Awful Announcing Podcast

Host Brandon Contes interviews "Inside the NBA" host and co-host of "The Big Podcast with Shaq," Adam Lefkoe. Brandon and Adam discuss a wide range of topics including lots of talk about "Inside the NBA" and the crew, reporting that Doc Rivers was heading to the Milwaukee Bucks and the uneasiness throughout the night when that wasn't immediately confirmed, interviewing LeBron James after he broke Kareem Abdul-Jabbar's career scoring record, and more.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:55: Going viral
-1:37: Building an audience after going viral
-4:08: Building a career in sports media
-5:52: Starting in the midwest
-8:05: Syracuse grads entering sports media
-9:56: "Seinfeld"
-10:51: "SportsCenter" anchor?
-13:29: Jerry Seinfeld
-14:30: Being Shaquille O’Neal’s co-host
-18:35: Similarities between hosting podcast with Shaq and hosting "Inside the NBA"
-20:37: Reason why Shaq was late Tuesday night?
-22:29: Preparation changes when Shaq is late
-24:21: First season working for TNT
-29:28: Working in the bubble
-31:07: Benefits of having Shaq there for the Tuesday show
-33:19: Pressure of being compared to the Thursday “Inside the NBA” show?
-35:37: Camaraderie between both shows
-37:40: Ernie Johnson as an influence
-39:29: Getting to know Charles Barkley
-42:54: Will Charles retire?
-43:54: What makes the “Inside the NBA” group so special?
-46:56: Thinking of the future
-48:42: “Monday Night Football” “audition” with Pat McAfee
-51:31: Envisioning McAfee’s dominance in sports media
-52:33: Reporting the "Doc Rivers to Bucks" news
-56:53: Worry about pushback on report
-58:01: Hosting "NBA on TNT Tuesday" when LeBron James broke the career scoring record

Host Brandon Contes interviews head Apple MLS commentator Taylor Twellman. Brandon and Taylor discuss a wide range of topics including giving Tom Brady broadcasting advice, Lionel Messi in MLS, leaving ESPN for Apple, and more.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:38: Excitement for start of MLS season
-1:51: Transition from pitch to booth
-3:29: Not giving bulletin board material when playing
-5:41: Times Taylor gave bulletin board material
-6:55: Robert Kraft’s involvement with the New England Revolution
-8:27: Tom Brady
-9:33: Broadcasting advice for Brady
-11:17: Apple’s first season in MLS
-12:30: Issues or complaints from fans about MLS on Apple
-13:22: MLS embracing streaming
-15:41: Lionel Messi effect for MLS 
-17:01: Can one player make such an impact for MLS?
-18:26: MLS talent level compared to England
-20:01: Messi with the media
-20:53: Different feel when doing Messi’s matches
-21:46: Transition from ESPN to Apple
-23:41: Enjoying doing other shows like “SportsCenter” and “First Take”
-25:33: Complaints from viewers
-26:08: ESPN daytime programming not putting enough focus on soccer
-27:45: Is talent or management more reluctant to talk soccer?
-29:32: Talking soccer with Stephen A. Smith
-30:47: Twitter post on leaving ESPN
-32:20: “What are we doing?” clip
-35:14: Realistic the USMNT should’ve won a World Cup by now?
-36:54: What’s held the USMNT back from making the World Cup quarterfinals?
-38:41: Working the World Cup as a broadcaster
-40:05: United States hosting the World Cup
-41:14: Reservations about going to other countries to play
-42:47: Soccer industry handling concussions
-44:36: Movement to make changes happen during matches?
-46:12: Heading in youth sports
-47:02: Diagnosed concussions
-47:47: Effects from concussions
-49:12: Support from others when speaking about concussions
-51:08: MLS referee lockout and starting season with temporary refs 
-51:59: Inter Miami’s 2024 season
-53:19: Messi backlash from China after missing Hong Kong friendly
-54:07 MLS season starting in February
-55:46: MLS players not named Messi that people should know about

Host Brandon Contes interviews legendary Fox NASCAR play-by-play commentator Mike Joy. Brandon and Mike discuss a wide range of topics including interviewing being on the call for some of the best, and most tragic, moments in Daytona 500 history, what happens to the Daytona 500 if the Super Bowl is moved to Presidents' Day Weekend, Kevin Harvick joining the Fox booth, and more.

Tune in for the 66th running of the Daytona 500 Sunday, February 18 at 2:30 et on Fox.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-45: Excitement for Mike’s 45th Daytona 500 compared to his first in 1977
-2:02: Getting into racing
-4:01: Getting discovered by Ken Squier
-5:39: Importance of 1979 Daytona 500
-8:26: Memories from broadcasting 1979 race on radio
-11:36: Calling Dale Earnhardt winning the 1998 Daytona 500
-13:31: Earnhardt’s demeanor at the Daytona 500 before and after winning 
-15:37: Calling the 2001 Daytona 500
-19:08: Balancing the emotions of the 2001 finish
-22:21: Kevin Harvick winning at Atlanta three weeks later
-24:03: Harvick in the broadcast booth
-26:11: Rotating panel of analysts vs having a permanent broadcast team
-27:21: How soon will Mike be able to tell who will be great in the booth or not?
-28:12: NFL possibly moving Super Bowl to Presidents' Day weekend
-30:31: State of NASCAR on TV
-33:43: Should NASCAR shorten races?
-36:21: Describing the start of the Daytona 500
-37:31: The unpredictability of the Daytona 500
-39:41: Winner that will bring big storylines
-41:06: Picking a winner?

Host Brandon Contes interviews host of "The Drive" on 610 AM in Kansas City, Carrington Harrison. Brandon and Carrington discuss a wide range of topics including interviewing Patrick Mahomes, Travis Kelce and Taylor Swift living in KC, Jason Whitlock in KC, watching The Decision with Nick Wright, and more.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:38: AA Podcast connections
-1:10: Confidence level in Kansas City entering Super Bowl LVIII
-2:18: Chiefs fandom
-4:04: Chiefs dynasty
-8:17: Broadcasting from Radio Row
-14:07: Interviewing Patrick Mahomes
-15:19: Mahomes as an interview
-16:50: Mahomes Super Bowl interview?
-17:27: How do the Chiefs handle the media? 
-19:27: Travis Kelce
-22:53: Taylor Swift living in Kansas City
-25:17: Have Chiefs fans accepted Swift as one of their own?
-27:21: How will Chiefs fans react if Swift isn’t at the Super Bowl?
-28:57: Pat McAfee shoutout
-30:39: Being a journalist
-33:31: Tyreek Hill audio
-39:29: Jason Whitlock in KC
-42:20: Interviewing Whitlock
-43:51: Nick Wright
-46:36: Is the national stage appealing?
-49:31: Wright as a mentor
-50:21: Wright as the LeBron guy
-51:05: Has Wright ever lost a debate?
-51:36: Andy Reid’s popularity
-53:45: Is Reid retiring?

Host Brandon Contes interviews NFL Network's Rich Eisen. Brandon and Rich discuss Jim Harbaugh leaving Michigan, Aaron Rodgers playing for the New York Jets and appearing on "The Pat McAfee Show," being Stuart Scott's friend, doing play-by-play for NFL Network, and more.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:34: Winning the “Awfulie” for Best Sports Radio Personality
-6:00: Michigan Wolverines and the sign stealing scandal
-12:09: Does Rich get bothered when he’s asked about Michigan’s sign stealing?
-12:55: Connor Stalions
-14:02: Jim Harbaugh leaving Michigan
-16:39: New York Jets and Aaron Rodgers
-18:42: Where will a Jets Super Bowl rank in Rich’s life?
-21:19: Thoughts on Rodgers during the NFL season
-23:26: Rodgers on Pat McAfee
-26:13: How Rich would interview Rodgers
-31:01: Should Jets advise Rodgers to not go on McAfee?
-33:05: Does McAfee’s audience match ESPN’s audience?
-34:54: Robert Saleh and Joe Beningo
-38:32: NFL playoff game on Peacock
-42:23: Could Super Bowl be someday behind a paywall?
-43:16: NFL equity stake in ESPN
-46:35: Competing for eyeballs in conjunction with ESPN
-48:03: Feelings it’s been over 20 years since Rich was at ESPN
-50:04: Chemistry with Stuart Scott
-51:49: Remembering Stuart
-54:20: What would Stuart be doing today?
-56:17: “The Rich Eisen Show”
-1:02:31: Hosting style
-1:05:42: Doing play-by-play
-1:11:03: Is there any difficulty going back and forth from radio host to play-by-play commentator?

Host Brandon Contes interviews CBS NFL sideline reporter Evan Washburn. Brandon and Evan discuss working the Super Bowl, interviewing the teams who lose big games, Charissa Thompson's sideline reporting admission, and more.

Evan will be on the sideline for the AFC Championship Game between the Kansas City Chiefs and Baltimore Ravens on Sunday 3:00 PM ET on CBS. Evan will also work Super Bowl LVIII, taking place February 11 on CBS and Nickelodeon.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:48: Being in hometown Baltimore for AFC Championship Game
-1:39: Pre-Ravens fandom
-2:37: What is Super Bowl week like?
-4:24: Not staying for the Super Bowl when CBS doesn’t have the game
-4:55: Working first Super Bowl
-6:47: Freezing up/funny moments on a broadcast
-7:49: Working with Ian Eagle and Charles Davis
-9:02: College basketball work
-9:37: Following college basketball during NFL season
-10:40: Getting into broadcasting
-12:43: Being in college
-16:41: Media interests
-19:56: More difficult to be accepted by coaches/players or broadcasting peers?
-22:15: Working with Jim Nantz and Tony Romo
-23:41: Challenges of joining the “A” crew late in the season
-25:22: Tony Romo’s preparation
-26:57: Wanting the chance to interview Taylor Swift?
-28:04: Toughest interview?
-32:00: “Competing” against the interview subject to get good answers?
-33:15: Charissa Thompson
-35:14: Did Thompson’s admission give sideline reporting a bad rap?
-36:49: Fighting through crowds for interviews at the Super Bowl
-38:56: Halftime interviews at the Super Bowl
-39:41: Evan’s wife going into labor while Evan was meeting with Bill Belichick and Tom Brady
-45:00: Info from pre-production meetings that Evan actually uses on the broadcast?
-48:42: Knowing what info to use in advance 
-51:28: The art of making the most of your limited time in sideline interviews
-53:26: Not wearing a hat on camera

Host Brandon Contes interviews "Undisputed" host and host of the "All Facts No Brakes" podcast Keyshawn Johnson. Brandon and Keyshawn discuss Keyshawn's new podcast, working with Skip Bayless, having conversations instead of debates, and more.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:38: Being on “Undisputed”
-1:06: Interest in sports media while playing
-2:14: Listening to sports talk radio while playing in New York
-3:11: Keyshawn’s new “All Facts No Brakes” podcast
-5:50: Keyshawn’s son taking part in the podcast
-6:33: Appeal of podcasting
-7:31: Active players in media
-8:31: Is an active player in media a distraction?
-9:25: Aaron Rodgers on “The Pat McAfee Show”
-10:16: Rodgers playing well after healing Achilles
-10:40: Working with Skip Bayless
-12:06: Rooting against the Cowboys because of Skip?
-12:38: Compelled to bring balance when Skip and Michael are big Cowboys fans?
-14:31: Having “conversations” with Skip Bayless and Stephen A. Smith instead of debating
-16:12: Does Skip see this as a conversation?
-17:37: Respecting Skip’s and Stephen A’s football opinions when they didn’t professionally play football
-20:34: Has Skip “won” any conversations against Keyshawn?
-21:05: Is Keyshawn in competition with “First Take?”
-22:31: Being let go by ESPN
-23:42: Doing morning radio
-25:57: Working with Max Kellerman
-26:52: Replacing Mike Golic and Shannon Sharpe at different times
-27:33: Does Jon Gruden deserve another chance at NFL coaching?
-29:02: Tom Brady
-30:41: Tony Romo
-32:14: Mike McCarthy as Cowboys coach in 2024?
-32:37: Where will Bill Belichick go in 2024?

Host Brandon Contes interviews former ESPN host and current writer for The Atlantic, Jemele Hill. Brandon and Jemele have an in-depth discussion about the Pat McAfee/Aaron Rodgers saga. From Rodgers insinuating Jimmy Kimmel was in the Jeffrey Epstein files to McAfee accusing ESPN exec Norby Williamson of trying to sabotage "The Pat McAfee Show." We also talk about "SC6," Stephen A. Smith, Skip Bayless, and more.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:56: Feelings toward ESPN about Pat McAfee/Aaron Rodgers/Norby Williamson/Jimmy Kimmel situation
-2:14: Internal conversations at ESPN regarding Rodgers
-4:54: Should ESPN talent be treated equally?
-6:39: Is McAfee giving other ESPN people the invitation to be controversial on the air?
-8:29: How does “The Pat McAfee Show” fit at ESPN?
-10:02: Where does McAfee rank in ESPN’s hierarchy?
-11:46: McAfee having leverage at ESPN
-13:54: Pat McAfee and Norby Williamson
-15:25: McAfee’s comments on Williamson
-18:25: Value of an exec to potentially not stop the sabotaging of a show on their network
-20:40: Calling out an exec on the air
-22:03: Should McAfee take on a more journalistic approach?
-25:35: What will ESPN do in regard to Aaron Rodgers?
-28:06: Would Jemele file a lawsuit if she was Kimmel?
-29:04: Who holds more power at Disney? Kimmel or McAfee?
-29:57: Has ESPN quietly removed the “stick to sports” mandate?
-31:55: Expectation of what the audience should get from an ESPN show 
-34:18: Is there an interviewer who could challenge Rodgers?
-35:45: Aaron Rodgers’ legacy
-39:37: Is this controversial attention beneficial for “The Pat McAfee Show?”
-40:47: Does ESPN view this as beneficial?
-41:48: Did Jemele wish she had this kind of freedom at ESPN?
-44:27: Value of traditional journalism at ESPN
-46:16: “SC6” as a personality driven show
-52:41: Trying to push back on the narratives
-56:10: Was “SC6” hurt by the SportsCenter brand or the 6:00 time slot?
-57:43: The Donald Trump tweet
-1:00:32: Any regrets to posting that?
-1:02:21: Potentially being Skip Bayless’ debate partner on “First Take”
-1:04:31: Working with Bayless
-1:05:25: “First Take” debating style
-1:07:36: Stephen A. Smith’s and Skip Bayless’ role and influence in sports and cable news debate

Host Brandon Contes interviews WFAN VP of Programming and host of the "Rights to Ricky Sanchez" podcast Spike Eskin. Brandon and Spike discuss a wide range of topics including what happened with Carl Banks and how things are going, paid interviews, not liking JJ Redick, and more.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:41: Are people complaining more about WFAN or the 76ers?
-1:41: Receiving feedback
-2:55: Has WFAN gone into the toilet?
-6:46: “Evan and Tiki”
-8:06: How long does it take for Spike to give a show time to develop?
-9:51: Shaun Morash
-14:09: Benefits of being the third person on a two-person radio show
-15:18: Awareness of the attention WFAN gets in the media
-19:27: Carl Banks situation
-21:37: Surprise that Banks said he wasn’t coming back on?
-24:40: Was Banks’ segments entertaining?
-26:04: Banks’ reluctance to be critical on the show
-28:05: Gregg Giannotti defending Sal Licata
-29:10: Value of weekly paid interviews with players and coaches
-31:57: Aaron Rodgers being paid for being on Pat McAfee?
-34:26: Rodgers in NYC sports talk radio scene
-35:43: Does Spike listen to shows not on WFAN or CBS Sports Radio?
-36:48: Most talented sports radio/podcast host?
-39:30: Stugotz at WFAN?
-40:28: Mike Francesa part-time at WFAN?
-43:16: Having the task of replacing Craig Carton
-47:12: Role in replacing Angelo Cataldi
-48:13: Reaching out to people to replace Carton
-50:18: Thoughts on potentially replacing Boomer Esiason
-51:52: The appeal of local sports radio for retired athletes and coaches
-53:50: ESPN New York
-54:59: Podcasting
-56:43: JJ Redick
-58:00: Growing up as a Knicks fan
-59:43: Joe Beningo revealing texts with Robert Saleh

It's a special episode of the Awful Announcing Podcast. The first half of our show has host Brandon Contes sitting down with fellow members of the Awful Announcing staff. Ben Koo, Andrew Bucholtz, and Sean Keeley discuss the winners from the 2023 Awfulies, including Pat McAfee winning Sports Media Person of the Year, Stephen A. Smith winning Best Sports Debate Personality, and Greg Olsen winning Game Analyst of the Year.

Afterward, we put together a collection of clips from our first 30 episodes in 2023. We thank you for listening/viewing the podcast, and have a happy holiday season.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-1:04: Pat McAfee as Sports Media Person of the Year
-8:55: Kevin Brown suspended from Orioles as Top Sports Media Story
-16:57: Greg Olsen as Game Analyst of the Year
-26:46: Stephen A. Smith as Best Sports Debate Personality, First Take as Best Sports Debate Show, and Skip Bayless as Worst Sports Debate Personality
-38:01: Disney selling ABC as Most Overblown Sports Media Story
-39:33: College football changes in 2024
-41:07: Ted Lasso as Best Scripted Sports TV Show

-43:39: Bomani Jones on Stephen A. Smith entering politics (Episode 1)
-45:31: Mark Schlereth on the softness of today’s NBA (Episode 6)
-47:13: Brian Windhorst on covering LeBron James (Episode 7)
-54:03: Craig Carton on getting the opportunity to return to WFAN (Episode 16)
-55:12: Chris Myers on interviewing O.J. Simpson (Episode 18)
-59:27: Pablo Torre on confronting Dan LeBatard about interviewing Donald Trump (Episode 20)
-1:05:23: Michelle Beadle on LeBron James and Rachel Nichols’ roles in getting Michelle replaced on “NBA Countdown” (Episode 21)
-1:10:45: Trey Wingo on working “SportsCenter” with Bob Ley on 9/11 (Episode 23)
-1:15:45: Jay Crawford on Jalen Rose being banned from “First Take” (Episode 24)
-1:22:20: Dan Patrick on anchoring “SportsCenter” with Keith Olbermann (Episode 26)
-1:28:50: Jason Benetti on working with Bill Walton (Episode 29)

Host Brandon Contes interviews Fox NFL rules analyst Dean Blandino. Brandon and Dean discuss a wide range of topics including Dean's thoughts on the Brotherly Shove, being on Jerry Jones' party bus, being Fox's rules analyst, and more.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:42: What Dean misses most about Long Island
-1:39: What Dean misses most about being NFL VP of Officiating
-2:35: Is refereeing a “thankless job?”
-4:00: Being a replay official
-4:51: Goals from having internship in NFL officiating department
-5:25: How do referees get to the NFL?
-6:29: Officials looking down on Dean because Dean wasn’t an on-field ref
-7:31: Could Dean have been an on-field ref?
-7:51: Calls from coaches as VP of Officiating
-8:25: Coaches Dean dreaded talking to?
-9:26: Players who were more difficult to deal with?
-10:20: Going from VP of Officiating to an on-air rules analyst for Fox 
-11:35: Communicating with Mike Pereira
-12:00: Does Dean have issues with saying something was a bad call on air?
-13:42: Working with Joe Buck and Troy Aikman
-14:20: Does Dean prefer the booth or the command center?
-15:06: Does Dean have more to offer as an analyst?
-16:33: Working with Kevin Burkhardt and Greg Olsen
-17:16: Prospect of working with Tom Brady
-17:50: Has Brady reached out about anything rules or broadcasting related?
-18:13: Aaron Rodgers’ comments about networks stealing the best referees to be rules analysts
-19:18: Should NFL referees be full-time?
-21:06: What does an official do during the week?
-22:21: What does Dean do during the week?
-23:04: Sports betting and refereeing
-24:23: NFL officials being approached to manipulate games for betting reasons?
-25:28: NFL impacting scores in terms of adjusting how many flags are thrown from week to week?
-27:05: Favorite rule change
-27:41: Should there be more reviewable plays?
-28:55: Working with the XFL
-29:43: Brotherly Shove
-31:43: Future of the NFL in terms of player safety
-33:06: Rules protecting the quarterback
-34:05: Does Dean receive more complaints when working at the league office or as a rules analyst?
-34:50: Working the Super Bowl
-35:51: Dean’s most controversial decision as a replay official
-36:44: Being on Jerry Jones’ party bus
-38:16: Was the NFL bothered by that?
-39:13: Stand up comedy

Host Brandon Contes interviews Fox broadcaster and new voice of the Detroit Tigers Jason Benetti. Brandon and Jason discuss a wide range of topics including working with Bill Walton, Kevin Brown's suspension from the Orioles, having cerebral palsy, leaving the Chicago White Sox to become the TV voice of the Detroit Tigers, and more.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:37: Being the voice of the Detroit Tigers
-1:12: White Sox voice being a “dream job”
-3:05: Being a White Sox fan while calling games
-4:39: Is it easier or harder to call games of a team being a fan of?
-7:23: Why was Detroit the right fit?
-8:46: Relationship with White Sox front office 
-9:59: Complaints from Jerry Reinsdorf?
-11:21: Is Reinsdorf the same owner with the White Sox as he is with the Bulls?
-13:31: Surprised by the press and attention about getting the Tigers job
-16:08: Striving to have a deep connection to fans on a local MLB broadcast
-20:01: Did the Kevin Brown situation play a role in Jason going to the Tigers?
-22:01: Would Jason have trouble working for a team that wouldn’t allow him to be critical of that team?
-25:01: Interviewing for the Tigers
-27:16: Challenge of replacing Hawk Harrelson
-28:50: White Sox hiring Tony La Russa
-30:25: La Russa sleeping in dugout
-32:11: Being in the clubhouse and be available to the team before the game
-34:20: Tigers analysts
-35:09: Having a say in broadcast partners?
-35:57: Doing national broadcasts along with local broadcasts
-36:27: Is local MLB broadcasting always going to be a part of Jason’s career?
-38:55: Having cerebral palsy and being a broadcaster
-41:33: Being self-conscious about being on camera
-42:35: Going to law school
-44:27: Who would make a better attorney? Jason or Bill Walton?
-46:21: Working with Walton
-47:19: Things Walton said on the broadcast that surprised Jason?
-50:12: Having trust in Walton’s filter for a national audience

Host Brandon Contes interviews co-host of "Shan & RJ" on 105.3 The Fan, Shan Shariff. Brandon and Shan discuss a wide range of topics including hanging Mark Cuban selling the Mavericks, interviewing Jerry Jones every week, his dislike for Skip Bayless, his respect of Stephen A. Smith, his falling out with Dan Orlovsky, and more.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:37: Mark Cuban selling the Dallas Mavericks
-1:58: Ulterior motives from Cuban?
-3:12: Cuban retaining control of the team
-4:26: How does Dallas feel about Mark Cuban?
-6:05: Is Jerry Jones liked in Dallas?
-6:52: Interviewing Jones every week
-8:34: Surprised Jones is this involved and open to the media at his age? 
-10:44: Surprising or strangest things Jones said that stick out?
-14:10: Interviewing Michael Irvin as he reveals his Marriott encounter before the Super Bowl
-15:49: Still interviewing Irvin?
-17:30: Were there issues with how the interview happened?
-18:57: When did Shan realize this was a major story?
-20:18: Are fans buying into the Cowboys?
-21:27: Do Cowboys fans have more faith in Dak Prescott or Mike McCarthy?
-23:14: QB’s to trust to win in Philadelphia
-24:49: Stephen A. Smith
-27:46: Surprised Stephen A. came on the show?
-28:21: Opinion of Stephen A. and “First Take”
-31:27: Dan Orlovsky
-33:58: How do Cowboys fans feel about Skip Bayless?
-36:59: Would Shan prefer Skip to be genuine?
-38:14: Does Dallas claim Skip Bayless?
-39:02: Does Cowboys talk on debate shows do it any justice?
-41:59: National voice aside from Skip Bayless that Shan rolls his eyes when they talk Cowboys
-43:21: Doing sports talk radio in Kansas City
-44:37: Nick Wright
-45:30: Surprised that Wright is now on a national platform?
-48:05: Shan’s “dream job?”
-50:29: Fitting in at Dallas
-52:48: Paying Mark Cuban’s restaurant tab
-53:44: How do the Rangers stack up among the Dallas teams even after winning World Series?
-55:11: Will the Cowboys model the Rangers and win the Super Bowl?
-56:11: Rooting for the Cowboys

Host Brandon Contes interviews NBA on TNT reporter and host of "NBA CrunchTime" on the NBA app, Jared Greenberg. Brandon and Jared discuss a wide range of topics including hanging out with the "Inside the NBA" guys, being in the bubble during COVID, being on the receiving end of Gregg Popovich's interviews, remembering Kobe Bryant, and more.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:40: Seeing Victor Wembanyama up close
-2:01: “NBA CrunchTime”
-2:56: Preparation for “NBA CrunchTime”
-6:55: Developing flow at hosting a whiparound show
-10:46: Working at Warner Bros. Discovery
-11:43: Pre-WBD
-12:56: Covering Kyrie Irving in high school
-13:25: “Inside the NBA”
-17:04: “Inside the NBA” roles
-18:47: Charles Barkley
-19:55: Drinking with Barkley
-22:10: Imaging Barkley retiring from “Inside the NBA”
-24:36: Imagining Ernie Johnson retiring from “Inside the NBA”
-25:21: What makes the “Inside the NBA” group so special?
-27:07: Being in the bubble
-29:32: Was it challenging being in one location for so long?
-31:23: Jamal Murray interview
-32:33: Approach to doing postgame interviews
-35:06: Gregg Popovich
-38:26: Favorite players or coaches to interview
-39:31: Kevin Durant
-42:57: Kobe Bryant
-45:10: Covering Kobe’s death/dealing with Rick Fox hoax
-47:45: Emotions at “Inside the NBA” when Kobe died
-50:12: Rick Fox
-52:08: Nets fandom when Jared was a kid
-53:06: Ian Eagle
-55:14: NBA In-Season Tournament
-56:37: How will people view the In-Season Tournament in 10 years?

While on Barstool Sports' "Pardon My Take" podcast, Charissa Thompson revealed she would make up a sideline report if extenuating circumstances prevented her from getting a report. Thompson noted instances like the head coach not coming out at halftime or that it was too late to get an interview as examples where Thompson would come up with basic talking points that a head coach might say if they were to talk to her. While Thompson revealed this years before, it's brought strong reactions and on a live edition of the "Awful Announcing Podcast," host Brandon Contes talks with Oakland A's reporter and "Short and to the Point" host Jessica Kleinschmidt about Thompson's comments.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

Host Brandon Contes interviews former "SportsCenter" and current host of "The Dan Patrick Show," Dan Patrick. Brandon and Dan discuss a wide range of topics including anchoring "SportsCenter," working in radio, retiring in four years, hosting "Jeopardy!," and more.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:40: Is this part of a retirement tour or a book tour?
-1:00: Collaborating with Joel Cohen
-2:55: Coming up with the format of the book
-4:30: Writing a book forward
-6:05: Most extensive book tour? Dan’s or Stephen A. Smith’s?
-7:10: Retirement talk
-8:22: Retirement announcement taking off
-9:41: Concern about being someone that social media views is too old and wants to point out every mistake
-11:08: Is four years long enough for Dan to welcome retirement?
-13:34: Being the “old man” at “SportsCenter”
-14:56: Radio
-16:40: Making producers part of the show
-18:28: Howard Stern
-19:26: Celebrities on “The Dan Patrick Show”
-20:38: Adam Sandler movies
-21:38: Interest in acting?
-22:12: “SportsCenter” as a creative outlet
-23:21: Creative freedom at ESPN
-25:05: Having more to offer as a radio host while at ESPN
-26:34: Anchoring “SportsCenter” with Keith Olbermann
-29:32: Confidence to push limits on “SportsCenter”
-31:55: Moment that got Dan and Keith in management’s office
-33:01: Future of “SportsCenter”
-34:55: The impact of embrace debate
-37:03: Do debate shows rely too much on topics like LeBron James and the Dallas Cowboys?
-38:11: The “Dan Patrick brand”
-39:20: Would Dan host a podcast in retirement?
-40:17: Keith Olbermann not having a long-term home post-ESPN
-42:03: Going political?/Sharing a name with an outspoken politician
-44:11: Interviewing presidents
-45:21: Interacting with Donald Trump
-46:24: Someone Dan would like to interview that he hasn’t yet
-48:27: Michael Jordan
-49:19: Matt Harvey/Kyler Murray interviews
-51:10: Did NBC/“Football Night in America” feel bigger than “SportsCenter”
-52:28: Did “Football Night in America” affect what Dan could say about the NFL on his radio show?
-54:01: “Jeopardy!”
-56:31: Were there discussions for Dan to host after Trebek passed away?
-58:12: Challenge of hosting “Jeopardy!”
-59:18: Reaction to Aaron Rodgers hosting “Jeopardy!”
-1:00:12: Was Dan glad “The Price is Right” didn’t reveal the pay in order to tempt him to host?

Host Brandon Contes interviews Steve Letarte, NASCAR on NBC analyst and former Daytona 500 winning crew chief for Jeff Gordon and Dale Earnhardt Jr. Brandon and Steve discuss a wide range of topics including working for Hendrick Motorsports, improving as a broadcaster, previewing the NASCAR Championship 4, the New England Patriots rebuilding, and more.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:47: Adrenaline of calling a championship race
-1:38: Working for Hendrick Motorsports at 16
-4:39: How people become crew chiefs
-5:52: “Pinch me” moments
-7:39: What was more special? Winning the Daytona 500 with Jeff Gordon or with Dale Earnhardt Jr.
-8:58: Interactions between a crew chief and a driver during a race
-10:46: Steve’s interactions between Gordon and Dale Jr.
-12:24: Watching the race as a crew chief on the pit box
-13:03: Watching the race as an analyst in the broadcasting booth
-14:35: Finding the balance in broadcasting to diehard and casual race fans
-16:54: Does Steve have the itch to go back to being a full-time crew chief?
-17:39: Ending up at NBC
-19:03: Dale Jr. as a media personality
-19:57: Working with Dale Jr.
-21:17: How has Steve improved as a broadcaster?
-24:09: NASCAR viewership
-26:28: Rightsholders helping NASCAR reach younger demographics 
-28:45: Shortening races
-31:05: “Dirty Mo Dough/Has betting changed NASCAR broadcasts?
-35:00: Favorite bet for the final race
-36:14: Are the Championship 4 the best four drivers of this season?
-37:35: Internal competition among teammates
-38:55: Differences of Phoenix Raceway since last March
-40:50: The “race car drivers aren’t real athletes” argument
-43:28: Mac Jones
-44:35: Bill Belichick

Host Brandon Contes interviews Jay Crawford, former ESPN "SportsCenter" anchor/"First Take" host and current host of the "Ultimate Cleveland Sports Show" and WKYC NBC anchor. Brandon and Jay discuss a wide range of topics including covering Deshaun Watson, working with Skip Bayless and Stephen A. Smith, coming back home to Cleveland, and more.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:48: Having a low 90s fastball
-2:21: Jay’s Minor League Baseball career
-7:19: Thoughts on playing a full season?
-9:20: Going from ESPN to local TV in Cleveland
-18:56: Audience for local sports show on YouTube
-27:15: Covering the Deshaun Watson trade while also covering his sexual misconduct allegations
-33:50: How do Cleveland sports fans feel about Watson?
-36:46: Dealing with “The Decision” as a Cleveland sports fan and ESPN employee
-41:36: Working with Skip Bayless
-45:06: Is what Skip does an act?
-49:14: Woody Paige/Skip Bayless fight
-53:10: The blueberry muffin story
-59:46: Did others like working with Stephen A./Skip?
-1:06:42: Being in “Rocky Balboa”
-1:07:44: Not being in “Draft Day” despite being a Cleveland Browns fan

Host Brandon Contes interviews Trey Wingo, former ESPN "SportsCenter" anchor and "NFL Live" host, and current co-host of the "Chasin' It" podcast with Chase Daniel. Brandon and Trey discuss a wide range of topics including having the scoop first that Aaron Rodgers was going to the Jets, not being a morning person, working with Bob Ley on 9/11, and more.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:48: Thinking of Hawaii
-2:45: Is Taylor Swift “moving the needle” on Trey’s podcast?
-4:19: Swift’s ability to overshadow the NFL
-5:30: Chase Daniel
-6:39: Daniel co-hosting “Golic & Wingo”
-8:05: Freedom in the podcast space post-ESPN
-9:04: Does Trey miss being at ESPN?
-9:34: Leaving ESPN
-11:00: Taking over for Mike Greenberg to host morning show with Mike Golic
-12:49: “Golic & Wingo”
-15:17: Taking the morning show offer
-15:55: Would Golic and Wingo still be at ESPN if Trey stayed on as morning show host?
-17:27: Is ESPN Radio a prominent platform anymore?
-18:36: Focusing on major markets when doing national radio?
-19:47: Having the Aaron Rodgers to the Jets scoop
-22:07: Reaction to the reaction of the Rodgers report
-22:49: Hearing from Rodgers’ camp?
-23:23: Will Rodgers return this season?
-24:22: Fame of being at ESPN
-25:58: "SportsCenter"
-28:43: Writing on "SportsCenter"
-30:11: Anchoring "SportsCenter" with Bob Ley on 9/11
-33:29: Comfort level in the moment covering 9/11 on live TV
-35:11: Working the 2020 NFL Draft
-38:55: Favorite episode or moment on "NFL Live"
-42:01: Shift in how hard hits and head injuries are covered on "NFL Live"
-44:19: NFL as a league long-term
-47:23: Complaints from the NFL and Roger Goodell about things said on the air
-48:37: Doing play-by-play
-49:40: Would Trey go back to work full time at a network?
-50:17: Thoughts on ESPN going all in on Stephen A. Smith and Pat McAfee
-51:03: Would ESPN executives eventually sour on McAfee?
-52:19: Stunt app

Host Brandon Contes interviews Kenny Albert, NFL on Fox broadcaster, NHL on TNT broadcaster, New York Rangers and Knicks broadcaster, and author of the book "A Mic For All Seasons." Brandon and Kenny discuss a wide range of topics including Charles Barkley as an NHL analyst, working with Tony Siragusa, covering all four major American sports, and more.

For even more discussion, head over to awfulannouncing.com and follow us on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, Threads, LinkedIn, TikTok, Bluesky, and YouTube: @awfulannouncing.

-:51: Kenny on his new book “A Mic For All Seasons”
-3:06: Book media tour
-5:49: Being Marv Albert’s son
-8:34: Getting broadcasting experience
-9:19: Wanting to be a sportscaster
-9:53: “Pinch me” moment?
-11:26: Combating nepotism
-13:57: Fox NFL coverage after 30 years
-15:40: Shock inside Fox that Joe Buck and Troy Aikman left for ESPN
-17:37: Aspirations to be lead NFL Fox analyst?
-19:33: Being lead NHL voice for NBC and then TNT
-21:31: Charles Barkley’s NHL fandom
-22:25: Barkley as an NHL analyst
-23:29: Most entertaining athlete to interview
-24:56: Tom Brady to Fox
-25:43: Wayne Gretzky
-27:43: Barry Trotz
-31:07: Tony Siragusa
-34:10: Building chemistry with top analysts like Troy Aikman or Tim McCarver who are used to working with someone else
-36:07: Terry Bradshaw
-37:09: Analyst Kenny most wanted to work with
-37:50: Was there difficulties working for MSG after Marv Albert’s falling out with James Dolan?
-39:36: Would Marv come out of retirement to do one more game?
-40:31: Passing Marv in frequent flyer miles?
-40:57: Closest Kenny came to missing a broadcast due to travel
-42:16: Does travel make it easier or harder to prepare for a broadcast?
-43:06: Working four different sports in four days
-43:55: Taking pride in having versatility
-44:51: Olympics
-45:49: Is Kenny looking to cut back on working so many broadcasts?
-46:31: Fear of making mistakes on the call doing so many broadcasts
-47:11: Specific call that Kenny would like to have a do-over?
-48:19: Specific favorite/memorable call
-50:42: Using the restroom during broadcasts