The Press Box

Michael M. Grynbaum, a New York Times media correspondent and author of 'Empire of the Elite,' dives into the rich history of Condé Nast, illuminating its role in shaping American media with iconic publications like Vogue and Vanity Fair. He discusses the company's struggles in the digital age and the transformative influence of figures like Tina Brown and Anna Wintour. The conversation also touches on the decline of local film critics, emphasizing the challenges faced by traditional journalism amidst evolving media landscapes.

Kirk Herbstreit, ESPN college football analyst and former Ohio State quarterback, joins to share insights on Lee Corso's legendary impact on College GameDay. He reminisces about the special bond he formed with Corso and how they shaped the show's unique charisma. The conversation dives into the evolution of college football broadcasting and the emotional connections forged in sports media. Herbstreit reflects on the joy of fatherhood and cherishes the simple moments that enhance family bonds, all while anticipating the start of a new season.

Ed Werder, a veteran reporter who covered the Cowboys in the ’90s for ESPN and the Dallas Morning News, shares fascinating insights into the competitive landscape of the Cowboys' beat. He reflects on unforgettable moments, including interactions with legends like Charles Haley and Michael Irvin. The discussion includes the evolution of sports media, the impact of the Cowboys' branding, and how Jerry Jones navigated relationships with reporters. Nostalgia for the '90s era shines through as they recount memorable Super Bowl victories and behind-the-scenes stories.

Nostalgia meets modern media as the hosts share memories of classic childhood shows and toy with the absurdity of MSNBC's rebranding as 'MS Now.' They dive into the shift in podcasting, discussing the decline of narrative formats and the rise of true crime simplicity. Political strategy is explored through Gavin Newsom's quirky social media antics. Enjoy a light-hearted take on a chaotic sheep escape in Chicago, complete with playful puns. It's a blend of humor, media critique, and reflections on evolving storytelling!

The hosts kick off with a humorous dive into Connecticut's hot dog scene, elevating street food to cultural significance. They dissect the buzz around Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift's podcast collab, exploring the effects of celebrity on media dynamics. A conversation on Jimmy Pitaro's leadership at ESPN reveals the network's evolving talent strategies. The episode rounds out with amusing commentary on political media and the quest for the worst question asked at the White House, blending serious insights with lighthearted banter.

Jimmy Pitaro, Chairman of ESPN, shares insights into his leadership role, including the launch of ESPN’s direct-to-consumer app. He discusses massive new deals with the NFL and WWE, emphasizing how these partnerships are set to boost revenue and viewer engagement. Pitaro also addresses the balance between hiring talent and developing it within the company. The conversation dives into ESPN's preparations for its first Super Bowl and the innovative strategies being implemented to adapt to the evolving landscape of sports media.

The hosts kick off with a discussion about threats to the Voting Rights Act and Texas redistricting. They delve into ESPN's significant new deals with the NFL and WWE, exploring the implications for broadcasting rights and viewer access starting in 2026. The conversation shifts to the evolving NBA media landscape, spotlighting Shams Charania's impact since Woj retired and the challenges LeBron James faces in maintaining his media influence. They wrap up by sharing insights on the New York Post's expansion into Los Angeles.

The hosts recount their electrifying experience at SummerSlam, diving into the unique atmosphere and storytelling of wrestling. They explore the groundbreaking ESPN-NFL deal that integrates betting features, raising questions about its impact on media. The departure of notable figures from The Washington Post signals a shift in publishing, while nostalgia sparks a humorous discussion on a presidential fitness council. Personal reflections on used books and heartfelt memories with family add a warm touch, culminating in a playful pun guessing game.

Bomani Jones, host of The Right Time and a former ESPN personality, dives into the recent departure of Shannon Sharpe from ESPN and its implications for sports media. He discusses the troubling gambling allegations surrounding Gilbert Arenas and the shifting landscape of sports television. The conversation highlights the rise of niche content versus traditional formats, the challenge of balancing quantity and quality in media production, and how audience behavior is evolving. Finally, Jones shares amusing personal anecdotes, including a memorable Super Bowl experience.

The hosts dive into the legal battle between Hulk Hogan and Gawker, highlighting the complexities of celebrity legacies. They discuss the ramifications of Bill Belichick's new role as a college coach as he prepares for a significant career shift. The conversation also touches on the ongoing staff exodus at the Washington Post and what it signals about the current state of journalism. With a mix of humor and insight, they analyze obituaries that reflect the tangled lives of public figures and critique media's evolving landscape.