What happens when your car is tracking your behavior, a music contract tied to Taylor Swift reshapes a massive payout, and global security risks unfold in real time?

In this episode of the Back to Business Podcast, we break down the biggest business news, global events, and financial headlines shaping today’s economy.

We cover:
• AI-powered driver monitoring technology in cars
• The Spotify and Universal Music Group deal influenced by a Taylor Swift contract clause
• Israel and UAE defense cooperation
• The security incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner

More importantly, we go deeper into what these stories actually mean:
• Who controls your data in an AI-driven world
• How contracts can reshape major financial outcomes
• What global alliances signal for the future of geopolitics
• How organizations manage risk at the highest levels

If you want to stay ahead of business trends, economic shifts, AI technology, and global news, this episode gives you the context behind the headlines.

This week on Back to Business, we break down the decisions shaping global markets and what they mean for businesses right now.

From rising tensions in the Strait of Hormuz and the potential impact on oil prices, fuel costs, and global supply chains, to the growing risks of AI in the legal system, this episode explores how high stakes decisions are influencing the economy in real time.

We also examine the recent AI legal controversy involving false citations and what it reveals about the risks of relying on artificial intelligence in professional environments. In addition, we discuss the potential Spirit Airlines bailout and what it says about corporate bailouts, market intervention, and competition.

Finally, we look at the NFL Draft as a real world example of high pressure decision making, where billion dollar choices are made with incomplete information and uncertain outcomes.

Topics include:
• Strait of Hormuz and its impact on global oil supply and gas prices
• AI in law, legal risk, and AI hallucinations
• Spirit Airlines bailout and corporate bailout economics
• NFL Draft strategy and high stakes decision making

This episode connects global events, business strategy, and financial risk to show how decisions at the highest levels impact markets, companies, and consumers.

Welcome to the new era of the Back to Business Podcast.

In this episode, meet your hosts — Sarah Annas, Shaya Baum, and Michael Kassab — as they introduce the refreshed format of the show and share what’s ahead.

From real-world business insights to conversations that matter, this podcast is focused on delivering practical knowledge, honest perspectives, and relevant topics across finance, entrepreneurship, and beyond.

This episode is all about getting to know the voices behind the mic — their backgrounds, experiences, and what you can expect each week — including the story behind the creation of the Tent of Two Brothers Coalition and the mission that drives it.

In this episode of Back to Business, we sit down with Todd Flood, Managing Partner of Flood Law, to explore what it takes to build a career at the highest level of law, leadership, and high-stakes litigation.

Todd shares his journey from serving as an Assistant Wayne County Prosecutor to leading one of Michigan’s most respected law firms, offering a firsthand look at the discipline and mindset developed through trying hundreds of cases. From homicides to complex fraud and narcotics trafficking, he breaks down how those early courtroom experiences shaped his approach to strategy, decision-making, and advocacy.

He also dives into his transition into private practice, where he has led high-profile civil litigation involving wrongful death, civil rights, and whistleblower claims. Todd explains what it really takes to establish credibility in a competitive legal landscape, build a trusted reputation, and consistently operate at a high level under pressure.

Listeners will gain insight into navigating complex cases, developing strong leadership skills, and building a career rooted in credibility and results. This conversation offers practical advice for anyone looking to stand out in law or any high-performance profession.

👉 Don’t miss this episode on high-stakes litigation, building credibility, and what it takes to succeed at the top of the legal field.

In this episode of Back to Business, we sit down with Mike Lindell, Founder and CEO of MyPillow, to explore what it truly takes to build a nationally recognized consumer brand from the ground up.

Mike shares how he transformed a simple product idea into a household name, breaking down the key moments that drove real traction and long-term growth. He offers an inside look at how brand identity, customer connection, and clear messaging play a critical role in standing out in a competitive market, along with the strategies that helped scale distribution and drive consistent sales.

He also dives into the realities of expanding a product line while protecting the strength of a core brand, and the discipline required to grow without losing focus. From early breakthrough moments to long-term positioning, this conversation highlights what actually moves a brand from idea to recognition.

Listeners will gain insight into building a memorable brand, understanding what drives consumer behavior, and making strategic decisions that support sustainable growth. This candid conversation is packed with practical lessons on scaling a business, strengthening brand identity, and creating lasting customer connection.

👉 Don’t miss this episode on brand building, scaling a consumer business, and turning a simple idea into a household name.

In this episode of Back to Business, we sit down with Randy Najjar, Founder and CEO of Sapphire Luxury Homes, to explore what it truly takes to build and scale a premium, project driven business in the luxury home market.
Randy shares his journey into high end development and offers an inside look at how luxury home building works behind the scenes, from land acquisition and concept development to construction, capital planning, and final delivery. He breaks down the operational structure of luxury development, the realities of managing long timelines and large investments, and the leadership discipline required to protect quality while growing a brand.

Listeners will gain insight into evaluating risk, structuring projects, and making strategic decisions in industries where precision, reputation, and execution matter. This candid conversation is packed with practical lessons on scaling responsibly, building strong systems, and leading with long term vision.

👉 Don’t miss this episode on leadership, risk management, scaling a premium business, and what it takes to build at the highest level.

In this episode of Back to Business, we sit down with Mike Kassab, CEO of M & R Home Assistance, to discuss what it takes to grow a successful home care business inside a highly regulated industry.

Mike shares his journey building M & R Home Assistance, a Michigan-based in-home care provider serving seniors, individuals with disabilities, and clients with complex daily-living needs. He offers practical insights on navigating healthcare compliance, building strong operational systems, recruiting and retaining caregivers, and delivering high-quality care while expanding responsibly.

Listeners will also hear how access to growth capital and choosing the right financial partner can support long-term stability in service-based businesses. This candid conversation is packed with real-world lessons for business owners operating in healthcare services, regulated industries, and other mission-driven businesses looking to grow the right way.

👉 Don’t miss this episode on business growth, compliance, leadership, and building a company that lasts.

Join our host, Sarah Annas, in this episode of Back to Business as she chats with Roman Golshteyn, owner of The Computer Guy. Dive into Roman's inspiring journey of building a successful IT company, his expertise in tech solutions, and what it takes to thrive in the ever-evolving IT industry. Don't miss this insightful conversation packed with valuable lessons for business and technology enthusiasts!

Want to take your brand to the next level? PR expert and 15-time Emmy Award winner Robin Schwartz joins the Wing Lake Capital's Back to Business podcast to share how to craft compelling brand narratives, elevate your media presence, and get your business noticed. In this episode, we dive deep into the world of public relations, media strategy, and building visibility and credibility in a crowded market.

In this episode of Back to Business, we sit down with Michele Newman, Senior Director of Sales at Next Step & SE Marketplace, to explore what it takes to grow from HR beginnings into national sales leadership.

With 17 years in sales, Michele shares the strategies that helped her succeed in building teams, driving growth, and creating vendor–retailer partnerships that last. From aligning teams around company goals to avoiding the most common partnership mistakes, her lessons apply to every business leader looking to stay competitive and build stronger relationships.

👉 Don’t miss this candid conversation on leadership, growth, and the future of lasting customer relationships.