Podcast Summary
Sharing Beverages and Economics Discussions: Listeners join hosts Kyle and Nova for weekly economics podcast discussions, sharing their favorite beverages in a casual, conversational setting.
During their weekly economics podcast "Make Me Smart," hosts Kyle Risdahl and Nova Saxena share what they're drinking and discuss news before inviting Half Full Half Empty's Andrew Drew. Kyle was drinking a Stone IPA called FML, while Nova had a Lustau Amontillado dry sherry. The hosts encouraged listeners to share their beverages in the livestream chat. Allen Pipes had carbonated water, Ryan Coleman identified with the FML sentiment, Robert Cox recommended Voodoo Ranger, Melissa McCarty enjoyed a gin gimlet, Debbie Donovan appreciated seeing Nova on screen, and Karl Strauss' Oktoberfest was a favorite. Mary Lynn Baker opted for Cheerwine, a beverage Kyle and David Gerd had previously discussed. The podcast offers a casual, conversational space for discussing economics and sharing beverages.
Streaming surpasses 50% of total audience viewing for the first time: In July 2023, streaming services surpassed 50% of total audience viewing, with 'Suits' on Netflix and 'Bluey' on Disney Plus being the most-watched shows despite ongoing industry strike and summer doldrums
The shift from traditional cable and broadcast television to streaming services continues to accelerate, with streaming surpassing 50% of total audience viewing for the first time in July 2023. Notably, even during the summer doldrums and a ongoing industry strike, streamers are still gaining traction by licensing and airing popular linear TV shows. For instance, "Suits" was the most-watched show on Netflix, with 18 billion minutes viewed, and "Bluey," a kids' show produced by Australian Broadcasting Company and BBC, was the second most-popular show on Disney Plus. The ongoing industry strike has resulted in interim agreements with independent production companies, allowing smaller films to proceed under SAG AFTRA's demands. This milestone underscores the significant transformation underway in the entertainment industry.
Impact of Hollywood writers' strike on productions: Despite SAG AFTRA rules, around 200 productions continue, with potential long-lasting effects and increased vitriol in public discourse, but the Women's World Cup final offers inspiration.
The ongoing writers' strike in Hollywood has led to a modification in SAG AFTRA rules, preventing interim agreements for productions involved in the strike. Despite this, around 200 productions are still moving forward. The strike's impact is broad and could last longer than expected. Meanwhile, I, as a jaded old fart, offer two thoughts: one depressing and one inspirational. The depressing thought is the increasing vitriol and performative BS in public discourse, especially during the ongoing election and court cases. The inspirational thought is the upcoming Women's World Cup final, which I, as a soccer fan and referee, am excited to watch.
First American woman referees World Cup final: FIFA policy led to Tori Penso officiating, showcasing expertise and paving way for future referees.
The World Cup final referee, Tori Penso, becoming the first American woman to referee the most important soccer game on the planet is a significant achievement. This opportunity came about due to FIFA's policy of excluding referees from their home countries when their teams advance in the tournament to avoid any appearance of impropriety. The American women's soccer team's early exit from the tournament opened the door for American referees like Tori Penso to officiate in crucial matches. It's a cool development that not only showcases Tori's expertise but also paves the way for future soccer referees. The impact of this tournament on forming new soccer players is another exciting aspect. Additionally, the speaker, Tim Anderson, and I share an alma mater, Case Western Reserve University, making our conversation even more interesting. In the upcoming segment, we'll discuss beer made from purified wastewater in a game called Half Full, Half Empty.
Innovative solutions for water scarcity and digital currency: Breweries are using purified gray water for sustainability, PayPal's new stable coin is a step towards digital currency as real money, and the National Park Service plans to open a museum of the American Economy.
As water scarcity becomes a growing concern, particularly in the southwest United States, innovative solutions like using purified gray water for brewing beer are being explored. Sofia Torenzo's interview with Devil's Canyon Brewery in Northern California highlights the need for sustainable practices in the industry. Elsewhere, PayPal's new stable coin, PayPal USD, is a step towards the potential future of digital currency as real money. However, until there are practical applications and faster transaction times, skepticism remains. Lastly, the National Park Service's plan to open a museum of the American Economy in the First Bank Building in Philadelphia is a cool idea, shedding light on the history of the country's financial system. Overall, these topics showcase the importance of innovation, sustainability, and historical education in addressing current and future challenges.
Exploring the Impact of Technology on Our Daily Lives: Technology offers convenience but requires critical perspective. AI-generated reviews save time but don't replace individual research. Autonomous delivery robots simplify services but have limitations and risks.
Technology, such as Amazon's AI-generated product review summaries and autonomous delivery robots, continues to evolve and integrate into our daily lives. While these advancements offer convenience and simplification, it's essential to maintain a critical perspective and consider potential drawbacks, such as the authenticity of online reviews or privacy concerns with robotic delivery. The use of AI in collating and summarizing product reviews can save time and provide useful insights, but it doesn't replace the need for individual research and discernment. Similarly, the rise of autonomous delivery robots signifies a shift towards more automated services, but it's crucial to acknowledge the limitations and potential risks associated with these technologies. Overall, it's essential to stay informed and adapt to these technological advancements while maintaining a balanced perspective.
Autonomous Red Wagon-Like Delivery Carts for Short-Distance Food Deliveries: New company uses autonomous, red wagon-like delivery carts for short-distance food deliveries, reducing cars on the road and promoting sustainability.
A new company is using autonomous, red wagon-like delivery carts to provide food delivery services in areas like UCLA, with drivers controlling them via Xbox game controllers. These carts, which are primarily used for short-distance deliveries within 2 miles of the restaurant, help reduce the number of cars on the road and contribute to sustainability. Despite their small size and the challenge of controlling them, they have gained popularity due to their convenience and eco-friendliness. The company, which started at UCLA, now operates in various cities like LA, Chicago, and Houston.
Importance of participation and engagement in communities: Disappointment over low voter turnout, emphasizing the importance of engagement and support in communities and in things we care about. Highlighting the impact of aesthetics and technology, and encouraging listeners to be more involved and engaged.
Participation and contribution are important values, whether it's in a community or a podcast audience. In the discussion, the hosts expressed their disappointment towards the low voter turnout and emphasized the importance of engagement and support. They also shared their thoughts on aesthetics and the impact of technology on neighborhoods, highlighting the importance of harmony and peace. Ultimately, they encouraged listeners to be more involved and engaged in their communities and in the things they care about. Additionally, they introduced Million Bazillion, a podcast designed to help kids understand complex financial concepts, emphasizing the importance of education and knowledge.
