In recent years, numerous professional athletes have embraced podcasting as a medium to connect with fans, share personal stories, and discuss topics beyond their athletic careers. This trend not only offers audiences unique insights but also allows athletes to build their personal brands and explore new professional avenues.
Athlete-Hosted Podcasts:
1. “All The Smoke” with Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson
Former NBA players Matt Barnes and Stephen Jackson co-host this unfiltered podcast, discussing basketball, culture, and current events. Their candid conversations with guests offer listeners an inside look at the NBA and beyond.
2. “Green Light” with Chris Long
Former NFL defensive end Chris Long covers a range of topics, from football analysis to entertainment and culture, bringing a well-rounded perspective to his listeners.
3. “New Heights” with Jason and Travis Kelce
NFL brothers Jason Kelce of the Philadelphia Eagles and Travis Kelce of the Kansas City Chiefs host this weekly podcast, providing next-level access to life in the league as it unfolds. They share insights on the weekly slate of games, discuss trending NFL news and sports headlines, and feature A-list interviews, earning them recognition as football’s funniest family duo.
Benefits for Athletes Starting Their Own Podcasts:
• Direct Fan Engagement: Podcasts allow athletes to communicate directly with their fans, fostering a deeper connection without media intermediaries.
• Personal Brand Building: Hosting a podcast enables athletes to showcase their personalities, values, and interests, contributing to a more robust and relatable personal brand.
• Control Over Narrative: Athletes can address topics on their terms, clarifying misconceptions and sharing their perspectives authentically.
• Post-Career Opportunities: Developing skills in media and communication through podcasting can open doors to careers in broadcasting, commentary, or other media-related fields after retirement from professional sports.
• Monetization Potential: Successful podcasts can attract sponsorships and advertising deals, providing an additional income stream during and after an athlete’s playing career.
The rise of athlete-hosted podcasts reflects a broader shift toward personal storytelling and direct audience engagement in the digital age. For athletes, podcasting offers a versatile platform to connect with fans, build their brands, and explore new professional avenues beyond sports.
Are you an athlete who needs help building your podcast? Reach out to Nile Innovative now.