Celebrities Who Could’ve Gone Pro (And Still Could)
Wait, they did what?
Instagram/harrystyles
Some people are talented… and then others somehow mastered fame and sports.
In this episode of Last Night’s Game, we’re diving into the most athletic celebrities, the ones who didn’t just pick up a hobby, but could’ve competed at a serious level (and in some cases, almost did).
From Harry Styles’ sub-3-hour marathon to Justin Bieber’s legitimate hockey skills and Geena Davis nearly making the Olympic archery team, this episode is packed with surprising stories that blend sports, pop culture, and conversation-ready insights.
You’ll also get:
Easy, repeatable conversation starters
A fresh way to engage in sports talk without needing deep knowledge
Stories that make you sound instantly more interesting
Because sports aren’t just about the game, they’re one of the easiest ways to build connections.
And this is exactly the kind of sports news you’ll want to spill.
The Last Night's Game podcast is here to take the awkwardness out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon, so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email us at theteam@lastnightsgame.com.
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Athletes Who Give Back To Their Community In A Big Way
Who doesn’t love good news?
(Podcast length - 5:20 mins)
If volunteering reduces depression and early mortality rates, these athletes will be the happiest centenarians.
Transcript
1. John Cena's heart is bigger than his biceps. The WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) wrestler's mantra is "Never Give Up," and that's what he's told the countless Make-A-Wish kids he's met with. There are many moments to make you smile, like when he had a tea party with one Make-A-Wish visitor decked out in his full wrestling regalia. Cena set a new Guinness World Record for granting the most wishes through Make-A-Wish at 650. No one, except for Cena, has ever granted more than 200 wishes in the foundation's history. TINY UNIFORM, BIG HEART
2. NBA Hall of Famer and broadcaster Shaquille O'Neal is known for his random acts of kindness. From buying an engagement ring for a fellow customer at a jewelry store to purchasing shoes for a 13-year-old boy with size 18 feet to a new car and food for a family in need, may Shaq's generosity inspire us all this holiday season to do more good. PAY IT FORWARD
3. International soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo is known for his cover model looks, supreme soccer skills and the big payday those bring in. While he's not afraid to write a significant check, he's also been known to roll up his sleeves, literally, as a frequent blood donor. The father of five has made a considerable impact on his young fans all over the world. In one instance, he invited a Syrian orphan who lost his parents in the war to a game and spent time with him. He has also paid for numerous children's lifesaving medical treatments. His signature move is auctioning off coveted trophies he's been awarded, with the proceeds going to charity. INTERNATIONAL MAN OF GOOD
4. From donating $43,000 prize money to relief funds for raging Australian bushfires after her Australia Open win to serving as a UNICEF Goodwill Ambassador, Serena Williams is the GOAT in giving back. Through UNICEF, Williams has been an outspoken advocate for education worldwide, but she never forgot where she came from. She and her sister Venus have been invested in causes like the Yetunde Price Resource Center, which offers healing-centered and trauma-informed programs to the residents of their hometown of Compton, CA.
5. Love him or hate him, LeBron James (NBA -National Basketball Association) has left the community better than he found it. While he has worked countless hours with organizations that support children, like Boys & Girls Clubs of America, his big project is the I Promise School in Akron, OH. The school serves over 450 at-risk third through sixth graders. In its first year, the year-round school saw growth among 90% of students who started the school year at least one year behind. The school engages the entire family with an on-campus Family Resource Center and regular events requiring parent participation to create a supportive environment both in the classroom and at home. CHANGING THE FUTURE
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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5 Athletes Who Turned Their Fame Into A Career In Politics
Exactly what you need to redirect from a dreaded political conversation.
(Podcast length 3:25 mins - the transcript is below)
These athletes quit their day job and big paychecks for a job in civil service which is just the armor you need to redirect the political conversation you'll undoubtedly face.
Transcript
1. Boxing legend Manny Pacquiao went from the boxing ring to the Senate floor in the Philippines. This career move was the logical move for him to start working on his singing career. He has released two music albums in his home country. He ran for president of his native Philippines in 2022 but lost. JOIN THE CELEBRITY TRAIN
2. Jesse "The Body" Ventura dominated the ring during his WWE (Worldwide Wrestling Entertainment) career. But tiny speedos, knee-high boots and baby oil had nothing on politics in the Midwest. Ventura served as the governor of Minnesota, where he won spending $250,000 to his competitor's $4.3M. He raised funds by selling $22 t-shirts and accepting $50 donations from his supporters. IN IT TO WIN IT
3. There are a handful of U.S. Presidents who played college sports. Most notably Gerald Ford. Ford had quite the football career at Michigan. He played on consecutive undefeated national championship teams in 1932 and 1933. His jersey number, No. 48, is retired by the university. Ford turned down offers to play in the NFL. Instead, he went to Yale to become an assistant football and boxing coach, hoping it would help him get accepted into Yale Law School. THE REST IS HISTORY
4. We all love Kate McKinnon as Jeff Sessions on "Saturday Night Live," but did you know that former Auburn football coach Tommy Tuberville defeated Sessions in the Republican primary? Tuberville is now serving in the U.S. Senate. DON'T FORGET TO VOTE
5. Steve Largent went from the University of Tulsa to an NFL (National Football League) Hall of Fame career to Congress. The Seattle Seahawks legend left a lasting impression in the Emerald City; then he won his seat in Congress in his home state of Oklahoma. After running on a conservative agenda as a Republican, he lost his bid for governor in the general election to a Democrat. YOU LIVE, YOU LEARN
HONORABLE MENTION: You can't have this list without the Mr. Universe, the California Governator himself - Arnold Schwarzenegger. But that seemed like a too obvious choice, and we wanted to bring you some outside-the-box thinking, hence the honorable mention.
Sports Curious, presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkwardness out of the conversation and help you join the sports chatter, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon, so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
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Dreaming Of A Polite Christmas?
Saving your sanity one awkward moment at a time.
(Podcast length - 5:26 mins)
We all have this idyllic vision of our family holiday with chestnuts roasting on an open fire while drinking eggnog and laughing in our Christmas sweaters. Now let’s be real, that only happens in the movies. Inevitably someone says something offensive about politics, insults the meal or gives a present that’s wholly inappropriate. When things take an awkward turn, here are a few ways to redirect the conversation to safer ground.
Transcript
AT YOUR OFFICE POTLUCK, YOU’RE STUCK IN A CONVERSATION WITH THE MOST BORING PERSON IN THE OFFICE WITH NO RESCUE IN SIGHT
They have to be passionate about something – pets, travel, their stamp collection or a good cause. Like John Cena, whose heart is bigger than his biceps. The WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) wrestler’s mantra is “Never Give Up” and that’s what he’s told the countless Make-A-Wish kids he’s met with. There are so many moments to make you smile like the time he had a tea party with one Make-A-Wish visitor, while decked out in his full wrestling regalia. Because of the orchestrated nature of his sport, he’s even gone as far as to weave certain moves requested by the kids into his “performance” during a matchup. TINY UNIFORM, BIG HEART
The holidays are a time of year to give, and no one gives more than these five athletes who give back to their community in a big way.
WHEN YOUR GRANDPA TALKS POLITICS, SENDING YOUR FAMILY INTO A TIZZY
You know what’s not controversial? Getting someone a gift they love. Athletes might be known for their moves on the field, but their gift-giving abilities are their hidden talent. How about a parka that dispenses Skittles, an Audi A7 or a handwritten note? HERE’S HOW ATHLETES SPREAD HOLIDAY CHEER IN THE LOCKER ROOM
You were the life of the party but now there’s not enough Advil in the world to stop your hangover.
Keep yourself in the game by trying this recovery routine. Former NBA (National Basketball Association) player Amare Stoudemire was known for bathing in red wine to help his post-game recovery so it’s no surprise that the former member of the Phoenix Suns and Israeli citizen created his own kosher wine. ZEN
From wine to tequila, here are more athletes you can thank for your next hangover.
WHEN YOU PUT ON YOUR BIG FAKE SMILE BECAUSE YOU RECEIVED YET ANOTHER PAIR OF UNDERWEAR
Be a good sport because it’s time for college football bowl game season. If you’re not one of the four teams playing for a chance at the National Championship (Cincinnati, Michigan, Alabama and Georgia), a bowl game is like a participation trophy but with great TV exposure and gifts. The most memorable bowl game names this season roll off the tongue like the Cheez-It Bowl, TaxSlayer Gator Bowl, the Tony the Tiger Sun Bowl and the inaugural Jimmy Kimmel Bowl LA Bowl. And yes, there used to be a game called the Salad Bowl. HOW LONG UNTIL WE HAVE THE SMOKE-A BOWL?
Links:
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
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How The Sports World Is Saving Mother Earth
From sheep lawnmowers to vegan-only concession stands.
(Podcast length - 4:15 mins)
How far are you willing to go to save Mother Earth? Well for these teams, the sky’s the limit.
Transcript
1. The Green Rovers, a soccer team from Western England, is leading the charge to go green. They claim the title as the only vegan football (i.e., soccer) club in the world. Since 2015, there have been no animal products for sale in the stadium. Some of the players eat non-vegan outside of the stadium (and there are paparazzi photos to prove it), but some have adopted the vegan lifestyle. The team is also the world’s first U.N. certified carbon-neutral sports club. NO MEAT PIES FOR YOU
2. From medals made of recycled consumer electronics to recycled cardboard beds, expect the Tokyo Summer Olympics to set the bar high when it comes to a sustainable Games. Anyone can reduce their carbon footprint by using fuel-efficient vehicles and existing venues, but Japan is taking it one step further using post-consumer plastic packaging collected throughout Japan to create the medal podiums. Not to be outdone, organizers are aiming to achieve 100 percent renewable energy for the electricity used to power the Games. DOING THEIR PART
3. Pocono Motor Speedway’s (NASCAR - National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) green efforts not only benefit the earth but you. The raceway runs completely on solar power and has sheep for lawn mowers. But they have an industry-specific problem – what to do with as many as 600 used tires after a race? Answer – recycle. The recycled residue from old tires is used in everyday items such as portable speed bumps, the anti-fatigue mat in your kitchen or playgrounds. WHERE THE RUBBER HITS THE ROAD
4. Home field advantage for some sports teams is an urban farm. Fenway Park, one of the oldest stadiums in baseball, was granted its LEED certification. The home of the Boston Red Sox (MLB) also has a rooftop farm that generates 5,900 pounds of produce annually to be used in the stadium. The home of the San Francisco 49ers boasts a 27,000-square foot rooftop farm that generates 500 pounds of produce monthly. BATTING FOR BROCCOLI
5. The Cleveland Indians were the first MLB (Major League Baseball) team to install a wind turbine to power their stadium. Others have since followed. Although the Indians can boast that their stadium is 100 percent powered by renewable energy from wind power. BLOWN AWAY
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
LIKE US? SHARE US WITH YOUR FRIENDS.
You Can Thank These Athletes For Your Next Hangover
Cocktails and sports? We’re here for it.
Photo: Instagram/Danica Patrick
(Podcast length - 5:54 mins)
Whether you’re ready to hit the town or looking to stay in, these athletes will have you saying, pass the Advil.
Transcript
1. There’s nothing Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson can’t do. From college football to wrestling to acting he’s now added the founder of Teremana tequila to his list of accomplishments. His tequila is one of the fastest-growing celebrity spirits in history. While The Rock seems to have the corner on the celebrity tequila market, look out for LeBron James (Lobos 1707) and Michael Jordan (Cincoro), both investors in the tequila market. GUAC IT TO ME
2. Former NBA (National Basketball Association) player Amare Stoudemire was known for bathing in red wine to help his post-game recovery. Hence, it’s no surprise that the former member of the Phoenix Suns and Israeli citizen created his own kosher wine. MAZEL TOV
3. Like a fine wine, Danica Patrick only gets better. The retired racecar driver has gone from breaking the glass ceiling in racing to wine. One might say her career drove her to drink, but she’s accomplishing a dream in retirement. No, really. Her Napa Valley vineyard Somnium means “dream” in Latin. FROM THE FINISH LINE TO THE GRAPEVINE
4. A glass of fine wine and announcer Jim Nantz have something in common. They’re both smooth and are likely to put you to sleep (in a good way in Nantz's case) after consuming for an hour or two. Nantz, the soothing voice of the Masters and NFL on CBS, is behind the Healdsburg, CA winery The Calling. Also known for their time on the golf course and in the wine world are veteran golfers Ernie Els (Ernie Els Wines) and Greg Norman (Greg Norman Estates). CLOSEOUT THE DAY AT THE 19TH HOLE (AKA THE BAR)
5. LeBron James doesn’t shy away from his admiration for wine (or apparently tequila) and neither do retired NBA players Dwyane Wade and Yao Ming. Ming is one of the tallest ever to play the game and the Shanghai native is fully invested in his St. Helena, CA vineyard. However, Yao Family Wines aren’t your daily drinkers at around $100+ a bottle. Dwyane Wade’s brand, Wade Cellars, resides in Napa Valley. Wade knew he always wanted to be in the wine industry, so here’s the chance to toast him with the fruit of his labor. WE’LL DRINK TO THAT
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of the conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We break down what's happening in sports in an easy-to-understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts. And if you have feedback or questions, you can email Amy at amy@lastnightsgame.com.
LIKE US? SHARE US WITH YOUR FRIENDS.
Our Favorite Trivia Questions
Impress the best and be prepared to be bamboozled.
(Podcast length 4:00 - transcript is below)
Whether you’re getting your social time in via Zoom or in person, these questions will stump even the biggest sports fan. And they’re sure to make you laugh out loud.
Transcript
Q: In 1920, the University of Texas football players had their mascot (a longhorn cow) at the annual sports banquet under less than ideal circumstances. What were those circumstances?
A: He was dinner.
The university couldn’t afford the upkeep of Bevo so they fattened him up and slaughtered him before the banquet.
Q: What is the Westminster Dog Show is named after?
A: A bar.
The “sporting gentlemen” who came up with the famed dog show used to meet up at the Westminster Hotel to talk about their hunting dogs. So when they started the organization in 1877, they named it after their favorite place.
Q: The very first Wimbledon was in 1877 and was actually a fundraiser for England’s favorite sport at the time. What was that sport? (Hint: it’s not tennis)
A: Croquet
The All England Lawn Tennis and Croquet Club was focused first on croquetbut then the good people of London began to fall in love with the new sport of tennis. The rest is history.
Q: This WWE wrestler holds the title for the most wishes (Make-A-Wish) granted by a single individual, with over 600 wishes.
A: John Cena.
The WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) star is the most requested celebrity by kids for their Make-A-Wish.
Q: College GameDay mainstay Lee Corso played football in college at Florida State. Who was his football playing roommate who became a famous actor?
A: Burt Reynolds (RIP)
The two played together at Florida State in the 1950s and Corso is said to have been a catalyst in Reynolds’ acting career. Maybe his football experience is what drew him to the role in the 1974 version of “The Longest Yard.”
There’s more where that came from in our extended version of the Last Night’s Game trivia.
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to take the awkward out of conversation and help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy to understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com or on social media. If you love us, make sure to leave us a review wherever you listen to your podcasts.
Like us? Share us with your friends.
THE 5 BEST ATHLETE DADS AND THEIR EQUALLY ATHLETIC KIDS
Family game night’s are probably a bit competitive.
It runs in the family.
Sports Curious presented by Last Night's Game, is here to help you join the sports conversation, even if you don't know the first thing about sports. We breakdown what's happening in sports in an easy to understand, fun way without all of the statistics and jargon so you never have to exit stage left when the chatter at the office, dinner table or a networking event switches to sports.
You can always catch us between podcasts at www.lastnightsgame.com.
[Transcript]
1. Laila Ali had big shoes to fill when she followed in her dad’s footsteps. Her father was the one and only, the “World’s Greatest,” boxer Muhammed Ali. A boxing champion herself, she's also a television personality and fitness guru who has appeared on shows such as American Gladiator and Dancing With The Stars. LIGHT ON THEIR FEET
2. NASCAR’s (National Association for Stock Car Auto Racing) dynamic duo was Dale Earnhardt Sr. and Earnhardt Jr. Papa Earnhardt died from injuries sustained in a crash at the Daytona 500 at the age of 49. Earnhardt Jr. won that same race three years later in 2004. Earnhardt Jr.'s grandfather was also a NASCAR driver and his nephew races in the NASCAR Xfinity Series. ONE FAST FAMILY
3. Basketball greatness runs in the family for the NBA (National Basketball Association) Champion and two-time league MVP, Stephen Curry. His father Dell, is the all-time leader in points and three pointers for the Charlotte Hornets. Steph’s youngest brother Seth plays basketball for the Portland Trail Blazers. They’re the first brothers to face off in the NBA conference finals. ONE OF THEM HAS TO BE YOUR FAVORITE KID
4. Her dad, two-time Hall of Famer Rick Flair, is considered one of the greatest professional wrestlers of all time, and wrestler Charlotte Flair is living up to his legacy. The college volleyball player turned WWE (World Wrestling Entertainment) star has been a trailblazer for women in WWE, with nine championships to her name. “The Queen” was also the first WWE star to grace the pages of ESPN The Magazine’s Body Issue. ROYAL FAMILY
5. You can’t have a list of famous fathers and their kids without mentioning the ultimate trio – the Manning crew. Dad, Archie Manning was a NFL (National Football League) quarterback for 15 years. His quarterback sons Peyton and Eli have both won two Super Bowls. Their third brother Cooper, is ‘only’ a partner in a law firm and a TV personality. Cooper’s son, Arch, is keeping the family name alive as an impressive high school football prospect. A CHIP OFF THE OLD BLOCK