoid Them
40:39
40:39
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40:39Many agency owners assume they own their book of business—but the reality can be far more complicated. In this episode of Agency Ascend, we dive deep into the ownership dilemma that many agents face. While you may have control over client data, do you really own your carrier contracts? The difference could be the deciding factor in whether you can …
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411. Anora's Triumph, Taylor Swift Ticket Scam, and Paramount Pushes Back
31:46
31:46
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31:46This week, Paul and Mesh are back in the saddle and start by discussing how unlikely Oscar's star Sean Baker and his film Anora defied expectations and brought home statues without a box office haul. Next, they discuss an alleged ticket scam between conspirators from Jamaica and Jamaica, Queens that resulted in the theft of over $600K in tickets to…
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410. Ross Benes, Marketing Analyst and Author
35:23
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35:23This week, Paul interviews Ross Benes who is an author, journalist and analyst for eMarketer. Ross discusses his upcoming book, 1999, and how it was a such a pivotal year for today’s culture (reality TV, Netflix’s launch). In addition, Ross discusses how streamers have embraced advertising tiers and whether skinny bundles will stem the tide of decl…
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This week, Paul Interviews Eric Perko who is an executive at the forefront of media and advertising. Eric discusses how he got into media, what led him to start Apollo Partners, and how he helps brands stay ahead of the curve, as well as why the Super Bowl is such a sought after media jewel. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adch…
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Scaling an Insurance Business While Keeping Margins in Check
42:50
42:50
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42:50Growing an insurance agency isn’t just about adding clients—it’s about building a business model that retains top talent, maximizes profitability, and scales efficiently. In this episode of Agency Ascend, industry experts discuss the challenges of thin margins, producer retention, and the financial realities of scaling an agency. One of the biggest…
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408. Superbowl Afterglow, Cap 4, and Diddy Claps Back
29:52
29:52
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29:52This week, Paul and Mesh ponder Valentine’s day ideas and reflect upon the amazing Superbowl advertising and streaming numbers. Next, they discuss the first MCU release of 2025, Captain America: Brave New World and whether it lives up to the lofty expectations of Captain America: Winter Solider. Finally, Paul breaks down Diddy’s $100M defamation ca…
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407. Super Bowl, Media Earnings and House v. NCAA Drama
34:56
34:56
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34:56This week, Paul celebrates his beloved Philadelphia Eagles who dominated on their path to becoming Super Bowl champions. Next, Paul and Mesh discuss earnings announcements from some of the biggest tech and media companies. Finally, Paul updates us on some dissension within the college athlete ranks as the House v. NCAA settlement approaches its Apr…
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406. Sundance, Streaming Rankings, and Paramount Update
33:27
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33:27This week, Paul and Mesh recap some of the winners of the 2025 Sundance Film Festival and ponder whether it can remain in Park City, UT. Next, they break down the ranking of the various SVOD and FAST platforms based on Nielsen viewership data. Finally, they discuss the efforts of Skydance and Paramount to clear regulatory hurdles around the long-aw…
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405. Oscar Noms; Baldoni's Complaint; South Park Suit advances
34:50
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34:50Paul and Mesh start with a quick review of the 2025 Oscar nominations and celebrate Netflix's 16 selections. Next, they provide an update on the Baldoni v. Lively lawsuit as Justin Baldoni's complaint has been released. Finally, they update another major lawsuit as WBD's case against Paramount for breach of an exclusive South Park license survived …
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404. Goldwyn Harper Interview: How Television Broke College Sports
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40:54
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40:54This week, Paul interviews television and sports executive, Goldwyn Harper, a West Point graduate and life-long sports fan who is currently a distribution executive at a Regional Sports Network and was previously at both DISH and the NFL prior to a short stint at the Orange Bowl. He shares his deep knowledge of both television and sports to analyze…
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403. LA Fires Hit Entertainment Industry; Venu Sports Shuttered
41:41
41:41
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41:41This week, Paul and Mesh discuss the fires that have devastated parts of Los Angeles, including neighborhoods which were home to many stars in the entertainment industry. Next, they discuss the abrupt end of Venu sports, the JV among Disney, WBD and Fox which was shuttered before it ever launched. Finally, they discuss incoming FCC chairman Brendan…
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Mentorship is Key for Insurance Agents’ Growth
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35:15Access Plus is revolutionizing the insurance industry with a mentorship-driven approach that empowers agents to succeed in both personal and commercial lines. In this episode, the Agency Ascend team—Chad, Chris, Nikki, and Courtney—discuss the critical role Access Plus plays in providing market access, training, and personalized support. They share…
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402. Hollywood Drama: Jolie-Pitt divorce and Blake Lively v. Justin Baldoni
37:59
37:59
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37:59This week, Paul and Mesh share their New Year's resolutions before digging into two very high-profile and drama-filled disputes among Hollywood A-listers. First, they recap the 8-year divorce battle between Angelina Jolie and Brad Pitt which was finally resolved in the last days of 2024. Next, they recap the It Ends with Us scandal involving actor/…
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This episode, Paul and Mesh look back on 2024 with the third annual Paulies. Paul and Mesh will award: Best Picture, Best Box Office Performance, Best TV Show, Best Streamer, Most Interesting Lawsuit/Legal Case, and Best BCP Topic of 2024. Tune to reflect on an amazing year in the world of technology, media, sports and entertainment. Happy new year…
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348. New FTC Chair, Award Season Starts, and Jay-Z Accused
30:49
30:49
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30:49This week, Paul and Mesh start off by discussing Andrew Ferguson, the next FTC chair, and how his approach may differ from Lena Kahn’s anti-competitive, pro-consumer approach. Next, they recap the Golden Globe and Critics Choice Award nominations. Finally, they discuss Jay-Z being implicated in a civil lawsuit which now accuses both Diddy and Jay-Z…
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Helping Independent Insurance Agents Find Overnight Success
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36:50In this episode of Agency Ascend, we sit down with Jeff Brewer, Executive Director of the Independent Insurance Agents of Dallas (IIAD), and Chris Lacy to explore the dynamic world of independent insurance agencies. Jeff shares the long-standing mission of IIAD to empower agents with resources, education, and advocacy while addressing the unique ch…
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347. Thanksgiving Box Office Crushes and Future AI Creator Payouts?
34:48
34:48
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34:48This week, Paul and Mesh are back at it after a week off for Thanksgiving. They first recap the best Thanksgiving weekend in history for movie theaters (hint Moana 2 shattered records and expectations). Next, they discuss the increased demand for realty TV co-productions. Finally, they look forward to a creator-AI equilibrium where artists can get …
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346. Jussie Smollett Conviction Overturned; FCC Musical Chairs; and NIL Update
32:08
32:08
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32:08This week, Paul and Mesh begin with an update on Jussie Smollett, whose 2021 conviction was overturned as a violation of due process. Next, they discuss the leadership changes at the top of the FCC which will go into effect in January of 2025. Finally, the discuss an NIL update as the Governor of Ohio pushes to accelerate the process of students ge…
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Struggling to Grow? Discover the Secret to Insurance Agency Success
38:18
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38:18In this episode of Agency Ascend, Isaac Smith, Chris Sterlacci, Chad Brumit, and Pat Mulady revisit the value Coverage Agency Alliance brings to its members. They discuss leveraging resources like growth coaches and Access Plus, navigating hard markets, and balancing independence with collaboration for growth. Shares: Isaac: “The Magic Of Thinking …
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345. Disney's Search For Iger's Successor and Onion's Bid for Infowars
36:31
36:31
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36:31This week, we recap Netflix's Jake Paul v Mike Tyson live event and discuss the Nielsen streaming TV and film ratings for October. Next, Paul and Mesh break down Disney's recent earnings call and its search for Bob Iger's successor. Finally, they discuss Alex Jones' recent bankruptcy auction in which Onion seemingly submitted the winning bid for th…
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344. Influencers Sway Election and Possible Media Landscape Changes
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35:25This week, Paul and Mesh highlight a few entertainment headlines prior to focusing on Trump's election win. In particular, they discuss how the result was a surprise to many mainstream media outlets and how Trump's strategy of appearing on popular long-form podcasts resonated with a new generation of voters. Finally, they ponder whether Republican …
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343. November Box Office Preview and Schiff Calls for Federal Film Tax Credit
36:08
36:08
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36:08This week, Paul and Mesh look forward to four tentpole releases this November: Wicked, Gladiator 2, Moana 2, and Red One. Next, Paul discusses the United Way Hurricane Benefit Concert in support of the communities impacted by Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Finally, they discuss calls from politicians and other industry leaders for a Federal film tax…
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342. Eva Longoria saves John Wick Franchise, Recruiting Caitlin Clark, and AI radio hosts?!
41:09
41:09
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41:09This week Paul and Mesh look forward to Halloween and Diwali and reflect on Liam Neeson's action roles amid his tentative retirement plans before discussing Eva Longoria's last minute financing of John Wick which made the billion-dollar franchise possible. Next, they delve back into women's basketball and rumors that Caitlin Clark is being heavily …
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Strategic Alliances for Independent Agent Empowerment
41:24
41:24
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41:24Welcome to Agency Ascend, the podcast where we explore the journeys and strategies of agency owners and entrepreneurs who are scaling their businesses to new heights. In this episode we are introduced to Chris Sterlacci, CEO of the Coverica Agency Alliance (CAA), and special guest Mike Sterlacci, the Founder of CAA. In this episode they talk about …
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341. Liam Payne's Tragic Death and FTC Click to Cancel
34:17
34:17
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34:17This week, Paul and Mesh discuss former One Direction member, Liam Payne's tragic death as he fell from a third floor balcony in his hotel in Buenos Aires. Next, they discuss Christopher Nolan's next film at Universal and finally they end with the FTC's recently announced final rule which creates liability for companies that do not allow subscriber…
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340. Fall TV Deep Dive and FAST TV Heats up
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32:58
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32:58Paul and Mesh begin with a celebration of peak sports season and discuss the recent spike of LSAT takers. Next, they discuss the DIRECTV and DISH merger and DIRECTV's announced entry into the free ad supported streaming (FAST) market. Finally, they do a deep dive into to the 60+ series coming out this fall and highlight the ones they most want to s…
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339. Joker 2 Falters, Entertainment Layoffs, and Diddy Scandal Grows
33:06
33:06
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33:06Paul and Mesh begin with a discussion of the movie box office, including Joker: Folie a Deux's underwhelming opening weekend and rave reviews for The Wild Robot. Next, they discuss the U.S. jobs report and entertainment industry layoffs as well as QVC's entry into live sports programming. Finally, then with a Diddy scandal update including 120 plai…
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338. Faisal Lateef: General Counsel of Avant Gardner
42:05
42:05
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42:05This week, Paul interviews Faisal Lateef, the general counsel of Avant Gardner. Avant Gardner is a leading electronic dance music brand and venue operator in New York City and it operates the legendary Brooklyn Mirage, among other venues. Faisal discusses his entry into the music business, his journey to law school and how he pivoted during the pan…
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337. Emmys, Diddy in Jail, and California's New AI Laws
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35:31This week Paul and Mesh quickly recap the Emmys and reflect on the biggest TV shows of the last year. Next, they discuss Diddy's arrest and the federal indictment regarding decades of criminal activity and ponder Sean Combs' future. Finally, they breakdown five new laws enacted in California regarding the use of AI in political content and sexual d…
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336. VMAs Recap, 2nd Presidential Debate, & Taylor’s Presidential Pick
30:58
30:58
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30:58Paul and Mesh begin by looking back at the incredible career of James Earl Jones who passed away at the age of 93 but leaves behind a legacy of timeless characters. They then dive into the latest Max growth projections and recap the 40th year of MTV’s VMA's. Finally, they discuss the viewership numbers for the second presidential debate and whether…
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335. Summer Box Office Recap and Matthew Perry's Dealer's Face Trial
34:54
34:54
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34:54This week, Paul starts with a shoutout to SABANY who graciously invited him to host their 2024 Awards Gala and then Paul and Mesh discuss the U.S. Open and the Toronto International Film Festival. Next, they recap the summer box office and August jobs report with a focus on the entertainment industry. Finally, they discuss the criminal investigatio…
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334. Venice Film Festival, Joaquin Phoenix Drama, and Film Tax Incentive Review
34:43
34:43
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34:43This week, Paul and Mesh reflect on the end of summer and Alexandra Cooper's new 9-figure podcast deal. Next, they discuss the Venice Film festival and the legal implications of Joaquin Phoenix bailing on a film project 5 days prior to production. Finally, they update us on the state of the California film and television industry and how its market…
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333: Kenny Leu - Actor, Entrepreneur, and Martial Arts Champ
41:34
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41:34This week, Paul interviews another unbelievable guest, Kenny Leu. Kenny's star in the acting world is rising. After selling his company, he took the plunge and decided to pursue his childhood acting passion full-time. He walks us through his move to LA, getting representation, and eventually transition from commercials, to network television and fi…
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332. Sean Gupta: Banker, TV Exec and Columbia Professor
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37:46
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37:46This week, Paul interviews Sean Gupta, a television executive and former investment banker who has deep experience across cable, broadcast and streaming. Sean, who also teaches a class on television and streaming at Columbia Business School, provides an insider perspective on the forces causing the major shifts in television today and where the ind…
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