The Bill Simmons Podcast Catching Up With John Skipper | The Bill Simmons Podcast
Apr 3, 2019
John Skipper, former ESPN president and current DAZN executive chairman, reminisces about their time at ESPN with Bill Simmons. They delve into the creation of '30 for 30' and the triumphs of ESPN Magazine, exploring the challenges of transitioning from print to digital media. Skipper shares insights on navigating media evolution and the impactful partnerships that shaped ESPN's growth. Their humor shines through as they discuss pronouncing DAZN, while reflections on workplace dynamics and broadcasting rights reveal the intricate landscape of sports media.
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Rolling Stone Days
- John Skipper worked at Rolling Stone in the late 70s, a counter-cultural hub pre-AIDS and pre-crack.
- He witnessed wild events like Buddy Miles bringing a gun and Fred Schruers hanging from a balcony.
Post-Rolling Stone and ESPN
- After Rolling Stone, Skipper briefly worked at Spin before joining Disney.
- At Disney, he managed Disney Adventures and later helped prototype ESPN The Magazine.
ESPN Magazine's Vision
- ESPN The Magazine aimed to be forward-looking, unlike traditional sports magazines stuck in the past.
- The magazine's bi-weekly format and focus on rising stars reflected this.