The Varsity

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.

NBC’s data guru Steve Kornacki drops by the pod to talk about his new deal with the network, expanding his footprint across both NBC News and Sports—while also allowing flexibility to pursue other avenues, à la Stephen A. and Pat McAfee. Then he previews his coverage plans for the Kentucky Derby, riffs on the rise of sports betting, explains how he brings numbers to life, and more. 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

Mike Florio, a key voice in NFL coverage and creator of Pro Football Talk, shares insider insights on the NFL Draft's evolving media rights and the league's global ambitions, including a season opener in Brazil. He tackles the league's antitrust hurdles and the implications of introducing an 18-game season. Florio also discusses the $50 million lawsuit against Shannon Sharpe and reflects on Adam Silver's concerns about media's hold on the NBA, shedding light on the intricate connections between sports, legal battles, and media dynamics.

Larry Baer, President and CEO of the San Francisco Giants, along with Fox Sports executive Ben Valenta, dive into the art of community-building in sports. They discuss the Giants' commitment to enhancing neighborhood connections and Fox Sports' data-driven fan engagement strategies. The conversation explores the challenges of appealing to younger audiences, finding funding for new ballparks, and the balance between spending and success in baseball. Audience questions spark lively discussions about the emotional ties between fans and their teams.