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, and Julia Alexander, a longtime media analyst, as they sit 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
Dec 30, 2025 • 1h 16min
Are the Kids… All Right?
Jim Steyer, the founder of Common Sense Media and a Stanford professor, dives into the pressing issues surrounding child safety in the tech landscape. He discusses the evolution of media ratings and the challenges posed by social media platforms. Steyer evaluates which tech leaders genuinely prioritize children's safety and stresses the importance of company values in shaping outcomes. He also touches on his upcoming podcast, his influential Stanford class, and shares insights on his brother Tom's gubernatorial campaign, highlighting their family's dedication to public service.
10 snips
Dec 26, 2025 • 52min
Media’s ’25 Crisis of Nerve
Join Julia and Dylan as they dissect the tumultuous media landscape of 2025. They kick off with the controversy surrounding Bari Weiss's pulled segment on '60 Minutes' and its implications for credibility. With discussions on David Ellison’s Warner Bros. bid and Trump's undeniable impact, the dialogue highlights pressures on legacy media outlets. They explore the clash between youthful leadership and institutional norms, while also celebrating the rise of independent creators and the playful side of new media tools. It's a mix of critique and optimism!
Dec 23, 2025 • 1h 11min
Katie Couric Goes Direct
In a captivating discussion, veteran journalist Katie Couric reflects on her illustrious career, revealing the challenges of transitioning to digital media and the importance of authenticity in today’s landscape. She shares insights on interviewing powerful figures like Donald Trump, the impact of corporate pressure on journalism, and her mission with Katie Couric Media to combat misinformation. Couric also opens up about her candid memoir and the personal growth it sparked, making this conversation a must-listen for media enthusiasts.
Dec 19, 2025 • 40min
Media’s Anxiety Index
Join a lively discussion as industry experts explore the media's anxiety index, focusing on the rise of subscription models and the impact of the FAST revolution. They debate the battle between niche strategies versus scale, analyze why top journalists stick to established outlets, and share insights on the potential pitfalls of AI in content creation. Catch intriguing perspectives on individual talent franchises and how views on major organizations are shifting, all tied together by fresh data from a revealing survey.
10 snips
Dec 16, 2025 • 51min
Sorkin’s Rules of Engagement
Andrew Ross Sorkin, founder of DealBook and co-host of CNBC's Squawk Box, shares insights from his dynamic media career. He discusses his daily routine, emphasizing quality over quantity in journalism. Sorkin reveals his interview techniques, highlighting empathy as a crucial tool for engaging tough guests. He shares anecdotes about his most impactful interviews, including with Elon Musk, and dreams of inviting the Pope to the DealBook Summit. Aspiring journalists will appreciate his advice on specialization and audience engagement.
38 snips
Dec 12, 2025 • 59min
The Iger-Altman Alliance
Disney's partnership with OpenAI could revolutionize fan interactions by licensing over 200 characters for user-generated content. The hosts debate the implications of the WBD bidding war, comparing Paramount and Netflix's strategies amid regulatory challenges. They also tackle Netflix’s growth hurdles in an era of UGC platforms. Nostalgia for traditional media meets the reality of industry consolidation, while Disney's ongoing legal battles highlight the struggle over IP rights. Can licensing deals shape the future of digital content creation?
13 snips
Dec 9, 2025 • 1h
Can Yahoo Survive in a Hyper-Niche World?
Jim Lanzone, CEO of Yahoo, shares insights into the company's turnaround since its acquisition by Apollo. He discusses Yahoo’s strategy focused on finance, sports, and mail, emphasizing the importance of loyal users and modern revenue streams. Lanzone delves into Yahoo’s AI ambitions, addressing both its threats and opportunities in the evolving digital landscape. He highlights the company's strengths in performance advertising and potential growth in sports and finance, while exploring Yahoo's brand identity as a valuable consumer product.
Dec 6, 2025 • 5min
Introducing How We Made Your Mother Season 2!
Join Josh Radnor and Craig Thomas as they dive into the nostalgic world of How I Met Your Mother, exploring behind-the-scenes stories and the show's philosophical moments. They share excitement about joining the Office Ladies Network and tease upcoming guests like Joe Manganiello and Bryan Cranston. Fans are encouraged to connect through voice messages, showcasing the show's global impact. It's a heartfelt rewatch filled with laughter, love, and insights into storytelling that resonates two decades later.
Dec 5, 2025 • 1h 1min
Substack’s Lizza Problem & Spotify Wrapped Revelations
Dive into the chaotic Nuzzi-Lizza saga, where journalism blurs with public drama. Explore how Substack's lack of editorial oversight fuels blog feuds and the consequences for both writers. Switch gears to Spotify Wrapped, revealing its role in personal identity and social sharing. Discover the viral marketing genius behind Spotify and why it triumphs over Apple Music. Finally, consider the lessons for creators about authenticity and the risks of chasing attention in the digital age.
32 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 1h 5min
Elon, Zohran & The New Politics of Influence
McKenna Kelly, a Senior Writer at Wired, dives into the fascinating intersection of politics, internet culture, and technology. She discusses how Elon Musk's influence reshaped political narratives and the shift from traditional press to influencer-driven coverage. McKenna highlights how online fandoms can energize campaigns, citing Zohran Mamdani's grassroots success. With creators now seen as credible sources, she explores the challenges reporters face in maintaining objectivity while navigating these new dynamics. It's a reflection on the evolving landscape of political media.
