What it costs to be an elite figure skater like the 'Quad God'

The podcast explores the exorbitant costs associated with becoming an Olympic figure skater, estimating it can reach $1 million. It highlights how, unlike many countries, the U.S. doesn't provide federal funding for youth athletics, placing the financial burden on families. The conversation emphasizes that expenses explode when skaters require private coaching and ice time, creating a system where financial background significantly impacts a skater's ability to advance. Examples like Ilia Malinin, whose parents are coaches, illustrate how early access to top-tier training is often a result of financial privilege. While U.S. Figure Skating offers some funding to internationally competing skaters, it barely covers costs like choreography and costumes, which are crucial for competitive success. The economics of pairs and ice dance are further complicated by a gender imbalance, where female skaters' families often subsidize their male partners.