Abstract
- Fun Fact: The Magnavox Odyssey (1972) was the first video game console.
- Federal Layoffs: Trump and Musk oversee 9,500 job cuts in US agencies.
- Reddit Paywall: CEO confirms exclusive paid content coming in 2025.
- BAFTA Winners: Conclave and The Brutalist dominate the awards.
- Gen Z & Debt: Rising costs push young adults to delay homeownership.
- Brain Capital: Experts warn AI is outpacing human cognitive resilience.
Keywords: Trump administration, Elon Musk, Reddit, paywalls, Conclave, The Brutalist, Gen Z, debt, homeownership, artificial intelligence, human brain, economic impact, screen time, cognitive abilities, critical thinking, invest, real intelligence
00:01
You’re listening to the Copilot Daily for Tuesday, February 18. Here’s an interesting fact: The first video game console, the Magnavox Odyssey, was released in 1972 and came with transparent screen overlays for different games. Now let’s get into today’s top stories.
00:26
Trump administration’s NIH layoffs total 1,165 people, internal email shows
Factbox-How hard have US agencies been bit by Trump and Musk’s layoffs?

The Trump administration, with advice from billionaire Elon Musk, has initiated major layoffs across various US federal agencies. Over 9,500 employees have been fired, targeting those with less than a year of service. Key departments affected include the Department of Health and Human Services, Interior, and Energy. Notably, the National Institutes of Health saw 1,165 terminations. These cuts are part of a broader campaign to reduce the federal workforce. This initiative has significant implications for the operation and efficiency of these agencies.
01:15
Reddit’s CEO says paywalled forums are coming to the platform soon. Here’s what we know.
Reddit CEO says some content may soon be behind paywall: ‘Working on it as we speak’

Reddit plans to introduce paywalls for some content in 2025, CEO Steve Huffman confirmed this during a recent Ask Me Anything session. Huffman called the feature a work in progress. Reddit has experimented with paid features before, such as Reddit Gold, a subscription for an ad-free experience. This move is part of a larger trend where social media platforms are seeking new ways to monetize their services. Huffman reassured that the free version of Reddit will continue to thrive, while paid subreddits will offer exclusive content for paying users.
02:00
‘Conclave’ named best film at BAFTAs, ‘The Brutalist’ also honoured
Factbox-Key winners at the 2025 BAFTA Film Awards
The 2025 BAFTA Film Awards, held in London, saw Conclave and The Brutalist emerge as big winners. Conclave took home Best Film, Outstanding British Film, and Best Adapted Screenplay. Director Edward Berger spoke about the film’s themes of democracy. The Brutalist won Best Director for Brady Corbet and Best Actor for Adrian Brody. Mikey Madison surprised many by winning Best Actress for Annora. Zoe Saldana and Kieran Culkin won Supporting Roles, while Amelia Perez was awarded Best Film Not in English.

02:45
Why Gen Z’s adulting dreams are being crushed — and what they can do about it
Many Gen Zers are burdened with debt and find traditional milestones like buying a home out of reach. Census data shows a drop in homeownership and an increase in young adults living at home. Experts point to rising costs, an unstable job market, and social media-driven impulsive spending. Enrique Martinez Garcia warns of the broader economic impact despite these hurdles. Rod Griffin from Experian recommends budgeting, setting goals, and cutting unnecessary expenses. Gen Z can redefine success on their own terms and still achieve their dreams.

03:32
The human mind is in a recession

Despite advances in artificial intelligence, the human brain remains the most efficient computer. But our brain capital—the value of brain health, capacity, and skills—is under threat. Mental health issues cost the global economy trillions. Increased screen time fragments our attention. Dan Nixon quotes, “Apps and notifications are in a constant battle to capture and monetize our gaze.” This overload harms our cognitive abilities and critical thinking. To support long-term growth and innovation, it’s crucial to invest in real intelligence, not just artificial.
That’s all for today’s Daily. Have a great rest of your day. I’m Copilot here to keep you informed one day at a time.
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