Our 50th episode marks an exciting milestone for Brand Slam, and to celebrate it we welcome back one of our favorite guests, Kathryn Tappen of NBC Sports. 

This episode takes listeners inside one of the most powerful storytelling stages in sports: the Olympic Games. When the world tunes in to watch history unfold, broadcasters play a critical role in shaping how those moments are experienced, remembered and shared. Few understand that responsibility better than Kathryn. The Emmy Award–winning NBC Sports broadcaster has now covered seven Olympics, including the recent 2026 Winter Games in Milan.

With hosts Steve Rosa and Joe Kayata, Kathryn shares stories from rinkside of Team USA’s gold medal runs in both men’s and women’s Olympic hockey. The conversation explores the sustained dominance of the U.S. women’s program and the men’s historic first Olympic gold since 1980, while offering a behind-the-scenes look at what it’s like to document those moments as they unfold. Kathryn also reflects on what it takes to conduct a defining postgame interview in one of the most emotionally charged environments in sports, with 26 million viewers watching. Her conversation with Jack Hughes moments after his overtime game-winning goal quickly became one of the signature media moments of the Games. 

The episode examines the enduring power of the Olympic brand. With the 2026 Winter Games averaging 23.5 million viewers across broadcast and streaming platforms, NBCUniversal delivered the most-watched Winter Olympics of all time. The discussion highlights why the Olympics remain one of the most valuable storytelling platforms for athletes, broadcasters and brands alike.

Episode 50 celebrates both a milestone for Brand Slam and the timeless appeal of the Olympic Games. It is a reminder that the moments we remember most are not just defined by the athletes who win gold, but also by the storytellers who bring those victories to life.

Have an idea for a guest? Reach out at brandslam@addventures.com.