Author Archives: HANG Media

HANG Media and Wells Fargo Kickoff Fall Fandom Festival

Second-Screen Watch Parties for NFL and HBCU Football, plus the Latin GRAMMYs, Bring Fans Face-to-Face with Celebrities and Athletes for Authentic Conversation and Celebration

NEW YORK, N.Y., Aug. 28, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Wells Fargo, the financial services leader dedicated to serving customers and their communities, and HANG Media, the award-winning fan engagement agency, are teaming up this fall to deliver a series of free virtual watch parties celebrating football and music.

Image caption: HANG Media and Wells Fargo Kickoff Fall Fandom Festival.

Launching August 30 with the Orange Blossom Classic, the initiative will run through November and give fans the chance to interact on-camera with entertainers and athletes while watching the games or shows on their own TVs. Thanks to Wells Fargo’s support, participation is free.

The partnership builds on a relationship that began with the 2021 Celebration Bowl. Since then, HANG and Wells Fargo have collaborated on dozens of interactive events, connecting tens of millions of fans with stars like Shannon Sharpe, Anthony Anderson, JB Smoove, Terrell Owens, and Chris Carter. Wells Fargo leaders have also shared insights on personal finance and careers, adding unique value for attendees.

“Our HANG watch parties not only bring the fun – they provide Wells Fargo with a uniquely personal way to thank the customers and communities who are central to our mission,” said Gigi Dixon, Wells Fargo’s Executive Vice President and Head of External Engagement. “By engaging fans where their passions live, inside the excitement of live sports and music, we’re able to forge authentic connections that go far beyond traditional sponsorships.”

FALL FANDOM EVENTS LINEUP

Saturday, August 30 – 4 PM EDT: Orange Blossom Classic Virtual Watch Party
Howard vs. Florida A&M, featuring Isaac Keys (Morehouse alumnus, former NFL player, actor), Terrence J (North Carolina A&T alumnus, Emmy-winning host and actor), and Lady Jade (radio personality, moderator).

Thursday, September 4 – 8 PM EDT: NFL Kickoff – Cowboys @ Eagles
With Vernon Davis (Super Bowl Champion), Mohamed Sanu (veteran WR), Deatrich Wise Jr. (Washington Commanders DE), and Lady Jade.

Sunday, September 28 – 1 PM EDT: Commanders @ Falcons
Vernon Davis and Mohamed Sanu reunite with fans of both teams.

Thursday, November 13 – 8 PM EST: Latin GRAMMY Awards
Hosted by three-time Emmy winner and author Gaby Natale.

Sunday, November 23 – 4:25 PM EST: Falcons @ Saints
Vernon Davis and Mohamed Sanu return to hang with fans.

PRESS CONTACT:
LeslieAnne Wade
Wade Media Management
Lwade@wademediamanagement.com

NEWS SOURCE: HANG Media

This press release was issued on behalf of the news source (HANG Media), who is solely responsible for its accuracy, by Send2Press Newswire. Image, if any, was provided by the news source and not this website or the wire service. Information is believed accurate, as provided by the news source, but is not guaranteed.

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/hang-media-and-wells-fargo-kickoff-fall-fandom-festival/

Former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services, Tommy Thompson, Visits Dr. Howard Zucker’s ‘Docology’ Podcast on July 14

NEW YORK, N.Y., July 10, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Former U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Tommy Thompson will join host Dr. Howard Zucker for an upcoming episode of the viewer-interactive podcast, “Docology,” on Monday, July 14, 2025 at 1 p.m. ET, HANG Media announced today. Thompson, who served under President George W. Bush, is the latest in a long line of prestigious experts providing compelling, fact-based insights into urgent public health matters, including Dr. Sanjay Gupta (CNN), Dr. David Kessler (former FDA commissioner), and Nancy Brinker (Founder of Susan G. Komen for the Cure and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom).

Image caption: Groundbreaking Health Podcast “Docology.”

Dr. Zucker is a renowned public health leader who served under Thompson during the George W. Bush Administration and went on to become a top official of the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization, and New York State Health Commissioner. In March, he launched “Docology,” a video podcast delivering the most reliable, proven medical information while sounding early warnings about impending public health problems.

Zucker teams with former CNN/US president Jon Klein’s HANG Media to introduce a new twist to the popular podcast format: audience participation. Viewers are able to watch “Docology” for free on YouTube and Substack, and listen on Spotify and Apple Podcasts. Paying subscribers are able to join the show on camera and in a text chatroom to ask questions directly of Zucker and his global network of guest experts. The show illuminates today’s most pressing health challenges, including the explosion of measles deaths, vaccine safety, avian flu, water fluoridation and the safety of weight loss drugs, and more.

“There is more anxiety and concern around health than ever before,” said Zucker, a board-certified pediatrician, anesthesiologist, cardiologist, and intensive care specialist – as well as a lawyer. “The best cure for confusion is unbiased information, which we deliver directly to our Docology viewers. In return, they share their experiences and questions. While a practicing physician, I learned the importance of listening to the patient. That’s why Docology makes patients part of the show.”

“The unique communal experiences that HANG Media creates have enabled tens of millions of people around the world to speak face to face with top celebrities, athletes, and thought leaders,” said Klein, HANG co-founder and CEO. “We are delighted to partner with someone of Howard’s stature to apply our AI-driven media technology in service of better health for everyone.”

About Howard Zucker, MD:

As Commissioner of Health for the State of New York, he led the state’s efforts to combat the Zika and Ebola viruses, legionella and measles outbreaks, ensure water quality and safety, and stem the COVID-19 pandemic, among many other public health crises. He served as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Health under Tommy Thompson and as Assistant Director-General of the World Health Organization and as a Deputy Director at the CDC.

About HANG Media:

The leading fan engagement agency, HANG Media has connected more than 60 million people with the most influential voices in the world – star athletes, performers, and recognized experts – while integrating blue chip brands including Wells Fargo, McDonald’s, State Farm, Toyota, and MolsonCoors into these unique experiences. Hang solutions average session lengths of nearly 90 minutes, attracting audiences that are predominantly 18-44, while generating first-party data and usage analytics that provide partners with deep insights into current and potential customers. Hang experiences have won three Cynopsis Sports Media Awards – for best fan engagement, production innovation, and brand activation. Learn more at: https://hang.media

MEDIA CONTACT:
LeslieAnne Wade
HANG Media
Lwade@wademediamanagement.com

HANG LOGO Link for media: https://www.Send2Press.com/300dpi/23-0405-s2p-hang-logo-300dpi.jpg

NEWS SOURCE: HANG Media

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/former-u-s-secretary-of-health-and-human-services-tommy-thompson-visits-dr-howard-zuckers-docology-podcast-on-july-14/

Groundbreaking Health Podcast ‘Docology’ Launching March 18

Global Health Leader Howard Zucker Teams with HANG Media to Invite the Audience Onto The Show

NEW YORK, N.Y., Feb. 25, 2025 (SEND2PRESS NEWSWIRE) — Dr. Howard Zucker, who as a top official of the Centers for Disease Control and the World Health Organization, and New York State Health Commissioner, rigorously applied data to ensure that billions of people received the best possible care, announced the launch of “Docology,” a video podcast intended to deliver the most reliable, proven medical information directly to the public, and sound early warnings about impending public health problems. Zucker is teaming with former CNN/US president Jon Klein’s HANG Media to introduce a new twist to the popular podcast format: audience participation.

Image caption: Groundbreaking Health Podcast “Docology” launches.

Beginning March 18, 2025, viewers will be able to watch “Docology” for free on YouTube, Substack, and other platforms, while paying subscribers will be able to join the show on camera and in a text chatroom to ask their questions directly of Zucker and his global network of guest experts. They will explain in plain English today’s most urgent health issues and what you can do about them, including bird flu, the rapid spread of non-avian flu, measles, fluoridation of water, the safety of vaccines and weight loss drugs, global health security, and more. And they will flag potential crises that may be developing under the public’s radar.

“There is more anxiety and concern about health than ever before,” said Zucker, a board-certified pediatrician, anesthesiologist, cardiologist, and intensive care specialist who served as Deputy Director for Global Health at the Centers for Disease Control under President Joe Biden and as Deputy Assistant Secretary of Health under President George W. Bush. “The best cure for confusion is unbiased information, which I’ll deliver directly to our Docology viewers. In return, they’ll share their experiences and concerns with me. While a practicing physician, I learned the importance of listening to the patient. That’s why Docology will make patients part of the show.”

“The unique communal experiences that HANG Media creates have enabled tens of millions of people around the world to speak face to face with top celebrities, athletes, and thought leaders,” said Klein, co-founder and CEO. “We are delighted to partner with someone of Howard’s stature to apply our AI-driven media technology in service of better health for everyone.”

About Howard Zucker, MD:

Having graduated from George Washington University medical school at the age of 22, Howard Zucker went on to work at some of the nation’s leading hospitals while also earning two law degrees and a postgraduate diploma in global health policy and being appointed a White House Fellow under George W. Bush. As Commissioner of Health for the State of New York, he led the state’s efforts to combat the Zika and Ebola viruses, legionella and measles outbreaks, ensure water quality and safety, and stem the COVID-19 pandemic, among many other public health crises.

About HANG Media:

MEDIA CONTACT:
LeslieAnne Wade
leslieanne@letshang.live

NEWS SOURCE: HANG Media

To view the original story, visit: https://www.send2press.com/wire/groundbreaking-health-podcast-docology-launching-march-18/

Wells Fargo Partners with Award-Winning Online Fan-Athlete Community, HANG, to Connect HBCU Fans and Stars for The Celebration Bowl

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Wells Fargo, in partnership with the award-winning fan-athlete community, HANG, will bring a one-of-a-kind watch-party game experience to HBCU fans for the storied match-up between Howard University and Florida A&M at the Celebration Bowl on December 14, 2023. Actor and former NFL linebacker Isaac Keys (Morehouse); NFL Hall of Famer Aeneas Williams (Southern); Miami Dolphins star Terron Armstead (UAPB), Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive lineman Nick Leverett (North Carolina Central) and pro basketball player Shakyla Hill (Grambling) will be among the HBCU notables who will celebrate the HBCU experience while discussing the game with fans around the country who register for free via https://letshang.live/.

"Wells Fargo looks forward to partnering with the HANG team for the second straight year to bring a unique virtual game experience to HBCU fans during the Celebration Bowl broadcast," said Dewey Norwood, Senior Diversity and Inclusion Consultant. "We're thrilled to celebrate the two competing schools - Florida A&M University and Howard University."

"We're staging a special event with a unique partner for an extraordinary community," said Jon Klein, HANG's co‐founder and CEO and the former president of CNN/US. "Our Celebration Bowl HANG will be a virtual reunion for the entire HBCU family - personifying Wells Fargo's commitment to enriching peoples' lives."

Wells Fargo is a longtime supporter of HBCUs. Since 2011, they have given more than $40 million in scholarships and programming to HBCUs and organizations that support them. Prior to the start of the 2023 college football season Wells Fargo announced plans to expand its support to six major HBCU football classics, committing $300,000 in scholarships to the competing schools and providing financial workshops for students, alumni and fans.

About Wells Fargo:

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a leading financial services company that has approximately $1.9 trillion in assets, proudly serves one in three U.S. households and more than 10% of small businesses in the U.S., and is a leading middle market banking provider in the U.S. We provide a diversified set of banking, investment and mortgage products and services, as well as consumer and commercial finance, through our four reportable operating segments: Consumer Banking and Lending, Commercial Banking, Corporate and Investment Banking, and Wealth & Investment Management. Wells Fargo ranked No. 47 on Fortune's 2023 rankings of America's largest corporations. In the communities we serve, the company focuses its social impact on building a sustainable, inclusive future for all by supporting housing affordability, small business growth, financial health, and a low-carbon economy. News, insights, and perspectives from Wells Fargo are also available at Wells Fargo Stories.

Additional information may be found at https://www.wellsfargo.com/.

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/wellsfargo

About HANG:

Hang Media, winner of the 2023 Cynopsis Sports Award for best production innovation, is the leading celebrity‐fan community, with nearly one million views of each virtual watch party around major sports events including pro and college football, basketball, baseball, and soccer. Since HANG's founding in September 2021, over 25 million sports fans have come face to face with their idols and star athletes, performers, and influencers - while everyone watches the game on their own TV's. It's a dream come true for sports lovers, who get to have fun and frank conversations with their heroes about life on and off the field, play trivia contests, and sample products delivered by top sponsors including Toyota, Coca‐Cola, Wells Fargo, MolsonCoors, Dave & Busters, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Pernod Ricard, and others.

Join the fun at https://letshang.live - or contact LeslieAnne Wade at Lwade@wademediamanagement.com for more information.

RELATED LINKS:

https://newsroom.wf.com/English/news-releases/news-release-details/2023/Wells-Fargo-expands-support-to-six-major-HBCU-football-classics-through-scholarships-and-financial-workshops/default.aspx

https://stories.wf.com/

Wells Fargo, in partnership with the award-winning fan-athlete community, HANG, will bring a one-of-a-kind watch-party game experience to HBCU fans for the storied match-up between Howard University and Florida A&M at the Celebration Bowl on December 14, 2023. Actor and former NFL linebacker Isaac Keys (Morehouse); NFL Hall of Famer Aeneas Williams (Southern); Miami Dolphins star Terron Armstead (UAPB), Tampa Bay Buccaneers offensive lineman Nick Leverett (North Carolina Central) and pro basketball player Shakyla Hill (Grambling) will be among the HBCU notables who will celebrate the HBCU experience while discussing the game with fans around the country.

Related link: https://letshang.live/

Leading Direct-to-Consumer Sports Platform, HANG, Raises $9.2 Million Series A Round

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Hang Media, Inc., whose award-winning HANG platform (letshang.live) has drawn more than 22 million young viewers to interactively experience sports events alongside current players, all-time greats, and celebrities, has completed a $9.2 million Series A funding round. HANG will use the proceeds to accelerate product development and audience growth, expanding its leadership position in the rapidly growing direct-to-consumer sports media category.

The financing was led by The Operating Group, a holding company run by media, technology and finance executive Ken Cron. Joining the round were Clara Vista Investment Partners, whose partners include former NBCU Television Chairman Jeff Gaspin, former Credit Suisse TMT chairman Mark Simonian, and Bob Gold, former CEO of Ridgewood Capital; Ratner Ventures, an investment and consulting firm lead by Hank Ratner, the former CEO of the Madison Square Garden Company; Brown Angel Group; and Anthony Baranello, a private investor. Emergetic, LLC partners Mark Lieberman and Ron Frankel advised Hang Media on the transaction.

HANG, co-founded by CEO Jon Klein - the multiple Emmy- and Peabody-winning former President of CNN - and CTO Lorne Greene - CEO of Viva Creative, a leading live experience producer - enables fans to mingle with their heroes on livestreams across YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch. Hundreds of current athletes, including Deebo Samuel, Micah Parsons, Odell Beckham, Jr., DeMar DeRozan and Zach LaVine, have joined legends including Deion Sanders, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Bill Walton, and Clint Dempsey, and entertainers including Emmy winners Anthony Anderson and JB Smoove - in virtual parties offering up-close access to the stars. Each HANG averages 800,000 viewers, sixty percent of them in the 18-44 demographic that advertisers covet. HANG's fans engage with the platform an astounding average of one hour and twenty minutes. HANG's unique combination of broad reach and deep Gen Z engagement has drawn leading sponsors, including Toyota, Wells Fargo, MolsonCoors, Coca-Cola, Dave & Busters, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Smokey Bones, and Pernod-Ricard.

"Gen Z fans want sports viewing to be a communal experience, and they crave authentic, up-close access to their favorite personalities," said Jon Klein, HANG's co-founder and CEO. "That's exactly what HANG delivers - a livestreamed second screen experience, where the audience is as much a star as the athletes - which is why we've become a Gen Z magnet. We make fans' dreams come true, while delivering results that major brands cannot achieve anywhere else."

"We are excited to partner with the amazing HANG team," said Ken Cron, CEO of The Operating Group. "HANG has a deep understanding of the next generation fan, and the power of live sports to deliver true engagement in a fragmenting media landscape. By building community and interactivity into traditional sports viewing, HANG is transforming these everyday events into unique experiences that directly connect fans with their celebrity heroes to create lasting memories."

About HANG

Hang Media, winner of the 2023 Cynopsis Sports Award for best production innovation, is the leading fan-celebrity community, driving 800,000 views of each virtual watch party around major sports events including pro and college football, basketball, baseball, soccer, and cricket. Since HANG's founding in September 2021, more than 22 million young sports fans have come face-to-face with their idols ‐ star athletes, performers, and influencers - while everyone watches the game on their own devices. It's a dream come true for sports lovers, who get to have fun and frank conversations with their heroes about life on and off the field, play trivia contests, and sample products delivered by top sponsors including Toyota, Wells Fargo, MolsonCoors, Academy Sports + Outdoors, and others. Learn more: https://letshang.live/

About The Operating Group

The Operating Group is a holding company that partners with outstanding entrepreneurs to build the next generation of technology-driven businesses. Led by a team of accomplished operating and financial executives, The Operating Group takes an active approach in working with its partner companies. In addition to providing capital to fund growth, The Operating Group provides strategic, operational and financial support, helping founders navigate the challenges of a rapidly changing market and optimize business models to achieve success.

Hang Media, Inc., whose award-winning HANG platform (letshang.live) has drawn more than 22 million young viewers to interactively experience sports events alongside current players, all-time greats, and celebrities, has completed a $9.2 million Series A funding round. HANG will use the proceeds to accelerate product development and audience growth, expanding its leadership position in the rapidly growing direct-to-consumer sports media category.

Related link: https://letshang.live/

Toyota Partnership with HANG Media Targets Niche Segments, Generates Wide Audience

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Toyota and HANG, the leading direct-to-consumer fan platform, are deploying innovative media approaches this sports season that are driving audience levels higher than television, with deeper data insights and engagement. To introduce its first-ever Grand Highlander SUV to targeted Black and Indian expat consumers, Toyota and its agencies, Burrell and InterTrend, have leveraged HANG's unique second-screen experiences to power deep engagement across more than 1 million views during the Toyota HBCU NY Classic football game in September, and October's India-Pakistan Cricket World Cup match. They will be teaming up again for the Cricket World Cup Finals on November 19.

HANG virtual activations enable fans across the country and around the world to watch televised games alongside current players, all-time greats, and celebrities, mingling on camera, via text or on livestreams across YouTube, Facebook, and Twitch. Fans stay on platform an astounding average of one hour and twenty minutes, asking questions, hearing inside stories, and getting pro tips.

For the HBCU NY Classic, Howard University graduate and Emmy nominee Anthony Anderson joined the watch party with Morehouse alums Isaac Keys, the actor and former NFL star, and Edwin Moses, the renowned track and field champion, from a Toyota suite at the game, while HBCU legends including NFL Hall of Famer Aeneas Williams beamed in from their homes. The India-Pakistan match featured Indian cricketer Unmukt Chand, who stars in a new Grand Highlander television spot aimed at the Asian-Indian consumer, along with fellow cricketers and Indian entertainers.

"Toyota and HANG are a natural fit," said William Moore, VP/Media Director with Burrell Communications Group. "HANG watch parties create a comfortable space for the whole family to enjoy an amazing experience - just like the first-ever Grand Highlander does. We're thrilled to have hosted an HBCU 'family reunion' for committed alums and students across the country, and to be making millions of Indian expats feel right at home during the Cricket World Cup."

"The entire media industry is desperate to engage audiences directly, and HANG has been ahead of the pack in understanding the power of eliminating the middleman," said Jon Klein, HANG's co-founder and CEO and the former president of CNN. "As humans, we all yearn to connect face to face. So we've been delighted to partner with Toyota to help spread the love."

About Toyota:

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for more than 65years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next‐generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs more than 48,000 people in North America, who have contributed to the design, engineering and assembly of nearly 45 million cars and trucks at our 13 manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota's 14th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 20 electrified options, with more in showrooms later this year.

Through the Start Your Impossible campaign, Toyota highlights the way it partners with community, civic, academic and governmental organizations to address our society's most pressing mobility challenges. We believe that when people are free to move, anything is possible. For more information about Toyota, visit https://pressroom.toyota.com/.

About HANG:

Hang Media, winner of the 2023 Cynopsis Sports Award for best production innovation, is the leading celebrity‐fan community, with nearly one million views of each virtual watch party around majors ports events including pro and college football, basketball, baseball, and soccer. Since HANG's founding in September 2021, nearly 20 million sports fans have come face to face with their idols ‐ star athletes, performers, and influencers - while everyone watches the game on their own. It's a dream come true for sports lovers, who get to have fun and frank conversations with their heroes about life on and off the field, play trivia contests, and sample products delivered by top sponsors including Coca‐Cola, Wells Fargo, MolsonCoors, Dave & Busters, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Pernod Ricard, and others.

Join the fun at https://letshang.live

Toyota and HANG, the leading direct-to-consumer fan platform, are deploying innovative media approaches this sports season that are driving audience levels higher than television, with deeper data insights and engagement. To introduce its first-ever Grand Highlander SUV to targeted Black and Indian expat consumers, Toyota and its agencies, Burrell and InterTrend, have leveraged HANG's unique second-screen experiences to power deep engagement across more than 1 million views.

Related link: https://letshang.live/

Toyota and Hang Media Partner to Offer a Grand New and Connected Way to Watch The HBCU NY Classic From MetLife Stadium

NEW YORK, N.Y /ScoopCloud/ -- Toyota, whose first‐ever 2024 Grand Highlander SUV touts "the best views from every row," will be offering fans the best viewing experience when Morehouse College faces Albany State University in the 2nd annual HBCU NY Classic football game at MetLife Stadium on Saturday, September 16. Teaming with HANG, the leading fan-athlete community, Toyota will be hosting a virtual watch party in which fans will mingle with athletes and celebrities in a video chat room while watching the action on TV. Howard University Class of '22 graduate and multiple Emmy nominee Anthony Anderson, and Morehouse alums Isaac Keys, the actor and former NFL star and Edwin Moses, the renowned track and field champion, will watch from a Toyota suite at the game.

Anderson will be flipping the coin at the start of the game, which Toyota is sponsoring for the second straight year. He'll then head up to a skybox to socialize with fellow alums for what will be his fourth HANG party, following two HBCU Celebration Bowl HANGS as well as the Kentucky Derby. Isaac Keys- an ex‐linebacker who appreciates every inch of extra space-will be showcasing the roomier‐than‐ever 2024 Grand Highlander at Toyota's pre‐game YardFest at MetLife.

Joining Anderson, Keys and Moses virtually will be HBCU legend Aeneas Williams (NFL Hall of Famer and Southern University alum) as well as current NFL standouts Grover Stewart (Indianapolis Colts defensive tackle and Albany State graduate), Joshua Williams (Kansas City Chiefs cornerback and Fayetteville State alum) and University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff graduates Terron Armstead (Miami Dolphins four‐time Pro Bowl left tackle) and his protégé, Mark Evans II (New Orleans Saints rookie offensive tackle).

Hundreds of thousands of HBCU supporters are expected to join the HANG either on camera, via text thread or by watching the live stream on YouTube, Facebook Live or Twitch.

"Toyota and HANG are a natural fit," said William Moore, VP/Media Director with Burrell Communications Group. "HANG watch parties create a comfortable space for the whole family to enjoy an amazing experience-just like the new Grand Highlander does. We're thrilled to be hosting an HBCU 'family reunion' where committed alumni, students and parents across the country can join the HBCU NY Classic without ever leaving home, while asking questions and swapping stories with legendary classmates and heroes. There's room to spare in a HANG, and in a Grand Highlander."

"The entire media industry is eager to engage audiences directly, and HANG has been ahead of the pack in understanding the power of eliminating the middleman," said Jon Klein, HANG's co‐founder and CEO and the former president of CNN/US. "We've learned that the glue connecting athletes, fans and brands is love-the fans' love of their teams and favorite players; the athletes' love of getting out from under the helmet to reveal the fully‐formed person inside and everyone's love of products that make their lives easier and more fun."

About Toyota

Toyota (NYSE:TM) has been a part of the cultural fabric in North America for more than 65 years, and is committed to advancing sustainable, next‐generation mobility through our Toyota and Lexus brands, plus our more than 1,800 dealerships.

Toyota directly employs more than 48,000 people in North America, who have contributed to the design, engineering and assembly of nearly 45 million cars and trucks at our 13 manufacturing plants. By 2025, Toyota's 14th plant in North Carolina will begin to manufacture automotive batteries for electrified vehicles. With more electrified vehicles on the road than any other automaker, Toyota currently offers 20 electrified options, with more in showrooms later this year.

Through the Start Your Impossible campaign, Toyota highlights the way it partners with community, civic, academic and governmental organizations to address our society's most pressing mobility challenges. We believe that when people are free to move, anything is possible. For more information about Toyota, visit www.ToyotaNewsroom.com.

About HANG

Hang Media, winner of the 2023 Cynopsis Sports Award for best production innovation, is the leading celebrity‐fan community, with nearly one million views of each virtual watch party around majors ports events including pro and college football, basketball, baseball, and soccer. Since HANG's founding in September 2021, nearly 20 million sports fans have come face to face with their idols ‐ star athletes, performers, and influencers - while everyone watches the game on their own TV's. It's a dream come true for sports lovers, who get to have fun and frank conversations with their heroes about life on and off the field, play trivia contests, and sample products delivered by top sponsors including Coca‐Cola, Wells Fargo, MolsonCoors, Dave & Busters, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Pernod Ricard, and others.

Join the fun at https://letshang.live

MEDIA CONTACT:

LeslieAnne Wade

Hang Media

Lwade@wademediamanagment.com

917-751-7693

Toyota, whose first‐ever 2024 Grand Highlander SUV touts "the best views from every row," will be offering fans the best viewing experience when Morehouse College faces Albany State University in the 2nd annual HBCU NY Classic football game at MetLife Stadium on Saturday, September 16. Teaming with HANG, the leading fan-athlete community, Toyota will be hosting a virtual watch party in which fans will mingle with athletes and celebrities in a video chat room while watching the action on TV.

Related link: https://letshang.live/

Chiney Ogwumike Joins Hang Media and is Named Co-Founder of HANG Academy

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Two-time WNBA All-Star and ESPN host and analyst Chiney Ogwumike has joined the team at Hang Media as Co-Founder of HANG Academy, a new women's mentorship initiative of HANG, the Cynopsis Award-winning streaming platform. HANG Academy will work with brands to provide athlete, influencer and expert-infused virtual in-person education adjacent to celebrated women's sports events.

The project is an extension of HANG's regular slate of brand-driven, celebrity-engaged second-screen experiences during the nation's largest sporting events. To date, the leading fan-engagement platform has connected nearly 20 million sports fans with their heroes, the majority 18-44 years old, nearly half of them women.

Inspired by the chance to "create a blueprint for the next generation," the LA Sparks power forward and host and analyst on ESPN's NBA Today and ESPN's NBA Countdown will convene female leaders in business, media, the arts, and of course, sports as featured faculty conducting virtual and in-person training sessions for young women enrollees. The inaugural Hang Academy will roll out at halftime of the NWSL Championship game in the fall of 2023 and will continue across a slate of programs in women's sports-related HANGS throughout 2023-2024.

"I'm doing this for my little sisters, and everyone else's," said Ogwumike, who appeared in HANG's watch party for the NCAA Women's Final Four in March which attracted 1 million viewers. "The explosion of interest in women's sports is so gratifying, but now it's time to translate that awareness into impact. I'm living proof that sports can profoundly change women's lives, but I lucked into it. HANG Academy will provide millions of girls out there with an actionable plan for managing their careers, their finances, and their personal growth."

"HANG is all about human connection, face to face - and no one connects better than Chiney," said HANG co-founder and CEO Jon Klein. "The idea for HANG Academy jumped out during our Women's Final Four HANG, when Chiney spontaneously began counseling a mom about the many off-the-court paths open to her daughter who is hoping for a career in the WNBA, whether in finance, marketing, analytics, or coaching. That combination of expertise and authentic concern will be the hallmark of HANG Academy."

The daughter of a school superintendent in her native Houston, Texas, Ogwumike is deeply committed to education and public service and has long been a trailblazer. In 2020, she became the first Black woman and first WNBA player to host a daily national radio show for ESPN. She was one of the first and youngest ever to serve simultaneously as a full-time broadcaster for ESPN while a professional athlete. A graduate of Stanford University, she played in three NCAA Division 1 Women's Final Fours. She was elected Vice President of the WNBA player's association in 2016. She is a two-time WNBA All-Star and was WNBA Rookie of the Year in 2014.

About HANG:

Hang Media, winner of the 2023 Cynopsis Sports Award for best production innovation, is the leading celebrity-fan community, a magnet for the elusive Gen Z audience. Each HANG event attracts nearly one million users - 60% of them 18-44 - to virtual watch parties around sports events including pro and college football, basketball, baseball, and soccer. Since HANG's founding in September 2021, nearly 20 million sports fans have come face to face with their idols - star athletes, performers, and influencers - while everyone watches the game on their own TVs.

Fans stay for an average of nearly 90 minutes per session, because HANGS is a dream come true for sports lovers, who get to have fun and frank conversations with their heroes about life on and off the field, play trivia contests, and sample products delivered by top sponsors including Coca-Cola, Wells Fargo, United Airlines, Dave & Busters, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Pernod Ricard, and others.

Join the fun at https://letshang.live

Two-time WNBA All-Star and ESPN host and analyst Chiney Ogwumike has joined the team at Hang Media as Co-Founder of HANG Academy, a new women's mentorship initiative of HANG, the Cynopsis Award-winning streaming platform. HANG Academy will work with brands to provide athlete, influencer and expert-infused virtual in-person education adjacent to celebrated women's sports events.

Related link: https://letshang.live/

HANG Doubles Down on Programming and Brand Engagement for Women’s Sports, Expands Sales and Marketing Team with Industry Vets Sara Gotfredson and Ashley Rutledge

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Fresh off attracting more than 1 million viewers to its NCAA Women's Final Four viewing party, HANG, the award-winning fan-athlete community, is welcoming two women steeped in sports and digital marketing to lead a deeper push into women's sports programming, brand engagement and marketing.

With nearly 20 years of digital, traditional media and brand building experience with ESPN, the Walt Disney Company, and CBS Sports, Sara Gotfredson brings to HANG the proven expertise of her Trailblazing Sports Group, a mission based, female-founded sports marketing company focused on elevating women's sports via storytelling and partnerships. While at ESPN, Gotfredson worked with numerous Fortune 100 brands creating powerful partnerships which are recognized as game changers in female-focused marketing investments.

Ashley Rutledge has spearheaded hundreds of storytelling brand relationships and strategic team building initiatives at Snapchat, Facebook and CNN. She is recognized for creating innovative digital opportunities for traditional brands including GE, Diageo, Macy's and Unilever. Her career spans branding and digital media businesses in the US and Canada.

"Of the tens of millions of fans who flock to HANG's second-screen experiences, half are women, and we're committed to connecting them directly to the iconic personalities they feel most passionate about," said Jon Klein, HANG co-founder and CEO. "Sara and Ashley are unmatched in understanding the power of women as purchase decision-makers, and how to harness that energy on behalf of brands via sports."

Gotfredson and Rutledge will collaborate closely with HANG's Head of Marketing and Customer Success, Liz Poerner, and Head of Sales Evan Messinger.

About HANG:

Hang Media, winner of the 2023 Cynopsis Sports Award for best production innovation, is the leading celebrity-fan community, with nearly one million views of each virtual watch party around major sports events including pro and college football, basketball, baseball, and soccer. Since HANG's founding in September 2021, nearly 20 million sports fans have come face to face with their idols - star athletes, performers, and influencers - while everyone watches the game on their own TV's.

It's a dream come true for sports lovers, who get to have fun and frank conversations with their heroes about life on and off the field, play trivia contests, and sample products delivered by top sponsors including Coca-Cola, Wells Fargo, MolsonCoors, Dave & Busters, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Pernod Ricard, and others.

Join the fun at https://letshang.live, or contact LeslieAnne Wade at Lwade@wademediamanagement.com for more information.

Fresh off attracting more than 1 million viewers to its NCAA Women's Final Four viewing party, HANG, the award-winning fan-athlete community, is welcoming two women steeped in sports and digital marketing to lead a deeper push into women's sports programming, brand engagement and marketing.

Related link: https://letshang.live/

Phil Simms, Marshall Faulk, Michael Fabiano, Tyler Smith, Tony Richardson, Justin Watson Join HANG Draft Virtual Watch Party Sponsored by Academy Sports + Outdoors

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- Former first-round picks Phil Simms - the Super Bowl MVP and CBS Sports broadcaster, Marshall Faulk - the NFL Hall of Famer, and Tyler Smith of the Dallas Cowboys, along with fantasy football guru Michael Fabiano join HANG on Thursday, April 27 at 8 p.m. ET, to connect face to face with fans during early opening round action of the 2023 NFL Draft. Also joining live from the Draft's venue at Kansas City's Union Station will be former Chiefs great Tony Richardson and current Chiefs receiver Justin Watson, along with potential first-round picks sweating out the selections. Former Chief and current San Francisco 49ers receiver Chris Conley hosts along with Dallas broadcaster Lady Jade.

The HANG virtual watch party platform, offering free access, is averaging over 800,000 viewers per game and is recognized as the 2023 Cynopsis Sports Award Winner for best production innovation.

The event is sponsored by Academy Sports + Outdoors, and is accessed at https://letshang.live/.

Simms, who says Bryce Young of Alabama will be the #1 draft pick and suggests possibly CJ Stroud of Ohio State will be No. 2 says, "The third one will be interesting. Could it be Kentucky's Will Levis or Florida's Anthony Richardson? That's what makes it fun to watch and talk about. We know Bryce Young goes first as he canceled all his visits and that tells me he knows he is going first in the draft. If you are a quarterback in the NFL right now, you better keep working because there are a lot of good quarterbacks coming out and more right behind them."

About HANG:

HANG, winner of the 2023 Cynopsis Sports Award for best production innovation, is the leading celebrity-fan community, with 16+ million users taking part in virtual watch parties and IRL gatherings around major sports events including pro and college football, MLB, and both men's and women's basketball and soccer. Fans come face to face with their idols - star athletes, performers, and influencers - while everyone is watching the game on their own TV's. It's a dream come true for sports lovers, who get to have fun and frank conversations with their heroes about life on and off the field, play trivia contests, and sample products delivered by top sponsors including Coca-Cola, Wells Fargo, Miller Lite, Dave & Busters, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Pernod Ricard, and others.

Join the fun at https://letshang.live, or contact LeslieAnne Wade Lwade@wademediamanagement.com for more information.

Former first-round picks Phil Simms - the Super Bowl MVP and CBS Sports broadcaster, Marshall Faulk - the NFL Hall of Famer, and Tyler Smith of the Dallas Cowboys, along with fantasy football guru Michael Fabiano join HANG on Thursday, April 27 at 8 p.m. ET, to connect face to face with fans during early opening round action of the 2023 NFL Draft.

Related link: https://letshang.live/

Orange Blossom Classic Partners with HANG Media in Creating National Watch Party Featuring Exclusive Connections to Conversations with Star Athletes and Celebrities

NEW YORK, N.Y. /ScoopCloud/ -- One of the country's most historic college football games, the storied Denny's Orange Blossom Classic presented by Ready Life, is poised to continue shining light on its bright future. Fans are invited to join a national watch party, which includes the opportunity to discuss an array of topics while viewing the game with sports heroes and celebrities through online channel, HANG Media.

Kendra Bulluck is the executive director of the Orange Blossom Classic Committee (OBC). She is one of only a few women who own rights to a major sports property. Today she is thrilled to announce a partnership with New York-based, HANG Media. Together, they will provide a live game co-viewing experience in an effort to bring HBCUs and the community together. Fans will have the opportunity to mingle with HBCU legends and supporters, which includes current NFL players and entertainers. In addition, the partnership creates a new and national media platform for brands to connect directly with consumers through bespoke association with the OBC.

Founded in 1933 ran consecutively through 1978 and after a 43-year hiatus, the Orange Blossom Classic was re-established by Bulluck in 2021. Its historic importance in the college football landscape and HBCU experience is significant. 2023 marks the third year of the Orange Blossom Classic and the big game will be held on Sunday, September 3 at Hard Rock Stadium. With fans, alumni, HBCU students, and sports enthusiasts ascending on the city of Miami Gardens, this year's theme has been dubbed "The Reunion."

"At its inception, The Orange Blossom Classic created opportunity and inspiration under strict segregation laws. To see this property return on new stages with new platforms in what we trust is a new media world, is an honor and a responsibility," said Jon Klein, HANG ceo and co-founder. "We are thrilled to be working with Kendra and her team to elevate conversations around the Orange Blossom Classic and increase its connections with real people and supportive brands who honor and value the HBCU missions of education and opportunity."

"As the buzz around HBCUs continues to grow, we are proud to partner with HANG in hosting the watch party of the year. We are so proud to bring fans, legendary football players, and entertainers together in what's sure to be a memorable experience for all. Bringing members from across all spectrums of the community together is our top priority. This star-studded watch party is sure to do just that," stated Kendra Bulluck, Orange Blossom Classic Committee executive director.

Denny's Orange Blossom Classic Presented by Ready Life will also be televised on one ESPN's family of networks.

About Orange Blossom Classic:

Founded in 1933 by the son of Florida A&M University's president, J.R.E. Lee Jr. The inaugural Orange Blossom Classic welcomed 2,000 fans to the "blacks-only" ballpark in Jacksonville, Florida, where FAMU beat Howard 9-0 and successfully established the foundation of HBCU classics. After a 43-year hiatus, The Orange Blossom Classic was re-established in 2021 with a mission to enhance the exposure of Historically Black Colleges & Universities.

In its second year, the OBC attracts thousands of fans, alumni, school members, and family members, highlighting interest in HBCUs and their roles in educating aspiring professionals and developing future leaders. However, its main goal remains to raise scholarship funds for the participating schools for years to come, helping to support the knowledge and experience offered by the discipline, commitment, and dedication it takes to be a Historically Black College & University student.

About HANG:

HANG is the leading celebrity-fan community, with 13+ million users taking part in virtual watch parties and IRL gatherings around major sports events including pro and college football, basketball, baseball, and soccer. Fans come face to face with their idols - star athletes, performers, and influencers - while everyone is watching the game on their own TV's. It's a dream come true for sports lovers, who get to have fun and frank conversations with their heroes about life on and off the field, play trivia contests, and sample products delivered by top sponsors including Coca-Cola, Dave & Busters, Academy Sports + Outdoors, Pernod Ricard, Twang, and others.

Join the fun at https://letshang.live.

One of the country's most historic college football games, the storied Denny's Orange Blossom Classic presented by Ready Life, is poised to continue shining light on its bright future. Fans are invited to join a national watch party, which includes the opportunity to discuss an array of topics while viewing the game with sports heroes and celebrities through online channel, HANG Media.

Related link: https://letshang.live/