The Varsity

Laura Rutledge, an ESPN studio host known for her expertise in NFL and college football, joins for a lively discussion on the future of sports media. She shares insights on her decision to stay with ESPN amidst industry changes and the challenges posed by cord-cutting and streaming services. The conversation shifts to the College Football Playoff's expansion and how it affects team strategies. Laura also highlights the growing global reach of the NFL, particularly its increasing popularity in London and the thrilling atmosphere of international games.

Sara Fischer, a media correspondent for Axios and a CNN regular, dives into the evolving landscape of sports media. She discusses the significant merger between Disney and Fubo and its impact on streaming strategies. Fischer also explores DirecTV's new sports package and its implications for viewers. The potential fallout from a TikTok ban on sports media targeting younger audiences is analyzed, alongside the challenges faced by regional sports networks in major markets amid declining cable subscriptions.

Mike McCarley, C.E.O. of TMRW Sports and co-founder of TGL, dives into the groundbreaking indoor golf league featuring Tiger Woods and Rory McIlroy. They discuss the record-breaking viewer turnout and the innovative format that's shaking up traditional golf. McCarley highlights the league's unique blend of technology and entertainment, aiming to engage younger audiences. He shares insights on how storytelling in sports broadcasting is evolving and how TGL could inspire new formats for other sports.

Eriq Gardner, Puck's legal specialist and author, dives into the seismic merger between Disney's Hulu + Live TV and Fubo, discussing its impact on ESPN’s streaming future. He explores the potential legal battles stemming from consumer complaints and the competitive landscape surrounding DirecTV. Eriq also shares his insights on the anticipated launch of Venue Sports, stressing the importance of timing around major events like the Super Bowl, and how younger audiences are shifting towards platforms like YouTube for sports content.

Rich Clark, executive director of CFP, joins John for a candid conversation about this year’s College Football Playoff and the state of college sports in the NIL era. They discuss the early successes of the inaugural 12-team format, CFP going head-to-head with the NFL, potential changes we could see down the line, the New Orleans act of terrorism that caused the Sugar Bowl to be delayed, and much 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

Join two best friends and former co-stars as they explore behind-the-scenes secrets of a beloved TV show. They share thrilling updates and plans for the latest season, aiming to drive even more laughs. Expect insightful listener interactions and a walk down memory lane with past favorites. It's a delightful blend of nostalgia, anecdotes, and fan engagement that keeps the spirit alive!

Golf personalities Joe House and Nathan Hubbard dive into the evolving world of professional golf. House shares cautious optimism about exciting majors on the horizon, while Hubbard points out the sport's struggles with audience engagement and product-market fit. They dissect the disruptive influence of LIV Golf and its implications for the PGA Tour, along with upcoming changes like the TGL initiative. Their candid conversation reveals the complexities and challenges that lie ahead for golf's future.

Scott Van Pelt, the charismatic ESPN sportscaster known for his engaging interviews, discusses the evolving sports media landscape. He shares insights on colleagues Stephen A. Smith and Pat McAfee, revealing his passion for postgame coverage. The conversation dives into what makes someone a 'needle mover' in sports media and reflects on the importance of authenticity and audience connection. Scott also addresses the challenges the NBA faces in viewer engagement and shares humorous personal anecdotes, blending sports analysis with relatable storytelling.

Jon Kelly and Dylan Byers join John to chew over the biggest sports media stories of 2024: the forfeiture of WBD’s NBA rights, Comcast’s SpinCo, Stephen A. Smith’s history in the making, Netflix’s deal with the FIFA Women’s World Cup, and much 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

Constance Schwartz-Morini, the C.E.O. and co-founder of SMAC Entertainment, sits down with John to share her journey as a trailblazer in talent management, providing an inside look at the ins and outs of running a talent firm and managing a roster of high-profile clients including Deion Sanders, Michael Strahan, and Erin Andrews. She also sheds light on her bold decision to leave a promising career at the NFL—where she started as an assistant—to carve out her own path as an entrepreneur. 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