Ellie the Elephant Is Stealing The Cold Hearts Of New York Fans - Eps. 54

Welcome to Episode 54 of the irl Media NEWS Podcast, I'm your host Chris Thompson, and today we discuss Ellie the Elephant stealing the cold hearts of New York fans, MrBeast launches moldy Lunchly snack-pack to compete against Lunchables, Nintendo releases quirky Alarmo sleep tracking alarm clock, Tom Holland launches non-alcoholic beer brand Bero, and Prince Harry & Meghan Markle buy a home in Portugal worthy of royalty.

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Transcript

Welcome to Episode 54 of the irl Media NEWS Podcast, I'm your host Chris Thompson, and today we discuss Ellie the Elephant stealing the cold hearts of New York fans, MrBeast launches moldy Lunchly snack-pack to compete against Lunchables, Nintendo releases quirky Alarmo sleep tracking alarm clock, Tom Holland launches non-alcoholic beer brand Bero, and Prince Harry & Meghan Markle buy a home in Portugal worthy of royalty.

Business

MrBeast’s latest food venture, Lunchly, debuted with a flurry of excitement, and a healthy dose of drama. Lunchly is also backed by a high-profile partnership with YouTube stars Logan Paul and KSI. Lunchly combines a classic snack-pack format with modern elements, such as the inclusion of Prime, an energy drink co-created by Logan Paul and KSI, that already has a cult-like following among younger audiences. Although the launch aimed to create a buzz in the snack world, it encountered a serious issue right out of the gate - reports of moldy food found in Lunchly kits. YouTube star and influencer Rosanna Pansino brought this issue to light, warning consumers and stirring widespread debate about food safety in the era of celebrity-endorsed products. The scandal may affect MrBeast’s push to disrupt the lunch-kit market and carve out a share from Lunchables, a giant that has long dominated the space.

Lunchly represents MrBeast’s latest foray into the competitive snack industry, following his other food ventures MrBeast Burger and Feastables. This time, MrBeast is aiming at the $1.3 billion lunch-kit market, a category currently led by Lunchables, which enjoys an estimated 84% of market share. Lunchables, owned by Kraft Heinz, has been a staple in the U.S. snack and lunch-pack industry for over three decades, holding its ground with a mix of convenience, nostalgia, and wide availability. By contrast, Lunchly positions itself as a modern, internet-friendly alternative that targets a young audience familiar with MrBeast’s content and with Logan Paul and KSI’s viral Prime energy drink.

With MrBeast’s influence on platforms like YouTube, where he has over 455.57 million subscribers, his reach is unparalleled. Analysts speculate that if Lunchly captures even a small share of the market, it could pull in millions of dollars annually. For example, just a 5% market penetration could yield roughly $65 million in revenue, a significant boost for any newcomer in the sector. But MrBeast’s strategy relies heavily on reputation and brand loyalty, factors that are now under pressure from mounting food-safety complaints.

The wave of complaints about mold in Lunchly kits went viral after Rosanna Pansino, a prominent YouTube influencer with 14.5 million followers and an extensive background in culinary content, posted a video that documented her unsettling experience with the product. Rosanna Pansino’s video, titled “I Tried Lunchly,” not only reviewed the new snack line but also exposed an unexpected discovery: the cheese in her Lunchly pizza kit was visibly moldy, despite an expiration date listed two months away. In her video, Rosanna Pansino expressed concern for young consumers who might not recognize the mold and could eat the spoiled food. "This is not safe," she emphasized, noting that children, the product’s main audience, might not know to avoid such food.

Her concerns didn’t stop there. Rosanna Pansino’s video gained immediate traction, sparking discussions across social media platforms and leading other customers to report similar issues. In her post, she mentioned that after investigating, she found at least a dozen other consumers who had shared similar complaints online. These reports included photos and anecdotes of moldy cheese and other spoiled ingredients, with one user even mentioning a strange smell upon opening the product. The collective outcry has thrown a wrench into Lunchly's rollout, putting MrBeast and his collaborators under scrutiny for quality control and food safety.

Lunchly and MrBeast’s brand success hinge not only on innovation but also on trust - a factor severely impacted by these recent complaints. In response to Rosanna Pansino’s viral video, Lunchly issued a statement defending their manufacturing process. The company explained that each product undergoes multiple layers of quality control, from USDA oversight to in-house inspections. Despite this reassurance, the visible proof of spoiled food has cast doubts over these claims, especially as more customer reports emerge.

Given MrBeast's reputation as a meticulous creator who aims for high standards in his ventures, the mold allegations present a potential obstacle that could undermine his relationship with fans and consumers. Some industry analysts suggest that this scandal could impact the brand's credibility in a competitive market where established players like Lunchables have a long-standing reputation for consistency. Customer complaints and bad press can pose challenges in retail partnerships, potentially impacting product placement and sales figures.

Despite the initial backlash, excitement around Lunchly remains high among MrBeast’s fan base and followers of Logan Paul and KSI. With the star power of these internet personalities, Lunchly has the potential to recover from this setback if MrBeast and his partners take swift action to address quality control and prevent future issues. This could involve transparent communication with consumers, a recall of affected batches, or a commitment to stricter quality standards - all of which would reassure fans and help the brand move past the scandal.

Lunchly’s entry into the lunch-kit market highlights the changing landscape of consumer goods, where traditional products like Lunchables now face competition from influencer-led brands. However, allegations of mold and spoilage could hinder Lunchly’s chances to disrupt the sector, especially if consumer trust erodes further. Moving forward, MrBeast’s handling of the complaints and his response to the initial quality issues will be crucial in determining whether Lunchly can gain traction or be remembered as an ambitious yet flawed endeavor in the food industry.

Entertainment

Tom Holland has just launched Bero, his new non-alcoholic beer brand, marking a fresh venture for the beloved star best known for his role as Spider-Man. Tom Holland’s foray into the beverage industry is drawing significant attention due to his star power and the strategic timing behind the release. Bero enters a growing market where non-alcoholic beers have seen a surge in popularity, responding to a demand for healthier, lifestyle-oriented drink options. With the buzz around Bero, Tom Holland joins other celebrities embracing the beverage business, using his influence to bring more awareness to a booming market.

This is an ideal time to introduce a non-alcoholic beer brand. Non-alcoholic beverages, including beers and spirits, have grown rapidly as people prioritize health-conscious choices. Many consumers, particularly among Gen Z and millennial demographics, are turning to non-alcoholic options as a way to balance social drinking experiences without the drawbacks of alcohol. This shift is reshaping the $2.3 trillion global alcoholic beverages industry, in which non-alcoholic beer represents a rapidly growing segment. As of 2023, the non-alcoholic beer market was valued at over $37 billion, with an expected compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of around 9.9%, significantly outpacing traditional alcohol. This shift is also supported by the wellness trend, where consumers seek products that align with their fitness goals and healthier living, making Bero’s timing perfect for capitalizing on the changing tastes and preferences of modern drinkers.

The non-alcoholic beer and spirits industry is increasingly competitive, with numerous brands emerging to meet the rising demand for alcohol alternatives. One of the major players is Athletic Brewing Company, known for its craft-style non-alcoholic beers that have captured a substantial share of the market. Heineken and Budweiser, two global beer giants, have also jumped on the trend with Heineken 0.0 and Budweiser Zero, appealing to mainstream consumers. In the spirits sector, brands like Seedlip and Lyre’s offer a range of non-alcoholic spirits, from gin to whiskey alternatives, catering to those who want sophisticated non-alcoholic cocktail options. This growing competition highlights the popularity and profitability of the non-alcoholic segment, adding momentum for new brands like Bero.

Tom Holland’s background as an actor has equipped him with a platform to reach diverse audiences, and Bero reflects his latest personal and professional evolution. His career took off with his breakout role as Peter Parker in the Marvel Cinematic Universe, endearing him to audiences worldwide and solidifying his place in Hollywood. Known for his boy-next-door charm and infectious energy, Tom Holland has starred in several high-grossing movies, including Spider-Man: No Way Home, which became one of the highest-grossing films of all time. Beyond his Marvel roles, Holland has diversified his filmography with movies like The Devil All the Time and Cherry, showcasing his range as an actor. His relationship with fellow actor Zendaya, his co-star in the Spider-Man series, has added to his public appeal, often making headlines as fans adore the real-life romance between two of Hollywood’s brightest stars. Tom Holland’s estimated net worth is reported to be around $25 million, a figure bolstered not only by his acting career but now by his latest entrepreneurial endeavor with Bero.

With Bero, Tom Holland is capitalizing on his strong fan base and the shift in consumer drinking habits, bringing a refreshing new option to the market. Tom Holland’s non-alcoholic beer brand reflects a broader shift in the industry and is primed to make a significant impact. The excitement surrounding the launch is only amplified by Holland’s undeniable charm, Hollywood success, and his relationship with Zendaya, creating a perfect mix of factors to fuel Bero’s growth.

Tech

Nintendo’s latest gadget, Alarmo, has brought a fresh spin to the traditional alarm clock by merging it with smart, sleep-tracking features and Nintendo’s unique aesthetic. This $99.99 device, available for purchase exclusively through Nintendo’s online store for Switch Online members, has sparked curiosity and mixed reactions from fans who’ve been eagerly awaiting the next-generation Switch console.

Alarmo’s design leans toward the nostalgic, resembling a classic alarm clock with a modern twist. Its rounded body hosts a rectangular screen, which some reviewers feel limits the device's visual appeal since it doesn’t utilize a full circular clock mode. The display’s brightness is automatically adjusted by a sensor, although it can also be manually controlled. At its core, the Alarmo is more than just a clock; it’s a sleep assistant that uses motion-sensing technology to monitor sleep patterns, providing insights on how often users stir throughout the night.

What truly distinguishes Alarmo is its array of Nintendo-themed alarm tones and visuals. From The Legend of Zelda: Breath of the Wild to Super Mario Odyssey and Pikmin 4, users have access to 35 preloaded scenes and alarm sounds at launch. As Nintendo releases updates, additional themes from popular franchises like Animal Crossing and Mario Kart will become available. The device allows users to interact with it through an old-school rotary-style dial to select and set alarms, though the navigation style has faced some critiques for being unintuitive compared to touchscreen models.

Aside from its charming design, Alarmo offers a range of motion-sensing features to detect movement both in bed and upon waking. If a user stirs during sleep, the device tracks this, and in the morning, it escalates the alarm sounds depending on the level of motion detected. Alarmo also includes various alarm modes, such as “Steady,” “Moderate,” “Mild,” and “Button,” catering to different wake-up preferences. The “Button” mode, for instance, disables the motion-sensing alarm escalation, ideal for users with pets or a partner who could inadvertently trigger the alarm by moving around.

However, not everything is going smoothly for the launch of the Alarmo alarm clock. The lack of app connectivity is one noticeable limitation. Unlike competing products, Alarmo does not integrate with smartphones or third-party apps.

This is a HUGE missed opportunity!

Alarmo does connect to the internet for firmware updates and additional theme downloads, so maybe this is a mistake they can correct with a new update.

Priced just shy of $100, Alarmo’s price point aligns with some premium alarm clocks, though it still represents a significant purchase for what remains a basic device in many ways. Its unique positioning as a sleep tracker combined with Nintendo-themed functionality could appeal to fans of the brand and those who appreciate gamified, themed tech products. As Nintendo recently ventured into the sleep market with the Pokémon Sleep app, it seems to be building a broader sleep-based ecosystem.

Although some Nintendo fans are excited about the quirky appeal of a Nintendo-branded alarm clock, others have expressed disappointment, wishing for an update on the long-anticipated Switch 2 console instead. Right now Alarmo stands as a niche offering that, despite its limited functionality, adds a bit of Nintendo charm to a previously overlooked category of tech.

Alarmo highlights Nintendo’s innovative approach by combining practical functionality with engaging, interactive themes, bringing a touch of nostalgia and fun into the sleep-tracking space. Whether it will become a staple in homes or a cult favorite among fans remains to be seen, but it undoubtedly brings a unique experience to the bedside.

Real Estate

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have expanded their real estate portfolio by purchasing a new home in Portugal, marking another chapter in their journey as high-profile expatriates. The couple plans to use this property as a base in Europe, while maintaining their $14.65 million Montecito, California mansion as their primary residence. The decision to invest in Portugal highlights the couple’s intent to maintain close ties to family, as well as an affinity for luxury properties in exclusive locations.

Though few specific details have emerged about the exact location or characteristics of the new property, reports indicate that Prince Harry and Meghan Markle selected Portugal to stay near family. Prince Harry’s cousin, Princess Eugenie, who he is very close with and her husband, Jack Brooksbank, own a home within the CostaTerra Golf and Ocean Club, a members-only community located in Comporta, Portugal. Known for its stunning coastal views, world-class golfing, and serene privacy, CostaTerra caters to a select clientele of celebrities, entrepreneurs, and global elites seeking a luxurious yet discreet getaway. Although the specifics of Prince Harry and Meghan’s new home are not public, it is likely situated near Princess Eugenie’s residence, allowing the family to reconnect in a relaxed, beautiful environment.

Portugal has recently gained popularity among wealthy international buyers seeking European properties. The country’s “golden visa” program, which grants residency permits to individuals who make qualifying investments in Portuguese real estate, provides an attractive incentive. For Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, this not only allows easy travel access within Europe but also potential pathways to longer-term residency.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s decision to relocate from the United Kingdom and ultimately relinquish their UK residence, Frogmore Cottage, has been symbolic of their larger departure from traditional royal roles. Frogmore Cottage, a 19th-century home on the grounds of Windsor Castle, was their primary residence before they left England in 2020. Originally a wedding gift from Queen Elizabeth II, the property underwent extensive renovations funded in part by public money, amounting to approximately $3 million. After stepping down from royal duties, the couple repaid these renovation costs, closing that chapter of their lives in the United Kingdom.

Frogmore Cottage held sentimental value to be sure, but also represented the pressures of royal life. When they decided to step back from official duties, the couple initially resided in Canada before permanently relocating to the United States. Though no longer in England, Prince Harry and Meghan have occasionally returned for family events, such as the funeral of Prince Harry’s grandfather, Prince Philip and his grandmother Queen Elizabeth. However, the couple’s loss of Frogmore Cottage as a residence underscores a widening gap between them and royal life in the UK. This new property in Portugal serves as a balance, enabling a European base without the formality and public expectations that would have accompanied a royal property.

While their new property in Portugal marks a return to Europe, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle are keeping their California mansion in Montecito as their main home. Purchased in 2020 for $14.65 million, this luxurious estate spans 18,000 square feet and offers every amenity suited to the couple’s needs. The 9 bedroom, 16 bathroom home is situated in the hills of Santa Barbara County, providing an escape from paparazzi and public scrutiny. Its extensive grounds feature a large swimming pool, a private playground for their two children, and even a tennis court. Interiors include high-end finishes, a library, gym, and spa, as well as various office spaces where the couple can work on their philanthropic projects and media ventures.

Montecito itself is a celebrity enclave, home to Oprah Winfrey, Ellen DeGeneres, and other high-profile figures seeking privacy amid California’s natural beauty. Known for its gated communities and scenic coastline, Montecito has proven to be an ideal retreat for the couple as they focus on raising their family and pursuing new career paths outside of royalty.

Prince Harry and Meghan’s recent decision to invest in Portugal is seen by many as a family-oriented move. Both Prince Harry and Princess Eugenie have long shared a close bond, and their spouses have formed friendships as well. This new home in Portugal allows Prince Harry and Meghan Markle to maintain a familial presence in Europe without the obligations of a traditional royal residence. In choosing Portugal, they have also selected a destination known for its laid-back lifestyle and natural beauty, offering an ideal escape from the rigors of public life.

For Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, life has become a mix of international influences. Their property in Montecito provides a stable home base for their young family and growing business ventures, including their production company, Archewell. Meanwhile, their investment in Portugal signifies both a reconnection with European roots and a step toward a more independent future. Their choice of location underscores their desire to be close to loved ones while maintaining the autonomy they sought when they first moved abroad.

Ultimately, Prince Harry and Meghan’s property portfolio reflects their broader journey - balancing family connections, philanthropy, and personal freedom across continents. Their continued investment in Montecito and now in Portugal represents the couple’s values of privacy and proximity to loved ones, allowing them to pursue a lifestyle that blends public roles with private moments.

As they grow their roots on two continents, Prince Harry and Meghan Markle’s new home in Portugal offers a serene getaway where they can remain close to family, adding a new chapter to their life outside traditional royal circles. This move illustrates their commitment to a modern royal lifestyle, one that embraces family, independence, and a shared desire for a meaningful future.

Sports

Ellie the Elephant, the WNBA New York Liberty’s mascot, has captured hearts online and in the stands, adding an exciting layer to the team’s journey under co-owner Clara Wu Tsai. Since Ellie’s debut, her unique energy and dance moves have made her a sensation, with clips of her twerking, “death drops,” and fashion statements becoming viral hits. Her social media presence alone has garnered over 300,000 followers, making Ellie more than just a game-day mascot; she’s now a beloved figure among basketball fans and fashion-forward mascot enthusiasts alike.

To really understand why the WNBA New York Liberty’s mascot Ellie the Elephant has taken the internet by storm, you need to understand how the team got to this point, and the only way to do that is to better understand the force of nature that is the team’s co-owner, Clara Wu Tsai. When Clara Wu Tsai and her husband, Joe Tsai, bought the Liberty from James Dolan in 2019, the franchise was struggling both in branding and finances. A committed advocate for women’s sports, Clara Wu Tsai invested heavily in the team and moved them from Madison Square Garden to the Brooklyn-based Barclays Center, giving them a new home and identity. Wu Tsai, who has helped shape the Liberty’s progressive culture, brought a fresh vision to the franchise, leading to record viewership in 2024 and the Liberty’s first-ever WNBA Championship win. Ellie the Elephant, introduced as part of a rebranding effort, became the perfect embodiment of Wu Tsai’s commitment to connecting with fans and celebrating the WNBA’s growing popularity.

Sports mascots have long been vital in creating unforgettable fan experiences, adding color and excitement to the games, and Ellie the Elephant is just the latest in a lineage of mascots that have achieved superstar status. Some of the most famous mascots in sports history include the MLB's Phillie Phanatic, known for his outlandish dances and antics, and the NBA’s Benny the Bull, who has been a staple of Chicago Bulls games since 1969. The Phillie Phanatic, originally designed in 1978, is widely regarded as one of the most beloved mascots due to his comical, oversized green appearance and his propensity to playfully harass opposing players and referees. Benny the Bull, on the other hand, is known for his high-flying dunks, pranks, and on-court skits, captivating fans in Chicago and beyond.

Another iconic figure is Gritty, the Philadelphia Flyers’ NHL mascot introduced in 2018. Initially met with skepticism for his unusual appearance, Gritty quickly gained internet fame for his wild expressions, social media presence, and unabashedly chaotic personality. His popularity transcended hockey, making him a meme-worthy figure recognized well outside the sports world. The San Diego Chicken, an early mascot from MLB’s San Diego Padres, set a precedent for costumed mascots in the 1970s, and his success influenced other teams to adopt playful mascots as a way to connect with fans and boost game-day entertainment. Similarly, Mr. Met, representing the New York Mets since 1964, became one of the earliest anthropomorphic mascots in sports and remains a beloved part of the Mets’ brand today.

Mascots are also effective marketing tools, often becoming valuable symbols that embody a team’s spirit and culture. They are increasingly featured in team merchandise, social media campaigns, and community events, which helps build a loyal fanbase beyond the stadium. For the New York Liberty, Ellie the Elephant not only boosts the team’s visibility but also resonates with fans, especially young audiences, by offering a memorable, interactive experience. Ellie’s stylish outfits, playful attitude, and TikTok presence make her a relatable and influential figure in the Liberty’s branding, much like Gritty or Benny the Bull for their respective teams.

Through these examples, it’s evident that mascots can play a transformative role in sports culture. Ellie the Elephant is poised to leave a lasting impact, following in the footsteps of these legendary mascots while bringing her own unique flair to the WNBA and helping elevate the Liberty’s profile across the sports world.

Ellie the Elephant’s influence goes beyond the games, as her popularity draws fans and media attention, which benefits the Liberty and the WNBA at large. Clara Wu Tsai’s focus on growing fan engagement through Ellie has brought national attention to the Liberty, supporting the WNBA’s wider mission to elevate women’s sports. With Ellie as their ambassador, the Liberty have found a unique way to connect with fans, making each game an unforgettable experience while showcasing the team’s rising star power in professional sports.