Real American Business News: Tips for how Business's Should Navigate Tariffs - ESPN's Big Move Shifts Changing Media Landscape - The $97 Billion Industry Hiding in Plain Site

Summary

Summary of "Right About Now with Ryan Alford" Episode: Real American Business News
Release Date: May 16, 2025
Podcast: Right About Now with Ryan Alford | The Radcast Network

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Introduction

In this episode of Right About Now with Ryan Alford, hosts Ryan Alford and Chris Hansen delve into pressing business news affecting the American landscape. The discussion centers around navigating tariffs, ESPN's strategic moves in the evolving media environment, and the booming trading card industry. Additionally, the hosts share insights on digital advertising innovations, Airbnb's new service offerings, and Apple's foray into brain-computer interfaces.

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Tariffs: Navigating the New Trade Landscape

Timestamp: [01:42] - [18:15]

Overview:
The episode opens with Ryan and Chris discussing the recent developments in U.S. tariffs, particularly the pause and potential reduction of tariffs between the U.S. and China. They emphasize the importance of understanding and preparing for the fluctuating trade policies and their direct and indirect impacts on businesses.

Key Points:

1. Tariff Pause and Negotiations:

   • Ryan Alford mentions, “Tariffs are on hold. Deals are being had...” ([01:56]).
   • Chris Hansen sees this as positive, noting a market rebound: “Stock market's been rocking and rolling it... we've surpassed where the downturn was...” ([02:48]).

2. Market Reactions and Crypto Insights:

   • The hosts highlight the resilience of the stock market and the rise of cryptocurrencies like XRP, which has seen a 20% increase over the past week ([03:16]).

3. Expert Insight with Arjun Singh:

   • Arjun Singh, author of Competitive Success: Winning Strategies with Corporate War Games, joins the conversation to break down the complexities of tariffs.
   • Key Advice:
     • Prepare for Multiple Scenarios: "You need to prepare for the worst. Hope is not a strategy." ([06:54]).
     • Supply Chain Realignment: Arjun cites Apple’s shift from China to India for iPhone production as an example of proactive adjustments ([11:56]).
     • Cost Management: Strategies on passing increased costs due to tariffs to consumers without alienating them are discussed ([14:29]).
     • Potential Return of U.S. Manufacturing: Arjun predicts a shift towards automated and technology-driven manufacturing in the U.S., leveraging AI and robotics ([15:18]).

4. Predictions and Future Outlook:

   • Arjun forecasts stabilization within a few months, emphasizing the U.S.’s strong bargaining position in global trade due to its economic influence ([17:05]).
   • Discussion on TikTok’s future in the U.S. amidst regulatory pressures, highlighting potential sales to American companies to comply with regulations ([18:25]).

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Alford: “Hope is not a strategy.” ([06:54])
• Arjun Singh: “Look at those varieties, war game the situation, and build a plan for situations that may occur which we don't know if they will or not.” ([14:00])

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ESPN's Strategic Move: Shifting Media Landscape

Timestamp: [22:59] - [27:33]

Overview:
Ryan and Chris discuss ESPN's rebranding of its streaming service to simply "ESPN," reflecting the broader shift from traditional cable to streaming platforms. They analyze the implications for consumers and the competitive landscape with other streaming giants.

Key Points:

1. Rebranding and Service Tiers:

   • ESPN announces two subscription tiers: Unlimited Plan at $29.99/month or $45.99 bundled with Disney+ and Hulu, and a Select Plan at $11.99/month with limited content ([25:51]).
   • Ryan appreciates the simplicity: “They had been calling themselves the new flagship. So now it's... the sports network.” ([26:00]).

2. Impact of Cord-Cutting:

   • The hosts compare ESPN’s move to the broader trend of cord-cutting, emphasizing the shift to on-demand, personalized viewing experiences.
   • Chris Hansen humorously remarks on the high costs of streaming compared to traditional cable, likening it to airline add-ons: “For the seat belt… $14.99 for the oxygen mask.” ([27:39]).

3. Future of Cable and Streaming:

   • Ryan predicts the eventual decline of cable, favoring flexible streaming solutions that cater to individual preferences and devices ([26:09]).

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Alford: “Cable's built on 400 channels, 390, you don't watch. And now these streaming platforms... this is where it's going.” ([26:00])
• Chris Hansen: “Like Spirit Airlines.” ([27:33])

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The $97 Billion Trading Card Industry: A Hidden Gem

Timestamp: [28:15] - [37:48]

Overview:
The conversation shifts to the resurgence of the trading card industry, highlighting its exponential growth and the diverse range of collectibles, including unconventional items like Pope trading cards.

Key Points:

1. Market Growth and Trends:

   • The trading card market is projected to reach $97 billion by 2027, with diverse offerings capturing consumer interest ([28:15]).
   • Examples include specialized cards like Pope Leo cards with unique backgrounds such as deep-dish pizza in Chicago ([32:03]).

2. Collectibles and Consumer Behavior:

   • Ryan and Chris discuss the tangible appeal of trading cards, emphasizing their physical nature allows for personal connection and value appreciation.
   • The hosts share anecdotes about personal collections and the appeal of unique and themed trading cards ([33:06]).

3. Upcoming Series and Guest Insights:

   • Announcing a new trading card series segment with guests like Brian Ludden (CEO of LudX), Gary Vee, Maddie Rich, and Jeremy Eisenberg.
   • Plans for giveaways and interactive segments to engage listeners and celebrate the trading card craze ([35:57]).

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Alford: “There is a trading card for everyone.” ([33:10])
• Chris Hansen: “It's a case of like whether it gets quickly resolved or a little bit, it drags on for a little bit longer.” ([17:05])

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Digital Advertising Innovations and Market Shifts

Timestamp: [19:58] - [25:51]

Overview:
The hosts explore recent advancements in digital advertising, focusing on personalized and automated ad tools introduced by platforms like Yahoo Sports and Snap.

Key Points:

1. Yahoo Sports and Snap's New Ad Tools:

   • Yahoo Sports collaborates with Rich Kleiman to enhance premium sports storytelling through original video content and automated ad-buying tools ([22:59]).
   • Snap unveils new ad features including sponsored snaps in chat, promoted places, and AI-powered smart campaigns, aiming to provide more personalized and effective advertising solutions ([25:09]).

2. Personalized and Dynamic Advertising:

   • Ryan proposes innovative ad placements, such as dynamic ads integrated into story content, offering a less intrusive advertisement experience while maintaining user engagement ([23:19]).

3. Future of Digital Marketing:

   • Emphasis on the shift towards AI-driven ad planning for faster and smarter campaign executions.
   • Discussion on how these tools can benefit both advertisers and content creators by aligning budgets with available media and enhancing audience targeting ([25:14]).

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Alford: “Dynamic ads on the story content itself... sponsored stories that aren't like the entire story.” ([23:32])
• Chris Hansen: “AI driven ad planning everywhere signals a shift towards faster, smarter campaign execution.” ([24:17]).

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Airbnb’s Expansion into Personalized Services

Timestamp: [27:33] - [30:03]

Overview:
Ryan and Chris highlight Airbnb's latest app redesign, introducing "Airb Services," which allows users to book personalized services like chefs, personal trainers, and more during their stays.

Key Points:

1. New Service Offerings:

   • Airbnb expands beyond accommodations to offer services such as chefs, personal trainers, masseuses, photographers, hair and makeup artists, and more ([28:15]).
   • The launch covers 10 categories across 100 cities, aiming to compete directly with hotels by providing a more integrated travel experience ([29:23]).

2. Consumer Convenience and Market Competition:

   • Discussion on how these added services enhance the travel experience by offering convenience and personalized touch.
   • Ryan humorously suggests potential themed services for specific traveler needs, such as birthday packages with chefs and catering ([30:01]).

3. Market Impact and Consumer Adoption:

   • Despite previous challenges like slower booking growth and legal issues, the introduction of personalized services is seen as a strategic move to invigorate Airbnb’s market presence ([30:24]).

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Alford: “I want a personal chef that does turn down service and feeds me bon bonds.” ([29:25])
• Chris Hansen: “I could see it. I mean, I. Buddy last week told me he Airbnb a house on the beach and he wanted. He literally was talking about wanting a chef.” ([30:28])

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Apple's Venture into Brain-Computer Interfaces

Timestamp: [30:28] - [35:57]

Overview:
The episode concludes with a forward-looking discussion on Apple’s announcement to support brain implant controls for its devices, marking a significant advancement in brain-computer interface technology.

Key Points:

1. Apple’s Innovation:

   • Apple plans to enable users to control iPhones and other devices using neural signals, potentially revolutionizing accessibility for individuals with severe physical impairments ([33:09]).
   • The technology anticipates future FDA approval of implanted devices, paralleling advancements by companies like Elon Musk’s Neuralink ([34:16]).

2. Implications for Accessibility and Technology:

   • Discussion on how brain implants could transform lives by providing new ways to interact with technology, enhance productivity, and offer medical benefits.
   • The integration of AI and robotics in this technology emphasizes the synergy between hardware and software advancements ([35:08]).

3. Future Prospects and Skepticism:

   • While optimistic about the potential, the hosts acknowledge the challenges and ethical considerations surrounding brain-computer interfaces.
   • Chris Hansen expresses intrigue and curiosity about the practical applications and societal impact of such technology ([34:18]).

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Alford: “If we can get the brain cell, you know, like freaking a chip telling the brain what to do, it's going to be hard to fathom that that will come one day.” ([34:16])
• Chris Hansen: “I think it's going to come in the next five years.” ([35:08])

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Conclusion and Upcoming Highlights

Timestamp: [37:48] - [38:26]

Overview:
Ryan and Chris wrap up the episode by previewing upcoming segments, including a new trading card series featuring notable guests and discussing the vibrant $59 billion industry. They encourage listeners to engage with their content across various platforms and express gratitude for their growing audience.

Key Points:

1. Upcoming Trading Card Series:

   • Introduction of notable guests like Brian Ludden, Gary Vee, Maddie Rich, and Jeremy Eisenberg.
   • Plans for interactive giveaways and exclusive content related to the trading card craze ([35:57]).

2. Engagement and Community Building:

   • Promotion of the Rad Collective and Rad.com for full audio and video content, sponsorship inquiries, and listener interaction.
   • Encouragement to follow on social media platforms for motivational quotes, business tips, and more ([37:48]).

3. Final Thoughts:

   • Emphasis on maintaining a no-BS approach to business news, celebrating real wins, and learning from mistakes.
   • Acknowledgment of the audience’s support in making the show the number one business podcast ([38:26]).

Notable Quotes:

• Ryan Alford: “The other things New York Times lifestyle monetization spotlighted non-news verticals like games, cooking and sports to attract ad dollars.” ([25:10])
• Chris Hansen: “This has been Right about now with Ryan Alford, a Radcast network production.” ([38:26])

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Key Takeaways

• Economic Resilience: The U.S. economy shows signs of strength amidst tariff negotiations, with the stock market rebounding and cryptocurrencies gaining traction.
• Strategic Adaptation: Businesses must proactively prepare for economic uncertainties by realigning supply chains and leveraging technology.
• Media Evolution: The shift from traditional cable to streaming platforms like ESPN signifies a broader transformation in how content is consumed.
• Emerging Markets: The trading card industry’s explosive growth highlights new opportunities in collectibles and personalized consumer experiences.
• Technological Frontiers: Apple’s foray into brain-computer interfaces underscores the rapid advancements in integrating technology with human capabilities.

This episode provides actionable insights for business leaders navigating current economic challenges, embracing technological innovations, and capitalizing on emerging market trends. Ryan Alford and Chris Hansen deliver a comprehensive analysis, blending expert opinions with practical strategies to empower their audience in the dynamic business landscape.

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Subscribe and Stay Informed:
For more in-depth discussions and business strategies, subscribe to Right About Now with Ryan Alford on Apple Podcasts or visit ryanisright.com.

Transcript

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[Chris Hansen]

Right about now with Ryan Alford, a Radcast Network production. We are the number one business show on the planet with over 1 million downloads a month, taking the BS out of business for over 6 years and over 400 episodes. You ready to start snapping necks and cashing checks? Well, it starts right about now.

[Ryan Alford]

What's up guys? Welcome to Right about now here on Friday, May 16. It is your weekly business news with Ryan and Chris Hansen down in Miami. What's up Chris?

[Chris Hansen]

What's up Ryan? How are you bro?

[Ryan Alford]

I'm good. Taking the BS out of business one story at a time. You know, you can pay attention, you know, make yourself go crazy on CNN or Fox all week or you just come to write about now and we break it down to what you really need to care about. You know, like no right, no left. Just straight facts. The the business cycle has been heavily related to the administration this week. Given all of the tariff talk we've been talking about it and finally some actions happen. All the tariffs. This happened after our episode last week. Tariffs are on hold. Deals are being had and I think.

[Chris Hansen]

It'S a good sign, Chris, we're moving the right direction. I'm happy to hear it and I'm happy That if you look at the numbers, it's really a win for us, so.

[Ryan Alford]

Yeah, exactly. Stock market's been rocking and rolling it. It likes the news. We're already surpassed where the downturn was when the terrorist stuff stopped, started, you know, tanking the market a few weeks ago. I think we've met back to the level and gone over and above it. And what really matters is XRP is up on the old crypto.

[Chris Hansen]

Yeah. What's the percentage? You said it was up again.

[Ryan Alford]

It's up 20% the last week.

[Chris Hansen]

Yeah, I think everything for the most part is like 20, at least 15. Up 20. Most fit between all the big, the big players. So I still think it's a great time to invest in the market. There's a lot of Runway to go based on a lot of the crypto experts and their predictions. You know, it should run hopefully through the end of 25, peaking out end of 25, 26. So it's so early, people.

[Ryan Alford]

Pump, pump, pump.

[Chris Hansen]

I, I would say it's early because it's still not all over the news. And Twitter.

[Ryan Alford]

Yeah.

[Chris Hansen]

You know, give it another month or so and then I think every, you know, your dad's gonna ask you how to download Coinbase and invest. Probably.

[Ryan Alford]

Yeah, exactly. That's when, you know, when everybody starts asking about it, when the, what they call it, Main street, the Main street investors start talking about it again and it starts pumping in the news. That's when, that's when you know you're too late. Yeah.

[Chris Hansen]

Yeah, literally. I mean it is, it really is.

[Ryan Alford]

That's why you got to come to this show. We're giving it on the forefront where you need to go the. But we like where the numbers are headed and you know, we're doing a little special on the show now. We're going to be bringing in specialists to talk and give segments on specific topics. That's why we went straight to the source to talk about tariffs. What is the impact of the pause? How should business be thinking about it? Because we're taking the BS out of business. It ain't about the headlines. It's about how you should be reacting as a business. That's why we went to Arjun Singh. He is a best selling author. And let's get to that segment right here. Hey guys, a little special segment here on right about now, our weekly business news. We are trying to take things topical for you guys and look, we're always cutting through the bs. We're trying to get down to what matters for business today right about now that's why we've gone right to the source. He is the author of Competitive Success, Winning Strategies with Corporate War Games, an Amazon bestseller, Forbes top 10 book, business book of 2024. It is. Arjen Singh. What's up, Arjun?

[Arjun Singh]

How you doing? Ryan? Good to see you.

[Ryan Alford]

Good to see you, man. Appreciate you jumping in on this segment on tariffs. I, I, you know, my eyes kind of go start glass glossing over. I'm like, tariff, tariff, tariff, tariff, tariff, tariff up, tear it down, all these things and I can't keep up with it. So I'm glad I could, we could bring you on to tell us what we need to be thinking about. What's, what's the most latest news. Let's, let's maybe break down the headlines of exactly what's happened in the last week, and then we'll key in on some specific opportunities, challenges, threats for business.

[Arjun Singh]

Great. You know, I think you nailed it, right? There's a lot of stuff that's going on in terms of the tariffs. There's been an agreement between the US And China in principle to have, you know, tariffs coming down. The UK has been talking to the US as well. India is also falling in there. So one by one. What's interesting is all the countries are now open to a dialogue after really playing a little bit of a game of chicken to kind of figure out whether it's real or not. So it's, it's coming down now. How quickly it gets revol resolved, we don't know. No one knows. And that's where you have to, as a business owner, prepare for the future. And the whole notion is you, you hope for the best, but you prepare for the, for the worst. And there's a few principles to kind of think about as you start, as you start doing that.

[Ryan Alford]

Yeah, Arjun, I think you nailed it. Prepare for the worst. Hope is not a strategy.

[Arjun Singh]

Hope is not a strategy.

[Ryan Alford]

Someone, I wish I had created that saying, but it's so true. I think about it all the time because some people will just kind of hope, oh, it'll all work out. Well, it might, but you need to prepare. And that's what we're trying to do, trying to make action items here from the show. I mean, let me ask you this, Sergeant, in your, in your opinion and understanding this probably at a deeper level than me and probably even a lot of our listeners, ultimately, who we, I think we've said on the show, tariff wars aren't good for anyone. It's a strategy. Like it, love it or hate it, by the current administration. It's a strategy that's proving to be somewhat effective. We'll see where it lands. The jury is out on all of that for the long haul. But again, you can't argue that it's brought people to the table. But ultimately, in that game of chicken, is the US in a power position?

[Arjun Singh]

You know, the US Is if you look at the global economy, I mean, the US is the largest economy in the world. It has the largest influence in so many different business spaces. Right. So you're talking about oil and gas, aviation, technology. Right. It is the leader there. And for countries to ignore the United States, it's a death wish for them. So they do have to negotiate. The question is how quickly are they looking to get a deal. I mean, there's already evidence that's coming out that, you know, shipping from China has been in the decline the last few weeks. Production as well. There's been a lot of COVID ups in terms of, you know, how idle the actual production facilities is. And China is not the only one. There's other players that have a lot at stake there. So what the United States decides has a significant impact on the global economy.

[Ryan Alford]

It seems like, you know, for better or worse, I. It's really trying to keep all the political slant out of this, to keep it really like just pointed towards the impact it does peripherally feel from an independent. You know, I think if you watch my show, you can tell Riley at times on policy, but as an independent, it has felt the last four years, five years, I mean, that the America. I'm not saying we need to be arrogant, we don't need to be arrogant, but we do need to be acknowledged for our place in the global economy. And at times it feels like we've sort of, ah, you know, we're just little America ready to play nice, you know, and that's great and all, but I do like that it feels like we're trying to take our proper seat in the pecking order.

[Chris Hansen]

Yeah.

[Arjun Singh]

You know, I think, I think the word is acknowledged our place. Right. And also to be able to be able to have the influence that we have so far. Right, yeah. You know, the United States has a huge influence on the global economy. It's been in a certain structure so far and you know, just to be able to push that agenda forward is. Is something that the administration's doing. Ultimately, depending on where it nets out, it's going to have a huge impact on the country. I mean, if you look at the news from last night, right, with the High level trip to the Middle East. There's already trillions and not even with a B, we're talking with a T. Right. Trillions of dollars of implications to US businesses in terms of aviation, defense contracts and other pledges that Saudi Arabia and some of the other countries have done. And you know, that in my mind is just the starting point. I think, I think it's only going to accelerate from this point onwards because as the world starts seeing the deals that the US is doing with China, with India, with the Middle east, with the uk, I mean others are going to start following.

[Ryan Alford]

Yeah, I mean it is a little bit of a breath of fresh air that we are. You know, some people don't like the going at government, like business. But I'm, but it is business. I mean it isn't it Arjun, I mean isn't. This is a business at the highest level.

[Arjun Singh]

It is. And you know, like it's interesting like, and there's certain countries that actually view it that way. Right. So I've done a lot of work in Singapore, I've done work in Dubai as, as well you go talk to the government there, it's like walking into a business. You know, the Singaporean government offices, they look like a world class business. They sit down, they negotiate, they, they strike a deal and then they move on. Right. And, and I think we can take a lot of cues from like these different countries out there. Yeah, it is exactly like a business and it should be run like that.

[Ryan Alford]

Yeah. All right, let's talk action. How should businesses be preparing? We've got a 90 day, kind of whatever you want to call it, pause, set, you know, set, set it to the side. Let's all be nice, let's figure it out for the long term. I want to talk about you. You know, I know you probably don't like to predict, but I'm going to ask you to predict in a minute. But for now, what should businesses be doing with what's happening?

[Arjun Singh]

You know, I think any prudent business at this point, recognizing you've got about 90 days to figure or less to figure this out, you should be doing more gaming, which is what my book's about, you know, so you, you, you basically role play different stakeholders in the marketplace, you do scenario planning as well. So I'll give you examples. Right. So you know, for, for a lot of companies and businesses that are doing products, right, you've got supply chains, you got to think about supply chains realignment, like where do you start sourcing products from? Apple has already been Proactive. And they're shifting all their production of iPhones from China to India, recognizing what's going on. You know, I think that's step one is to really look at your operations and look at where you may be the most exposed and build a plan B, a plan C, a plan D. Right. So what if this happens, you know, and work through scenarios such as, like, hey, what if our supply chains are suddenly, you know, impacted by 100% tariffs or more? What do we do? Where do we kind of move our production to? How quickly can we do that? Right. And then it kind of gets into other issues. You've got pricing and profit margin erosion. Right. So there's an element that's, that's there. You know, what if there are retaliatory tariffs or export challenges that you, that you have and then ultimately, you know, that will cascade down into workforce, like, how does this affect, you know, your workforce? And, and I think one of the big other issues to really think about is okay, what would you do from a cost pass through perspective? Right. So if you do end up with tariffs on your production, how do you pass those costs to your customers? Or do you not. And do you blame the tariffs or not? There's already been some backlash. I think Amazon had some plans and others as well are talking about a tariff fee as well. I think there's a multitude of dimensions to explore for businesses. I think this is the time to do it. Look at those varieties that are there, war game the situation, and build a plan for situations that may occur which we don't know if they will or not.

[Ryan Alford]

Yeah, I mean, if, if you're, if you're. Someone's listening, Arjun, and maybe they don't sell product and it's not as obvious of a, oh, these terrorists impact me or don't. They're. I'm not worried about tariffs like that. You know, tell me, tell me how, what you would tell that business person about how they should be thinking about this or should they be so flippant that it's not going to impact them?

[Arjun Singh]

Oh, you know what, even if you're, if you're not directly impacted by the tariffs, you will be indirectly. And that's the part to really, really think about now. You know, the tariffs could actually be a positive for a lot of businesses as well. Right. So it's not all negative as well. So when this realignment happens, it may open up opportunities for exporting to certain, certain areas, certain components might become a lot cheaper. You know, So a lot of companies, if you're getting components from your local distributors, they might be getting it from somewhere else. Right. So it has indirect effects on there and that's part of the whole process of understanding what that would look like. Right. So what's your best case, what's your worst case, what's your base case? It's going to have an effect and some of it actually I think will be a positive for everyone.

[Ryan Alford]

Do you think this will bring back manufacturing to the US ultimately? Is that genie? Can that genie go back in the bottle?

[Arjun Singh]

You know, I think, I think it will, but I think it's going to be in a very different form to what manufacturing was previously. Right. So low value manufacturing in the last few decades went offshore. Right. Because then the US focused on other things. I think there'll be an element of a lot more meat in the usa, I think. But the way that it's going to be done is going to be different. You know, it may be automated, there may be a huge element of technology and AI and you know, that's, that's an area where the US is at the forefront. US technology is unsurpassed by anyone. Right. And so when you start looking at automated manufacturing, right. So you know, in the traditional factory 40 years ago, if you had to produce something and you needed a hundred workers, you may only need five now, but it's five American jobs in, in conjunction with technology. And guess what, that technology is coming from the US as well. And, and you know, so it kind of cascades down into not only just one operation but a multitude of these operations.

[Ryan Alford]

I love it. Great insight there, especially on the automation and AI that is having a tremendous impact and anyone that's not keeping their eyes wide open with that has got their head in the sand. Another story for another day. But talk to me as we finish up here, Arjun, like about predictions, you know, or what, what are the tea leaves telling you how this will play out as best, you know, how no one's going to go back and play your video and go, oh you, you didn't know, you know, some unforeseen thing. But, and I know how the, I know how the product gnostication game works better work for me and against me. But talk to me about how you see this playing out.

[Arjun Singh]

Well, you know, if the stock market from yesterday and day before is any indication. Right. I think there's going to be bright times ahead. One scenario is that the US starts having these tariff negotiations very quickly and then they're concluded very quickly. So you'll start seeing rebalancing in terms of trade and those different pieces and you'll start having stability very, very quickly. I think that's one kind of area. I think the other one is that it may drag on with certain countries a little bit longer than others. And that's going to be a rebalancing in terms of the United States dealing with those, those countries or not. Right. But I think at the end of the day, you know, when you, if you look at the bargaining chips, they're really on the United States side. Right. In terms of resources, capital, access to the United States market. Right. All those, those different pieces. For any country to ignore that it's, it's going to be a huge, huge issue there. Right. So I think it's, it's a case of like whether it gets quickly resolved or a little bit, it drags on for a little bit longer. That's the little bit of an unknown. But I do, I do see these things settling down in the next couple of months.

[Ryan Alford]

I'm gonna ask you a question that will strike from the record and not air if it's out of your knowledge base because it's completely random. But it just made me think of it because, you know, thinking about China and stuff.

[Chris Hansen]

Yeah.

[Ryan Alford]

Is what's gonna happen with Tick Tock any perspective there?

[Arjun Singh]

Oh, the United states, I mean TikTok has, has very valuable technology. Right.

[Ryan Alford]

So if you look at, but it's ultimately they're going to have to sell. Is that, is that, is that gonna have to happen? I mean it, he's kind of drawn the line in the sand. They've extended it a couple times. It's like, you know.

[Arjun Singh]

Yeah, I think, I think that's, that's one thing like both parties in the United States agree on that. The, the Chinese control has to go away. So to survive in the United States, they're going to have to sell now what form it takes, you know, with different people trying to take it on. Amazon was interested in others as well. I mean they've got a valuable algorithm that's very sticky with consumers. If they want to freedom to operate in the United States, they will have to sell.

[Ryan Alford]

Yeah, I think you're right. I don't think Donald's gonna back off that ultimately and I don't think we should, you know, and it's too much data, but they do have a great product. That algorithm is crazy for knowing what we're thinking. We want to watch at all times. I have to stay away from that rabbit hole sometimes. Arjun, he is the author of competitive success, winning strategies with corporate war games. You need to go check that out. You can buy that on Amazon. Is that right Arjun?

[Arjun Singh]

That's right.

[Ryan Alford]

Where else can people keep up with everything that you're doing, learn more about you etc?

[Arjun Singh]

Just check me out on LinkedIn. It's very easy to find. Just search for Argent Singh. You'll find there. Follow me, add me on LinkedIn and that's where you'll see a lot of my, my updates there.

[Ryan Alford]

Great. Thank you so much for coming on the show, Ryan.

[Arjun Singh]

Thank you. It's a pleasure to be here.

[Ryan Alford]

Hey guys, we're keeping it real with you. Real raw always to BS out of the business here. Thanks to Arjun for coming on the show. We really appreciate Arjun for coming on. Breaking down the tariffs, what it means for business, how you should be responding and look like we said, hope is not a strategy. You need to be game planning different scenarios because it will have an impact. But we like where it's headed. The news is positive which is what we like Chris. We're keeping it. Hey, we're going to be real about it but we're not going to go, you know, down in the dumps on every single story because most of this is positive news. We've been telling you to hold on and stop watching the day trades every single, every single day Article insight that's so doom and gloomy and slanted. But a few announcements on the marketing and digital front from the digital advertisers. New fronts which is essentially where people align their budgets to like available media. Like they did this in newspaper a long time ago. It's, it's an old thing but basically where digital media platforms pitch new content and add tech to platforms and also where they'll get commitments on budgets from some of the bigger brands. Some of the highlights, Yahoo Sports announced a network with Rich Kleiman to announce to anchor a push into premium sports storytelling emphasizing a combination of original video content with automated ad buying tools. You're going to start to see this, the proliferation of automation, speed, creative, all these things are changing fast. Ability to have personalized content within the ads to make it change fast to get high level impressions. Personalize which is new. Snap has new ad tools, sponsored snaps in chat, promoted places and AI smart campaigns. And it's interesting when they said this Chris, I thought about this, how easy it would be and I thought this idea I was thinking like for the Radcast network. I'm always thinking hey we're a publisher too. So we're like thinking you Know, how can we help our advertisers and help ourselves? We're getting impressions, how we do it. You know, like when you post a story, obviously you could post a story where it's, you know, you're promoting a product. Right. You know, sponsored story, where content. But what if just that vertical screen, the lower third had an ad on it, you know, it's your content, Chris, working out. But the lower third was like a dynamic ad, you know, that's coming. And if, if it's not Instagram, I just gave you a billion dollar idea. But, you know, sponsored stories that aren't like the entire story, it's still your content, but they're kind of. They're getting a little eye candy, getting some awareness on there. I think that that's not as, I don't know, as annoying as certain things might be. You know, like, you're still getting your original content for three fourths of it. You'd be willing to get paid for that, wouldn't you?

[Chris Hansen]

I'd do it. Yeah. From the gym. I don't care if part of the bottom banner is a company's logo. Like, fine, if I'm wearing their clothes or whatever. Like, yeah, it's probably to some people that's more appealing than talking, you know.

[Ryan Alford]

Like, yeah, like, I would think that's less intrusive than if you're like promoting.

[Chris Hansen]

Hey, feel these stretchy shorts. These are the best workout shorts. Or if I'm just cool. Everyone's different, right? Some people gravitate to that. Some people want a cool song and a good workout and they'll buy from that, you know?

[Ryan Alford]

Yeah, but you could totally see that coming. Dynamic ads on the story content itself. I could actually see him doing that and not sharing it with you. Or I like our, with the, you know, like, hey, you're using our platform for free. Your stories are going to have little banners on them. You can't really say much if they decided to do that. So maybe we need to create that first. Chris, we should sell that for Vibe Science. Every little placement, you can get your banner on there. Look, hey, Chris and I run multiple business. We brainstorm business here on the show. That is real. No BS business talk. I like it. Get a little logo placement anywhere on Ryan or Chris's feeds.

[Chris Hansen]

Hit me up.

[Ryan Alford]

Yeah, exactly. Got all kinds of new brands. And I'm serious. Hey, look, Chris and I are as raw to real as it gets. We're in multiple companies. Chris has one of the most amazing tech combined with doctors and laboratories. Like, he's got it all. And look, we do multiple shows. So again we'd love to partner with you on any of our programming. So keep that in mind. The other things New York Times lifestyle monetization spotlighted non news verticals like games, cooking and sports to attract ad dollars. New York Times games boasts daily users surpassing White Lotus finale viewership, whatever that means. I mean, I know what White Lotus is, the show.

[Chris Hansen]

But it's a weird way to compare numbers.

[Ryan Alford]

No, I'm like to make it like.

[Chris Hansen]

Sound big but without actually stating any numbers.

[Ryan Alford]

That's what I'm thinking.

[Chris Hansen]

Everyone's like white Lotus. We know that must have been big.

[Ryan Alford]

Yeah, must have been big. This sounds like a way that New York Times just want to get in this ad, but I'm not really hearing much innovation. So yeah, AI driven ad planning everywhere signals a shift towards faster, smarter campaign execution. Yes, hopefully we'll see about that. So lots of digital fronts, I mean related to that. I'm going to get to this because it's kind of, it's semi related. We're talking platforms and things. ESPN officially announced its new flagship streaming service, simply named espn. I like it, man, I like it. It kind of rolls.

[Chris Hansen]

You know, they're forward looking, they're like, hey, TV's dead. This is the new SPN. Let's not confuse people.

[Ryan Alford]

Yeah, okay.

[Chris Hansen]

How many times has HBO plus rename themselves? I don't even know what it's called now. It was like HBO Go, HBO plus.

[Ryan Alford]

They had been calling themselves the new flagship. So now it's. There's power in our name and there's trust in our name. Yeah, you didn't need to change it. It's the sports network. Yeah, we get it. There's gonna be two subscription tiers. Unlimited plan 29.99amonth or 45.99 bundled with Disney plus and Hulu select plan is 11.99. It's mirroring the current ESPN plus content. So less content. But Chris, this is the future. You know, cable is slowly like, you know the, the Wicked Witch from the. Is it the west or the East? I can't remember the one that's the West. The West. The Wicked Witch from the West. I'm melting. I'm melting. This is cable. Like the swan song is violins playing. Like literally because you start stripping out the content that you want from cable because Cable's built on 400 channels, 390, you don't watch. And now these streaming platforms, apps, whatever you want to call it, where you watch the Content and you beam it where you want. Where it's your tv, your phone, your tablet, and this is where it's going. And all of ESPN Continents will be there. It's, it's coming fast and I, I'm here for it. Though I'm not sure it's going to be as cheap as cable is. You know, once you add up the five things you want, you're paying 200. Probably.

[Chris Hansen]

Yep. But just like Spirit Airlines.

[Ryan Alford]

For the seat belt 54, you might want to get that one we'd recommend. We recommend the seat belt.

[Chris Hansen]

Yeah. Ends up being the same at the end of the day that it would have been. United Airlines or whatever else you fly.

[Ryan Alford]

You know, 14.99 for the oxygen mask. It's rare that you would need it, but if you do, you might want to plan ahead. It's coming to that, you know, like literally in the middle of like a diving plane. It's gonna be a button where you have to put your fingerprint to charge your credit card for an air bask or something. Flotation device 14.99. I'm dying. Gotta get it.

[Chris Hansen]

Yeah.

[Ryan Alford]

Hey, gotta charge for that, you know. Hate the player, hate the game. Increase college football and UFO games will be on the platform. The move positions Disney, which owns ESPN to compete with Netflix, Prom sports and Max in the sports streaming space. Comes as Disney adapts to cord cutting trends impacting traditional tv. Yeah, it is cord cutting. I haven't heard that in a while. Cord cut a long time ago. Umbilical cord. You can now book a chef or personal trader while traveling with Airbnb. I like this. Sounds bougie. Airbnb has redesigned its app to further its goal of becoming an end to end travel app. The redesign introduces a new Airb services section where users can book chefs, personal trainers, masseuses, photographers, hair and makeup artists and clowns. I made up that last one, but.

[Chris Hansen]

I'm sure it'll be on there.

[Ryan Alford]

You know, anything you want, anything at all here on the Airbnb app. I'm the voice there services app. Services are available in 10 categories. The launch in 100 cities. The move could better compete with hotels and all their traveling platforms like a speed. I mean this is, this is a no brainer, right? I mean natural fit, totally integrated in with your experience. I want a personal, you know, chef that does turn down service and feeds me bon bonds.

[Chris Hansen]

Leaves them on the pillow for you.

[Ryan Alford]

Yeah, yeah, exactly. I want those mints on my pillow at night. Said they've had slower booking growth. This Month at Airbnb has dealt with lawsuits and government restrictions. Stocks down 10 every year. Every year. Well, maybe this will give them a little pep in their step. Gotta add those add ons. I need that masseuse. I need that chef.

[Chris Hansen]

Yeah.

[Ryan Alford]

Hopefully affordable makes sense.

[Chris Hansen]

I could see it. I mean, I. Buddy last week told me he Airbnb a house on the beach and he wanted. He literally was talking about wanting a chef so I could see people take use of this. I'm somewhere hotel guy myself.

[Ryan Alford]

Yeah, a lot of convenience for the hotel. But I will say doing themed, like, you know, adding a little. Hey, coming down for a party. Well, okay, we got your dinner. We're gonna do birthday cake. Like everything to do for the. For whatever that event or the reason. I mean, people travel usually for a reason. I mean, if it's a business trip, fine, then have business. Like, okay, a massage when you get in from your airplane. Travel then, like have themed specific outings and tie the services to that. So hopefully they're going to think through all that. Pope Leo trading card sets Tops now record, we had a Pope trading card. It's a little foreshadowing to. If you're watching the YouTube, which you should be, you see the plethora of trading card paraphernalia and otherwise here on the set, right about in these lovely hats from Ludox. Ryan Ludden, Ludox Sentos. Great guy, great app. We'll talk about that in a minute. But Pope Leo sold 133,000 copies of a trading card that they printed kind of on demand, I think, with Tops now. I mean, I guess there is a trading card for everything. I actually have my own personal trading card, Chris, right there. You probably can't quite see that, but.

[Chris Hansen]

It'S gotta zoom in on that.

[Ryan Alford]

The downtown. But the Pope. I don't know if I want a Pope trading card, but I'm not Catholic either, so I don't know. It's. But not surprising. It's more pointing to the trend that we all know that people like those collectibles. They like the physical nature of it. Yes, Tangible. I like that name. I like the word tangible. It's tangible. Exactly. You can feel it. You count it. You can smell it. They've got a white smoke variant is the most expensive one. Sold for $195. They got so many variants of these things. The Leaf trading cards also released Pope leo cards at $9.99 with themed backgrounds. This is interesting, Chris. Here's the theme backgrounds for the Pope Leo cards. Deep dish Pizza Chicago. Hot dog, snow and skyline views.

[Chris Hansen]

How, how Chicago of them.

[Ryan Alford]

What's that?

[Chris Hansen]

So Chicago of them.

[Ryan Alford]

I know so. Yeah, nothing like the Pope with a deep dish pizza background. I'm in. Hey, there's a collectible for everyone that, that's the one thing you're going to get out of this series. There's a trading card for everyone. Finally today, Apple to support brain implant control of its devices. Apple is entering the brain computer interface space. Aiming to let users control iPhones and other devices using neural signals. The tech could transform accessibility for people with spinal cord injuries or als who cannot use their hands. Apple's prepared for a future where FDA approved implants like Elon Musk, Neural Link or others become widely available. I mean this is cool and it's crazy. I, I, I have a hard time believing that we aren't going to somehow heal quadriplegics or something with this. If we can get the brain cell, you know, like freaking a chip telling the brain what to do, it's going to be hard, it's hard not to fathom that that will, that will come one day.

[Chris Hansen]

I think it's going to come in the next five years.

[Ryan Alford]

Yeah. It seems like we're right on the precipice of it and this is where you know, like love or hate. Elon Musk. He's right in the center of a lot of key things going to space, this next frontier, which is space Neural link, the brain connection to healing and doing these different things. Electric cars and batteries that are, have gotten better and all. Again, he's there right in the middle of it all and he's over in Saudi Arabia selling to robots. Optimus Prime. Yeah. It's so funny. He absolutely grew up like when I did in the age I did, he used all these terms that are kind of like quasi back in the day, the Transformers, Optimus. Optimus Robot. It's not coming for any jobs.

[Chris Hansen]

Yeah, right.

[Ryan Alford]

And you got the taxi driving around. You saw them again this week, didn't you?

[Chris Hansen]

They're everywhere. Like I probably see 10 a day.

[Ryan Alford]

They're self driving, right?

[Chris Hansen]

No, they're rolling around with guys in them with laptops. Like they're still probably working out the kinks, you know, before they.

[Ryan Alford]

I bet. Well, they're probably remote controlling it from right there or it might be they're.

[Chris Hansen]

Sitting because I've seen like I've been watching my dog and there's sensors all over it and it's almost like when I've kind of been close to the road I can almost see it, like break, but it's not like it's a human. It's like a very awkward, like subtle, you know, jerky movement kind of.

[Ryan Alford]

Yep.

[Chris Hansen]

But yeah, man, they're everywhere, bro. The robots are coming.

[Ryan Alford]

They're coming.

[Arjun Singh]

Tom.

[Ryan Alford]

I'll tell you what's coming next week. Starting on Tuesday, the trading card series is here. Our first guest, Brian Ludden. He is the CEO of LudX, the best app for scanning your card, getting the values and keeping up with your collection. Go check that on the app store. We've got the goodies here. We got a big lineup. Gary Vee's coming on next week. He's going to be part of the series. Talking about V Friends. The Gary Vee. Yes. We got the biggest seller retailer in South Carolina coming on, my friend Maddie Rich. And then we've got Jeremy Eisenberg, who is an SI contributor and just a sports guru, marketing badass and some heavy hitters. Some Netflix special guys. We've got some big names coming. They all want to get in on this trading card series because once you're in, it's hard to get out and start. Get that pack fever, man. We got it right here. All this stuff. We're gonna do some giveaways. We're gonna have fun. And again, got the Rad Collective started breaking rad.com go check that out. It's got all of my kids stuff, all their cards. We're gonna be on ESPN. Not ESPN, excuse me, eBay. Live in about 30 days doing breaks and different things like that. So it's going to be a fun series. It's the business is legit. It's $59 billion industry by 20. 27. 59 billion. This is serious business. Serious business. And again, the Pope's got a trading card, you know, then you need a trading card. Everybody should have their own trading card. Chris, we're going to get the Hanson special. Let's get it 101 on one autograph, vertical, white smoke, pizza dish, background, all the favorites. Chris, any final thoughts today?

[Chris Hansen]

Everyone have a great weekend. Stay hydrated. It's getting hot out there.

[Ryan Alford]

Yeah, it is. It is getting hot. Getting hot in here. Getting hot on the real American business show that is right about now. Go to ryanisright.com, find the highlight clips, all the links to the trading card series highlights. Anything and everything that we talk about on the show is there. Ryan is right. Chris Broby Hansen is on Instagram. Go check it out. Motivational quotes, business tips, anything you need. Chris has got it for you. We appreciate him, as always, as a contributor to this show, and we appreciate you for making us number one. We'll see you next time. Right about now.

[Chris Hansen]

This has been Right about now with Ryan Alford, a Radcast network production. Visit ryanisright.com for full audio and video versions of the show or to inquire about sponsorship opportunities. Thanks for listening.