The Grill Room
Audacy | Puck
Finally, a media podcast about what’s actually happening in the media—not the over-sanitized, legal-and-standards-approved version you read online. Every Tuesday and Friday, join Dylan Byers, Puck’s veteran media reporter, as he sits down with TV personalities, moguls, political pundits and industry executives for raw, honest, sometimes salacious conversations about the business of media and its biggest egos. “The Grill Room,” an homage to the exclusive dining room within The Four Seasons where a generation of media executives consummated deals and traded gossip, is produced in partnership with Audacy Podcasts. The Grill Room is an extension of In the Room, Dylan’s private email for Puck, where he chronicles the intrigue and inside stories behind what’s really going on in the media industry—from the board room to the newsroom to the green room and everything in between. Subscribe here: https://puck.news/dylanbyers
Episodes
Mentioned books
Oct 7, 2025 • 45min
The MAGA Creator Industrial Complex
Chris Balfe, the Founder and CEO of Red Seat Ventures, dives into the thriving independent creator economy. He discusses how creators can scale and unlock new revenue streams while maintaining independence from traditional media. Balfe shares insights on the rapid Fox acquisition and highlights the service models that support diverse creators, spanning from Tucker Carlson to various voices in the industry. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity and differentiation, while also tackling the dual role of AI in both aiding and challenging creators.
Oct 3, 2025 • 1h 2min
Hollywood’s Sora 2 Panic & Zuck’s Vibes Play
The launch of OpenAI’s Sora 2 has Hollywood in a frenzy, with discussions on how it could redefine the media landscape. As Mark Zuckerberg introduces Vibes, the implications for content moderation and advertising become apparent. The ongoing YouTube TV-NBCU carriage dispute highlights the shifting power dynamics in media. The hosts explore whether studios should embrace fan remixes to enhance discovery and weigh the risks of misinformation from lifelike AI videos. Tune in for insights on the future of media and technology!
13 snips
Sep 30, 2025 • 58min
The $25M Bloomberg of Travel
Rafat Ali, founder of Skift, has transformed his company into 'the Bloomberg of travel,' raking in $25 million in revenue. He shares insights on the power of hyper-targeted B2B media and how to build a successful audience through innovative strategies like newsletters and events. Rafat discusses the unique monetization opportunities for vertical media compared to consumer outlets and emphasizes the role of storytelling and talent in media storytelling. He also touches on advice for budding founders in the evolving media landscape.
4 snips
Sep 27, 2025 • 2min
Introducing Simpsons Declassified with Nancy Cartwright
Dive into the wild world of Springfield with Nancy Cartwright, the voice behind Bart Simpson. Discover eerie predictions made by the show, alongside unbelievable fan theories that challenge reality. Hear exclusive behind-the-scenes stories, from jokes that never aired to unforgettable moments in the recording booth. With celebrity guests and interactive games, it's a lively exploration of one of TV's longest-running shows. Prepare for unexpected twists and flickers of nostalgia as you journey through the heart of The Simpsons!
Sep 26, 2025 • 1h 3min
Trump’s Free Speech Paradox
Explore the media drama surrounding Disney, Kimmel, and the FCC. Discover how Trump’s administration may leverage its influence on traditional media, while independent creators on platforms like YouTube face new challenges. Debate the shifting landscape of late-night TV and its relevance today. Hear about the implications of centralized broadcast versus decentralized platforms, and how past controversies shape current conversations about digital censorship and free speech risks. Join in on the fun discussions about emerging talent and the cultural dynamics of media!
Sep 23, 2025 • 34min
Disney’s Kimmel Pivot & Ellison’s WBD Lasso
Kim Masters, a veteran Hollywood reporter known for her insightful analyses of the entertainment industry, joins to tackle some hot topics. She discusses the implications of Jimmy Kimmel’s return to ABC and how industry pressures are influencing that decision. The conversation also delves into Bob Iger's standing in Hollywood and examines David Ellison's ambitious plans for WarnerMedia. Kim highlights the risks of media consolidation and shares intriguing insights into the current creative landscape.
Sep 19, 2025 • 56min
Disney’s F.C.C. Fear Factor
Disney's puzzling choice to sideline Jimmy Kimmel under FCC pressure sparks a debate on media freedom and corporate integrity. The conversation takes a fascinating turn as the hosts explore public reactions and the implications for creative expression. They lighten the mood with a fun draft of media personalities, showcasing the stakes for industry leaders. The discussion also touches on The New York Times' subscription strategies and innovative plans involving AI and sports content, revealing how traditional media is adapting to new challenges.
37 snips
Sep 16, 2025 • 1h 28min
Meredith Kopit Levien’s New New York Times
Meredith Kopit Levien, C.E.O. of The New York Times, reveals her vision for transforming the publication into a vibrant lifestyle brand. She discusses leveraging AI for efficient journaling while keeping the human touch. The conversation dives into their strategy for reaching 15 million subscribers by 2027 and the success of The Athletic. Levien also highlights the evolution of media consumption, exploring the balance between business interests and editorial integrity, and emphasizes the importance of innovative advertising strategies.
14 snips
Sep 12, 2025 • 53min
Rupert’s Last Rodeo & CNN’s Zombie Era
Delve into the murky waters of media ownership as Rupert Murdoch's leadership transitions spark debates about the future of Fox and News Corp. The podcast contrasts The Atlantic's innovative strategies with CNN’s ongoing struggles amidst a shifting landscape. Explore how legacy pressures weigh on billionaire heirs and the rush to adapt to digital platforms. Plus, learn about the fascinating impact of YouTuber iShowSpeed on NFL viewership, shedding light on the changing dynamics of media consumption.
7 snips
Sep 10, 2025 • 26min
Lachlan’s Coup & The Murdoch Legacy
In this thrilling discussion, Peter Hamby, host of The Powers That Be podcast at Puck, invites Dylan Byers to unpack the dramatic succession saga of the Murdoch family. They delve into Lachlan Murdoch taking control of the empire while the other siblings cash out. The tension among family members echoes high-stakes drama, and they speculate on Lachlan’s contrasting leadership style and its impact on Fox News. The episode also touches on potential media ventures from James and Liz, highlighting the ever-evolving media landscape.
