Pablo Torre Finds Out
The Athletic
Follow Pablo down the rabbit hole, beyond the game — every Tuesday, Thursday and Friday — on his award-winning video podcast, now part of The Athletic Podcast Network.You’ll get a deep-dive "talkumentary" episode, reported by Pablo and Curiosity Correspondents like Emmy-winning comedian Wyatt Cenac and Oscar-winning director Ezra Edelman, answering urgent questions such as: Are you smarter than an NFL quarterback? Does Giannis intentionally miss free throws to win free chicken for fans? And why does the FBI director play so much hockey? This storytelling has been honored by the Edward R. Murrow Awards and Peabody Awards. (Journalism!)Plus: Pablo hangs out with handpicked figures from sports, culture and politics like Sue Bird, Action Bronson and a U.S. Senator… plays Share & Tell with friends like Domonique Foxworth, Mina Kimes, Katie Nolan and Dan Le Batard (aka his boss)… and unveils the secrets of capitalism with David Samson and John Skipper on The Sporting Class.Follow PTFO…https://www.youtube.com/@PabloTorreFindsOuthttps://www.instagram.com/pablotorrefindsouthttps://x.com/pablofindsoutand subscribe to Pablo's newsletter: https://pablo.show Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Episodes
Mentioned books
9 snips
Dec 2, 2025 • 58min
Exclusive: The NBA Player, the Congressman and the Epstein Files
Tom McMillen, a former professional basketball player and three-term congressman, reflects on his surprising appearance in a notorious Mar-a-Lago video with Epstein and Trump. He shares his awkward encounters with Ghislaine Maxwell and reveals his basketball and political journey, including his legislative efforts in college sports. The conversation dives deep into the implications of the newly released Epstein files, with McMillen addressing his connections and perceived links to Epstein's black book, while maintaining his denials amid provocative questioning.
Nov 28, 2025 • 49min
The NFL's Secret Scammer and the $5 Billion Check (PTFO Vault)
Brian Davis, a former Duke basketball player and founder of Urban Echo Energy, dives into his controversial bid for the Washington Commanders. He shares his connections to the team and defends the legitimacy of his finances amid scrutiny. The discussion reveals a mysterious $5 billion bank draft potentially tied to a history of scams, including bizarre links to a seafood vendor and Filipino treasure legends. Davis's journey highlights how scammers can exploit ambitious dreamers, illuminating the murky side of high-stakes sports transactions.
Nov 27, 2025 • 46min
Fowl Shots: The Untold Story of Brickin' for Chicken (PTFO Vault)
Amin Elhassan, a curious journalist known for on-the-ground reporting, teams up with Thanasis Antetokounmpo, former NBA player and Giannis' brother, to unravel the quirky 'Brickin' for Chicken' phenomenon. They discuss the uncanny impact of free chicken giveaways triggered by missed free throws and how players have embraced (or even played into) the promo. Thanasis shares hilarious behind-the-scenes anecdotes about Giannis’ love for chicken and reveals his philanthropic contributions. This fascinating blend of sports and humor keeps listeners hooked!
10 snips
Nov 25, 2025 • 50min
Wilt Chamberlain and the Conspiracy Factory (PTFO Vault)
Gary Pomerantz, an author and historian with decades of research on Wilt Chamberlain, joins former NBA player and poet Tom Meschery, a teammate of Wilt, to explore the legendary 100-point game. They dive into the skepticism surrounding the game, fueled by a lack of video evidence and cultural myths. Gary shares his investigative journey, while Tom passionately defends Wilt's incredible performance, even debuting a heartfelt poem about the night. Together, they bring personal anecdotes and historical context to one of basketball's most celebrated moments.
Nov 21, 2025 • 50min
Share & Jailbait & Tell with Mike Schur and Jessica Smetana
In this engaging discussion, television writer Mike Schur and media commentator Jessica Smetana explore the scandal surrounding journalist Olivia Nuzzi. They unpack Nuzzi's reported emotional affair with RFK Jr. and analyze the fallout from her relationships with figures like Mark Sanford and Keith Olbermann. The duo critiques excerpts from Nuzzi's writing and connects her teenage MySpace persona to her journalism. The conversation dives into media ethics and the bizarre intersection of celebrity culture with serious reporting, wrapped up with comedic insights.
24 snips
Nov 20, 2025 • 1h 19min
All-American Grift: We Investigated Trump's Favorite Sports Troll
Madison Pauly, an investigative reporter at Mother Jones, dives deep into the controversial figure of Riley Gaines. She explores Gaines’s rise as a conservative icon post-college swimming tie and the political machine behind her. Discussions highlight the toxic culture within the Kentucky swim program and media's role in shaping narratives. Pauly reveals financial ties and motivations, with Gaines's story influencing state policies on trans athletes. They dissect legal challenges, including a Title IX lawsuit, and the impact on trans rights moving forward.
25 snips
Nov 18, 2025 • 46min
What the Hell Happened to Phil Mickelson?
Alan Shipnuck, a veteran golf writer and author of the unauthorized biography 'Phil', dives deep into the tumultuous career of Phil Mickelson. They explore Mickelson's transformation into a culture warrior, fueled by a craving for risk and recognition. Shipnuck shares anecdotes of Mickelson's early charm and media savvy while dissecting his recent controversies, including heavy gambling and his divisive persona. The conversation reveals how Mickelson's choices shaped his legacy, leading from golfing greatness to public scrutiny.
Nov 14, 2025 • 40min
The Invisible Hitmaker Behind the Soundtrack of Your Life
Bernard "Pretty" Purdie, a legendary session drummer, has laid down grooves for icons like Aretha Franklin and Steely Dan. He shares stories about his signature "Purdy Shuffle" and how it transformed music. Bernard reflects on the joy of supporting vocalists and the essence of being an invisible yet vital part of hit records. He discusses his approach to consistency, his experiences working with music legends, and the importance of teaching the next generation of drummers. At 83, his passion for rhythm and mentorship shines through!
10 snips
Nov 13, 2025 • 48min
The Sporting Class: Inside Google's $200 Million War on ESPN
John Skipper, former president of ESPN, and David Samson, ex-MLB executive, dive into the tensions between Disney and Google over ESPN’s availability. They explore the complexities of carriage disputes and the potential fallout of losing Monday Night Football. Insights on subscriber behavior and negotiation tactics unfold, while they debate whether a bespoke bundle could save the day. With a $20 subscriber credit and strategic positioning at stake, they ponder who has the upper hand in this high-stakes media showdown.
Nov 11, 2025 • 35min
Share & Goon & Tell with Desus Nice and Katie Nolan (NSFW)
In this lively discussion, Katie Nolan, a notable sports and culture commentator, and Desus Nice, a comedian with a personal background in the adult industry, dive into the intriguing world of gooning and online porn culture. They explore the sensations and communal aspects of gooning, including what makes it such a unique experience. The pair humorously unpack the implications of niche fetishes, the impact of algorithms in exposing users to erotic content, and the complexities of online communities, all while sharing personal anecdotes that bring levity to the topic.
