Ryan Ward on Kobe, LeBron & Life on the Lakers Beat: Behind the Purple and Gold

Powered by CJ Moneyway Media and Bleav Network. What does it take to tell the stories behind one of the greatest franchises in sports? On this episode of The CJ Moneyway Show, CJ Moneyway sits down with Ryan Ward—veteran Lakers beat writer and insider—to discuss a career spent covering basketball at the highest level. With more than a decade reporting on the Los Angeles Lakers, Ryan has witnessed championship runs, coaching changes, legendary careers, and the evolution of sports media firsthand. From covering Kobe Bryant’s unforgettable legacy to reporting during the LeBron James era, he offers a unique perspective on the game, the players, and the responsibility of telling their stories with integrity. This transformational conversation goes beyond basketball to explore leadership, perseverance, media, and building a career through consistency and credibility. In This Episode • Behind-the-scenes stories from covering the Lakers • The lasting impact of Kobe Bryant’s legacy • Covering the LeBron James era • The evolution of sports journalism • Building trust as an NBA insider • Lessons from decades around championship culture • Storytelling under pressure Whether you’re a Lakers fan, aspiring sports journalist, content creator, or someone chasing excellence in your own profession, this conversation delivers valuable insights on preparation, professionalism, and purpose. Because great stories aren’t just reported. They’re earned through trust, consistency, and showing up every day. Guest Resources Follow Ryan Ward (Add Ryan’s preferred website or social media links here.) ️ CJ Moneyway Media Website https://cjmoneyway.com ️ Listen to The CJ Moneyway Show https://pod.link/1707761906 ️ Watch on YouTube https://www.youtube.com/@themoneywayshow8493 Moneyway Lab (Coming Soon) Book CJ Moneyway https://calendly.com/cj-cjmoneywayshow/60min Connect on LinkedIn https://www.linkedin.com/in/corwin-johnson-3b7b51aa?utm_source=share&utm_campaign=share_via&utm_content=profile&utm_medium=ios_app Read CJ Moneyway’s Book Both Eyes Open and Both Eyes Shut https://amzn.to/3WnTTYx Moneyway Merchandise https://c.jmoneyway.com Subscribe to the Brick by Brick Newsletter https://substack.com/@cjmoneyway?r=3vvrmy&utm_medium=ios&utm_source=profile Rate The CJ Moneyway Show https://ratethispodcast.com/cjmoneyway CJ Moneyway Listener Benefit Receive $40+ in savings through ReadyRx: https://readyrx.com/treatments/se?coupon=cjmoney Because purpose, performance, and longevity require energy and clarity. ️ About The CJ Moneyway Show The CJ Moneyway Show is a transformational podcast where entrepreneurs, authors, athletes, executives, faith leaders, entertainers, and changemakers share the stories, lessons, and life experiences that inspire growth, leadership, resilience, and legacy. Every conversation is designed to help you build a stronger life, stronger leadership, and a lasting legacy—one conversation at a time. Legacy Over Likes Build It Brick by Brick Plant Seeds Today That Impact Tomorrow Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.