Interrupted by Matt Jones – Episode 16: Pablo Torre
Release Date: August 5, 2025

In Episode 16 of Interrupted by Matt Jones, Kentucky Sports Radio Host Matt Jones engages in a deep and insightful conversation with renowned sports journalist and podcaster Pablo Torre. This episode delves into Pablo’s innovative approach to sports journalism, his groundbreaking investigative stories, and his perspectives on the evolving landscape of sports media.

I. Introduction to Pablo Torre

Matt Jones opens the discussion by highlighting Pablo Torre's impressive background, transitioning from his tenure at ESPN to founding his own media venture. Torre's commitment to unearthing compelling sports stories sets the stage for an engaging conversation.

[01:22] Matt Jones: "There are very few people in sports that are more interesting to talk to than the next guy. Pablo Torre."

II. Transition to Podcasting and Long-Form Journalism

Pablo Torre explains his motivation to pioneer long-form sports journalism within the podcasting realm, a space traditionally dominated by shorter, more superficial content.

[02:27] Pablo Torre: "It was a race that no one else wanted to run. And it's the one that is actually what I'm passionate about."

He emphasizes his passion for uncovering mysteries and providing in-depth analyses that go beyond the surface-level narratives commonly found in sports media.

III. Breakthrough Story: Bill Belichick and Jordan Hudson

One of the pivotal moments in Torre’s podcasting career was his investigative report on NFL legend Bill Belichick's controversial relationship with Jordan Hudson, a young woman significantly younger than him. This story not only garnered massive attention but also showcased Torre's ability to tackle sensitive and complex topics.

[04:14] Matt Jones: "I think you do. It's like a magazine on a podcast. I like that analogy."

Torre discusses the intricacies of the Belichick-Hudson relationship, exploring themes of power dynamics, media portrayal, and public perception.

[05:53] Pablo Torre: "Jordan Hudson is the most powerful person in his inner circle, to the exclusion of everybody else that had been, frankly, like, attached to him."

IV. Ethical Considerations and Public Reaction

The conversation delves into the ethical implications of reporting on high-profile scandals, especially those involving age gaps and power imbalances. Torre reflects on the backlash and the misogynistic undertones often directed towards the women involved in such stories.

[09:32] Pablo Torre: "She is absolutely a 24 year old in some key ways that basically have proven to be wildly self-destructive."

Torre advocates for a more nuanced understanding of the individuals involved, challenging the stereotypical narratives perpetuated by the media.

V. The Rick Pitino Investigation

Torre shares his fascination with the Rick Pitino scandal, detailing his comprehensive coverage of the case that unveiled Pitino's multiple unethical practices, including extramarital affairs and financial misconduct.

[30:29] Matt Jones: "I saw you had Shane Battier on and you were talking about how his ESPN career failed. And I think if you went back and looked at Shane Battier in college and with you would have probably said, though there's no more sure thing as a media analyst in the history of mankind than Shane Battier."

This segment highlights Torre's dedication to uncovering the truth behind influential sports figures, shedding light on stories that remain underappreciated by the public.

VI. Other Notable Investigations

Pablo Torre discusses a variety of other intriguing stories featured on his podcast, demonstrating his versatility and commitment to uncovering hidden truths within the sports world.

• Dennis Rodman and Karl Malone's Wrestling Antics: Torre explores how these NBA stars were involved in orchestrating wrestling events to promote their personal brands during the late 1990s.

[45:05] Pablo Torre: "And the best possible advertisement for that setup was literally the NBA Finals."

• Yankees Players Swapping Wives: An unbelievable tale from the 1970s where two Yankees pitchers allegedly swapped families and pets in a bizarre party scenario.

[47:29] Matt Jones: "These are movies to me. And it's crazy that people don't know. It's crazy that they're not bigger box office hits."

• TRL Rigging Allegations: Torre uncovers evidence suggesting that the iconic MTV show "Total Request Live" was manipulated to favor certain musical acts, undermining its authenticity.

[50:57] Pablo Torre: "It was an inside job, man. The most influential television show in the 1990s... they rigged it."

VII. Reflections on Sports Media and ESPN

The episode transitions into a critical analysis of the current state of sports media, particularly ESPN's shift towards "woke" culture and its impact on journalistic integrity.

[62:45] Pablo Torre: "It wasn't any of those things which are far more mundane and like a lot of other things that lots of people experience in the business of sports media, it was the fact that we dared to essentially insult the audience by shoving race down their throats."

Torre and Jones discuss the challenges faced by progressive voices within traditional sports networks and the financial motivations behind such cultural shifts.

VIII. Personal Anecdotes and Relationships in Media

Pablo Torre shares personal stories about his relationships with influential sports media figures like Tony Kornheiser and Bill Simmons, highlighting the mentorship and inspiration he has drawn from them.

[23:53] Pablo Torre: "He's the closest thing to Larry David in real life... unashamedly authentic."

These anecdotes provide insight into Torre's network and the collaborative nature of sports journalism.

IX. Conclusion and Future Endeavors

As the episode wraps up, Matt Jones praises Pablo Torre for his fearless journalism and the transformative impact of his podcast. Torre hints at future episodes, including a sequel on Rick Pitino, promising even more riveting content.

[68:34] Matt Jones: "Pablo Torre finds out. It is very... excellent. Thank you very much."

Notable Quotes

• Pablo Torre on His Passion:

  "[02:27] It was a race that no one else wanted to run. And it's the one that is actually what I'm passionate about."

• Matt Jones on Podcasting as a Magazine:

  "[04:14] I think you do. It's like a magazine on a podcast. I like that analogy."

• Pablo Torre on Ethical Reporting:

  "[09:32] She is absolutely a 24 year old in some key ways that basically have proven to be wildly self-destructive."

• Mike Torino on Media Integrity:

  "[62:45] It was the fact that we dared to essentially insult the audience by shoving race down their throats."

Final Thoughts

Episode 16 of Interrupted by Matt Jones offers listeners a comprehensive look into Pablo Torre's pioneering efforts in sports journalism. Through meticulous investigations and a commitment to uncovering the truth, Torre challenges the status quo of sports media. Matt Jones and Pablo Torre's candid conversation provides valuable insights into the complexities of reporting, the ethical dilemmas faced by journalists, and the ever-evolving landscape of sports media.

Whether you're a sports enthusiast or a journalism aficionado, this episode promises to leave you with a deeper appreciation of the stories that shape the world of sports.