This Week in Skating Podcast

This Week in Skating / 2026-27 Grand Prix Series Preview

In this episode, Daphne and Gina are joined by A Divine Sport editor Claire Cloutier to preview the Grand Prix Series, which kicks off this week in Angers, France. For more on the Grand Prix Series: https://isu-skating.com/en/figure-skating/events/isu-grand-prix/ ------------ This Week in Skating is hosted by Gina Capellazzi, Daphne Backman and Matteo Morelli is a cooperative project between Figure Skaters Online and Ice-dance.com. New episodes are available every Tuesday. Website: https://www.thisweekinskating.com Email: thisweekinskating@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisweekinskating Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/thiswkinskating Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinskating Thread: https://www.threads.net/@thisweekinskating Patreon: patreon.com/ThisWeekinSkating Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/this-week-in-skating-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This Week in Skating / What's the Grand Prix Series?

In this episode, Gina explains what the Grand Prix Series is for the new skating fans who may be watching the Grand Prix Series for the first time. This Week in Skating's Grand Prix Series Preview episode comes out on Tuesday! ----- This Week in Skating is hosted by Gina Capellazzi, Daphne Backman and Matteo Morelli is a cooperative project between Figure Skaters Online and Ice-dance.com. New episodes are available every Tuesday. Website: https://www.thisweekinskating.com Email: thisweekinskating@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisweekinskating Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/thiswkinskating Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinskating Thread: https://www.threads.net/@thisweekinskating Patreon: patreon.com/ThisWeekinSkating Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/this-week-in-skating-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This Week in Skating / 2026 Interview with Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko

In this episode, Daphne and Gina welcome back 2026 Olympians Christina Carreira and Anthony Ponomarenko to This Week in Skating. Christina and Anthony talk about the 2026 Olympic season, performing with Stars on Ice and the new season. ------------ This Week in Skating is hosted by Gina Capellazzi, Daphne Backman and Matteo Morelli is a cooperative project between Figure Skaters Online and Ice-dance.com. New episodes are available every Tuesday. Website: https://www.thisweekinskating.com Email: thisweekinskating@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisweekinskating Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/thiswkinskating Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinskating Thread: https://www.threads.net/@thisweekinskating Patreon: patreon.com/ThisWeekinSkating Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/this-week-in-skating-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This Week in Skating / Framing the Future: A Skating Photography Roundtable

October is Photographer Appreciation Month, so in this episode, Daphne talks with fellow skating photographers Melanie Heaney and Danielle Earl about how they got into skating photography and the things they have learned about the field throughout the years. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This Week in Skating / Hispanic Heritage Month: Jacob Sanchez

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, in this episode, Daphne and Gina talk with 2026 U.S. pewter medalist and World competitor Jacob Sanchez. ------ This Week in Skating is hosted by Gina Capellazzi, Daphne Backman and Matteo Morelli is a cooperative project between Figure Skaters Online and Ice-dance.com. New episodes are available every Tuesday. Website: https://www.thisweekinskating.com Email: thisweekinskating@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisweekinskating Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/thiswkinskating Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinskating Thread: https://www.threads.net/@thisweekinskating Patreon: patreon.com/ThisWeekinSkating Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/this-week-in-skating-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

• Transcript

This Week in Skating / Hispanic Heritage Month: Valentina Plazas and Maximiliano Fernandez

In celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month, in this episode, Daphne and Gina talk with 2024 U.S. bronze medalists and World competitors Valentina Plazas and Maximiliano Fernandez. ----- This Week in Skating is hosted by Gina Capellazzi, Daphne Backman and Matteo Morelli is a cooperative project between Figure Skaters Online and Ice-dance.com. New episodes are available every Tuesday. Website: https://www.thisweekinskating.com Email: thisweekinskating@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisweekinskating Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/thiswkinskating Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinskating Thread: https://www.threads.net/@thisweekinskating Patreon: patreon.com/ThisWeekinSkating Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/this-week-in-skating-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

• Transcript

This Week in Skating / Interview with Paul Ayer

This interview discusses bullying, mental health and suicide. Listener discretion is advised. In this episode, Daphne and Gina are joined by two-time Canadian bronze medalist Paul Ayer. Last week, Paul shared his story with Skate Canada about overcoming bullying, stigma, mental health and thoughts of suicide. If you or someone you know is struggling, call or text 988 in the U.S. and Canada to connect with the Suicide Crisis Helpline, available 24/7. To reach the Kid’s Help Phone text CONNECT to 686868 or call 1-800-668-6868, available 24/7.  Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

• Transcript

This Week in Skating / JGP, Kinoshita Cup and Bolero Cup Recap

In this episode, Daphne and Gina discuss the top news items as well as chat about the first three Junior Grand Prix events, Kinoshita Group Cup and Bolero Cup. Show Notes: https://www.thisweekinskating.com/2026/09/show-notes-sept-8-2026/ ----------------- This Week in Skating is hosted by Gina Capellazzi, Daphne Backman and Matteo Morelli is a cooperative project between Figure Skaters Online and Ice-dance.com. New episodes are available every Tuesday. Website: https://www.thisweekinskating.com Email: thisweekinskating@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisweekinskating Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/thiswkinskating Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinskating Thread: https://www.threads.net/@thisweekinskating Patreon: patreon.com/ThisWeekinSkating Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/this-week-in-skating-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This Week in Skating / Top 5 Newsmakers of the Week (Alysa Liu, Deanna Stellato-Dudek, fashion & more)

In this week's episode, Gina recaps the five newsmakers of the week, which includes news on Alysa Liu's future plans, Deanna Stellato-Dudek's new partnership, French Masters, U.S. Figure Skating's fashion event and Summer Sizzler and more. Plus, you'll hear from some of the skaters who attended the fashion event this past week. Show Notes: https://www.thisweekinskating.com/2026/08/show-notes-sept-1-2026/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

• Transcript

This Week in Skating / Season 5 Premiere

In the Season 5 Premiere of This Week in Skating, Daphne, Gina and Matteo talk about the off-season and share their early thoughts on the start of the new Olympic quad. Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This Week In Skating / Special Season 5 Announcement

Ahead of their Season 5 premiere, Daphne, Gina and Matteo share a special announcement. ---- This Week in Skating is hosted by Gina Capellazzi, Daphne Backman and Matteo Morelli is a cooperative project between Figure Skaters Online and Ice-dance.com. New episodes are available every Tuesday. Website: https://www.thisweekinskating.com Email: thisweekinskating@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisweekinskating Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/thiswkinskating Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinskating Thread: https://www.threads.net/@thisweekinskating Patreon: patreon.com/ThisWeekinSkating Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/this-week-in-skating-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This Week in Skating / Early July Mic Check (July 3, 2026)

It's July so it's the official start of the 2026-27 figure skating season. In this episode, Gina recaps the latest news, including the ISU reintroducing Russia and Belarus skaters into international events and competitions. Show Notes: https://www.thisweekinskating.com/2026/07/show-notes-early-july-mic-check-july-3-2026/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This Week in Skating / Interview with Ivan Righini

In this episode, Daphne and Gina talk with Ivan Righini, four-time Italian champion turned Olympic choreographer. Ivan, who choreographed the programs for Olympic champion Mikhail Shaidorov, is hosting a camp called Edge of Talent. To learn more about the camp, visit https://www.instagram.com/ivanrighini/ ---- This Week in Skating is hosted by Gina Capellazzi, Daphne Backman and Matteo Morelli is a cooperative project between Figure Skaters Online and Ice-dance.com. New episodes are available every Tuesday. Website: https://www.thisweekinskating.com Email: thisweekinskating@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisweekinskating Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/thiswkinskating Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinskating Thread: https://www.threads.net/@thisweekinskating Patreon: patreon.com/ThisWeekinSkating Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/this-week-in-skating-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This Week in Skating / 2026-27 Grand Prix Assignments

Merry Figure Skating Christmas! Daphne and Gina discuss the 2026-27 Grand Prix assignments that were announced by the ISU on June 16, 2026. They also talk about the announcement of the international competitions for the 2026-27 season. ISU 2026-2027 International Competitions Calendar ISU Grand Prix Selection Process Grand Prix Assignments: Men, Women, Pairs and Dance ---- This Week in Skating is hosted by Gina Capellazzi, Daphne Backman and Matteo Morelli is a cooperative project between Figure Skaters Online and Ice-dance.com. New episodes are available every Tuesday. Website: https://www.thisweekinskating.com Email: thisweekinskating@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisweekinskating Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/thiswkinskating Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinskating Thread: https://www.threads.net/@thisweekinskating Patreon: patreon.com/ThisWeekinSkating Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/this-week-in-skating-podcast/donations Read less Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This Week in Skating / 2026 ISU Congress Recap

In this episode, Daphne, Matteo and Gina discuss the ISU Congress that took place June 10-12 in Tenerife, Spain. Show Notes: https://www.thisweekinskating.com/2026/06/show-notes-isu-congress-recap/ ---- This Week in Skating is hosted by Gina Capellazzi, Daphne Backman and Matteo Morelli is a cooperative project between Figure Skaters Online and Ice-dance.com. New episodes are available every Tuesday. Website: https://www.thisweekinskating.com Email: thisweekinskating@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisweekinskating Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/thiswkinskating Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinskating Thread: https://www.threads.net/@thisweekinskating Patreon: patreon.com/ThisWeekinSkating Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/this-week-in-skating-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

• Transcript

This Week in Skating / Interview with Ethan Peal (Skating Storage)

In this episode, Team USA ice dancer Ethan Peal talks with Daphne and Gina about his new project, Skating Storage, a searchable database of ice dance elements and beyond to help athletes and coaches find inspiration, study elements and learn new things. Check out Skating Storage at: https://skatingstorage.com/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/skatingstorage/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

• Transcript

This Week in Skating / Off-Season Catch Up

In this episode, Gina runs down all the news and events that have happened over the last few weeks. Show Notes: https://www.thisweekinskating.com/2026/05/show-notes-off-season-catch-up/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

This Week in Skating / Interview with Daniel Grassl

In this episode, Daphne and Gina talk with 2026 Olympic bronze medalist Daniel Grassl about this past Olympic season, meeting Pope Leo and his plans for next season and beyond. Follow Daniel on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/daniel.grassl_official/ ———————————— This Week in Skating is hosted by Gina Capellazzi, Daphne Backman and Matteo Morelli is a cooperative project between Figure Skaters Online and Ice-dance.com. New episodes are available every Tuesday. Website: https://www.thisweekinskating.com Email: thisweekinskating@gmail.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thisweekinskating Twitter: https://www.twitter.com/thiswkinskating Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thisweekinskating Thread: https://www.threads.net/@thisweekinskating Patreon: patreon.com/ThisWeekinSkating Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy Support this podcast at — https://redcircle.com/this-week-in-skating-podcast/donations Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

• Transcript

This Week in Skating / A Chat with Ellie Kam & Danny O'Shea and Andrew Torgashev

In this episode, Gina chats briefly with 2026 Olympic gold medalists Ellie Kam and Danny O'Shea, and 2026 Olympian Andrew Torgashev before a recent Stars on Ice show. For more information on the U.S. Stars on Ice tour: https://www.starsonice.com/ For more information on the Canadian Stars on Ice tour: https://www.starsonice.ca/ Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy

• Transcript

This Week in Skating / Interview with Emilea Zingas and Vadym Kolesnik

In this episode, Daphne and Gina chat with 2026 Olympians and World bronze medalists Emilea Zingas and Vadym Kolesnik about their memorable season and their plans for the 2026-2027 season and beyond. Follow Emilea on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/emileazingas/ Follow Vadym on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vadym____kolesnik/ Follow Emilea and Vadym on TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@zingaskolesnik33 Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brands Privacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy