
The Press Box
The Ringer
The Ringer’s Bryan Curtis, David Shoemaker and Joel Anderson catch you up on the biggest media stories, from sports to politics and everything in between.
Location:
United States
Networks:
The Ringer
Description:
The Ringer’s Bryan Curtis, David Shoemaker and Joel Anderson catch you up on the biggest media stories, from sports to politics and everything in between.
Twitter:
@BillSimmons
Language:
English
Website:
https://theringer.com
Episodes
ESPN vs. NBC on the NBA, Trump’s Health, and the Splendid ‘Star Wars’ Discourse. Plus, a New Feature With Jason Concepcion.
5/26/2026
Today on The Press Box, Bryan and David kick things off by discussing Bryan's Memorial Day trip to the movie theater and why the ‘Star Wars’ discourse has become more interesting than the movies themselves. Then they offer a side-by-side comparison of the NBA playoff coverage on ESPN versus NBC (19:10) and analyze the recent reporting surrounding Donald Trump's health (44:52). Then they debut a brand-new segment, the Obligatory List, with some help from Jason Concepcion (49:00). Plus, the Overworked Twitter Joke of the Week, and David Shoemaker Guesses the Strained-Pun Headline! Hosts: Bryan Curtis and David Shoemaker Guest: Jason Concepcion Producer: Jon Roemer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:01:08:29
The Bulwark’s Sarah Longwell on Early 2028 Vibes, a Post-Trump GOP, and Building a Personality-Driven Media Company
5/25/2026
On today’s bonus episode of The Press Box, Bryan sits down with the Bulwark’s Sarah Longwell to discuss her early thoughts on the 2028 political landscape, starting the Bulwark (29:09), and much more. Host: Bryan CurtisGuest: Sarah LongwellProducers: Isaiah Blakely and Sarah Reddy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:00:56:16
Is Sports Journalism Dead? Plus: Google’s Killing Search and Fear and Loathing on the Wemby Beat.
5/21/2026
Today on The Press Box, Joel is back, and he’s here with Bryan to talk first about the sale of New York magazine. Then they talk about the changes coming to the Google search bar (9:13), whether sports journalism is dead like Dan Le Batard said (21:53), and more. Then they are joined by San Antonio Express-News sports columnist Mike Finger to discuss what it’s like covering Victor Wembanyama (58:27). Hosts: Bryan Curtis and Joel AndersonGuest: Mike FingerProducers: Isaiah Blakey, Jon Roemer, Oscar De La Luz, and Sarah Reddy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:01:22:41
Jon Krakauer on Climbing Mt. Everest, Writing Non-Fiction, and 30 Years of ‘Into Thin Air’
5/20/2026
On today’s bonus episode of The Press Box, Bryan is joined by bestselling author Jon Krakauer. It’s the 30th anniversary of his book ‘Into Thin Air,’ so they talk about climbing Mount Everest, the quick writing process of the book (21:25), why he stopped writing books (38:34), and much more.Host: Bryan CurtisGuest: Jon KrakauerProducers: Donald LoBianco Isaiah Blakely, and Oscar De La Luz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:00:44:48
How to Interview Wemby and the Clipping Nightmare. Plus: Stephen Colbert’s Last Stand, With Jason Zinoman.
5/19/2026
Today on The Press Box, Bryan and David react to a wild Game 1 of the Western Conference finals between the Spurs and Thunder, and they talk about how to revamp postgame interviews. Then they talk about another Bari Weiss story at CBS (15:28), the decline in “dad books” (22:01), a breakfast taco controversy (36:16), and much more. Then Bryan is joined by New York Times critic Jason Zinoman to discuss the end of Stephen Colbert’s late-night show (59:31). Plus, the Overworked Twitter Joke of the Week, and David Shoemaker Guesses the Strained-Pun Headline! Hosts: Bryan Curtis and David ShoemakerGuest: Jason ZinomanProducers: Isaiah Blakely, Jaime Yukich, and Jon Roemer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:01:23:52
A Fresh CBS Controversy, and Nick Kristof’s Column. Plus: A Midterms Check-in with Vox’s Benjy Sarlin
5/14/2026
Today on The Press Box, Joel is out, so Bryan is back with David and they start by discussing another Bari Weiss and CBS story. Then, they move to the discourse around Nick Kristof’s recent column (23:17), they say goodbye to a legendary sports broadcaster, and much more. Then, Bryan is joined by Vox’s senior editor for politics Benjy Sarlin to do a midterm elections check-in (37:10). Hosts: Bryan Curtis and David ShoemakerProducers: Isaiah Blakely, Jamie Yukich, and Ben Cruz Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:01:04:53
Rupert Murdoch vs. the NFL, The Daily Wire’s Fade, and Spencer Pratt for L.A. Mayor
5/12/2026
Today on The Press Box, Bryan and David start by talking stand-up comedy, specifically Bryan’s time at the Netflix Is a Joke Festival. Then they talk about what’s going on with the NFL TV rights negotiations (12:30), The Daily Wire fading away (24:33), Draymond Green vs. Charles Barkley (31:13), and much more. Then Bryan is joined by Politico’s California bureau chief, Melanie Mason, to talk about the Los Angeles mayoral race and the California gubernatorial race (47:31). Plus, the Overworked Twitter Joke of the Week, and David Shoemaker Guesses the Strained-Pun Headline! Hosts: Bryan Curtis and David ShoemakerGuest: Melanie MasonProducers: Bruce Baldwin, Isaiah Blakely, and Jamie Yukich Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:01:06:35
The GOP Depth Chart With Van Lathan
5/8/2026
Today on The Press Box, Joel is in L.A. with Bryan, and they are joined by Van Lathan Jr. He’s back this time to run through his GOP nominee depth chart. They discuss all types of potential candidates, including members of the current administration, former contenders (22:08), up-and-comers, outsiders (52:35), and more. Then, at the end, Van reveals who he thinks will most likely be the nominee (1:09:13). Hosts: Bryan Curtis and Joel AndersonGuest: Van Lathan Jr.Producers: Bruce Baldwin, Chris Thomas, Isaiah Blakely, and Jacob Cornett Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:01:18:23
Remembering Ted Turner, the Man Who Owned the Media, With Jason Gay
5/6/2026
Today on The Press Box, Bryan is joined by The Wall Street Journal’s Jason Gay to discuss Ted Turner's legacy following his death at the age of 87. They talk about the creation of CNN (8:40), what he meant in the world of sports (19:43), how his legacy will carry on (32:49), and much more. Host: Bryan CurtisGuest: Jason GayProducers: Bruce Baldwin, Isaiah Blakely, and Sarah Reddy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:00:40:56
A Murdoch Eyes ‘New York,’ and the ‘Times’ Lawsuit. Plus: Bill Carter on Colbert, Kimmel, and the Last Chapter of Late Night.
5/5/2026
Today on The Press Box, Bryan and David talk about oxpeckers in the media. They talk about the news of James Murdoch being in talks to buy parts of Vox Media and New York Magazine (11:03). Then, they talk about Trump almost giving a press conference in front of a bunch of golf reporters (26:13). They also discuss Adam Mockler vs. Scott Jennings(28:58), Tucker Carlson (32:02), some sports TV updates (37:54), and much more. Later, Bryan is joined by writer Bill Carter to talk about late-night comedy shows. They talk about the end of Stephen Colbert’s show, Jimmy Kimmel fighting cancellation, and more (49:43). Plus, David Shoemaker Guesses the Strained-Pun Headline! Hosts: Bryan Curtis and David ShoemakerGuest: Bill CarterProducers: Bruce Baldwin, Donald LoBianco, and Isaiah Blakely Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:01:28:09
Reporters Vs. Influencers at the Correspondents’ Dinner, a Senate Candidate’s Old Tweets, and Katie Baker from the Musk-Altman Trial
5/1/2026
Today on The Press Box, Bryan and David start with some follow-up stories on the Russini-Vrabel situation before talking more about the White House Correspondents' Dinner and the work reporters and influencers did at the event (13:12). They also discuss a Michigan Senate candidate's old tweets (28:33), another attempt at cancelling Jimmy Kimmel (38:42), and more. Then, Bryan is joined by Katie Baker, who is at the Elon Musk-Sam Altman trial and walks us through her observations of the proceedings (54:06). Plus, the Overworked Twitter Joke of the Week, and David Shoemaker Guesses the Strained-Pun Headline! Read Katie Baker’s piece about the trial here. Hosts: Bryan Curtis and David ShoemakerGuest: Katie BakerProducers: Bruce Baldwin, Isaiah Blakely, Jamie Yukich, and Sarah Reddy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:01:23:00
Anna Wintour, the Age of Magazines, and ‘The Devil Wears Prada 2’ with Amanda Dobbins
4/29/2026
On today’s bonus episode of The Press Box, Bryan is joined by Amanda Dobbins to discuss Anna Wintour and the upcoming movie 'The Devil Wears Prada 2.' Amanda provides a spoiler-free review of the movie. Then, they discuss Wintour’s rise to power in the fashion world (18:23) and what that power looks like today (38:30. Host: Bryan CurtisGuest: Amanda DobbinsProducers: Bruce Baldwin, Donald LoBianco, Isaiah Blakely, and Sarah Reddy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:00:49:34
What Happened at the Correspondents’ Dinner, the 'New York Times’ Is Doing Ringer Podcasts, and the Worst Reviews of ‘Michael’
4/28/2026
Today on The Press Box, Bryan and Joel discuss their thoughts about the shooting at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner. Then, they are joined by Washington Post reporter Kara Voght who was at the dinner and she talks about what that night was like from her perspective (26:20). Then, they talk about the reviews of the Michael Jackson biopic, Michael’ (47:14), New York Times podcast strategy (54:10), the NFL Draft (1:07:00) and more. Including wrapping up with another edition of J School (1:18:12). Hosts: Bryan Curtis and Joel AndersonGuest: Kara VoghtProducers: Bruce Baldwin, Isaiah Blakely, and Jamie Yukich Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:01:28:25
More on Vrabel and Russini, the FBI Investigates a Reporter, and Buying Your Way Into the Broadcast Booth
4/23/2026
Today on The Press Box, Bryan and David are back, and they start with some newsworthy items from David's time at WrestleMania. Then they react to more photos of Dianna Russini and Mike Vrabel (8:16). They also talk about the coverage of the NFL draft (26:00), the FBI’s reported investigation of a New York Times reporter who covered Kash Patel (44:20), and much more. Plus, David Shoemaker Guesses the Strained-Pun Headline. Hosts: Bryan Curtis and David ShoemakerProducers: Bruce Baldwin, Isaiah Blakely, Jamie Yukich, and Sarah Reddy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:01:00:35
Kash Patel vs. The Atlantic, Mike Vrabel Speaks, and Why NBC Wants Mike Tomlin. Plus, Jordan Ritter Conn on 'American Men.'
4/21/2026
Today on The Press Box, Bryan and Joel start with Kash Patel’s lawsuit against The Atlantic. Then they react to New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel speaking to the media for the first time since photos of him and Dianna Russini in Arizona were released (16:41). They also discuss Mike Tomlin to NBC (23:37), NBA score bug issues (34:42), The Washington Post hiring (43:38), and much more. Then Joel talks to Jordan Ritter Conn, Ringer writer and the author of 'American Men,' about the process of writing this book, what masculinity looks like today, and much more (51:49). Hosts: Bryan Curtis and Joel AndersonGuest: Jordan Ritter ConnProducers: Bruce Baldwin, Isaiah Blakely, Ryan Todd, and Sarah Reddy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:01:15:52
Rueben Bain Jr.’s Measurables and JD Vance’s Humiliations. Plus, Scott MacFarlane on Life After CBS.
4/17/2026
Today on The Press Box, Bryan and Joel discuss the recent news about Rueben Bain Jr., and they discuss how much we should know about NFL draft prospects. Then, they talk about JD Vance (20:41), media sales news (27:53), and the Masters (32:25). Then, they are joined by MeidasTouch chief Washington correspondent Scott MacFarlane to talk about covering the attempted Trump assassination, his last few months at CBS News, joining MeidasTouch, and much more, including a Joel Anderson lightning round (39:54). They wrap up the show with the return of J School (1:23:16). Hosts: Bryan Curtis and Joel AndersonGuest: Scott MacFarlaneProducers: Bruce Baldwin, Isaiah Blakely, and Jamie Yukich Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:01:33:31
Dianna Russini Resigns From The Athletic
4/15/2026
Today on The Press Box, breaking news: Dianna Russini resigned from The Athletic. So Bryan was joined by Joel Anderson and Nora Princiotti to give their reactions to the resignation and discuss what they think could be next for Russini. Before the news broke, the trio recorded a whole other podcast about their thoughts on the Vrabel-Russini story (16:39), and they discussed what it’s like being a woman in sports media (54:30) and what the point of sports insiders is in today’s media landscape (1:04:19). Hosts: Bryan Curtis and Joel AndersonGuest: Nora PrinciottiProducers: Bruce Baldwin, Isaiah Blakely, and Jamie YukichAdditional Production Supervision: Conor Nevins Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:01:35:05
Sam Altman and Trump’s War Room. Plus, ESPN Draft Guru Mel Kiper Jr.
4/10/2026
Today on The Press Box, Bryan and Joel start by talking about two big pieces that have dropped this week. First is a story from the New York Times taking us inside the White House and how Trump led the United States into war with Iran. The second piece is from the New Yorker, about OpenAI’s CEO Sam Altman (13:00). Lastly, they discuss the news and drama surrounding pictures released of NFL insider Dianna Russini and New England Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel hanging out poolside in Arizona (21:13). Then, they are joined by ESPN’s draft expert Mel Kiper Jr (30:50). They discuss how he got into draft coverage, handling criticism, and much more. Then in Joel’s lightning round, Mel says who some of his favorite prospects have been at each position he’s ever scouted (1:04:35). Hosts: Bryan Curtis and Joel AndersonProducers: Bruce Baldwin, Donald LoBianco, Isaiah Blakely, and Sarah Reddy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:01:23:11
The April Issue: The 50th Anniversary of 'All the President’s Men' With Sean Fennessey
4/8/2026
It’s time for the April issue! Bryan is joined by Sean Fennessey to talk about 'All the President’s Men' in honor of its 50th anniversary. They start by discussing how this movie plays in today’s climate politically and journalistically. Then they talk about all the major players that are involved in this movie—from the stars, including Robert Redford (10:56) and Dustin Hoffman (49:10), to the filmmakers, including Alan Pakula(1:00:14)—and some of their favorite cameos (53:47). Host: Bryan CurtisGuest: Sean FennesseyProducers: Bruce Baldwin, Isaiah Blakely, and Sarah Reddy Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:01:23:25
Trump’s Iran Threats, Vanity Fair’s Chloe Fineman Cleanup, and Bryan’s Spring Break Adventures
4/7/2026
Today on The Press Box, Bryan and David start by catching up about Bryan’s spring break trip. Then they talk about Trump’s Iran tweets (15:28), Bill Raftery’s obscure reference during the national championship (19:07), and much more. Later on, they talk about what to do with ESPN Radio (50:17) and discuss what makes a great used bookstore (57:25). Plus, the Overworked Twitter Joke of the Week, and David Shoemaker Guesses the Strained-Pun Headline! Hosts: Bryan Curtis and David ShoemakerProducers: Bruce Baldwin and Isaiah Blakely Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Duration:01:11:03