Le Batard & Friends - South Beach Sessions

Don’t worry, the consummate comedian Sam Morril doesn’t understand Dan Le Batard’s fascination with comedians either... Sam shares his thoughts with Dan on the “slow climb” of making it in comedy and how everyone’s been forced to adapt to the new status quo, no matter how funny they are. They look at the role of "freedom of speech" in the scene today and debate if all comedy comes from a place of pain. Dan and Sam also open up about their rigid self-critique and, naturally, they talk about what brought them to therapy. Hilarious, right? You'll be surprised with this one... Watch Sam's Netflix special, "Same Time Tomorrow", streaming now and see Sam on his "Class Act Tour". Go to SamMorril.com for tour dates and tickets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bassem Youssef approaches his comedy with the precision of a heart surgeon - a profession he knows all too well, having left it behind in pursuit of comedy. In either case, he lives in constant fear of messing up... at this point, laughter better be the best damn medicine. While selling out shows across the world in both English and Arabic, Bassem joins Dan in Miami for an honest exploration of his transformative odyssey. Bassem’s journey, from despising his life as a surgeon to creating the most-watched, groundbreaking talk show in the Middle East, ultimately led to fleeing his homeland with only hours warning… all because of jokes he told about the Egyptian government. What happens when being called “the Jon Stewart of the Middle East” and a recent viral appearance with Piers Morgan leads to people pushing you to be a political activist? But between the heavy issues of politics and exile, Bassem truly just wants to make people laugh. Dan and Bassem bond over their shared family dynamics and search for happiness after finding unexpected success. For tickets and tour dates to see Bassem Yousef, go to BASSEMYOUSSEF.XYZ and follow him on Instagram @Bassem Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Alex Rodriguez has lived the majority of his life under the intense pressure of the public eye - reaching prolific highs and startling lows, leading to his guarded reputation… until now. There’s a deep history for Dan and A-Rod to explore in this unforgettable episode of South Beach Sessions. Alex opens up to Dan about his life-changing experience in intensive therapy, how he’s addressed his shortcomings as a father, and finally learning how to truly move forward from past mistakes. From the truth about his relationship with Derek Jeter to rumors about mythical creatures, A-Rod leaves no stone unturned. Gum disease affects over 65 million Americans, even baseball legends. When Alex Rodriguez learned that gum disease disproportionately affects people of color, he partnered with OraPharma and Arestin to help bring awareness to the issue. Visit arestin.com for more information about how to protect yourself from gum disease. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Rachel Nichols has earned her flowers. Rachel and Dan have known each other for nearly 30 years but have never had the space for an unapologetic deep dive like this. Together they explore the price of their ambition and refusal to back down from the industry BS and the vicious double standards Rachel has had to face in pursuit of a career… and motherhood. This conversation isn't just about breaking down barriers in journalism; it's a raw exploration of life beyond the headlines, to find balance, purpose, and a deeper understanding of themselves. The new season of "Headliners with Rachel Nichols" is now streaming on Paramount Plus and listen and subscribe to the podcast, "Bully Ball with Rachel Nichols & DeMarcus Cousins", presented by DraftKings. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"I don't know if God brung me here to get a lot off my chest..." Nicky Jam, a beloved Latin icon recognized around the world as a Reggaeton pioneer, shares with Dan the harsh truth about the isolating nature of fame, his battle through addiction, and the chaotic struggle for authentic connections in the spotlight. In what Nicky describes as “the best interview I’ve ever done”, Dan guides him through the demons he had to confront in his family dynamics and artistry in the quest for inner peace and happiness beyond the superficial trappings of success. This is where vulnerability and authenticity collide to remind all of us that we’re not alone. The holidays can be a challenging time for all of us. If you or a loved one are struggling with loss, addiction, depression, or need help maintaining good mental health, here are some resources to help: The National Institute of Mental Health at nimh.nih.gov/health/find-help The National Alliance on Mental Health at nami.org TheTrevorProject.org The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration at samhsa.gov/behavioral-health-equity/hispanic-latino The American Foundation for Suicide Prevention at afsp.org Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This is a rare glimpse into the soul of a man who's not afraid to tackle any situation - a front-row seat to the unfiltered wisdom of Marcellus Wiley. Dan and Marcellus toss aside the small talk and dive straight into the sacrifices necessary for chasing dreams, battling doubts, complacency, and the pivotal moments that drive them forward. Marcellus also lays bare his regrets on his fatherhood, unpacking the heavy baggage of shame around his insecurities, and reflects on how he and Max Kellerman navigated the uncharted waters of on-air vulnerability and developed a brotherhood that stands the test of time. Marcellus then confronts a subject he actively avoids - the unforgiving weight of grief and the human struggle to reconcile professional demands with the personal challenges of mourning those we love the most. Watch Marcellus Wiley’s “Never Shut Up” weekdays on Brinx.TV and listen to “More To It with Marcellus Wiley” wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Joy Taylor is a beacon of strength. In this emotionally charged and moving heart-to-heart, Joy shares the moments that tested her spirit and the lessons that propelled her to rise above adversity and find purpose in the face of challenges. Together, with candor and vulnerability, they uncover the profound connections that bind them as Joy reveals to Dan the pivotal role that Dan's brother, David "Lebo" Le Batard, played in shaping her path. Through tears and laughter, this is a powerful testament that even in our darkest moments, there is light and love in the cosmos that remain with us forever. Join The Joy Taylor Foundation in their mission to serve the homeless, survivors of domestic violence and promote education and youth empowerment in the communities of Los Angeles, Miami, Pittsburgh and NYC.​ To show your support or make a contribution, visit www.joytaylorfoundation.com Watch SPEAK with Joy Taylor on FS1, weekdays at 4:30PM ET. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Success required a lot of sacrifices for Gabriel Iglesias and that's no joke. Gabriel "Fluffy" Iglesias may be one of the most beloved comedians in the world, but it's in Los Angeles, performing in front of sold-out crowds at Dodger Stadium where he feels most at home and equally on top of the world. Dan meets Gabriel in Los Angeles for a special conversation that goes well beyond what he's ever shared on stage or anywhere before. From discovering his love for comedy, learning to move past unhealthy relationships and loneliness, to experiencing uncontrollable tears of joy when making the most unbelievable dream a reality, there's a little bit of "Fluffy" in all of us. Watch GABRIEL IGLESIAS: STADIUM FLUFFY streaming now on Netflix and see Gabe live on his “DON’T WORRY, BE FLUFFY” tour. Go to FLUFFYGUY.COM for tour dates, tickets, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Some things are better left unsaid... yeah, no. It's been years since Katie Nolan and Dan worked together at ESPN and a lot has changed since then... in more ways than either of them ever shared with one another until now. Katie and Dan pull out all the stops in addressing the challenges they've faced since they last saw each other, the immense joy and growth they've found on the other side of pain, and clear the air on how things really went down during uncertain times. This is what friends are for. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

You think you know Kevin Hart, but you don't know him like this... It takes a lot to go from a household name to a name that sells out stadiums around the world, especially when the journey began as "a complete accident". Kevin reveals to Dan how he overcame crushing setbacks to reach unimaginable success, why the fear of failing never gets in his way, and how his unending ambition has led to ultimate learning lessons... especially when it comes to a footrace in the street with NFL running back Stevan Ridley. Use promo code "HART" when you sign-up for DraftKings. Bet $5 and get $200 instantly in bonus bets. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This isn't about politics. Days after the passing of Dan's brother, David "Lebo" Le Batard, Beto O'Rourke opens up about the recent loss of his younger sister, Erin, and seeking solace in their shared struggle to navigate through their grief. How do we say goodbye to those we love so deeply, that have shaped who we are and continue on through the pain to honor? The two also reflect on the startling fight for survival all around us, from migrants rights on the border to the relentless strength of parents and families of tragic gun violence. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Late night shows may come and go, but for Roy Wood Jr. the hustle-and-grind never stops. Roy visits Dan in Miami for a South Beach Sessions unlike any other, reflecting on how far he's come from his scary, early days as a comedian and why he wanted to be the next Stuart Scott at ESPN. Amidst strikes and layoffs in a shaky entertainment landscape, Roy also shares what The Daily Show was like under Trevor Noah, and what the future of late night will look like if he takes over next... Go to RoyWoodJr.com for tour dates, tickets, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Tommy Vietor may have left the White House, but imposter syndrome followed him to Hollywood... Dan welcomes the co-founder of Crooked Media for a conversation more powerful than politics. Tommy shares his realization that leaving politics was the best decision for his personal growth; how opening up about tragedy can bring strength and solace to others. Dan and Tommy also compare what they've learned from starting media companies with their friends... and everything they still haven't figured out. Listen and subscribe to POD SAVE THE WORLD, new episodes every Wednesday, and POD SAVE AMERICA, with new episodes Tuesdays and Thursdays, wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Personal. Thoughtful. Intimate. MIchael Wilbon brings a whole new meaning to "PTI" on South Beach Sessions. Raw, uncut, and as real as it gets - Dan says all the things he's always wanted to and in return, Wilbon shares moments from his life that he's never told anyone. Would love to tell you more but you'll just have to listen... you won't regret it. Watch Michael Wilbon & Tony Kornheiser on "Pardon the Interruption" weekdays on ESPN. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Mike Breen hits South Beach Sessions with a BANG. The voice of the NBA Finals for the past 18 seasons will be more than comfortable calling his 100th Finals game, but sitting down with Dan to talk openly about HIMSELF? That's history in itself too. Mike shares with Dan how he still feels like the shy kid who is simply a fan of the game, and the love he has for his broadcast brothers, Jeff Van Gundy & Mark Jackson, even when they won't say it back. Mike also talks about how from the devastating ashes of his family's home, deep gratitude rose. Watch the 2023 NBA Finals as the Denver Nuggets battle the Miami Heat LIVE on ABC. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

We don't deserve Ernie Johnson... A legend, a national treasure, and the glue that has made "Inside the NBA" on TNT the best show on television for nearly three decades, Ernie Johnson is the best of the best because he's done it all with love. Dan explores the secrets behind the magic of what Ernie does, the humbling wisdom learned from his son, Michael, and the unspoken sensitivities surrounding Shaq, Charles, and Kenny. Ernie also reveals being haunted for years by a rare moment when his ego unleashed the worst in him. Listen & subscribe to "The Steam Room with EJ and Chuck" wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Protect Mina Kimes at all costs. Dan and Mina don't hold back about the crazy, anxiety-filled playground that was "Highly Questionable", the ways they've learned to turn criticism into confidence over the years, and fighting off embarrassment, disappointment, and the downright stupid frustrations that still eat at them today. No one would dare sh*t on Mina or Dan after this... alright, maybe Dan. Watch Mina co-host "NFL Live" weekdays on ESPN and listen and subscribe to "The Mina Kimes Show featuring Lenny". Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

You truly shouldn't be allowed to listen to this... Get ready to have all of your preconceived notions and feelings towards David Samson tested. David has his relationship with Dan pushed to the limits as they chew over their complicated and controversial friendship, how they've helped each other to grow emotionally through pain, and why Dan has unknowingly hurt him these past few weeks as their personal and professional lives become more blurred. To steal the title of this year's Oscar winning movie, this conversation is "Everything, Everywhere All at Once". Listen and subscribe to "Nothing Personal with David Samson" wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Israel "Izzy" Gutierrez is an open book so he came ready to read Dan... Even after twenty years of friendship, there is a lot these two have never told each other until now. From how Izzy connected deeply with Dan before they ever met to the fear, frustration, and pride of being an openly gay man in sports media, and why Izzy feels so far away from Dan lately, when he's still a "local Miami kid" right around the corner. They also speak to the mutual love between Papi and Izzy (and might shock some "Highly Questionable" fans with a show secret) and the grief and remorse that will live with Izzy for all of his remaining years... even when he plans to be here for another 80 more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pablo Torre may be all smiles today, but he never imagined any of this. Enter Dan Le Batard. Pablo reflects on how a panic attack upended a life he thought he was destined to live, the pressures he put on himself as the child of accomplished Filipino immigrant parents, and why Dan's advice changed everything for him. They also admit their biggest moments of insecurity, where they feel the most confident, and Pablo also reveals to Dan why jealousy had a part in him joining Meadowlark Media. Go to www.Pablo.Show and listen and subscribe now to Pablo’s podcast, Pablo Torre Finds Out, wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Amin Elhassan never has a problem dishing out NBA hot takes or speaking his mind on any number of cultural topics, but getting him to communicate about his own emotions? That's another story... Amin opens up to Dan with a heavy heart about the ongoing conflicts in Sudan, grappling with feelings of shame, and tells Dan why all this time, he relates more to Papi than him. Amin and Dan also reflect on personal struggles they're working on, and how each have found ways to try to honor the sacrifices of their immigrant parents. Check your ego at the door with this one... Listen and subscribe to Amin's podcasts, ODDBALL with Amin Elhassan & Charlotte Wilder, and CINEPHOBE, wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Only Dan and Greg Cote's hilarious, heartfelt and storied friendship could lead to a conversation for the ages... this episode will forever lovingly be known as "Sob Beach Sessions". Greg and Dan share how they managed to avoid forging a fierce rivalry, reveal why Chris Cote's dismissal (*cough* firing) from ESPN was the truest test of loyalty, and listeners will be stunned to find out the never-before-heard decision regarding Stugotz. Even if you know their relationship, you could've never imagined getting to hear them like this... Listen and subscribe to "THE GREG COTE SHOW" wherever you get your podcasts and read Greg's latest column at MiamiHerald.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Heilemann, host and creator of Showtime’s "THE CIRCUS" joins South Beach Sessions to bring da motherf-ckin' ruckus. So bring it on! Dan and John discuss what is likely to come from the felony charges brought against Trump, why Trump's mugshot will only help his 2024 reelection campaign, and how the majority of Americans don't want to see another presidential election between Biden and Trump. John also reveals his feelings to his viral exchange with comedian Russell Brand on "Real Time with Bill Maher" and Dan asks him about the roles Maher, Brand, and Joe Rogan play against "woke culture". You can watch THE CIRCUS: Inside the Greatest Political Show on Earth, streaming on Showtime now, with new episodes Sundays, and listen to John’s podcast, HELL AND HIGH WATER, wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Leave it to Domonique Foxworth to be the one to lead Dan into the most vulnerable conversation he's ever had on air. Domonique joins Dan in a cathartic discussion about finding love late in life, breaking down masculinity, the struggles to find joy, unwrapping their identities from work, and what kind of legacy Dan hopes to leave behind. Thanks to Domonique, this is the Dan you've always wanted to know... New episodes of The Domonique Foxworth Show are available every Tuesday and Thursday, listen and subscribe wherever you get your podcasts. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

South Beach Sessions is back and whether you love him or hate him, you've never heard Stephen A. Smith like this before. Stephen shares with Dan how despite all the success, growing up in poverty will never leave him and the controversy that still haunts him today. Dan pushes Stephen to address his relationship with the black community, how he handles the haters and imitators flooding the landscape, if he's getting bored with First Take, and where things stand with him, Skip Bayless and Max Kellerman. Stephen also tells Dan how his words of advice and a near-death bout with Covid, changed his life forever. Watch Stephen A. daily on ESPN’s First Take and listen to his weekly podcast, Know Mercy with Stephen A. Smith. His bestseller, Straight Shooter: A Memoir of Second Chances and First Takes, is available now wherever you get your books and audiobooks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Amaechi joins Dan for a conversation on his early life and journey into basketball. The two discuss work ethic, supportive friends and mentors, competitive nature, and more as John details what made him motivated to become a NBA player and the distance he has from that career choice. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dan speaks with former mixed martial artist, wrestler, and olympian Ben Askren about his journey through the fight game and the life it's created for him. Askren touches on his youth in wrestling, the mentality it takes to be a world-renowned fighter, why consistency is key, and the importance of not tying ego to outcome before detailing his new book, "Funky: My Defiant Path Through the Wild World of Combat Sports." Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Before the concussions started, Sam Shields was one of the fastest cover cornerbacks in football. He spent nearly a decade in the NFL. He wishes he hadn’t. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dan talks to The Nation's Dave Zirin about his new documentary Behind the Shield: The Power & Politics of the NFL. They discuss the NFL's firm grip on American culture, how they grew into that position in the first place, the things that most gross him out about the league, and Daniel Snyder's failed ownership of the Washington franchise. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Pulitzer Prize winning journalist and author Buzz Bissinger joins Dan for an in-depth conversation on his greatest work, the pressure of living up to Friday Night Lights, the state of journalism, his personal triumphs and pitfalls, addiction, and more. Plus, Buzz goes through some of the greatest lessons he learned while writing his various pieces. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

On a special episode of South Beach Sessions, Edgerrin James joins Dan to discuss his improbable journey from Immokalee, Florida to reaching a Hall of Fame level in football, business, and parenting. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Amaechi joins Dan as our special "UK correspondent" to explain the reaction overseas after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. John and Dan then dive into a number of topics including the state of leadership worldwide, political division, athletes as role models, company culture, how "'both sides' is bollocks", and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dan sits down with Heather McGhee, host of the podcast The Sum of Us and author of a book of the same title. McGhee travelled the country to find out in just how many ways racism shaped American life and the American economy. We dig into what she found. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

"There’s winning Super Bowls, there’s making money…that’s great, but is that what you’re really here for?" Tony and Lauren Dungy join Dan for a conversation on how family, faith, and football helped guide their growth as both parents and people. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dan speaks with journalist, podcaster, and screenwriter David Sirota about the corruption found across the American political system and why it has led to the decay of our most crucial institutions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Ronan Farrow joins Dan on this episode of South Beach Sessions to discuss his love of journalism and its importance in society, how his upbringing led him to storytelling and empathy, and where his passions may take him next. Plus, Ronan dives into his new HBO Documentary "Endangered" and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dan is joined by NASA climate scientist, author, and activist Peter Kalmus for a special "South Beach Sessions" focused on climate change. Dan and Peter dive into the Supreme Court's recent "anti-science" decision, the rate at which Earth is deteriorating, real life solutions for climate change, and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dan talks with Ethan Strauss, who left The Athletic to start his own Substack after he stopped caring about traditional sports writing. They talk about the risk of making that decision, trying to reveal the innards of the transactional sports media, and how Mark Cuban is bit of a fraud. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jason Kander – Army veteran and former Missouri Secretary of State – sits down with Dan to discuss his battle with post-traumatic stress disorder. Jason describes what "earning PTSD" and "necessary brainwashing" means, the ways in which he ran from himself, why "trauma is trauma," what gives him hope about America, and much more. Plus, he details his new book "Invisible Storm" and the cause behind it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

“Food tastes better when you share it.” Comedian, Actor, and Writer Rob Delaney joins the show for an in-depth conversation on his remarkable journey that led him to comedy, sobriety, kindness, and compassion. Rob discusses details on projects past and present, how being nice can lead to success, why he chose to write his upcoming book after his son Henry’s passing, and shares many more life lessons. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Dan sits down with The Ringer's Van Lathan to chronicle his journey from growing up in Baton Rouge, to entering Hollywood and TMZ, winning an Oscar for the short film Two Distant Strangers, and his struggles with weight gain in his new book Fat, Crazy, and Tired. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Malcolm Gladwell joins Dan for a trip through his greatest curiosities around sports and social change in America including his new podcast "Legacy of Speed" about the 1968 Olympic protest. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

You’ve never heard the wonders of the brain described this way: Myron Rolle, who went from football at Florida State to Rhodes Scholar at Oxford and now neurosurgery at Harvard, on how to steady your hands enough to hold something as sacred as human life. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jay Leno joins Dan for an in-depth look at his storied career, the happiest times of his professional life, the current state of comedy, his reboot of 'You Bet Your Life' game show, and much more. @youbetyourlife This week Le Batard & Friends is raising money for ALS research in conjunction with several charities. As part of our efforts, we'll be at the Marlins-Giants game Thursday for Lou Gehrig Day and you can join us. To donate or to buy tickets for the game, go to worldofsuey.com/loulapalooza Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

New York Times writer and bestselling author Frank Bruni joins Dan for a conversation on his new book, The Beauty of Dusk: On Vision Lost and Found, and how waking up one morning with blurred vision sent him down a path to see life more clearly than ever before. Dan and Frank discuss cynicism, life’s illuminating moments, how to consume media in a “post-truth era,” and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Bill Lawrence, the creator of Scrubs and Ted Lasso, joins Dan for a discussion on the impact of mentors, making people laugh with sweetness vs. snark, the evolution of the TV writer's room, and much more as the duo dives into Lawrence's career path. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

David Simon, creator of one of the best TV shows ever made, on how to use art to fight. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Skipper and David Samson join Dan to discuss some of the biggest stories across Sports Business & Media including Apple TV and the NFL Sunday Ticket, the Washington Commanders investigation, MLB's resistance to change, the NBA and China, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Michael Lewis, author of “Moneyball,” “The Big Short,” and countless other bestsellers, joins Dan to discuss his joyful writing process, the long-lasting impact of “Moneyball,” his ability to procure secrets from subjects, his newest book “The Premonition: A Pandemic Story,” and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Elie Mystal, The Nation’s justice correspondent and one of America’s most prominent voices at the intersection of journalism and politics, argues on behalf of tearing up the Constitution... and then we talk some sports Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices