In this episode of Kronikled, we flip through the pages of Sports Illustrated—from its 1930s beginnings as a niche “country club sports” magazine, through its golden age under Time Inc., to its modern-day identity as a brand more famous for swimsuit editions than anything. We unpack how WWII, television, editorial vision, and shifting ownership shaped its trajectory, and explore why its cultural relevance has waned in recent years. Along the way, we break down the magazine’s media bias, political coverage, and what it might take to win back the next generation of sports fans.
Creators and Guests
Kelsey Russell
Media Literacy Influencer
What is Kronikled ?
Kronikled is a podcast where media literacy gets a mic. Hosted by Kelsey Russell, TikTok’s favorite Print Princess and media literacy baddie, we dive into the history of print, the influence of social media, and the blurred lines between truth and trends. New episodes drop every Tuesday and Thursday on all podcast platforms.