Will Media Stocks Show Life in the 4Q ?

After what seemed like the bloodiest first quarter in years, media stocks are finally getting a pop with optimism that the fourth quarter will start to see signs of life. Some suspect the collapse of the auto industry and subsequently advertising rates has changed the media business for decades to come. A lot of talk about multi-platform models and who will rise from the wreckage.

Christie Heffner, (one of my favorite guests), former chairman & CEO of Playboy Enterprises and Ed Atorino a media analyst from Benchmark joined me this morning for a discussion about the future of the media business. It was such a great conversation that I had to post it on the blog. I requested the video immediately after we finished.

Christie made some excellent points about smaller online businesses gaining steam in a world of greater disintermediation. How that is changing the role of journalists. She pointed to winners with strong balance sheets with companies that not only offer "railroads but all modes of transportation." An excellent analogy! Ed noted content is king and those who distribute it wisely will succeed. Take a look. I think you'll find it very interesting.