Uncovering Phil Mickelson's Misconduct Allegations, with Alan Shipnuck

We Visited Death Row for the Super Bowl. You Can Help Save This Fan's Life. (PTFO Vault)

Jul 7, 20261h 3mSummary

In this episode of Pablo Torre Finds Out, Pablo Torre returns to one of the most urgent stories in the show’s history: the case of Charles Flores, an inmate on Texas’ death row. Originally incarcerated in 1999 for capital murder, Flores has maintained his innocence for decades. The episode highlights the chilling reality that Flores was convicted largely based on testimony from an eyewitness who was subjected to forensic hypnosis—a scientifically questionable practice—long after the initial crime. Despite the lack of physical evidence linking Flores to the scene, he remains in solitary confinement, while the individual who admitted to being the actual shooter was released on parole years ago. Beyond the legal battle, the episode offers an intimate look at life inside the Polunsky Unit. Torre and Flores discuss the profound role of sports fandom as a vital tether to the outside world for incarcerated individuals. They explore how the Super Bowl and other major sporting events serve as rare, communal highlights within the isolating environment of death row. The discussion emphasizes the humanity of those behind bars and the desperate, time-sensitive fight to seek justice for Flores after his final legal appeals were denied.

The Sporting Class: Hydration Breaks, FIFA Trials and a Condo Full of Cats

Jul 2, 202649 minSummary

In this episode of Pablo Torre Finds Out, Pablo Torre sits down with former ESPN executive John Skipper to discuss the rise of soccer in the United States and the complex business history behind broadcasting the FIFA World Cup. The conversation reflects on Skipper’s strategic decision to secure rights for the tournament back in 2005, a move born from his belief that soccer would eventually become a dominant sport in America. The two explore the surreal and often corrupt nature of FIFA’s leadership during that era, including a memorable, behind-the-scenes look at the high-stakes negotiations held within Trump Tower alongside figures like Chuck Blazer—the colorful, controversial official known for his eccentric lifestyle and eventual role as a federal informant. Skipper discusses the transition from ESPN’s ambitious, immersive coverage to the current landscape of sports media. Beyond the business maneuvering, they touch on the personal side of the industry, acknowledging the emotional weight of recent losses and the necessity of keeping professional passion in perspective. It is a candid reflection on ambition, the evolution of sports broadcasting, and the ultimate validation of a long-term vision.

“Please Enjoy It Or You Are Fired”: Inside PTFO, with Dan Le Batard

Jun 30, 202642 minSummary

In this introspective episode of Pablo Torre Finds Out, host Pablo Torre welcomes Dan Le Batard for a deeply personal conversation that transcends typical sports commentary. The two discuss the intersection of professional ambition, the heavy burden of grief, and the struggle to find genuine joy in a career that demands constant output. Le Batard challenges Torre to consider the sustainability of his relentless pace, urging him to accept his success and find ways to enjoy his work without falling into the trap of insatiable ambition. They explore the vulnerability required in the modern media landscape, reflecting on how their shared experiences—ranging from the loss of loved ones to the shifting tides of the journalism industry—have shaped their perspectives on success. The discussion also touches upon the relationship between a creator and their audience. Le Batard argues that Torre has already established an intimate, trusting connection with his listeners and suggests that he can lower his own impossibly high standards without sacrificing quality. Ultimately, the episode serves as a poignant reminder that while professional achievements are significant, they are secondary to the human bonds and personal peace that make life worth living.

The Missing Ambassador of the World Cup

Jun 26, 202649 minSummary

In this episode of Pablo Torre Finds Out, the host explores the legacy of the late journalist Grant Wahl, celebrated as the preeminent American soccer writer. The discussion highlights Wahl’s lifelong mission to transform soccer from an overlooked pastime in the United States into a mainstream cultural phenomenon. Through his work at Sports Illustrated and later as an independent journalist, Wahl served as both an evangelist for the sport and a rigorous investigator of its governing bodies. A focal point of the episode is Wahl’s audacious 2011 campaign for the FIFA presidency. By running against the long-standing incumbent Sepp Blatter, Wahl aimed to shine a light on the systemic corruption and lack of transparency within FIFA. Although unsuccessful, his platform helped trigger significant rule changes and predated the major criminal indictments that would eventually dismantle the organization’s leadership. The episode also revisits Wahl’s final reporting in Qatar, where he investigated the human rights abuses and the treatment of the LGBTQ community during the 2022 World Cup. Ultimately, the podcast serves as a moving tribute to Wahl’s integrity, his unwavering pursuit of the truth, and his profound impact on sports journalism.

What the World Cup Can Teach the American Fan, with John Green and Daniel Alarcón

Jun 25, 202640 minSummary

In this episode of Pablo Torre Finds Out, host Pablo Torre is joined by long-time friends, novelist John Green and journalist Daniel Alarcón, to explore the deep cultural and personal significance of the World Cup. The conversation moves beyond the sport itself, examining how soccer acts as a rare global touchstone that connects people across borders and ideologies. Green and Alarcón share insights into their unique relationship with the game—Green as the passionate, fan-owner of AFC Wimbledon and Alarcón as a Peruvian-American with a profound cultural connection to football’s role in Latin American identity. They discuss the nuances of sports fandom, the complications of celebrity culture in professional athletics, and the emotional power that national teams hold for diasporic communities. The hosts also touch upon the tension between the beautiful, unifying communal experience of the World Cup and the systemic corruption often associated with its governance. Ultimately, the discussion highlights why sports remain one of the few remaining "big tents" in an increasingly siloed world, capable of providing moments of genuine visibility and collective meaning for nations both large and small.

Sarah Jessica Parker on the Seductive Power of Sports and the City

Jun 23, 202646 minSummary

In this episode of Pablo Torre Finds Out, actor and producer Sarah Jessica Parker joins Pablo Torre for a wide-ranging conversation that bridges the worlds of high-stakes professional sports and the realities of life as a long-term New Yorker. Parker, a self-described fan of long-form, deep-dive journalism, discusses her unexpected transition from an observer of the news to a guest on the program. The hosts delve into the "seductive power" of the current New York sports landscape, reflecting on how a shared passion for a winning team can unify a city. Parker shares her perspective on the human element of sports, drawing parallels between the discipline required for a theatrical performance and the physical and mental intensity of elite athletes. The conversation explores the unique, often paradoxical nature of New York City, discussing what it truly means to be a New Yorker and how one balances the demands of public fame with the desire for a normal, authentic urban life. Throughout the episode, Parker and Torre touch on the evolution of celebrity, the importance of maintaining professional curiosity, and the enduring, sometimes challenging, appeal of living in the city.

USMNT's Tim Weah on World Cup Dreams, the American Idea... and Wu-Tang

Jun 19, 202641 minSummary

In this episode of Pablo Torre Finds Out, host Pablo Torre sits down with USMNT forward Tim Weah to discuss his experience at the World Cup and the unique identity of the modern American soccer team. Weah reflects on the squad’s dominant performance against Paraguay, noting the intense pride he feels playing for a group that embodies the multicultural fabric of the United States. Beyond the pitch, the conversation explores Weah’s personal history, including his upbringing in New York City and his deep connection to his Liberian and Jamaican roots. Weah discusses the inspiration he draws from his father, former Liberian president George Weah, and the importance of representation in sports. The two also touch on the lighter side of locker room life, including Weah’s playful banter with teammates about the New York Knicks and his appreciation for music culture. Ultimately, the discussion highlights how the U.S. team serves as a reflection of the American ideal—a place where athletes from diverse backgrounds unite to represent the country while honoring their heritage and ancestors with every match.

The (Summer School) Sporting Class: Sex, Dolan and Contract Haircuts

Jun 18, 202649 minSummary

In this episode, the hosts analyze the intersection of team ownership, player management, and the enduring influence of pre-game speeches. The conversation centers on a recently surfaced video of New York Knicks owner James Dolan addressing his team before their playoff run. The panel discusses the effectiveness of such motivational tactics, questioning whether an owner’s presence and promises of "Spartan-like" sacrifice actually translate to on-court success or if these speeches are primarily intended to shape the owner’s own legacy. Drawing on their respective backgrounds in team management and the NFL, the hosts compare Dolan’s approach to the traditional roles of owners like George Steinbrenner. They explore the nuances of organizational hierarchies, the reality of front-office meddling, and the often-fraught relationship between ownership and players. Beyond the tactical debate, the discussion pivots to how a championship title can fundamentally alter an owner’s reputation, regardless of previous controversies. The dialogue offers a candid, humorous look at the "sporting class," the realities of life in professional sports organizations, and how proximity to power shapes one’s perspective on leadership and legacy.

"Reverse 9/11": Celebrating These Knicks Title Vibes, with Desus Nice

Jun 17, 202650 minSummary

In this episode of Pablo Torre Finds Out, host Pablo Torre is joined by comedian and writer Desus Nice for a spirited exploration of the cultural phenomenon surrounding the New York Knicks' recent championship victory. The conversation captures the unique emotional landscape of a city currently vibrating with sports-fueled euphoria. Desus and Torre discuss how the team’s success has transformed the mood in New York, describing the feeling as a bizarrely positive reverse 9/11 where the city’s usual cynicism has been replaced by a sense of community and infectious joy. The pair dissect the legend of the current Knicks roster, touching on everything from Jalen Brunson’s specific bodega order to the "cool factor" of Mikal Bridges and the stoic, weed-induced calm of OG Anunoby. They also reflect on the historic nature of the team's playoff comeback, the iconic halftime performance by the Wu-Tang Clan, and the shared, almost spiritual experience of fans watching the games together. Through personal anecdotes and commentary on New York life, the duo celebrates the collective hysteria that has united the city in a way that feels both historic and unforgettable.

UFC at the White House: How Dana White and Donald Trump Cashed In

Jun 12, 202646 minSummary

In this episode of Pablo Torre Finds Out, the host sits down with MMA journalist Luke Thomas to deconstruct the geopolitical and business implications of a UFC event held on the White House grounds. Rather than focusing on the spectacle of the fighting ring on the South Lawn, the conversation examines the event as the formalization of a long-standing partnership between the UFC and the Trump administration. Thomas argues that the event is a prime example of crony capitalism and the blurring of lines between public and private interests. The discussion highlights how the UFC leverages government connections and site fees to bolster its business, comparing it to international sports diplomacy efforts seen in other nations. The hosts also scrutinize the strategic use of military personnel as a curated audience to ensure a high-energy atmosphere, contrasting this with the needs of veterans who often go unsupported. Ultimately, the episode challenges listeners to look past the branding of a friendship between Dana White and Donald Trump, suggesting instead that their relationship is a calculated, mutually beneficial arrangement that utilizes government resources to secure long-term profit and cultural influence for both parties.