Welcome to the EsportsNext Podcast! In this episode, we have the pleasure of speaking with Ben Smith, Research Manager at ESPN. Ben has an extensive background at ESPN/The Walt Disney Company, spanning 14 years with a focus on media research for the past 7. A lifelong gamer, Ben’s passion for esports has grown from both a programming and academic perspective. He will be moderating the State of Esports Panel at the upcoming EsportsNext Conference, where he'll share insights on the evolving landscape of professional esports. Tune in to hear Ben discuss his favorite esports title, Overwatch 2, and the unique challenges and opportunities in media research for esports.