Jimmy Traina is leaving Sports Illustrated. The sports media podcast host confirmed his exit Wednesday after more than 20 years.
What We Know: Traina spent over two decades at the publication, building a reputation across multiple formats. He created Hot Clicks from 2007 to 2013, then launched SI Media with Jimmy Traina, a podcast that became a go-to stop for the top names in sports media. Traina says he will write his final SI column Friday and discuss his departure on this week’s podcast episode.
What They Said: Jimmy Traina (via X): “After 20+ years, I have made the difficult decision to leave Sports Illustrated. It’s time for me to do something different & evolve with the changing sports media landscape. I will always be grateful to SI for all of the opportunities and a life-changing run. I will talk about my time at SI on this week’s “SI Media With Jimmy Traina” and write my final column on Friday. More to come very soon on what’s next (I’ll still be covering sports media) and I won’t be on the sidelines for long. Hopefully you will continue to support me the way you have during my many years at SI. Unfortunately, you will need to subscribe to a new podcast. Follow me on social media or send me an email to be kept up to date on details.”
What Remains Unclear: Traina’s next destination is unknown.
What It Means: Traina’s exit removes a major voice from sports media coverage for Sports Illustrated. In addition, it will be very difficult to find someone who could command attention and an audience that Traina has developed over two decades. Meanwhile, his promise to keep covering the industry signals a quick pivot elsewhere. Moreover, given his roster of A-list contacts, competitors will likely watch closely. Ultimately, his next move could reshape where sports media conversations happen next.
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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.