WHYY and PRX have announced an exciting new venture that is set to redefine sports storytelling in public media. The upcoming program, “Sports in America,” hosted by the accomplished journalist David Greene, is poised to make its debut on September 30, 2025. This new weekly public radio show and podcast promises to celebrate the myriad stories that unite people through sports, transcending generations, communities, and identities.
At the core of “Sports in America” is an earnest exploration of the personal narratives that shape the sporting experience. The program will focus not only on the highlights and stats but will delve into the transformative moments that impact athletes, coaches, and fans alike. Greene’s passion for in-depth storytelling resonates through the statement he made, emphasizing the importance of immersive conversations that reveal individual truths. By centering on the stories behind the games, “Sports in America” aims to articulate why sports hold such a significant place in American culture and life.
The inaugural episodes of “Sports in America” will feature a lineup of prominent figures from the sports world, including Baseball Hall of Famer Pedro Martinez and decorated NFL wide receiver Larry Fitzgerald, as well as notable voices like University of Pennsylvania swimmer Lia Thomas. This diversity of guests illustrates the program’s commitment to capturing a wide array of experiences and perspectives, enriching its audience’s understanding of sports as a fabric of society.
David Greene, known for his engaging journalistic style, has previously hosted NPR’s “Morning Edition” and the popular news podcast “Up First.” His hosting expertise makes him well-suited for this new role, promising to elicit candid, thoughtful, and stimulating conversations. As Greene described, there is a distinct void in public radio that “Sports in America” aims to fill—a show that blends the energy and passion of sports with the insightful depth characteristic of public media.
Bill Marrazzo, President & CEO of WHYY, emphasized the importance of sports in fostering community engagement. With over 60% of WHYY’s audience expressing deep interest in sports, launching “Sports in America” is a strategic move that aligns with the station’s mission to foster dialogue and inclusivity. Marrazzo’s comments highlight WHYY’s dedication to broadcasting content that resonates with the community, making sports a cornerstone of their programming.
Similarly, Stephanie Kuo, Vice President of Content at PRX, underscores the essential role of personal stories in connecting audiences with the world of sports. Kuo’s remarks point to the human aspects of the game—teamwork, perseverance, and excellence— that are fundamental not only to sports but also to the values shared by the public media.
In addition to the core program, audiences can anticipate a video component launching on YouTube in 2026. This multimedia approach will allow “Sports in America” to reach a broader audience, catering to varied preferences for content consumption.
WHYY, which has long been a vital public media outlet in the Philadelphia region, brings decades of experience to this new endeavor. The station’s commitment to engaging diverse voices and perspectives aligns seamlessly with the aims of “Sports in America.” As the home of acclaimed programs like “Fresh Air,” WHYY continues to elevate public discourse, and the introduction of this sports-focused show marks yet another extension of its dynamic programming.
PRX’s involvement further amplifies the reach and impact of “Sports in America.” As a leading public media distributor and podcast publisher, PRX has a strong track record of producing and distributing award-winning content. By joining forces with WHYY, PRX enhances the accessibility and visibility of “Sports in America,” ensuring that listeners and viewers nationwide can participate in these vital stories.
Overall, “Sports in America” stands to create a ripple effect within public radio and podcasting circles. By championing the narratives that connect us across differences and generations, it seeks to embody the spirit of community that sports can uniquely inspire. Through such storytelling, the program promises to celebrate human emotion, collective identity, and shared experience in a way that resonates deeply with audiences.
In conclusion, the forthcoming launch of “Sports in America” is an exciting development for the public media landscape. It represents a commitment to not only cover sports but to thoughtfully explore the narratives that shape our understanding of them. Listeners can look forward to a richly layered discussion that transcends the games themselves, ultimately enriching their connection to the world of sports and to each other. The program embodies a fresh perspective on sports storytelling, combining the passion of athletic pursuits with the introspective nature of public media, making it a must-listen for fans and newcomers alike. In a time where shared experiences are increasingly vital, “Sports in America” promises to draw individuals together, illustrating the universal truths we find within the stories of the games we love.
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