Sports media titan Stephen A. Smith is once again making waves—not with a viral hot take or an explosive on-air debate—but by expanding his already influential media footprint. On June 4, 2025, Smith officially announced the launch of two new radio shows on SiriusXM, further solidifying his position as one of the most recognizable and polarizing voices in sports commentary.
This move represents more than just a career milestone for Smith; it signals a deliberate shift toward deeper, more diverse conversations beyond the studio walls of ESPN’s “First Take.” With these new programs, Smith promises to bring his signature intensity, candor, and passion to audiences in a more personal, direct format—one where his voice stands alone, unfiltered and uncensored.
The Shows: “The Stephen A. Smith Show” and “Unfiltered with Stephen A.”
Smith’s new SiriusXM venture is twofold. First is The Stephen A. Smith Show, which will air weekdays and focus on the day’s biggest sports headlines, athlete interviews, fan calls, and Smith’s no-holds-barred commentary. Listeners can expect everything from NBA Finals breakdowns to deep dives into NFL offseason drama—all delivered with the energy and fire that have become Smith’s trademarks.
The second show, Unfiltered with Stephen A., offers a broader canvas. This weekly program will step outside the confines of traditional sports talk. Here, Smith will explore everything from politics and pop culture to social justice and personal development. Expect candid interviews with politicians, entertainers, cultural critics, and activists. Smith has long expressed interest in discussing topics beyond sports, and this show offers a space where he can engage with issues that matter deeply to him and to his diverse, passionate audience.
Why SiriusXM?
Smith’s partnership with SiriusXM is strategic. Unlike cable television, satellite radio allows for greater freedom of expression. There’s no FCC censorship, and the format lends itself to deeper, more nuanced conversations. For a personality like Stephen A., who thrives on depth, range, and unscripted honesty, it’s an ideal platform.
Additionally, SiriusXM brings a dedicated, nationwide listener base and the flexibility of on-demand streaming through its app. Smith’s voice will reach not only hardcore sports fans but also curious minds eager for intelligent, provocative discourse across different fields.
It’s also worth noting that this move aligns with a broader trend: the migration of top media personalities to satellite radio and podcasting platforms. Like Howard Stern before him, Smith seems ready to break free of traditional broadcasting limitations and cultivate a more intimate, loyal following through direct subscription-based content.
Beyond ESPN: A Growing Media Brand
Smith has spent over two decades building a powerful media brand. While “First Take” has made him a household name, his ambitions extend far beyond the ESPN desk. In recent years, Smith has guest-starred in Hollywood films, launched his own podcast, contributed to political discourse, and even spoken at universities across the United States.
By launching these two SiriusXM shows, he positions himself not just as a sports commentator, but as a full-fledged media entrepreneur. It's a calculated expansion—one that’s clearly timed with a media landscape that favors authenticity, versatility, and long-form storytelling.
This evolution reflects how audiences consume content today. Viewers and listeners want more than highlight reels and box scores—they want insight, opinions, and real talk. Smith knows this and is ready to give them more than just sports analysis. He’s offering context, conversation, and a voice that resonates across boundaries.
Public Reaction and Expectations
The announcement was met with a mix of excitement and curiosity. Fans of Smith are eager to hear him in an environment where he can truly be himself—without the time constraints or filters of cable television. Critics, as always, are skeptical about how Smith’s intense persona will translate to a more unstructured, open format. But if there’s one thing Stephen A. has always done, it’s silence doubters.
For SiriusXM, this is a major win. Adding a talent of Smith’s caliber to its lineup boosts its credibility in both sports and general interest radio. It also creates potential crossover opportunities with other SiriusXM personalities and platforms.
What It Means for the Industry
Smith’s move is more than just a personal career development—it’s emblematic of where sports media is headed. The lines between sports, culture, and politics are increasingly blurred, and audiences want voices that can navigate that intersection. The traditional analyst role is no longer enough. Viewers want thinkers, storytellers, and provocateurs.
By launching these shows, Smith is stepping fully into that role. He’s setting a precedent for other sports personalities to take control of their narratives, build independent platforms, and connect directly with their audiences in meaningful ways.
Final Thoughts
Stephen A. Smith’s SiriusXM venture is bold, ambitious, and exactly what you’d expect from a man who has never shied away from a challenge. Whether dissecting a Game 7 meltdown or offering insights on America’s political divide, Smith promises to bring the same authenticity, passion, and fire that made him a household name.
And now, for the first time in years, his voice won’t just be reacting to the moment—it’ll be defining it.
Let me know if you'd like a follow-up on the debut episodes or an analysis of Stephen A.’s media strategy.
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