Shows
Out of Our LeagueA Rivers Runs Through ItAs always, it was a jam-packed week in the world of football. Charles and Mike discuss Sherrone Moore being fired from Michigan and then arrested that same night, Notre Dame taking its bowl and going home, and the Irish-less College Football Playoff field. Then, in the pros, the Colts turn to... Philip Rivers?! The draft will be shorter, the refs will get more training, and the flag football momentum continues. Plus, Charles has YouTube TV fatigue, but there is a big update for sports fans! Jason's Wormbyte features his thoughts on Notre Dame and the World Cup Draw... a draw...
2025-12-1233 minOut of Our LeagueThe NBA is Back, You BetThe NBA is back... with a massive scandal. Charles and Mike react to Chauncey Billups and Terry Rozier being arrested for illegal gambling, and discuss what it means for the sports world in general. They stay in the association to discuss NBC's big opening night and Inside the NBA's ESPN debut. The World Series is set, but who is going to watch? Plus, Sean Payton disses his old quarterback and Woody Johnson disses his new one. Jason's Wormbyte on the latest La Liga drama, the eternal Lionel Messi, and the F1/Apple deal. Also, is Charles a fan of Mike's...
2025-10-2438 minOut of Our LeagueJeff Pearlman In The HouseWith Mike on vacation this week, Charles is joined by New York Times Best-Selling Author Jeff Pearlman to discuss some of his favorite subjects, including the Mets, the Jets, Walter Payton, and his upcoming book "Only God Can Judge Me: The Many Lives of Tupac Shakur". Then, Charles and Jeff discuss Bad Bunny headlining Super Bowl LX, the NFL's continued growth internationally, and the state of baseball as we enter the postseason. Plus, Jason's Wormbyte features a classic rant on the chaos at the Ryder Cup. We miss you Mike! Tune in next week for Mike's return AND another big...
2025-10-0238 minOut of Our LeagueNFL CoachellaThe draft blows into Titletown. Mike and Charles discuss the NFL's lucrative accomplishment of turning what once was a meeting into the world's largest rotating sports festival. Is this ESPN's last Draft? The NBA and NHL Playoffs begin. The guys wonder if they are too long for the sport's best interest? Jason's Wormbyte gives Rory some overdue love and Charles's memories of Don Mischer, the great Super Bowl Halftime Producer/Director, who died this week at 85.
2025-04-2237 minOut of Our LeaguePlanting the FlagMike and Charles discuss the postgame brawls that occurred at several CFB games across the country on Saturday. Gus Johnson goes falsetto, Jameis looks to a higher authority to help out his battle with turnovers, Eberflus exits Chicago, Week 15 in the NFL schedule is going to be different and the guys explain why. Plus MLB's new golden idea and Charles and Jason say farewell to Rudy Martzke and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week.
2024-12-0333 minOut of Our LeaguePonder the PreseasonMike, Charles, and Jason talk about some changes for the major broadcast networks for the upcoming NFL season. Plus the Venu ruling, Charles shares some funny stories from a preseason broadcast seminar and of course, the Dr. Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week.
2024-08-2335 minOut of Our LeagueThe Flame Still BurnsMike, Charles and Jason talk about how much everyone is loving these Olympic Games and why. NFL: punishment for Jim Harbaugh? Prevailing in the Sunday Ticket case. Charles Barkley unretires, now what? Plus the Dr. Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week.
2024-08-0835 minOut of Our LeagueBaseball has a Pants ProblemYes they do. Mike and Charles discuss the new MLB uniform controversy plus Mike unpacks the economics and implications of the new whopping NFL salary cap. Plus legendary Sports Illustrated journalist Peter King is retiring and Charles recalls a few stories of working with him when he started in TV. Jason's Wormbyte on the new Apple TV Plus series on the Patriots and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week and a Costanza cameo!
2024-02-2724 minOut of Our LeagueDoes Anybody Care about Tradition in College Football Anymore?Bad week for the Pac 12 and the USWNT. Mike and Charles discuss the fallout. Plus Jason’s Wormbyte and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the week. Enjoy!
2023-08-0826 minOut of Our LeagueA Watershed Moment in Sports BroadcastingIn this episode; Doris Burke and Doc Rivers have been unofficially named to join Mike Breen on ABC/ESPN's lead NBA broadcast booth. Mike and Charles talk about what they like and what they don't about the new team. Lillard, Verlander and how player empowerment matters in the NBA and MLB. The Peyton/Hackett/Rodgers throw down, the under the radar new policy from the NFL on sexual misconduct. Jason's Wormbyte on the Pac 12, Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week and a fun behind the scenes Bo Schembechler story. Enjoy!
2023-08-0239 minOut of Our LeagueWashington Bids Farewell to Mr. SnyderBusy show. Snyder out. Harris in. Mike and Charles talk about the new regime in Washington and ask the question: was he the worst owner in NFL history? Plus Messi in Miami, Mbappe for how much??? Is ESPN for sale and if they are bought by a league what does this mean for sports journalism? Does a running back even matter in the NFL anymore? HBO gets the Hard Knocks they wanted. Jason's Wormbyte on the Women's World Cup and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the week.
2023-07-2635 minOut of Our LeagueA Dark Day for Sports JournalismMike and Charles discuss the decisions by the NY and LA times to significantly scale back their sports coverage plus a baseball report card at the all star break and 'Oops she did it again', Britney and Wemby have a run in in Vegas. Jasons' Wormbyte and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week. Enjoy.
2023-07-1130 minOut of Our LeagueESPN, What Are You Thinking?Mike and Charles provide their take on the bloodletting at ESPN, the new NFLPA leader and NFL gambling suspensions. Plus why the NBA offseason is the most interesting, Qatar buys into Washington sports, Jason's Wormbyte on Ted Lasso and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week. Enjoy!
2023-07-0536 minOut of Our LeagueIt's a Hard Knock(s) LifeFour NFL teams are obligated to say yes to NFL Films and HBO but none of them want it. Mike and Charles discuss the history and future of the groundbreaking show. Plus Michael Jordan’s big payday and why Rob Manfred is his own worst enemy. All that plus Jason’s Wormbyte on a Sky Sports announcing legend and no Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week???
2023-06-2237 minOut of Our LeagueStan, Slots and PepThe Nuggets, Golden Knights and Man City were all crowned champions this week. Mike and Charles discuss how they got there, how Vegas has become a dominant sports town in a very short time, the success of Stan Kroenke and the Saudi's influence on an ever changing economic sports landscape. Plus Jason's Wormbyte on why the US Soccer team needs to hire Pep Guardiola now and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week. Enjoy!
2023-06-1429 minOut of Our LeagueA Bogey for the PGA TOURMike and Charles discuss the shocking announcement of the PGA TOUR/LIV Golf merger and break down the ramifications and the unknowns, and there are many. In light of big coaching hires for big dollars this week in the NBA they continue their conversation about the value of leadership. Jason's Wormbyte focuses on the media ramifications of the PGA TOUR/LIV deal and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week. Enjoy!
2023-06-0732 minOut of Our LeagueLeadership Eats Talent for BreakfastReflecting off the Miami Heat's improbable Game 7 victory and a debate in the postgame between Shaquille O'Neal and Charles Barkley on whether coaches matter, Mike shares what great leadership and coaching looks like for championship teams. And that was the last show for Tim Kiely, the Producer of Inside the NBA, retiring this week; Charles talks about how he revolutionized television. Plus, Jason's Wormbyte on what's at stake to be a fan and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week. Please like and subscribe!
2023-05-3136 minOut of Our LeagueThe Joy of Sports Comes with a CostMike and Charles discuss the emotional highs of the past week in sports juxtaposed to the economic underbelly of a competitive industry. Plus they take you inside the decisions from the NFL’s May meeting including the ramifications of Thursday Night Football flexible scheduling. Jason’s Wormbyte on a crossroads for RSN’s and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the week.And a reminder to Please like and subscribe.
2023-05-2450 minOut of Our LeagueThe Spurs, Peacock & Brian Windhorst in ParisThe Spurs, Peacock and Brian Windhorst in Paris....Mike and Charles discuss the Spurs winning the Victor Wembenyama lottery, the NFL awarding Peacock an NFL Playoff game and ESPN's Brian Windhorst's memorable interview, plus Jason's Wormbyte on college football reform and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week
2023-05-1741 minOut of Our LeagueEverything you WANT and NEED to know about the NFL Regular Season ScheduleThe NFL regular season schedule gets released Thursday Night, and many changes are taking place. Charles' experience sitting in the room in years past informs us unpacking the process, the evolution, the competitive aspect, who's impacted how, and the NFL's attempts to turn it into a media event. Plus, Jason's Wormbyte on the expanded College Football Playoff and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week.
2023-05-1145 minOut of Our LeagueIs Steph better than LeBron?it's a dream second round playoff scenario for the NBA. Mike and Charles discuss ratings, injuries, whether the regular season even matters, was the Bucks season a failure, and compare the legacies of Steph and LeBron. Plus a quick post mortem of the NFL Draft. Jason's Wormbyte on the Run for the Roses and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week.
2023-05-0334 minOut of Our LeagueA True NFL InsiderOn the eve of the NFL Draft Mike and Charles welcome their very first guest, Kara Henderson Snead, former NFL Network anchor and reporter and wife of Los Angeles Rams General Manager Les Snead. Plus Jason's weekly Wormbyte on Wrexham being promoted and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the week. Enjoy!
2023-04-2758 minOut of Our LeagueIt's Not Easy Being GreenMike and Charles disagree about whether the NBA should have suspended Draymond Green. Are the Commanders actually sold??? Now that MLB has improved the game, how do they fix their media strategy? Plus Jason's Wormbyte this week when it comes to soccer less is more and the MIke Smith Sports Moment of the Week. Please like and subscribe.....
2023-04-1936 minOut of Our LeagueThe Cuban Tanking CrisisCharles and Mike discuss the blatant tanking job by the Dallas Mavericks last week. What does the NBA do to protect the fans? and with the NBA playoffs scheduled to start two teams are fighting with themselves! Plus a look back at the Masters, Jason's Wormbyte and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week. Enjoy!
2023-04-1126 minOut of Our LeagueIs this the Inflection Point for Women's Sports on Television?Mike and Charles talk about the overwhelming ratings success of the Women's NCAA tournament as well as the historic amount of money paid out this week for an NWSL expansion franchise. Plus the Endeavor/WWE deal and a possible cheating schedule with the Arizona Cardinals. Jason's Wormbyte on the Masters and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week.
2023-04-0527 minOut of Our LeagueDid I Hear this Right.... ????MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred says baseball is open to changing their new rules midseason? Mike and Charles discuss why the NFL would never do that. The NFL Annual meeting includes efforts to improve Thursday Night Football and why Flex Scheduling is a bad idea, Commanders' bids are in, and Lamar Jackson’s options. Sports as soft power: Robert Kraft’s stand on antisemitism and the NHL Pride initiative. Why the Women's Final Four is so compelling. Jason's Wormbyte on why South Florida is the center of the basketball universe and Mike Smith versus Mark Cuban in the Mike Smith Spor...
2023-03-2939 minOut of Our LeagueBaseball Finally Hits a Home RunIt's our 50th episode! Japan says sayonara to the USA. Mike and Charles discuss the exciting conclusion of the World Baseball Classic, the impact of Shohei Ohtani, were the serious injuries to two front line players worth it, and how can MLB avoid being irrelevant until October? How has international competition affected the popularity of other sports and how the NFL is planning to have their moment on the global stage (Flag Football for the Gold?). March Madness is in full swing, the guys discuss the good and the bad and why does the NBA disappear? Plus Jason's Wormbyte o...
2023-03-2237 minOut of Our LeagueHaven't We've Seen this Movie Before?Charles and Mike discuss the eerie similarities of Brett Favre and Aaron Rodgers as the Packers Quarterback seems on his way to wearing green in the Big Apple. Mike breaks down the economics of NFL Free Agency and why state income tax matters. Hello Florida! The NBA punishes Ja Morant. Was it enough and where is Andrew Wiggins and will he be back this season? Why Gary Lineker may be the most popular man in the UK and Gianni Infantino extends his rule as the most powerful man in Soccer. Jason's Wormbyte focuses on an even longer World Cup...
2023-03-1631 minOut of Our LeagueI'm Mad as Hell and I'm not Going to Take it AnymoreMike and Charles discuss the Lamar Jackson situation, the NFL Combine (has it jumped the shark?), Ja Morant and what the NBA might do? Speaking of the NBA, could Adam Silver be the next CEO at Disney and are they similar jobs? A good week for Liverpool fans and Jason's Wormbyte features three things that normally don't go together. Plus the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week. Enjoy!
2023-03-0832 minOut of Our LeagueWhat if the NFL Ran the NBA?The NBA faces a variety of issues including the CBA, Load management and the approaching playoffs likely to be lower rated without LeBron James and the Los Angeles Lakers. Based on their experience at the NFL, Mike and Charles discuss how Roger Goodell and the NFL owners might approach these issues if they were in charge. Plus for years the NFL did not allow dual ownership but now they do and the Bucks have been sold to Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam. Why the change and what might this mean for the Bucks? Plus Jason's Wormbyte on the CW/L...
2023-03-0141 minOut of Our LeagueWhy Selling a Sports Franchise is like Selling a HouseWith all of the economic news of franchise sales and RSN insolvency, Mike provides insight on what is going on and how the NFL is insulated from what European soccer and MLB are experiencing. Plus, is the NBA headed for a lockout? and what a subpar event the NBA All Star Game has become. President's Day at the NFL is hardly a break and Charles explains why it was one of the busiest times of the year. Plus a good behind the scenes Rolling Stones story, Jason's weekly Wormbyte on Netflix's newest show and the Mike Smith Sports Moment...
2023-02-2239 minOut of Our LeagueBitch Better Have My Money...and a field worthy of the Super BowlMike and Charles lean on their own NFL experiences at the Super Bowl to talk all things from the big game from turf to officiating, halftime show and Fox....Plus the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week and Jason's Wormbyte paying homage to a giant in the sports media world who passed away on Super Bowl Sunday.
2023-02-1550 minOut of Our LeagueIt's Super Bowl Week but Everybody's Talking NBAMike and Charles talk about the seismic NBA trade deadline and the player entitlement that drove it.Plus Brady, Romo and Irvin working or not working on TV. It's Super Bowl Week and preparations are being made and NFL futures are being decided with new coaching hires. A reflection of the last Super Bowl in Phoenix and how will the halftime show turn out. Jason's weekly Wormbyte on Super Bowl memories and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week.
2023-02-1041 minOut of Our LeagueWhat the NFL Looks Like in 2030Mike and Charles weigh in on what might look like a very different NFL in just seven years time. They also have some observations from last weekend including why does a tech savvy league still use chains to measure a first down??? Jason stops by with his weekly Wormbyte on Apple's new series the War for Football plus the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week. This week's episode is brought to you by 80 for Brady coming soon to a theater near you!
2023-01-2539 minOut of Our LeagueThe NFL Playoffs: Dollars over SenseMike and Charles break down the NFL playoffs from economic, competition and media angles and how the league makes these decisions. An outage in London for one of the Premier League's biggest rivalries and a new deal for the LIV/CW. Plus Jason's Wormbyte on Netflix's new tennis show and the Mike Smith sports moment of the week. Enjoy!--
2023-01-1933 minOut of Our LeagueThe NFL ExhalesMike and Charles look back on a week where the NFL had to make some unprecedented decisions that could affect competitive balance. Will there be more changes going forward? They also unpack the League's strategy around playoff scheduling, dive into the annual head coaches losing their job after the season and Jason's Wormbyte breaks down the 100 most viewed shows of the year. Plus the Mike Smith sports moment of the week. Enjoy!
2023-01-1131 minOut of Our LeagueThe NFL's Worst FearCharles and Mike both draw on their experiences at the League and in Sports Media to look back and examine how the NFL and ESPN handled the life threatening injury to Damar Hamlin that occurred during the Bills/Bengals game on Monday night. They draw on comparisons from other sports and speculate how the league office will manage the coming weeks. Jason, who is a veteran of both ESPN and NFL Network, adds his POV to how ESPN handled the game, studio and Sportscenter broadcast.
2023-01-0639 minOut of Our LeagueNot Just Another Year End Sports EpisodeOur first annual Out Of Our League Awards! Eight categories from the best and worst in sports business and media. Also Mike and Charles have a take on the new Sunday Ticket deal, how the Carlos Correa/Mets deal is bad for baseball, the same ol' New York Jets and remembering Franco Harris. Plus Jason's year end Wormbyte on the key takeaways in sports media and the coveted Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Year. Enjoy!
2022-12-2348 minOut of Our LeagueSports are Messi and That's Why We Love ThemThat's a wrap on the World Cup. Mike and Charles examine the epic championship game from all angles including ratings, production and how this might impact the US market in the future. Wild finishes in the NFL with questionable officiating. Plus Sarver sells the Suns but Snyder remains, news and notes from this week's NFL Owners Meeting. Jason's Wormbyte and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week.
2022-12-2132 minOut of Our LeagueThe Commander Scandal in WashingtonMike and Charles unpack the latest report regarding the NFL and the Washington Commanders and share personal experiences dealing with the principles. News and notes from the Special League Meeting this week in Dallas include a new salary cap that is affected by the ambiguity of Sunday Ticket and a potential NFL Media sale. Thoughts on a very bad slate of national December games including the Cleveland Browns quarterback and what's the deal with these newly renamed NBA Awards. All this and Jason's Wormbyte remembering Grant Wahl who passed away this week at the age of 48 while covering the...
2022-12-1444 minOut of Our LeaguePrime TimeIn an episode that features topics from around the world of sports, Mike and Charles discuss the early viewership success of the World Cup and the positive aspects of the gender equity payouts. They then turn to the NFL to discuss the somewhat under the radar return of Deshaun Watson as well as flexible scheduling scenarios and how decisions made for television can have a negative impact on teams performance on the field. They get into the College Football Playoff and shout out their old colleague, Prime Time, who is now a Buffalo. Plus were deGrom, Verlander and Turner...
2022-12-0635 minOut of Our LeagueThere are No Dogs on the Streets of DohaJason joins Mike and Charles from Qatar and takes us inside the Broadcast Center and on the ground in Doha. They talk about Fox's approach to the World Cup as well as it's coverage throughout a huge sports weekend. NFL items include, why the country didn't get to see the thrilling conclusion of the Raiders/Seahawks game, why a great Thanksgiving led to a blah Sunday and Saturday mismanaging the clock on a Monday and of course, the Mke Smith sports moment of the week.
2022-11-3027 minOut of Our LeagueOn the ground live from the World Cup in Qatar!!!Jason joins us as our embedded reporter live from Doha, Qatar describing what it's like to walk the streets and why it takes 15,000 steps to get into the stadium. Then, Charles and Mike talk Thanksgiving Day… why the Lions keep playing, why Neil Young almost played Halftime, and why we'll see a lot of John Madden. They also squeeze in what happened behind the scenes to relocate the Bills game to Detroit, why Jeff Saturday's hiring will cause a policy change, the real problem with the Commanders situation now, and how Bob Iger's ascension at Disney is good news fo...
2022-11-2337 minOut of Our LeagueIt's not Manning, it's not Wednesday it's Saturday!Mike and Charles have off the radar observations on some bizarre events from the week in sports (Tom Brady/Alex Rodriguez/Ted Cruz) , the NBA's efforts around the Midterms, the fallout from Kyrie Irving's actions, the latest on the Commanders possible sale and the decision of Colts owner Jim Irsay to hire a Head Coach with no experience. They also discuss why Fenway Sports Group has put Liverpool up for sale and Jason's Wormbyte examines the Apple/MLS relationship. Plus a bad week in Philly and the Mike Smith sports moment of the week. Enjoy!
2022-11-0935 minOut of Our LeagueIt's Not Always Sunny in Philadelphia Mike and Charles talk about Monday's rain out forcing baseball Houston/Philadelphia vs NFL Houston/Philadelphia and predict which will rate higher. They also cover Niners fans owning LA, the NFL trade deadline and diva quarterbacks. Plus Kyrie Irving and the dysfunctional Nets, the class of Klay Thompson and a potential new NBA streaming deal. Jason's Wormbyte breaks down the new Big 12 deal and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week is no bullseye. Enjoy!
2022-11-0135 minOut of Our LeagueIs this the end for Dan Snyder?Mike and Charles break down the NFL's Fall meeting including what is going on in Washington and the results of the Stan Kroenke LA/St Louis relocation litigation settlement. They have mixed reviews on the new baseball playoff format and make quick predictions for the NBA season. Plus this week's Wormbyte has Jason talking about the fan experience at the NY Giants game and of course the Mike Smith sports moment of the week. Enjoy!
2022-10-1928 minOut of Our LeagueFour Sports, Four Different BusinessesIt's October and all four major American Sports Leagues are in play. Mike and Charles discuss how the League is reacting behind the scenes to the controversial officiating around Quarterbacks, proposed European expansion in the NFL, the Draymond Green incident and the immediate impact of Scoot and Webanyama for the NBA, the playoff scheduling and ear probing in MLB and a curious way to start the NHL season. This week's Wormbyte has Jason focusing on sports as the last gasp of broadcast television. And Mike and Charles close with the rise of Pickleball and the Mike Smith moment of...
2022-10-1240 minOut of Our LeagueA Scary Moment for the NFLMike and Charles discuss the ramifications of the Tua Tagovailoa concussion from Thursday Night's Game. They offer insight on the League Office Public Relations and Player Safety strategies going forward, discuss the risks of playing football on three days rest, and look at how new rights holder Amazon covered the injury and its aftermath throughout their broadcast. Then they pivot to MLB's new postseason format and why they think this is a smart move. Jason's weekly WormByte is on the inferiority of many college Athletic Directors and the Mike Smith Moment of the Week. Enjoy!
2022-10-0531 minOut of Our LeagueApple takes a bite out of Super Bowl HalftimeMike and Charles react to the Dolphins’ handling of Tua Tagovailoa’s injury and what it means for the NFL as a whole, the announcement of Rihanna as the first headliner of the Super Bowl Halftime Show sponsored by Apple Music, the NFL’s decision to reimagine the Pro Bowl, and more! Plus, a clock-management inspired “Worm Byte” from Jason Wormser, “In or Out,” and Trivia. Enjoy!
2022-09-2939 minOut of Our LeagueBillionaires Behaving BadlyMike and Charles react to Robert Sarver announcing that he is starting the process of selling the Phoenix Suns and Mercury, while drawing parallels to the NFL's ongoing investigation of Commanders Owner Daniel Snyder. Then they discuss Amazon's Thursday Night Football debut, ESPN's Monday Night Football Doubleheader, MLB storylines in The Big Apple (TV) including MLB being the Judge on how you might see history, and more! Plus, a "Worm Byte" from Jason inspired by his struggle to watch Amazon's TNF and DirecTV's Sunday Ticket, "In or Out," Trivia, and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week.
2022-09-2239 minOut of Our LeagueNFL Kicks Off While the Premier League Takes a PauseMike and Charles react to Week 1 of the 2022 NFL Season by discussing ESPN's new broadcast booth, high ratings, the impact of Dak Prescott's injury on the league's national TV schedule, and more! Then they discuss the pros and cons of the English Premier League canceling their weekend games due to the death of Queen Elizabeth. Plus, an NFL Redzone-inspired "Worm Byte," Charles almost derails "In or Out" with a bold statement about the US Open, Trivia, and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week.
2022-09-1540 minOut of Our LeagueIt Feels Good To FootballWith the 2022 NFL Season kicking off this week, Mike and Charles discuss what it is like working at the League Office, Network or Club as everybody returns to work, share insight into how the Kickoff Game became a marquee event on the league’s calendar, swap stories about working with this year’s halftime performer Ozzy Osborne, and more! Then they bring in Jason Wormser for his weekly “Worm Byte” on the expansion of the College Football Playoffs. Plus, “In or Out” questions regarding Tom Brady, Serena Williams, and Aaron Judge, Trivia, and the Mike Smith Moment of the Week.
2022-09-0732 minOut of Our LeagueBrowns, Dolphins, Oh My!Mike and Charles question whether the punishment fits the crime when it comes to Deshaun Watson's suspension ruling and the results of the NFL's decision on the Miami Dolphins. They put themselves inside the upcoming owners meeting to examine the intrigue and fallout. Then they bring in Jason Wormser for his weekly "Worm Byte" on the transformational moment in Women's Soccer. Plus, "In or Out," Trivia, the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week and a tribute to Vin Scully.
2022-08-0445 minOut of Our LeagueIs NFL+ a Plus?Mike and Charles react to the introduction of NFL+ and discuss a handful of other NFL financial topics including the Packers' latest financial report, Heinz Field becoming Acrisure Stadium, what it's like to work at the league during the offseason, and more. Then they discuss MLB's continued struggles and longtime sports media executive Jason Wormser joins the pod for a Sunday Ticket inspired "Worm Bite." Plus, "In or Out," Trivia, and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week.
2022-07-2752 minOut of Our LeagueJLo "Rocs" Halftime + Goodell Zooms to CongressMike and Charles dissect the controversies that arose from Jennifer Lopez's Halftime documentary on Netflix, react to Roger Goodell's chaotic appearance in front of Congress via Zoom, and discuss Gary Bettman missing the Stanley Cup trophy presentation due to COVID. Then they talk about F1's new rights deal with ESPN and Michael Rubin selling his ownership stake in the Philadelphia 76ers and New Jersey Devils. Plus, Table Z talks Kyrie Irving, "In or Out," Trivia, and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week.
2022-06-2951 minOut of Our League20. Is The PGA Missing the Cut?Mike and Charles react to a US Open clouded by the shadow of the LIV, break down Roger Goodell's decision to appear in front of Congress via zoom, while Dan Snyder declined to appear at all. Then they discuss the 2026 World Cup Host City selection process and the influence of NFL owners on the decision.Table Z talks about crowd rituals under the shadow of low Stanley Cup ratings. Plus "In or Out," Trivia, and the Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week.
2022-06-2346 minOut of Our League19. Apple Takes a Bite of MLSMike and Charles quickly run through the current media state of the NBA Finals and the upcoming Stanley Cup Final series. Mike breaks down the Rams' seemingly unlimited spending, why their "F Them Picks" strategy works, and how SoFi Stadium factors into the equation. Then they dive into MLS' massive 10-year deal with Apple by breaking down both the financial and production implications. They wrap the show by hearing why the Gen Z roundtable will not be paying to watch MLS on Apple, play a round of "In or Out," answer a Three-peat related trivia question, and name a new...
2022-06-1551 minOut of Our League18. Why?Mike and Charles talk about Mike's roller coaster of a week while winning another darts championship and losing in the stanley cup playoffs in the "Mike Smith Sports Moment of the Week".They also explain:WHY the NHL wants a Rangers Stanley Cup FinalWHY the NBA Finals may be struggling to build an audienceWHY there could be dissension among the owners in the NFL and optimism about diversity among NFL coaches/GMsWHY LIV could sustain itself by poaching golfers from the PGAThey finish...
2022-06-0946 minOut of Our League17. The Wide World of Sports on TVMike and Charles ponder why the Novak Djokovic vs. Rafael Nadal French Open match was so hard to find on TV and react to the pre-match drama at the Champions League Final. Then they come back stateside to discuss the NHL Playoffs, the NBA Finals and Tommy Pham's slam of Joc Pederson. They wrap up with a Table Z discussion of Fantasy Sports, "In or Out," an NBA Finals trivia question, and a new "Mike Smith of the Week."
2022-06-0147 minOut of Our League16. The NCAA's Latest MessMike and Charles discuss the current state of the NBA Playoffs and react to the latest news in European Soccer. Then they break down the Jimbo Fisher vs. Nick Saban feud before bringing on the Gen-Z roundtable to talk through how the NCAA can adapt to the new world of NIL. They wrap up the show with a round of "In or Out," go back in time for a Top Gun related trivia question, and name the first ever "Mike Smith of the Week."
2022-05-2543 minOut of Our LeagueHow the NFL stole ChristmasMike and Charles react to the 76ers’ disappointing end to their season and the Suns’ shocking Game 7 loss to Luka Dončić and the Mavericks. Then they break down the NFL’s Schedule Reveal, discuss which teams, and media partners, should be upset and who should be happy, and explain why the Christmas Day games may be bad news for the NBA. To end the show, Mike and Charles play NFL Commissioner-for-a-day and introduce some new voices on the show in the inaugural “Table Z” segment.
2022-05-1838 minOut of Our LeagueTom Brady signs with FOX, now what? Plus, how do you make the NFL Schedule?Mike and Charles react to Tom Brady's plan to join FOX once his playing career is over, break down what it's like to be in the room when the NFL Schedule is made, discuss Formula 1's successful weekend in Miami, a few longshots who beat the odds, and more!
2022-05-1143 minOut of Our LeagueHow can you prove a team is tanking?Mike and Charles debate what constitutes tanking in the wake of Hue Jackson alleging the Cleveland Browns tanked during the 2016-17 seasons. Mike laments about Embiid and his beloved 76ers and some suggestions on how to improve the NHL experience on tv.
2022-05-0447 minOut of Our LeagueWhy so many people watch the NFL draftIt's draft week and Mike and Charles give insight and info about what it takes to put the draft together. Also some NBA playoff talk that brings about this question: are you team Durant or team Barkley?
2022-04-2948 minOut of Our LeagueDoes familiarity breed contempt?Kyrie, Embiid, Trump and Shula and a Kevin Harlan promo for the ages. Mike and Charles discuss the advantages of the NBA playoff format and the different ways ESPN and TNT broadcast the sport. Also does anyone want to watch football in the spring?
2022-04-2035 min
Songscapes: Music and NatureEp. 25 - Dimitri Mugianis - Punk Rock and Self-LoveDimitri Mugianis fronted the New York based punk band, Leisure Class, known for their highly energetic shows and ‘Beat’ poetry inspired lyrics. After spending years wrestling with drug addiction Dimitri found his way to recovery and was inspired to create an organization that provided others with an opportunity to be a part of a support network. Cardea, draws upon Dimitri’s experiences in Gabon to visit a group that practices Bwiti. Drawing upon these traditions, Dimitri guides others through recovery and provides a place for self-love and personal growth. Thanks for listening and don’t forget to review...
2022-04-2000 minOut of Our LeagueShould all playoffs switch to a one and done format?Mike and Charles break down how leagues can increase viewership through the use of different playoff formats. Also some NBA talk and Nick's mistake that almost made Charles a Jet fan.
2022-04-0643 minOut of Our LeagueEver wonder what it is like to spend three days with 32 billionaires?Mike and Charles share stories from their experiences at the NFL annual meeting and what are the sports equivalents to the Oscar slap heard round the world.
2022-03-3050 minOut of Our LeagueWas this the right thing to do?Mike provides insight and reporting to examine the political and economic impacts of the decision of the Cleveland Browns to trade for Deshaun Watson. He and Charles also discuss the cultural aspects and how a segment of NFL fans may be offended. And what now at QB for some of these teams?
2022-03-2348 minOut of Our LeagueBrady is back. The QB carousel. Are the changes to baseball a good thing? And Donovan McNabb unknowingly delays a wedding.Mike and Charles dive into the economic impacts of all the QB news. Who won the broadcasting moves and are the changes to baseball really in the best interest of the sport.
2022-03-1645 minOut of Our LeagueGambling and the NFL. Rodgers stays and Wilson goes. TV free agency heats up and Apple says play ball.Mike and Charles discuss the Calvin Ridley suspension, its impact on gambling and the NFL. How do the latest QB moves affect the TV schedule? The latest on NFL broadcast booths and what the new Apple baseball deal could mean for the future of sports media.
2022-03-0946 minOut of Our LeagueWhat now for baseball? The NFL combine on TV and Mickelson's triple bogeyMike and Charles discusses both the financial and human costs of the MLB lockout and what it means for the future of professional baseball. Also the NFL combine on television and Phil Mickelson's legacy changing decision.
2022-03-0259 minOut of Our LeagueThe ESPN of Russia, NFL TV free agency and a bold predictionMike asks Charles to share his unique experience launching a sports network in Russia, then they discuss the motivation behind the Troy Aikman/ESPN rumors. Finally, Charles actually impresses us with how he would plug the hole in Fox's announcer booth.
2022-02-2650 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 24 – Adam Gardner – Guster and the Green Music MovementAdam Gardner knows how to bring a vision to life. As alt/rock band Guster’s guitarist and vocalist, and co-founder of the nonprofit Reverb, he has a passion for sharing the messages he believes in through music. Reverb’s mission is to use the cultural power of music to influence related industries, concert tours, and fans to make sustainable change happen. They do this by collaborating with artists – for example, Billie Eilish, Harry Styles, or the Dave Matthews Band – to create amazing ‘EcoVillages’ at their shows. Tune in to learn more about these EcoVillages and other cool projects of Adam’s, l...
2022-02-2335 minOut of Our LeagueThe greatness of NFL Films, next year's halftime show candidates and NBA All-Star weekendMike and Charles discuss the importance of NFL Films, why this year's halftime show hit all the notes and who should perform at next year's Super Bowl halftime show. Plus some prop bets and analysis for NBA All-Star weekend.
2022-02-1859 minOut of Our LeagueRoger sings, Philly debacle? Prince and what it's like to be at the big game.Mike and Charles share super stories from their experiences at the big game including a Prince story for the ages. They also argue about the winner of the Ben Simmons trade and much more on this weeks episode of Out of Our League.
2022-02-1159 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 23 – Sierra Hull – From Being an 8-year-old Virtuoso To 25 Trips (Around the Sun)This week on Songscapes, Charles takes us to Nashville, Tennessee to talk with singer, songwriter and multi-instrumentalist, Sierra Hull. Having picked up the mandolin at age 8, been mentored by Alison Krauss at 11, and debuted at Carnegie Hall at 12, the bluegrass virtuoso has long since been certain that the musician’s lifestyle was the one for her. Sierra talks about the strong community of musicians she’s always been surrounded by, working alongside her heroes like Sturgil Simpson and Béla Fleck, and how her approach to making music has changed and melded over time. She also dives into her lates...
2022-02-0943 minOut of Our LeagueOut Of Our League Ep.1Mike and Charles react to the Brian Flores situation, Tom Brady retirement, Washington Commanders and the all star games for both the NFL and NHL.
2022-02-0459 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 22 – Keb’ Mo’ – Trusting Your Purpose This week, host Charles Coplin interviews five-time Grammy-award winner and American Blues musician Keb’ Mo’! He discusses his views on environmental and social activism, concerns about plastic overflow, and the idea of finding other planets to colonize. He cares deeply about preservation, and points out that we cannot escape our consumptive lifestyles, so we must become aware of the impact of our daily choices.Despite how bad things can look, though, he remains an optimist about our collective future by sharing messages of hope and light in his songwriting. Keb’ Mo’ also dives into his musical journey, how he k...
2022-01-2639 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 21: Matthew Nelson – On Transformation in the Grand Canyon and the Great-Grandfather of Percussion Today, travel with Arizona Trails executive director Matthew Nelson along the Arizona trail, which spans 800 miles from the Mexico/U.S. border to Utah. Matthew helped complete the last 100 miles of the trail in his youth, which he credits as a turning point in his connection with the Southwestern landscape. In his early 20’s, he was launched into a career in Grand Canyon National Park. He tells the story of his transformative first experience with the Grand Canyon, and how that connection led him to create music with his group, Ongtupqa. If you’re curious to learn about clay perc...
2022-01-1933 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 20: Mason Runs Through – Folk-Punk and Interpreting Dinosaur National Park Meet punk musician and park ranger Mason Evan Runs Through III, also known as his stage name, Wounded Knee. Born in Minot, North Dakota, he is of the nearby Fort Peck Reservation in North East Montana and is a member of the Assiniboine (Nakoda) nation. He is currently based in Utah, where he lives and works as an interpretive ranger and environmental educator in Dinosaur National Monument. Mason also shares about his musical project, Wounded Knee, and how he “creates emotionally charged music for a world that’s forgotten how to feel.” Tune in to hear about his journey to wor...
2022-01-1229 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 19: Gregg Hill - Ancient Beings, Humidity and MoonwalkingCharles Coplin catches up with his friend Gregg Hill to chat about his latest release, Born Liar. Gregg has been making music since the 90’s and has spent most of his time focused on live performance and honing his songwriting craft. With a recent move to New Orleans, Gregg is embracing the artistic freedom that he has discovered in his new community. The latest record is inspired by long road trips to western landscapes- to escape the doldrums of the pandemic, and contemplating what stories from the past can be pulled into the present to ho...
2022-01-0535 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 18: The Heavy Hours - Winter in Woodstock and Co-Writing with The Black KeysCincinnati, OH based Folk-Rock outfit, The Heavy Hours just released their latest ep, Wildflowers in August. This collection of songs was recorded in Woodstock NY, in the dead of winter. With two feet of snow on the ground, and in a small mountain town, the band was cut off from the outside world. And this was a good thing. Recording and making the best music they could was the only thing on their mind. Simone Felice, of the the Felice Brothers, produced the EP and helped guide the band in their journey to find a sound that...
2021-12-0825 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 17: Parsonsfield - Songscape Guinea Pigs and Russian Dolls of BeautyThe guinea pigs for Sustain’s first Songscape retreat ever, we hear from Chris Freeman of Parsonsfield and some of the inspiration behind that experience. Charles Coplin and Chris explore the different ways in which inspiration can strike, how nature permeates other aspects of life and the evolution of the band over the years. The new album, Happy Hour on the Floor, investigates the “in between moments” and being present in everyday life. Setting music to the ordinary, makes it extraordinary. 2020 brought with it new challenges, and once again, Parsonsfield was forced to pivot and come up with i...
2021-11-2433 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 16: Sean Rowe - Making Music To Connect With People, Foraging To Connect with NatureSean Rowe is all about connection, whether that be through his songwriting, foraging, or surviving in the woods for weeks on end. Since he was a child, Sean has been interested in what the natural world has to offer those curious enough to look closely. As he grew older, the interest took him to the Tom Brown Wilderness Survival School and onward to his own survival treks into the woods. Tune in to hear his insight from a three-week journey in the wild, his tips for authentic “Tik-Tokery”, and why songwriters will never hear their own work the way list...
2021-11-1032 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 15: River Whyless - Midnight Mountaintop Excursions and the Sounds of the SoutheastTune in for a talk with River Whyless from Asheville, North Carolina. The band explains how their Southeast mountain homeland has seeped into their sound, from its forests and rivers to the immersive outdoor-enthusiast culture. Hear stories about their favorite public lands (including Halli’s midnight mountaintop excursions!) and the places they never get sick of. The band’s latest album, Kindness, a Rebel, seeks to address recent social and political tensions in a way that is genuine, aware, and reflective. Learn about the messages behind their music and more in this episode of Songscapes!Thanks for list...
2021-10-2740 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 14: Drew Holcomb - A Musical Career Created by FamilyFolk-Americana artist Drew Holcomb knows all about the dedication it takes to be a family, whether it’s his own kin, or the bandmates he’s had for over 14 years. Drew speaks about what family means to him and how his parents and children alike have guided his career. He also shares stories behind the special songs that came from road trips with his wife and kids, and the magic he found in stopping to really experience natural areas in his home state that he thought he already knew. From making music, to creating festivals, to giving TED Talks, this...
2021-10-1335 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 13: Rozzi - The Adam Levine Catapult and Climate Change SongsThis week on Songscapes, we are joined by rising pop star Rozzi! Raised in San Francisco and based out of Los Angeles, she’s no stranger to climate change and its manifestations such as raging wildfires and smoke-filled air. True to the artist’s way, she expresses the intimacy of climate change events through her song, “Orange Skies”. Tune in to hear about the many turns her life has taken to make her the musician she is today, from fasting for three days in the desert in Joshua tree, to being picked out personally by Adam Levine to begin her care...
2021-09-2933 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 12: Betsy Mortensen and Harrison Goodale - Meet the Co-Founders of SustainWelcome back to Songscapes! This week, meet Betsy and Harrison, the husband-and-wife team who co-founded Sustain. Their backgrounds are from opposite ends of the nonprofit’s driving forces -- music and nature -- which allows them to support each other’s strengths to build up Sustain. Listen in to hear about Betsy’s work in Tanzania with chimpanzees, Harrison’s time in the band Parsonsfield, and how that led them to where they are today. They also reveal their favorite public lands moments, and how they’re trying to reframe the common gloomy approach of the environmental movement. Make sure to tu...
2021-09-1533 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 11: Summer Trail SessionsSummer is our busy season at Sustain. As a special treat, we wanted to share some extra content from some of our summer programs. This week we are featuring music highlights from our hike and concert series, Trail Sessions, that happen at public lands in Colorado. This year we are expanding the program to New York State, so check out our website to get all the details.This episode features music from Courtney Hartman and Covenhoven at Lory State Park in Fort Collins Colorado. The second half has Kid Astronaut and Brent Cowles at Rocky Mountain Arsenal...
2021-07-1442 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 10: Daniel Rodriguez - Letting the Moment Create the Music This week on Songscapes, join host Charles Coplin as he interviews Daniel Rodriguez live from Telluride, CO, after his performance for Sustain’s Trail Session. The former Elephant Revival band member is continuing to learn and grow his musical style and range as an individual as he explores all genres from indie/folk to hip hop. He discusses the change in energy he feels in the return to live shows after a year-plus long pandemic, and how this time has given him more freedom in his creative flow. Rodriguez has an inherent appreciation of the simple act of creating an...
2021-06-3022 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 9: Jonathan Meiburg - Where to Find A Most Remarkable Creature Jonathan Meiburg’s life is uniquely situated between both the natural world and the music industry. As leader of the band Shearwater, and author of “A Most Remarkable Creature: The Hidden Life and Epic Journey of the World’s Smartest Birds of Prey”, he provides plenty of insight on how to be a “generalist rather than a specialist” in terms of interests. His extensive travels from both touring and researching Striated Caracaras has given him a reverence for otherworldly natural areas and the beings that reside there. Meiburg also speaks on how he collaborated with Brian Eno for his song “Homing...
2021-06-1635 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 8: Scotty Stoughton - Grilled Cheese and The Grateful DeadFounder of Bonfire Entertainment and the Winter Wondergrass music festival, Scotty Stoughton has tons of insight on the magic that exists in the music community. He moved to Colorado from the east coast while selling grilled cheeses as he followed the Grateful Dead’s “Summer Tour of ‘94”, and recognized a unique quality of the Colorado music scene. Listen in to hear him talk about that quality, as well as the type of live shows that bring together everyone from “bikers to ranchers to yuppies”. Stoughton also discusses what the word ‘failure’ means to him, and how he takes a different approa...
2021-06-0238 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 7: Eric Lichter - Bringing the Outdoors In through Dirt Floor Recording StudioTune in this week to hear singer/songwriter, multi-instrumentalist and engineer Eric Lichter speak on the inspiration he draws from his ethereal Connecticut-based log cabin recording studio, Dirt Floor Records. Authenticity is the cornerstone of Lichter’s work, and he seeks to make music that reflects his wholehearted dedication to the craft. Find out what imperfections in a song mean to him, and how he has come to compare layered vocals and harmonies with a love of being outdoors - “because it’s kind of like heaven.” With influences from John Denver and Dan Fogelberg, all the way to the wood...
2021-05-1936 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 6: Courtney Hartman - Songwriting on a 500 Mile WalkAward-winning folk guitarist, Courtney Hartman, joins us this week. Colorado-born and Wisconsin-based, she and Charles talk about her 500 mile pilgrimage on the Camino De Santiago in northern Spain and how that experience shaped her latest album, Ready Reckoner. Courtney talks about working with Mike Campbell, a member of Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, and producing with Shahzad Ismaily, known for his work with Tom Waits. Our interview explores how nature plays a role in every song Courtney writes and her wish to shift our environmental perspective from “How can we do less harm?” to a more productive, “How can we do...
2021-05-0534 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 5: Bridget Law - Acro Yoga with Michael FrantiElephant Revival’s Bridget Law talks with us about her life as a fiddler, mother, music maker and mystic. She’s dedicated to using her talents to support sustainability efforts, and lifting the careers of women in music. Tune in to hear about her magic hot springs moment, and the physicality of being a fiddler - “It’s like your whole body is holding itself cross-eyed”. Host Charles and Bridget talk about her current music with Tierro Band, and fresh duos with fellow Elephant, Bonnie Paine. And of course you need to hear about the backstage encounters with Michael Franti!
2021-04-2141 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 4: Ben Cosgrove - Utterly Disorienting and Totally ExhilaratingBen Cosgrove is a traveling pianist and instrumental songwriter inspired by landscape and sense of place. “It’s important to have my music tied to something bigger than itself,” explains Ben in this episode of Songscapes. Find out how Ben has translated his inspiration from topographical maps, wilderness and his backyard into music. Composing everywhere from the open ocean, to Glacier National Park, to the “wonders and terrors” of Kansas, this episode explores Ben’s creative expression of place. And he’s not the only composer that interprets nature - we also learn about like-minded nonprofit, Landscape Music. Find Ben at...
2021-04-0739 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 3: Griffin Sherry - Brutal Maine and Haunted HousesGriffin Sherry, guitarist for Ghost of Paul Revere, is a true ‘Maine’iac. Along with his band members, who have known each other since they were toddlers, they create “holler folk” music inspired by rock legends and traditions of communal music making. In this episode, Charles and Griffin nerd out over Led Zeppelin, and discuss how Maine has shaped Griffin. “I could never leave this state. It’s elemental, but also brutal” which has fostered a fierce community of support. Hear about the ghosts of songwriting and the ghosts that crept around his house growing up. Find out how Ghost of Paul...
2021-03-2337 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 2: Jake Klar - Stewardship of Forests and MusicJake Klar, singer-songwriter-artist out of Northampton, MA, joins us before hopping in a van to go build housing for farm workers in Georgia. Charles and Jake talk about his latest album, Masquerade, and the scary events that forced the album out after a three year incubation. Find out how Jake uses his art to benefit others and the environment, and connect communities. Jake was also the second participant in Sustain’s Songscape songwriting retreats, and we’ll hear how a century old working forest in northwest Connecticut inspired his ballad, “Tallyman”. Find Jake Klar at www.JakeKlar.com and...
2021-03-1743 minSongscapes: Music and NatureEp. 1: Kayla Marque - Left Brain, Right Brain, Nature BrainKayla Marque of Denver has been around music her whole life - her uncle, Larry Dunn, was keyboardist for Earth, Wind & Fire. Our guest is a singer-songwriter and multi-instrumentalist whose music is often inspired by the natural beauty that surrounds her in Colorado. Charles and Kayla go deep in our first episode, exploring how the mountain state’s wild seasons find their way into Kayla’s music and personality. Find out how Kayla discovered camping for the first time during the pandemic - “Being able to dive into more of Colorado’s natural beauty that I hadn’t seen before was...
2021-03-1549 min