Bleav in The Pressrow

Ever wondered what it takes to become the voice of an NHL team? Join us as we sit down with Rick Ball, the new play-by-play announcer for the Chicago Blackhawks, and uncover his incredible journey from Kelowna to Calgary and now to the Windy City. Rick shares his rich history, including his education at the British Columbia Institute of Technology, and his unbridled enthusiasm for covering a potential generational talent like Connor Bedard. Gain insight into the personal and professional highs and lows that shaped his career, and discover why Rick is so excited to work alongside Darren Pang in a city with deep hockey roots. (00:00) - Rick Ball in the Press Row (10:57) - Navigating Bias in Play-by-Play Commentary (17:45) - Importance of Game Day Preparation (22:08) - Broadcast Booth Locations Impact Game Experience (31:38) - NHL Broadcaster's Favorite Road Cities (35:51) - NHL Expansion Talks and Chicago Blackhawks   For more, be sure to visit Yyzsportsmedia.com and follow @yyzsportsmedia

Ever wondered what it feels like to witness historic Olympic moments up close? Julie recounts a heartwarming story with Canadian sprinter Donovan Bailey, reminiscing about his unforgettable victories at the 1996 Atlanta Games. We also capture the surreal atmosphere of Paris post-Olympics, where the city, adorned with the Olympic rings, provided a magical backdrop. From the intensity of the games to the serenity of summer travel, Julie’s adventures take us from the vibrant streets of Paris to the tranquil beauty of Saint-Tropez, leading into her exciting interview with US Women’s National Team goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher. (00:00) Sports Media and Olympic Coverage (12:54) Emotional Olympics and Paris Trip (18:57) Summer Adventures and Fantasy Football Auction (22:44) Sports Broadcasting and Fantasy Football (30:22) Career Diversity and Adaptability (33:51) Authenticity and Connection in Sports Broadcasting (39:58) Hockey Broadcasting Dream Goal (45:04) Hockey Coverage Evolution and Personalities For more, be sure to visit Yyzsportsmedia.com and follow @yyzsportsmedia

Join us for an exciting episode where we sit down with the legendary John Buccigross from ESPN to explore the world of hockey broadcasting. We kick things off by setting the scene during Seattle's Seafair weekend and discussing the intense nature of the NHL season for both players and broadcasters. John shares his unique experiences at the cutting-edge Sphere venue and offers intriguing insights into its potential for hosting various events. We also talk about the NHL draft, highlighting the personal touch it brings to young players and pondering the future of in-person drafts. (00:03) NHL Draft and Broadcast Discussions (10:25) Pursuing a Career in Sports Broadcasting (15:19) Transition to Video in Media (25:12) Hockey Broadcasting Career Success (30:42) Remembering Barry and Hockey Broadcasting (37:48) Hockey Broadcasting Career Paths (47:13) Sports Broadcasting Career Reflections For more, be sure to visit Yyzsportsmedia.com and follow @yyzsportsmedia

Ever wondered how a professional athlete makes the leap from the rink to the broadcast booth while juggling the demands of fatherhood? Join us for an insightful conversation with former NHL player and TSN hockey analyst Frankie Corrado as he takes us through his remarkable journey. You’ll hear firsthand about his unforgettable NHL debut with the Vancouver Canucks, including the surreal experience of playing against hockey legends like Kane, Toews, Hossa, Keith, and Seabrook. Frankie opens up about the challenges and joys of balancing his new career with parenting premature twins, offering personal anecdotes and valuable advice along the way. (05:23 - 06:52) NHL Rookie Game Day Experience (12:03 - 13:42) Player Development and Toolbox in Hockey (18:32 - 19:34) Overthinking in Baseball Performance (20:55 - 22:14) Importance of Coaching Character in Hockey (25:45 - 27:47) Coaching Style and Team Dynamics (28:49 - 30:53) Transition to Sports Broadcasting Career (32:40 - 33:20) Staying Relevant in the League (37:27 - 38:12) Discussion on Mitch Marner's Trade Speculation (48:38 - 49:35) Off-Season Hockey Insights For more, be sure to visit Yyzsportsmedia.com and follow @yyzsportsmedia

Baseball journalism isn't what it used to be, and Richard Griffin knows why. Join us on this episode of Press Row for an eye-opening conversation with the acclaimed sportswriter, who takes us through his remarkable journey from the PR department of the Montreal Expos to the press box covering the Toronto Blue Jays. Richard offers an insider's view on the evolving landscape of baseball journalism, and the tricky transition from team PR roles to media coverage, and even throws light on the latest buzz around Shohei Ohtani and the wild atmosphere of the MLB winter meetings. (03:41 - 05:52) Career Evolution in Sports Journalism (13:14 - 13:58) Media Impact on Canadian Audience Perception (16:00 - 18:44) MLB Tax and Safety Conditions (21:29 - 22:42) Blue Jays Front Office Decision Making (31:42 - 32:42) Blue Jays Owner's Generosity Questioned (38:54 - 41:08) Comparing Blue Jays Potential Signings (45:08 - 47:49) Managerial Experience and Analytics in Baseball (52:09 - 54:31) Baseball Fan Talks Team Relocation For more, be sure to visit Yyzsportsmedia.com and follow @yyzsportsmedia

In our conversation, Kenny opens up about the tightrope walk of fitting in while standing out in the sports broadcasting world. He brings to life his experiences with iconic colleagues like Bob Lee, Charlie Steiner, and Dan Patrick, shedding light on how trust and authenticity play crucial roles in building a successful media career. We also reflect on the groundbreaking contributions of colleagues like Stuart Scott, whose cultural perspective forever changed sports broadcasting. Through Kenny's anecdotes, we gain an understanding of the balance required to cover both lighthearted and serious stories with equal care. (00:04 - 00:55) Legendary Reunion With Kenny Mayne (07:32 - 08:34) Fast Track to TV Broadcasting Career (11:39 - 13:08) Sports Night's Early Influence at ESPN (16:43 - 18:23) Impactful Personalities in Broadcasting (20:58 - 21:58) Main Event (37:57 - 39:12) Life After ESPN (42:55 - 43:54) Players' Impact on Professional Sports (47:32 - 48:23) Challenges Facing Sports Beat Reporters For more, be sure to visit Yyzsportsmedia.com and follow @yyzsportsmedia

Join us as we welcome back the insightful Jon Morosi from MLB Network, who shares his latest adventures and sheds light on key developments within Major League Baseball. From enjoying the picturesque weather in Seattle to attending an OHL game and gearing up for the NHL draft in Vegas, Jon’s journey is captivating. We dig into MLB Commissioner Rob Manfred's ambitious plans to enhance media accessibility and expand the league to 32 teams, along with the latest updates on ballpark projects in Tampa Bay and Oakland. Plus, we celebrate the success of international MLB events like the London Series and the World Baseball Classic. (00:02 - 01:17) Summer Activities and Family Catch Up (75 Seconds) (04:47 - 06:40) MLB Expansion and International Growth (113 Seconds) (08:40 - 10:01) Baseball Broadcasting Rights Variations (81 Seconds) (11:47 - 12:29) Reevaluating the Baseball Fan Identity (42 Seconds) (15:49 - 16:26) Toronto Blue Jays Playoff Contention (37 Seconds) (19:33 - 20:50) New York Mets Offseason Speculation (77 Seconds) (25:48 - 27:38) Go All in in Sports Importance (110 Seconds) (31:34 - 32:36) Maple Leafs and Mariners Discussion (62 Seconds) (47:32 - 48:49) Impact of International Players on Baseball (77 Seconds) For more, be sure to visit Yyzsportsmedia.com and follow @yyzsportsmedia

Ever wondered what it takes to transition from the intensity of an NHL crease to the fast-paced world of sports media? Join us for an exclusive conversation with Kevin Weekes, a former NHL goalie who shares his captivating journey from the streets of Toronto to the spotlight of hockey broadcasting. Kevin offers an inside look at his family's immigrant experience from Barbados, the unique challenges faced by goalies, and how standing out in this specialized position shaped his career. (00:01) Kevin Weekes Interview, Former NHL Goalie (09:32) Black Goalies and Mentors in Hockey (17:02) Changing Dynamics of Coaching in Sports (23:25) The Evolution of Goaltending and Coaching (32:42) Goalies Overcoached in NHL Development (39:37) Goalie Mentality and Endurance in NHL (48:49) Goalie Psychology and Offseason Predictions (55:50) Expansion Plans and NHL Union Insights (01:07:42) Optimizing NHL Fan Engagement and Coverage (01:13:39) Inspiring Stories in Hockey World For more, be sure to visit Yyzsportsmedia.com and follow @yyzsportsmedia

Nick Kypreos of Sportsnet 590 joins us to break down the dynamic landscape of sports media in our latest episode, sharing his insights on how the industry has adapted in the wake of the pandemic. We've moved our broadcasts from Zoom to Google, leveling up the quality and technical aspects of our program. Nick also sheds light on the fast-paced nature of national sports broadcasting and the strategic decision to expand our coverage from a Maple Leafs-centric view to encompassing national sports narratives, proving that the joy and excitement in our work parallels the thrill of playing a beloved game.   In this episode of The Press Row, Jonah talks with Nick about: (00:04) Evolution of Sports Media (12:30) Coaching's Impact in the NHL (19:29) Power Struggles in Hockey Management (25:22) Assessing Brendan Shanahan's Toronto Maple Leafs' Leadership (33:46) Hockey Defense and Taking Action (52:19) Shanahan and Treliving Mindsets and Expectations (01:00:18) Complimenting Accountability in a Radio Show For more, be sure to visit Yyzsportsmedia.com and follow @yyzsportsmedia

Ever wondered how the gladiators of the ice navigate life after the final buzzer? Strap in as we join Glenn Healy, the esteemed NHL Alumni Association executive and former NHL goalie, for an eye-opening conversation on the evolution of sports media, player rights, and the transitions athletes face post-retirement. Our chat uncovers the layers of player advocacy, the impact of league decisions, and Glenn’s voyage from the crease to the boardroom. We promise you'll gain a newfound appreciation for the battles fought behind the scenes to secure the rights and benefits that modern NHL players enjoy.   In this episode of The Press Row, Jonah talks with Glenn about: (00:01) - Sports Media and NHL Players' Association (11:04) - Evolving Perspective of a Hockey Player (18:53) - Supporting NHL Players in Post-Career Transitions (33:15) - Player Benefits and Career Paths in Hockey (42:37) - Defending and Changing in Hockey (50:42) - Challenges With NHL Teams and Goaltenders For more, be sure to visit Yyzsportsmedia.com and follow @yyzsportsmedia

Join us as we navigate the rapidly evolving landscape of sports gambling in Canada with Amanda Brewer, a seasoned expert in corporate communications and PR with a rich history in the gaming industry. Amanda provides a comprehensive understanding of the legislative changes occurring in the gambling market and the potential impacts. She shares her insights on the recent legalization of sports gambling in Canada, and we discuss the potential implications of Shohei Otani joining the Toronto Blue Jays. Our conversation also highlights the complexities involved in changing legislation to allow single bets on sports and the role of social media in promoting gambling.   In this episode of The Press Row, Jonah talks with Amanda about: (00:25 - 02:18) The Evolving World of Sports Gambling (07:25 - 08:16) Career and Ontario Casino Market Overview (14:27 - 15:43) Influencers and Betting in Streamcasts (18:03 - 19:17) Closure of Cannabis and Sports Betting (21:00 - 22:11) Ontario's Casino Market and Online Gambling (26:58 - 28:07) The Evolution of Fan Engagement (31:53 - 33:08) Sports Betting Legality in the US (36:15 - 38:10) Rogers' Confusing Exit From the Industry (41:20 - 42:28) Social Media's Negative Impact on Athletics (49:55 - 51:21) Gaming Apps and Frustrations With Ads For more, be sure to visit Yyzsportsmedia.com and follow @yyzsportsmedia

In this insightful episode, we further discuss the recent events surrounding the Toronto Blue Jays and their management team, Ross Atkins and Mark Shapiro. Get to know more about Shapiro's public speaking skills and his role in decision-making for the team. We explore the potential moves the Blue Jays could make, including the possibility of acquiring one of the best players in the world, Shohei Ohtani. Lastly, join us as we discuss the impact of Rogers' ownership on the team and the recent increase in ticket prices. This episode promises to provide an informative look into the current state of the Blue Jays and their plans. In this episode of The Press Row, Jonah talks with Richard about: Challenges of Running a Sports Franchise Toronto Blue Jays and Front Office Otani's Value and Blue Jays' Involvement Blue Jays' Offseason Plans and Signings For more, be sure to visit Yyzsportsmedia.com and follow @yyzsportsmedia

Ever thought about what it's like behind the scenes of the fast-paced world of sports media? Join us as we sit down with award-winning TV producer, Dan Gladman, to get the inside scoop. From his time with the Toronto Raptors during their championship years to producing the iconic Kawhi Leonard shot Gladman's stories are a slam dunk. He also shares his thoughts on the geopolitical situation and its impact on sports. With Gladman's expertise, we cover the court of sports media, offering you a unique perspective from the control room to the finish line. In this episode of The Press Row, Jonah talks with Dan about: Memorable Moments in Toronto Sports Fascination With MLSE Ownership Structure Frustration With Canadian Hockey Broadcasts Former Student Becomes Successful Sideline Reporter Technology's Role in Teaching Exploring Canadian Companies and Arena Partnerships For more, be sure to visit Yyzsportsmedia.com and follow @yyzsportsmedia

Since retiring from the NHL, Ray has become a stamp on EA Hockey's NHL game. Ferraro was a memorable player on the New York Islanders team in 1993. In 1993, he scored two overtime goals against the Washington Capitals during a Stanley Cup playoff game as the Islanders defeated both the Capitals and the Pittsburgh Penguins, which led to a Stanley Cup win. In this episode of The Press Row, Jonah talks with Justin about: Ray’s Step back How the NHL has changed?   What’s going on with the Maple Leafs?  What's going on with the Canadian teams?   Who’s going to win the cup?  For more, be sure to visit Yyzsportsmedia.com and follow @yyzsportsmedia  

Commencing his professional journey, Justin embarked on his career with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, initially holding roles as a writer and a media coordinator. He subsequently transitioned to TSN, where he assumed the position of lead editor, overseeing content related to the NFL, MMA, and NCAA. This valuable experience paved the way for his current position at theScore. Presently, Justin, alongside Jonah, delves into discussions about the ongoing NFL season and its encompassing intricacies. In this episode of The Press Row, Jonah talks with Justin about: Justin's Story  Is Redzone Bad?  Running Backs Not Getting Paid Seahawks 3-Headed Monster   New Rookie Qbs Are the Detroit Lions Legit? Sean Peyton’s New Gig NFL Premium Plus    For more, be sure to visit Yyzsportsmedia.com and follow @yyzsportsmedia