On Brand with Donny Deutsch

Andrew Yang — entrepreneur, bestselling author, UBI pioneer, and former Presidential candidate — sits down for a wide-ranging conversation covering everything from the existential threat of AI-driven job losses to the Democratic Party's identity crisis, cancel culture, fatherhood, and his bold 2028 election predictions. Yang opens up about his new book, addressing public perception, celebrity status, and life after a presidential run. He breaks down why cancel culture is more complex — and more damaging to society — than most people admit, and why Democrats urgently need to understand the politics of strength if they want to win again. On artificial intelligence and the future of work, Yang sounds the alarm: millions of jobs are at risk due to AI advancements, and the gains won't be shared equally unless we act now. He revisits his core argument for Universal Basic Income (UBI) and equitable distribution of AI's economic benefits. Yang also dives into Noble Mobile, his venture to slash cell phone costs and share profits directly with users — a real-world example of putting economic power back in everyday hands. Plus: Yang reflects on the challenges of fatherhood and shifting personal priorities, shares his outlook for the 2028 presidential race — including which candidates are best positioned to win — and explains why staying personally optimistic in dark times comes down to relationships and community. Be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠On Brand with Donny Deutsch YouTube page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week's Brands of the Week episode of On Brand with Donny Deutsch, Donny breaks down the brands winning and losing in today's cultural and political landscape — and what it all means for public perception, reputation, and influence. This week's biggest brand stories include: Israel's deepening PR crisis as a new Gallup poll reveals a 31-point drop in support among older Democrats and growing losses across Republicans, Catholics, and evangelicals — and why the Netanyahu factor is accelerating the damage. Plus, Donald Trump signs an executive order expanding federal research into psychedelics like psilocybin and ibogaine — a surprising brand move that earns him a rare brand-up. Then, a potentially game-changing pancreatic cancer drug doubles survival time in clinical trials, offering hope for one of the deadliest cancers. Also covered: Trump's signature on U.S. currency draws a 59% disapproval rating, TMZ opens a Washington D.C. bureau to treat politicians like celebrities, American Eagle doubles down on Sydney Sweeney despite controversy, the FAA recruits gamers as air traffic controllers, Hardee's makes a Southeast comeback, and the Washington Commanders add a spear to their logo. Donny also weighs in on ancestry travel trends, the return of men's monograms, Baby Jessica's fall from grace 40 years later, and the science behind why rewatching Cheers and Golden Girls is actually good for your brain. Thursday's episode features a full interview with entrepreneur and former presidential candidate Andrew Yang on his plans for 2028. Brands mentioned: Israel, Benjamin Netanyahu, Donald Trump, FDA, pancreatic cancer drug Elzovantinib, TMZ, American Eagle, Sydney Sweeney, Hardee's, Washington Commanders, Pittsburgh tech hub, Jill Biden, Heated Rivalry, Maryland state symbol, FAA, 23andMe, Ancestry travel, Andrew Yang Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Billy Bush — host of Hot Mics with Billy Bush (live Mon–Thu, 12PM ET on TuneIn Radio & YouTube) — joins Donny for a candid, no-filter conversation about life after the Today Show, building his own media brand, and why independent digital media is the future of broadcasting. Billy opens up about his very public fall from television's top tier and the painful personal journey that ultimately led him back — stronger, more authentic, and finally free from corporate media constraints. He reflects on what it truly means to hit rock bottom, rebuild from scratch, and find purpose on the other side. Then the gloves come off. Billy and Donny go deep on the biggest stories dominating the headlines: Trump's character vs. policy debate, the U.S. strikes on Iran and the Strait of Hormuz, the 2026 midterms and Democratic Party identity crisis, the Savannah Guthrie missing mother case, and NBC's awkward handling of its own story. They also unpack the seismic shift in celebrity culture — why Gen Z knows Alix Earl and Mr. Beast better than any Hollywood A-lister — and what authenticity really means in the creator economy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Donny breaks down the biggest brand wins and losses of the week. First, a brand down for ICE after a survey reveals 60% of recent arrests in the DC/Maryland/Virginia area involved people with no criminal record. Then it's a brand up for San Francisco, where new leadership is proving that tough-but-humane policing actually works — with major crimes dropping across the board and prosecutions skyrocketing. Plus, the emperor penguin gets a brand down as it's officially declared endangered due to climate change. Donny also weighs in on Hollywood making cigarettes cool again (a hard brand down), Nutella's genius move after a surprise space cameo, the return of the original American Girl dolls, and the dangerous Benadryl challenge sweeping TikTok. He also breaks down Gen Z's most bankable movie stars, the USPS stamp price hike, the dying art of cursive writing, the WNBA's explosive expansion, and why women outperform 80% of FBI agents in investigative skills. Plus, a news-you-can-use safety tip you'll want to hear before you cook dinner tonight. Thursday: Donny sits down with Billy Bush — don't miss it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DISCLAIMER: This episode was recorded on January 28th, 2026. Jeffrey Toobin cuts through the political noise to examine one of the most revealing powers a president holds: the pardon. From Gerald Ford's pardon of Richard Nixon to Trump's loyalty-driven clemency decisions, Toobin explores what these choices say about presidential character and the justice system. He tackles the Democratic Party's urgent need for a positive agenda beyond anti-Trump messaging, addresses immigration myths, and raises red flags about election fairness. Yet Toobin closes with a message of hope — highlighting capitalism's role in driving green energy solutions and the dramatic reduction of global poverty as signs that progress is still possible. Be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠On Brand with Donny Deutsch YouTube page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Takeaways Jeffrey Toobin emphasizes the significance of presidential pardons in revealing a president's character. He critiques Gerald Ford's pardon of Nixon as a miscalculation that did not help the country move on from Watergate. Toobin highlights the transactional nature of Trump's pardons, often based on personal loyalty rather than justice. He notes that the Democratic Party needs a positive agenda beyond just opposing Trump. Toobin points out that many undocumented immigrants are law-abiding citizens contributing to society. He expresses concern about the fairness of upcoming elections and potential political hijinks. Toobin believes that the capitalist system will ultimately lead to cleaner energy solutions. He acknowledges the significant reduction in global poverty over the past two decades. Despite current challenges, Toobin remains optimistic about the future. He encourages a focus on substantive issues rather than just political opposition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on On Brand, we're diving into the biggest brand trends, pop culture moments, and marketing news that prove — once again — that everything is a brand. From Trump social media controversy to Gen Z financial trends showing young people moving back in with mom and dad, we unpack what it all means for how we connect, consume, and believe. We explore why Gen Z and religion are becoming inseparable as young people turn to faith for meaning, how economic uncertainty is making radio contests cool again, and why seniors on social media are one of the fastest-growing digital demographics. Plus: did you know the average age of U.S. homes is 44 years — and what that means for real estate branding? We also get into antisemitism in modern art, Starbucks tipping culture and what it means for the future of retail customer experience, and why the Super Mario Brothers movie is the brand marketing success story of the decade. If you're into branding strategy, consumer behavior, marketing trends, and cultural commentary, this is your episode. 🎙️ Subscribe, rate & review On Brand wherever you listen to podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What does a nuclear-armed Iran really mean for the United States, Israel, and the rest of the world? Former Israeli Ambassador to the United States and New York Times bestselling historian Michael Oren joins the show for a powerful, unfiltered conversation recorded amid active missile strikes on Tel Aviv. Ambassador Oren breaks down why the current war with Iran is not just Israel's fight — it's America's too. From Iranian proxy attacks on U.S. military bases to Iran's rapidly advancing ballistic missile program, Oren makes the case that the threat is real, urgent, and deeply misunderstood by the American public. In this episode, we cover: What it's like living under missile fire during Passover in Tel Aviv Why a nuclear Iran is a global threat — not just a Middle Eastern one The Cold War strategy that could defeat the Iranian regime without boots on the ground How Iran's jihadist ideology makes it far more dangerous than North Korea The alarming rise of antisemitism on American college campuses post-October 7th Why "Israel dragged us into this war" is a classic antisemitic trope — and who's spreading it Whether you support or question U.S. involvement in the Iran conflict, this episode is essential listening for anyone who wants to understand the geopolitical stakes of one of the most consequential moments in modern Middle Eastern history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DISCLAIMER: This episode was recorded on February 10th, 2026. Pulitzer Prize-winning journalist and MSNBC analyst Eugene Robinson joins Donny for a candid, wide-ranging conversation that pulls no punches. Eugene opens up about the painful decline of the Washington Post — the paper where he spent 45 years of his career — and what Jeff Bezos's leadership decisions mean for the future of American journalism. He and Donny break down the politics behind the massive layoffs, the closure of international bureaus, and why cozying up to power is a losing game for a free press. Then, the conversation shifts to the cultural moment: the surprising backlash to Bad Bunny's Super Bowl Halftime Show performance and what the uproar over a Spanish-speaking performer says about where America stands today. Eugene also dives deep into his powerful new book, Freedom Lost, Freedom Won: A Personal History of America — a sweeping, intimate look at 200 years of American racial history told through the lens of his own family. From his great-grandfather's rise and fall under Jim Crow, to his own personal memories of segregation in South Carolina, to his father's final message about progress — this is a conversation about how far we've come and how much further we still need to go. Don't miss this essential conversation with one of America's most respected journalists and thinkers. 📖 Freedom Lost, Freedom Won — available now wherever books are sold. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What can history teach us about surviving political chaos? In this episode, Donny sits down with Pulitzer Prize-winning historian and author Jon Meacham to unpack the state of American democracy — from the enduring lessons of Frederick Douglass to the rise of Trumpism and the vanishing political center. Meacham brings rare historical context to today's most pressing questions, and explains why empathy — not ideology — may be democracy's most powerful weapon. If you've ever wondered whether America has been here before, and how it got through it, this episode is your answer. Be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠On Brand with Donny Deutsch YouTube page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Takeaways: Jon Meacham is a prominent historian and author. American democracy has always thrived on contention and debate. The importance of reassuring citizens about democracy's effectiveness. The events of 2020 marked a significant shift in American politics. Frederick Douglass exemplified faith in democracy despite personal suffering. Empathy is crucial for a functioning democracy. Historical context is essential for understanding current political issues. The political center is losing its influence in today's politics. The future of Trumpism is uncertain and depends on upcoming elections. Optimism can be found in historical progress and societal change. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What happens when a Hollywood icon hits the road to rediscover the lost art of male friendship? Brat Pack star turned author Andrew McCarthy joins host Donny Deutsch for a candid, eye-opening conversation about his new book, "Who Needs Friends? An Unscientific Examination of Male Friendship Across America." Andrew's cross-country journey to reconnect with old friends revealed a surprising truth: men are facing a loneliness epidemic — and most don't even know it. From the myths of toxic masculinity to the power of vulnerability, and the role technology plays in eroding real human connection, this conversation unpacks why so many men struggle to form and keep meaningful friendships. Packed with personal stories and a powerful call to embrace vulnerability, this episode is essential listening for any man who wants deeper, more authentic connections in his life. Be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠On Brand with Donny Deutsch YouTube page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Takeaways: Andrew's journey to reconnect with friends was sparked by a conversation with his son. Many men feel isolated and rely on their wives to manage social lives. Vulnerability is often seen as a weakness in men, hindering friendships. Friendships require active effort and vulnerability to flourish. Loneliness among men is a significant issue, often exacerbated by technology. Older men are less likely to admit feelings of loneliness compared to younger men. Social interaction is crucial for mental and physical health. Friendship can be a source of safety and emotional support. Men often struggle with maintaining female friendships due to societal norms. Rekindling friendships can lead to deeper appreciation and connection. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DISCLAIMER: This episode was recorded on February 27th, 2026. In this conversation, Rahm Emanuel discusses his extensive political career and shares insights on current political dynamics, particularly focusing on the upcoming elections, the Democratic Party's strategies, and the challenges posed by Trump. He emphasizes the importance of strong leadership, the need for effective immigration policies, and the impact of social media and AI on society. Emanuel also reflects on the Epstein case and its implications for public trust in the elite. Be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠On Brand with Donny Deutsch YouTube page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Takeaways: Rahm Emanuel has a rich political background as a former mayor and chief of staff. The upcoming elections are a referendum on Trump and the Republican Party. Democrats need to create a strong message that resonates with voters' personal experiences. Leadership during tough times is crucial for political success. There is a significant shortage of skilled workers in the U.S. labor market. Immigration policy needs bipartisan support to address current challenges. Social media regulations for youth are necessary to protect children. AI poses a unique challenge to the job market that requires careful management. The Epstein case highlights public cynicism towards the elite and their immunity. Emanuel encourages a focus on trust between law enforcement and communities. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

DISCLAIMER: This episode was recorded on February 19th, 2026. In this conversation, Kara Swisher and Donny discuss various topics including the performance of Mark Zuckerberg in court, the impact of social media on society, the relationship between tech giants and politics, and the current political climate surrounding Trump and the midterms. They explore the backgrounds of tech leaders, the Democratic Party's response to Trump, and the issues of wealth inequality and political corruption. In this conversation, Kara Swisher and Donny discuss various political strategies, the implications of AI technology, and innovations in health and longevity. They explore the importance of messaging in politics, the future of AI in society, and the need for accessible health solutions for everyone. The discussion highlights the evolving landscape of politics and technology, emphasizing the significance of human connection and the potential for scientific advancements to improve quality of life. Be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠On Brand with Donny Deutsch YouTube page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Takeaways: Mark Zuckerberg's court performance was underwhelming. Social media has addictive tendencies. Trump is a transactional president. The Democratic Party is preparing for the midterms. Public perception of Trump is shifting. Immigration issues are complex and personal. Wealth inequality is a growing concern. Corruption in politics affects everyone. Political messaging should focus on what candidates stand for, not just against. Candidates need to connect with voters on a personal level. AI technology is evolving and poses both opportunities and risks. Human creativity and randomness cannot be replicated by AI. Longevity discussions often focus on the wealthy, neglecting broader accessibility. Connection with others is crucial for mental and physical health. Scientific advancements in health can lead to significant improvements in longevity. The entertainment industry is being transformed by AI, but its future is uncertain. Voter perception of candidates is influenced by their authenticity and relatability. Kara's new show aims to make longevity science accessible to everyone. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Dan Senor discusses the complexities of the current geopolitical landscape, particularly focusing on Iran's military ambitions and the implications for Israel and the U.S. He explores the potential for regime change in Iran, the military strategies being employed by the U.S. and Israel, and the political challenges that come with military engagement. Additionally, Senor emphasizes the importance of Jewish identity and community building in the face of rising anti-Semitism, while also critiquing local leadership's response to these issues. Be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠On Brand with Donny Deutsch YouTube page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Takeaways Dan Senor is a leading expert on Israel and the Middle East. Iran poses a significant military threat to the region and beyond. The potential for regime change in Iran hinges on domestic unrest. U.S. and Israel's military strategies have achieved unexpected successes. Political challenges complicate military engagement in the Middle East. Building Jewish identity is crucial in combating anti-Semitism. Local leadership's rhetoric can exacerbate tensions in the community. Investing in Jewish life is essential for future generations. The U.S. must find a balance in its foreign policy approach. Effective leadership requires bringing down the temperature of rhetoric. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Bret Stephens discusses the complexities of antisemitism, the ongoing conflict with Iran, and the shifting political landscape in the United States, particularly within the Democratic Party. He emphasizes the need for a strong Jewish identity and critiques the ineffective measures taken against antisemitism. Stephens argues that the current military actions against Iran are not a new war but an effort to end a long-standing conflict. He also addresses the rise of anti-Israel sentiment within the Democratic Party and the implications for future elections, warning against the dangers of conspiracy theories and their connection to anti-Semitism. Be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠On Brand with Donny Deutsch YouTube page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Takeaways: We must cultivate our Jewish identity and pride. Antisemitism is more a problem for antisemites than for us. The current conflict with Iran is about ending a long-standing war. Military action against Iran could lead to regional peace. The Democratic Party's shift is concerning for American Jews. Hamas does not seek a peaceful coexistence with Israel. Zionism represents a long-standing anti-colonial struggle. Ending the Iranian regime could facilitate a Palestinian state. Trump's rhetoric poses a threat to democratic institutions. Conspiracy theories can fuel anti-Semitism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Donny discusses the implications of AI on employment, reflects on cultural events, and highlights significant achievements in the entertainment industry. The conversation also touches on heartfelt stories and the revival of popular TV shows, providing a comprehensive look at how branding shapes our perceptions and experiences. Takeaways: Political branding can significantly influence public perception. AI poses a threat to entry-level jobs in various industries. Cultural events can reflect broader societal issues. Personal stories can evoke empathy and connection. Entertainment can serve as a lens to view historical figures. Revival of classic shows can reignite cultural conversations. Awards can highlight significant contributions to society. The impact of personal scandals on public figures is profound. Boxing legends can still captivate audiences with rematches. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this engaging conversation, Kevin O'Leary shares his journey from being one of the original sharks on Shark Tank to his ventures in acting, politics, and investments. He discusses the essence of the American dream, the importance of entrepreneurship, and his innovative business BitZero, which focuses on data centers. O'Leary also delves into the significance of gold and cryptocurrency in today's economy, the impact of AI across various sectors, and his surprising success in collectible sports cards. Throughout the discussion, he emphasizes the need for clarity in business and the importance of focusing on what truly matters. Be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠On Brand with Donny Deutsch YouTube page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Takeaways: Donny reflects on his missed opportunity to join Shark Tank. The American dream is about finding passion, not just money. Shark Tank has created many millionaires and billionaires. Acting in Marty Supreme was a challenging yet rewarding experience. O'Leary aims to play the antagonist in future roles. BitZero focuses on providing power for data centers and crypto mining. Gold remains a reliable investment during chaos. AI is being adopted across all sectors to improve efficiency. Collectible sports cards have become a lucrative investment. O'Leary prioritizes signal over noise in business and life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of 'On Brand', Donny discusses the concept of branding as it applies to various aspects of society, including media control, political integrity, cultural icons, social media responsibility, and consumer products. The conversation highlights the impact of branding on public perception and the importance of values in shaping identities. Key topics include the influence of media on free speech, the political landscape surrounding elections, the responsibility of social media platforms, and nostalgic consumer products. The episode concludes with a look at upcoming highlights and interviews. Takeaways: Media control can backfire and amplify messages. The First Amendment is crucial for free speech. Political integrity is essential for democracy. Cultural icons shape societal values and perceptions. Social media platforms have a responsibility to users. Entertainment industry trends reflect cultural shifts. Sports ticket prices are rising faster than inflation. Consumer nostalgia influences product offerings. Innovative wellness trends are emerging in society. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Scott Galloway discusses various pressing issues, including the economic implications of the Super Bowl, the rise of AI, and the importance of taking action against anxiety through the unsubscribe movement. He highlights the crisis facing young men in America, emphasizing the need for kindness and protection in relationships. Galloway also addresses the political landscape and the challenges young men face, advocating for a more empathetic approach to masculinity. He concludes with his mission to contribute positively to America and the importance of activism. Be sure to check out the ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠On Brand with Donny Deutsch YouTube page⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠. Takeaways: Scott Galloway sees economic trends reflected in Super Bowl ads. The rise of AI may lead to a significant market correction. Young men are facing a crisis of identity and purpose. Kindness and protection are essential qualities in modern masculinity. Empathy should not be viewed as a zero-sum game. The unsubscribe movement empowers individuals to take action against anxiety. Women desire men who notice and appreciate their lives. The most radical activism is non-participation in harmful systems. Galloway emphasizes the importance of being kind and respectful in relationships. He aims to contribute positively to America's future through activism. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this conversation, Andrew Ross Sorkin discusses his new book '1929: Inside the Greatest Crash of Wall Street History and How It Shattered a Nation', exploring the parallels between the events of 1929 and today's economic landscape. He delves into the process of writing the book, the historical patterns of market manipulation, and the lessons learned from government responses to financial crises. Sorkin also reflects on the current state of the market, the role of optimism in investing, and the accountability of CEOs in today's political climate. Takeaways: People look to history to understand the present. The story of 1929 has parallels to today's economic issues. Writing a book requires extensive research and dedication. Market manipulation in 1929 was shocking and legal at the time. Modern equivalents of market manipulation exist in crypto. Government failures in 1929 led to the Great Depression. Lessons from 2008 show the importance of government intervention. CEOs are often reluctant to speak out against political issues. Optimism has historically been more profitable than skepticism. Investing in the S&P index is a sound long-term strategy. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, Donny discusses various brands and their impact on society, politics, and culture. The conversation covers significant media layoffs, the role of AI in advertising, and the branding efforts of political figures. Additionally, the episode touches on health concerns related to wildfire smoke, the return of Bob Costas to sports broadcasting, and Valentine's Day spending trends. The discussion highlights the evolving landscape of branding in contemporary society. Takeaways: Media layoffs reflect broader industry changes and challenges. AI technology poses both opportunities and threats in advertising. Political figures must navigate branding carefully in today's climate. Cultural commentary can influence public perception of brands. Health studies can link environmental factors to societal issues. The return of familiar figures in media can resonate with audiences. Innovations in venues reflect changing consumer preferences. Consumer spending trends reveal insights into societal values. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices