Stephen A. Smith’s Plan to Be Next Joe Rogan

Stephen A. Smith, the undisputed king of the hot take on ESPN’s “First Take,” is apparently eyeing a new kind of microphone, one that resonates with the unfiltered, wide-ranging, and often controversial timbre of Joe Rogan. The outspoken sports commentator has recently expressed admiration for Rogan’s podcasting empire, leading to speculation: could Stephen A. be positioning himself as the next dominant force in the broader podcasting landscape, beyond the world of sports?

The connection isn’t entirely out of left field. Smith, much like Rogan, has built a career on bold pronouncements and a magnetic, if sometimes polarizing, personality. His current podcast, “The Stephen A. Smith Show,” already ventures beyond athletics, touching on politics, social issues, and entertainment – a move that mirrors Rogan’s diverse content portfolio on “The Joe Rogan Experience.”

In a clip referenced by Awful Announcing, Smith lauded Rogan for his success and the freedom he commands, particularly highlighting Rogan’s ability to discuss any topic he chooses and the lucrative nature of his platform. This public praise suggests more than just casual observation; it hints at a potential blueprint for Smith’s own evolving ambitions.

Both Smith and Rogan are masters of captivating an audience, albeit with distinct approaches. Smith’s style is characterized by rapid-fire delivery, emphatic pronouncements, and a confrontational debate style honed over years on live television. Rogan, on the other hand, fosters long-form, often meandering conversations, creating an atmosphere of open dialogue that can veer into contentious territories.

While Smith is already a giant in sports media, a move towards a more Rogan-esque model would involve a significant expansion of his brand. It would mean leaning even further into the political and cultural commentary he’s increasingly embraced, potentially alienating some of his sports-focused fanbase while attracting a new, broader audience.

The allure of a Rogan-style platform for Smith is clear: greater editorial control, the ability to delve deeper into a wider array of subjects, and, undoubtedly, the potential for immense financial reward and influence. Smith possesses the name recognition and a dedicated following that could provide a strong launchpad for such a venture.

However, the path is not without its hurdles. Joe Rogan’s success is built on a perception of authenticity and a willingness to engage with figures and ideas across the ideological spectrum, sometimes courting controversy and criticism for platforming misinformation. Should Smith fully embrace this model, he would inevitably face similar scrutiny. Navigating these waters, especially concerning sensitive political and social topics, requires a delicate balance.

Furthermore, the podcasting market is increasingly crowded. While Smith has a built-in audience, carving out a unique space in the vein of Rogan – who has been a dominant force for years – would be a formidable challenge..

Whether Stephen A. Smith will actively try to become the “next Joe Rogan” remains to be seen. However, his expressed admiration for Rogan’s model, coupled with his own podcast’s expanding topical range, signals a clear interest in wielding influence beyond the confines of traditional sports commentary.

For now, fans can continue to enjoy his signature sports takes, but don’t be surprised if Stephen A. Smith’s voice grows louder and more expansive in the ever-evolving world of digital media, potentially giving the podcast king himself a run for his money. The question is not just if he can, but if the audience is ready for Stephen A. Smith, unfiltered and unleashed, in a whole new arena.

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