Fandom Unpacked
Fandom Unpacked
Podcast Description
Fandom has long been the heartbeat of in-person sports, music, and entertainment experiences, with modern fans organizing and sharing their love (or despair) across hundreds of different platforms. Fandom Unpacked is a 30-minute ask-me-anything style series where we aim to understand the power of modern fandom by engaging with some of the brightest minds in sports and entertainment. We pose a series of questions to our guests to gain insight into the shape of fandom in their industry, inviting our audience to join in on the fun by participating in our bi-monthly livestreams. Register at https://situationlive.com/fan.
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The show delves into several themes surrounding fandom, including community building in sports and entertainment, authentic fan engagement, and emotional storytelling, with episodes featuring discussions on immersive experiences like fandom at sea, the evolution of PBS as a trusted media brand, and the passionate commitment of local sports teams.
Fandom has long been the heartbeat of in-person sports, music, and entertainment experiences, with modern fans organizing and sharing their love (or despair) across hundreds of different platforms. Fandom Unpacked is a 30-minute ask-me-anything style series where we aim to understand the power of modern fandom by engaging with some of the brightest minds in sports and entertainment. We pose a series of questions to our guests to gain insight into the shape of fandom in their industry, inviting our audience to join in on the fun by participating in our bi-monthly livestreams. Register at https://situationlive.com/fan.
What does it mean to be a Broadway fan in today's digital world? In this illuminating conversation with top industry leaders from Playbill, Broadway News, and BroadwayWorld, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of theater fandom and how Broadway is adapting to connect with audiences in new ways.
The misconception that Broadway is niche takes center stage as our guests passionately dismantle this outdated notion. ”It is the greatest myth of all time that Broadway is niche,” asserts Ruthie Fierberg of Broadway News, pointing to the ubiquity of musical theater references across mainstream media as evidence of theater's widespread appeal. This perspective frames a fascinating discussion about how Broadway can leverage its broader-than-acknowledged fanbase.
From the surge in Tony Awards viewership (despite platform challenges) to the transformation of in-theater experiences, our guests explore how Broadway is meeting fans where they are. We discover how pre-show playlists, immersive environments, and strategic photo opportunities are transforming ordinary theatergoers into passionate advocates. Yet the panel emphasizes that while these enhancements matter, the show itself remains the core value.
Looking ahead, our guests share exclusive insights on upcoming productions generating significant pre-opening buzz, including Lost Boys, Ragtime, Chess, and the return of Mamma Mia! Their enthusiasm suggests a bright future for Broadway fandom as the industry continues to balance theatrical tradition with digital innovation.
Whether you're a Broadway superfan or simply curious about how entertainment fandom is evolving in the digital age, this conversation offers invaluable insights into the passionate community that keeps the lights of Broadway shining bright. Subscribe to hear more fascinating discussions about modern fandom across entertainment and sports!
Recorded Tuesday, June 24th, 2025
Hosts: Jeremy Kraus, Managing Partner, Situation & Damian Bazadona, CEO & Founder, Situation
Guests: Alex Birsh, Vice President and COO, Playbill
Ruthie Fierberg, Executive Editor, Broadway News
Robert Diamond, Founder and CEO, BroadwayWorld
Producer: Peter Yagecic, Innovation Advisor, Situation
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