Embarking on their podcast journey in September 2022, Travis and Jason Kelce could hardly have foreseen the meteoric rise that awaited their show, New Heights.
As its name suggests, New Heights soared to become the premier sports podcast globally within just two years. Yet, the inaugural episode unveiled a raw and unpolished start, showcasing the Kelces’ evolution behind the mic.
The premiere of New Heights, now boasting over 340,000 views on YouTube, epitomized the trial-and-error process inherent in new ventures. With a format structured around 12 questions, the brothers embarked on what would become a cornerstone of their bond and fanbase.
“Welcome to New Heights,” Travis greeted, donning a Cincinnati Bearcats baseball jersey, his grin evident as he introduced the Jukes original show presented by Wave Sports and Entertainment. Despite their Super Bowl triumphs, the Kelces’ comfort on the podcast differed from the gridiron’s glare.
Travis stumbled through the show’s premise, explaining New Heights’ dual significance. It symbolized their foray into a new arena, while also honoring their roots in Cleveland Heights, Ohio.
Their banter extended beyond football, with Jason recounting an unconventional highlight from his offseason—a bull castration in Missouri. Amidst laughter, Jason vividly described the surreal experience, injecting the episode with unexpected humor.
The conversation meandered, from facing football icons to discussing their upcoming NFL seasons. Their camaraderie shone through as they bantered about Jalen Hurts, Andy Reid, and compared Super Bowl rings, captivating listeners for the hour-long episode.
A year later, New Heights attained greater heights as Travis’s relationship with pop sensation Taylor Swift garnered widespread attention. Despite initial mishaps, their romance added a new dimension to the podcast, drawing fans eagerly awaiting their weekly breakdown of NFL happenings.
Now topping Spotify and Apple’s sports podcast charts, New Heights not only entertains but also strengthens the Kelce brothers’ bond. Jason acknowledged the podcast’s role in rekindling their connection, bridging the gap that time and distance had created since college.
Reflecting on their journey, Jason mused, “It has been fun…talking to my brother…since college.” Through New Heights, the Kelces not only conquered the podcast realm but also found a platform to deepen their fraternal bond, one episode at a time.