An Honest Conversation About ESPN, Rachel Nichols & Maria Taylor | Jemele Hill, Amin Elhassan

Jemele Hill joins Dan Le Batard, Stugotz and Amin Elhassan to discuss Rachel Nichols' comments about Maria Taylor, NBA Countdown and the larger role ESPN plays in all of this.
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[@Zeus0886]

Kenny Smith: “why dont you go work for ESPN?” Charles Barkley: “nah they not going to work me like a dog and not pay me. They going have me on ESPN 1, 2, 3, News and Deportes. Im going to be on Deportes saying “Muy Bien Gracias”. 😂😂

[@emment.2702]

Barkley knows 😂😂 They got SAS working like a dog

[@JDH727]

@@emment.2702 making SAS earn his money since he’s the highest paid on air personality at espn

[@micahbinns2740]

@@JDH727 yeah charles will make his 2-4 mil and work part-time and SAS didn't make NBA money so the brotha is taking advantage of all opportunities lol

[@blqest125]

kenny smith is also the same guy who said black people cant be racist on live tv in defense of montrez harrell's racist words against luca doncic.

[@votdfak]

"work me like a dog and come up with that puny check" LOL

[@johnnypolo1983]

ESPN is like MTV. Something that was cool in the 90's, but is a total joke today.

[@ChefBoydrdee]

Wow totally correct wow

[@biggary9602]

Except they still run sports.

[@charlescarter1859]

@@biggary9602 True !

[@charlescarter1859]

Exactly!

[@OGGOAT23]

Mtv in the 90s was way better than Espn at it's peak whenever that was

[@jkhoudini]

Tbh if we talking about most deserving, EJ and the TNT crew should get the finals. They’re head and shoulders better than anything espn put together. But in the end it’s all “territory” & money.

[@Fernandezfox05]

That would work but ABC /ESPN has the TV rights.. thats the only reason why they can't do that

[@eltennis]

@@Fernandezfox05 except nothing beats Mike Breen in the finals. Baaaanggggg

[@Fernandezfox05]

@@eltennis what🤔

[@cmreviews213]

Imagine TNT crew Pre and Post game with Breen, JVG, Mark Jack commentating... A1 show

[@eltennis]

@@cmreviews213 yeah especially with Marv Albert retiring. I don't mind Kevin Harlan but it's nothing like Breen, JVG, and Mark Jackson

[@joenicedj]

"Transparency is something you can demand when shame belongs to others." Dan nailed that.

[@piteusx8440]

@@davidgonzalezgarzaNah ... Cowherd's a racist prick. Dan has far more nuanced. He's given strong loud independent women a voice. That includes Jamele, Fagan, Spain, and Kimes. Dan walks the talk.

[@beezum]

@@piteusx8440 Not really, you're just a Dan stan and not a Cowherd stan. That's why one is "racist" and one "walks the talk".

[@AlphaDwg]

this is most people tbh

[@mosheparanov]

@@davidgonzalezgarza Except Dan started his own company which is not at all like signing with FS1, and all the brunettes were already under contract with ESPN still

[@mosheparanov]

@@davidgonzalezgarza OK changing-subject guy - but "mostly" seems to be your vague assumption (based on all that insider knowledge you personally have of the inner workings of ESPN) that doesn't include "all" ("all" the issues, but "mostly" under -- why not "most" of the issues "all" under?) and his 5 years as president ended 4 years ago... so "mostly" is most likely your own personal hyperbole. Great work -- as always. These things we are talking about, although products of systemic issues, happened last year, and it's probably all Norby's fault. Also, it's well documented (Meadowlark is like a living document) that Skip's attempt to change the culture at ESPN didn't exactly go smoothly because of the same reactionary culture these guys and Rachel were/are talking about, I'm guessing it would have something to do with the myriad management structure that happens to be more than one guy. Not that I need to defend anyone - I don't know the guy, and neither do you. So, neither one of us knows what we're talking about, and only one of us pretending to.

[@KwamtumPshX]

I love how Dan doesn't try to hijack the conversation, but just lets the people who know the most about a subject speak their minds.

[@stickman1742]

That's because he doesn't want to be the next fired. He knows it's best to not say a damn thing.

[@bigwilly43729]

@@stickman1742 you know Dan doesn’t work at ESPN anymore, right?

[@chess25]

@@Stewie-A-Simpson you are absolutely right…..Dan got the hell outta there and had his own sports content company

[@newrecruit100]

Yep. He’s one of the very very very few out there who openly admits when he’s not informed.

[@KwamtumPshX]

@@newrecruit100 I think on this topic he's like, "I'm not black, and I'm not a woman, so I'm just gonna sit this one out."

[@breakingreactions942]

This is why Dan is one of the best in the biz. He lets his guests talk.

[@mike-r575]

Amin, you are so naive! Human Resources departments do not work for the employees. HR works the organization, the business. HR at ESPN does not work for the benefit of or to protect Rachel Nichols, Maria Taylor, or Kayla Johnson (a digital video producer at ESPN who was disciplined after telling HR that she had seen the video - as reported by the New York Times). HR at ESPN works for (and to protect) ESPN and Disney. Consequently, one has to always be very careful what (s)he divulges to HR.

[@omara1854]

Exactly, HR is only there to protect the company. When they tell you that people are a company’s greatest asset they’re full of shit

[@businessk7236]

Facts!!

[@bigballerju07]

Thank you. Someone who I can tell has a job and knows what there talking about. HR does have a responsiblilty by law not to allow racism and discrimination against race, age, and more. But your right about everything else.

[@michaelvincent7115]

You're right...but Amin is actually right. HR is "supposed" to be an advocate for the employees to the company but it doesn't work that way bc corporate management will never respect that concept. If an HR person brings conflict where the corporate management is wrong (as most management is bc they make unfounded decisions), they get fired. So de facto they work for corporate but de jure they should work for the employees

[@jerryspence3969]

MANAGEMENT TAKES CARE OF MANAGEMENT

[@Rootz2000]

Best thing that ever happened to Dan was getting the fuck away from ESPN. I can't wait to see this channel in a few years, it's gonna be crazy.

[@SMJay357]

Yeah gotta appreciate the times today so many ways to do it on your own now it's amazing

[@michaelvincent7115]

It's either gonna be amazing or be dead...I can't imagine much middle road

[@Mister-Dima20.03]

And trashed them on the way out. I love Dan!

[@CmdrElect]

His channel is going to be an echo chamber filled to the brim of fart huffing self proclaimed intellectuals.

[@SMJay357]

@@CmdrElect hey everybody has sum kinda audience just imagine what ESPN's is mostly filled with these days lol I reckon your on the straight narrow and not a fan of neither ?

[@realmamaknows]

This was so refreshing compared to reading Twitter reactions

[@Daniel_AurA]

rAcIsM

[@devenlawrence2115]

Fact

[@marx41mans]

Damn...you still subject yourself to twitter and other social media reactions? -that crap will rot your brain and make you loose faith in HUMANITY!

[@realmamaknows]

@@marx41mans I still use it as a pulse check. Like, if Clay Travis or one of the Fox talking heads presents a view, I automatically become skeptical of said view and have to research more to understand why they're wrong.

[@RentonThurston1010]

This the conversation ESPN didnt want to happen because wait until this episode pick up steam

[@C-Note-to6vk]

@@salvatoreventura7461 Its more interesting to hear people who work for or have worked for ESPN talk about it. Kwame need to go after his boy Jason Whitlock for what he said on the matter. But he wont do that.

[@daveclark8337]

They all got dumped, so of course they're bitter. I don't think these 3 (or certainly 2) are people Maria should be taking advice from if she wants a successful career as a sports personality.

[@markislivingdeliberately]

I think 98% of people would say “who’s Maria Taylor and Rachel Nichols..?”

[@Dats_dope]

Put tnt crew for the finals more enjoyable

[@mikejames3824]

Yes I know Ernie ain’t raciest

[@roscoepcoltrane1985]

Finally. Someone got the balls to say it. I wish that the NBA would let Turner Sports broadcast the NBA Finals but Turner Sports isn't big enough for the NBA let them broadcast their NBA Finals games.

[@jkranites]

@@mikejames3824 well neither is she if you listened to the entire tape

[@bobduffy7744]

@@roscoepcoltrane1985 it’ll happen in time.

[@KaiserReb]

@@jkranites 2021 attention spans don’t listen or read the article just headlines

[@Tramaine0000]

I’m truly happy Jemele Hill can look back and sincerely laugh at the bs she went through with ESPN. Healing and growth 🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@gblair7622]

@why man, why? she misses those checks. Don't get it twisted.

[@gblair7622]

@why man, why? I meant to reply to sam....podcasts don't pay as well. We see thru her

[@Tramaine0000]

@why man, why? I said what I said and it wasn’t up for a debate. But y’all can continue to talk amongst yourselves. It’s all ok to have different opinions ☺️

[@Fantasy23Legend]

@@Tramaine0000 Yeah she is healing and growing 😂

[@johnbrowne3950]

@@Fantasy23Legend She's the worst.

[@sethwhite4090]

I have been searching for an honest discussion of this issue for days. Thank you Dan.

[@mornediablo7819]

Not with Amin there

[@bigwilly43729]

@@jaahnnn None of them got fired? They all left on their own. Dan just did shows with ESPN talent, something they took away from them initially. Where is the bias?

[@KaiserReb]

@@jaahnnn none of them where fired

[@gernblanston2652]

@@jaahnnn no, they weren't. The only person on this entire show (including Jemele and Amin) that was fired was Chris Cote. Everybody else either quit or requested and negotiated their release.

[@jaahnnn]

If you leave your old job on bad terms of course you are gonna talk bad about them

[@seanswinton6242]

Finally a great, open, and honest conversation about what happens at ESPN from those who worked there. Thanks for giving a clarifying perspective on the Rachel Nichols/Maria Taylor situation and the culture at that network. Great to see these former ESPN hosts tell the real truth.

[@jimodonnell5099]

ex ESPN employees - who have an ax to grind!

[@LS-pv4dh]

@@jimodonnell5099 why alot of thier former employees, of different colors all seem to have an axe grind? Usually when there is smoke theres a fire. Cannot say always. But id say most times there's probably a fire. Idk. Stay tuned i guess

[@j2times2006]

@@jimodonnell5099 two friends of mine one black one latino worked doing audio and producing respectively. They both echoed the same sentiments said here. Undercurrent of racisim and right wing ideology in the upper offices while putting on the mask of diversity for the public. Equal treatment was non existent for punishments for both blacks and whites, (nepotism) and they both strongly suspected that the old sleep with the bosses tradition was still going on in in some circles. Both left and have never been happier.

[@jimodonnell5099]

@@j2times2006 so Jemele Hill & Dan Lebataard do NOT have an ax to grind? - they had nothing to say till they were shown the door! - ex ESPN employees who have an ax to grind. - maybe hold a job for a while and see how people who get shown the door are always the victims! which is left-wing ideology! - poor babies!

[@bluefun22]

The one thing this conversation does is highlight just how important context is, and I thank all the participants for it. Also it makes me incredibly happy that my privacy is my own and if my Google home ever decides to share my conversations out in the world…..I’m screwed lol but really

[@k.h.a.l.i.l.]

@@kevinporter861 no one would care that you don't watch if you stop announcing it trying to get ppl to care that you don't watch 🤷🏽‍♂️

[@kevinporter861]

@@k.h.a.l.i.l. ya man.

[@adgee5401]

@@kevinporter861 As you can see by what just happened, the liberal media behind closed doors ends up being nothing more than a typical devil.

[@swpdisciple]

@@adgee5401 I don’t quite understand what you’re saying. Elaborate please…

[@matthewgabbard6415]

OMG that should be a screenplay. Blackmailer hacks people’s Alexa or Google and uses embarrassing stuff to leverage them. Black Mirror style

[@19broncos97]

Quit hating on Amin. None of you are giving up your career (especially when it’s in your contract) without a fight. He actually knows her personally. This is ESPN’s fault, not Rachel’s. Like Dan said. You’re focusing on the wrong thing.

[@ravisubra]

This, ESPN have gotten a massive pass in the most part and if Nichols goes she will be the sacrificial lamb and they will look all nice and woke

[@isiah675]

Multiple things can be true at the same time. ESPN can be the fuck ups we know them to be, and Rachel does not need to refer to her co-workers in such a manner.

[@19broncos97]

@@isiah675 I fully agree. I’m guessing she’s reached out personally and apologized for it. Nobody else but Maria is owed one.

[@juliawhitehall]

@@ravisubra That's exactly it and it's especially fishy when espn leaked that Maria wants more money than they think she is worth.

[@kadimakankwenda5636]

People would rather blame the employee/contract than the company for a sus work environment.

[@jamilbelle]

This was excellent 💯

[@p.wildtv]

ESPN is not the same lol. I miss the jemele skits with my guy Micheal. That step brothers skit is gold

[@fredleeland2464]

That was corny af It's sports entertainment news, we don't care about their opinions or attempts of humor Stuff like that is why ESPN is dumb

[@MrsButtersworth82]

Damn. I didn’t know Amin didn’t work at ESPN any more.

[@bobduffy7744]

He’s so much better now tho.. u should hear the Spotify podcast when he rejoined San recently and left espn.

[@bobduffy7744]

Dan

[@MrsButtersworth82]

@@bobduffy7744 Definitely going to check it out. Thanks for the info.

[@bobduffy7744]

@@MrsButtersworth82 lol Mr & Mrs. your welcome ! It was one I’ll never forget. Explained his whole life story. Made me become a fan of his after that more then I already was.

[@coinz1er35]

I thought I was just missing him on whatever show he was on it's a lot of ppl gone

[@Friedbologna86]

After seeing all this go down in the last couple months, I just have two questions, “Stephen A Smith, what the HELL were you doing at them colleges, and what the HELL were you doing at them high schools BOI?

[@hotdogsarejustdogsinheat5263]

😂😂😂😂😂

[@youngphenom84]

Lmfaooooo

[@yakimisrael5758]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@DrPhill96]

At “them”? Sounds like you are the one that needs to be at high school and college.

[@blist14ant]

@@DrPhill96 you can write like that with quotation marks dialog.

[@AR-io8fv]

This interview and the one with Matt Sullivan have been epic. Think this is your true genius medium Dan. This was just top notch human conversation.

[@williamphillips3035]

It's a lot of tea sippin' in this video 🍵

[@thinkinstupidyoutube1181]

It’s funny how nobody brings up them laughing about the me too movement or Black Lives Matter.

[@buFFlosouljah1]

"Allies"

[@ghostgeorgevi6909]

Exactly...that's what messed me up...lebron guy said between black lives matter and me too he is spent and they laughed...wtf

[@cwamnehoward5001]

Seriously and that wasn't no awkward life, that was a yes me too! laugh. People can deflect all they want to, but truth is Rachel obviously has bias. She definitely showed it with D Rose. And neither of them mentioned the fact that they both were brought in after Beadle was dropped in 2019; they simply changed her from host to sideline reporter. And the pregame has Jalen and Jay already, so her saying diversity was a big reach.

[@leonardorodriguez9919]

Cause both movements are jokes and just money grabs for the people at the top running the organizations. Total jokes fima has helped more blacks than the blm movement and if people don't see that you are blind. An just a sheep to the so called woke movement that alienates its own members if they have their own individual thoughts.

[@KaiserReb]

And?

[@therealmmason]

Love the “real talk” in this conversation. We need more more forums like this that keep it real.

[@piteusx8440]

I don't like Jamele's sports hot takes, but I do listen to her opinions when it comes to race and women's role in sports media. Her experiences give me a better understanding. That said, I loved that she called out Tom Izzo and her alma mater for the sexual assault scandal. It gave her more credibility in my eyes.

[@ashburnconnecttv7860]

BOTTOM LINE: Ms. Taylor IS OVER QUALIFIED for the JOB! Nicholas doesn't stand a chance, because the job need someone with Ms, Taylor's skillset. "Maria attended UGA, where she played collegiate volleyball and basketball. She was named to the All-SEC volleyball team three times and was also a member of the USA A2 National Volleyball team. She graduated from Georgia in 2009 with a degree in broadcast news." Ms. Taylor = 100 vs Nicholas = 0 (ZERO). LMFAO

[@CmdrElect]

More like "Real" talk.

[@boblester8641]

How many more qualified black men loose these jobs to women

[@1990758]

Why didn't any of these people say anything while they were working for ESPN

[@JoeRogansGutBiome]

Damn this was eye opening. I have always wanted to know the behind the scenes at espn. This needs to be a netflix ahow

[@virajpatel3865]

If that happen Netflix will probably get sued by ESPN.

[@1990758]

I could have told you that if you would ask me I don't need former employees to tell me. Things are not what they appear to be on television. These people never speak out while they're working for our organization it's an organization it's always after they get let go or fired

[@kennethlandrum4528]

Dan is a great mediator.

[@mo36r33n]

Finally some voices of reason with actual insight on the inner workings of ESPN

[@Mdautkreix]

*insight

[@gersondacunha4494]

I don’t know, they’re saying that they should discuss white supremacy on espn when that is exactly the problem

[@mo36r33n]

Look I may not agree with everything that was said all I'm saying that it was refreshing to see ppl have a nuanced conversation instead of someone just giving a hot take going off on Rachael Nichols or trying to blame it on "woke" culture

[@bobbyjoefatso]

The fact that these 3 former epsn workers are speaking up about the company is telling. Even the casual ESPN fan knows these 3 faces and the fact their speaking up about the company shows how off ESPN really is. Some shady shit from the company

[@jasonlyrics5958]

Honestly they all deserve what they are getting . Beacause everything was all good to all these people until it happens to them. that go along get along attitude fratenity bullshit is NAFERIOUS and now yall all know what it is like to be a regular joe

[@BloodySoup74]

@@jasonlyrics5958 Well said!

[@blqest125]

@@jasonlyrics5958 , none of those people are regular joes. they all work in media. you think jemele hill is a regular joe?

[@mickpratt8327]

All 3 of these jokers were sjw preachers while they were there. They know the game. There is a clear reason this illegal recording was leaked now. If you think that reason had nothing to do with Maria's contract negotiation then you're willfully ignorant.

[@daveclark8337]

I like Dan Le BaTard in small doses. His version of Highly Questionable was fun. The other two, I'm glad they're off ESPN. All of them are going to have biased opinions because they were All fired.

[@spicysauce11]

Great to see all these ex-ESPN employees, black and white, tell us the truth about the greasy operation over at that network.

[@j2times2006]

Always grimey. Knew a producer there who was black and he got the same vibe working there. Hes way happier as an IT guy now than working for that company

[@BTLiii]

This is espn's fault in putting those two women in that position. But if the job was promised to you and gets taken away all of a sudden, even if you are qualified enough for the job, then it's a problem.

[@DIVISIONINCISION]

I believe Rachel said it was written in to her contract to be the host for the Finals. If that's the case, she has grounds to sue.

[@BTLiii]

@UFO'S ARE REAL!!! But you cant say rachel dont deserve her job. She worked her ass off as well. And it was promised to her in the first place, so why take it back now?

[@lordbeerus6182]

@UFO'S ARE REAL!!! Ma nigga please

[@migattenokobe2562]

@UFO'S ARE REAL!!! Maria is good at hosting in general but does lack on nba knowledge. She doesn’t add much in that area. Rachel has put in her time nba wise even though she can be annoying.

[@misterwallace3479]

@UFO'S ARE REAL!!! Do you know how many people have played professional sports and suck at commentating on that sport?

[@theonlykog]

Do anyone remember the line from the Temptations movie where David Ruffin says "pretty soon there going to be more ex-Temps than Temps..." That's how I felt watching this.

[@princeaalexander1150]

That's beautiful quote and timing for using it👏🏾👏🏾

[@kareemenya]

Anyone else laugh at the irony of Stephen A Smith? He calls out black players for not pushing for black coaches, yet almost every boss he has is white and his loud mouth is sealed.

[@bernardhawk3258]

Great observation.

[@mrc302]

👍👍👏👏

[@kevinmassoma3310]

Do you know of many black boss in Steven A Smith field of work❓ Fox news ,TNT etc... Are all white so the fuck you're talking about

[@lacenikks708]

Facts

[@kareemenya]

@@kevinmassoma3310 I believe we are saying the same thing. That is my exact point.

[@arnoldmayii3563]

To me, Rachel didn’t say anything wrong. She was just defending her job.

[@jflack6]

Same. She actually spoke more about espns cruddy history.

[@thomascarlton82]

Rachel was right in what she said but the problem lies in the hypocrisy. The whole problem is that she says she supports affirmative action but doesnt want it when it affects her. Affirmative action is racist and is solving 1 problem by causing the same problem lol

[@thelastquincy1457]

@@thomascarlton82 wtf are u talking about why in the world would a person want someone else to take there job and ur saying they should be ok with it because they support affirmative action. That doesn't make any sense what ur talking about i hope no company trys to F u over because of there crappy past because u seem like u would just let them screw u.

[@alejomerced21]

Former ESPN intervention sesh

[@jonjhon8491]

All of them are salty AF 😂😂😂

[@marcusreed5862]

@@jonjhon8491 that's what I was thinking 😂😂

[@Easyrawlins]

Lmao

[@andreabeady1583]

They tell the truth…

[@InfamousCuba]

100% real talk.

[@eb2957]

I would pay money to see a conversation between Clay Travis and Dan.

[@RadioAaron]

I wouldn’t pay a solitary cent for anything remotely associated with Clay Travis.

[@cubby831]

@@RadioAaron exactly. We should only listen to people we agree with…

[@fredhall6525]

Dan never had to debate a conservative on ESPN.

[@mibrito4]

Hell yea! Clay has invited her to discuss, but folks like Jamele would never accept that invite. Clay believes in meritocracy and Jamele believes in reducing people to their immutable traits like race and gender. It would be an interesting convo

[@mekam5537]

Who’s Clay Travis?

[@AllenInRealLife]

Damn this was fantastic. Thank y'all so much for having this conversation.

[@ogbc100]

They need to cut Highly Questionable if the original cast ain’t there!!

[@blqest125]

bill simmons created 30 for 30. they fired him for trashing roger goodell. most of these shows were made by off air talent hence why they are still being shown despite the people who was starring on the show in the beginning no longer being there.

[@wrestlingcommunity]

Haven’t watched ESPN in 3 years. Can’t imagine what HQ is like without them

[@VyPrezWolfpackMusic]

@@wrestlingcommunity Bomani Jones still holds it down, but it has turned into a half hour of sports writers trying to crack jokes about the day’s sports headlines. It’s somehow still better than Around the Horn.

[@1990758]

There's only two good shows on ESPN lineup around the horn and pardon the interruption

[@ogbc100]

@@1990758 I’m not an around the horn guy at all lol Tony is way too “douchey” for be. To each his own though

[@michaelpuente3352]

This is a total indictment of ESPN not Rachel Nichols

[@valthomas9786]

How so?

[@michaelpuente3352]

Are u following the story at all? Did u even read the actual quote from Nichols? ESPN was contractually obligated to give her the role and because they were being criticized for not being diverse enough on top they took that away from her and gave it to Maria Taylor(and no I’m not saying that Maria Taylor is not qualified for the job)

[@valthomas9786]

@@michaelpuente3352 chill bro. I was only asking you how you came to that conclusion. I wasn’t challenging you.

[@cubby831]

@@valthomas9786 because… Espn handled this poorly… not necessarily the women involved.

[@cubby831]

@@EARiot it works both ways though. You have a country that now believes black people should be given preferential treatment in schools, jobs, etc… so of course that opens the door for questions, whether it be true or untrue.

[@andreanarine8179]

100% Jamele Hill; ESPN is at fault here for pitting two professional women against each other.

[@Spaceage713]

They did that purposely fam....cunning

[@bobbyshaw2419]

Bottom line is Rachel said what she said 🤷🏾‍♂️

[@andreanarine8179]

@@bobbyshaw2419 but let's relay what she said correctly. Saying ESPN was trying to improve their diversity profile, isn't the same as saying Maria Taylor is a diversity hire.

[@MikeBNumba6]

@@andreanarine8179 yup

[@blqest125]

jemele hill is 100% wrong. the person who leaked the video is at fault here. that person is kayla johnson, a black woman. she leaked the video to maria taylor, another black woman, in order to gain leverage for her contract renegotiations which she recently turned down a 5 mill year salary because she wanted stephen a smith money.

[@adp023]

Maria Taylor has a great management team ;) Good for her when she gets a killer contract.

[@juliawhitehall]

So then why did espn try to embarrass her by leaking and insinuating that she wanted Stephen A money ?That sounds like they wanted to bully her into backing down in contract negotiations.

[@karu2995]

So everyone condemned what Rachel said, but then spent the whole time saying what she said was true. Make it make sense

[@ProdbyPackTV]

People just wanna feel good bruh. Ion get it! Ion think she did exactly everything right. But I’m privacy I don’t see what’s wrong with what she said. Pure mismanagement on ESPN!

[@RealEstateMover]

@@ProdbyPackTV Would you want someone to say you only make good content because your black instead of your talent ? That’s basically what Rachel was saying. That Maria only got the job cuz she was black. Not the fact she played ACTUAL sports nd been doing espn sideline since 2013 with college football.

[@ProdbyPackTV]

@@RealEstateMover I didn’t get that from what Rachel Said. What I got was ESPN do a really bad job with their diversity. And now a job she was promised to do is being taken away because of it and she doesn’t like it. It’s more of a shot at ESPN than a personal dig.

[@ProdbyPackTV]

@@RealEstateMover She literally said Maria deserves all the opportunities she can get but why at her expense when she did nothing wrong? The Finals has been her thing for a while now, and I’m sure she appreciates the conversations.

[@mosesmartin588]

Bottom line is this…. ESPN changed their minds and picked Maria over Rachel , it’s their right, It happens. Maria is the new fresher face. And her numbers are great. And her ability is even better than her ratings.

[@rdothobson]

Amin’s issue with Woj was some inside info I didn’t expect to hear at all. But I can definitely see that

[@Drocakd]

Like how he got mad when she said Rachel does the same

[@gregorydennie7751]

His statement 🤯 Woj a career killer like damn foot on the neck

[@delconagher12]

Amin is an idiot. Like wtf are you talking about? You just don't make allegations like that & not back it up & just throw a tantrum that your words are truth by saying are you kidding me? It's the corporate world. Everybody is out to further themselves. People have no morals in general. It's not about race, it's about I want to be the top person in this company & I will slit anyone's throat that is in my way. Anybody who wants to follow me you're welcome to join. Black people SMH has to make everything about race sadly. But again this happens to every race every country etc etc. You don't have to be white to slit your competitions throats.

[@shadowguy20004]

Who is the guy with an ‘S’, I really wanna know!

[@magicfinders4966]

@@shadowguy20004 probably Shams. Woj and Shams worked together in Yahoo! Sports.

[@rickygodette]

I wish Paul Pierce got to apologize and keep his job….

[@versewonderstrikes5353]

You can’t apologize for ugly strippers.

[@jmartins2729]

@@versewonderstrikes5353 🤣🤣🤣

[@moniquej369]

Jemele also didn’t get a chance to apologize and keep her job

[@holymsophy]

@@moniquej369 actually she got a chance and she said "fuck, no!" 😂😂😂 I respect that. But she did get a chance to apologize.

[@ceb316]

And Chris Carter

[@NeilTruick]

I'm watching this conversation *again* just after ESPN removed Rachel Nichols from NBA programming and canceled "The Jump." When you put everything in context, ESPN made that recording, then sat on it for a YEAR before they leaked it _right before the NBA Finals started_ and right before Taylor's contract expired. ESPN is the NASCAR of sports entertainment.

[@jordachejordan90]

This is the best conversation on this topic.

[@balltalkdeep]

finally a proper breakdown on what's happening

[@supremeabduljabbar.]

From people who actually worked for the company. Go figure.

[@daveclark8337]

By three people who got dumped by ESPN and are now trying to avoid total obscurity by bitterly commenting on their old company.

[@balltalkdeep]

@@daveclark8337 fair point

[@Lion-uv6yh]

Enjoyed listening to ESPN being shamed…tell it like it is guys

[@shakiid7]

A M E N 🙏🏽

[@lordjolly2267]

I'm black. Rachel Nichols didn't say anything racist, she was just upset that Maria Taylor was getting premium work for diversity/inclusion sake. In what world is Maria Taylor better or more qualified for any NBA job over Rachel Nichols?!? Honestly. Most of y'all barely knew who Maria Taylor was before this story. Taylor's out here asking ESPN for $8 million and suddenly a story from last year leaks, which will make ESPN look bad if they don't pay her. That's no coincidence. Rachel is just a casualty of Taylor's reps demanding more money...

[@jamal4717]

How we barely know her when she was the host of NBA Countdown? Rachel Nichols was jealous and Totally dismissed Maria Taylors accomplishments and said she only.got there because of race. That isn't racist, but it is wrong.

[@_lamar5059]

You're not black . And Rachel is corny as hell on the JUMP

[@lordjolly2267]

@@jamal4717 Lol well I said "most of y'all" not everyone. Maria Taylor ain't Rachel Nichols in terms of recognition. That's all i'm saying. Maria got a 2020 finals job over Rachel without putting in the work Rachel has. Rachel isn't jealous, she's angry. Even in the clip that this is all about, she wishes Maria nothing but the best, but finishes it with "you're not taking my thing away." ESPN took away her thing. This all happened last year btw. The only reason it's even a story now is because Taylor is trying to get a big paycheck, which she probably will now.

[@lordjolly2267]

@@_lamar5059 You're right actually. I'm not just black, i'm a black latino. Rachel should be corny bruh, she's a 47 year old Mom. She's still a pros pro....

[@xxphactor]

@@lordjolly2267 What work did she put in that's different than anyone else putting in work? Oh I get it...Maria is more "athletic".

[@ericwilliams3673]

I love these honest conversations by these people who work for each other and the company ESPN and knew both parties involved.

[@PistonsTalk]

Just watching this I’ve learned so much what actually goes down at ESPN

[@syndicate4105]

Just watch how quickly the minority anchors switch all the time as opposed to the white ones..... hmmmmmmmm......

[@jonjhon8491]

@@syndicate4105 ESPN hates black people. Is that what you wanted to hear?

[@syndicate4105]

If you dont see that in my statement, do not try to push something I did not say

[@jonjhon8491]

@@syndicate4105 What were you implying in your blanket statement then?

[@syndicate4105]

@@jonjhon8491 look at how often the minority anchors get fired or leave

[@TheRealJetLifeGaming]

Love hearing straight facts! Haven’t watched ESPN since

[@hogcarter5733]

Me either

[@northernreflections4653]

Pulling the curtain back on ESPN and exposing their culture. This is the real conversation.

[@blqest125]

and who is in charge of this culture you speak of? that is th real conversation. but i doubt you even know who is in charge of the so called "culture."

[@mosheparanov]

@@blqest125 go ahead and enlighten us Mr. Q

[@blqest125]

@@mosheparanov , why are you asking me? you just said in another post, its me that's brainwashed. why would you ask someone who you think is brainwashed?

[@mosheparanov]

@@blqest125 to help other brainwashed people get better - for prevention - to help you... all kinds of reasons

[@jjhawk4389]

Amin's commentary on Woj is all over local radio here in Dallas/Fort Worth

[@Floyd_Steel]

Why?

[@jjhawk4389]

@@Floyd_Steel "Woj is racist"

[@Floyd_Steel]

@@jjhawk4389 i'm saying why is it such a big deal in the DFW area specifically?

[@jjhawk4389]

@@Floyd_Steel It isn't. I expect it's being played in all the big markets.

[@coryhunt3412]

Just finding this somehow.. 🤯🤲🏾 great show folks. Thanks for bringing this together Dan and crew.

[@algorhythm83]

FINALLY! A conversation where no one is being called a sellout or a Tom. THANK YOU!

[@galonh3835]

They are being called racist. It''s hilarious how the people who invented being a racist, calls someone else a racist!!!

[@e3erockstar08]

Love the TRANSPARENCY. It’s refreshing when a corporation doesn’t control a conversation.

[@SkunkLifeMedia]

Im not even a Le Batard fan but he got a new sub from me for calling out Shit-Lock alone.

[@tarikR.R.5120]

And Clay Travesty

[@wynton921]

These three are such pros, you can’t even tell they are practicing journalism right now. The conversation flows so well.

[@Linz.Edward]

Amin is letting Rachel off the hook. This wasn’t about her losing a job. This was about her losing a job to a person who SHE THOUGHT, was only in line for the position bcuz she was a black female.

[@stickman1742]

He's only sticking up for her because she helped him before. It's all about who you know and who your allied with. This is honest, this is pure selfishness. This is disgusting corporate politics played out in every big company there is. I know, I do work for several of them. People inside corporations are ruthless and stab each other in the back all the time. These people are sickening.

[@jkranites]

@@stickman1742 that's how tv is...grow up

[@mornediablo7819]

Facts I see him trying to tiptoe around it like I understand he knows her and mayne ESPN is shady and racist you cn tell by the comments under their clips but they didnt make her say the things she said

[@jacklane7489]

@@stickman1742 facts

[@sonsolar]

So yall REALLY REALLY REALLY believe that if it was a white woman taking Rachel's spot, Rachel would have just been cool with it? That's rhetorical because I know you're not that foolish. You just want to be mad..I get it.

[@ChadAbdulJabar]

Rachel's dad is a legendary producer. Are you telling me that didn't open doors for her. As if she has done everything in her career based solely on merit.

[@lewisjones3345]

And her mother-in-law is Diane Sawyer

[@cbridges1202]

@@lewisjones3345 That part

[@devinglover-bailey7652]

She showed her true colors. Now it’s our job to call her out on it.

[@ChadAbdulJabar]

@@devinglover-bailey7652 I'm not into cancel culture but, it'd be hard to move on from this. It's like cheating. That doubt will remain.

[@lewisjones3345]

@@devinglover-bailey7652 to be clear, I’m a black man and I don’t think what she did/said was racist. It was racial, and that’s very different. She is saying that management at ESPN feels the pressure due to the cultural & and racial climate to put this other woman in front of her. That can be true and sound harsh at the very same time.

[@SK-bk3yh]

There was no racial undertone in what Rachel said. To paraphrase she said, if ESPN is so concerned about diversity, don't take my job look somewhere else. She didn't need to apologize.

[@segagenesis7708]

Agreed. If anything, have a personal conversation with Maria for clarity sake. That’s about it.

[@yadude101]

Jemele Hill has always been 1 of, if not thee smartest voices on ESPN, it's a shame that ppl would diminish her by saying, oh she got her job b/c she's Black, or b/c she's a woman

[@cwamnehoward5001]

His & Hers after they moved past the stats format, was the best ESPN show in my opinion. I haven't watched since that ended.

[@yosquidd242]

Think a little deeper about b/c she's Black b/c we know she is both intelligent and a woman. So what we like is confidence, not arrogance, we like the assurance of hearing well rounded reporting, not fluff, not tease, and certainly no drama. The action of sport is the description at that moment it is relived is what we seek as displaced fans. Dan and Jemele are two of the most capable, nuff said.

[@jonjhon8491]

😂😂😂😂😂😂

[@BabySpit]

I like her

[@ronniekregar3482]

Pffffft!! She is prolly been 1 of, if not thee dumbest voices on ESPN. Now I'm no Trump supporter , but she sent out a ridiculous tweet and gained game from it. Now she's just milking it for all it worth. I don't blame her for it, but let's call it what it is. She's so daam fake, I cannot stand it.

[@k.e.nownlane3987]

And I love you Dan cuz you will never try to take over the conversation you let everybody do them and be their self

[@ravisubra]

One thing they did miss is that Taylor is 34 and Nichols is 47, so Nichols probably rightly felt that them backtracking on this was effectively the beginning of the end for her in a high profile role at ESPN as we all know that a lot of female presenters tend to get dropped down the pecking order when they get to a certain age, so she was well within her rights to kick up a fuss over them backtracking as she probably thought this was the first step to her role diminishing

[@tacomeat]

so you sayin that red hair dye not working any more

[@ravisubra]

@PancakesAnd Wine Nichols never said Taylor didn’t have talent though, she said she got giving that role because ESPN are trying to look like they give a shit about diversity

[@stickman1742]

They're also trying to hire more people of color. So it only makes sense to replace Nichols with a person of color. If Nichols isn't a hypocrite then she should support it and go on her way. It's looks like she is just another phony. No surprise.

[@ravisubra]

@@stickman1742 lol as if you’d give up a 7 figure job so you look woke!

[@jas1565]

@@ravisubra If she believed that Maria had talent than her first thought wouldn’t be that Maria was being given the role because of diversity..

[@willevickers7940]

Amin is protecting Rachel Nichols and not holding her responsible for her comments. She said what she said privately and it was true and authentic. Rachel beliefs are implied by her statement.

[@Boomer0024]

You are scrutinizing her belief, which was agreed upon in her contract, that she was blindsided by their decision and had a natural human reaction to it? If Rachel Nichols does not survive this then it will be impossible to be a human being with flaws in any space. This was not egregious nor was it personal.

[@bnyc2000]

@@Boomer0024 belief? Dude, stop.

[@Drocakd]

Real

[@Romario12345]

@@Boomer0024 You’re mischaracterizing why people are angry. If she simply expressed her frustration with ESPN for going back on their word, there wouldn’t have been any backlash. The issue is the assertion that Maria was given the gig because she was black. That sort of casual racism is not a “natural human reaction” and the fact that you phrased it as such is very telling.

[@josephpotter7776]

@@Boomer0024 The contract thing is not true. ESPN was not contractually obligated to give her that job.

[@CultivateCrypto]

I love that this channel is after the truth. Nuanced conversations are not the most clickable, but are often the most important. Screw the YT algo. This is the content we need in every niche / industry.

[@keithknox5829]

Mike and Jemele were lit! When they left, I was done.

[@1sand0s45]

Indeed. They were the only people on ESPN that I watched regularly for commentary.

[@galedribble9535]

Did not know Dan had a channel Did not know Amin was out at ESPN Great to see Jemele get a chance to take a tour of media outlets and put her thoughts on the matter out there This was great ✨💫

[@runboyprod3880]

I didn't know Amin was out what happened there?

[@astronautmikejones]

He dipped to join the ship

[@robmckrobmck5567]

Jamelle is ruthless in her hate on Nichols

[@17NateJohnson]

Very interesting to hear from Jemele about her journey as a black female sports columnist.

[@Hallowevedemon]

not really

[@CaptureKing247]

Charles Barkley will be the new host of The Jump 🤣

[@icon2535]

Lmao. He definitely could and should.

[@izzyd3558]

Big Perk

[@Tripp2136]

Loved his and hers…

[@brianrussell5740]

Respect Dan! I hadn’t heard from u since u left ESPN radio glad I found u on KZbin

[@SirGenesis206]

Jemele Hill is a real one. Her and Michael Smith’s run on ESPN moving up from that afternoon slot to prime time was nothing short of special ASM she never stopped being herself ONCE! Unapologetically so. And I’m glad she’s still thriving post ESPN because of it. Great conversation here. I don’t think Rachel is racist. I think she’s mad as hell. I think ESPN does have terrible management. I do think all of this was handled stupidly. Including that apology. But this conversation was spectacular. Subbing to hear more.

[@ronniekregar3482]

Lol, Jamelle Hill is the biggest racist out of all of them. Her show sucked when they moved her up. She's so fake, she's playes the race card every single chance she gets. She's not consistent at all.

[@christianherrera5248]

ESPN needs some of that MAMAS COOKING!

[@joshualevibrown1128]

The Rachel Nichols drama is Better than the actual Game 😂

[@Mrcharles.]

Stephen A: Rachel, I love you and respect you as a reporter, but I think it is in your best interest that you resign immediately from your post. Me: I agree.

[@Dizzle0919]

Rachel stepped over the line when she intimated that Maria was a diversity hire..That's my problem

[@Coolinteresting876]

Hey Patrick, I have question do you think some companies hire brown/black people to meet a diversity hire?

[@Dizzle0919]

@@Coolinteresting876 It can happen but too often any time someone black or brown moves up people who feel some kind of way that is their first thought to downplay that person's achievements

[@Coolinteresting876]

@@Dizzle0919 True.

[@leonardellison2708]

don't you all forget that woman Nichols said about Kobe you will reap what you show.

[@jayy88]

@@Coolinteresting876 if your company is so white that you NEED to hire a minority you were doing it wrong to begin with.

[@chikowashere]

Inside the NBA should be covering the Finals. Sometimes the current halftime show consists of a 30 second recap and 10 minutes of commercials. And no one has any meaningful input. Meanwhile Inside the NBA goes in and always does a deep analysis.

[@hond4h34d]

ESPN has 30 second halftime shows because ESPN knows it's coverage is trash. No one is watching when they can go take a bathroom break or toke a blunt.

[@joec.7403]

The Best Convo about what really happened at ESPN. Thanks.

[@keithdior1657]

Mamas cooking 🤣🤣

[@tacomeat]

oh they won't go there lol

[@TheJSexton24]

Racccheelll

[@tacomeat]

@@TheJSexton24 miss rachhhelll alexanderrr

[@michaelwilliams369]

This was very enlightening, I have an entirely new outlook at the world of sports journalism and how hard it is to move up and how cut throat it can be.

[@SMJay357]

And plus journalism is rarely creating millionaires lol too much of a hassle for me I'm cool in my lil warehouse making this $25 a hr 🤣

[@03blaird]

It's like any other shitty corporate job. Same cutthroat shit!

[@robmckrobmck5567]

Amin is absolutely right. The real story is the glossing over a gross breach of privacy rights

[@ajjonesBOF]

When he said, "Are you fuckin shittin me?" Jemele says "You put THOSE WORDS together?"🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@galedribble9535]

Damn Amin doesn’t like Woj at all. I learned that today

[@Hallowevedemon]

same here lol. Thanks to Amin I'm starting to dislike Woj. I didn't know he was like this

[@thaothao26]

This is a great conversation for a topic with layers. Thank you.

[@ericraiders6343]

If u listen Rachel talking about the higher ups at espn

[@needoc4639]

If you really listen, she saying damn, y'all promoting this Black woman over me? She got the job because she was black. That's what she saying. Lastly, Rachel Nichols has benefited from these new Diversity rules. White women have benefited the most from diversity. Especially in corporate America!!!! Now this woman all last season in the bubble said that she supports Black Lives Matter, that she had sympathy for blacks in regards to the death of George Floyd, that she supports diversity and that she totally understood the kneeling of the national anthem. I mean, she said all of that. Bruh, that's why she was crucified!

[@Bran-Da-Don]

@@needoc4639 Rachel's comment was about ESPN. Her opinion was that Maria was given the spot because she was black. That IS what she said, but she also said it was because ESPN was desperately trying to APPEAR that they were not racist. If any company starts promoting diversity due to fear of being labeled discriminatory then the initial act of diversity is not genuine. It's merely for show. Rachel's contract stipulated that she does the sideline reports during the finals and then suddenly it's taken from her and given to someone else because the company is under pressure due to BLM/George Floyd/Jacob Blake/Brianna Taylor bringing social injustice to the forefront so they're afraid of being labeled as not having diversity. Rachel was merely stating that she shouldn't have to lose her contractually agreed spot just so ESPN can fit in with everybody else.

[@trevorstanley5319]

I must be missing something who made the decision it was not Maria so why she brought into the conversation she should have take out her frustration on ESPN not Maria.

[@needoc4639]

@@Bran-Da-Don What? Are you serious right now? Stop it! This woman was threatened by a Black women, who is educated, more than Qualified, talented, younger well verse, and a former athlete. Rachel played the diversity card, yet, it benefited her. That's how why she came back to espn and took the hosting job with the Jump. She benefited from diversity. She's a white women. White women have benefited from diversity more than any other racial group. Especially in corporate America over her qualified white male counterparts. She blames espn? That's laughable. She was the one who sat in front of the camera last year in the bubble and said that she supports Black Lives Matter group. She said that she understood the protest for George Floyd and that she sympathize with black people. She said that she is all for diversity. She said that she understood the protesting of the flag. That's what she said. Rachel said that. Facts!!! As far as her contract, they are made to be broken. She BASHED her employer. She's lucky to still have a job. This was Rachel's doing all by herself. She showed her true thoughts and her true colors. She is a fraud. This is how she talks to white people behind close doors. She is another entitled white woman.

[@Bran-Da-Don]

@@needoc4639 I agree that she was threatned but not because of Maria's race. She's defensive and territorial about her job and status at the company. I don't like to be one of those black people that automatically starts calling another person racist because I don't believe Rachel Nichols is one of them. I think we're forgetting that Maria was given a slot that was contractually promised to Rachel. You and I don't know because we're on the outside looking in. Rachel is on the inside so therefore she has her own opinions as why. I worked for a company that was afraid of being labeled discriminatory so as a result they started to over-compensate for that by being extra nice to black people and other minorities. I felt insulted because the managers who were in charge only did it because they were forced to do it. Not because they genuinely cared about our issues. I'd be naive to think that same mentality doesn't exist at other companies.

[@bonjohnson2346]

Thanks for covering this topic. I felt like y’all covered this in a very holistic manner

[@harrisonscott4558]

I missed Stu Gotz I gotta get this podcast.😂😂 Stugotz and Poppy used have rolling.😂😂 I miss you Dan Labtard.

[@aLLeY_hOOpZ]

Handle saying she’s not friends with Rachel but friendly, not enough to put on a cape is honestly very refreshing, that is what we are dealing with nowadays because of relationships, and everyone trying to cover their own ass

[@fritzdorisca1364]

The downfall of ESPN I'd starting, kwame Brown effect

[@03blaird]

Kwame knew about the fuckery that was going on, no wonder he kept to himself!

[@nicholasclark9273]

Glad to hear the refreshing conversation and even more glad to see the LeBatard Show bounce back, I will continue to watch... Thanks!

[@tarrenceconyers6548]

All the old ESPN legends

[@terrygallo8999]

Hahaha you mean all the dropouts who actually got too Woke for ESPNCNN.

[@JP-xq7fo]

Jemele Hill and Amin aren't even close to four letter network legends... Stuart Scott, Dan Patrick, Rich Eisen are the true legends

[@therealemceekay]

Love that the convo is nuanced and not reductive. "Real talk" indeed.

[@_Mailman]

First honest conversation I have heard on this and I am honestly shocked I found it here. Great job on this.

[@Lloyd00]

They did Michael and Jemele dirty. They're podcast and shows were so successful and they let stupid people crying about nothing control the narrative.

[@Independent365]

I still like Rachel, but her train of thought on that situation is disrespectful. Every time I watch ESPN, I see numerous black faces talking about Football, Basketball, etc....Hell, Stephen A. Smith is basically the face of the Network. They clearly dont have a diversity issue with black people in front of the camera. Maria got the job because she has shown to be QUALIFIED and CAPABLE for it, PERIOD!

[@WegotTheBOMB]

Keep telling yourself that.

[@frenzal191]

I guess you skipped the part where the job was written into Rachel's contract. Assuming there was no other issues with Rachel, why take it from her?

[@Independent365]

@@WegotTheBOMB 🙄🙄

[@Independent365]

@@frenzal191 Im assuming in the contract it was also stated they can rescinded it whenever they want, or else Rachel wouldve sued them for breach of contract. Unless there is proof they gave it away to do race, WHY even think like that?

[@mwasie]

@@frenzal191 Hi Jeff, do you have details about Rachel's contract because Rachel in the recorded video does not talk about that. Pretty presumptuous of you which tells me where your mind is.

[@jacksonj3082]

Jemele Hill is extremely intelligent and insightful and I wish she were still on ESPN. This is an extremely complex topic - talking social issues on a sports network. Cannot ignore this, but NBA is where athletes are mainly black, but audience is more dominated by non-blacks. So what to choose? Maybe ESPN should have a show(s) dedicated to talking athletics & social issues. If the ratings are justified, keep it going, but if few viewers, this tells you what the audience wants and does not want. Unfortunately, HR first goal is to protect the company, not the employee.

[@rellj8611]

Outside The Lines is a show that discusses sports & social issues and how those intersect with each other.

[@jacksonj3082]

@@rellj8611 hey you're right about that - my bad

[@CaliJatt0809]

Jemele Hill is very intelligent and articulate. I love listening to her.

[@vcsuwar6126]

she's a racist. She's arguing that the NBA is a black sport and so the announcers should reflect the race of the sport. If basketball was a mostly white sport, I'm sure she'd be arguing something totally different.

[@indian71]

What Rachel said proved what Jemele said about minorites being seen as diveristy hires. Rachel "praised" Maria for what she has done, yet said she only got chosen because she was black, basically nullifying the merits Maria has gained. Would Rachel have said this if Maria was going to be chosen for someone elses spot? Or were these sediments still going to be had anytime Maria was challenging her for program duties. Because in either case, its telling of what Rachel thinks of her coworkers.

[@2much4uok]

Exactly!!!

[@1tonio567]

Context. They said ESPN is very reactive to public opinion (George Floyd). She's a vet and had insight that they wanted to go with Maria because of the current climate. She disagreed, and just wanted what she was promised or felt like she deserved.