Digest

The podcast begins with a discussion about the evolving nature of ESPN, highlighting the shift from traditional sports journalism to entertainment-driven content. The hosts discuss the departure of prominent figures and the rise of personalities like Shannon Sharp and Pat McAfee, emphasizing ESPN's embrace of individualism. The conversation then transitions to the upcoming Olympics in Paris, with the hosts sharing their thoughts on the opening ceremonies, the significance of Coco Gough being named the women's flag bearer, and the overall appeal of the Olympics. They engage in a humorous discussion about the Olympics 1,000 years ago, imagining a time when the torch relay involved a person running for months to deliver the flame. The hosts also debate the relevance of the torch relay in the modern age and discuss Snoop Dogg's role as a torch bearer in the Paris Olympics. The podcast features a live interview with Dave Zirin, a sports editor for The Nation, who provides insights into the political and social climate surrounding the Olympics in Paris, highlighting the heavy security presence, the displacement of homeless families, and the potential for protests. Zirin also discusses the strike at the IOC hotel and the possibility of the opening ceremony dancers going on strike. The hosts then engage in a discussion about the ethical implications of hosting the Olympics, questioning whether there is a way to do it without excessive militarization and environmental damage. They explore alternative models for international sports competitions.

Outlines

00:00:00

ESPN's Changing Landscape and the Rise of Individualism

The podcast discusses the shift in ESPN's content from traditional sports journalism to entertainment-driven programming, highlighting the departure of prominent figures and the rise of personalities like Shannon Sharp and Pat McAfee. The hosts argue that ESPN is embracing a more individualistic approach, prioritizing personalities over traditional journalism.

00:00:07

The Olympics in Paris: Challenges and Opportunities

The hosts discuss the upcoming Olympics in Paris, sharing their thoughts on the opening ceremonies, the significance of Coco Gough being named the women's flag bearer, and the overall appeal of the Olympics. They engage in a humorous discussion about the Olympics 1,000 years ago, imagining a time when the torch relay involved a person running for months to deliver the flame. The hosts also debate the relevance of the torch relay in the modern age and discuss Snoop Dogg's role as a torch bearer in the Paris Olympics.

00:29:13

Dave Zirin's Report from Paris: Political and Social Climate

The podcast features a live interview with Dave Zirin, a sports editor for The Nation, who provides insights into the political and social climate surrounding the Olympics in Paris, highlighting the heavy security presence, the displacement of homeless families, and the potential for protests. Zirin also discusses the strike at the IOC hotel and the possibility of the opening ceremony dancers going on strike.

00:35:32

The Ethics of Hosting the Olympics: A Critical Examination

The hosts engage in a discussion about the ethical implications of hosting the Olympics, questioning whether there is a way to do it without excessive militarization and environmental damage. They explore alternative models for international sports competitions.

00:41:55

Greg Cody's "Back in My Day" Segment and the Olympics in Paris

The hosts discuss Greg Cody's "Back in My Day" segment and its potential future. They debate whether it should become an occasional series or be discontinued altogether. Greg Cody recounts an incident where he was injured by a sharp key in the studio. The hosts then transition back to the Olympics, discussing the Morocco-Argentina game and the overall atmosphere in Paris.

Keywords

Q&A

• What are some of the key changes happening at ESPN?

  ESPN is shifting away from traditional sports journalism and towards entertainment-driven content. They are prioritizing personalities over traditional journalists and focusing on creating shows that are more entertaining and engaging for viewers.

• Why was Jerry Krauss's widow booed at a sporting event?

  Jerry Krauss's widow was booed because of his actions in breaking up a sports team. This incident highlights the tension between organizations and individuals winning championships, and how ESPN is embracing a more individualistic approach.

• What are some of the challenges facing the Olympics in Paris?

  The Olympics in Paris are facing challenges related to security, social unrest, and the potential for protests. There is a heavy security presence in the city, and there have been concerns about the displacement of homeless families.

• Is there an ethical way to host the Olympics?

  The ethics of hosting the Olympics are a complex issue. There are concerns about the environmental impact, the cost to host cities, and the militarization of public space. Some argue that the Olympics should be held in a limited number of locations, while others believe that a new model for international sports competitions is needed.

Show Notes