
The Press Box
The Ringer’s Bryan Curtis and David Shoemaker catch you up on the biggest media stories, from sports to politics and everything in between.
Latest episodes

Mar 10, 2025 • 1h 3min
Four NBA Media Meltdowns, Oscar Season for Democrats, and a Great Editor’s ‘Only in Journalism’
Tim Walz is making the media rounds, leading The Ringer’s Bryan Curtis and David Shoemaker to ask whether the Minnesota governor or Stephen A. Smith is more likely to run for president in 2028 (00:00). Then, the guys get into a series of media meltdowns, including the ongoing beef between Stephen A. and LeBron James (13:00), Charles Barkley vs. Kendrick Perkins (26:12), Draymond Green’s shameless self-promotion (35:08), Mark Cuban’s thoughts on the Luka Doncic trade (40:57), and more. Plus, the Overworked Twitter Joke of the Week, and Shoemaker Guesses the Strained-Pun Headline.Hosts: Bryan Curtis and David ShoemakerProducer: Troy Farkas Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

8 snips
Mar 7, 2025 • 1h 20min
The Curious Case of Shedeur Sanders, the L.A. Times’ Broken Bias Meter, and Farewell to ‘Around the Horn’
Hello, media consumers! Bryan and Joel return to discuss the State of the Union address (2:04). Then, they break down the press surrounding NFL draft prospect Shedeur Sanders and the Bias Meter (21:40). They close by remembering 'Around The Horn' and FiveThirtyEight (56:43).Hosts: Bryan Curtis and Joel AndersonProducer: Stefan Anderson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

8 snips
Mar 3, 2025 • 1h 12min
Conan and the Oscars, Trump and Zelensky, and More WaPo-Bezos Fallout
Hello, media consumers! Bryan and David kick off recapping the Oscars, including Conan O’Brien’s performance as host (0:34).Then they discuss the following stories from Washington:
Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky meeting in the Oval Office (18:39)
Finally having the Jefferey Epstein files (33:20)
The Washington Post losing over 75,000 subscribers (41:23)
Then in the ‘Notebook Dump’, they discuss Jimmy Johnson’s retirement from television (52:37) and former Biden officials' explanation of the 2024 election (58:09).Plus, the Overworked Twitter Joke of the Week and David Shoemaker Guesses the Strained-Pun Headline.Hosts: Bryan Curtis and David ShoemakerProducer: Brian H. Waters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Feb 27, 2025 • 1h 21min
Jeff Bezos Vs. The Washington Post, When NFL Insiders Attack, and the Remaking of MSNBC
Dive into the power struggle of Jeff Bezos's opinion overhaul at the Washington Post. Hear about the spicy rivalry between NFL insiders Ian Rapoport and Jordan Schultz, and catch insights on a new book about Joe Biden. The podcast also discusses Joy Reid's departure and the transformative shifts at MSNBC. Plus, enjoy a revealing interview with New York Mayor Eric Adams that tackles race and leadership in today's media climate!

Feb 25, 2025 • 59min
The Trump Dump Theory of News, Stephen A. for President, and an ‘Only in Journalism’ All-Timer
Dive into the chaotic world of media as the hosts unpack the overwhelming news generated by Donald Trump. They hilariously explore Stephen A. Smith’s surprising presidential odds and the absurdity of terms like 'Gulf of America.' Personal tributes to a revered journalist touch hearts, while the hosts navigate the evolving landscape of media and politics. With a mix of playful banter and sharp insights, they also celebrate quirky moments in journalism, ensuring a blend of humor and thought-provoking conversation.

15 snips
Feb 18, 2025 • 1h 27min
'25 for 25': Nick Wright on the Future of Sports Debate
Nick Wright, a prominent Fox Sports 1 personality and passionate Chiefs fan, shares his thoughts on the rollercoaster of being a Chiefs supporter. He reflects on the team's villain status and emotional Super Bowl moments. Wright discusses transitioning from sports radio to TV and the evolving landscape between linear television and streaming. He offers unique insights into the dynamics of sports debate media and shares quick takes on fellow TV hosts, highlighting his journey and the broader changes in sports commentary.

10 snips
Feb 13, 2025 • 1h 14min
Trump Presses the Press, Luka Doncic and the Fans, and Introducing ‘25 for 25’
The hosts dive into Donald Trump’s full-on assault on the media, discussing its implications for journalistic independence. They also address the discontent among Luka Doncic's fans and the disconnect between sports writers and their audience. Notably, Jeffrey Toobin’s return to writing for the New York Times sparks conversation about accountability and ethics in journalism. The show wraps up with a sneak peek into an exciting new series celebrating 25 years in media, promising engaging lists and deep dives on sports commentary.

18 snips
Feb 10, 2025 • 1h 6min
The Best Super Bowl Review in the Business, the Trump-Politico Gambit, and the Death of the Book Blurb
Get ready for a whirlwind of insights! The Super Bowl review unveils Fox's hefty spending, highlights Tom Brady's standout moments, and examines Kevin Burkhardt's performance. The hosts humorously dissect the cultural impact of the game, from emotional player tributes to evolving broadcast techniques. Shifting gears, they explore Donald Trump's media moves and the decline of the book blurb, questioning its relevance in modern publishing. With sharp commentary and a sprinkle of humor, this discussion covers the intersection of sports, politics, and media.

4 snips
Feb 7, 2025 • 1h 29min
Super Bowl Stories From New Orleans, a Farewell to Hubie Brown, and Eagles Talk With CNN’s Kasie Hunt
CNN anchor Kasie Hunt, an avid Eagles superfan, shares her deep-rooted passion for the team and recounts her worst Eagles experience. She dives into the camaraderie of Eagles fans, including a secret society in Washington, and discusses her thoughts on the biggest rival. Kasie also reveals her all-time favorite player during rapid-fire questions, offering a unique perspective on what it's like to be part of the Eagles fandom as the Super Bowl approaches.

Feb 6, 2025 • 1h 12min
Chris Berman on Covering Super Bowls, ESPN’s Three Eras, and the Origin Story of ‘NFL Primetime’
Chris Berman, a veteran ESPN personality known for his dynamic hosting on NFL Primetime, shares his insights on covering an impressive 43 Super Bowls. He recounts the evolution of sports broadcasting and his journey through ESPN's three distinct eras. Berman reveals the initial concept behind NFL Primetime and recalls a tempting offer from NBC he turned down. The conversation wraps up with a fun lightning round, where he shares favorites from his career and a playful alternative dream job running a beverage cart at Pebble Beach.
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