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
9 snips
Aug 5, 2025 • 42min
Katie Drummond’s New 'Wired' Order
Katie Drummond, the Global Editorial Director of Wired, discusses her transformative vision for the magazine, turning it into a sharp critique of technology's social impact. She highlights the importance of original reporting and Wired's strategy to adapt to today's media landscape. The conversation addresses AI's looming threat to journalism, the need for accountability in tech narratives, and the role of global collaboration in shaping powerful storytelling. Drummond emphasizes a human-centered approach as journalism evolves amidst rapid technological changes.
Aug 1, 2025 • 1h 1min
WSJ vs. The Times & Media After Murdoch
Dive into the intense rivalry between the Wall Street Journal and The New York Times as they navigate Trump's legal dramas. Explore how editor Emma Tucker is reshaping the Journal to challenge its formidable competitor. Discover the future of journalism in a post-Murdoch world and the changing dynamics of talent acquisition among major media outlets. Delve into the impact of social media on public relations and the broader implications of media polarization on balanced reporting.
7 snips
Jul 29, 2025 • 57min
The Vox Media Doctrine
Jim Bankoff, CEO of Vox Media, provides insights into the company's evolution and current $500 million valuation, half of its previous worth. He discusses the importance of talent-driven content and the central role of podcasts in their strategy. The conversation highlights the enduring value of legacy print publications and how Vox is navigating industry challenges like A.I. Bankoff emphasizes maintaining independence and quality amid a rapidly changing media landscape, addressing the complexities of media business valuations and the ongoing significance of print.
Jul 25, 2025 • 53min
Bari Deal Heat & Trump v. Murdoch
The podcast dives into the media's latest drama, including South Park's hilarious take on Trump and Paramount's financial fallout. The complex relationship between Trump and Rupert Murdoch unfolds, revealing high-stakes legal battles. Bari Weiss's ambitious valuation target for The Free Press prompts discussion on the future of independent journalism. Tech giants like Elon Musk reshape political landscapes, while the influence of media moguls sparks debate on content creation and audience engagement. Expect humor, insights, and a vibrant exchange of ideas all around!
18 snips
Jul 22, 2025 • 44min
Substackonomics
In this engaging discussion, an anonymous investment banker specializing in media uncovers the recent $100 million investment in Substack, now valued at a staggering $1.1 billion. They explore the implications for independent journalism and the platform’s evolution towards sustainable business models. The conversation highlights Substack's potential to revolutionize media monetization, the talent migration from traditional outlets, and the challenges of adapting to a changing digital landscape. Tune in for a glimpse into the future of media platforms!
19 snips
Jul 18, 2025 • 60min
Substack’s $1B Paper Trail & The Weiss Effect
A lively discussion explores Substack's $1.1 billion valuation and its implications for the creator economy. The conversation dives into Apple's bold strategy in acquiring Formula One broadcasting rights and its potential impact on U.S. sports engagement. Exciting debates unfold about the contrasts between traditional media and digital innovation, including the allure of alternative voices in journalism. The hosts also share personal anecdotes about favorite live sports experiences and the charm of in-person events, adding a humorous touch to their insights.
4 snips
Jul 15, 2025 • 46min
F1’s Apple Pie & ESPN’s Austerity Era
John Ourand, a seasoned media expert, joins to explore Apple's ambitious $150 million bid for F1’s U.S. media rights. They delve into how this bid signals Apple's growing stake in live sports and contrast it with ESPN’s decision to step back amid financial constraints. The conversation further analyzes the evolving sports broadcasting landscape, particularly the changing viewer habits driven by streaming services. Insights into the future of sports viewership and the challenges faced by traditional broadcasters make for a gripping discussion.
11 snips
Jul 11, 2025 • 1h 5min
Google’s Kill Switch & Sun Valley Signals
A.I. services like ChatGPT are reshaping Google’s search market, raising questions about the tech giant’s future. The annual gathering at the Allen & Co. conference highlights the importance of quality information and human connections in a digital age. Personal stories from vacations reveal the need for disconnecting from tech. Insights from the exclusive Billionaire Summer Camp showcase elite networking. Meanwhile, traditional media faces challenges adjusting to AI's influence, spurring discussions on credibility and innovative journalism strategies.
Jul 8, 2025 • 39min
Paramount’s Settlement Math & Murdoch’s Trump-Era Journal
Josh Dawsey, a Wall Street Journal reporter focusing on the White House and co-author of a book on the 2024 election, joins the discussion. He unpacks the surprising $16 million settlement between Trump and Paramount, a significant shift from Trump's initial $100 million demand. Dawsey also explores the Democrats' strategic challenges as they face Trump's looming influence, and delves into the contrasting media dynamics surrounding the Biden campaign versus Trump. It's a revealing look at the intertwining of politics and media as the 2024 election approaches.
5 snips
Jul 4, 2025 • 41min
The Creator Economy's Indie Illusion
Julia Alexander and Dylan explore the unraveling of legacy media and the tough journey of independent journalists in the creator economy. They discuss the challenges of building sustainable businesses and the absurdities within the evolving media landscape. The conversation highlights the contrasting experiences of content creators and the importance of branding and authenticity in digital journalism. With humor, they examine niche engagement and the resurgence of blogging as a means of personal expression amid serious news.
