The Varsity

ESPN’s Seth Wickersham joins John to break down all of his remarkable inside reporting from last week’s NFL owners meetings in Minnesota. They discuss what it all portends for the league, before turning to Seth’s forthcoming book, American Kings: A Biography of the Quarterback. Finally, they dig into all the latest drama surrounding Bill Belichick. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

CBS Sports’ Pete Radovich joins John for an in-depth conversation about the UEFA Champions League. Pete reflects on the evolution of CBS’s coverage, the challenge of preserving its distinctive vibe amid personnel changes, and how they’ve optimized social media to deepen fan engagement. Then he previews the upcoming Champions League finals between PSG and Inter Milan—and their special watch-along event with David Beckham on Paramount+. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Cohan, a Wall Street expert and partner at Puck, shares his insights on the evolving sports media landscape. He discusses why he's optimistic about Warner Bros. Discovery, revealing the financial strategies investors seek in sports rights. Cohan also provides an inside look at the challenges Sherry Redstone faces with Paramount's sale and the complexities of navigating today's regulatory hurdles. Listeners gain a unique perspective on how traditional media is adapting to streaming and the impact of corporate mergers in this dynamic industry.

Eric Shanks, C.E.O. of Fox Sports, shares his insights on IndyCar's current state and future potential. He discusses the need to connect IndyCar with NASCAR, enhancing engagement for fans. Eric also highlights Fox's upcoming streaming platform, Fox One, which aims to diversify sports content. He dives into challenges in sports broadcasting, balancing traditional and direct-to-consumer strategies. With a blend of nostalgia and innovation, Eric paints an exciting picture for IndyCar's future.

Sara Fischer, a media reporter for Axios, dives into the nuances of ESPN's new streaming service and the challenges of its branding. She contrasts ESPN's strategy to appeal to younger viewers with Fox's more cautious approach. The discussion also highlights The Athletic's remarkable growth since its acquisition by The New York Times, emphasizing their successful navigation of a tough media landscape. Together, they examine the dynamics of sports broadcasting and how subscription models are reshaping the industry.

Build the life of your dreams and learn from the world’s most successful people. Emma Grede, one of America’s richest self-made women - wants you to make the most of your life. On ‘Aspire with Emma Grede', learn through thought-provoking conversations with some of the most successful and smartest minds on the planet. Each episode will unpack their habits, philosophy and strategies, covering career advice, well-being, psychology and of course how to win in business. The show offers personal stories, data-driven advice, real-world strategies, and the experience you need, to turn your dreams into reality. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jeremy Carey, Chief Investment Officer at Optimum Sports, discusses the future of sports advertising amid evolving market dynamics. He highlights the significance of upfront presentations and their impact on advertising strategies. Carey delves into the challenges posed by recession fears and shifts towards innovative media to engage younger audiences. He also examines the transformation of ad strategies, the power of major sports events, and the growing role of women's sports in this new landscape.

ESPN’s MLB insider Jeff Passan joins John for a sweeping conversation about the state of the league a few months into the 2025 season. Jeff discusses MLB’s biggest red flags, the forthcoming labor and media rights negotiations, and the parity between high-payroll teams and small market teams. Then, as the specter of a new salary cap looms, Jeff warns why a 2027 lockout may be all but inevitable. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Connor Schell, the visionary co-creator behind ESPN’s 30 for 30 series, joins John for a deep dive into the golden era of sports storytelling. From the evolution of prestige documentaries at HBO and ESPN to the streaming revolution led by the likes of Netflix and Apple, Connor unpacks how the landscape has shifted—and why these are the golden days for sports content. He also offers an inside look at his production company, Words + Pictures, and discusses what’s next. To learn more about listener data and our privacy practices visit: https://www.audacyinc.com/privacy-policy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit https://podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Greg Wyshynski, ESPN's senior NHL guru and former Puck Daddy writer, dives into the pressing issues facing professional hockey today. He discusses the upcoming labor deal likely to emerge during the Stanley Cup Finals and highlights the NHL's economic vulnerabilities compared to the NBA and NFL. The podcast also explores Gary Bettman's impactful leadership, the league's evolving media strategies, and the potential for team relocations. Greg gives insights on how the NHL is adapting to new audiences while balancing tradition with innovation.