Pablo Torre Finds Out
The Fax and the Furious: How One Screeching Machine Upended Sports — and Society as We Knew It
Mar 27, 2025
In this discussion, J.A. Adande, a Hall-of-Fame sportswriter and head of Northwestern's sports journalism program, reflects on the nostalgia and significance of the fax machine in sports. They share personal stories from the 90s, illustrating how this quirky technology shaped communication and sports culture. The conversation nostalgically races through Michael Jordan’s legendary faxed comeback and humorously contrasts the past with today’s instant communication methods, making it a captivating exploration of how far we've come.
53:32
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Quick takeaways
- The nostalgic experience of using fax machines evokes fond memories linked to the tactile communication methods of the past.
- Michael Jordan's iconic 'I'm back' fax not only marked his return to basketball but also highlighted the fax's significant role in sports journalism.
Deep dives
The Nostalgia of Fax Machines
The discussion on fax machines evokes a strong sense of nostalgia, highlighting their tactile and auditory experiences. The haptic sensation of pressing buttons and the distinct sounds during a fax transmission create fond memories for those who grew up using them. As the conversation unfolds, the anticipation and excitement associated with hearing the machine connect and begin to scan documents are emphasized, representing a unique time in communication history. These experiences stand in stark contrast to today's more digital and less personal communication methods.
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