ESPN announces launch of 30 for 30 Podcasts, an audio extension of film series

30 for 30 podcastsESPN used an SXSW panel to announce the launch of 30 for 30 Podcasts, a collaboration of ESPN Films and ESPN Audio. The series will start in June. This begins an audio-only version of the well-known 30 for 30 documentary film series, which has produced over 100 films.

Each episode will tell a sports story with a combination of original interviews and archival audio. One story in production is “On the Ice” (working title) about a group of amateur explorers from Britain which became the first all-women team to make it to the North Pole.

“These audio documentaries will break new ground for ESPN while also bringing our signature long-form archival-based approach to the podcasting arena,” said Libby Geist, vice president and executive producer, ESPN Films and Original Content.

All episodes in the first season will be produced and hosted by Jody Avirgan.

Sponsorships already locked in include MINI in partnership with Blue Moon, the Citi® Double Cash card, Delta Airlines, Blue Apron and ZipRecruiter.

“Our initial forays into long-form storytelling – Dunkumentaries and Pin Kings – were top quality and smashing successes, thanks to great collaboration across ESPN,” noted Traug Keller, SVP at ESPN Audio. “There’s no doubt the ESPN Films’ track record augurs well and 30 for 30 Podcasts will be compelling and relevant must-listen content.”

 

Brad Hill