PPPPacked Playbook: Streaming Giants & Sleepy Science (Four Ps #230)
Getting More Sleep, More Sports, More Books, and More Worried
While others will wish you a Happy Valentine’s Day today, just remember that no one really loves you like I do.
And while I thought about recycling last year’s V-Day post highlighting things I love, we’re going to skip the fluff this time because we’ve got bigger topics to shoot your way like an arrow through the heart:
PROFESSIONAL: New Triad of Streaming Sports Media
PERSONAL: Sleepless Strategies for Shut-Eye Salvation
PRACTICAL: Bringing the Sexy Back. To Libraries.
POLITICAL: Age, AI, and Allegiances: All Ayes on the Election
THE PROFESSIONAL: New Triad of Streaming Sports Media
The most notable sports news emerging from Vegas during Super Bowl Week wasn't related to the game itself, or even to Taylor Swift. In an unexpected development that has captivated the sports and media industries, ESPN, Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery have collaborated to introduce a new sports streaming service. This partnership, a surprise to many, has sparked widespread curiosity and speculation, particularly because professional sports leagues, including the NFL and NBA, were only informed shortly before the public announcement.
This joint venture was kept secret until its unveiling, promising to revolutionize how fans interact with their favorite sports. This collaboration, unlike the usual media deal process that often leaks information, was managed discreetly, leaving details of the service provided somewhat vague. Sports enthusiasts are particularly concerned about whether this new platform will replicate the easy channel-switching experience they enjoy with cable television, given the absence of Regional Sports Networks (RSNs).
Backed by media powerhouses such as Walt Disney Co., Fox, and Warner Bros. Discovery, this streaming service is poised to become a significant force in sports broadcasting. However, the decision not to consult major sports leagues—the primary content providers for the service—prior to the announcement introduces uncertainty about the future dynamics between these organizations. As information about this joint venture continues to emerge, there's ongoing speculation about whether it represents just another bundled service or heralds a new era in sports media consumption. Time will reveal the impact, but it's clear that sports fans are looking for a flexible and comprehensive alternative to traditional cable services.
Being physically present amidst the aftermath with executives from these networks, as well as senior marketing leaders from the NFL, NBA, and other leagues, offered a unique insight into the situation. The atmosphere was intriguing and somewhat awkward. At one dinner, I found myself introducing top media executives from Warner and ESPN, who immediately delved into discussions about media reciprocity, cross-promotion, and talent leveraging. The outcomes of such conversations remain to be seen, but they underscore the unpredictable nature of this venture.
THE PERSONAL: Sleepless Strategies for Shut-Eye Salvation
The connection between health and sleep is not really open for debate. Inadequate sleep leads to increased risks of heart disease, strokes, and even the common cold, paints a clear picture: sleep is not optional; it's foundational.
Yet for far too many, challenges with sleep keep us awake at night. Personally, my battle with sleep has intensified. My naturally restless brain is now compounded by the thrill and demands of nurturing early-stage companies, leaving me facing an endless pile of tasks. Sure, I'm organized. Sure, I stopped drinking alcohol years ago. I even attempt to hit the hay by 9 p.m. most nights, mimicking the "cool" 20-somethings.
In Last Vegas last week, I was asleep by midnight every night, but then up a few times throughout the night, and awake for good by 5 a.m. every morning. The cigarette smoke in the casinos, overly-fragrant smells in the room, and the awareness that the East Coast was already moving ahead with its day didn't help. Neither did a sleepless redeye home on Saturday.
Yet despite repeated advice on maintaining a consistent sleep schedule from a range of doctors — from my G.P. to my sinus specialist to my cardiologist — none have provided a straightforward strategy or actionable framework for reclaiming control over my sleep. It's a negative feedback loop: stress creates bad sleep patterns, which breeds unhealthy cycles, which creates anxiety, and so on.
Previously, writing about my issues offered some relief, but it's clear that writing therapy won't send me to dreamland (though this blog might bore you to sleep). Instead, I've turned to reading about sleep solutions. Understanding the difference between sleepiness and fatigue was enlightening, revealing a complex array of sleep problems and their roots. Recognizing that while fatigue could arise from various health conditions, sleepiness is directly linked to sleep quantity and quality has helped refine my approach to overcoming my sleep issues.
Discovering that our sleep cycles, including light, deep, and REM stages, are closely connected to our well-being, and learning about our internal clocks' natural rhythms was not really a revelation. But it was enlightening to learn that syncing with these rhythms through natural light exposure and consistent sleep patterns is crucial for restorative sleep. This is often referred to as sleep hygiene. Implementing simple yet impactful changes, from reducing light exposure (like iPhone screens or keeping devices bedside) to establishing a bedtime routine, can significantly influence our sleep quality. These reminders show that change often starts with our daily decisions and habits.
Addressing insomnia with a lens of understanding rather than frustration has shifted my perspective from one of helplessness to one of proactive engagement. Recognizing that insomnia is more about the quality of sleep than the inability to sleep has paved the way for a more compassionate and targeted approach to improving my sleep experience. But single biggest area on which I need to focus goes back to my original point about stress and time management:
It's probably not helping that on top of my primary job, this newsletter is a biweekly labor of love, I've committed to post daily on social media, and Season 2 of the Snarketing Podcast is now back.
Not much time left to focus on improving my time management, is there?
I get it. I know this is important. The quest for better sleep is an active commitment, not merely through reading, writing, or contemplation. It's a series of intentional steps guided by research, enforced by self-discipline, and a deeper prioritization of my physical and mental health. It's a path I know I need to prioritize, but now armed with the knowledge that the stakes are high, I'm hopeful that the rewards—improved health, vitality, and well-being—are within reach.
THE PRACTICAL: Bringing the Sexy Back. To Libraries.
Ever since my kids were born, we've taken advantage of the treasure that is our local library. We've had books out on loan for most of the past decade, and I love it. Being around books just makes me feel good about the creative output of humanity.
Look at me, leading the way! And guess who else is leading the way? Gen Z is also changing the perception and utilization of public libraries, transforming these spaces from quiet sanctuaries of reading into vibrant social hubs of culture and connectivity. With a keen sense of style and social media savvy, kids these days are not only frequenting libraries for their resources but also for the unique aesthetic and community they offer.
This shift is highlighted by the increased use of libraries by Gen Z and millennials, as reported by the American Library Association, emphasizing that libraries are now seen as much more than just places to read. They are community centers where young people can meet, create, and share in a variety of activities, from gaming to music production, amidst the backdrop of traditional and digital learning resources.
Libraries are also becoming cool again, thanks in large part to Gen Z's engagement with these spaces on social media platforms like TikTok, where library aesthetics and book recommendations can garner millions of views. This online enthusiasm translates into real-world action, with library visits and participation in library events on the rise among young people.
Whether it's for the physical beauty of the books, the charm of the architecture, or the allure of a quiet place to study and socialize, Gen Z is finding value in the library experience that goes beyond the digital realm. The trend extends to innovative social gatherings like reading parties in bars, showing that the love for reading and communal spaces is expanding beyond the library walls.
Amidst challenges such as budget cuts and attempts to limit access to materials, Gen Z's rekindled interest in libraries stands as a beacon of hope for these vital public institutions. Their advocacy and patronage could play a crucial role in preserving libraries as inclusive, dynamic spaces that offer something for everyone.
THE PROMOTIONAL:
The Snarketing Podcast is Back! 🚀 Our first guest is Katie Castillo-Wilson, who jumps right into the world of tech startups, marketing genius, and the power of resilience. 💼📲 A must-listen episode with the CEO and Co-Founder of TapOnIt.
THE POLITICAL: Age, AI, and Allegiances: All Ayes on the Election
With the special Congressional election in my NY-3 district now concluded, our attention shifts back to the upcoming November elections. However, the term "focus" gains complexity in light of Special Counsel Robert Hur's recent report on President Joe Biden's management of classified documents. Biden's supporters find themselves in a challenging emotional terrain following the investigation, which cleared Biden of criminal misconduct but raised concerns due to Hur's remarks on Biden's age and memory lapses. These issues have sparked significant debate, resonating with both supporters and detractors and causing me considerable anxiety.
Biden's spirited defense during an impromptu press conference, intended to showcase his capability and energy, might have inadvertently highlighted the vulnerabilities his adversaries aim to exploit. His assertive denial, "I know what the hell I am doing," combined with his emotional reaction to criticism, energized his base. This display of deep commitment and defiance raises doubts about his capacity.
Nonetheless, the political environment is harsh, with Biden's age being a critical point of comparison to his probable opponent, Donald Trump. Despite facing criticism, Biden's resilience and commitment to public service appeal to many Americans. His achievements, when compared to Trump's chaotic term, present a clear choice for voters prioritizing democratic values and the rule of law. However, ongoing concerns regarding his stamina and acuity, reflected in recent polls, reveal a growing discomfort among Democrats regarding his ability to fulfill the presidency's rigorous demands.
One hypothetical solution involves AI. Rather than having Biden speak live or participate in public events until November, augmented or generative content could positively represent him.
Though it seems far-fetched, AI's influence in politics is undeniable. The FCC is actively combating AI-generated robocall spam, a significant annoyance. Imagine receiving a call from what seems to be a politician or even the President, soliciting donations or discouraging voting. The development of voice-cloning technology, capable of accurately replicating human speech, brings us closer to this reality.
Jessica Rosenworcel, FCC Chairperson, aims to classify these AI-generated audio impersonations as illegal. The threat posed by machines mimicking familiar voices to scam people is a different challenge altogether.
This scenario extends beyond merely avoiding nuisance calls. It involves voice clones of public figures or relatives attempting to manipulate decisions with serious implications. While AI might seem like a solution to the Democrats' dilemma with Biden, it underscores the broader debate on age, capability, identity, and technology at the highest levels of government.
As the 2024 election approaches, the discussion on Biden's suitability for office, against Trump's legal issues and polarizing speech, amidst a backdrop of content and innovation, sets the stage for an unparalleled electoral contest.
It prompts us to consider what qualities are essential for leadership and service to the nation during these challenging times.