A curated list of former professional athletes who have leveraged their post-playing careers to build influential media brands through podcasting. These hosts bring unique insights, celebrity access, and deep industry knowledge to their audiences, often featuring high-profile guests and honest discussions about the sports world.
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Hosted by former ESPN executive Bill Simmons, this long-running show covers everything from sports to pop culture. Although Simmons is primarily a media executive now, his roots are deeply embedded in sports journalism, and he frequently discusses his time in the industry with a candid, entertaining style that has influenced modern sports media.
Retired WNBA star Tonya Lewis Lee co-hosts this award-winning podcast that explores mental health through the lens of athletics. The show features honest conversations with athletes and celebrities about trauma, healing, and personal growth, offering a supportive and insightful look into the psychological aspects of sports performance and life.
While Rich Eisen is a broadcaster, he frequently highlights and interviews retired athletes who have become podcasters or media personalities. The show’s extensive library includes conversations with legends like Michael Strahan and Jerry Seitz, providing a platform that amplifies the voices of former players in the media landscape.
Hosted by retired NFL player Rob Gronkowski and comedian PFT Commander, this massively popular podcast blends humor with serious sports analysis. Gronkowski’s transition from Super Bowl champion to media personality showcases how retired athletes can maintain massive popularity and influence through unscripted, entertaining content.
Former NBA player Pau Gasol hosts this thoughtful podcast where he engages in deep conversations with various figures in sports and entertainment. Gasol uses his platform to discuss leadership, global perspectives, and the nuances of professional athletics, offering a refined and intellectual take on the sports world.
Retired NBA legends Shaquille O'Neal, Karl Malone, and Kenny Smith bring decades of experience to this hilarious and insightful show. Their camaraderie and contrasting personalities create engaging content that appeals to both hardcore basketball fans and general audiences, demonstrating the power of retired stars collaborating in media.
Though Pat McAfee is still active in media, he often features retired athletes as guests or co-hosts. The show’s format allows former players to share untold stories and humorous anecdotes, highlighting the vibrant community of ex-athletes who have found second careers in broadcasting and podcasting.
Former MLB player Chris Young co-hosts this show that dives deep into baseball history and current events. With his background as a professional athlete, Young provides unique perspectives on the game’s past and present, appealing to fans who appreciate detailed analysis and nostalgic storytelling from a former insider.
Hosted by former NFL quarterback Aaron Rodgers, this podcast explores rugby, spirituality, and the intersection of sports and consciousness. Rodgers’ unique perspective as a retired pro athlete allows him to discuss alternative training methods and philosophical topics, attracting a diverse audience interested in holistic performance.
While not exclusively sports-focused, this show frequently features retired athletes discussing business, mental health, and life after fame. The high-profile guests include former footballers and rugby players who share their journeys of reinvention, providing valuable insights into the challenges and opportunities facing retired professionals.
Carolla often features retired athletes who have transitioned into media or other careers. His interviews with former players provide a platform for them to discuss their post-sports lives, offering fans a glimpse into the personal stories and struggles of athletes after they leave the field.
A spin-off of The Pat McAfee Show, this podcast features retired athletes and celebrities in a more casual, unscripted setting. The format allows for deeper dives into personal stories and off-field experiences, highlighting the versatility of retired players in different media formats.
A video podcast version of the popular audio show, featuring Bill Simmons and guests including retired athletes. The visual format allows for a more dynamic experience, showcasing interactions between media personalities and former players in a relaxed, conversational environment.
Retired sports broadcaster Tony Kornheiser brings his witty and insightful style to podcasting, often featuring retired athletes as guests. His show covers a wide range of topics, from sports history to political commentary, offering a unique blend of humor and analysis that appeals to a broad audience.
While Dan Patrick is a broadcaster, the show frequently features retired athletes who have become media personalities. The program provides a platform for these ex-players to share their insights and stories, highlighting the ongoing influence of retired stars in the sports media landscape.
A podcast extension of The Rich Eisen Show, featuring exclusive conversations with retired athletes and media figures. The show allows for in-depth discussions on topics that may not fit the live broadcast, providing fans with more personal and detailed insights from former pros.
An archive of episodes from ESPN’s SportsNation featuring Bill Simmons and retired athletes. The show offers a nostalgic look at early sports media, with conversations that highlight the evolving role of former players in broadcasting and digital media.
A late-night podcast format featuring retired athletes and guests in a relaxed, conversational setting. The show provides a platform for former players to share humorous and heartfelt stories, showcasing the diverse talents and personalities of athletes after their playing careers end.
A podcast series where Bill Simmons and guests, including retired athletes, break down movies they love. The show highlights the crossover appeal of sports personalities in entertainment, offering fans a chance to see their favorite ex-players in a completely different and entertaining context.
An audio-only version of The Rich Eisen Show, featuring extensive interviews with retired athletes and sports figures. The podcast format allows for deeper, more unhurried conversations, providing listeners with comprehensive insights into the lives and careers of former pros.