Shows
Sports Media Watch PodcastNBA ratings warning signs, YouTube's NFL future and state of SportsCenterOn the new edition of the Sports Media Watch Podcast, Jon Lewis and Armand Broady discuss warning signs ahead for the NBA Playoffs as Oklahoma City moves closer to the NBA Finals; YouTube's future as an NFL rights holder; and the state of SportsCenter following the end of its Los Angeles edition.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2025-05-2443 minSports Media Watch PodcastNBA on NBC reboot: Jim Fagan AI, nostalgia, studio roles and moreOn the new edition of the Sports Media Watch Podcast, Jon Lewis and Armand Broady discuss the recent news surrounding the NBA on NBC reboot, including the decision to use an AI-generated version of voiceover artist Jim Fagan, the risks of going to far with nostalgia, and how much the fond memories of NBC can be attributed to the NBA's subpar TV coverage from ESPN/ABC. Plus, why NBC should go with Ahmed Fareed on its NBA studio team, and will Carmelo Anthony make a successful transition from podcasting to broadcasting?Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com...
2025-05-0952 minSports Media Watch PodcastNBA playoffs leaving RSNs, future of NBA TV, Mel Kiper, Bill Belichick and moreOn the new edition of the Sports Media Watch Podcast, Jon Lewis and Armand Broady discuss the looming end of NBA playoff coverage on local TV, what the future holds for the league's NBA TV channel, Mel Kiper's NFL Draft performance, the Bill Belichick situation and more.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2025-05-0256 minSports Media Watch PodcastTalking streaming and sports TV tech with Wim Sweldens of KisweOn a special edition of the Sports Media Watch Podcast, Jon Lewis talks with Kiswe co-founder Wim Sweldens about the streaming company's sports ambitions, technological innovations in the near and long term, and the trend toward hyper-personalized sports offerings -- including potentially AI-generated play-by-play.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2025-04-2829 minSports Media Watch PodcastShannon Sharpe situation, NBA playoff ratings, Mike Patrick retrospective and moreOn the new edition of the Sports Media Watch Podcast, Jon Lewis and Armand Broady discuss the latest developments in the Shannon Sharpe situation and the implications of his legal case. Plus: the hosts discuss NBA playoff ratings and offer a retrospective on the life and career of the late ESPN voice Mike Patrick. Plus, much more.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2025-04-2550 minSports Media Watch PodcastLee Corso's retirement, NBA ratings and schedule, Masters TV coverage and moreOn the new Sports Media Watch Podcast, Jon Lewis and Armand Broady discuss the career of Lee Corso and his upcoming retirement from ESPN's College Gameday. Plus, they recap the NBA's regular season ratings and dissect the league's decision to leave the Warriors off of ABC's schedule this weekend. Finally, they discuss last weekend's Masters TV coverage and why the event is such a high-quality television property.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2025-04-181h 09Sports Media Watch PodcastWomen's national championship audience, men's tourney, MLB media rights and moreOn the new edition of the Sports Media Watch Podcast, Jon Lewis and Armand Broady break down the viewership for the NCAA women's basketball national championship and the men's edition as well, plus dive into Major League Baseball's latest media rights strategy.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2025-04-1134 minSports Media Watch PodcastHow Women's NCAA is holding up sans-Clark, Men's Final Four, MLB TV coverage and moreOn the new edition of the Sports Media Watch Podcast, Jon Lewis and Armand Broady discuss how viewership for the NCAA women's basketball tournament has held up post-Caitlin Clark, ratings potential for the men's Final Four, flaws in MLB TV coverage and much more.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2025-04-0557 minSports Media Watch PodcastTalking ratings and measurement with Bryan Goski of VideoAmpOn a special bonus edition of the Sports Media Watch Podcast, Jon Lewis is joined by VideoAmp Executive Vice President of Revenue Bryan Goski for an in-depth discussion about ratings and measurement in a changing era, including the benefits -- and limits -- of "Big Data," out-of-home viewing and much more.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2025-03-3151 minSports Media Watch PodcastCBS announcer shakeup, March Madness ratings, Bob Costas thoughts and moreOn the new edition of the Sports Media Watch podcast, Jon Lewis and Armand Broady dive deep into CBS's football announcer shakeup, breaking down Gary Danielson's retirement, JJ Watt's surprise promotion, and Charles Davis' future. Plus, a look at March Madness ratings on both the men's and women's side, and what to expect for Caitlin Clark's second WNBA season in the wake of the league's schedule release.Also, Jon and Armand offer their reflections on Bob Costas' appearance on the podcast from last week.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out...
2025-03-2848 minSports Media Watch PodcastSpecial guest Bob Costas on his career, journalism and much moreFamed broadcaster Bob Costas, who was the longtime face of NBC Sports and more recently has called Major League Baseball games for TBS and MLB Network, joined Jon Lewis and Armand Broady on the Sports Media Watch Podcast this week in a wide-ranging interview covering the final years of his career on TBS -- including the criticism he received for his work in last year’s postseason -- his relationship with NBC Sports and the golden years of his career.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2025-03-211h 22Sports Media Watch PodcastNBA ratings and guest Jorge SedanoOn the new edition of the Sports Media Watch Podcast, Jon Lewis and Armand Broady are joined by ESPN's Jorge Sedano for an extensive conversation about his time on ESPN's "Around the Horn," his foray into play-by-play, the state of the Lakers and the controversy surrounding NBA media coverage.Plus, Jon and Armand discuss the weekend NBA ratings and whether the NBA can ever get viewers as interested in Denver-OKC as they are in Lakers-Celtics.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2025-03-141h 17Sports Media Watch PodcastEnd of "Around the Horn," Zaslav's NBA comments and the future of WBD, Jimmy Johnson's retirementOn the latest edition of the SMW podcast, Jon Lewis and Armand Broady discuss the end of the long-running ESPN show "Around the Horn" after 23 years on the air. The hosts analyze how the show has evolved over time, from its early days with a more confrontational tone under host Jay Mariotti, to the current more measured approach under Tony Reali. They explore how the show's diversification of panelists may have turned off some viewers, and how ESPN's desire for more "rage bait" and heated debates may have made the show less valuable to the network.
2025-03-0749 minSports Media Watch PodcastMLB-ESPN split, Four Nations ratings recap, Richard Jefferson, Laura Rutledge and moreOn the new SMW podcast, Jon Lewis and Armand Broady dissect the end of the MLB-ESPN partnership, examining the tone and implications of MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred's memo to owners. The discussion then shifts to the surprising success of the NHL's Four Nations Face-Off, which delivered viewership milestones for the league.The hosts also touch on the latest developments surrounding the NBA, including the Lakers and Warriors' resurgence and the decision to have Richard Jefferson join the lead NBA team on ESPN. Additionally, they analyze ESPN's contract extension with reporter Laura Rutledge and the new sports offerings...
2025-02-2852 minSports Media Watch PodcastAll-Star ratings, NBA's negative media, Daytona 500, Four Nations Face-Off and moreOn the new edition of the Sports Media Watch podcast, Jon Lewis and Armand Broady discuss the ratings for the NBA All-Star Game and the broader negative media coverage of the league -- including the role its own media partners play in the complaints. Plus, Daytona 500 and Four Nations Face-Off ratings, plus will Netflix actually bid for Sunday afternoon NFL rights?Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2025-02-2046 minSports Media Watch PodcastSuper Bowl ratings breakdown, Brady's performance, Luka's Laker debut and moreThis episode of the Sports Media Watch Podcast dives into the record-breaking Super Bowl viewership numbers, analyzing the impact of methodology changes on the data. Hosts Jon Lewis and Armand Broady also break down Tom Brady's performance as a broadcaster and discuss the future of Fox's NFL coverage. Plus, insights on the NBA's Luka-LeBron pairing and the ongoing negotiations between MLB and ESPN. Don't miss this in-depth look at the latest sports media news and trends.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2025-02-1435 minSports Media Watch PodcastSuper Bowl preview: Brady, the ratings, halftime and the futureIn this Super Bowl preview edition of the Sports Media Watch Podcast, hosts Jon Lewis and Armand Broady discuss Tom Brady's debut on the Big Game, the expected TV ratings and more, including the Kendrick Lamar halftime show and whether Fox Sports may be in its final years covering the Super Bowl.The hosts analyze Brady's broadcasting experience and the challenges he may face as the sole analyst for the big game. They also provide context around the evolving TV ratings landscape and Nielsen's measurement changes. Additionally, they discuss whether "Chiefs fatigue" could impact viewership for the...
2025-02-0838 minSports Media Watch PodcastAFC vs. NFC ratings, Reggie Miller to NBC, Greg Olsen's future and moreOn this week's Sports Media Watch Podcast, hosts Jon Lewis and Armand Broady break down the sharp ratings gap between the NFL conference championship games and the lack of NFC starpower.The podcast also covers NBC's reported interest in hiring Reggie Miller as a lead NBA analyst and whether there is a shortage of established NBA analysts in the industry.Additionally, they discuss the status of analyst Greg Olsen at Fox, and the possibility of him finding a new opportunity -- perhaps on Amazon's NFL coverage.Subscribe to the Sports Media Watch Podcast...
2025-01-3129 minSports Media Watch PodcastNFL ratings, LIV Golf on FOX, Bob Uecker and future NBA announcersIn the latest episode of the SMW podcast, Jon Lewis and Armand Broady dive into the declining NFL playoff ratings, exploring why the league may be a victim of its own recent success. They also break down the LIV Golf Tour's new TV deal with Fox Sports and what it means for the upstart league's future. Plus, the hosts pay tribute to the legendary Bob Uecker and wish Dick Vitale well in his recovery; and discuss Mike Tirico being named the lead play-by-play voice for the new "NBA on NBC" and the potential for Amazon's NBA studio show to...
2025-01-2330 minSports Media Watch PodcastFuture of streaming sports, NFL playoff ratings, TGL and moreOn the latest edition of the Sports Media Watch podcast, Jon Lewis and Armand Broady discuss the future of sports on streaming in the wake of Venu's collapse; NFL playoff ratings and what the best matchups will be going forward; and whether the TGL golf venture can achieve long-term success.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2025-01-1631 minSports Media Watch PodcastNFL ratings recap, Tom Brady's performance, Disney-Fubo deal and moreThe Sports Media Watch podcast returns from hiatus as Jon Lewis and new co-host Armand Broady discuss the NFL's regular season ratings performance, how Tom Brady looks heading into the playoffs, Disney's Fubo deal and more.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2025-01-0929 minSports Media Watch PodcastSpecial guest Bob Wischusen talks NHL and more, plus MLB-Diamond Sports, Mets ratings and moreOn the latest edition of the Sports Media Watch podcast, Jon Lewis is joined by ESPN play-by-play voice Bob Wischusen, who discusses his role as an NHL broadcaster, his career and more. But first, Jon discusses the future of MLB on RSNs and the Mets' drawing power this postseason.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-10-1033 minSports Media Watch PodcastSpecial guests Randy Scott and Gary Striewski, plus WNBA vs. Christine Brennan and MLB PostseasonOn the new edition of the Sports Media Watch podcast, Jon Lewis is joined by special guests Randy Scott and Gary Striewski of SportsCenter (11:35), who discuss their popular partnership, how their SportsCenter differs from the 1990s heyday and much more. But first, Jon dives into the Christine Brennan-WNBA controversy and the broader culture war over Caitlin Clark, and explains why everything is lining up for a strong MLB Postseason in the ratings.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-10-0344 minSports Media Watch PodcastCaitlin Clark playoff ratings, NFL, college football and moreOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner talk more Caitlin Clark, and how her presence lifted the WNBA to big playoff viewership directly against the NFL. Then, the crew takes a look at football viewership from the weekend, including whether the Kansas City Chiefs have a legitimate claim to the title of "America's Team," and how Fox's Friday night college football game could turn into another viewership draw for the network.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-09-2546 minSports Media Watch PodcastTalking WNBA/Caitlin Clark with Fever analyst Debbie Antonelli and ION exec Brian Lawlor, plus NFL ratingsOn the latest edition of the Sports Media Watch podcast, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner examine the WNBA season and the Caitlin Clark effect with Fever analyst and Basketball Hall of Famer Debbie Antonelli and Scripps Sports (ION) president Brian Lawlor. Plus, some discussion about NFL ratings, Tom Brady and more.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-09-191h 02Sports Media Watch PodcastBrady's debut, NFL ratings, Disney v. DIRECTV, Caitlin Clark and moreOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner review Tom Brady's broadcasting debut, what went right, what went wrong, and where he goes from here. Then the crew reviews the opening week in NFL ratings including strong numbers for the NFL Kickoff Game and the Friday night Peacock exclusive from Brazil. Jon and Drew close the show with a discussion on the ongoing dispute between DirecTV and Disney, and Caitlin Clark's Indiana Fever drawing over one million viewers directly against the NFL.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-09-1237 minSports Media Watch PodcastDisney vs. DIRECTV, Pat McAfee, Tom Brady's debut, Sheryl SwoopesOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner start the podcast discussing the carriage dispute between Disney and DirecTV, how it differs from the Charter dispute last year, and whether it will be solved in time for Monday Night Football. Then, the crew takes a look at the first full weekend of college football, including a discussion about Nick Saban's debut on College GameDay, and whether Saban or Bill Belichick will have the better media chops this season. Jon and Drew then discuss Tom Brady's NFL broadcasting debut, and whether he will even make it through a full season...
2024-09-0547 minSports Media Watch PodcastESPN restructuring and the future of its NBA coverage; Paramount, Diamond RSNs, NBA vs. WBDOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss ESPN's executive restructuring and what it could mean for its live sports coverage, in particular the NBA. Then the crew does a legal roundup covering the Paramount deal, Venu's appeal, Amazon pulling its funding from Diamond Sports, the NFL Sunday Ticket case, and the NBA filing a motion to dismiss WBD's matching rights.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-08-2835 minSports Media Watch PodcastVenu loses in court, Greenberg replaces Ponder, RGIII fired and moreOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner talk about the preliminary injunction levied against Venu in federal court last week, whether the ruling should have been made, and what it means for the future of "bundling" sports properties. Then the crew discusses ESPN's decision to fire Sam Ponder and Robert Griffin III, and why Laura Rutledge should get the "Sunday NFL Countdown" job over Mike Greenberg. Jon and Drew then put a bow on their Olympics ratings discussion to close the show.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com...
2024-08-2144 minSports Media Watch PodcastCharles Barkley's TNT future, Leigh Diffey's flub, Olympics ratings, Sunday Ticket and moreOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner start off by discussing Leigh Diffey's call of the Men's 100m Final and look back at some other notable announcer blunders. Then, the crew continues their discussion about NBC's Olympic viewership, and how Paris compares to past Olympics. Jon and Drew close the show with the NFL "Sunday Ticket" verdict getting overturned, and MLB announcing flexible scheduling for the World Series.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-08-0738 minSports Media Watch PodcastOlympics ratings, WBD sues the NBA, Roundball Rock's returnOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner wade through the somewhat confusing methodology that NBC is using for measuring its Olympics viewership, and how much of this year's success is real versus manufactured. Then, the crew discusses their opinions on Gold Zone and the whip-around format more broadly, asking whether it is the future of live sports consumption. Jon and Drew close out the show with a discussion about what WBD is trying to gain from its battle with the NBA over its matching rights.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out...
2024-08-0132 minSports Media Watch PodcastNBA media rights official; what's next for WBD; how WNBA fared; Olympics previewOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner dive into the NBA and its respective broadcast partners formally announcing their upcoming media rights agreements. The crew discusses what this means for WBD who had their "match" denied by the league, and what stood out in the announcements that we didn't already know. Then, Jon and Drew discuss the WNBA portion of the rights agreements and the success of the league through the All-Star break before closing out the show with an Olympics discussion.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com...
2024-07-2553 minSports Media Watch PodcastNBA media rights crunch time; WNBA rights fee; big soccer viewership and moreOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the NBA finalizing its media rights deals, and what to expect from WBD's efforts to match Amazon's package of games. Then, the crew highlights the WNBA portion of the deal and whether that rights fee will look like a bargain down the line. Jon and Drew close out the show talking Copa America and Euros viewership on Fox, and Skip Bayless leaving FS1.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-07-1827 minSports Media Watch PodcastNASCAR Chicago, Fox soccer, Caitlin Clark and moreOn the latest edition of the Sports Media Watch podcast, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the NASCAR Chicago Street Race, Fox soccer coverage, the latest Caitlin Clark numbers and more.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-07-1037 minSports Media Watch PodcastWhy NBA rights are so expensive despite lower Finals ratings (plus: WNBA ratings, Stanley Cup coverage)On today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner start the show discussing more viewership records for the Clark-sparked WNBA, including the Fever-Sky game that beat its own one week old record and a Fever game that set another record for ION. Then, Jon dives into his new piece on why the NBA has been able to land such lucrative media rights deals despite so-so NBA Finals viewership. The crew closes out the show talking about Game 7 of the Stanley Cup Finals and the new Big East media rights deals.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
2024-06-2735 minSports Media Watch PodcastNBA Finals ratings dud and should we believe Charles Barkley's retirement announcement?On today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner start the show discussing the lackluster NBA Finals viewership before shifting over to a conversation about Charles Barkley's latest retirement saga, and whether his announcement this time around is different than the past. Then, the crew wraps up with U.S. Open viewership and the Stanley Cup Finals.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-06-1928 minSports Media Watch PodcastNBA and Stanley Cup Final ratings and Warner Bros. Discovery's sports strategyOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner take a look at how the NBA and Stanley Cup Finals are faring from a ratings perspective through two games. Then, the crew closes out the show with a discussion on TNT's recent media rights acquisitions, whether the network is doing enough to maintain its rates with distributors, and if they'll secure a fourth package of NBA games.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-06-1226 minSports Media Watch PodcastCaitlin Clark media meltdown, plus NBA Finals and Stanley Cup Final ratings previewsOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner unpack the media discourse surrounding the WNBA, including recent incidents with Stephen A. Smith and Pat McAfee. The crew then discusses the NBA Finals before having an impromptu conversation about the league's media rights deal and what it signals for the cable industry writ large. Jon and Drew wrap up with a discussion on the Stanley Cup Finals.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-06-0639 minSports Media Watch PodcastRemembering Bill Walton, plus holiday weekend ratingsOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the legacy of Bill Walton and his prolific broadcasting career. Afterwards, the crew closes out the show with a ratings roundup of the Indy 500, Stanley Cup Playoffs, and NBA Conference Finals.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-05-3033 minSports Media Watch PodcastThe problem with ESPN's NBA coverage; plus, weekend ratings and Golf Channel skips SchefflerOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner quickly go over weekend ratings for the NBA, PGA Championship, and Preakness before diving into our main topic: ESPN's game 7 broadcast of Knicks-Pacers. Jon details how ESPN's failures have resulted in a product that has become a disservice to NBA viewers, why the problem is systemic, and whether the network can reverse course over its next decade-plus of NBA rights. The crew closes out the show with a discussion of the coverage surrounding Scottie Scheffler's incident Friday at the PGA Championship.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
2024-05-2245 minSports Media Watch PodcastNFL takes on CFP, Tom Brady and Greg Olsen, NBA playoff ratings, Caitlin Clark expectations and moreOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner run through the many announcements surrounding the NFL's schedule release, starting with the league's decision to give NBC and FOX extra Week 16 games that will directly compete with the College Football Playoff. Then, Jon and Drew discuss what we know about the first couple weeks of the NFL schedule, how Tom Brady will fare at FOX, and NBC producing three standalone games in Week 1. The crew then gets into NBA playoff ratings and the ongoing NBA rights negotiations as WBD looks less and less likely to retain its package. Jon and...
2024-05-1646 minSports Media Watch PodcastNBA media rights: should NBA want WBD or Comcast? Plus: weekend ratings and hot topicsOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the latest reporting surrounding the NBA media rights negotiations and whether NBC or TNT would be a better partner for the league. Then, the crew jumps into a ratings roundup and takes a look at weekend ratings from the NBA, Kentucky Derby, and NHL. Jon and Drew close out the show with some quick hitters including NBC's U.S. Open coverage plans, MLB on Roku, Michael Irvin, The NFL Today shakeup, ABC's Monday Night Football inventory, and the upcoming WNBA season.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
2024-05-0848 minSports Media Watch PodcastComcast's huge NBA offer, can TNT match, and what it means for the marketplaceOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner dive into all the reporting surrounding NBA rights negotiations. To start, the crew discusses whether NBC's huge bid could mean the end times for the NBA on TNT or if WBD will find a way to match NBC's deal, or split the package between them. They also discuss possible landing spots for the Inside the NBA crew should TNT miss out on NBA rights. Then, Jon and Drew go over NBA playoff ratings thus far, before returning to a discussion of the live sports rights market writ large, debating whether a...
2024-05-0153 minSports Media Watch PodcastNBA media rights and ratings, hot start for Stanley Cup, Howie Schawb and the WNBAOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner take a look at recent reporting surrounding the NBA's media rights negotiations and discuss expectations around the dollar figure the league will ultimately receive, and what the inventory breakdown looks like for the league's media partners. Then, Jon and Drew go over viewership for the opening weekend of NBA playoffs, and how the postseason is shaping up from a ratings perspective. The crew also takes a look at the substantial year-over-year increase for the NHL's opening playoff games. To close out the show, Jon and Drew remember ESPN's Howie Schwab and...
2024-04-2454 minSports Media Watch PodcastCaitlin Clark boosts WNBA to 24-year high, NBA playoff preview, Masters ratings recapOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner lead off the podcast discussing yet another Caitlin Clark viewership feat -- this time with a record-setting WNBA Draft. Then, the crew takes a look at how NBA regular season viewership fared and looks forward to potential playoff scenarios. Jon and Drew close out the show with a discussion on the subpar Masters viewership, and whether the property is facing decline in the future.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-04-1724 minSports Media Watch PodcastWomen's NCAA title game outdraws men's, can the WNBA capitalize, and Norby Williamson's exitOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner lead off the show with a March Madness viewership discussion, headlined by the massive rating for South Carolina-Iowa in the women's tournament and why the WNBA can't seem to capitalize on the successes of women's college basketball. Then the crew turns its focus to the men, where UConn-Purdue finished a tick up from last year's title game. Jon and Drew close out the show with a discussion of Norby Williamson's departure from ESPN.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-04-1038 minSports Media Watch PodcastIowa-LSU record audience, reviewing ESPN's coverage, and can the Caitlin Clark phenomenon be repeated?On today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner dive deep into the record-setting viewership for Iowa-LSU. The crew covers the 12.3m viewers number in context, what this number means for the Final Four games this Friday, where expectations should be set for women's college basketball next season without Caitlin Clark, and if this was the most heavily anticipated viewership number ever. Then, Jon and Drew discuss whether or not ESPN's broadcast of the game was able to meet the moment. They also go over numbers for last weekend's men's Elite Eight and the impact of the Easter holiday on...
2024-04-0351 minSports Media Watch PodcastMarch Madness ratings, Kim Mulkey, NFL on Christmas and sports betting scandalsOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss viewership for both the men's and women's NCAA Tournaments, including Caitlin Clark and Iowa's record-setting numbers, and how the chalky setup for both tournaments can lead to strong viewership here on out. The crew also discusses the impending Washington Post story on Kim Mulkey and a potential Iowa-LSU rematch in the Elite 8. Jon and Drew then shift to the NFL's announcement that they will play two games on Christmas Day this upcoming season, before closing out the show with a discussion on gambling in the context of the Shohei Ohtani...
2024-03-2739 minSports Media Watch PodcastNCAA men's and women's hoops comparisons, CFP media rights deal and moreOn today's episode Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss Selection Sunday viewership and the countless comparisons between the men's and women's tournaments in the media. The crew also talks about the new College Football Playoff rights deal and the return of the national title game to ABC.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-03-2034 minSports Media Watch PodcastMore Caitlin Clark ratings, NCAA Tournament announcers, NBA TV deal and moreOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss a potpourri of sports media topics, starting with the huge viewership that women's college basketball had last week, and whether the sport can sustain that strength post-Caitlin Clark. Then, the crew hits on a few storylines in men's college basketball including Greg Gumbel's absence from the CBS studio this year, Ian Eagle taking over the top play-by-play spot, and Bill Walton missing time due to health issues. Jon and Drew end with some quick hitters including the NBA's exclusive negotiating window opening up, reports that NBC looks likely to pick...
2024-03-1444 minSports Media Watch PodcastCaitlin Clark ratings and the future of WCBB and WNBA; plus, passing of Chris MortensenOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner dive into the impact Caitlin Clark is having on women's basketball. The crew covers the recent viewership records that Clark has helped set, whether a deep run by Iowa in the tournament could threaten to post bigger viewership numbers than the men's tournament, what Clark's viewership impact will be for the WNBA, and if she has earned a spot on the USA Olympic team. Jon and Drew close the show with a brief discussion on the legacy of Chris Mortensen.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands...
2024-03-0641 minSports Media Watch PodcastState of the NBA: Ratings, rights deals and media coverageOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner take a look at all things NBA, starting with whether the league suffers from its "activist" label stemming from the 2020 season. Then, the crew previews the exclusive negotiating window that starts next month between the league and its incumbent media partners ESPN and TNT. Jon and Drew close out the show talking about how NBA media coverage contributes to the negative perception of the league writ large.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-02-2947 minSports Media Watch PodcastNBA All-Star Weekend recap, CFP future, Kansas City shooting coverage, Daytona 500On today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner start off by discussing NBA All-Star Weekend, which Sports Media Watch was on-site to cover. The crew talks about viewership, if the format can be changed for the better, and the NBA Tech Summit. Then, Jon and Drew discuss the ongoing uncertainty amidst the College Football Playoff, if ESPN would ever actually pull the agreement, and whether the ESPN-FOX-WBD joint entity could entice a bid from NBC or CBS. The show closes with a discussion on ESPN and FS1's breaking news coverage during the Kansas City Chiefs parade shooting last...
2024-02-2255 minSports Media Watch PodcastSuper Bowl ratings, Romo, CFP rights deal, Redick's promotion and moreOn the latest edition of the Sports Media Watch podcast, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the Super Bowl ratings, Tony Romo's performance on the "Big Game," the new College Football Playoff extension with ESPN, JJ Redick's promotion to the NBA Finals broadcast team and more.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-02-1552 minSports Media Watch PodcastESPN-Fox-WBD joint venture, Super Bowl, NFL in Brazil, and Spongebob's Bill FagerbakkeOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner are joined by the voice of Patrick Star, Bill Fagerbakke, to discuss his role in the upcoming Nickelodeon Super Bowl broadcast. To start the show, Jon and Drew talk about the joint sports streaming venture announced by Disney, Fox, and Warner Bros Discovery. The crew also previews Sunday's Super Bowl and discusses the NFL's announcement of a Friday game from Brazil during Week One of next season.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-02-081h 12Sports Media Watch PodcastNFL playoff ratings, Super Bowl preview, futures of Romo, Olsen and Doris BurkeOn the 50th episode of the Sports Media Watch Podcast, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner break down viewership for the Championship Weekend games, how the Swift-NFL discourse has reached its inevitable conclusion, Tony Romo's AFC Championship Game performance, and Greg Olsen's future in the top Fox booth. Then the crew closes the show with more top broadcaster drama, speculating about reports that ESPN may add JJ Redick to its NBA Finals team following Doc Rivers' return to coaching.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-01-3131 minSports Media Watch PodcastMassive NFL ratings and the out-of-home factor, Netflix-WWE, downfall of SIOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss viewership for the NFL divisional round, including over 50 million for Bills-Chiefs on Sunday night, and then previews the conference championship games. The crew then talks about Netflix inking a deal with WWE for the 'Raw' franchise, and if Netflix could be a serious player for other upcoming live rights properties. Jon and Drew close out the show discussing the news surrounding Sports Illustrated.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-01-2434 minSports Media Watch PodcastNFL-Peacock ratings, ESPN-NFL partnership and Divisional Round previewOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the NFL's Super Wild Card Weekend, including the viewership success of the Peacock exclusive game. The crew then talks about the possible strategic partnership between ESPN and the NFL, questioning whether it makes sense for either side. Jon and Drew close out the show discussing the odd decision for NBC to tout its Peacock viewership numbers during halftime of Rams-Lions, and then preview the divisional round.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-01-1736 minSports Media Watch PodcastPat McAfee vs. Norby, NFL ratings, CFP media rights and Peacock's playoff gameOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner dive into the controversy surrounding Pat McAfee, Aaron Rodgers, Jimmy Kimmel, Norby Williamson, and Disney/ESPN. Then, the crew jumps into how NFL regular season viewership fared, the schedule for Super Wild Card Weekend, and ESPN reportedly bidding to extend its exclusive rights for the expanded College Football Playoff.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-01-1048 minSports Media Watch PodcastRatings catchup: CFP, Thursday Night Football, NFL on Peacock, NBA on ChristmasOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner run through the past two weeks in sports viewership starting with the College Football Playoffs and New Year's Six bowl games. Then, the crew discusses Amazon's 24% increase year-over-year for Thursday Night Football. Jon and Drew also cover how Peacock's NFL exclusive fared and what to think of the NFL-NBA competition on Christmas Day.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-01-0337 minSports Media Watch PodcastDid ratings affect CFP picks? Plus, NFL ratings and what NASCAR rights deal means for NBAOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss if ratings were what kept Florida State out of the College Football Playoff. Plus: the Philadelphia Eagles as the NFL's new ratings darling; a look ahead to the rest of the NFL season; and NASCAR's new media rights deal in context.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2023-12-0632 minSports Media Watch PodcastGuest Dave Pasch, NFL flex suggestions, NBA In-Season Tournament ratings and moreOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner are joined by ESPN play-by-play announcer Dave Pasch to talk about his career in broadcasting, what it's like to work with Bill Walton, his two decades as voice of the Arizona Cardinals, and calling a Luka Doncic buzzer beater from his basement. Jon and Drew also provide the normal ratings discussion -- how the NFL fared in a week with lackluster primetime matchups, potential flex candidates, NBA in-season tournament ratings, and rumors that Netflix might buy in-season tournament rights. The crew wraps the show discussing Dick Vitale deciding to delay his...
2023-11-1554 minSports Media Watch PodcastBally Sports-NBA deal and the future of RSNs, World Series ratings recap and moreOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the situation between Diamond Sports and the NBA and how the local media rights situation will look after the 2023-24 season. Then the crew debriefs on the lackluster World Series viewership and revisits the question of if the ratings actually matter for the sport. Jon and Drew wrap up by discussing the Chiefs-Dolphins game from Frankfurt, and share some travel stories from the past week.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2023-11-0839 minSports Media Watch PodcastWorld Series ratings lows, 'Do ratings matter?' and Breen extensionOn the new edition of the Sports Media Watch podcast, Jon Lewis discusses the record-low ratings for the World Series, whether and how much ratings should matter to fans, Mike Breen's extension with ESPN and more.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2023-11-0124 minSports Media Watch PodcastBaseball and football ratings, NBA and MLB media rights and moreOn the latest Sports Media Watch podcast, Jon Lewis discusses the state of Major League Baseball ratings and digs into the latest reporting on both NBA and MLB media rights.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2023-10-2531 minSports Media Watch PodcastJets ratings, Rodgers-McAfee, ALCS, sideline reporters, WNBA and moreOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss if the New York Jets are the ratings surprise of this NFL season after they've appeared in the three most watched games so far. Then, the crew talks about the strong number for Game 1 of the ALCS, gets into a longer discussion about Matt Winer's postgame interview "question" for Nick Castellanos, and dives into the role of a sideline reporter more broadly. Jon then gets into WNBA Finals ratings and what a potential Game 5 could garner before closing out with the weekend in college football.Advertising Inquiries...
2023-10-1841 minSports Media Watch PodcastSunday Night Football ratings, Joe Buck, Big Ten Friday games and moreOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the past week in the NFL highlighted by the Cowboys-49ers and Sunday Night Football's early season viewership success. The crew also dives into which games NBC should flex in upcoming weeks, how the NFL Network game in London fared, and Joe Buck filling in for Scott Van Pelt on Monday Night Countdown. Then, Jon and Drew discuss the Big Ten's plan to add more Friday night college football games to the schedule next season, as well as unpacking WNBA Finals viewership story lines. The crew closes out the show...
2023-10-1144 minSports Media Watch PodcastNFL ratings, celebrities, MLB Postseason preview and moreOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the viewership impact of a certain celebrity on NFL games and whether or not it is getting overblown by the media. Then, the crew talks Deion Sanders and Colorado earning a huge number against USC, albeit the lowest of the season so far for the team. Jon and Drew also discuss the start of MLB playoffs, how viewership will fare in the context of fewer major market teams, and also if the new rule changes will create some excitement. Finally, they close the show with ABC adding five NBA games...
2023-10-0436 minSports Media Watch PodcastColorado-Oregon ratings, CFB coaches, NFL ratings and moreOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss Deion Sanders and Colorado's blowout loss to Oregon, what it means for the USC game this weekend, and if the Deion story has resulted in other coaches becoming more obnoxious. The crew also discusses where college football viewership stands as a whole after a week of marquee games. Then, Jon and Drew turn to the NFL and talk about if Taylor Swift actually had any impact on NFL viewership, and how ESPN's 'B' broadcasting team has performed through two weeks.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands
2023-09-2734 minSports Media Watch PodcastColorado football ratings, MNF on ABC, "Max" and moreOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the monster ratings coming out of Boulder, Colorado with Deion Sanders' Buffaloes, whether Coach Prime's cult of personality could be replicated somewhere else, and where viewership for the Buffs will trend with a win or loss against Oregon this weekend. Then, the crew talks about ABC getting a full slate of Monday Night Football games amidst the joint strikes in Hollywood and what implications ESPN's partnership with ABC will have on a potential sale for the broadcaster. Jon and Drew wrap up by discussing WBD's announcement of a Bleacher Report...
2023-09-2032 minSports Media Watch PodcastRodgers' injury, NFL ratings, Deion's Buffs, Coco Gauff and moreOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss a busy week in sports media beginning with how Aaron Rodgers' season-ending injury impacts the rest of the NFL schedule. Then they discuss Week 1 ratings being down overall, if Jon's prediction of a viewership increase this year might not pan out, and ESPN's success revamping Monday Night Football. After the NFL talk, Jon and Drew discuss Colorado and Deion Sanders nearly beating out Alabama-Texas in viewership last week. Then, the crew takes on some quick hitters: Coco Gauff and a U.S. Open viewership record, Jim Trotter's lawsuit against the...
2023-09-1348 minSports Media Watch PodcastCharter vs. ESPN, CFB ratings, NFL preview and moreOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the existential threat of the Disney-Charter carriage dispute and what it could mean for the industry at large. Then, the crew talks about headlines from college football's opening weekend including Colorado and Deion Sanders, FSU/LSU viewership, and how NBC's inaugural Big Ten game fared. Jon and Drew then look forward to NFL week 1 and what to look for this season as the new media rights deals kick in.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2023-09-0638 minSports Media Watch PodcastWomen's World Cup ratings, NBA schedule, SVP's new job, Michael Irvin and moreOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner open the episode putting the Women's World Cup viewership in perspective, and discuss who could be interested in acquiring rights for future World Cups. Then, the crew talks a bit about the NBA schedule release and the questionable decisions surrounding the lack of Spurs games in national windows for Victor Wembanyama's rookie year. Jon and Drew close out the show talking about some studio show changes: Scott Van Pelt in his debut as host of Monday Night Countdown, and Michael Irvin joining the rotating panel of guests on FS1's...
2023-08-2328 minSports Media Watch PodcastSage Steele exit, NBA Countdown revamp, NBA in-season tourney and moreOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner lead off by discussing the latest at ESPN with Sage Steele parting ways with the network following the settlement of her lawsuit. In more ESPN news, Jon and Drew discuss the NBA studio shakeup that brings Malika Andrews to the host chair while Bob Myers slides in as an analyst. Then, the crew closes the show by touching on the NBA's schedule release for the in-season tournament and the NFL bringing NFL Network and NFL RedZone direct-to-consumer through NFL+.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands...
2023-08-1622 minSports Media Watch PodcastESPN sportsbook, Pac-12 demise, WBD streaming, Carli Lloyd criticism and moreOn this week's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss ESPN's partnership with Penn National to form ESPN BET and why the partnership signals just how dire the financial situation is for legacy media companies. Then, the crew talks about conference realignment and the collapse of the Pac-12, how the future of college athletics will look, and if the new conferences will actually increase viewership. Plus: Warner Bros Discovery putting live sports on Max, and the intense criticism of Fox analyst Carli Lloyd.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com...
2023-08-0929 minSports Media Watch PodcastPac-12 & Apple, NBA announcer shuffle, Women's World Cup ratingsOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the latest on the potential Pac-12 media rights deal with Apple, whether or not a streaming-centric deal can work for the conference, and if the conference should have perhaps taken a closer look at deals with broadcasters like The CW. Then, Jon and Drew talk about the NBA announcer shuffle at ESPN, how the new team of Doris Burke, Doc Rivers, and Mike Breen will fare, and if the recently ousted Jeff Van Gundy and Mark Jackson have futures at another network. To close out the podcast, the crew...
2023-08-0229 minSports Media Watch PodcastWimbledon ratings, Van Gundy replacements, plus WNBA, Women's World Cup & MessiOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner start off by discussing Carlos Alcaraz's Wimbledon victory and what it meant for viewership. Then, they dive into possible replacements for Jeff Van Gundy at ESPN, weighing in on rumors that one or more of Doris Burke, Doc Rivers, Richard Jefferson, and J.J. Redick could take the seat while Mark Jackson is relegated to a lower team. The crew also touches on viewership for the WNBA All Star Game, what viewership will look like for the timezone-challenged FIFA Women's World Cup, and Messi's debut for Inter Miami....
2023-07-1931 minSports Media Watch PodcastHome Run Derby ratings, Wembanyama, NBA in-season tournament, NYT, and moreOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss a number of ratings topics including the Home Run Derby, how the MLB All Star Game will fare, Victor Wembanyama's impact on NBA Summer League viewership and his potential to be a ratings draw in San Antonio, the U.S. Women's Open at Pebble Beach, and Wimbledon. They close the show by discussing the New York Times' recent move to abandon its sports desk in favor of The Athletic, and how that fits into the larger sports media and entertainment landscape.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com...
2023-07-1234 minSports Media Watch PodcastESPN layoffs, Bob Pockrass on NASCAR in Chicago, more with Ahmed FareedOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the ESPN layoffs including the decision to let go of lead NBA analyst Jeff Van Gundy. The crew talks about who could possibly replace Van Gundy in the top booth, and what the future of NBA coverage looks like for the network. They also discuss layoffs that hit ESPN's NFL coverage, including Suzy Kolber, Steve Young, and Todd McShay. Then, they touch on the long and winding career of Max Kellerman and College Gameday's David Pollack.Later in the show, Jon and Drew are...
2023-07-0554 minSports Media Watch PodcastCWS ratings, ShowBuzz shuts down, Ahmed Fareed interviewOn today's episode, NBC's Ahmed Fareed joins the show to discuss his career including hosting Peacock's MLB Sunday Leadoff, his experience anchoring Olympic coverage, advice he received from Mike Tirico, and his journey from local news to national sports anchor. Stay tuned later this week for a conversation with Ahmed about the Triple Crown and the current state of horse racing. Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner open the show discussing the week's ratings including the Men's College World Series and the NBA Draft. They also touch on ShowBuzz Daily deciding to cease operations, and what that means for...
2023-06-2854 minSports Media Watch PodcastMatt Winer interview, plus US Open ratings and NBC's coverageOn today's episode, Matt Winer of NBA TV joins the podcast to discuss his career in sports media including what it's like to work with Charles Barkley and Shaquille O'Neal during the NBA Finals, how he handled covering the death of Kobe Bryant live on the air, and how he called his first baseball game on just three hours notice. Then, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner talk a bit about NBC's coverage of the U.S. Open.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2023-06-2139 minSports Media Watch PodcastNBA Finals ratings, Mike Breen, Stanley Cup, the Belmont and much moreOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner wrap up the discussion on NBA ratings, taking a look at how the Nuggets win over the Heat stacked up relative to expectations and how NBA playoff viewership fared overall. Then, Jon touches on Mike Breen calling his 100th NBA Finals game. Next, the crew discusses the low Stanley Cup Finals and asks whether hockey should be considered as the fourth "major" sport in North America given the ratings. Jon and Drew finish with quick hitters: Belmont Stakes, French Open, Champions League, Canadian Open, and College Softball....
2023-06-1456 minSports Media Watch PodcastPGA-LIV merger, NBA Finals and Stanley Cup ratings and moreOn today's episode, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner kick off the podcast with the bombshell news that the PGA Tour and LIV Golf will merge into one entity, a topic they will return to later in the pod. Viewership news begins with how NBA Finals ratings have been steady year-over-year, despite Heat-Nuggets being a much less attractive matchup on paper than Warriors-Celtics. The crew discusses whether NBA ratings have become inelastic and will always fall within a narrow band, and if the NBA is happy about the stability or would rather see more potential for a ratings "boom." Then...
2023-06-0753 minSports Media Watch PodcastNBA Finals ratings, 'disrespect', Kiely shoutout and the writers strikeOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner dive into NBA viewership in the lead up to a Heat-Nuggets final, including how the Celtics' comeback to force Game 7 in the Eastern Conference Finals will almost guarantee the NBA an overall playoff viewership increase year-over-year. The crew also touches on some comments Jeff Van Gundy made regarding media coverage of the Nuggets and NBA franchises with smaller brands, and how earlier tip off times could impact finals viewership. Other topics include Stanley Cup Finals viewership, a big picture view of NHL playoff viewership, why Turner always seems to nail...
2023-05-3145 minSports Media Watch PodcastHeat-Nuggets finals ratings, Big Ten drama, TNF flex and moreOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the abrupt end to the dream NBA ratings scenario and talk about how the likely Nuggets-Heat final will measure up historically. Jon puts into context how a strong first two rounds will allow the NBA to meet or exceed viewership year over year, despite two abbreviated Conference Finals. The crew also discusses the NBA's issues when it comes to marketing stars that aren't LeBron James or Steph Curry, and if the NBA is in trouble once they retire. Other topics include: the Big Ten deals hitting some bumps in...
2023-05-2448 minSports Media Watch PodcastPeacock-NFL deal, Pat McAfee to ESPN, NBA ratings and moreOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the implications of Peacock's exclusive NFL Wild Card game: why it happened, if this is the new normal for the NFL, the $110m price tag, who NBC's broadcast teams will be, and more. Next, Jon and Drew talk about Pat McAfee's new deal with ESPN, whether it will be beneficial for either side, and if this signals Norby Williamson's waning influence on ESPN programming. Also discussed: NBA ratings, how viewership will look for the Conference Finals, and why a lack of broadcast presence leaves viewership on the table. NHL...
2023-05-1752 minSports Media Watch PodcastSMW Podcast: NBA ratings surge, Kentucky Derby, F1, USFL and moreOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the monster ratings for the NBA's second round matchups, particularly the Warriors-Lakers series, and how even if that marquee series ends early, the NBA is still in great shape from a viewership perspective. They also discuss whether off-the-court stories like the drama surrounding Mat Ishbia and Nikola Jokic can move the needle. Then, the crew reviews Kentucky Derby ratings, if the decline from last year means anything, and why the proliferation of gambling hasn't resulted in viewership growth for the sport. Other topics include: Formula 1 and the Miami Grand...
2023-05-1034 minSports Media Watch PodcastSMW Podcast: Record NBA ratings, Warriors-Lakers preview, NHL and moreOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss a wide range of ratings stories in sports media starting with the NBA's strong round one numbers. Warriors/Kings Game 7 set a 24-year high and capped off a successful round one overall. The NBA gets the high profile matchups they want for the second round, headlined by Warriors/Lakers. The NHL playoffs also got off to a hot start in round one, but may cool down with large market teams knocked out. Also, NFL Draft ratings were strong, and the league wants you to know it. The crew previews...
2023-05-0333 minSports Media Watch PodcastSMW Podcast: NBA and NHL playoff ratings, XFL, Soltys, Barkley and moreOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss a busy week in sports media starting with another positive ratings week for the NBA. Kings/Warriors set a viewership mark that has not been matched since 2002, the conference semifinals are lining up to be solid viewership draws, and the Knicks continue to underwhelm in the ratings. The crew also takes a look at the first week of NHL playoff numbers, and discusses why the league's deal with Turner gives them a higher floor but lower ceiling. They then get into a little spring football talk with XFL and...
2023-04-2649 minSports Media Watch PodcastSMW Podcast: NBA playoff ratings start, USFL vs. XFL and moreOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner dive into the weekend's ratings starting with great viewership numbers for the NBA. The crew covers how these opening weekend numbers stack up historically, what potential matchups would be ratings boons for the league, and why TNT kept airing that disgusting advertisement. Then Jon and Drew discuss the XFL/USFL competition and how the USFL decided to spin their opening weekend ratings, along with some quick discussions on good viewership weeks for the PGA Tour and NASCAR.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out...
2023-04-1833 minSports Media Watch PodcastSMW Podcast: Masters ratings + Danny Corrales interviewOn today's episode, we are joined by Danny Corrales formerly of ESPN's "The Jump" and now Head of Video Podcast Production for The Ringer. Danny discusses podcasting as a medium and the blurring of lines between podcasting and linear television when adding a video component. Then, Danny provides some insightful commentary about the culture at ESPN when he was there, the divide between LA and Bristol, and Norby and Skipper. He also discusses his view on how the media covered the Rachel Nichols and Maria Taylor drama, and how that played out behind the scenes at ESPN. Finally, Danny...
2023-04-121h 02Sports Media Watch PodcastSMW Podcast: Women's Final Four record, Angel Reese controversy and moreOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner break down the record-setting weekend for women's college basketball, what this means for women's basketball more broadly, the media circus surrounding Angel Reese, and which networks would be possible suitors for women's NCAA Tournament rights. The crew also discusses men's Final Four ratings and what to expect from the men's Championship number. Then, Jon and Drew talk about what to expect from The Masters this weekend, and which storylines could draw the biggest audience. Finally, Jon runs through the rest of the weekend in sports ratings including MLB opening day...
2023-04-0441 minSports Media Watch PodcastSMW Podcast: Taylor Twellman interview + NCAA & XFL ratingsOn today's episode of the SMW Podcast, Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner discuss the latest NCAA and XFL ratings news, plus (alongside contributor Adam Gostomelsky) host Apple TV lead MLS analyst Taylor Twellman joins the show for an impassioned and wide ranging interview.Twellman discusses what the MLS deal with Apple TV means for the state of the league, how MLS can grow its audience despite a limited linear reach, dispels some misconceptions about the new deal, and gets into how coverage of the league has changed in its first few weeks on Apple. Then Twellman discusses so...
2023-03-2854 minSports Media Watch PodcastSMW Podcast: NCAA Tournament ratings, World Baseball Classic and moreOn today's episode of the Sports Media Watch Podcast, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner recap the past weekend of March Madness on both the men's and women's side. Then, the crew hits on the excitement around this year's World Baseball Classic and how that could become a tentpole event for baseball in the future. Lastly, Jon takes on some quick hitters including the upcoming ESPN layoffs, NBA media rights, and our favorite topic -- XFL ratings.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2023-03-2132 minSports Media Watch PodcastSMW Podcast: NCAA Tournament talk, NBA ratings and moreOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis is joined by Drew Lerner to discuss the upcoming NCAA Tournaments, including Stan Van Gundy making his collegiate debut replacing Reggie Miller, the last hurrah for Jim Nantz, and the women's championship game airing on ABC for the first time. Then, the crew gets into NBA and motorsports ratings, the rumors that Adam Silver could be tapped as Bob Iger's successor, and acknowledges the passing of Tampa Bay Rays broadcaster Dave Wills.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2023-03-0833 minSports Media Watch PodcastSMW Podcast: LeBron injury + XFL and LIV ratingsOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis is joined by Drew Lerner to discuss the week's sports media news including how LeBron's injury impacts the end of the NBA regular season, whether or not the league has an injury problem, and Charles Barkley's comments on load management. Then they get into how the XFL's ratings fared in week 2, LIV Golf's opening weekend on The CW, and some more wonky ratings discussion on Nielsen's undercount of Super Bowl viewership.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2023-03-0135 minSports Media Watch PodcastSMW Podcast: NBA All-Star Game, Daytona and moreOn today's episode of the Sports Media Watch Podcast, Dr. Jon Lewis and Drew Lerner dive into a surprisingly jam-packed weekend in sports. Topics include what the NBA should do with the All Star Game to make it watchable, how the XFL fared in its third iteration debut and what success would look like for the league, rumblings that Daytona ratings are down and what the current landscape is for motorsports on TV, the impending Diamond Sports bankruptcy and what it means for the future of RSNs, and the PGA gets its Tiger bump at Riviera but LIV is...
2023-02-2237 minSports Media Watch PodcastSMW Podcast: Analyzing Super Bowl ratings + guest Bill SheaOn today's episode, Dr. Jon Lewis is joined by Bill Shea of The Athletic to dive into Super Bowl ratings, Terry Bradshaw's not-so-friendly words for Andy Reid during the Lombardi Trophy ceremony, and Kevin Burkhardt and Greg Olsen's performance. Then, Jon takes on some quick hits about NBC kicking the tires on NBA rights, Derek Jeter to FOX, the Michael Irvin fiasco, LSU/South Carolina's ratings record, LIV Golf on the CW, and the New York Times' handling of the shooting at Michigan State.Bill Shea on measuring Super Bowl ratings:"It's...
2023-02-1541 minSports Media Watch PodcastSMW Podcast 2/10: Super Bowl previewA new iteration of the Sports Media Watch Podcast premieres with Dr. Jon Lewis and host Drew Lerner discussing ratings for the upcoming Super Bowl. Topics discussed include Jon's Super Bowl ratings predictions, a dive into ratings data in the out-of-home era and the inexact science behind Nielsen's measurements, whether Super Bowl ratings deterioration is something for the NFL and networks to worry about, and why Nielsen has chosen to conduct their fast nationals a bit differently this year. Then, Jon takes on some quick hitters and discusses ratings for LeBron's record breaking night, Charles Barkley to CNN rumors, and...
2023-02-1131 min
MindStrong#70 - Jon Lewis | Leaving No Stone UnturnedIn this episode, I speak with Jon Lewis, Elite Fast Bowling Coach for England Cricket. Jon also played cricket for England, Gloucestershire, Surrey and Sussex, where he was a teammate, roommate, mentor and coach of mine.A career that spanned 20 years and taking over 1000 first-class wickets across all formats. I thought Jon would be a good guest on the show however I was blown away at how good the conversation was.We talk about a range of awesome topics, from what it takes to make it as a top professional, how to be patient as...
2021-04-061h 23