The alpine skiing fan community has grown in recent years thanks to a unique project – the podcast Skiing is Believing. Its voices are Alan Rigg, an 82-year-old enthusiast, and his grandson Matthew Garcka, who turns 18 in just a few days. What unites them is not only family ties, but also a passion for skiing and the desire to share stories that have reached thousands of fans around the world. Together, they bridge generations, proving that the love for skiing knows no age limits.
How It All Began
Alan recalls that he got into skiing by accident – through his family.
“It all started with my son, Matt’s uncle. He wanted to try skiing, so we all gave it a go. And from that moment on, it became part of our lives.”
The podcast itself came about just as randomly. Matt suggested to his grandfather that they could give it a try – and although Alan had no idea what a podcast even was, he agreed.
“I didn’t know what was coming, but it turned out to be one of the best decisions. We got to meet guests we would never have dreamed of, visited places we otherwise wouldn’t have – and above all, it was pure joy. Skiing is believing!”
Their first big moment was the debut episode about Lucas Braathen’s retirement in Sölden 2023.
“I remember recording it while on holiday in Ibiza,” says Matt. “It was clear this was something worth capturing.”
The Advantage of English and the Power of Conversation
Matt and Alan record in English, which opens the door to a wide range of athletes.
“It’s incredible how many skiers speak multiple languages,” Alan notes. “Sometimes we’ll throw in a question in their native tongue – it’s a small gift back to them, since the rest of the conversation is in English. Although Slovak with the Zampa brothers was pretty tricky.”
Equally important is that their style evolved from standard Q&As into natural conversations.
“Athletes prefer when it flows like a chat, not a press conference,” explains Matt. This authenticity is one reason their podcast feels so genuine – something listeners truly appreciate. Recording from home also helps guests relax, giving the whole thing a cozy, family vibe.
How an Episode Comes Together
At first glance their conversations sound spontaneous, but every episode takes preparation.
“I try to learn as much as I can about the athletes – not just their results, but also little details that make a story interesting,” Matt explains. “Some things I find in results lists, others come from fans or commentators. I’m always looking for that extra something that makes the talk more personal.”
Alan adds that experience has taught them flexibility.
“In the first season we wrote out lists of questions. Now it’s more about preparing topic areas and letting the conversation flow. It’s often the natural moments that reveal the most.”
Music, Family, and Skiing Passion
Interestingly, Alan is originally a musician.
“I played brass and woodwind instruments, and a bit of guitar. People thought that if I ever did a podcast, it would be about music. But life took me in another direction,” he smiles.
Skiing, however, runs deep in the family.
“When we get together, we always end up talking about races or about who was the most interesting guest. Even grandma now asks if we’re going to the World Cup finals, because she needs to book flights and hotels…” says Matt.
First World Cups and Nerves about Dave
At first, they knew ski races only from TV, but attending their first World Cup in Levi changed everything.
“Suddenly, meeting athletes we had only ever talked about became reality. It was unbelievable,” Matt recalls.
The biggest nerves, however, weren’t with stars like Noel or Kristoffersen, but with British legend Dave Ryding.
“I was completely rattled before meeting him. In the end, he turned out to be one of the funniest and kindest people on the circuit. It will be hard for us when he retires,” Matt admits emotionally.
Wild Moments and Unexpected Situations
Podcasting means being ready for surprises.
“Once we had ChemmY Alcott on the line when military jets flew right over us,” Alan recalls. “The noise was so loud it nearly destroyed the mic – and Chemmy was really startled.”
Matt laughs about another episode where a guest warned them in advance that if the postman came, the dogs would go crazy.
“And of course, that’s exactly what happened. The barking was so loud that the recording was unusable for a few minutes. But in the end, it was good fun.”
And then there’s the unforgettable Hafjell story.
“We were recording with Victor Muffat-Jeandet in a hotel lounge,” Matt says. “Suddenly, someone started banging on the door. It turned out to be Ramon Zenhäusern – looking for an extra-long mattress because he didn’t fit in his bed. You couldn’t make up moments like that.”
Fans – The Soul of Skiing
Alan and Matt agree that without fans, skiing would lose part of its magic.
“When Eduard Hallberg crossed the finish line in Levi, the noise was like a football derby goal. Hundreds of kids with flags and banners were shouting – it was wild,” Alan recalls. “It shows that skiing lives off the emotions of fans, from the most devoted with fan clubs to those who just watch from home.”
The Future of the Podcast
As for plans? They don’t have fixed goals – and that’s their strength.
“We’ve never said we need to hit a specific milestone. We go step by step, we’re excited for Levi, maybe the finals. We’ll see where it takes us,” says Matt, who is preparing for university – he wants to become a sports journalist and a skiing or football commentator.
Alan adds: “It’s not about money. It’s about doing something we love. And that’s a huge privilege.”
Who They’d Still Love to Host
They’ve already welcomed many stars behind the mic, but dreams remain.
“Of course, Mikaela Shiffrin is a big wish,” Alan admits. “But first we need to convince her manager – that’s step one.”
Matt has a slightly unusual pick:
“I’d love to talk with Lara Gut-Behrami. She’s quite private on social media, which makes it fascinating to get a glimpse into her world. And then there are names like Alexis Pinturault or Dominik Paris – athletes who have achieved great things and still have much to say.”
They both agree that younger skiers and lesser-known names are just as important.
“It’s not only about the biggest stars – every athlete has a story, and we want to share it with the fans,” Matt adds.
Philosophy
The story of Matt and Alan is more than just about podcasts and races. It’s proof that a passion for sport can connect generations and create a community reaching far beyond family. Skiing is Believing is not just a name – it’s their philosophy.
Gallery
