
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

8 snips
Dec 16, 2024 • 49min
The Media Makes Amends With Donald Trump, NFL Audio, and an Icelandic Christmas Tradition
Delve into the intriguing intersection of sports and politics as key sports podcasters opt out of interviews with Kamala Harris's campaign. Discover the media's unexpected settlement with Donald Trump and how it affects coverage. NFL highlights take center stage with Greg Olsen’s debut in the booth, while personal health disclosures spark ethical debates in journalism, especially regarding Randy Moss. Finally, embrace the festive spirit with an exploration of Icelandic Christmas book-giving traditions that reveal the joy of reading during the holidays.

16 snips
Dec 12, 2024 • 1h 15min
Covering the NYC Suspect, Bill Belichick’s TV Rehab Flopped, and the New Woj Bomb
The podcast dives into the media portrayal of suspect Luigi Mangoni and critiques sensationalism in crime reporting. Bill Belichick's failed TV stint is discussed, highlighting his return to coaching. Nick Saban makes his debut in sports commentary, showcasing his unique style. The hosts debate the evolving landscape of NBA broadcasting rights and the recent surge in college football players entering the transfer portal. They also talk about accountability in sports teams, spurred by candid comments from a Philadelphia Eagles player.

8 snips
Dec 9, 2024 • 1h 1min
Pete Hegseth's Trial by TV, Why College Football Wasn't Ruined, and the Story That Inspired ‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation’
The hosts dive into fascinating headlines, including the twist-filled investigation of a healthcare executive's murder. They dissect college football's new playoff system and its ripple effects on fan engagement. A nostalgic look at how a magazine article inspired ‘National Lampoon’s Christmas Vacation’ sparks laughter and reflection. The conversation touches on the challenges facing TV news and explores the intersection of media narratives and societal issues. With humor and insight, they engage listeners in current events and memorable storytelling.

12 snips
Dec 6, 2024 • 1h 8min
Joel’s Opening Thoughts, College Football’s Playoff Endgame, and a New Theory About Trump’s Media Advantage
Joel Anderson, a contributor to The Ringer, shares his sharp insights on current sports and media events. He discusses the Woj bomb about Adrian Wojnarowski’s health scare and Jeff Bezos's remarks on media ownership decisions impacting political coverage. The conversation shifts to college football, exploring the new playoff system and Michigan's celebration after beating Ohio State. Anderson also delves into Stephen A. Smith’s future at ESPN, reflecting on the changing landscape of sports commentary and its cultural significance.

20 snips
Dec 2, 2024 • 1h 2min
Kamala Harris’s Campaign Has No Regrets, How We Consume News Now, and a Report From the Cowboys-Giants Game
The hosts share hilarious Thanksgiving memories and a recap of the Cowboys-Giants game, highlighting quirky stadium experiences. They dive into Kamala Harris's campaign reflections, discussing missed opportunities and media strategies. The evolution of news consumption is explored, emphasizing the shift towards snack-sized content and its impact on journalism. The touching tribute to the late columnist Rudy Martzke adds depth, while playful segments like the Overworked Twitter Joke keep the conversation lively.

Nov 27, 2024 • 59min
Interviewing O.J., Covering the Olympic Bombing, and Hosting 'SportsCenter' in Its Golden Age With Fox's Chris Myers
In this conversation, Fox Sports broadcaster Chris Myers shares his remarkable journey from an enthusiastic sports fan to a prominent figure in media. He recounts interviewing legends like Muhammad Ali and Mike Tyson, including the infamous O.J. Simpson interview that shifted from football to deeper personal issues. Myers also reflects on his time at ESPN's 'SportsCenter' during its golden days and discusses the ethical challenges of covering controversial figures, offering a fascinating glimpse into the intricacies of sports journalism.

Nov 25, 2024 • 1h 1min
Cormac McCarthy’s Muse, How to Trick an NFL Insider, and Why People Are Tuning Out the News
Dive into the intriguing world of Cormac McCarthy, uncovering the deep influence a unique relationship had on his writing. Enjoy thrilling tales from an NFL game, punctuated by the chaos of college football excitement. The conversation shifts to local sports commentary's theatrical flair, complete with humorous pranks from former coaches. In a light-hearted twist, they discuss the absurdity of news avoidance and the social awkwardness of travel. Finally, they tackle the cultural shift away from cable news, reflecting on its emotional impact and the media's role in our lives.

Nov 22, 2024 • 1h 3min
The Joe and Mika Crisis, an ‘Around the Horn’ Funeral, and Watching College Football in 2024
A lively discussion unfolds about the controversial meeting between media figures and Donald Trump, exposing the tension in modern journalism. Nostalgia hits as the cancellation of ESPN’s 'Around the Horn' is analyzed, sparking reflections on the evolution of sports commentary. They also dive into the future of college football broadcasting, examining how network changes affect game scheduling and viewer engagement. Soundbites from exciting games add flair, bringing a mix of humor and insight to the challenges in today’s media landscape.

Nov 18, 2024 • 51min
‘Inside the NBA’ Lives, the Tyson-Paul Fiasco, and Life on Bluesky
Delight in the news that 'Inside the NBA' will thrive on ESPN! The conversation ventures into Netflix's new live sports offerings, including the much-talked-about Tyson-Paul matchup. Bryan shares his quirky experience with the social media platform Bluesky, while they pay tribute to former NFL coach John Robinson. The Rock snagging GQ’s Entertainer of the Year title adds some fun, alongside witty segments like the Overworked Twitter Joke of the Week. Dive into this blend of sports, media, and entertainment commentary!

Nov 14, 2024 • 53min
The Twitter Exodus Begins, the Return of the Trump News Cycle, and Mike Tyson vs. Jake Paul
The hosts dive into the social media shifts as celebrities abandon Twitter for newer platforms. They analyze Donald Trump's relentless media presence, discussing the interplay of politics and entertainment. A spotlight shines on the intriguing boxing match between Mike Tyson and Jake Paul, exploring their contrasting careers and the appeal of celebrity bouts. The episode wraps up with a humorous take on The Onion's clever satire, highlighting its impact on contemporary discussions.