Mike Francesa's Podcast Success: Timing, Tech, and Talent

Legendary sports broadcaster Mike Francesa has seen a resurgence in his podcasting career, thanks to a perfect storm of factors. The New York sports scene has been a whirlwind, with the Mets making a shocking run to the NLCS and the Yankees reaching the World Series, while the Giants and Jets struggled mightily. Francesa's podcast, now part of the BetRivers network, has benefited from this rollercoaster ride. Francesa, 70, has always been known for his ability to talk off the cuff for extended periods. But it's his new approach to posting content that's really changed the game. Instead of waiting until the next day, he now goes live on YouTube right after games and major sports news. This quick reaction time has helped him stay on top of the conversation. The YouTube channel was always part of the plan, but the network needed time to grow. Now, Francesa's son, Harrison, who works at Barstool Sports, helps coordinate special appearances, like the one during Game 5 of the World Series. Francesa's staying power also comes from his young listeners, who grew up hearing "Mike and the Mad Dog" in their dad's car. He's been amazed by the number of young fans who approach him, showing that his influence spans generations. As for his broadcasting style, Francesa doesn't use notes or scripts. He simply watches the games, organizes his thoughts, and speaks from the heart. This natural talent has kept him relevant in the ever-changing world of sports media.