Media mogul John Malone recently shared his experience as an advisor to Warner Bros. Discovery CEO David Zaslav, casting new light on leadership and decision-making in the media industry.

A Wealth Creation Approach

According to Malone, Zaslav’s new compensation package wasn’t just about figures. It was designed to align more closely with shareholder interests, emphasizing long-term wealth creation. “It doesn’t look like it’s all that generous, but in reality, it’s your path to meaningful wealth,” Malone remarked.

Another focal point was the negotiation of NBA rights, where Malone advised prudence, counseling against spending billions. Despite their historic hold on NBA coverage, WBD’s TNT Sports relinquished these rights after 35 years, marking a thoughtful strategic shift for the company.

CNN’s Challenge of Objectivity

Malone didn’t hold back on his views about CNN. “They can’t help themselves,” he commented on the network’s tendency to infuse news with personal opinions, labeling it a “left-leaning, anti-Trump news service.” According to The Hollywood Reporter, this is a hurdle Zaslav has yet to overcome.

Daily Dialogues and Mentorship

Malone revealed that he maintains a close rapport with Zaslav, exchanging daily texts. This ongoing mentorship underlines the critical importance of continuous dialogue and guidance in corporate leadership.

The Future of CNN

As CNN plans to roll out a new streaming subscription service, Malone envisions a transformative period ahead. This move may redefine CNN’s approach to audience engagement, delivering content in an innovative way.

With insights shared in Malone’s memoir, Born to Be Wired, readers better understand the maneuvers behind the curtains of transformative deals in media. As Warner Bros. Discovery embarks on its future strategies, Malone’s counsel remains a vital undercurrent in its ongoing evolution.