Today we’re joined by figure skating icon and Olympic gold medalist, Tara Lipinski. Tara's incredible journey began when she skated her way into the hearts of millions by winning gold at just 15 years old, making her the youngest to achieve the feat in the history of Olympic figure skating. Through the years, Tara has pivoted from the ice to the broadcast booth, where she and Johnny Weir provide engaging and educational commentary on the sport.

In this episode, Tara opens up to Kelly about her deep connection with food, from her favorite pizza dip recipe and go-to lunch order, to her evolving palate and culinary adventures in New York City (with reference to a particular confection we all know and love: Levain Cookies). They touch on how Tara avoided the negative pressures of body image in figure skating and how her diet has changed, especially during her 5-year fertility journey to becoming a mother. 

They also take a closer look at how Tara has championed infertility awareness by fostering open conversations about infertility and pregnancy loss. Tara shares the joy and gratitude she now experiences as a new mother, drawing parallels between the emotional relief of her daughter's birth and her Olympic triumphs.

Tara's infectious enthusiasm for trying new foods, her tips for introducing diverse cuisines to children, her role as a host on Food Network, plus her passion for cake flavors and baking (sans walnuts in her chocolate chip cookies!) are all on the menu in this episode of Sports & Forks. 

Timestamped Overview:

00:00 Intro

04:05 Olympic Figure Skating from young age

10:50 Focused on diet for fertility, now balanced.

16:29 Tara’s infertility journey 

21:15 Authentic friendship creates a fun sports broadcast family.

27:40 New York expanded Tara’s basic food preferences.

35:58 Blank canvas for endless flavor possibilities.

36:37 Quick Fire Challenge with Tara Lipinski