Professional athletes share perspective through podcasts
Recently, professional athletes have increasingly turned to podcasting as a platform to share their perspectives, insights and opinions. With the rise of digital media, these podcasts have become a significant trend within the sports industry. But why are athletes starting these podcasts, what social impact do they have, and how do they affect their teams and leagues?
One of the primary reasons athletes launch podcasts is to create a direct line of communication with their fan base. Regular media often filters and interprets athletes' words, leading to potential misunderstandings or misinterpretations. By hosting their own podcasts, athletes can control the narrative and provide their authentic voices and opinions. For many athletes, it's an opportunity to share personal experiences and discuss their journeys while delving deeper into topics that matter to them beyond the confines of their sport. Current NFL tight end Travis Kelce and his older brother and former NFL center Jason Kelce, who co-host the podcast “New Heights”, are just two of the many athletes who have gone down the podcasting path.
Travis Kelce recently made headlines during an episode of “New Heights” where he discussed the Kansas City Chiefs game against the Houston Texans. He candidly addressed the controversial penalties that were called during the match, expressing frustration over the impact these decisions had on the game. Kelce highlighted how crucial moments were overshadowed by questionable officiating, sparking a broader conversation about the role of referees in the sport. By sharing his thoughts he not only provided fans with a behind-the-scenes look at the game but also opened the door for discussions about accountability and fairness in officiating games.
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The social impact of athlete-driven podcasts extends beyond just game commentary or referee calling out. These platforms allow players to discuss mental health, community engagement and personal challenges. Samo football and soccer player Johnny Rusler (’27) shares how impactful sports podcasts are to the sports community and how beneficial they are to sports fans.
“I've watched many sports podcasts. They are a fun way for me to stay updated with the sports community. They help me learn athletes' mindsets and also shape the type of athlete I want to be myself,” Rusler said. “It’s also motivating to hear players talk about things that are also happening in my life. It makes me believe I can pursue sports on a deeper level.”
The podcasts humanize players and allow fans to see them as more than just athletes but individuals with complex lives and perspectives. This connection with fans can lead to increased support for various causes, creating a ripple effect that extends into the community. It also can tremendously impact the amount of people that start tuning into a certain sport, solely based on their love for the player.
Podcasts can also influence team dynamics and league policies. When athletes voice concerns about officiating, player safety, or social justice issues, it often sparks conversations within teams and leagues, prompting leaders to address these topics. This is extremely beneficial because it gives the audience a chance to finally have a say in what they get to know about their favorite sports and it also shows how important it is to communicate with fans. As athletes leverage their platforms, the landscape of sports continues to evolve, showcasing the power of their voices in shaping the future of the industry.