More Than a Game: Why Sports Podcasts Are More Successful Than Ever

This session is part of the 3-day Podcast Creator Summit at Apple Austin. Check out the full list of events.

In an era where connection is more important than ever, sports podcasting has emerged as a powerful platform that brings fans, athletes, and analysts together in dynamic and engaging ways. More than just game recaps and hot takes, sports podcasts create spaces for in-depth storytelling, cultural conversations, and passionate debates that unite communities across geographic and social divides. Whether amplifying local voices, building global fan networks, or fostering discussions on the evolving landscape of sports, podcasting delivers authenticity, accessibility, and a sense of belonging to fans everywhere. This panel explores the rising influence of sports podcasts and how they continue to shape the way we experience and engage with the games we love.

Join us for a free"Maker Mingle" reception following this Spotlight Panel — an informal meetup for panel attendees. Food and beverages will be served.

This is an in-person event and will not be livestreamed or recorded.

Skills: podcasting, sports media, community engagement

About the Speakers

Patrick B. Cherry (mod) is an accomplished media executive with over 15 years of experience working with top-tier partners across entertainment and sports. He joined Apple in 2018 as part of the Music Global BD team and later transitioned to the Apple Podcasts Creator Partnerships team, where he is responsible for managing relationships, fostering audience growth, and enhancing revenue opportunities for podcast creators. In addition, Patrick leads Talent Relations — developing the strategy and programs to support podcast creators across Apple’s ecosystem — and oversees strategic planning for the Sports category, building partnerships with major sports leagues, networks, and talent.

Landon Cotham is one of the hosts of Moontower Soccer, which is a podcast covering the MLS club, Austin FC. Landon and his co-host, Jeremiah Bentley, started podcasting about the team long before they even signed their first player. Moontower Soccer is known for in-depth tactical analysis and detailed scouting reports of new players. Landon and Jeremiah do their homework and keep the hot takes to a minimum.

Amira Rose Davis is an Assistant Professor in the Department of African and African Diaspora Studies at the University of Texas-Austin where she specializes in 20th Century American History with an emphasis on race, gender, sports, and politics. Recently named a Mellon Emerging Faculty Leader by the Institute for Citizens and Scholars, she is finishing up her book, “Can’t Eat a Medal”: The Lives and Labors of Black Women Athletes in the Age of Jim Crow (UNC Press). Davis is the co-author of the award-winning children's book, Go Wilma, Go! (Bloomsbury Press) with Michael Long. She has published articles in many academic journals and edited collections, and has bylines in the Washington Post. The New Republic, L.A. Times, and Slate, among others.

Juan Garcia is a producer and host for KUT News. He joined KUT News as a part-time on-air host in 2022 shortly before graduating from Texas State University. He now produces and co-hosts KUT’s daily news podcast — KUT News Now — and he co-hosts the podcast ¡Vamos Verde! about Austin’s professional soccer team, Austin FC. He has also contributed stories to the ATXplained podcast, and you can hear him hosting live on air on weekday afternoons on KUT 90.5. He loves collecting hobbies and spending time with his wife, Janie, and their two cats, Luna and Missandei.