ESPN’s new executive vice president and executive editor of sports news and entertainment, Mike Foss, reportedly addressed nearly 100 ESPN staffers in Bristol on Wednesday. The executive vice president used the gathering to reset the network’s on-air and social media philosophy.
What We Know: According to Puck’s John Ourand, ESPN’s “embrace debate” mantra that took hold years ago and led to smashing success is evolving. Notably, Wednesday’s meeting was a moment where Foss reportedly laid out his vision for embracing more authenticity. He reportedly wants on-air programming to manufacture less and “reveal” more. According to Ourand, the ESPN layoffs from last week were not addressed during the gathering. The meeting was more focused on providing data showing ESPN’s brand of “synthetic conflict” wasn’t resonating like it has. Foss also discussed his expectations for how talent should use social media. The new approach involves understanding programs are still live even after they air.
What’s They Said: Outgoing ESPN Executive Vice President and Executive Editor of Sports News and Entertainment on Mike Foss (via Barrett Media): “Without question, his strengths will help continue to grow this operation. It’s going to be fun to watch him in action as he takes on this even bigger challenge. He knows what he’s doing. He’s more than prepared to do what he has to do to continue to evolve the product and the people who work on the product. He’s a winner, and I already know he will continue to win.”
What Remains Unclear: Still, several questions linger ahead of ESPN’s first Super Bowl broadcast next February. Also how studio programs and talent will pivot with the evolving vision of Foss.
What It Means: Ultimately, Foss’s pitch signals a shift from manufactured shouting toward personality-driven authenticity. With a new set of eyes overseeing the product, Foss is aiming to put his stamp on the network’s approach quickly. Consequently, ESPN appears to be betting this approach connects better with younger, platform-agnostic viewers. Still, Foss maintains that linear television remains the priority, even as short clips travel across social platforms. Therefore, ESPN’s Super Bowl coverage could become the first major test of this reframed strategy.
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John Mamola is Barrett Media’s sports editor and daily sports columnist. He brings over two decades of experience (Chicago, Tampa/St Petersburg) in the broadcast industry with expertise in brand management, sales, promotions, producing, imaging, hosting, talent coaching, talent development, web development, social media strategy and design, video production, creative writing, partnership building, communication/networking with a long track record of growth and success. He is a five-time recognized top 20 program director in a major market via Barrett Medi’s Top 20 series and has been honored internally multiple times as station/brand of the year (Tampa, FL) and employee of the month (Tampa, FL) by iHeartMedia. Connect with John by email at John@BarrettMedia.com.