We talk about Shaq and his business dealings all the time here on the ShaqFu Radio blog. As the New Year kicks off, the big man is out with another big idea to launch in 2024 – his own podcast network!
Of course O’Neal has had his very own podcast for some time. You’ve probably listened to (or watched on YouTube) “The Big Podcast With Shaq.” Always good for sports and personal insights – along with the latest hot takes – from the big guy.
Well, now The Big Podcast is set to become more than a single show. Be on the lookout for that program, and others, coming from The Big Podcast Network. O’Neal is in the process of inking a deal with sports entertainment company Playmaker HQ to launch The Big Podcast Network.
Plans are for the network to provide a social media onramp and incubator for athletes and other content creators to launch shows based in the world of sports, business and entertainment. Another one of Shaq’s companies – Jersey Legends Productions – will also produce the podcasts to be hosted by the network.
Not surprisingly, the very first show to debut on the new network will be O’Neal’s very own show, The Big Podcast With Shaq. Previously, that program had been produced and distributed by WBD Sports.
With the rebranding and move to the new network, Shaq’s podcast will bring on NBA host Adam Lefkoe and Playmaker HQ producer Shaine Freeman. No word yet on what that means for current Big Podcast co-hosts Nichelle Turner and Spice Adams.
Episodes of the new podcast are slated to run through the remainder of the NBA season, and will be watchable on The Big Podcast Network’s YouTube channel, WBD’s Bleacher Report, and other audio podcast platforms where the show is already available.
In a press release, Shaq talked about his excitement over the new venture: “I’m excited to work with Playmaker, a creative partner with a unique production and distribution process, to create my own podcast network. The Big Podcast Network will prioritize and uplift fresh and diverse voices that will expand the conversation beyond sports to include music, fashion and entertainment.”
Playmaker is saying good things, too, calling Shaq’s podcast network a “new and innovative platform,” that will give shows from athletes and creators “access to Playmaker HQ’s management, production, distribution and monetization expertise while tapping into Shaq’s creative mind, promotion and vast network of resources.”
Playmaker President and COO Brandon Harris said, “Our audience already loves Shaq, and we can’t wait for them to get to know him even better through this platform. Even more importantly, we couldn’t be more excited to be a driving force behind even more athlete entrepreneurship success stories together with our new network.”
Podcasts and other content from well-known athletes are definitely in the spotlight these days. How about Jason and Travis Kelce’s New Heights podcast as an example. Big media companies like WBD Sports’ Bleacher Report are all looking for bigger, better ways to get in the game. For example, media reports say former NFL kicker Pat McAfee has signed an $85 million deal with ESPN earlier this year.
The big man is at it again. Can’t wait to see who he brings on board with the new Big Podcast Network.