Celebrity podcasts have become a fixture in today’s media landscape. Athletes, actors, and influencers flock to the format, eager to control their own narratives. I’ve noticed these shows have become the new press conference—minus any tough questions.

These shows often feature predictable guest lineups. Fellow athletes. Entertainment figures. Occasionally, business moguls.

Former NBA stars typically stick to basketball-centric conversations with league insiders.

But Dwight Howard just broke that mold. The eight-time NBA All-Star revealed his dream podcast guest for his show “Above The Rim With DH 12” is none other than President Donald Trump.

Howard’s podcast recently joined the Blue Wire network, and in an interview with Front Office Sports, he explained his surprising choice. Indeed, it is one that sets him apart from many other professional athletes who seem to compete for who can be the most politically outraged on social media.

“I just like to have conversations with people just to see where their spirit and their energy lies,” Howard explained. “And a lot of times, when we see people online, we see people in the media or the face that they put on when they’re on TV or whatever, maybe [it’s] a little bit different than how they carry themselves and how they move when they’re not on camera and stuff like that.”

Howard’s interest isn’t politically motivated. He appears genuinely curious about Trump as a person rather than as a polarizing political figure. What a concept—actually wanting to understand someone before judging them. Go figure!

Beyond Politics: Howard’s Presidential Curiosity

Howard’s rationale stems from a place of respect for the presidency itself. He acknowledges the tremendous burden of leadership that comes with the highest office.

“So, I just want to have a conversation with him, talk to him about upbringing, how did he get to where he is today, being a president and how difficult it is,” Howard told Front Office Sports.

Howard went on to express a mature perspective on presidential leadership.

“I don’t think people understand it, the tough assignment of being a president, but also trying to carry your own morals,” he said.

Howard even compared the presidency to “being a king in your own land” with responsibilities to countless citizens. This recognition of leadership challenges shows remarkable perspective. Have you noticed how rare it is these days for celebrities to acknowledge the difficulties of leadership rather than just criticizing from the sidelines?

Check out Howard’s full remarks on this in the video below.

Dwight Howard's dream podcast guest:

Donald Trump.

"I want to talk to Donald Trump," @DwightHoward tells FOS. pic.twitter.com/wsFTKObRx7

— Front Office Sports (@FOS) March 26, 2025

Seeing Past Media Portrayals

Howard’s comments suggest a desire to look beyond media characterizations. He wants to understand the man behind the public persona.

This approach stands in stark contrast to many professional athletes who take hardline stances against political figures without seeking understanding. You know the type—quick to virtue signal on Instagram but mysteriously silent about actually learning about complex issues.

Howard specifically mentioned wanting to see how Trump carries himself off-camera. He’s interested in the authentic person rather than the media portrayal.

This refreshing curiosity suggests Howard values forming his own opinions based on direct interaction rather than filtered information. In today’s media landscape, that’s practically revolutionary.

A Bridge Between Sports and Politics

Howard’s interest in Trump points to something larger. It shows how the President’s influence extends well beyond traditional political spheres.

While many celebrities and athletes openly criticize Trump, Howard’s approach is different. He’s seeking conversation rather than confrontation.

This stance might help bridge the often-contentious divide between sports and politics. Genuine dialogue often accomplishes more than social media posturing—though I suspect that doesn’t generate as many likes and shares from the blue-check brigade.

Howard isn’t making political statements. Instead, he’s expressing interest in understanding leadership at the highest level.

In a time when many public figures use their platforms for divisive rhetoric, Howard’s thoughtful interest in understanding presidential leadership provides a welcome alternative. If more celebrities followed his lead, we might actually have meaningful conversations in this country again.

Key Takeaways:

• Howard shows rare respect for the presidency, while most athletes take politically charged stances.
• His interest in seeing beyond media portrayals demonstrates intellectual independence.
• This approach models how Americans can bridge political divides through conversation, not confrontation.
• The former NBA star’s perspective offers a refreshing alternative to celebrity virtue signaling.

Source: OutKick