29 | SKY HIGH

Why Them? As satellite’s gatekeepers, York and Shull have made no secret of their respective fights against programming rate increases. In addition to various retransmission consent flares, bigger battles—such as DirecTV’s loss of Viacom channels for nine days last summer and DISH’s ongoing blackout last year with AMC Networks—eventually resolved themselves, along with the Voom litigation. Both high-profile disputes helped establish a reputation for these two as crisis negotiators. What we’re watching for next? How they will react to the Time Warner Cable-managed Dodgers RSN. Beyond skirmishes, this has been a big year for York’s homegrown programming interest. He oversees DirecTV content, which included the rollout of its first original scripted series “Rogue” on the Audience Network.

Shull

On a Saturday afternoon, you can find me… spending time with my family on Colorado’s beautiful ski slopes or riding bikes—with or without a motor.

This is the hobby I’ve been itching to try, but haven’t found time: I’ve been a motorcycle enthusiast for years now, most recently riding in the Mojave Desert. At some point in my life, I’d love to take the adrenaline rush from the ground to the sky by learning to fly helicopters. Now to find the time and money.

The other subject I wish I’d picked for my college major: If I could go back to my college days, I’d consider a degree in music. It’s more enjoyable and useful than philosophy, with the very rare exception of talking Socrates at cocktail parties.

I consider this person my mentor, and here’s why: Charlie Ergen. He taught me to forget the formal MBA 2×2 matrixes and to do what is right for the business—even if it’s unorthodox, unexpected and uncertain.

Favorite airport? The Hong Kong International Airport for two reasons: It actually runs on time, and it can get you to exotic, tropical locations within four hour flights.

The best piece of business advice I’ve gotten this year: Think long-term. Never sacrifice what is right for the long haul because of more immediate, quarterly goals.

I watch the majority of programming on this device: My job requires frequent travel, so I’ll often watch my favorite shows live on my iPad with the DISH Anywhere app. It’s as if I was home on my living room sofa. And yes, as DISH’s Chief Commercial Officer, this response is my attempt at free marketing.

The biggest lesson I learned from my kid(s) this year was… don’t worry, be happy. Life is a big adventure if you live it to the fullest.

Favorite vacation spot? Without question, my family adores this beautiful resort in Bali that sits on the sea cliffs with stunning waterfront views. I can’t share the name, because I’d never get another reservation there!

York

Apple or Samsung? Apple

Beatles or The Rolling Stones? Early Stones and late Beatles

The one thing I’d do differently if I could go back to high school: More engineering and computer programming classes.

On a Saturday afternoon you can find me… coaching Little League.

This is the hobby I’ve been itching to try, but haven’t found time: Pan flute

My peers would be surprised to learn that I… actually enjoy overpaying for content.

Appetizer or dessert? Appetizer

Film fest or music festival? Music festival

Favorite decade? This one

I watch the majority of programming on this device: 55” Samsung smart TV

Netflix or Hulu? DirecTV Everywhere

I wish Congress would just… untie all the networks.

Favorite vacation spot? Anywhere with my wife and kids. ?