In a move that blends athletic inspiration with media innovation, Adam Rippon has been named the host of NBC’s new multiplatform podcast, “My New Favorite Olympian”. The series will premiere on January 15, 2024, and will run every Thursday through February 5, leading up to the opening ceremony of the 2026 Milan Cortina Winter Olympics on February 6.
Podcast Launch
The award‑winning podcast, which has already produced a seven‑part Paris 2024 season, will now focus on athletes who have overcome adversity, broken barriers, and committed to helping others. NBC’s decision to bring Rippon—an Olympic gold‑medalist figure in figure skating—to the microphone underscores the network’s dedication to showcasing stories that go beyond the scoreboard. New episodes will be available across NBC and Peacock, ensuring fans can tune in on any device.
Rippon’s Legacy
Rippon’s appointment is fitting given his own trailblazing career. He was named by “Time” as one of the “100 Most Influential People of 2018” after becoming the first openly gay man to compete for Team USA at a Winter Olympics in 2018. In a statement about the podcast, Rippon said, “Participating in the Olympics can be a wonderful platform for those who are committed to making a difference and helping others, and this series shines a light on them before the competition gets underway.” He added, “It’s a real privilege to contribute to this project and share the fascinating stories of several tremendous athletes who’ll be representing our country in Italy. I’ll be rooting for them all to bring home medals.”
Co‑Host Chase Cain
Rippon will not be alone on the show. NBC journalist Chase Cain will co‑host “My New Favorite Olympian”. Cain emphasized the depth of the athletes’ stories, noting, “We rightfully admire Olympians for their talents and the tremendous dedication that’s allowed them to rise to the top of their chosen sport, but there’s often so much more to their stories.” He continued, “I’m honored to help introduce some remarkable individuals whose personal character, passions and pursuits are just as compelling and inspiring as their athletic accomplishments as they take one of the world’s largest stages in February.”
Upcoming Episodes
Listeners can expect new episodes each Thursday from January 15 to February 5. Each installment will feature a different Team USA athlete, highlighting their journey to the podium and their impact off the ice or track. The series aims to give fans a deeper understanding of the athletes’ lives before the Milan Cortina Games begin. After February 5, the podcast will pause for the Games, then return in March as “My New Favorite Paralympian”, shifting focus to Paralympic competitors.
Previous Seasons
The seven‑part Paris 2024 season, hosted by 12‑time Olympic medalist swimmer Natalie Coughlin, set a high bar for storytelling. Earlier seasons featured Olympic legends Apolo Ohno (Beijing 2022) and fencer Ibtihaj Muhammad (Tokyo 2020), who served as hosts for the first two seasons. These seasons demonstrated the podcast’s ability to combine athlete interviews with broader themes of perseverance and community impact.
Watching the Games
Fans who want to see the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Games live can do so on NBC and Peacock. The network’s coverage will include both the opening ceremony on February 6 and all subsequent events, providing comprehensive access to Team USA athletes as they compete in Italy.
Key Takeaways
- Adam Rippon will host NBC’s “My New Favorite Olympian”, a podcast spotlighting Team USA athletes.
- The series launches on January 15, 2024, with episodes airing every Thursday until February 5.
- Co‑host Chase Cain will join Rippon, emphasizing the athletes’ personal stories.
- The podcast will return in March as “My New Favorite Paralympian”, focusing on Paralympic competitors.
- NBC and Peacock will broadcast the 2026 Milan Cortina Olympic and Paralympic Games live.
The partnership between Rippon, Cain, and NBC promises to bring fresh, inspiring narratives to viewers and listeners alike, celebrating the dedication and humanity of Team USA’s Olympic and Paralympic athletes.
