The MeidasTouch Podcast: "Trump SERVED with CEASE AND DESIST he didn’t SEE COMING" – Detailed Summary

Release Date: November 27, 2024

Introduction

In the latest episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast, the Meiselas brothers delve into a critical and timely issue involving former President Donald Trump. Hosted by Ben, Brett, and Jordy Meiselas, the episode titled "Trump SERVED with CEASE AND DESIST he didn’t SEE COMING" offers a sharp analysis of Trump’s recent business maneuvers and their broader implications for American democracy.

Trump’s Unauthorized Use of Gibson’s Trademarked Guitar Design

Cease and Desist from Gibson Guitar Company

At [01:04], Ben Mylesius initiates the discussion by highlighting a significant legal development: the Gibson Guitar Company has issued a cease and desist letter to Donald Trump and his associated corporations. This action stems from Trump's announcement of "Trump Guitars" being sold through his website, trumpguitars.com.

Ben Mylesius [01:30]: "Donald Trump is holding what looks to be a Gibson guitar, not his own unique guitar, and Gibson owns that design."

Ben explains that Trump’s guitars bear a striking resemblance to Gibson’s Les Paul models, which are protected by trademark and patent laws. The similarity has prompted Gibson to protect its intellectual property rigorously.

Implications of Trademark Infringement

Ben elaborates on the legal obligations of trademark holders, emphasizing that Gibson must defend its trademark to prevent other companies from exploiting their designs.

Ben Mylesius [03:15]: "When you control a trademark, you have to defend your mark. You have no choice because Gibson is involved in litigation with lots of other people who try to steal its trademarks."

He underscores that failing to act against infringement could lead to broader issues, allowing others to capitalize on Gibson's designs without repercussions.

Critique of Trump’s Business Ventures and Practices

Questionable Product Authenticity and Quality

Transitioning seamlessly, Ben pivots to a broader critique of Trump's various product lines, including watches, sneakers, and figurines. He questions the authenticity and quality of these products, suggesting they are more about profit-grabbing than delivering genuine value.

Ben Mylesius [07:25]: "Can we not saddle us with trillions of dollars in debt that Donald Trump is already setting the groundwork for. Can we not do bloody mass deportations and send the freaking United States military through the streets... Or, or should we just sell NFTs? Should we just sell $100,000 watches?"

Ben expresses frustration over the juxtaposition of Trump's policy decisions and his entrepreneurial ventures, implying a dissonance between his political actions and business ethics.

Use of AI and Potential for Scams

He also points out the use of AI in creating product images, which raises concerns about the actual delivery and quality of the items being sold. The reliance on AI-generated designs suggests that the products may not meet consumers’ expectations, leading to potential scams.

Ben Mylesius [04:10]: "It's just more photos of him signing the guitars. Right here you have Melania selling Melania figurines... $99.99 for this little tiny figurine."

Broader Implications for American Democracy

Economic Policies and Consumer Impact

Ben connects Trump's business practices to his economic policies, particularly tariffs, which have tangible effects on American consumers by driving up prices.

Ben Mylesius [10:50]: "You're charging American companies a tax which the American companies pass on to consumers. That's why Walmart and all the American companies say the American consumer prices are going up, up, up, up because of Trump tariffs."

He criticizes the inefficacy of Trump's tariff strategies, arguing that they harm the very people they intend to protect.

Undermining Democratic Symbols for Profit

Furthering his critique, Ben laments the commercialization of democratic symbols, such as Melania selling figurines featuring the Statue of Liberty, which he views as both disrespectful and opportunistic.

Ben Mylesius [12:30]: "She's using the symbols of our democracy to make money off of it. This is for $175. It's gold plated stainless steel. She wants $175 for it."

Conclusion and Call to Action

Wrapping up the episode, Ben calls on listeners to remain vigilant and prioritize integrity and values over superficial symbols and overpriced merchandise. He urges the audience to support genuine democratic efforts and dismiss the gimmicky and potentially harmful business ventures promoted by Trump.

Ben Mylesius [14:40]: "We're gonna call this stuff out together. We're gonna get through it. We're gonna look back at this together and we're gonna say, what? What the hell was that? But we'll get through it. I promise you."

Ben concludes with an empowering message, encouraging listeners to subscribe, stay informed, and participate actively in safeguarding democracy.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Ben Mylesius [01:30]: "Donald Trump is holding what looks to be a Gibson guitar, not his own unique guitar, and Gibson owns that design."

• Ben Mylesius [03:15]: "When you control a trademark, you have to defend your mark. You have no choice because Gibson is involved in litigation with lots of other people who try to steal its trademarks."

• Ben Mylesius [07:25]: "Can we not saddle us with trillions of dollars in debt that Donald Trump is already setting the groundwork for. Can we not do bloody mass deportations and send the freaking United States military through the streets... Or, or should we just sell NFTs? Should we just sell $100,000 watches?"

• Ben Mylesius [10:50]: "You're charging American companies a tax which the American companies pass on to consumers. That's why Walmart and all the American companies say the American consumer prices are going up, up, up, up because of Trump tariffs."

• Ben Mylesius [12:30]: "She's using the symbols of our democracy to make money off of it. This is for $175. It's gold plated stainless steel. She wants $175 for it."

• Ben Mylesius [14:40]: "We're gonna call this stuff out together. We're gonna get through it. We're gonna look back at this together and we're gonna say, what? What the hell was that? But we'll get through it. I promise you."

Final Thoughts

This episode of The MeidasTouch Podcast offers a robust critique of Donald Trump's recent business activities and their intersection with his political influence. Through incisive analysis and impassioned commentary, the Meiselas brothers shed light on issues of intellectual property infringement, questionable business ethics, and the potential ramifications for American democracy. Listeners are encouraged to remain informed and actively challenge policies and practices that undermine democratic values and economic stability.

For more insightful discussions and updates on pro-democracy initiatives, tune in to The MeidasTouch Podcast every Tuesday and Friday morning, and catch the brothers live on their YouTube channel every Monday and Thursday night at 8 PM ET/5 PM PT.