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Last Word On Sports Media Podcast — Sports
Last Word On Sports Media Podcast

The Last Word On Sports Media Podcast is a sports media analysis and commentary show hosted by veteran broadcaster T.J. Rives. It explores the business, television production, legal affairs, personalities, and behind-the-scenes decision-making that shape the American sports media ecosystem.
Broadcasters, public relations executives, and network producers who want to keep up with industry trends, ratings, and network movements along with fans who enjoy analyzing game calls, officiating decisions, camera coverage, broadcast rights, and network programming will enjoy this podcast featuring content beyond just the scores on the field.

Coverage of major TV networks (ESPN, NBC, CBS, FOX, ABC) and streaming platforms (Amazon Prime, Netflix), including broadcast booth reviews, ratings breakdowns, and production quality.

Off-Field & Media Controversies: Discussions on newsroom conflicts of interest, journalist ethics, legal injunctions, and off-field scandals affecting teams and media figures.

Officiating & Rules Analysis: Expert breakdowns of replay decisions, stadium clock discrepancies, and officiating transparency.

League & Business Affairs: Coverage of college football realignment, conference politics, player NIL/roster disputes, and financial crises like team or league bankruptcy filings.

T.J. Rives regularly brings on high-profile guests—such as former team executives, public relations strategists, sports media critics, and veteran broadcasters—who provide firsthand insider perspective. Rather than focusing purely on standard game recaps, the show evaluates how stories are reported, who is telling them, and the media dynamics at play. The podcast quickly reacts to emerging, real-time storylines—ranging from viral officiating audio leaks and network power outages to legal disputes—offering sharp analysis while news is actively unfolding.

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Copyright: © All rights reserved.

Latest Episodes:

Full Ep: Jeff Joniak Voice of Chicago Bears, Part II 9 14 21 Sep 14, 2021

Show notes

Part two of our interview with Jeff Joniak, longtime voice of the Bears, includes his dalliance with weather forecasting. (Math played a big role) Joniak also discusses how he got the broadcasting bug and the difficulties in being the Bears radio announcer and both the anchors and Bears reporter for WBBM Newsradio in Chicago.
And then there was was his rocky relationship with his father and his undying love for his two daughters.
“Tell me a story I don’t know” is proudly sponsored by Rahl Jewelers on Barrington road in Hoffman Estates where you come in as customer and leave as a friend. (Rahljewelers.com), And by Dynamic Manufacturing where there’s nothing they can’t do! (dynamicmanufacturinginc.com). “Tell me a story I don’t know” is also sponsored by the Paulina Market, top purveyors of the finest meats and so much more. (Paulinamarket.com). And by the Vienna Beef Company, makers of the Chicago hotdog since 1893.(viennabeef.com).
Hear full episodes and make sure to follow us and subscribe at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google and wherever you get your podcasts.
Follow, Like and Comment on the Show:
Apple
Spotify
Amazon Music
Come talk with TJ on X:
@ItsTJRives

Ciip: Jeff Joniak, Bears Broadcaster, Part II Tease 9 13 21 Sep 13, 2021

Show notes

Part two of our interview with Jeff Joniak, longtime voice of the Bears, includes his dalliance with weather forecasting. (Math played a big role) Joniak also discusses how he got the broadcasting bug and the difficulties in being the Bears radio announcer and both the anchors and Bears reporter for WBBM Newsradio in Chicago.
Hear the Full Show Tuesday and follow/subscribe to "Tell Me a Story I Don't Know" on Apple Podcasts,
Spotify, Google, etc.!!
“Tell me a story I don’t know” is proudly sponsored by Rahl Jewelers on Barrington road in Hoffman Estates where you come in as customer and leave as a friend. (Rahljewelers.com), And by Dynamic Manufacturing where there’s nothing they can’t do! (dynamicmanufacturinginc.com). “Tell me a story I don’t know” is also sponsored by the Paulina Market, top purveyors of the finest meats and so much more. (Paulinamarket.com). And by the Vienna Beef Company, makers of the Chicago hotdog since 1893.(viennabeef.com)
Follow, Like and Comment on the Show:
Apple
Spotify
Amazon Music
Come talk with TJ on X:
@ItsTJRives

Full Ep: College Football Scores in Early Ratings and NFL is Back! 9 7 21 Sep 07, 2021

Show notes

On a brand new edition of the show, host T.J. Rives returns with the owner/operator of SportsMediaWatch.com, Jon Lewis to cover mostly the return of FOOTBALL to our screens.
T.J. and Jon go over the ratings successes in primetime for Fox last Thursday and ESPN/ABC on Saturday and Sunday nights. Is this a sign that college football ratings are going to soar this year or is Jon still skeptical that it will keep up?
The guys also discuss the pre game shows "College Gameday" and it's new gaining audience counterpart, "Big Noon Pregame" on Fox Sports. Jon goes over what he likes and dislikes about both.
Then, the attention turns to the start of the 2021 NFL season. And, it begins with the new traditional Thursday night home game for the Super Bowl champs, the Bucs hosting the Cowboys. Will this be a ratings bonanza for NBC? What about legendary p x p man, Al Michaels? Is it his last go around for the network, which has the Super Bowl in L.A. in February?
T.J. and Jon wrap it up with another "Love it or Leave it", including Notre Dame coach Brian Kelly's controversial post-game comment Sunday night about his own team and whether Jon hates alternate jerseys and uniforms or not?
It's all part of the "SportsMediaWatch.com Podcast" and make sure to follow/subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spreaker, Spotify, Google podcasts, etc.!!
Follow, Like and Comment on the Show:
Apple
Spotify
Amazon Music
Come talk with TJ on X:
@ItsTJRives

Full Ep: Jeff Joniak Voice of Chicago Bears 9 7 21 Sep 07, 2021

Show notes

Who better to begin season three of “Tell me a story I don’t know” than a voice that has become as synonymous with the Chicago Bears as the term, “Monsters of the Midway.” Jeff Joniak begins his 21st season as lead radio voice of the Bears, delivering a vibrant and passionate call along with his long time partner and analyst Tom Thayer. During part one of of this season debut podcast, Joniak recalls vividly how the now famous term, “You are ridiculous” became part of our sports lexicon. Joniak also discusses the impact Justin Fields could have on a team starving for a franchise quarterback.
Part two of this joyous interview with Joniak debuts on September 14th.
“Tell me a story I don’t know” is proudly sponsored by Rahl Jewelers on Barrington road in Hoffman Estates where you come in as customer and leave as a friend. (Rahljewelers.com), And by Dynamic manufacturing where there’s nothing they can’t do! (dynamicmanufacturinginc.com). “Tell me a story I don’t know is also sponsored by the Paulina Market, top purveyors of the finest meats and so much more (Paulinamarket.com). And by the Vienna Beef Company, makers of the Chicago hotdog since 1893.(viennabeef.com).
Hear full episodes and make sure to follow us and subscribe at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google and wherever you get your podcasts.
Follow, Like and Comment on the Show:
Apple
Spotify
Amazon Music
Come talk with TJ on X:
@ItsTJRives

Clip: Jeff Joniak Voice of Chicago Bears- Tease 9 6 21 Sep 06, 2021

Show notes

Who better to begin season three of “Tell me a story I don’t know” than a voice that has become as synonymous with the Chicago Bears as the term, “Monsters of the Midway.” Jeff Joniak begins his 21st season as lead radio voice of the Bears, delivering a vibrant and passionate call along with his long time partner and analyst Tom Thayer.
Hear the Full conversation with Jeff on Tuesday and subscribe at Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google and wherever you get your podcasts.
“Tell me a story I don’t know” is proudly sponsored by Rahl Jewelers on Barrington road in Hoffman Estates where you come in as customer and leave as a friend. (Rahljewelers.com), And by Dynamic manufacturing where there’s nothing they can’t do! (dynamicmanufacturinginc.com). “Tell me a story I don’t know is also sponsored by the Paulina Market, top purveyors of the finest meats and so much more (Paulinamarket.com). And by the Vienna Beef Company, makers of the Chicago hotdog since 1893.(viennabeef.com).
Follow, Like and Comment on the Show:
Apple
Spotify
Amazon Music
Come talk with TJ on X:
@ItsTJRives

Full Ep: Rachel Nichols out at ESPN, MNF new Manning show & more! 8 31 21 Aug 31, 2021

Show notes

It's our latest edition of the SportsMediaWatch.com Podcast, and host T.J. Rives is back with Jon Lewis (aka "Paulsen" from the site). And, they are ready to dive into several subjects involving national TV, coverage and moves being made.
First, the guys discuss the messy departure of Rachel Nichols from ESPN, as it is now official. She's gone from their NBA coverage and the network. Will she land at another prominent NBA place? Jon has his thoughts.
Plus, he follows up on his writings on the site about the deplorable revolving door of talent that ESPN goes through. And, he gives thoughts on Peyton and Eli Manning starting a Monday Night Football show on ESPN2 to compete with the game broadcast. Hint: Jon's not a fan.
Then, the T.J. and Jon discuss the new re-launch of NBC's "Football Night in America" pre-game show and game coverage of the NFL. This includes recently departed ESPN host Maria Taylor being put into her new role at the Peacock network. Plus, Jon gives his opinions on the best NFL studio shows out there.
Finally, the guys also play some more "Love it or Leave it?!" with the subjects including Fantasy Football, Pro Wrestling, and yes, even chicken wings!
Hear it all on the "SportsMediaWatch.com Podcast" and make sure to follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, etc.!!
Follow, Like and Comment on the Show:
Apple
Spotify
Amazon Music
Come talk with TJ on X:
@ItsTJRives

Full Ep: Best of Season Two Show Two 8 31 21 Aug 31, 2021

Show notes

In the season 2 finale we go back to five great stories by five great story tellers. From keith Olbermann’s dalliance with the city of Chicago to the wildly entertaining Dan Plesac’s recollections of pitching out of the bullpen to Ron Coomer’s heartwarming story about growing up a Cubs fan, season two offered some downright wonderful tales. And this episode also includes umpire Dan Bellino’s thoughts on instant replay and Chip Caray’s vivid recollection of Kerry Wood’s 20 strikeout, one hit masterpiece.
We invite to subscribe to “Tell me a story I don’t know as season three commences on September 7th with a very familiar voice of the NFL.
“Tell me a story I don’t know” is proudly sponsored by Dynamic Manufacturing where there’s nothing they can’t do (dynamic manufacturing inc.com). And by Rahl Jewelers on Barrington Road in Hoffman Estates, where you come in as a customer and leave as a friend (Rahljewelers.com). “Tell me a story I don’t know is also sponsored by the Paulina Market, top purveyors of the finest meats and so much more (paulinamarket.com) and by the Vienna Beef Company, makers of ‘Chicago’s hotdog’ sine 1893 (viennabeef.com).
Hear full episodes and make sure to follow us and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, etc.
Follow, Like and Comment on the Show:
Apple
Spotify
Amazon Music
Come talk with TJ on X:
@ItsTJRives

Clip: Best of Season Two Part II Tease 8 30 21 Aug 30, 2021

Show notes

In the season 2 finale we go back to five great stories by five great story tellers. From keith Olbermann’s dalliance with the city of Chicago to the wildly entertaining Dan Plesac’s recollections of pitching out of the bullpen to Ron Coomer’s heartwarming story about growing up a Cubs fan, season two offered some downright wonderful tales. And this episode also includes umpire Dan Bellino’s thoughts on instant replay and Chip Caray’s vivid recollection of Kerry Wood’s 20 strikeout, one hit masterpiece.
Get ready for the "Best of Season's Two, Part II" on Tuesday.
And, we invite to subscribe to “Tell me a story I don’t know as season three commences on September 7th with a very familiar voice of the NFL.
“Tell me a story I don’t know” is proudly sponsored by Dynamic Manufacturing where there’s nothing they can’t do (dynamic manufacturing inc.com). And by Rahl Jewelers on Barrington Road in Schaumburg where you come in as a customer and leave as a friend (Rahljewelers.com). “Tell me a story I don’t know is also sponsored by the Paulina Market, top purveyors of the finest meats and so much more (paulinamarket.com) and by the Vienna Beef Company, makers of ‘Chicago’s hotdog’ sine 1893 (viennabeef.com).
Hear full episodes and make sure to follow us and subscribe on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, etc
Follow, Like and Comment on the Show:
Apple
Spotify
Amazon Music
Come talk with TJ on X:
@ItsTJRives

Full Ep: Bob Costas To Turner? ESPN Changes & more! 8 25 21 Aug 25, 2021

Show notes

On the latest edition of our show, host T.J. Rives is back with the owner/operator of SportsMediaWatch.com, Jon Lewis.
The guys are ready to discuss the news of the weekend, including Hall of Fame MLB broadcaster Bob Costas potentially returning to the post season with Turner Sports. What impact will that have on their National League Championship Series coverage, etc.?
Also, the guys talk about the personnel movements at ESPN, including Max Kellerman leaving "First Take" and Jacke MacMullen retiring from NBA coverage.
Then, there's the latest "Love it or Leave it" involving Little League World Series coverage, breakfast additives and even some late night comedy/talk show discussion, as well.
Hear it all on the "Sports Media Watch .com Podcast" and make sure to subscribe/follow and review us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, etc.!!
Follow, Like and Comment on the Show:
Apple
Spotify
Amazon Music
Come talk with TJ on X:
@ItsTJRives

Full Ep: Alan Schwartz- Hall of Fame Tennis Executive 8 24 21 Aug 24, 2021

Show notes

With the U.S. Tennis Tournament soon upon us, what a perfect time to feature a man who is in ten halls of fame! This is what a lifetime of work in the world of tennis has earned Alan Schwartz. He served as the USTA’s president, helped make the U.S. Open Tennis series a reality and built the largest indoor tennis facility in the country in Chicago in 1969. (and Mid-Town Tennis remains the largest).
Schwartz also worked diligently to promote women’s tennis while also being one of the driving forces behind bringing the prestigious Laver Cup to Chicago.
Entering his 90s, Schwartz is still as vibrant as ever, working out of his office as he tirelessly promotes the sport of tennis.
“Tell me a story I don’t know is sponsored by The Paulina Market (@paulinamarket.com) and by The Vienna Beef Company (@viennabeef.com. Hear full episodes and make sure to follow us on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Google, etc.
Follow, Like and Comment on the Show:
Apple
Spotify
Amazon Music
Come talk with TJ on X:
@ItsTJRives

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