Inside the Rings

Ski. Shoot. Lead. In this gripping episode of Inside the Rings, we sit down with Jack Gierhart, CEO of US Biathlon, to explore one of the most misunderstood Olympic sports. From his leap from US Sailing to leading America’s biathletes, Jack shares how strategy, storytelling, and high-altitude grit are transforming the trajectory of US Biathlon. Discover how athlete vlogs, mental toughness, and innovative pathways—from college skiing to military roots—are powering the next generation toward Milano-Cortina 2026. We dive into legacy-building, SafeSport progress, and the sport’s push for visibility in the digital age. Whether you’re a winter sports junkie or new to biathlon, this episode delivers an inspiring look at leadership on snow and the fire within Olympic dreams. Subscribe now and follow the journey at usbiathlon.org.

What happens when a fearless reformer steps onto one of the oldest stages in Olympic sport?In this episode of Inside the Rings, host Jon Hawkins sits down with Phil Andrews, CEO of USA Fencing, to talk about transformation, transparency, and a bold new media deal that could reshape how America watches fencing.From athlete equity to Olympic governance, Phil shares insights from his journey across sports—from weightlifting to fencing—and why storytelling and values matter more than ever in modern sport. Whether you're a die-hard Olympic fan, a young athlete dreaming of LA 2028, or someone curious about the future of niche sports in the streaming age—this conversation delivers both inspiration and impact.📍 Subscribe to hear more untold Olympic stories, and leave us a review to help more fans discover Inside the Rings.#OlympicLeadership #USAfencing #InsideTheRings #OlympicStories #TopSportsPodcasts #AthletePodcastStories #OlympicGovernance

🇺🇸 Olympian Chari Hawkins relives her Paris 2024 heptathlon journey 🏟️ — from the roar of Stade de France to the mental battles between events. She shares behind-the-scenes moments 🎥, the shift to marathon training 🏃‍♀️, and how her Instagram workouts inspire runners worldwide. A fun, motivating look at life after the Games! ✨#InsideTheRings #OlympicInterviews #TrainLikeAnOlympian #Paris2024 #OlympicStories

Get ready to hop back into the driver’s seat with world-champion bobsledder Kaysha Love in this high-octane episode of Inside the Rings! 🛷💨 We’re peeling back the ice spray to revisit her jaw-dropping 2024–25 season—from heart-pounding podium finishes and technical tweaks that shaved off precious milliseconds, to the mental grit it takes to conquer setbacks on the World Cup circuit. Then, we’ll fast-forward to Milan Cortina 2026, where Kaysha lays out her gold-medal game plan, reveals how Team USA is gearing up, and shares the secret sauce behind her training regimen.But that’s not all—stick around for our lightning-round rapid-fire, where Kaysha dishes on her ultimate push-start cue, must-have travel essential, go-to recovery tool, and more in just one word or phrase! 🚀 Whether you’re a bobsled fanatic or an aspiring Olympian, this episode is packed with insider stories, pro tips, and pure adrenaline. Don’t miss a beat—subscribe now, crank up the volume, and join us as we sprint toward Olympic glory with one of Team USA’s fiercest sled pilots! 🎧✨

From the icy slopes of Nagano to the high-altitude buzz of Beijing, Tom Kelly has been the voice behind the curtain—shaping how we hear, feel, and remember the Olympic Games. In this episode, we sit down with the legendary communicator, podcaster, and longtime U.S. Ski & Snowboard media maven to uncover the stories behind the stories.Tom shares wild behind-the-scenes moments, the art of interviewing athletes fresh off the podium (or the heartbreak), and why the best Olympic stories aren’t always about gold. Whether you’re an aspiring sports storyteller or just someone who gets goosebumps at the sound of an anthem, this episode is a masterclass in heart, hustle, and heritage.Plus: Tom reveals his favorite underdog, his most unforgettable Olympic quote, and what it really takes to capture a once-in-a-lifetime moment—on air and in memory.Connect with Tom Kelly:LinkedInInstagram🎧 Pull up a chair, hit play, and let the last word go to the Last Chair host himself.

What does it mean to dream of peace through sport? In this inspiring conversation, we sit down with award-winning author and Olympic historian George Hirthler, the literary voice behind The Idealist, to explore the life and legacy of Pierre de Coubertin, founder of the modern Olympic Games.From Coubertin’s visionary belief in the power of sport to unite the world, to the untold stories behind the 1896 Games, George shares how he became the guardian of Olympic ideals—and why they matter more than ever today.Whether you're a lifelong Olympic fan, a student of history, or simply curious about the philosophy behind the rings, this episode will rekindle your belief in the Olympic Movement’s higher purpose.🎧 Tune in for:The story behind The IdealistWhy Coubertin still inspires athletes and thinkersBehind-the-scenes insights into Olympic storytellingTeasers for future episodes on Olympic history and philosophy#InsideTheRings #OlympicStories #HistoryOfTheOlympics #OlympicValues #PierreDeCoubertin #GeorgeHirthler #OlympicPodcast #UntoldOlympicMoments #ListenToOlympians #SportDiplomacy

What does it take to design the Olympic sport program for a host city like Los Angeles?In this episode of Inside the Rings, we sit down with Jack Smith, Senior Sport Group Manager for LA28, to uncover the strategy, challenges, and vision behind one of the most important aspects of the Olympic and Paralympic Games: the sport lineup.From iconic events like athletics and gymnastics to youth-driven additions like breaking and skateboarding, Jack walks us through how LA28 is balancing legacy with innovation, honoring Olympic tradition while embracing the future.🎙️ Topics we cover:How sports are selected for the Olympic programThe balance between global legacy and local cultureWhat LA28 hopes to leave behind as its sport legacyJack’s own Olympic inspirations and favorite moments to comeWhether you're an athlete, fan, or behind-the-scenes strategist, this conversation reveals what building the Games really means.🎧 Listen now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your shows.#InsideTheRings #BuildingTheGames #LA28 #OlympicsPodcast #OlympicSportProgram #OlympicLeadership #RoadToLA28 #OlympicStories #BehindTheScenesOlympics #OlympicHostCities

What defines Olympic success? It’s not just medals.In this special episode, Jon Hawkins interviews Sarah Hirshland, CEO of the USOPC, on:The “Decade of Sport” (2024–2034)The rise of mental health in elite competitionYouth engagement through platforms like RobloxLA28 as the world’s largest peacetime gatheringWhy “the joy of effort” might be the most powerful Olympic valueAn inspiring, human-centered look into the heart of Team USA’s future.🎙️ Listen now on Inside the Rings.#InsideTheRings #OlympicMovement #SarahHirshland #TeamUSA #LA28 #Olympics #Podcast #BlogPost #MentalHealthMatters #GenZLeadership

In this episode, we look back at the US Olympic Trials and ahead to the Olympic Games in Paris.

Today, we talk about the Olympic Trials that just ended. We are amazed at the team the U.S. has heading to Paris. This will be a fun Team USA to watch. We also look ahead to Paris, the venues, the uniqueness, and a bit of the history of the games in Paris.

Welcome back to another exciting episode of "Inside the Rings," where we dive deep into the world of Olympic sports and the incredible athletes who inspire us all. Today, we're thrilled to have a very special guest joining us—Faye (Gulini) Thelen, a remarkable Olympian whose journey in snowboarding has captured the hearts of fans worldwide. Faye's story is one of passion, perseverance, and triumph. From her early days on the slopes to representing the United States on the grandest stage of all, the Winter Olympics, Faye has consistently pushed the boundaries of what's possible in her sport. Her dedication and love for snowboarding have not only earned her a place among the elite but have also made her a role model for aspiring athletes everywhere. In this episode, we'll explore Faye's experiences competing at the highest level, the challenges she's faced along the way, and the lessons she's learned both on and off the snow. We'll also get a glimpse into her life beyond the Olympics, discovering what drives her and how she continues to inspire others. So, grab your headphones and get ready for an engaging conversation with one of the most dynamic figures in winter sports. Let's welcome Faye (Gulini) Thelen to "Inside the Rings."

In this episode, we'll explore the current state of US Speedskating, delving into the strategies that are shaping the future of this thrilling sport. Ted shares his incredible career journey, offering insights into what it takes to lead and innovate in the world of speedskating. We'll also discuss the fascinating dynamics between Short-Track and Long-Track Speedskating, uncovering the unique challenges and triumphs each discipline presents. So, lace up your skates and get ready for an engaging conversation that promises to inspire and inform. Let's glide into the world of speedskating with Ted Morris!

Join us on this captivating episode of "Inside the Rings" as we sit down with basketball sensation Jimmer Fredette, fresh from his exhilarating experience at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. Dive into Jimmer's remarkable transition from traditional basketball to the fast-paced world of 3x3, and discover what it truly takes to compete on the world stage. In this episode, Jimmer opens up about his journey to the Olympics, sharing the highs and lows of his path to Paris. He candidly discusses the challenges of adapting to a new style of play, the intense training regimen, and the camaraderie that fuels his team. But the road wasn't without its hurdles—Jimmer reveals how he faced and overcame an unexpected injury during the games, showcasing his resilience and determination. Listeners will gain exclusive insights into the life of an Olympian, from the electrifying atmosphere of the games to the personal growth and lessons learned along the way. Whether you're a die-hard sports fan or simply love a good comeback story, this episode promises inspiration and a behind-the-scenes look at one of basketball's most dedicated athletes. Tune in for an episode filled with passion, perseverance, and the spirit of competition, and find out what the future holds for Jimmer Fredette beyond the Parisian courts. #OlympicJourney #JimmerFredette #Paris2024 #InsidetheRings

Join us on Inside the Rings as we sit down with Christian Klaue, the Director of Corporate Communications, Public Affairs, and Global Reputation for the International Olympic Committee. With his extensive experience and deep insights into the inner workings of the Olympic movement, Christian offers a unique perspective on the challenges and triumphs of organizing one of the world's most prestigious sporting events. In this episode, we explore his journey, the evolving landscape of the Olympics, and the critical role of communication and strategy in fostering global sportsmanship. Don't miss this engaging conversation that sheds light on the behind-the-scenes efforts that make the Olympic Games a spectacular global phenomenon. #InsideTheRings #OlympicInsights #SportsLeadership #Olympics

In this episode of Inside the Rings, we delve into the remarkable journey of Noelle Pikus Pace, Olympic Silver Medalist in Skeleton for Team USA. Known for her tenacity and spirit, Noelle faced a life-altering leg injury that could have ended her career. However, with sheer determination and on her own terms, she made an extraordinary comeback to the sport she loves. Tune in as Noelle shares her inspiring story, the challenges she overcame, and the valuable lessons she learned on her path to Olympic glory. This episode is a must-listen for anyone seeking motivation and insight into the power of perseverance. #InsideTheRings #NoellePikusPace #OlympicJourney #OlympicSilver

In this thrilling episode of Inside the Rings, we sit down with the dynamic Kaysha Love (@kayshajlove⁠), a rising star in the world of USA Bobsledding. 🛷✨ Join us as Kaysha shares her journey from the track to the ice, revealing the challenges and triumphs she has faced along the way. Discover the dedication and determination it takes to excel in this high-speed sport, and gain insight into her training regimen, mindset, and what fuels her passion for bobsledding. Kaysha opens up about her experiences as a black female in this sport, her aspirations for the future, and how she hopes to inspire the next generation of bobsledders. This episode is packed with inspiration, motivation, and a touch of Kaysha's infectious enthusiasm. Whether you're an Olympic enthusiast or just love a good story of perseverance and grit, this episode is a must-listen! 🎧 Tune in and get ready to be inspired by Kaysha Love's incredible journey on Inside the Rings! #InsideTheRings #KayshaLove #Bobsledding #Olympics

🎙️ Exciting Episode Alert! 🚨 Join us on the next episode of Inside the Rings as we chat with Aron McGuire, the CEO of USA Bobsled and Skeleton! 🛷✨ Ever wondered how one gets into the thrilling world of bobsledding? Or what it takes to rise to the top of the USA Bobsledding world? 🤔 🔍 Discover Aron's incredible journey and his vision for the future of the sport. This episode is packed with inspiring stories, insider insights, and a glimpse into the exciting world of bobsledding! 👉 Interactive Challenge: Before you listen, drop a comment with your guess: How fast do you think a bobsled can go? 🚀 The answer might surprise you! 🎧 Tune in, get inspired, and learn something new with Inside the Rings! Available on Spotify. #InsideTheRings #Bobsledding #SportsJourney #PodcastFun #Olympics

Mitt Romney was the rescue artist who came in to turn around the Salt Lake City Olympic games following a scandal that shook the Olympic world. Then five months before the Games were set to begin, the world was shocked again with the terrorist attacks on 9/11. In this conversation, we sit down with Mitt Romney to talk about how he handled this pressure, how he and his team made the Salt Lake City Games one of the most successful Winter Olympic Games in history, and what he feels is the legacy of the 2002 Winter Olympics.

In this episode, Jon sits down with Krista Parry of Visit SLC to reminisce about the 2002 Winter Olympic Games, having both worked for the Torch Relay team in various capacities.

🎙️ Dive into the excitement of Week 2 of the Paris 2024 Olympic Games with us on this episode of "Inside the Rings"! 🏅 From awe-inspiring athletic feats to the stunning venues that housed these incredible moments, we cover it all. Join us as we break down the final medal count and explore the preliminary business successes of the Paris Games. Whether you're an Olympic enthusiast or a casual sports fan, this episode has something for everyone! We'd love to hear from you! Share your thoughts, ideas, or topics you'd like us to cover by emailing us at insidetherings@gmail.com. Don't forget to leave a review and spread the word by sharing this episode with your friends and neighbors. Let's keep the Olympic spirit alive together! 🌟