

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

Mar 20, 2025 • 1h 14min
A Contentious White House Correspondents’ Association Dinner, Jackie Robinson and the Defense Department, and a Buyout Bloodbath in Chicago
The podcast dives into the contentious environment of the White House Correspondents' Association Dinner during the Trump era. It discusses the controversial removal of Jackie Robinson's military story from the Defense Department's website, sparking debates on historical representation. The hosts ponder if March Madness is losing its charm, reflecting on its evolution and the impact of gambling. Lastly, they unpack the Chicago Sun-Times' struggles amid buyouts, emphasizing the challenges and importance of diverse voices in journalism today.

Mar 17, 2025 • 50min
John Feinstein and March Madness, News From The New Yorker, and Gutting the Voice of America
Hello, media consumers! Bryan and David kick off the week by discussing Donald Trump’s dismantlement of the U.S. Agency for Global Media, which oversees the Voice of America (0:45). Then they get into the Old Guy’s Still Got It Segment with sounds from Rick Pitino (8:40), Tom Izzo (10:30), and Dick Vitale (14:20). Afterward they discuss Michael Wilbon’s tribute to John Feinstein (16:20). Later in the Notebook Dump they discuss the changes happening at The New Yorker (38:42).Plus, the Overworked Twitter Joke of the Week and David Shoemaker Guesses the Strained-Pun Headline.Hosts: Bryan Curtis and David ShoemakerProducers: Jessie Lopez and Brian H. Waters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

8 snips
Mar 13, 2025 • 1h 10min
The Horrors of NFL Free Agency, Michelle Obama and Gavin Newsom Pivot to Podcasts, and Remembering John Feinstein
Hello media consumers! "Bryan and Joel kick off the show with J-School during which they discuss Monday’s topics, including Stephen A. Smith vs. Tim Walz for the 2028 democratic nominee, sources calling after a Kendrick Perkins story, and more (1:24)They then get into the following headlines:
Reflecting on John Feinstein’s legacy including his book, ‘A Season on the Brink’ (16:36)
NFL free agency week in America (24:55)
Michelle Obama and Gavin Newsom launching podcasts (43:38)
Three pieces of audio that may make you smile, laugh, or furrow your brow (57:10)
Hosts: Bryan Curtis and Joel AndersonProducer: Brian H. Waters Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mar 10, 2025 • 1h 1min
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 18min
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 10min
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 19min
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 • 57min
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 25min
'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 12min
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.