Hard Count with Geoff Baker

Apr 26 2017 26

Hard Count with Geoff Baker Podcast artwork

Seattle Times investigative and enterprise reporter Geoff Baker takes a closer look at the business behind sports. He'll discuss money and more during in-depth conversations with unique figures from around the sports world.

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Ep. 20: A deeper look at why ESPN just slashed 100 on-air personalities and writers from its roster

Apr 26 2017 31 mins

This week's episode looks at ESPN's decision to slash some of its bigger on-air names, including Jay Crawford, Ed Werder, Jayson Stark and Trent Dilfer. Sports valuation consultant Michael Rapkoch comes on to talk about the changing economics behind TV sports and why teams and leagues must pay close attention to what ESPN just did.

Ep. 19: Comparing the city of Seattle's arena plans

Apr 18 2017 64 mins

This week, in an episode devoted entirely to Seattle's pursuit of an arena solution, Geoff reviews the proposals by the Oak View Group and Seattle Partners to renovate KeyArena and compares them to the Sodo District project pitched by entrepreneur Chris Hansen.

Ep. 18: MLB bumps NFL out among major U.S. sports for best fan loyalty

Apr 05 2017 46 mins

Brand Keys president Robert Passikoff discusses his New York firm's 25th annual Sports Fan Loyalty Index survey, showing MLB has bounced NFL out of top spot. Plus, more on Mariners fan loyalty and a chat with Sounders goalkeeper Stefan Frei abput the business of winning championships