The NHL and iHeartMedia are once again expanding their podcast offerings. Initially, it was NHL Unscripted hosted by Adnan Virk (who spoke with Awful Announcing’s Andrew Bucholtz), and now, we have Energy Line with Nate and JSB, featuring former NHL player Nate Thompson alongside broadcaster Julie Stewart-Binks, who has recently made headlines beyond the realm of hockey.
Last week, the former FS1 host filed a lawsuit claiming that Fox Sports executive Charlie Dixon sexually assaulted her. Dixon, who is also facing a separate lawsuit for sexual assault, has been placed on leave by Fox, which has undoubtedly cast a shadow over the network’s Super Bowl coverage.
Stewart-Binks’ extensive hockey experience positions her well for an NHL-produced podcast. She previously served as a reporter for the Toronto Maple Leafs and was a rinkside reporter during the 2022 Stanley Cup Playoffs on TNT. Before joining the NHL’s media expansion with iHeartMedia, she was recognized as one of the industry’s rising stars at FS1 from 2013 to 2016, gaining accolades for her coverage of the Women’s World Cup and various network appearances. Following her contract not being renewed, she has built a diverse career across several networks, including ESPN, Barstool, and Fubo. Currently, she hosts a podcast for BetRivers and works with SNY. Additionally, she has embraced improv and stand-up comedy in her varied pursuits.
As for Energy Line, the NHL describes it as a dynamic and diverse show where Thompson and Stewart-Binks will exchange stories and host guests from the realms of sports, culture, music, and entertainment, with a few influencers joining the mix.
