Instead of releasing a new interview this week, we wanted to pause and reflect on some of the incredible conversations we've had in 2024. This episode celebrates some of our favorite moments from interviews this past year, including snippets from our full conversations with each of these athletes. To name a few, you'll hear from: -Kokona Hiraki, World Champion skateboarder, talks about her love for the evolving nature of skateboarding and its inclusive spirit: “Once you master one trick, there’s a new one to try. It keeps evolving. Skateboarding is just really fun, and there’s no age limit.” -Gia Trevisan, Italian Olympic sprinter, recounts how a transition from soccer led her to embrace the 400 meters despite its challenges: “I didn’t love the 400 meters. It’s probably the worst race, but it’s always better when it’s over.” -Farida Osman, Egyptian Olympic swimmer shares her journey to coping with expectations and pressure: “I realized I need to work with a sports psychologist to cope with expectations and pressure.” --------

*You can watch this episode of Flame Bearers: UNEDITED on YouTube via the Flame Bearers channel if you would like to tune in with visuals* ------- “Never give up. Any opportunity can come up, and you need to grasp it.” This mantra fuels Husnah Kukundakwe, a 17-year-old, 2x Paralympian from Uganda. In a culture where “most people like me, who are born with a disability, are seen as curses to the family...some are just killed right on the spot,” Husnah has defied every expectation. She made history as the first Ugandan swimmer to qualify for the Paralympics on merit and became the youngest athlete across all sports at the Tokyo Paralympics. She continues to smash African records and is ranked among the top 10 swimmers in Uganda (including able-bodied athletes). That said, her journey hasn’t been without setbacks. “I was swapped out of a swim race as a kid because I wasn’t seen as good enough—but I came back to prove them all wrong,” she shares. And prove them wrong she did—sweeping the medals against able-bodied athletes. For Husnah, swimming is more than a sport; it’s a source of strength and self-discovery. “It helped me stop hiding my hand and gave me the confidence to embrace who I am.” Now, Husnah is determined to create opportunities for others. When not competing, she's working to launch the Husnah Kukundakwe Disability Sports Foundation, aimed at supporting young athletes with disabilities in Uganda. “I wouldn’t want anyone to lose hope because of something like finances,” she explains. “Everyone deserves a chance to try.” In this episode, Husnah shares her record-breaking achievements, her experiences challenging cultural misconceptions about disability, and her bold vision for Uganda’s para-sports future. She also offers inspiring advice: “Ignore the negativity, believe in yourself, and find something you love that makes you feel free.” ----------- Flame Bearers: UNEDITED, a new video and podcast series celebrates the journeys of elite women athletes from around the world at all phases of their journeys: seeking their first international qualifications, at the pinnacle of their careers, and after retirement. In this largely UNEDITED series, we'll meet more athletes than ever before, all at various stages of their paths. This series is different not only because we're broadening who we're featuring, but how we're doing so. In the spirit of bringing you MORE STORIES, the tradeoff is fewer bells + whistles (i.e. animations & fancy sound effects than we normally include in our productions). We think it's worth the trade off so we can elevate more women doing incredible work -- we'd love to hear your thoughts. ------ Flame Bearers is a multi media movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 250 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► / @flamebearers Follow us - Instagram - / flamebearers Facebook - / flamebearerspodcast Linkedin - / flame-bearers Tiktok- / flame_bearers X- / flame_bearers OUR WEBSITE - https://flamebearers.com/

“Your body isn’t broken—it just works differently now.” That’s how Dana Mathewson—3x Team USA Wheelchair Paralympian, and Wimbledon champ—views her body today, but that wasn't always her perspective. At the age of 10, Dana developed a rare auto-immune condition. When most girls are desperately trying to fit in with their peers, Dana was forced to reimagine her identity and future. She shares, “I was 10 years old, and suddenly, the thing everyone noticed about me was my wheelchair. I felt like I had to be prettier, funnier—just more—to compensate for what I thought was a huge defect.” Reflecting on this period, Dana mentions, "sports taught me to see my body as something to celebrate, not to hide." Wheelchair tennis helped her rebuild confidence and overcome self-doubt,, ultimately propelling her to the highest levels of competition on the global stage. "Although my body doesn’t work the same way it used to, that doesn’t mean it’s broken. It just means I’ve found a new way to make it work for me—and it does." Dana also opens up about her decision to retire after over a decade in the sport, saying, “I realized I wanted to spend more time with my family and my new husband—there was more to life than constant travel and training.” She remains deeply connected to the game, transitioning into commentary and consulting roles, where she plans to bring her firsthand insights to a wider audience. We can't wait to tune in! Throughout, Dana discusses the challenges of breaking down misconceptions about Paralympic sports, the importance of representation, and her hopes for para-sports leading into LA 2028. Plus, she offers advice for anyone navigating life’s challenges: lean into what makes you unique, find community, and don’t be afraid to redefine success. “The outlets are out there, and others are searching for you just as much as you’re searching for them,” she says. --------- We heard you loud & clear: you want more athlete's stories, so we responded. Flame Bearers: UNEDITED, a new video and podcast series celebrates the journeys of elite women athletes from around the world at all phases of their journeys: seeking their first international qualifications, at the pinnacle of their careers, and after retirement. In this largely UNEDITED series, we'll meet more athletes than ever before, all at various stages of their paths. This series is different not only because we're broadening who we're featuring, but how we're doing so. In the spirit of bringing you MORE STORIES, the tradeoff is fewer bells + whistles (i.e. animations & fancy sound effects than we normally include in our productions). We think it's worth the trade off so we can elevate more women doing incredible work -- we'd love to hear your thoughts. ------ Flame Bearers is a multi media movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 250 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVnEbCOeOvNlK6Bocw9ZSdA?sub_confirmation=1 Follow us - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/flamebearers/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FlameBearersPodcast Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/flame-bearers/ Tiktok- https://www.tiktok.com/@flame_bearers X- https://twitter.com/flame_bearers OUR WEBSITE - https://flamebearers.com/

“What we do is sometimes the least interesting thing about us.” That’s how Julie-Anne Staehli—an Olympian from Canada and pro runner with Team New Balance Boston—sees it. With over a decade of experience competing at the highest levels, Julie-Anne has learned that while competing is a big part of her, it's what she does, not who she is. In this episode, Julie-Anne opens up about her journey, from growing up playing every sport imaginable to finding her stride as an endurance athlete. She shares how resilience, grit, and her “stubborn determination” helped her navigate the ups and downs of elite competition. Julie-Anne also dives into the importance of joy and balance, guided by her coach’s mantra: “Healthy, happy, and then running fast.” She talks about avoiding burnout, embracing the unique paths that bring athletes to the start line, and the lessons she’s learned about leadership and authenticity. Plus, she offers advice for anyone chasing big goals: stay present, enjoy the ride, and don’t take it all too seriously. Photo credit: Heather MacEachern-Tarasick ------ We heard you loud & clear: you want more athlete's stories, so we responded. Flame Bearers: UNEDITED, a new video and podcast series celebrates the journeys of elite women athletes from around the world at all phases of their journeys: seeking their first international qualifications, at the pinnacle of their careers, and after retirement. In this largely UNEDITED series, we'll meet more athletes than ever before, all at various stages of their paths. This series is different not only because we're broadening who we're featuring, but how we're doing so. In the spirit of bringing you MORE STORIES, the tradeoff is fewer bells + whistles (i.e. animations & fancy sound effects than we normally include in our productions). We think it's worth the trade off so we can elevate more women doing incredible work -- we'd love to hear your thoughts.

"If you have the chance to be the best in the world at something, even for the fourth time, you should probably take it." Caryn Davies, a 3x Olympic medalist, shares her extraordinary journey of ambition, resilience, and self-discovery in this unfiltered conversation. Caryn, who competed in three Olympic Games—Athens (2004), Beijing (2008), and London (2012)—amassed an impressive record: a silver medal in Athens and back-to-back gold medals in Beijing and London as part of the U.S. Women’s Eight. She reflects on her initial decision to retire after London, only to feel drawn back to rowing years later, inspired by her enduring love for the sport and the possibility of a fourth Olympic appearance in Tokyo. Her return, however, was anything but straightforward. She recounts the struggles of reintegrating with a younger team, battling a significant injury, and ultimately being cut from the Tokyo squad. Despite not making the final team, Caryn explains how she redefined success: "Even though I didn’t make it to the Olympic Games... I had won something more important than a gold medal: the respect and love of my teammates." In this conversation Caryn shares about her learnings from the most challenging moments, including the power of vulnerability, the importance of seeking feedback, and the delicate balance of intrinsic versus extrinsic motivation. She also offers unique insights into what it means to embody the Olympic ideals of excellence, respect, and joy in effort: "A true Olympian honors not just excellence but also friendship and respect, even amidst fierce competition." Caryn takes us behind the scenes of her life as an elite rower and shares how the lessons from her Olympic journey now guide her in her career as a lawyer. She shares how "being a normal person [not an elite athlete] is really hard." This conversation is a testament to the idea that greatness isn't just measured by medals but by the impact you leave on those around you.

Charlie Guest, is a 2x Olympic skier, psych student, and an advocate for gender equity in sports. After breaking her back in 2014, Charlie went on to become the first British woman to ever win an Alpine European Cup (2019) and later went on to rack up 3 titles. Charlie opens up about her passion for skiing and the systemic inequalities she’s encountered. Specifically, Charlie recounts the infuriating disparities in media coverage during last year's Junior Alpine World Championships championship, where men’s races were given priority while women’s events were ignored. "It wasn’t an accident. It was a choice," she shares. She highlights how these decisions have ripple effects, impacting sponsorships, visibility, and future opportunities for women athletes. The conversation takes a deeply personal turn as Charlie reflects on her realization that even training methods were not designed for women. “None of the training we were doing was designed for us, and it broke me—physically and emotionally." Yet, this story isn’t just about challenges—it’s about hope and action. Charlie emphasizes the power of speaking up: “If you use your voice, it gives others the courage to use theirs. That’s where real change begins.”

In this episode, we sprint into the life of Jodie Williams, a 3x Olympian from Great Britain, beginning with her early days as an unstoppable young athlete. Jodie recalls her first taste of victory, winning races at school sports days and even being pitted against older boys in a heptathlon when “no one could beat me.” That moment fueled a drive that would guide her to track and field, where she quickly became a standout. That said, her journey to the Olympics wasn’t without setbacks. She reflects on the heartbreak of missing the London Olympics due to a torn hamstring and feeling overwhelmed in her first Olympic experience in Rio. But by Tokyo, she had found a new mindset: “I just looked up... there was no crowd, but I felt at peace. I thought, 'Wow, I’ve done it.'” Jodie opens up about the highs and lows of pursuing her dream, describing how fear has been ever-present: “Fear is a huge part of it… if you're dreaming that big, there’s going to be a lot of fear involved. That’s part of the journey.” Learning to manage her inner dialogue, she says, has been essential, as she’s worked to “make friends” with her inner critic and celebrate each small victory. Jodie shares how wherever you are in your journey, she wants you to stop to congratulate yourself today. "Say, 'Good job for getting out of bed, for getting dressed,' because sometimes, that’s the biggest achievement of the day." Beyond her athletic career, Jodie founded the Listen Journal, a platform for women to share their stories authentically. She’s also found a passion for coffee, seeing it as a way to build community and raise awareness around its history. --------------- Flame Bearers is a multi-platform media movement illuminating the stories of our world's best women athletes. We tell stories via video, podcast, and live events, centering her story in her words. For more videos about elite women in sport, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► / @flamebearers Follow us - Instagram - / flamebearers Facebook - / flamebearerspodcast Linkedin - / flame-bearers Tiktok- / flame_bearers X- / flame_bearers OUR WEBSITE - https://flamebearers.com/ Leave a comment and tell us what you liked in the video. If you like the content, subscribe to our channel!

Celina Toth traded in her gymnastics leotard for her swimsuit at age 12, where she quickly rose up the ranks, and consistently maintained her spot on the Canadian National Team since 2008. "I was the oldest diver to ever qualify for their first Olympics in Canada at 28...a testament to my character, that I was never giving up." A 4x World Cup Finalist and CAN Fund recipient, Celina made quite the splash in the world of diving, and did so on her terms, calling the shots for herself. Her motivation? "Every time I step on that platform, I'm diving for the little girl who was told she wasn’t good enough." And it hasn't been easy. Throughout her career, she's battled toxic training environments, body shaming, and abusive coaches. She shares, "I was told I was too fat, that I’d never get the scores I deserved because of the way I looked...but I made it anyway." In today's conversation, Celina opens up about her decision to retire from competitive sport and in traditional Celina-fashion, is doing it her way: "I’m leaving the sport on my terms, doing it for myself, after standing up to every ‘no’ and every doubter along the way." --------------- Flame Bearers is a global storytelling platform, illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians that inspire people to drive change for themselves, in their connections with others, and their communities. For more videos about elite women in sport, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► / @flamebearers Follow us - Instagram - / flamebearers Facebook - / flamebearerspodcast Linkedin - / flame-bearers Tiktok- / flame_bearers X- / flame_bearers OUR WEBSITE - https://flamebearers.com/ Leave a comment and tell us what you liked in the video. If you like the content, subscribe to our channel!

Chahat Arora is a Indian national record holder in breast stroke who has been one of the most consistent swimmers for her country over the past decade. That said, for Chahat swimming is "more about being happy than being successful. If I'm happy doing what I love, that's good enough for me right now." In today's conversation, Chahat shares how she grounds herself and develops goals for self improvement. She shares, "Instead of just thinking that I want to go to the Olympics or I want to do this, they should every day try to be better and just compare yourself with who you were yesterday, instead of comparing it to others." Let's dive in! -------- Flame Bearers is a global storytelling platform, illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women athletes who inspire people to drive change for themselves, in their connections with others, and their communities. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► / @flamebearers Follow us - Instagram - / flamebearers Facebook - / flamebearerspodcast Linkedin - / flame-bearers Tiktok- / flame_bearers X- / flame_bearers OUR WEBSITE - https://flamebearers.com/

We heard you loud & clear: you want more athlete's stories, so we responded. Today, we launch Flame Bearers: UNEDITED, a new video and podcast series celebrating the journeys of elite women athletes from around the world at all phases of their journeys: seeking their first international qualifications, a the pinnacle of their careers, and after retirement. In this largely UNEDITED series, we'll meet more athletes than ever before, all at various stages of their paths. This series is different not only because we're broadening who we're featuring, but how we're doing so. In the spirit of bringing you MORE STORIES, the tradeoff is fewer bells + whistles (i.e. animations & fancy sound effects than we normally include in our productions). We think it's worth the trade off so we can elevate more women doing incredible work -- we'd love to hear your thoughts. To launch this new series, we're kickin' things into gear with Skyler. Skyler is a baker, writer and podcaster (links below), proud dog mom, and a Paralympic tandem pilot. Not sure what that means? As Skyler shares, "Priority number one is always keeping Hannah safe when we ride. My responsibility is to be her eyes and make sure she feels empowered in her journey." In today's conversation, we hear how Skyler grew up with multiple incredible female athletic role models (including her aunt, an athlete whose name you definitely know...). As Skyler shares, even at an early age, "I was taught most to just follow what was exciting to me, and I’ve been really supported in that way, which I’ve been really lucky." We talk how she got into para sports and what she wants to dispel about para sports. She shares, "The biggest thing I want to dispel is the idea that para-sports are easy. These athletes are dealing with challenges that make training and racing more difficult, but it’s just as competitive as able-bodied sports." Check out Skyler's podcast, Sports with Sky and Miche: https://open.spotify.com/show/3X8syAf6Py30nD2tCUGTc2?si=8c3e3c58a1874888 Check out Skyler's blog here: https://empowerwomensports.wordpress.com/ 📸: @cbgphoto 📝: photo of Skyler and Hannah at World Championships

Asmaa is a 2x Olympic judoka and 6x African Champion who came to judo when most athletes are retiring. Now at 41, Asmaa has decided to say goodbye to the mat on her terms and focus on her next chapter. But first, let's hear how she got to where she is today. She's a Parisian firefighter (the only one in her community), founder, psychologist, daily ice-bath lover, and so much more. Throughout it all, Asmaa's journey has been about continually challenging herself, staying grounded, and playing. “I’m 20 years old with 21 years of experience. I have a child’s spirit.” She shares how, "The word ‘PLAY’ is literally in the world ‘OLYMPIC,’ so you can never forget that we are playing a sport." We talk about Asmaa's motivation and what gets her up in the morning. “I am driven by helping a human being reach their full potential.” We hear about her hopes for the future of women's sports, and how women (whether they are athletes or not) can support the movement. This conversation is co-hosted by 2x Olympian and 6x National Figure Skating Champ, Maé-Bérénice Méité.

Debinha (Deb) and Bia Zaneratto are two of the greatest soccer legends in the game. Both grew up playing with the boys, and in Deb's case often playing with whatever the neighborhood kids could grab that resembled a ball. Bia had her first opportunity to play with girls at 13. In this conversation we sit down with Deb and Bia together, as they both play for the Kansas City Current in the National Women's Soccer League (NWSL). This conversation is co-hosted by Maé-Bérénice Méité (2x Olympian and 6X National Figure Skating Champ, France) and conducted in Portuguese with English translation courtesy of Ana Ramos. If you don't know these two superstars, you should. Deb has played for Brazil in 2X FIFA World Cups, 2X Olympics, and has 130+ caps for her country. In the NWSL, she's wracked up 10,000+ minutes played, and is one of the most decorated players in the league (2x NWSL championships, 3x NWSL shields and multiple MVP titles). Bia skyrocketed onto the world stage at 14, and has since been a veteran of 4X FIFA World Cups (2011, 2015, 2019, 2023) and 2X Olympics. Both of them are on a mission to make the future of women's sports brighter and better than it was for them. In today's conversation we discuss motivation, overcoming challenges/stereotypes, and their hopes for the future of women's sports. When asked about her early motivation, Deb shares, "The boys wouldn’t let me play soccer with them, so I wanted to show them there was no reason I couldn’t play with them." Similarly, Bia offers, "I wanted to show the boys that I was just as capable. That a woman's place is wherever she wants.” As both look to the future, they share a commitment to increasing opportunities and support for women and girls in Brazil. Tune in to hear how! This episode was made possible in partnership with the Kansas City Current. Photo and video credit to the KC Current. ----

Tezna grew up thinking that maybe one day, she could be a Paralympic swimmer. At 12, she became South Africa's para national champ. When Tezna got in an accident one week before the Rio Paralympic Trials, she took a step away from sports to reset. Years later, she decided to pick up track and field "to stay fit," and within the year, she became a 3x African Record and South African Paralympian competing in the 200m and long jump. Because there's not (yet enough) serious prize money in para athletics, Tezna also works full-time in iGaming and is pursuing her Masters degree in Sports Management. That's right: she's a full-time athlete, full-time employee, and full-time student all at once. One day, Tezna hopes women and para athletes are able to make a living off of their professional athletic careers. In this conversation -- recorded before the Paralympics -- Tezna shares how she stumbled upon track, her aspirations for the future, and why representation matters. According to Tezna, "You have no idea how much you being there makes a big difference to someone else." While she's the only mixed athlete on the South African Paralympic track & field team and is proud to be a role model who can inspire future generations of athletes, "we are more human than we are our skin color. If you cut us open, we all bleed the same." ---------- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to exclusive video interviews and bonus content ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

Taylor has been in the pool since age 4, when her mom (a swim coach) and older sister (also a swimmer) first introduced her to the water. A D1 recruit at Loyola University Maryland, Taylor was gearing up to make a splash at the collegiate level. She was then diagnosed with Ehlers-Danlos syndrome, a condition characterized by joint pain, loose joints, and hypermobility. According to Taylor, this period of her life was both physically and emotionally excruciating. She shares how she needed to "mourn the life [I] lost but also realize that [I] gained a new life." Hearing how important swimming was to her, Taylor's physical therapist encouraged her to return to the water. One day when at the Loyola pool, the swim coach who recruited her suggested Taylor explore para swimming. This recommendation changed Taylor's life. Flash forward to today and Taylor is a 2x S10 American Record Holder and 7x Parapan Games medalist. As Taylor looks to the future, she hopes to see a world in which women are "valued like the men." She also shares how she hopes to become a Mom and how "women can be strong and powerful" while also at the top of their sport. ------ Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

Alejandra is the Dominican Republic's first female Paralympic swimmer, a Parapan American silver medalist, engineer, dog mom, and as she shares, "a 4’3” tall girl promoting inclusion." When not swimming (which she does 4-5 hours a day), Alejandra works for the International Paralympic Committee, making sport more accessible for all. As if that's not enough, she's also writing her masters thesis. When asked how she juggles it all, she shares that she's driven by her why. She knows exactly why she's waking up so early and has crystal clear goals. In today's conversation, we talk about her hopes for Paris2024, and Ale shares big news -- she's preparing for her retirement post-Paralympics! She also debunks some of the misconceptions about the Paralympics: 1. Paralympians are elite athletes NOT recreational athletes 2. She's competing in the Paralympics NOT Olympics (they are different!). ----------------- Flame Bearers is a global storytelling platform, illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians who inspire people to drive change for themselves, in their connections with others, and their communities. For more videos about elite women in sport, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVnEbCOeOvNlK6Bocw9ZSdA?sub_confirmation=1 Follow us - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/flamebearers/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FlameBearersPodcast Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/flame-bearers/ Tiktok- https://www.tiktok.com/@flame_bearers X- https://twitter.com/flame_bearers Our Website - https://flamebearers.com/

Manasi Joshi has won 10 gold, 9 silver and 15 bronze medals at level 1 international tournaments. She's a former World Champion (SL3), an engineer, an Arjuna award winner, Aspen Fellow, and has spoken at Harvard. As Manasi approaches the Paris Paralympics, she's feeling "stronger than ever." That said, she's pauses to flag HOW she hopes journalists and the media should talk about her, or rather how they shouldn't. She shares, "I don't want to be called inspirational because I happen to play the sport with a disability. I want to be called inspirational because I put in the same amount of time and effort and show up every day." Manasi shares that she'd rather have a short column than pages in a magazine focusing on how she's an inspiration because of her disability. She's more than a headline that pulls at people's heartstrings: she's an elite athlete who dominates international tournaments and puts in the blood, sweat and tears to make it to the top. In today's conversation we discuss Manasi's hopes for Paris, how the media can improve its portrayal of para athletes, and how each and every person can be a better ally to the Paralympic movement. ------------------ Flame Bearers is a global storytelling platform, illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians who inspire people to drive change for themselves, in their connections with others, and their communities. For more videos about elite women in sport, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCVnEbCOeOvNlK6Bocw9ZSdA?sub_confirmation=1 Follow us - Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/flamebearers/ Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/FlameBearersPodcast Linkedin - https://www.linkedin.com/company/flame-bearers/ Tiktok- https://www.tiktok.com/@flame_bearers X- https://twitter.com/flame_bearers OUR WEBSITE - https://flamebearers.com/

Bonus Content from The Unlocked Foundation's 'Celebrate Her' event in Paris. The UNLOCKED Foundation is a women-founded, nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering women to take brave steps toward closing the wealth gap in their own lives. In honor of the 2024 Paris Olympics, Flame Bearers Founder & CEO Jamie Mittelman joined The Unlocked Foundation at the Dior Flagship store in Paris to discuss 24 “women everyone is watching” contending for medals at the 2024 Paris Olympics, including Simone Biles, Sha’Carri Richardson, Katie Ledecky and more. Jamie and interviewer, Sabrina Mentor talk about why they admire these athletes, their stories, how they represent women and the financial implications of this Olympic moment for them.

Anastasia is a 3x World Champion and a 2X Paralympian on a mission to change how people 'see' the visually impaired. To truly see them as they are, not stereotypes. When asked to describe a blind person, Anastasia offers that "most people think of a man walking around like a zombie, big dark glasses, and a cane, but that's not how visual impairment is for me." Anastasia is a bubbly, stylish, world-class athlete who many often don't realize has a disability when briefly looking at her or quickly perusing her Instagram page. As Anastasia shares, "I don't have to be in that box that you put me in." And as Anastasia has won medal after medal and gained hundreds thousands of social media followers, she's proven that she doesn't fit in any one box. As Anastasia looks to the future, she focuses on what she can control: herself and how she shows up. She's extremely intentional about her partners and sponsors saying, "I try to only make sure that I work with people who really stand with what I believe in." On a daily basis, she focuses on the things she can do, not on what she can't. She asks herself "what is one thing I can do today that will make me feel and be more successful?" and then she does it! In today's conversation, we elevate Anastasia's work in and out of the pool, and discuss how everyone can be an ally to para athletes. ------- Episodes drop every Wednesday at 5am Eastern Standard Time through the Paralympics. ---- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

Growing up, Claire was drawn to creative and artistic pursuits: piano and trumpet, drawing, reading. At 17, her life changed when she started experiencing mobility issues. Two years later she was diagnosed with dystonia, a neurological condition characterized by involuntary muscle contractions and spasms. Claire found boccia at a local club, and credits Great Britain's coaches with inviting her to a Talent Event in 2015 that served as a turning point in her career. During this event, Claire was selected to participate in the World Class Programme at Boccia UK, marking a dramatic increase in trainings per week (jumping from 1 to 4). In Rio 2016, Claire made history becoming the first Boccia athlete from Northern Ireland to compete in the Paralympics. She went on to represent Great Britain in Tokyo2020(1), and becoming World Champion at the 2022 World Championships. That said, there's been a lot of ups and downs along the way and she shares about some of the challenges she's faced as an athlete with dystonia. When we asked Claire what she wished she knew earlier, she was quick to point to the generations before sharing, "people who have already been through this experience are great foundations of knowledge that we can rely on." She went further, encouraging young athletes to "find your community of people who will help and support you." Heading into her third Paralympics, Claire is hoping to "enjoy the experience as then I will play the best that I can." When we asked her about her legacy and what she wants to be known she shares how "I want to be an inspiration for what I do on the boccia court." Episodes drop every Wednesday at 5am Eastern Standard Time through the Paralympics. ---- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

As a young gymnast, Bryony saw kids jumping up and down on the trampoline and decided, "I want to try that! It looks like so much fun!" Three Olympic medals later, including her sparkling new gold from Paris, and she clearly hasn't stopped having fun. As World & European Trampoline Champion, Bryony has all of the accolades one could dream of, but as she shares, her journey has always been about so much more than just the hardware. Bryony's path has included countless injuries as well as serious bouts of fear and a need to relearn skills she had previously mastered. She shares her techniques for fighting fear including rationalization, writing in a diary, and working with a psychologist. "I felt embarrassed, I felt scared. You're going into a training session and you're going to struggle. You learn that fear brings focus and you have to bring your brain to focus on the things that will help you do the skill well and how you will feel when you do the skill well." In today's conversation, we explore what makes Bryony the Olympic champion and leader she is, her inner thought process around learning from failure, and her hopes for the future. She shares,"I previously thought that the more I tried and failed, the further away [from my goal] I was getting. You are learning what doesn't work, so that's getting you closer to your goal." This conversation is hosted by Maé-Bérénice Méité, 2x Olympian and 6x National Figure Skating Champion from France. This series Flame Bearers: Pathways to Paris celebrates women from around the world seeking to compete in this summer's Olympics and Paralympics. Episodes drop every Wednesday at 5am Eastern Standard Time through the Paralympics. Photo credit in podcast tile: Bryony's instagram ---- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

Watch the video version of this conversation on our YouTube channel ►/ @flamebearers Ariana came across rugby in high school school and at first, she "had no idea what rugby was, but it reminded [her] of capture the flag." She was looking for a sport outside of track that she could compete in throughout college, and credits the upperclass girls on her high school team for encouraging her to join the squad. She then went to Dartmouth College where she majored in Economics with a Chinese minor and became team captain Throughout it all, Ariana shares that "People are still confused that women play rugby. They say it's a super rough sport. That is part of my message for girls: you can play a rough sport." In today's conversation, we debunk some of the misconceptions about rugby, discuss Ari's ACL recovery from Tokyo2020, and her hopes for the future of women's sports According to Ari, People think that "because you play rugby you like to fight." Wrong. She shares her goal to podium in Paris...MISSION ACCOMPLISHED, as her team just took home bronze. Photo credit: USA Rugby This conversation is hosted by Maé-Bérénice Méité, 2x Olympian and 6x National Figure Skating Champion from France. This series Flame Bearers: Pathways to Paris celebrates women from around the world seeking to compete in this summer's Olympics and Paralympics. Episodes drop every Wednesday at 5am Eastern Standard Time through the Paralympics as well as every Monday throughout the Olympics. Photo credit in podcast tile: The Players Tribune and Sam Maller. ---- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

Taky Marie-Divine Kouamé is a World Champion and 9x French Champion track cyclist, a photographer, an entrepreneur, and so much more. As Marie-Divine shares, "doing other things keeps me sane. It's not a distraction. It makes me a better athlete." She recently worked with our co-host Maé-Bérénice Méité on an exciting documentary series following French athletes to the Games. As we head into the Paris Games in her home country, Marie-Divine has a lot of eyes on her. And she's ready to meet the moment. In today's conversation we discuss how Marie-Divine found cycling, how she grounds herself, and her hopes for the future of women's sports. Episodes drop every Wednesday at 5am Eastern Standard Time through the Paralympics. Photo credit in podcast tile: The Players Tribune and Sam Maller. ---- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

Jackie first started with dance and gymnastics, but quickly found out those weren't her sports. She had a cousin who fenced, so she gave it a try... 21 years later, she's at her second Olympics. A first generation American, Jersey girl, and World # 10 in Women's Foil (fencing), Jackie is committed to being a role model for the younger athletes on the team and all girls in sport. She shares how her first Olympics (Tokyo) were disappointing because she lost her match 15-14; she couldn't lean on the fact that she didn't perform. She shares, I "fenced so well" and "I felt so free and then came short," so Jackie's journey to Paris has been about grounding herself re-finding her love of the sport. She credits working with a sports psychologist with helping her regroup and mentally prepare for Paris. When we asked Jackie her favorite part of fencing, she gushes, "How creative it is...it's always changing. You may have a strategy going in, but you have to pivot in real time." As Jackie looks to the future, she knows she wants to give back to the community, and is still determining the best way to do so. She wants to tell others to “To be ok being vulnerable. It’s ok to fail because it makes you a stronger athlete and person.” ----- Episodes drop every Wednesday at 5am Eastern Standard Time through the Paralympics as well as every Monday through the Olympics. ---- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

At the age of 5, Farida dreamt of becoming a professional swimmer. Flash forward to 2011 and Farida was crowned World Junior Champion in the 50M butterfly in Lima, Peru, placing Egypt for the first time in history among the medaling countries. And from there, the accolades kept coming: -3X African Female Swimmer of the Year (2013, 2015 and 2017) -6X Arab Female Athlete of the Year (2011, 2012, 2013, 2015, 2016 and 2017) -3x Olympian -3x World Bronze Medalist That said, throughout it all, Farida was motivated by her desire to "be different." She wanted to challenge what was considered possible. She shares, "what motivates me and keeps me going is being the first Egyptian to do different things." And for younger Farida, there were no professional Egyptian swimmers before her, no sponsors or endorsements, so she built the infrastructure from the ground up while also setting records in the pool. That is why as Farida looks to the future, she wants to support other swimmers so they can have the support she didn't have earlier in her career. In today's interview we spotlight the trail Farida has blazed, her love of fashion (she's a self described "Princess at Heart") and hopes for women's sports moving forward. Episodes drop every Wednesday at 5am Eastern Standard Time through the Paralympics with an additional episode every Monday through the Olympics. ---- Photo Credit: FaridaOsman.com ---- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

Watch the video version of this conversation on our YouTube channel ►/ @flamebearers This interview was conducted with the help of a translator (why at times, we address the question to an interpreter). At 5 years old, Kokona's parents brought her to a local skatepark and she immediately "wanted to be like the cool skateboarders" she saw there. Flash forward to today, and she's a World champion and Olympic silver medalist. But for Kokona, it's not just about the competition (which she loves) -- it's also about the "artistic side. When people watch films of skates, I want them to look for that." That's why Kokona is known for always pushing the bounds of what's possible or been done before, trying new tricks and doing them in different spots in the park. She shares, "I want to differentiate and then show my own style." When asked what she wants to share with her fellow athletes she offered, "Lets make the Paris Olympics awesome with our girl power." Episodes drop every Wednesday at 5am Eastern Standard Time through the Paralympics and also every Monday at 5am Eastern Standard time through the Olympics. ---- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

Watch the video version of this conversation on our YouTube channel ►/ @flamebearers Giancarla wanted to be a soccer player when she was younger and got into track to stay in shape in the off season. That said, her love of soccer has stuck with her and in Tokyo 2021, she tried to hop onto the USWNT player bus to meet the players -- security nixed that. In today's episode, Giancarla talks about intentionally building a positive mindset and surrounding herself with people who make her better. "Just focus on you. It doesn't happen overnight but it's you versus you." She opens up about hormonal challenges that she faced, and developing self confidence. She shares, "it's about confidence and believing in yourself and taking risks..."Everyone is scared. That's normal. Do it scared." Episodes drop every Wednesday at 5am Eastern Standard Time through the Paralympics and starting this week with a second episode every Monday at 5AM Eastern Time through the Olympics. ---- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

Regina tried "almost every other sport" growing up, and then she found rowing at age 13. "It felt like home" she shares. Besides the feeling she loved of "pushing off the oar" and gliding through the water, Regina "saw other women who looked like [her]." A World Silver Medalist in the Women's Eight and 2x Olympian who just missed a medal in Tokyo (4th place), Regina and team are chasing the podium in Paris. Her personal motto is that she's "vicious on the water but super kind out of the boat." In our conversation Regina opens up about battling societal norms around height for women and girls. In 6th-7th grade, Regina jumped 10 inches, so her legs were always bright red and covered in stretch marks. She was repetitively teased for being the "big girl" and though she would respond with a tough exterior, the words seeped in. Throughout the ups and downs, Regina turned to her close friends and poetry for processing. At the University of Pennsylvania, Regina was the editor in chief of the feminist literary and arts magazine "The F-word" and chaired the poetry workshop group "The Body Electric" named after Walt Whitman's poem. As Regina mentions, having these creative outlets helped her not sizzle out on the water. Today she wants young girls to know "how you feel in your body is infinitely more important than any beauty ideal." ----- Thank you to We Row Like This for introducing us to Regina at the Head of the Charles. Episodes drop every Wednesday at 5am Eastern Standard Time through the Paralympics and also every Monday through the Olympics. ---- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

Watch the video version of this conversation on our YouTube channel ►/ @flamebearers In Tokyo2020, Chelsea was Guyana's first-ever table tennis Olympian and her nation's flagbearer, so as she heads into her second Olympics, she's coming in with high hopes...and a lot of eyes on her. That said, her path to Paris has focused on "re-finding the joy of table tennis." After Tokyo, things changed. People started treating her differently and everyone felt entitled to weigh in on her matches, so for the last several years, Chelsea has focused on grounding and surrounding herself with people who lift her up, not tear her down. She shares, "You have to be really mindful of the people you have around you." In today's interview, we discuss how Chelsea first found table tennis (hint: it was an accident), and we explore the other aspects of her life outside of sport. She's a self-described couch potato, nerd, rubik's cube aficianadao, beach lover, and so much more. As she looks to the future, she hopes to continue to build the sports infrastructure of her home country, Guyana. Our money is on Chelsea to do whatever she sets her mind to! This conversation is hosted by Maé-Bérénice Méité, 2x Olympian and 6x National Figure Skating Champion from France. This series Flame Bearers: Pathways to Paris celebrates women from around the world seeking to compete in this summer's Olympics and Paralympics. Episodes drop every Wednesday at 5am Eastern Standard Time through the Paralympics. ---- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

Marta was the "little Chinese" girl, but when she found track, she was better than everyone (including the guys), so she became "the fast girl." According to Marta, running was what made her different and special. "When you find something that you can hold onto, you're going to show off your superpower." For Marta, that was running. Marta grew up speaking Portuguese, with a Portuguese name, eating Portuguese food, living in Portuguese culture, yet her Mom spoke Chinese and was from a different culture. This was a challenge. According to Marta, "When I was a kid, all I wanted was to be the same. And now I want to embrace everything that is a part of me...I wish I was more different." Today's episode focuses on identity, and how Marta has evolved from wanting to blend in to wanting to express her full self. We talk about how she found track, her work ethic, and hopes for the future of women's sport. Episodes drop every Wednesday at 5am Eastern Standard Time through the Paralympics. ---- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

Watch the video version of this conversation on our YouTube channel ►/ @flamebearers Marzieh, the daughter of two Afghan parents, grew up as a refugee in Iran. "They treated us differently" she shares, which eventually led her family to move back home to Afghanistan. In her home country, Marzieh joined the Taekwondo national team and quickly climbed the ranks, where she remained until the 2021 Taliban takeover. That's when everything changed... Women can no longer go to school, the gym, or even outside without a male chaperone. As Marzieh shares, "The Taliban told me not to come back to the gym and if I did, they would do what they wanted with me." She had to flee the country and has since lived in France, where once again, she's a refugee. Despite settling into a new country, home is always on her mind; "I have to use my freedom to talk about Afghan women...Nobody will kill me here if I talk about the Taliban and the problems." So that's what she's doing. In today's episode, Marzieh shares what she wants the world to know about Afghan women (+ shares three asks below). As Marzieh looks to the future, she's not going to sugar coat things. Right now, no she's not hopeful for the future of Afghan women, but she shares that "after the dark, always comes light." Marzieh has three asks of you: 1. Write about Afghan women in your social media. Flame Bearers has graphics that you can share to support Marzieh and other Afghan women. DM us and we will share so you can post. 2. Donate to nonprofits working on the ground in Afghanistan. A few organizations to consider: World Food Program, International Rescue Committee, and Save the Children 3. If you're in a position to hire, employ or support a refugee in your community, do so. Episodes drop every Wednesday at 5am Eastern Standard Time through the Paralympics. Photo credit: Laura Sciacovelli ---- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

Watch the video version of this conversation on our YouTube channel ►/ @flamebearers What does it take to be the FIRST? To dream beyond what's considered possible? Marine Fatoumata Camara is the first and only elite female boxer from Mali. As she shares, she's gone "where people didn't expect her to because they didn't know what was possible." As of the time of this recording, Marine was on her way to Olympic qualifiers in Bangkok, Thailand, seeking to become Mali's first female Olympic boxer. Since our interview, she's secured her spot, becoming the first of hopefully many Malian women boxers. While she's the first, she's committed to not being the last. In our conversation, Marine shares about her upbringing including challenging assumptions about who can box, navigating toxicity and stress, and building the sports infrastructure for a country with limited resources and cultural precedent for boxing. Marine is used to kids high-fiving her in the streets (they see her as a role model); she's also familiar with the burdens she shoulders as the FIRST (though she won't call them that). She shares, "The slightest thing that you can do could have an impact on someone you may never meet." She's hyper-focused on being her best in the ring, but also her best outside of it because the future is watching. Marine gushes how she's working towards a world where women and girls can be whoever they want to be. Here's to you, Marine! You're literally changing the face of boxing, and we're with you every step of the way. In this interview we also sit down with Marine's close friend, Laurianne to get her inside take on Marine. Episodes drop every Wednesday at 5am Eastern Standard Time through the Paralympics. ---- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

Watch the video version of this conversation on our YouTube channel ►/ @flamebearers Sunny Choi grew up as a gymnast and first watched the 1992 Olympic gymnastics in her sparkly Little Mermaid tutu. On the drive to her first gymnastics class, 3-year-old Sunny asked Mom if she was going to win a gold medal. This summer, she finally has that chance...but in a different sport. Sunny found 'breaking' when she was a freshman at the University of Pennsylvania (note: don't call it breakdancing or everyone will know you're a newbie). One night when walking around campus, she saw Freaks of the Beat, a cool-looking breaking troop, and given her gymnastics background, was convinced to give it a go. She fell in love with the "creative elements of breaking," free flowing reactionary movements that in many ways stood in opposition to her well practiced gymnastics routines. As Sunny shares, when breaking, "you don't know what music you're going to get, so you can come in with a plan, and then throw it out the window." In this conversation we hear how Sunny has defied stereotypes as an Asian-American woman in a male dominated sport, and also how her smiley-disposition has also challenged norms (breaking is known for its aggression). She shares how she's breaking has been about "figuring out who I am." Sunny is the Pan-American Games Champ, so is coming in with high hopes for that gold medal she dreamt of in her Little Mermaid tutu. We also hear from Sunny's parents. This conversation is hosted by Maé-Bérénice Méité, 2x Olympian and 6x National Figure Skating Champion from France. This series Flame Bearers: Pathways to Paris celebrates women from around the world seeking to compete in this summer's Olympics and Paralympics. Episodes drop every Wednesday at 5am Eastern Standard Time through the Paralympics. Photo credit in podcast tile: The Players Tribune and Sam Maller. ---- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

Maé-Bérénice Méité is a 2x Olympian and 6x National Figure Skating Champion from France who is also an entrepreneur, artist, content creator, and so much more. She's deeply passionate about sharing the behind-the-scenes realities of being a world-class athlete, including the challenges and struggles. Maé-Bérénice co-hosts our interviews in Flame Bearers: Pathways to Paris celebrating women from around the world seeking to compete in this summer's Olympics and Paralympics. So, before we jump into those conversations, meet our rockstar new co-host, Maé-Bérénice. Episodes drop every Wednesday at 5am Eastern Standard Time through the Paralympics. ---- Flame Bearers is the world's first media and production company specifically illuminating the unsung stories of resilient women Olympians & Paralympians. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and are working towards a world where people feel more represented, empowered, and enlightened about the power of community. Learn more on our website: flamebearers.com Watch & subscribe to our YouTube channel to watch a video version of this episode ► / @flamebearers Follow us on social media for exclusive behind the scenes content: Instagram: /flamebearers Facebook: /flamebearerspodcast Linkedin: /flame-bearers Tiktok: /flame_bearers X: /flame_bearers

2x Olympic Gold Medalist and 3x World Champion, Caster Semenya has made headlines since winning the 800m at the 2009 World Athletics Championships at the age of 18, yet the media (and many of her fellow athletes) wouldn't gracefully acknowledge her generational talent for what it was, but rather started accusing her of being a man. This was news to Caster, someone who was born a woman and grew up a woman her whole life. Given her muscular build, speed, deep voice, and color, Caster didn't look like what many believed a woman "should" look like. Wednesday is a landmark court case determining the future of women's track and field. For the last decade Caster has been fighting to compete without changing her natural body. The IIAF (formerly World Athletics) mandated that in order to compete she had to reduce her natural testosterone levels, which according to Caster, left her feeling "like the walking dead." To hear more of the backstory from Caster's perspective, check out our season 1 episode elevating Caster right before the Tokyo Olympics. This Wednesday, May 15th, the European Court of Human Rights (ECHR) is examining Caster's appeal against regulations requiring female athletes with high testosterone levels to take medication. In our conversation Caster shares "Let's stop allowing people to give us a view or an opinion of how a woman should look like. You are born with your differences, I'm born with my differences...We need to celebrate one another." That is the world we are working towards with you, Caster.

This episode is co-hosted by Michelle's son, Cody. As Michelle shares, "If you want to know who I am, Cody has been with me through it all." According to Cody, growing up, "my classmates and teachers would pull me aside and say, 'we know who your Mom is,' but for me, she was just my Mom." Michelle was born 6 years before Title IX, and never got to watch women compete growing up. Her hero was Super Bowl champ, Mean Joe Greene, Pittsburgh Steelers defensive tackle. She didn't have a professional predecessor, so she became the Mean Joe Green – and more – of women’s soccer. Legendary USA coach Tony DiCicco described her as “the best woman that has ever played.” She played on the first USWNT (the 1985 team!), won the first Women's World Cup and Golden Boot (‘91), was the first women's player to gain global fame, the first player to sign a shoe deal, and was named FIFA Player of the Century ('00). Throughout it all, Michelle's journey has been characterized by her unbridled love of the game, an unwillingness to deal with BS (she always keeps it real and calls a spade a spade), and a prioritization of her family and teammates. In fact, this ENTIRE 1985 series was her idea, as she wanted to give credit to her teammates for the foundational role they have played in the USWNT. In Michelle's story she shares about her ups and downs, her battles with U.S. Soccer, and her life today with son Cody on the farm. We hear from Anson Dorrance (Women's Soccer Coach, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill & Former Coach, USWNT), Jill Ellis (President, San Diego Wave & Former Coach, USWNT), Lesle Gallimore (GM, Seattle Reign FC & Michelle's Former USWNT Pool Teammate), and Heather O'Reilly (USWNT and TST teammates). To write a letter thanking Michelle or anyone on the original USWNT, please send it to marissap@flamebearers.com Media used in this production: -38 years after making history, first USWNT to be honored at Asheville City regular season finale, Chris Womack, June 29th 2023, <https:> -The Forgotten Early History of Women’s Soccer, Laurent Dubois, January 22, 2016 <https:></https:> -ESPN YouTube Channel, 'USWNT win the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage | 2023 ESPYS (📍 @CapitalOne)'</https:>

It’s been a few months since the World Cup, but we committed to telling the stories of the entire first USWNT, so we tracked down one of the two outstanding players. Here she is! Tara Buckley O'Sullivan, grew up doing everything with her twin sister, Moira. The duo would go to their older brother's soccer games, and then their younger brother's games. When Tara and Moira were watching younger brother, Danny play, his coach asked Mrs. Buckley, "why don't you dress your girls up like cheerleaders and they can cheer for their younger brother?" Tara's response? "Heck no! We wanna play!" So Mrs. Buckley stepped up and became their coach. She didn't really know soccer, but she knew playing was important to the girls, so she made sure they could. Fast forward and Tara became UConn’s first 4x All-American in women's soccer. Throughout it all, she describes her teams as "in it for the love of the game," a love she imparted to her children in whatever sports they chose to pursue be it lacrosse, taekwondo, or more recently golf. Since retiring from soccer, Tara credits her family as being her rock... and the feeling is mutual as we hear from husband Mike, son Timothy, and daughter, Caitlin. Media used in this production: -38 years after making history, first USWNT to be honored at Asheville City regular season finale, Chris Womack, June 29th 2023, <https:> -The Forgotten Early History of Women’s Soccer, Laurent Dubois, January 22, 2016 <https:></https:> -ESPN YouTube Channel, 'USWNT win the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage | 2023 ESPYS (📍 @CapitalOne)'</https:>

Yes, it’s been a few months since the World Cup, but we committed to telling the stories of the entire first USWNT, so we tracked down one of the two outstanding players. Here she is! Sharon was the first woman to be named U.S. Soccer Player of the Year and according to Michelle Akers, she's the ultimate badass. "You showed up at the game on a motorcycle and picture me, I'm just sitting on the ground, just happy to be there and totally intimidated, but you, Sharon show up on this motorcycle, and you're Joan Jett...In my mind, when you were on that US team, there was no one better." How Sharon got there isn't a traditional story either (not that there even was a path to the USWNT because it didn't exist). Sharon was first introduced to soccer because "Mom wanted me out of the house" once she picked up a habit of doing things with her feet. Sharon had just watched a TV program on a woman born without arms; the woman was sitting on a stool threading a needle with her toes, and given that Sharon always wanted to be prepared, she immediately started learning how to do things with her feet. "Stuff happens to people" and I "wanted to be prepared if I were to lose my arms." To her Mom's chagrin, Sharon started using her feet to open doorknobs and doing all housework. Her Mom soon thereafter decided Sharon's feet would be better used playing soccer. Since playing, Sharon has had jobs ranging from carpenter to travel agent and coach, and she just completed illustrating a brand new children's book: The Other Side Of Nowhere: A Jack and Sabrina Adventure (link to purchase below). When asked why it's important people know the stories of the 1985 USWNT she shares, "you always have to have try and to push the limits because there's always going to be somebody somewhere that's going to try to keep you from doing what you want to do. If you want to, you want a better place in the world, you got to do a little bit more. Aim high and go." TO PURCHASE SHARON'S BOOK: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CTLBLKH9?ref_=cm_sw_r_mwn_dp_GG624XWC56EBY7A7P9VB&language=en_US -------- Media used in this production: -38 years after making history, first USWNT to be honored at Asheville City regular season finale, Chris Womack, June 29th 2023, <https:> -The Forgotten Early History of Women’s Soccer, Laurent Dubois, January 22, 2016 <https:></https:> -ESPN YouTube Channel, 'USWNT win the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage | 2023 ESPYS (📍 @CapitalOne)'</https:>

Kim Crabbe was the first African-American to roster on the USWNT. She was on the 1986 team, but given that we've been telling the stories of the original USWNT trailblazers, Kim needed to be celebrated. According to longtime friend and soccer leader, Samuel Okpodu, Kim is the "Cinderella of soccer...Today everybody's enjoying it, but nobody remembers how it all started. Kim started it all" at a time when black girls didn't really play soccer. According to sister, Kacey, while their Mom originally wanted them to play more "girly girl sports," soccer was what the siblings were into, so "Kim led the way" and Mom was incredibly supportive. And while Kim tore it up on the field (first for George Mason University and then the USWNT), she's never hung up her cleats because for her, the game is a means to serve. As the Outreach Program Director, Wilmington Hammerheads Youth Football Club and more recently Founder and CEO of her nonprofit, Outreach of Cape Fear, Kim has used soccer to support thousands of youth. Her nonprofit bridges the gap for disadvantaged and at-risk youth in Southeastern North Carolina through soccer and mentorship. As Kim shares, "Soccer has been my tool for reaching people and my overarching calling is service." This rings true to sister, Kacey, who shares, "our mother raised us with great integrity in finding your sense of purpose, and then passing that on to others." Kim was inducted into the Virginia-DC Hall of Fame (2016), received the Black Soccer Coaches Advocacy Group Award of Excellence (2018), Centennial NAACP Youth Services Award (2019), and the Youth Coach of the Year Award (2021). Most recently in 2022, U.S. Soccer established an award in her name: The Kim Crabbe Game Changers Award celebrating diversity, inclusion, and belonging within the soccer community. Contributing guests include Kacey Crabbe Jefferson (Kim's sister), Laurie Curry (Kim's best friend), Richard White (Kim's Coach growing up), Logan Martinez (Coach Kim's soccer player), Jazmine Crabbe-Harris (Kim's daughter), Samuel Okpodu (longtime friend and soccer leader), Sully Hamid (longtime friend), and Lisa Pittaro (George Mason and USWNT teammate). Learn more about Kim's nonprofit here: http://outreachofcapefear.org/ Join the Outreach of Cape Fear Facebook group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/902619116834747 Media used in this production: -38 years after making history, first USWNT to be honored at Asheville City regular season finale, Chris Womack, June 29th 2023, <https:> -The Forgotten Early History of Women’s Soccer, Laurent Dubois, January 22, 2016 <https:></https:> -ESPN YouTube Channel, 'USWNT win the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage | 2023 ESPYS (📍 @CapitalOne)'</https:>

Denise was a swimmer, diver, gymnast, and track and field athlete before becoming a soccer player at 14. That said, Washington had strong support for women's soccer at the time, so once she was hooked, she was all in on soccer. Hilariously, Denise and Michelle have a moment where they both share how they felt playing against each other. Hint: they were both intimidated. As Denise offers, Michelle and others were her "idols back then...I tried to get my game up to be able to handle them." Michelle replies, "you and your team were so good. I might've not looked like I was intimidated, but inside I was like, 'holy shit.'" Flash forward to 1985, and Denise became one of the captains of the first USWNT, not surprising as leadership was and still is a trait Denise is known for. We hear from former teammate, Jan (who speaks with us live from the Women's World Cup) who describes Denise as "very intense and focused" with "exceptional leadership" and "loads of fun." And Denise's dedication to the sport didn't end with her professional retirement. She became a commissioner because she wanted to "promote competitive play for younger people" In this episode, Denise shares about Walking Soccer. Learn more here: https://www.whatcomadultsoccer.com/walk-soccer

Pam was working in the credit department of JCPenney when she got a call from The Washington Post asking her about making the first U.S. Women's National Team -- she hadn't heard from U.S. Soccer yet, so she wasn't sure what was happening. The Post had the scoop -- she was on the team. The first USWNT. Flash forward and though she's no longer a professional player, she's held onto her competitive spirit. Over the years, she's hiked the Appalachian Trail. 3 TIMES. She jumped into coaching young girls, always emphasizing "playing for the love of the game." She adventures in a camper van and runs competitively in road races, a love that her son, Nick shares (he's an ultra marathoner). Despite all of the incredible accolades and adventures Pam has wracked up, she cites her marriage with husband, Glenn (her #1 fan) and their two sons as what she's most proud of. "That's what I lead with," she says, often not sharing the USWNT part of her life with newer friends. Fear not -- Glenn makes sure everyone knows... And he's been with Pam every step of the way. Glenn recalls hearing Pam's name being read off every morning in school assembly because "she was so good at every sport." They finally met in P.E. class and the rest is history. When asked why the world needs to hear Pam and her teammates' stories, Glenn offers, "It's so important to always think back about the people that were the first." Pam was one of those pioneers. Media used in this production: -38 years after making history, first USWNT to be honored at Asheville City regular season finale, Chris Womack, June 29th 2023, <https:> -The Forgotten Early History of Women’s Soccer, Laurent Dubois, January 22, 2016 <https:></https:> -ESPN YouTube Channel, 'USWNT win the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage | 2023 ESPYS (📍 @CapitalOne)'</https:>

*Content Warning: This episode includes stories of sexual abuse. This production contains material of a highly sensitive nature including stories of sexual grooming and manipulation that may be triggering. Resources provided below.* Cindy remembers going to her brothers' soccer games to watch. "They didn't have girls soccer then, and I was dying to play... I remember standing on the sidelines thinking, 'Oh, well, maybe somebody will get hurt and they won't have enough players and the coach will look over and say, you. Girl. You look like you could play. Do you want to join?'" That never happened. But Title IX did, and then there was a girls team. Cindy immediately signed up. And from the start, soccer was clearly Cindy's game, as sister, Valerie describes Cindy as the "sporty tomboy." While Cindy went on to break countless records and play on the first USWNT, her story isn't only one of success. Her story is also one of suffering, warning, and solidarity. Cindy's youth soccer coach sexually abused her. When asked if she's comfortable sharing, she thoughtfully replies, "Of course it's uncomfortable, but I feel it's really important to share because I think that's another epidemic: sexual abuse of female athletes." In this episode, Cindy shares what she wants the world to hear. Contributing experts include Amy Carnell (Cindy''s friend and survivor, sexual abuse) and Valerie (Cindy's sister). RESOURCES ON SEXUAL GROOMING: -Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN)'s Warning Signs of Sexual Grooming: https://www.rainn.org/news/grooming-know-warning-signs -RAINN'S 24/7 sexual assault hotline: https://www.rainn.org/resources -Overview from the American Bar Association on Understanding Sexual Grooming in Child Abuse Cases: https://www.americanbar.org/groups/public_interest/child_law/resources/child_law_practiceonline/child_law_practice/vol-34/november-2015/understanding-sexual-grooming-in-child-abuse-cases/ -Victim Support: https://www.victimsupport.org.uk/you-co/types-crime/sex-crimes/grooming/ Media used in this production: -38 years after making history, first USWNT to be honored at Asheville City regular season finale, Chris Womack, June 29th 2023, <https:> -The Forgotten Early History of Women’s Soccer, Laurent Dubois, January 22, 2016 <https:></https:> -ESPN YouTube Channel, 'USWNT win the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage | 2023 ESPYS (📍 @CapitalOne)'</https:>

While Kathy (or Ridgey as she was called) had older sisters, she grew up playing with the boys, and doing so in what SHE wanted to wear. Just as Kathy started public elementary school, the rules changed to allow girls to wear pants (Kathy's older sisters had been required to wear dresses or skirts). As Kathy shares, Mom "tried to get me in dresses on picture day, and I would sneak out my brother's hand me downs." Michelle can relate... By fourth grade, Kathy was faster than all of the kids in her school. She "always had speed on her side." She cites the "old man on the bicycle" as one of the most influential people on her game sharing, "He was just this old soccer guy and because there was no soccer anywhere, and the kids were playing, he gave me a couple of pointers on how to do one on ones." And that changed everything. To the "old man," wherever you are, thank you for coaching and inspiring one of the legends of the first USWNT. We hear from soccer teammate Diana Inch, who played with Kathy for years and against Michelle, so was along for the "rollercoaster of soccer." Flash forward to today, and Kathy is the Assistant Director, Innovation and Performance in the Washington State Office of the Governor. She explains what that means but essentially, she holds state agencies accountable for "moving towards equitable solutions." Takeaway: Kathy hasn't only broken barriers in soccer, but also in the statehouse. Media used in this production: -38 years after making history, first USWNT to be honored at Asheville City regular season finale, Chris Womack, June 29th 2023, <https:> -The Forgotten Early History of Women’s Soccer, Laurent Dubois, January 22, 2016 <https:></https:> -ESPN YouTube Channel, 'USWNT win the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage | 2023 ESPYS (📍 @CapitalOne)'</https:>

Nobody in Ann's family played soccer, so at 12, she went to the town firehouse to sign herself up -- she strategically jotted down "goalie" because she thought it increased her odds of making the team. Flash forward to UVA, and Ann is playing field hockey to help with the costs, yet she returned home on weekends without games to play soccer. UVA didn't have a women's soccer team at the time. After making the first USWNT in 1985, Ann became an engineer, partially because of the work-life balance, so she could spend evenings playing soccer and coaching. By now, she's coached the game at every level possible and her players and daughters have the stories to prove it. We hear from her former player, Anna, daughters, Kim and Kelly, and friends Helen and Matt, all who share their love for Ann...and a few funny stories about her climbing trees, be it to get a better view of a soccer match or just waiting for a daughter after practice. Media used in this production: -38 years after making history, first USWNT to be honored at Asheville City regular season finale, Chris Womack, June 29th 2023, <https:> -The Forgotten Early History of Women’s Soccer, Laurent Dubois, January 22, 2016 <https:></https:> -ESPN YouTube Channel, 'USWNT win the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage | 2023 ESPYS (📍 @CapitalOne)'</https:>

Kim Wyant is used to being the first. She recorded the first USWNT goalkeeper win, the first shutout, the first anterior ACL injury (was the first goalie to be replaced by a field player, shoutout Lori Henry), was one of the first female BMX riders, and as of eight years ago (in 2015) became the only female head coach of an NCAA men’s soccer team (things have changed as we'll hear...) Needless to say, Kim is a Flame Bearer in so many ways. Today we sit down with Kim to discuss her journey, and Michelle reflects on joining Kim at the University of Central Florida. "Kim, seeing you as a player was the first time I saw a female flying and getting into the upper 90s," Michelle shares. Kim reflects on how the game has changed, "Women's soccer back then was literally a soccer desert." Daughters, Danielle and Alex share what their Mom's career means to them. Contributing experts include Kim's daughters, Danielle and Alex. Media used in this production: -38 years after making history, first USWNT to be honored at Asheville City regular season finale, Chris Womack, June 29th 2023, <https:> -The Forgotten Early History of Women’s Soccer, Laurent Dubois, January 22, 2016 <https:></https:> -ESPN YouTube Channel, 'USWNT win the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage | 2023 ESPYS (📍 @CapitalOne)'</https:>

When asked to recall her first soccer memory, Lori shares her team’s post-game tradition: whether they won or lost, 6-year old Lori and team would go to the nearby hamburger establishment and chow down on free french fries. And while the teams have changed over the years, Lori’s love for the game has only kept growing. Flash forward to 1985, and Lori had "no clue what to expect" when it came to the national team. According to her she was "so happy, surprised and excited to be a part of it." Funnily enough, it wasn’t until after the game started and others started “recognizing us that I was like, wow, this is pretty amazing.” As the youngest of 8 kids, Lori shares that "family is big for me," so she raised her family with her soccer-loving husband, with a ball at their feet. According to daughter, Megan, “soccer is in our DNA” as Mom and Dad built a soccer field in the backyard and Sundays “we don't go to church, we wake up and watch the EPL.” When we asked Lori about her hopes for the future of women's soccer, she replied, for girls "to play with no restrictions, financial or social stigmas. If she has it in her heart and she has the inner drive and desire, that she should be able to play wherever and however works for her."

Emily grew up as #7 of 8 kids so she always had someone to play with...and she played every sport possible, particularly enjoying team sports. Older sister, Aimee describes Emily's "quiet strength" and "natural leadership" at a young age. Coach Mike Ryan called Emily a "maverick" because she tucked in her shirt sleeves, and wore her soccer socks down. "Mike was considering not taking us because he considered us mavericks" she shares, speaking of herself and co-host Michelle Akers for the 1985 Cupa Mundialito. In the end, it's a good thing that Coach Ryan did, as Emily scored and assisted the first two goals for the team. When Emily talks about her career, she says, "we just wanted to play and I was pretty darn focused." Flash forward to today and shares how the winning culture and record has helped the USWNT be able to successfully push for wins off the field: "Winning begets winning." In this episode, Emily plugs Marshall Harner's (her son) musical talent. Check out his work on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/37x37LhcgsJOagPnHZjhyZ?si=2mPFUjAWTEaX0qkROwSohQ Contributing experts include Coach Anson Dorrance, Lisa Gmitter-Pittaro (Emily's friend and teammate,), Steve Harner (Emily's Husband), Aimee Gazelle (Emily's sister) and Avery Harner (Emily's daughter) Media used in this production: -38 years after making history, first USWNT to be honored at Asheville City regular season finale, Chris Womack, June 29th 2023, <https:> -The Forgotten Early History of Women’s Soccer, Laurent Dubois, January 22, 2016 <https:></https:> -ESPN YouTube Channel, 'USWNT win the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage | 2023 ESPYS (📍 @CapitalOne)'</https:>

Margaret (or as she goes by in soccer, Tucka) grew up in Palo Alto, California, where there were three teams for players ages 10-16. Tucka made the All Star team as a 10 year old, and she didn't stop there... She shares about her time at Cal (currently tied with Alex Morgan at #3 for most goals scored), moving abroad to Germany and getting a job at a shoe heeling company, and the realities of pro life: "numbers were spray painted on the hotel doors." But according to Tucka, they "loved it all." And Tucka's trailblazing didn't stop there. She went on to be employee #81 at Google, becoming one of the first ad salespeople and subsequently a key member of the YouTube and Google Fiber teams. Contributing expert, Jair Fory, Tucka's coach is interviewed in this episode. Media used in this production: -38 years after making history, first USWNT to be honored at Asheville City regular season finale, Chris Womack, June 29th 2023, <https:> -The Forgotten Early History of Women’s Soccer, Laurent Dubois, January 22, 2016 <https:></https:> -ESPN YouTube Channel, 'USWNT win the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage | 2023 ESPYS (📍 @CapitalOne)'</https:>

When Lori Henry talks about her six year run on the USWNT, she talks about the "little moments along the way," the moments she says that changed her life. She describes making the first team, being the last name called and not hearing it, but having her teammates jump on her in a pig pile. Even the way Lori introduced herself to us was full of humility, "Lori Henry, defender on the '85 original team and made it to the World Cup in '91. Oh, and the captain." Getting there was quite the run as well. Hilariously enough, after decades of facing off against each other growing up, when Lori and Michelle Akers both made the first USWNT in 1985, co-host Akers says she was so relieved to finally being on the same team after growing up having to face off against Lori: "I got so tired of you killing us every time. I never won a high school game against her." The feeling was mutual with Lori responding, "My reaction was 'Thank god' as she had been beating the shit out of me on all these other teams. I was so happy when we had games as the USA because I got to watch her beat the shit out of other people besides me." After soccer, Lori became a coach and then inspired by her own high school P.E. teacher, became a P.E. teacher herself. And so many of her colleagues wanted to talk to us, so we obviously included them all. They describe Lori as a "confidant", "work wife" and the "humblest person I've ever known." Contributing experts include Lori's school colleagues, Nancy, Bill and Mindy. Media used in this production: -38 years after making history, first USWNT to be honored at Asheville City regular season finale, Chris Womack, June 29th 2023, <https:> -The Forgotten Early History of Women’s Soccer, Laurent Dubois, January 22, 2016 <https:></https:> -ESPN YouTube Channel, 'USWNT win the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage | 2023 ESPYS (📍 @CapitalOne)'</https:>

Linda Gancitano was the first girl on her high school boy's soccer team, so she got to play alongside her younger brother, Nick. According to Nick, even at an early age, Linda "never took any guff from anyone" and would slide tackle the biggest male forwards. Flash forward to University of Central Florida (UCF) and Linda was a veteran on the team when Michelle Akers joined -- ironically, the entire time, Michelle thought she was going to get cut. Linda shares that the team had an attitude of "do something or get out of here. Basically, you got to pull your own weight." And that she did, and more... In this episode Linda shares about her time on the USWNT, and we hear from one of her students, Kayla, as Linda became a Happiness Studies teacher and educator as well as Founder, How Low Can You Go Challenge (initiative empowering youth to reduce their school's carbon footprint through reduced energy, water & food waste). When asked what she wants to say to her teammates, Linda gushes, "I am so proud of us and of every single team from then on...whether we won or we didn't...it's just that the tradition of the United States Women's National Team is absolutely incredible." Contributing experts including Linda's brother, Nick, as well as student and mentee Kayla. Media used in this production: -38 years after making history, first USWNT to be honored at Asheville City regular season finale, Chris Womack, June 29th 2023, <https:> -The Forgotten Early History of Women’s Soccer, Laurent Dubois, January 22, 2016 <https:></https:> -ESPN YouTube Channel, 'USWNT win the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage | 2023 ESPYS (📍 @CapitalOne)'</https:>

Stacey Enos is one of the three original University of North Carolina (UNC) Tar Heels to blaze the trail to the USWNT. Stacey was actually the FIRST Tar Heel to earn a cap for the USWNT, but Stacey was used to being the first, or the only one doing something. "I had to play with the boys. I couldn't be afraid. When you got knocked down, I had to pick myself back up," she says. Stacey was the '85er responsible for the recent reunion of the 1985 team, the first reunion since the team played together 38 years ago. As Stacey shares, she wanted to honor her teammates who until this point have largely been unrecognized. No more. As Stacey shares, "the history of US Women's Soccer started with us." And Stacey's fearless trailblazing didn't stop there even though she admits that after college she "felt a little lost" as "there wasn't really a pathway" to get back onto the national team after graduation. So, she became a coach (an infamous one beloved by all), a real estate agent, and most recently partial owner and coach of Asheville City Soccer Club. According to Stacey, she wants her players to be "treated with equity and fairness...put out a quality product in and give these players a chance to succeed." She concludes, that she wants them "to know what respect looks like" even if she didn't have it herself. This episode is cohosted with Michelle Akers. Contributing experts include Stacey's wife, Annie, and son, Gabrielle. Thank you to Stacey and the Asheville City Soccer Club for all of their incredible support in Asheville and since! Media used in this production: -38 years after making history, first USWNT to be honored at Asheville City regular season finale, Chris Womack, June 29th 2023, <https:> -The Forgotten Early History of Women’s Soccer, Laurent Dubois, January 22, 2016 <https:></https:> -ESPN YouTube Channel, 'USWNT win the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage | 2023 ESPYS (📍 @CapitalOne)'</https:>

"What a gritty bunch, you know?" was Ruth Harker's response when asked about her team, the original USWNT. Ruth grew up with her Mom and older brother Steven (who she calls the Harker 'golden boy') who would put peanut butter on her face and hold her down while their dog licked it off. She was a tough cookie who once allowed to play sports, whole heartedly threw herself into them all. She started in goal because she started playing at 14, and "didn't have any foot skills" and the rest is history. Flash forward to today, and things are a bit different. Ruth talks about retiring from soccer because of the need to get paid, the power of pressure, and her hopes for women's soccer moving forward. This episode is cohosted with Michelle Akers. Contributing experts include Ruth's brother, Steven, son, Max, and mentee, Preson. Media used in this production: -38 years after making history, first USWNT to be honored at Asheville City regular season finale, Chris Womack, June 29th 2023, <https:> -The Forgotten Early History of Women’s Soccer, Laurent Dubois, January 22, 2016 <https:></https:> -ESPN YouTube Channel, 'USWNT win the Arthur Ashe Award for Courage | 2023 ESPYS (📍 @CapitalOne)'</https:>

Sofia grew up wanting to do everything her older brother, Tommaso did, so when he took to the slopes, she begged her Mom to let her join. At 6, she forecasted her future: she wanted to be a famous ski racer who would win World Cups. Flash forward to today, and she's crowned the 'queen of speed' with 3x World Cup Downhill title wins and 2x Olympic medals including the first for Italy in her discipline (downhill). That said, Sofia wants her episode to focus on her comebacks, and how she's responded to countless injuries including what she describes as the most challenging time of her life: the 23 days between her debilitating crash in Cortina and taking home silver in Beijing 2022. You read that right... She could barely walk, yet she won silver in the Olympic downhill, the fastest event on skis. When asked about what moment (skiing or not) she's most proud of, she cites two moments: her Olympic gold, and her continuous growth; "The thing that makes me most proud of myself is when I see that I'm becoming a better person." Her goal is to leave a mark on everything she does and everyone with whom she interacts. "I want to make a difference, and it's not only skiing but everything I do. It is good to leave a piece of you in everyone you meet." She cites her incredible support team including her sponsor, Red Bull, as well as friend and mentor, Lindsey Vonn (see quote in podcast graphic) for helping her get to where she is today. As Sofia looks to the future, she's eager to rewrite history in the Cortina 2026 Games. Contributing Expert: Pete Sharland (Digital Editor, Eurosport) Thank you to Dino Cattaneo for making this episode possible. Media clips from the following sources were used: -'Happy Sofia Goggia makes successful comeback in downhill practice: "I was not afraid at all"', Alessandro Poggi, February 12, 2022, Olympics.com -Goggia wins historic Women's Downhill Gold for Italy | Alpine Skiing, Olympics.com -NBC Sports' YouTube Channel, 'Goggia crashes to end streak, Gut-Behrami takes title in Zauchensee', January 15, 2022. - @NBCOlympics Tweet, February 17, 2022. - NBC Sports' YouTube Channel, 'Sofia Goggia completes Lake Louise World Cup sweep with super-G win,' December 5, 2021. - NBC Sports' YouTube Channel, 'Goggia wins World Cup downhill; Johnson second | NBC Sports, December 20, 2021. - FIS Alpine's YouTube Channel, '🏆 Sofia GOGGIA | DH World Cup Champion | "This means a lot to me" | FIS Alpine,' March 4, 2023. - Olympics' YouTube Channel, 'Sofia Goggia's Alpine Skiing Highlights | PyeongChang 2018', March 8, 2018. - The New York Time's YouTube Channel, 'The Sounds of the Downhill', February 15, 2015. - NBC Sports' YouTube Channel, 'Goggia crashes to end streak, Gut-Behrami takes title in Zauchensee,' January 15, 2022.

Yip Pin Xiu is a "born and bred city girl', having grown up in Singapore with her close-knit family flying kites, playing in the sand pool, and at five, getting in the with her brothers. Swimming started as a family activity. Fast forward to 2008, and Pin Xiu became Singapore's first ever Paralympic gold medalist. She now has 5 Paralympic golds and 5 World Championships. She was the first para athlete inducted into Singapore’s Sports Hall of Fame (2015) and a proud inductee of the Women’s Hall of Fame (2014). And while Pin Xiu changed the face of sport in Singapore, her impact hasn't been limited to the pool. Yes, Pin Xiu has all of the honors and titles one can dream of, but she talks more of her commitment to inclusion for all than the medals around her neck. Having grown up in a time when there wasn't a lot of representation for people with disabilities, Pin Xiu is determined to be a voice people hear and a body people see. According to Pin Xiu, "being disabled does not mean unable. Being disabled does not disqualify me" and she hopes to be a voice not for" just the disabled community, but also the sporting community, women, everyone." Contributing expert: Theresa Goh (Singaporean Paralympic Swimmer and Pin Xiu's Teammate) Media Clips from the Following Sources Were Used In Order of Use: -Paralympic Games' YouTube Page, 'A second Gold Medal for Pin Xiu Yip! 🥇 | Women's 50m Backstroke - S2 Final | Swimming | Tokyo 2020' -Entertainment - Mediacorp YouTube Page, 'R U OK? S2 EP 7 Yip Pin Xiu Growing Up Disabled, Staring at Gawkers and Embracing her Noisy Self' -CNA YouTube Page, 'Yip Pin Xiu receives President's Award for Inspiring Achievement' -CMT Research Foundation, The 2021 CMT Global Research Convention, 'What is Happening to My Body' by Dr. Keith Fargo

Sam Mewis grew up flipping over rocks in the woods of Massachusetts hunting for salamanders, while Lynn Williams grew up on a pecan farm with her "huge family of non-farmers" in Clovis, California. Flash forward and the two are inseparable. According to Sam & Lynn, they're in a "very serious platonic friendship." As former roomies who dominated the field together, gone through injuries and covid together, and yes, even podcasted together, they've seen each other through it all. As huge fans and supporters of their podcast, SNACKS, we thought it would be fun to have the duo onto Flame Bearers together. So this episode is a bit different than our normal ones, but we're going with it! This week, soccer superstars Sam & Lynn talk about their upbringings, time in and after Tokyo and getting in front of the mic. Media clips from the following sources were used in this podcast: - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=aMSR7ZmoQDQ - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K6L38gSYbVs - https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/trailer/id1563105123?i=1000517171294 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CJClOqKTrIQ - CNN Sports, Women’s World Cup: The match that changed women’s football, https://www.cnn.com/2019/05/31/football/usa-1999-womens-world-cup-victory-brandi-chastain-mia-hamm-wwc-spt-intl/index.html - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_0olbpl6490 - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q2L-8-rUM7s - https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E6NpXLHdwcI - CBC Sports, American women players settle equal-pay lawsuit vs. U.S. Soccer for $24M, https://www.cbc.ca/sports/soccer/soccer-american-women-equal-pay-1.6359918

<p>Noelle Lambert grew up playing in the dirt and on the field with her older brothers, watching the Pats, Bruins, Celtics, and Red Sox. She was always active, keeping up with the boys. Flash forward to college at UMass Lowell where Noelle is playing Division 1 lacrosse, and she's in an accident that changes everything. While riding a moped, she's sideswiped by a truck and loses her leg.</p> <p><br>Noelle's story is about what has happened since. She's most proud of how she "never let that one moment define the rest of [her] life." She relearned how to walk (and run) and got back out onto the lacrosse field, scoring a goal in her first game back. She founded Born to Run Foundation, a nonprofit providing specialized prosthetics to young adults and children who want to live a fun and fulfilling life. Her goal is to show amputees that having a disability does not mean they are incapable of playing sports and being active, and to show them that being different is something to embrace. After graduating college, she picked up a new sport (one she previously hated), competed in the Tokyo Paralympics, and set a national record in the 100M US.</p> <p>Thank you to Noelle for trusting us to tell her story. Learn more about the Born to Run Foundation <a href="https://theborntorunfoundation.org/">here.</a></p> <p>Follow us on</p> <ul> <li><a href="https://app.resonaterecordings.com/hosting/flame-bearers/@flamebearers">Instagram</a></li> <li><a href="https://app.resonaterecordings.com/hosting/flame-bearers/@Flamebearers">Facebook</a></li> <li><a href="https://twitter.com/flame_bearers">Twitter</a></li> <li><a href="https://www.linkedin.com/company/71067899/admin/">LinkedIn</a></li> </ul> <p>Production Team's Favorite Quote: "Do whatever you need to do in your life to be proud of yourself. You never want to just go through the motions, rather you want to give it 100%. And whatever you do you always want to find your why. Why are you doing this?"</p> <p><br>Contributing Expert: Judy Lambert (Noelle's Mom)</p> <p><br>Audio used from the following sources:<br>-CNN 'Lacrosse star loses leg and becomes a track star<br>-ET Canada's YouTube Channel, 'Noelle Lambert Wants To Become The First Amputee To Win 'Survivor' | SURVIVOR 43'<br>-KREM 2 News' YouTube Channel, ''Survivor' Season 43 premieres 09/21 on KREM 2 | CBS'</p>

Camila goes by Cami, Pirelli, or Pantera Guaraní, the Guaraní Panther; Guarani is the language, and culture of the community of people Camila belongs to, and for Camila, it's important to honor where she comes from. Today, we spotlight Paraguayan track and field star, Pantera, who holds more than a dozen gold and silver medals nationally. Her expertise is Heptathlon, a 7-event competition including the 100-meter hurdles, high jump, shot put, 200-meter run, long jump, javelin, and 800-meter run. All that to say, she's the real deal...and in 7 events! In our conversation she shares about her upbringing in Paraguay, mental health and body image. Thank you to contributing expert Rio Otara (Global Programme Manager, World Association of Girl Guides and Girl Scouts). Media clips were used from the following sources: -SNT Paraguay's YouTube Channel, 'Tokyo 2020: Camila Pirelli con pasaje a Japón' -Somos Gen's YouTube Channel, 'PODEROSAS - Camila Pirelli, Atleta Olímpica Paraguaya' -Alexander Refsum Jensenius's YouTube Channel, 'Sound Action 172 - Running on gravel' -Prashant Bharambe's YouTube Channel 'Open air swimming pool|Sound Effect|Ambience|Exterior|Think sound effects' -Beyond the Game's YouTube Channel 'Celeste Mucci | My Life as a Heptathlete' -BerlinAtmospheres' YouTube Channel 'Car Crash SOUND EFFECT - Auto unfall SOUNDS'

The last time we heard from USA Sitting Volleyball star, Nicky Nieves, she was gearing up for the Tokyo Paralympics, hot after winning gold in Rio. We focused on her identity as an Afro Latina and Black Lives Matter (BLM). I asked her if we have made any progress since our last conversation, "I feel like people are more aware of the differences within race. They're more aware of micro aggressions because more people have spoken out. And to be honest, I think the biggest thing that could happen right now is just a continuation of allyship." Today we discuss Nicky’s life since our last conversation in the fall of 2020: testing positive for COVID 3 days before the Paralympics, mental health, and her look forward to Paris. Nicky opens up about what it was like to watch her team win gold in Tokyo without her, and how she has fundamentally shifted who she plays for. Hint: it's now herself. Contributing experts include Nicky's friends and teammates Sydney Satchell and Emma Schieck

We met Nicky Nieves, USA Sitting Volleyball in Season 1. Our conversation focused on her identity as a proud Afro Latina and the Black Lives Matter movement. Today, we catch up with since our last conversation in the fall of 2020. Nicky's full episode launches Wednesday, April 12th.

Masomah is the first female Olympic cyclist from Afghanistan, and getting to the Olympics hasn't just been a battle against her own skills and competitors, but also against the Taliban. In this episode, Masomah discusses her departure from Afghanistan, journey to Tokyo as part of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) Refugee Team, and how she cycles for not only freedom but also for the solidarity of women everywhere. As Masomah says, she shares her story to make sure Afghan women are heard and represented. According to Masomah, " I'm sure one day, things will change. Now it's like a dark night, but the light of day will arrive...maybe in some years or maybe in some months, but it will arrive. The rights of woman will be given back. So, we have to be hopeful. I continue to think about the women of my country and say that we will never forget you." For our listeners who want to show support from around the world, Masomah shares that Afghan women take notice when women from other countries share their stories. "When they see that people in USA, Europe, and other countries don't forget them, it's big for the women. Even if nothing changes in action, when women of Afghanistan see that people think about them, it gives them hope." Contributing experts include Dr. Sima Samar (Former Chair, Afghanistan Independent Human Rights Commission), Rukhsar Habibzai (Masomah's friend and fellow Afghan professional cyclist), and Zahra Alizada (Sister).

Masomah is the first woman Olympic cyclist from Afghanistan. Her fight to compete and to the podium hasn't just been against her own records and competitors, but with the Taliban. Tune in next Wednesday for Masomah's full episode, in which we discuss her rise to Tokyo as part of the Olympic Refugee team, her bold escape from Afghanistan, and how she cycles for not only freedom but for the solidarity of women everywhere.

Victoria considers herself a proud "Puerto Rican American." Having grown up in the Houston, Texas area. she "was considered a Latina," but then when she went to Puerto Rico, she "was seen as American." According to Victoria, for some, her personal identity falls in a bit of a "gray area." In today's interview, we spotlight Taekwondo superstar, Victoria Stambaugh. She talks about her Puerto Rican identity, and strong faith being her guide. Victoria opens up about how she primarily identifies as a child of God and what this means to her. Massive thank you to Victoria for trusting us to elevate her story! Contributing experts in order of appearance include George Laws Garcia (Executive Director, Puerto Rican Statehood Council) and Mrs. Stambaugh (Victoria's Mother). Clips from the following sources are used in this production: -World TKD YouTube's Page, "Victoria STAMBAUGH PUR - Maddison MOORE GBR" -FOX 26 Houston YouTube's Page, "Houston-area taekwondo athlete representing Puerto Rico in the Olympics" -JoiningAllMovement YouTube's Page, "Olympic Taekwondo Athlete | JAMCast #163 - VICTORIA STAMBAUGH" -JR Videos' YouTube's Page, "National Anthem of Puerto Rico (ES/EN lyrics) - Himno Nacional de Puerto Rico"

Ritah lost her hand when machete and hammer-wielding thieves broke into her Grandma's house in 2005. Today, Ritah is the African Para Badminton Champion and was one of only four Ugandan Paralympians who participated in the Tokyo Paralympics. Today she opens up about losing her hand, and how she's moved forward (including relearning how to write after becoming left-handed). Her north star? Making the best of every day. According to Ritah, "I never feel cheated because I saved so many livest." And it was very important that her that who and how she acted didn't change after the attack either. According to her close friend and classmate, Earn Madrine Nabiwemba "coming back to school with one arm, she was like, you people do not feel sorry for me. This is the same old Ritah and I'm going to do everything I've been doing before now with one arm. Don't feel sorry for me. Treat me the way you've been treating me." Outside badminton, Ritah, like many others with disabilities, has faced employment discrimination. Ritah opens up about these employment struggles and celebrates some very exciting news! As Ritah says: "I am capable of doing anything and everything, just like any other person. That's how I am, and that's how I live." She certainly is. At the end of Ritah's episode, she asks that we all consider a donation to help her continue working towards her dream: Paris 2024. She 's responsible for funding her own training, travel and competitions, so please consider donating to help Ritah get to the Paris Paralympics: https://bit.ly/RitahAsiimwe Contributing experts in order of appearance include Earn Madrine Nabiwemba (Logistician and Ritah's Friend) and Coach Betty (Ritah's Badminton Coach). Media clips from the following sources are used in this production: -Uganda Olympic Committee's YouTube Page, "UGANDA Para-Badminton Player Ritah Asiimwe Ahead Of Her Matches At Paralympic Games" -Badminton Africa's YouTube Page, "Know more about the African Champion and the Paralympian Ritah Asiimwe" -Schwartz Perry & Heller LLP's YouTube Page, "What Exactly Is Disability Discrimination | Ask An Employment Lawyer"

Sneak peek of our upcoming episode with Ugandan Para Badminton Champ, Rita Asiimwe. Ritah was one of 4 Ugandan Paralympians who participated in the Tokyo Paralympics. In her episode, she shares about defending her family against thieves who broke into her grandma’s home, losing her arm to these thieves who assaulted her with machetes and hammers, and how she makes the most of every day.

23-year old Qatari track star Kenza Sossé, qualified for Tokyo, and then days before her flight to Japan, tested positive for COVID-19. After years training for the Olympics, she had watch from a room in Morocco. Her response? She "went back to training harder than ever." In today's conversation, Kenza shares for the first time publicly about the pain of her Olympic dreams being deferred and how she has channeled her frustration into progress towards Paris. Kenza also shares about her commitment to the Arab Women's Movement and common misconceptions about the Arab world including the idea that Arab women are always "in the kitchen, taking care of the babies." Citing her two business startups and the book she wrote, she replies, "My babies are my businesses right now, my book and my sport. So if these count as my babies, then yes, I am a very typical Arab woman. " Production team's favorite quote: "After hearing my story, every listener will be thinking of a passion or something they've always wanted to do. My last message will be to do it. To start whatever it is that comes to mind. Do not be afraid of failure." Contributing guests include Vanessa El Jammal (Kenza's Best Friend) and Ghita Sossé (Kenza's Sister). Clips used from the following sources: - n beats' YouTube Channel, 'Stadium Crowd Sound Effects | One Hour | HQ'

Sneak peek of our upcoming episode with 23 year old Qatari track and field star, Kenza Sossé. Kenza shares about her experience qualifying for the Games and then testing positive for COVID-19 the week of her departure for Tokyo...In Kenza's full episode, she discusses her bounce back after missing the Olympics, and her commitment to the Arab Women's Movement. Tune in next week for her full story. Kenza's full episode launches 2/15.

We met Manasi Joshi in Season 1, when she discussed losing her leg, rehabbing through badminton, and disability policy in India. Today, we follow up with Manasi since our last conversation in the fall of 2020. We discuss her rise to world #1 in both parabadminton singles and mixed doubles and her hopes for the Paris 2024 Paralympics. She also discusses receiving India's Arjuna Award from the President of India (one of the highest sporting honors in India celebrating 'outstanding performance in sports and games'.) That said, when asked what she's most proud of, Manasi' said it's her approach and mentality: "I think to be able to navigate the situations that I've been through, post injury, post picking up a sport. And I'm proud of speaking up for my own rights and the rights of people who are just like me... Right now I'm proud of taking a huge leap of faith without thinking what I'll get in return. I left my job when my sport was not even in the Paralympics. I just wanted to play and push myself." Contributing experts include Kunjan Joshi (Manasi's brother), and Rajendra Kumar (Manasi's Coach). Media clips from the following sources were used: -Pavel Dobynin's YouTube Channel, '07 05 WS SL3 Group B Manasi Girishchandra Joshi VS Oksana Kozyna 2' -Ability Foundation's YouTube Channel, 'Manasi Joshi - Recipient of CKAA 2022' -Republic World's YouTube Channel, 'Manasi Joshi & Pullela Gopichand Speak After Her BWF Para Badminton World Championship Gold' -Para Sport's YouTube Channel, '#MondayMotivation with Manasi Joshi' -limp_noddle YouTube Channel, 'Badminton practice background noise' -Sound Effects YouTube Channel, 'Ambulance Siren Sound'

Sneak peek of our upcoming episode with Manasi Joshi, #1 in Parabadminton singles and doubles. This episode is an Athlete Follow Up with Manasi, who we spotlighted in Season 1. If you would like to hear Manasi's backstory, go back and give her original episode a listen. Manasi's full episode launches 2/2.

Liu Jiayu goes by Birdie because of the height she gets in the half-pipe -- she FLIES. That said, it hasn't always this way. Liu Jiayu started snowboarding at age 11 when the sport didn't really exist in China, so she didn't have people on the mountain she could copy or learn from...she spent her first day falling down the mountain: "It was the kind of day I'll never forget" she says. Flash forward to today, and this 6x World Cup Champion and Olympic silver medalist, is the face of snowboarding in China. She's an Olympic veteran, having competed in four separate Games (2010, 2014, 2018 and 2022), and was the first woman to win an Olympic medal in snowboarding in the history of China (Silver, PyeongChang, 2018). That said, what's most important to Birdie, is having fun and using the sport to grow. In today's episode, Birdie shares about her greatest role model, her grandma, and her prioritization of happiness. "Love yourself. No one else is you, so you have to be the one to have the confidence to be happy with who you are." Production Team's Favorite Quote: "Everybody is the same. Nobody is higher or lower. You just do you." This was our team's favorite quote because it encapsulates Liu's deep humility, which can sometimes evaporate with success. Not for her. Contributing Guest: Susan Brownell (Professor, Anthropology, University of Missouri-St. Louis, China specialist). Media clips from the following sources: - FIS Snowboarding YouTube Page 'Liu Jiayu | "I'm happy to win in China" | Women's Halfpipe | Secret Garden | FIS Snowboard' - Sportsnetwork YouTube Page 'Snowboarder Liu Jiayu wraps up from Universal Sports' - CGTV's "Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics: Chinese Olympian Liu Jiayu shares thoughts on snowboard training and upcoming Winter Games," 11.28.21, https://news.cgtn.com/news/2021-11-28/VHJhbnNjcmlwdDYwNzEw/index.html - "China's 'Birdie' Liu Jiayu: Facing her fears and ready to rock," Ken Browne, 1.26.22, https://olympics.com/en/news/liu-jiayu-snowboard-china-olympics - Cyrus Janssen's YouTube Page 'How Will China Perform at Winter Olympics? Liu Jiayu Could Win Snowboarding Gold'

We heard from quite a few of you that you liked our sneek peaks of upcoming episodes, so given our bi-weekly publishing schedule, we'll drop trailers for who is next in the off weeks. Next week we spotlight Chinese snowboarding phenom, Liu Jiayu. Here's just a bit of what you can expect. Tune in next Wednesday, January 18th for her full story!

We met Alejandra when she did a Flame Bearers social media takeover in the lead up to the Tokyo Paralympics, showing us a day in her life. Alejandra now shares her more including how she went from not knowing how to swim to Paralympian in 7 years. "In 2015 when I started swimming, there was no national para team...so I was responsible for 100% of the resources to compete and train. I had to work 9 hours per day, and after that go and train." She also opens up for first the first time about her traumatic experiences with her former coach, and what she's been doing since Tokyo. We hear from two of Alejandra's best friends, one who was in Alejandra's swimming rehabilitation program 7 years ago (Bethania Diaz) and one who befriended Alejandra after reading her inspiring story in a book (Josephina Dieguez). They share who Alejandra is when the cameras aren't there, and a bit about what her journey means to them and other Dominicans. Contributing Experts include Bethania Diaz (Alejandra's Friend) and Josephina Dieguez (Alejandra's Friend). Thank you to teammates Marissa Potter and Elizabeth Michael for their help with this episode. Media clips from: -Esta Noche Mariasela's YouTube, 'Alejandra Aybar, ingeniera y nadadora paralímpica: nos habla de su condición y sus logros en la vida' -Telemicro's YouTube, 'Alejandra Aybar, Futura medalla de Oro Juegos Paralímpicos 2021 - Zona 5' Photo credit to Ricardo Piantini Hazoury APPLY TO THE FLAME BEARERS FELLOWSHIP below by midnight ET on 1/16. Application here: https://bit.ly/FlameBearersFellowship

We want to honor Alejandra's story to the best of our abilities, so because of the holidays and New Year, we will publish her episode next Wednesday, 1/4. That said, here’s a bit of what you can expect. Tune in next week for her full story!

Dr. Seun Adigun is the first African to compete in both the Summer and Winter Olympics. She spearheaded the first female bobsled team from her country, and track and field runner but that’s not all, she’s also a biomechanist, chiropractor and founder. According to Dr. Adigun, "You have to pave the way so that others can follow." She's deeply dedicated to making sure that while she was the first, she's not the last. In today's episode, we discuss her commitment to diversity and equity within the Olympic movement. Contributing guests (in order of appearance) include Dr. Ketra Armstrong (Professor of Sport Management, Director of the Center for Race and Ethnicity and Sport, School of Kinesiology, University of Michigan), Carlos Mader (Ghanian Olympic Skier), and Chichi Nwaorie (Dr. Seun's friend and colleague). Media clips from the following sources: -Accelerate TV's YouTube, 'Accelerate News - Meet Seun Adigun, The Founder Of The Nigerian Bobsled Team' -TODAY'S YouTube, 'Nigerian Bobsled Team To Make Olympic History In Pyeongchang | Sunday TODAY' VOTE TO SUPPORT FLAME BEARERS: As mentioned in the episode, we are finalists in the Signal Awards in two separate categories: Diversity, Equity and Inclusion for our spotlight on Deja Young, and Public Service and Activism for our spotlight on Ukranian athletes. Please cast your vote to support both of our episodes here (you can vote once in each category): https://bit.ly/FlameBearersSignal APPLY TO THE FLAME BEARERS FELLOWSHIP Application here: bit.ly/FlameBearersFellowship This Fellowship will arm the next generation of women leaders with digital storytelling skills. Fellows will learn how to tell compelling stories via various digital mediums, become ambassadors for the Flame Bearers brand, and network with others passionate about elevating women's voices.

Every 4th episode this season, we’ll circle back with an athlete we’ve previously worked with to update you on her life and what we previously discussed. In Season 1, Deja focused on her ongoing battles with mental health and her attempted suicide. In this new episode, we discuss Deja’s life two years later. She opens up about the huge relief she felt after the Tokyo Paralympics, the birth of her baby girl, Saia Rae, and postpartum depression. Deja is a 3x Paralympic medalist and an outspoken advocate for mental health. She's committed to sharing her experiences so other know they're not alone and can seek help. In this episode we hear from Aja Clarke (Doula & Associate, National Birth Equity Collaborative), Dr. Mickey Sperlich (Trauma Researcher & Assistant Professor, University at Buffalo), Dr. Katayune Kaeni (Psychologist specializing in Perinatal Mental Health & Current Board Chair, Postpartum Support International), and Saia Rae (Deja's daughter). Production Team's Favorite Quote: Deja always keeps it extremely real, whether she's posting on social media or deeply engaged in conversation. When sharing her fear of having a c-section, Deja mentions her fear of mortality at the hands of racism. "The mortality rate for black women in pregnancy in the United States is really high. It's extremely high. So when I heard about c-sections and did my reading on like giving birth, I was terrified because I know a lot of providers don't listen to black women...I ended up having a C-section..It was one of the scariest moments." This was our favorite quote because it was a reality check. RESOURCES FOR POSTPARTUM SUPPORT --------------------------------------------------------------- Dr. Kat Kaeni kindly recommended the following resources: - Postpartum Support International (www.postpartum.net) with countless resources including helplines, experts and mentorship opportunities, and educational materials) - Mom & Mind Podcast (www.momandmind.com) Media clips from the following sources were used in this episode (in order of appearance): - Team USA's YouTube Page: 'Deja Young | Women's 200m T47 Heat 2 | 2016 Paralympic Games' - GoShocker's YouTube Page: 'Deja Young Returns to Wichita State with Two Gold Medals' - Good Morning America's YouTube Page: 'Serena Williams opens up about medical scare after giving birth to baby girl'

We want to honor Deja’s story to the best of our abilities, so because this week is Thanksgiving in the United States, we will publish her episode next Wednesday, 11/30. That said, here’s a bit of what you can expect. Tune in next week for her full story!

Alexa is a 2x Olympian (Tokyo and Rio) and the first Mexican woman to win a World Championship Medal. She's one of the 100 most powerful women in Mexico (via Forbes Magazine), yet according to her manager, Frida Martinez, "She doesn't know she's a role model. That's her superpower. She doesn't know she's that big." In this episode we hear about Alexa's tumultuous rode to Tokyo, her recovery after the Games, and her struggles with cyberbullying. As Alexa has spoken out about being cyberbullied, her influence outside of gymnastics has skyrocketed; she has become a global role model fighting against cyberbullies. Thank you to Alexa for trusting us to share her story on this sensitive matter! This episode was made possible by Dana Mekler and the Harvard Kennedy School's Mexico Conference. Thank you to teammates, Marissa Potter and Elizabeth Michael for your help bringing this story to life. Experts Included: -Frida Martina (Alexa's Manager) -Daniela Cueva (Alexa's Physical Therapist) -Stephanie Frederick, Associate Director, Alberti Center for Bullying Abuse Prevention Media from the following sources were used in this episode (in order of appearance): -TCL Electronics' YouTube Channel: 'Alexa Moreno | Mexican Artistic Gymnast' -Gymnastics' Fun's YouTube Channel: 'Alexa Moreno (MEX) 4th VT EF Tokyo Olympic Games 2020' -Gymnastics' Fun's YouTube Channel: Alexa Moreno (MEX) FX 55th QF Tokyo Olympic Games 2020' -Toyota ad: 'Toyota Presents: Mexican Olympic gymnast, Alexa Moreno, the first Mexican gymnast to ever win a world championship medal...'

Diede de Groot has won 31 majors, is the current world No. 1 in both singles and doubles, and achieved a Golden Grand Slam: winning all four major tournaments in a calendar year (2021). She's also a force off the court; Diede advocates for people with disabilities and adaptive clothing. "It's not always easy to find the proper clothing for people with disabilities." As Diede has racked up record-breaking wins, she's become increasingly outspoken about what matters to her. In fact, despite her countless wins, when asked what she's most proud of, she shared that it's her personal growth and finding of her voice. In this episode, we focus on Diede's commitment to changing the face of disability and adaptive sport. We hear from her childhood role model, Esther Vergeer (7x Paralympic Champion), her manager, Bart van Schijndel and Ian Cropp and Adam Lassner (Citi's Global Sponsorship Team). We hear how Diede got into wheelchair tennis, her experience AFTER the Tokyo Paralympics, and her hopes for the future. Production Team's Favorite Quote: "Tickle yourself a little bit and have a bit of joy every day." Why: Diede is the best in her world at what she does, but always makes time for herself and joy every day. This quote reminds us to always take time to find joy in the moment. Massive shoutout to teammate, Marissa Potter, Director of Brand & Partnerships, for all of her incredible help making this episode. Contributing Experts include: -Esther Vergeer (7x Paralympic Champion & Founder, Esther Vergeer Foundation) -Bart van Schijndel (Diede's Manager, Founder, Sports Stories) -Ian Cropp (Global Sponsorship Manager, International Paralympic Committee, Citi) -Adam Lassner (AVP, Global Sports Sponsorships, Citi) Audio included from the following sources: -US Open Tennis Championships's YouTube Channel: 'Diede De Groot vs. Yui Kamiji Highlights | 2022 US Open Final' -Paralympic Games' YouTube Channel: 'Diede De Groot wins Best Female Athlete | 2021 Paralympic Sports Awards' -Runway of Dreams' YouTube Channel: 'Runway of Dreams Los Angeles 2022 Fashion Revolution' For more behind the scenes coverage, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flamebearers/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FlameBearersPodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/flame_bearers LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flame-bearers/

Sue is one of the most iconic athletes in the world: she's been a professional athlete for 20 years, won 5 gold Olympic medals (2004, 2008, 2012, 2016, 2020) and has become one of the most outspoken advocates for social change. Further, between her Olympic and FIBA World Cup medals, she holds the most medals of any basketball athlete in the world (male or female). She also holds 4 WNBA and 2 NCAA Championships. In this episode, we focus on Sue's commitment to social change and her legacy to the sport. We hear from Sue's big sis, Jen, on how Sue has changed over the years (and why she is so proud of her), former teammate and Coach, Hall of Fame athlete, Coach Dawn Staley, Professional Basketball star, Marina Mabrey, and Sue's two nieces, Zoe (age 9) and Alex (age 7). We hear how Sue got into sports (hint: Jen played a big role), how she's always stomped the pavement for others, and her hopes for the future of basketball. Production Team's Favorite Quote: While Sue has been a champion for countless social causes, she doesn't call herself an activist because "that is a full time job...I'm trying to do my part, but that's almost too big of a compliment, but obviously I do feel very strongly about a lot of things." Why: Sue's reverence for activism as a full time role, deserving of credit and support deeply impressed us Massive shoutout to teammate, Marissa Potter, Director of Brand & Partnerships, for all of her incredible help making this episode. Thank you to the Wasserman team for making this interview possible and for all of your support: Lindsay Colas, Tracy Hughes, and Annie Takahashi. Contributing experts include: -Jennifer Bird (Sue's Sister) -Coach Dawn Staley (Sue's Former Teammate & Coach, Hall of Famer & Head Coach of the South Carolina Gamecocks) -Marina Mabrey (Professional Basketball Player, Dallas Wings) -Zoe & Alex Bird (Sue's Nieces) Audio included from the following sources: - Women Hooping's YouTube Channel: 'Sue Bird Hits Final Shot In New York To Clinch Win, Crowd Gives Standing Ovation Saluting Her Career' - WNBA's YouTube Channel: 'Best Of Sue Bird’s 3,000 Assists' - WCNC's YouTube Channel: 'Tokyo Olympics | Sue Bird' - Uninterrupted Love Is Manifesto from uninterrupted.com/loveis - CNN's YouTube Channel: 'WNBA players strike balance between athletics and activism' - 60 Minutes' YouTube Channel: 'Sue Bird on going public with her relationship with Megan Rapinoe' - March Madness' YouTube Channel: 'Best of Sue Bird and Diana Taurasi in the Final Four for UConn' - ESPN's YouTube Channel: 'Marina Mabrey drops CAREER-HIGH 31 PTS as Dallas Wings clinch playoff berth! | WNBA on ESPN' - Seattle Storm Official's YouTube Channel: 'Sue Bird | Press Conference | Sue Announces Retirement' For more behind the scenes coverage, follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flamebearers/?hl=en Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FlameBearersPodcast/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/flame_bearers LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flame-bearers/

Flame Bearers: Keeping the Fire Burning spotlights women Olympians and Paralympians who sought to compete in the Tokyo Summer or Beijing Winter Olympics and Paralympics. In this season, we discuss what happens AFTER the Games, when the fans and cameras go home. We’re going beyond the glamour to see how these women stay focused when the focus isn’t on them. First full episode drops Wednesday, October 12th. Flame Bearers is the first and only global storytelling platform for women Olympians and Paralympians. We celebrate the journeys of unsung athletes alongside household names. We use sport as a conduit for social justice issues and provide action-oriented analysis of the issues closest to their hearts. Tune into all podcast episodes, wherever you get your podcasts including: -Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast... -Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/7sLW663... -Google Podcasts: https://podcasts.google.com/feed/aHR0... Learn more about Flame Bearers here: flamebearerspodcast.com Social Media Handles: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/flamebearer... Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/FlameBearers... Twitter: https://twitter.com/flamebearers LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/flam... #womensupportingwomen #olympics #paralympics #womenathletes #femaleathlete #womenempowerment #womeninsports #womenleadership #womenleaders

Simidele (Simi) was the first African and black woman to compete in Skeleton at the Olympics, and more recently, the first African to take home gold at an international bobsled competition: "We don't have the facilities [in Nigeria], and we don't have the equipment, so to know that I was going into that space with a lot of barriers, and to know that I was still able to win was very symbolic. It showed me what was possible." While Simi just missed qualifying for Beijing in the monobob, this Olympian (2018) was a voice we wanted to elevate because she’s breaking records and boundaries for her country of Nigeria and her new sport, monobob. In this episode, Simi talks about why diversity in sport matters and her new book, Sleigh, Sleigh, Sleigh All Day. Contributing Expert: April Holmes (4X Paralympian, 3X Paralympic Medalist)

In light of Russian war on Ukraine, this special edition episode is different than our normal episodes. In an effort to elevate Ukranian voices and the connection between sports and politics, we speak with three elite Ukrainian athletes: Valentina Molchanets (Professional Triathlete and European Champion, Aquathlon, U23), Vita Oleksiuk (Paralympian, Currently #5 in World Paratriathlon ranking, 10th place Tokyo 2020 Paralympic Games), and Olena Kryvystka (3X Olympian, 3x World Championships Bronze Medalist). We highlight the realities of the war in Ukraine and the messages they want the world to hear. Experts interviewed: Dr. Emily, Channell Justice (Director, Temerty Contemporary Ukraine Program, Ukrainian Research Institute, Harvard University) and Yuriy Sak (Ukrainian, Ministry of Defense, Communications). RESOURCES TO TAKE ACTION: Courtesy of Dr. Emily, Channell Justice (Director, Temerty Contemporary Ukraine Program, Ukrainian Research Institute, Harvard University), ALL RESOURCES OUTLINED HERE: https://huri.harvard.edu/russia-ukraine-war Calling out a few links that could be particularly useful -Comprehensive list of ways foreigners can help Ukraine (compiled by Global Shapers Community (born out of World Economic Forum) and supported by Cabinet of Ministers of Ukraine): https://supportukrainenow.org/ -Donate to The Kyiv Independent to support Ukrainian English-language journalism: https://www.gofundme.com/f/kyivindependent-launch or https://www.patreon.com/kyivindependent -Petition to ask NATO to close Ukrainian airspace/create a no-fly zone: https://www.openpetition.eu/petition/online/people-around-the-world-ask-nato-to-close-the-airspace-over-ukraine -Follow these Twitter accounts for news: @KyivIndependent, @NewVoiceUkraine, @KyivPost -Contact your congressional representatives to demand they stand with Ukraine: https://actionnetwork.org/letters/stand-with-ukraine This episode was a true team effort. Thank you Roman Korol (Coach, Ukranian National Paratriathlon team), for making our speaking with Valentyna and Vita possible, to high school friend, Sasha Kamenetska for working with your family and friends to help us find a Ukranian translator, to Anna Synakh for making this episode possible in Ukranian, to classmate Ilya Timtchenko (Head of Ukraine, REDD Intelligence) and classmate and friend, Grace Stone for your English voiceover for Vita. Sources Used in this episode -TIME's YouTube, 'Ukrainian Paralympians Protest Russian Invasion' -WION's YouTube, 'Amid Russian invasion, Ukrainian athletes make it Beijing for winter Paralympics' -Paralympic Games' YouTube, 'Andrew Parsons' Beijing 2022 Opening Statement | Paralympic Games' -NBC Sports' YouTube, 'Ukrainian athletes deliver powerful Opening Ceremony moments | NBC Sports' -NBC Sports' YouTube, 'Ukrainians SWEEP PODIUM in emotional Para biathlon finish | NBC Sports' -Paralympic Games' YouTube, '🇺🇦 Ukraine's Grygorii Vovchynskyi celebrates victory after Paralympic GOLD | Paralympic Games' -Paralympic Games' YouTube, '🇺🇦 Ukraine's Oksana Shyshkova Incredible Gold Medal Finish! | Beijing 2022 Paralympic Winter Games'

When Mihaela was 9, she went to a park and saw some kids inline skating. She didn't realize it was actually for the winter sport of speed skating, but she was curious enough to give it a try herself: "In that moment, I decided my life. Here I am 13 years later, still doing it" despite the fact that Romania doesn't have any rinks for her to train on. Mihaela is now her country's fastest female speed skater. In this episode, Mihaela reveals how the life of a professional athlete during COVID-19 has actually been quite lonely (even in the Olympic village), and what it means to her and others to be the fastest female Romanian Speed Skater in the world. We hear from her sister, Adina, nephew, Darius, and two best friends, Florentina and Madalina.

3x Paralympic Gold Medalist, Kendall Gretsch is one of the only athletes who competed in Tokyo this past summer who is also competing in Beijing. Less than 6 months ago Kendall won gold in Paratriathlon, and she's now one of the Para Nordic favorites in Beijing. In this episode we talk about how Kendall got into para sports, what the postponement meant for her, and her goals for the future. Contributing experts include Emily Allison (Kendall's Roomate) and Patrick Criteser (CEO & President, Tillamook). Media clips from: -NBC Sports' YouTube, Kendall Gretsch's INCREDIBLE sprint finish steals Paratriathlon gold | NBC Sports -Paralympic Game's YouTube, Victory Ceremony | Women's Biathlon| Sprint sitting | PyeongChang2018 Paralympic Winter Games

Dr. Natalia Siuba-Jarosz is an elite Polish Parasnowboarder and Doctor in Radiology. She has gone by Simba ever since her last name was misspelled in grade school, and the nickname stuck. In this episode we hear how Natalia balances both the world's of elite snowboarding and being a doctor, as well as her thoughts on women in the sport. Hint: we need more women. "Now it's changing, but almost all of the coaches from other teams are men...It's hard to be a disabled woman in Poland." Hear more via Simba's new Flame Bearers podcast, live wherever you get your podcasts. Contributing experts include Margorzata Kelm (Natalia's Coach) and Maciek Jarosz (Natalia's Husband). Media clips from: -Paralympic Games' YouTube, Lillehammer 2021 | Para Snowboard | Dual Banked Slalom (m/w) | WPSS Championships -Paralympic Games' YouTube, Para Snowboard: Sports of the Paralympic Winter Games

Valentina or 'The Lioness' grew up in Italy as a 'very competitive child' with her three sisters and one brother. She describes her heritage as "the perfect mix" of cultures, crediting each of her parents and their respective origins with various parts of who she is today (her Dad is from Italy and her Mom is from the Ivory Coast). Valentina is the first Italian to ever win a Skeleton medal in the World Championships and she’s now poised to dominate the ice in Beijing. In this episode we talk about how she got into the sport, changing weight restrictions and how this impacts her push, and how she got her trademark name the Lioness because of her big fabulous curly hair. Contributing expert: Andrea Gallina (coach and boyfriend) Media clips from: -RTL 102.5's YouTube, Valentina Margaglio: torna l'appuntamento con "Fisi News" -IBSF Bobsleigh & Skeleton's YouTube, Tina Hermann shines once again in Saxony | IBSF Official -IBSF Bobsleigh & Skeleton's YouTube, Margaglio/Gaspari: "It was a miracle on ice" | IBSF Official -InfoByte's TV's YouTube, Olympics: An Animated History of Skeleton Sledding

When Aline was 15 years old, she was in a car accident that paralyzed her from the waist down. That said, she says "sport changed my life, not the accident." According to Aline sport gave her wings, the ability to travel, and to meet people from all over the world. In this episode, we speak with Brazilian Paralympic cross-country skier, Aline Roche about her passion for sport, and what it’s like to be the only female para cross country skier from all of South America competing in the 2022 Winter Games. As a former Flag Bearer for her nation and someone who has competed in both the Summer and Winter Paralympics, we also discuss what it's like to be disabled in Brazil and her hopes for women in para sports for the future. Contributing expert include Fernando Orso (Aline's Coach and Husband), Dr. Mônica da Silva Araujo (PhD in Anthropology and Professor, Department of Social Sciences, Federal University of Piauí, Brazil) This episode was made possible by Michael Cerqueria. Thank you for your translation help, Michael!

Mialitiana (Mia) is the first woman Winter Olympian from Madagascar and her goal is to "inspire all Africans." While she grew up in France with her adoptive parents, a big part of Mia's identity is as a Malagasy, and she wants to be living proof that a black African woman can reach the top in this sport. In this episode, Mia shares what it means to be the first and only Malagasy woman to compete in the Winter Olympics, as well as about her remarkable recovery from her broken tibia and fibula less than a year ago. Contributing experts include Stéphane Clerc (Mia's Father), and Elodie (Mia's Friend). Media clips from: -Philippe rAz YouTube, 'mia clerc ski Courchevel World Cup' -Mia Clerc Ski YouTube, 'Mia Clerc Ski France3 Alpes JO 2018' -Olympics' Youtube, '16-year-old Malagasy Clerc competes in the Women's Giant Slalom | Winter Olympics 2018 | PyeongChang' -Mr History YouTube, 'A Super Quick History of Madagascar' -Geography NOW YouTube, 'Geography Now! MADAGASCAR' -Al Jazeera English YouTube, 'Why people in Madagascar are starving | Start Here' -WION YouTube, '10 casualties with over 500 people displaced due to flash floods in Madagascar| WION Climate Tracker'

Reigning Olympic gold medalist, Mariama Jamanka never thought the words 'Olympic Champion' would apply to her, as a relative newcomer to bobsledding and as a member of the former 2nd German sled. In PyeongChang, Mariama and brakewoman, Lisa Buckwitz shattered all expectations, shocking the world by winning gold. In this episode, we speak with Mariama about her underdog gold medal and what it’s like being a woman of color bobsledder. Going into the 2018 Games she kept thinking, "We are not the favorites. I have never won a medal for first place." Hear how things have changed. Contributing experts include Heike Größwang (Secretary General, International Bobsleigh and Skeleton Federation) and Jerry Brewer (National sports columnist for the Washington Post). Media Clips from: -NBC Sports' 'Black Bobsledders Make History - 2018 Winter Olympics' -Olympics.com's 'Germany's Mariama Jamanka takes Women's Gold | Bobsleigh' -IBSF 'Highlights BMW World Cup women's bobsleigh in Innsbruck - Igls' Facebook Post -Sunflowerboy_xd 74 YouTube, COOL RUNNINGS | The Second Race ["Feel the Rhythm! Feel the Rhyme!" ] -IBSF 'From summer to Winter Olympics' Facebook Post

US Olympic bronze medalist and 2X National Champion figure skater, Bradie Tennell has already made a career out of breaking records…and unfortunately her feet. As of Dec. 31 2021, (just after this interview was recorded), Bradie made the tough decision to withdraw from figure skating Nationals due to her chronic foot injury. Though Bradie’s path to the Beijing Olympics ends here, her journey is well worth celebrating as a fantastic example of her prioritizing herself and her love of the sport over pushing and risking life-long injury. In this episode, we talk about Bradie's passion for figure skating, her decision to opt out of Nationals, and how she overcomes hardship.

To kick off Season 2, we speak with 2x Russian Paralympian (soon to be 3x), biathlete and wheelchair racer, Akzhana Abdikarmova. She shares what it means to represent the Russian Olympic Committee (ROC) and sheds light on the invisibility of disability in Russia, how it has evolved, and how it hasn’t over the past 30 years. Akzhana grew up with spina bifida and is constantly looking for ways to inspire local youth with disabilities; that's why she started several Instagram accounts amplifying the experiences of disabled athletes (@Gromova Team and @Gromovateam_junior) . Akzhana says that young para athletes are the individuals who motivate her the most, especially throughout the pandemic when she's been largely isolated: "I need to be their motivation and their role model. I'm doing this for them." Contributing experts include: Mary Yntema (President and CEO, WorldBoston), and Denise Roza (Founder and Director, Perspektiva). Media Clips from: -Paralympic Games' YouTube, 'Middle distance sitting | Cross-country skiing | PyeongChang2018 Paralympic Winter Games' -Paralympic Games' YouTube, 'Women's 400 m T53 | Victory Ceremony | 2016 IPC Athletics European Championships Grosseto' -RT's YouTube, 'Entire Russian Paralympic team banned from Rio Games' -BBC New's YouTube, 'Russian athletes banned from Rio 2016 - BBC News' -Vox's YouTube, 'How ski warfare created biathlon' -Team USA's YouTube, 'Paralympic Biathlon | U.S. Paralympics' -Paralympic Games' YouTube, 'Sports of the Paralympic Winter Games: Biathlon' -Channel 4 News' YouTube, 'Disability and Russia, a strange relationship'

It’s been a while since the Tokyo Olympics and Paralympics, but we wanted to amplify and celebrate a voice the world missed in Japan. 2x Olympic gold medalist and 3x World Champion runner, Caster Semenya was barred from competing in her events because of her higher than 'normal' testosterone levels. Caster was legally blocked by the International Association of Athletics Federations (now World Athletics) from competing unless she changed her natural body via hormone shots, surgery, or birth control pills. She didn’t. In this episode, Caster shares her triumphs and challenges, and opens up about what this journey has been like for her. Just three days ago the International Olympic Committee (IOC) stated that testosterone will not determine sex eligibility in future Games, but as we know, Tokyo has come and gone. That said, as Caster selflessly says, "This is about the future, the young ones". Caster, you deeply inspire us with your courage, strength, and determination. Thank you for trusting us to tell your story. Contributing experts in order of appearance include: Becky Motumo Molete (Managing Director, Afrimogul Sports Talent, Caster's Manager); Dr. Jessica Kremen (Pediatric Endocrine Physician, Boston Children's Hospital), and Dr. Ole-Petter Hamnvik (Co-Director, Transgender Health Program, Brigham and Women's Hospital). Thank you to Harvard Kennedy School's Dr. Zoe Marks and to Middlebury College's Dr. Karin Hanta for your editing guidance. Media clips from: -NBC Sports' YouTube, 'Caster Semenya wins women's 800 meter final at 2016 Rio Olympics' -CBS Sports' YouTube, 'Caster Semenya Takes 400M Race with Furious Finish' -World Athletics' YouTube, 'Women's 800m Final | IAAF World Championships London 2017' -SuperSport's YouTube, 'In Conversation with Caster Semenya' -eNCA's YouTube, 'Caster Semenya breaks her silence' -NPR's 'Olympic Runner Caster Semenya Wants To Compete, Not Defend Her Womanhood' -NPR's ''I Am A Woman': Track Star Caster Semenya Continues Her Fight To Compete As Female' -NPR's 'Olympic Runner Caster Semenya Wants To Compete, Not Defend Her Womanhood' -Olympics.com's 'DSD athletes: What does it mean to be DSD and how gender and sex are the big issues in athletics' -SABC News' YouTube, 'Caster Semenya says her battle with IAAF is a fight for Human Rights'

Kamila started taekwondo when she was 9 years old and was the only girl on the team; years later, she's still the only woman, this time on Kazakhstan's Parataekwondo Paralympic team. In this episode, we speak with Kamila and her coach, Sultan, with the help of her friend and colleague, Meyept, Manager, National Paralympic Committee of Kazakhstan who translated our conversation live from Russian. In this conversation we discuss what it's meant for Kamila to be the only woman throughout her journey as well as how she's navigated her disability.

Jessica Long is one of the most successful athletes in Paralympic Games' history, holding 23 medals with 13 of them being gold. As she heads into her fifth Paralympics, Jessica shares that while her gold medals are "super cool", for her, it's "really about the journey." In this episode, this naturalized American swimmer from Russia shares what it's like to grow up adopted, without legs, and born on a leap year, and how she strived to find perfection as a means to fill what she felt were voids in her life. Jessica lets us in on her connection to God and discusses how her faith has evolved over time.

At the age of four, Ni Negah Widiasih lost use of her legs at age four due to polio. In Rio she made history, becoming Indonesia's first Paralympic powerlifting medalist. Ni Negah is a firm believer that 'You were born to stand out, to be appreciated and loved for who you are.' According to her, her journey to Tokyo is thanks to the unwavering support of her family and friends. Despite her unique set of challenges, Ni Negah is determined to go for the gold while rolling with the punches. I spoke with her with the support of a translator, Rea Candra if any when there where times when she preferred to speak in Indonesian. Contributing experts include Carol Pandak, Rotary’s Director of PolioPlus; Rea Candra, Translator

In this episode, we speak with 4X Pan American Games' gold medallist and soon to be 2X Canadian Olympic Jacqueline Simoneau. At home, she's Jacqueline and in the pool, she goes by Jackie. We hear how her journey to the Olympic pool has been “synchronized” with hard work, a touch of glamour and the loving support of family and friends. We explore how the sport of artistic swimming evolved from the days of vaudeville as well as how gender plays a role in unexpected ways. Contributing experts include: Lynda South-Simoneau (Mother), Rob Simoneau (Father), Christian Simoneau (Brother), Claudia Holzner (Current Duet Partner for Tokyo), Steven Findlay (Jacqueline's Boyfriend), Eric Myles (Chief of Sports, Canadian Olympic Committee), and Vicki Valosik (Professor, Georgetown University). Audio clips from: FINA's Artistic Swimming World Series 2021's Jacqueline Simoneau's 'Mesmerising Solo Free Routine', Summer sports' Jacqueline Simoneau/Karine Thomas - synchronized swimming Duet Final - pan am games toronto 2015, TheThings Celebrity '12 Strict Rules Synchronized Swimmers Have To Follow', The Hearts Center Community's 'Song - Canadian national anthem "O Canada"—All four verses!', and CBS Sports' Synchro Swimmers Karine Thomas and Jacqueline Simoneau - Partnership.

At age five, Danusia watched Elena Zamolodchikova of Russia compete on TV, and decided then and there that she wanted to be an Olympic gymnast. 22 years later, Danusia's dream is coming true: she'll be Jamaica's second-ever Olympic gymnast. In this episode, we begin by talking about how Danusia got into gymnastics, talk about what it means to represent Jamaica, and transition to discuss the power of positive manifestation. Danusia has missed the last two Olympics by literally one spot each, so she knows a thing or two about resilience, and she wants to pass it on. Contributing experts include: Wanda Tebby (Danusia's Mother), Ms. Val (Danusia's Gymnastics Coach, UCLA), and Devon Harris (Founding Member, Jamaican Bobsled Team).

Being a "non traditional athlete" with brachial plexus has never held Deja back. Even though her condition was caused by medical malpractice during her birth, this 2x Paralympic gold medalist (100m & 200m) says she wouldn't change a thing if she could: she's where she is today because of what she's been through. In this episode, we talk about what it was like growing up with brachial plexus (also called shoulder dystocia), explore how she got into running, and turn to Deja’s ongoing battles with mental health, including her attempted suicide. We end with Deja’s choice to be an outspoken advocate for mental health issues and her offer to be there for others so they never feel alone. Thank you to Deja for her incredible honesty and leadership in mental health and suicide prevention. NOTE: This episode contains themes that some people may find upsetting, including descriptions of depression and suicide. Contributing experts include Delora Young (Deja's Mom) and Professor Rosemary Purcell (Head of Elite Sports and Mental Health, University of Melbourne). Audio from YouTube, 'Athletics | Women's 100m - T47 Final | Rio 2016 Paralympic Games'; PBS's 'The Americans with Disabilities Act at 30 years: What comes next?' SUPPORT RESOURCES: In Deja's episode we promised to share support resources. Please note this list is not comprehensive, and nor does sharing links equate to endorsements; rather this is our attempt to amplify the important work being done and to help provide listeners with resources so they know they are not alone. -Find your local helpline across international lines: https://findahelpline.com/i/iasp -Learn about Athletes for Hope and how athletes everywhere experience mental illness. Also watch Victoria Garrick of USC share her personal story in this TEDxUSC talk called Athletes and Mental Health: The Hidden Opponent: https://bit.ly/AthletesForHope -Learn about National Institute for Mental Health's helplines and finding the right provider for you: https://bit.ly/NIMHDeja -Call 800-273-8255 24/7 to speak with someone via the National Suicide Prevention Hotline. Learn more here: https://bit.ly/NSPLDeja -Text "NAMI" to 741741 for 24/7, confidential, free crisis counseling via the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Learn more here: https://bit.ly/NAMIDeja

To date, Ray is the only Lebanese athlete who has qualified for Tokyo, but Ray is used to blazing her own trails: she was the first Arab female Olympic Trapshooter, a United Nations Goodwill Ambassador, Ammunition Line entrepreneur, Academy founder, and servant leader for her country of Lebanon. She's definitely someone to keep in your crosshairs! In this episode, we speak with 6x World Champion medalist in trap shooting, Ray Bassil, who has broken nearly every possible barrier in her home country of Lebanon. We discuss the challenges she faces living in Lebanon during a global pandemic and the recent explosion in Beirut. Lastly, we explore Ray’s leadership for her country and the United Nations Development Program for youth and gender equality. Contributing experts include Gracia Makhlouf (Ray's Mental Coach); Professor Ella Bell (Professor, Tuck School of Business); and Professor Carmen Geha (Activist and Associate Professor, Public Administration, American University of Beirut). Audio clips from Trap Women Final - 2016 ISSF World Cup in all events in Rio de Janeiro (BRA); Alarabiya News' 'Lebanese women trapshooting champion speaks about her achievements'; and Baschieri & Pellagri: interview with Ray Bassil.

Sarah Davies is Great Britain's best ever female weightlifter on a pound for pound basis, lifting between 100-125kg (or 220-275 lbs) depending on the event, snatch or clean and jerk. She's also an international beauty pageant queen. Sarah’s journey is about defying convention, whether it’s in beauty pageantry or weightlifting: she goes for what she wants, and takes action for what she believes is right, even when she has to go against the grain. Across the worlds of sport and pageantry, Sarah is breaking unspoken rules of convention. In this episode, we talk about what it’s like being a female olympic weightlifter AND beauty pageant queen while taking on corrupt leadership inside the international Weightlifting Federation, the governing body for international weightlifting. We start with how she got into weightlifting, discuss how her love for weightlifting and pageantry connect, and then dive into her efforts to clean up the IWF as chair of the athlete’s commission. Contributing experts include Stephanie Best (Sarah's best friend), Holly Pirrie (Sarah's Former Pageant Director, Pageant Girl), Phil Andrews (CEO, USA Weightlifting), Dick Pound (Senior Active Member, International Olympic Committee), and Spencer Harris (Associate Professor of Sport Management, College of Business, University of Colorado in Colorado Springs).

Carlotta is not only a Vice World and European Champion, but also an outspoken activist who leads by thoughtful example. She believes that inaction is action in and of itself, whether it comes to racism or environmentalism. Carlotta grew up competing as the only black rower in her community and knows what it's like to be known for her skin color before people see her character. She fell in love with our planet during the many hours she's rowed outdoors and has taken it upon herself to minimize the environmental impact of the entire Germany Rowing Team. Now at age 25 and on her way to Tokyo, she's using her platform to create positive social change for antiracism and environmentalism. In this episode, German Olympic Rower Carlotta discusses the implications of race and what it means to be a black female rower in a predominantly white sport. She also talks about how rowing in the outdoors birthed a passion for environmentalism and how the German national rowing team is combating the climate crisis. Experts interviewed include Sabine Grages-Nwajide (Carlotta's Mother); Kim Brennan (16X National Champion, 3x Olympic Medalist); and Arshay Cooper (Rower & Award-Winning Author, A Most Beautiful Thing). Media clips from YouTube's 'Olympic rowing, explained', and Jamie Margolin's TEDxYouth@Columbia 'Patriarchy, racism, and colonialism caused the climate crisis'

Eliza showed up to her first fencing class in a dress and little patent leather shoes because she wanted to make a good first impression. In tow, came siblings Robert Junior and Gracie. Flash forward to today, she's currently ranked as the #6 fencer in the world. In this episode, US sabre fencer, Eliza Stone, discusses how a small pizza shop changed the trajectory of her family’s life, and how her siblings fueled her to become one of the world's best fencers. Eliza also discusses why it’s so important for her to view fencing as something to be celebrated regardless of the outcomes and share what it’s like when things don’t go to plan. Experts interviewed include Grace Stone (sister), Robert Stone (Father), and Dr. Robin Taylor (Senior Lecturer, Coaching and Performance, University of Central Lancashire) Audio from: Budapest Worlds SWS 2019 - L16 - Stone USA v Zagunis USA (Commentary) YouTube Video and Cincinnati SWS 2018 - L8 - Eliza Stone v Tori Johnson YouTube Video

Tamara (Tami) basó los 18 años, más de lo previsto. Ahora tiene 23 años y se está convirtiendo en una de las mejores jugadoras de tenis de mesa del mundo. Ella nació con la espina bifida. Tami fue la primera jugadora de tenis de mesa Chilena en ganar oro en los Juegos Parapanamericanos, y es la primera jugadora de tenis de mesa chilena en clasificar para los Juegos Paralímpicos de Tokio. En este episodio, Tamara habla sobre su experiencia de tener la espina bífida y sus sueños para el futuro. Expertos incluidos: Paola Leonelli (la madre de Tami), Judy Thibadeau (Directora de Investigación y Servicios de la Asociación de Espina Bífida, y Ricardo Elizalde (el Presidente, Comité Paralímpico de Chile) La traducción de Judy es de Julisa Salas. Gracias a Gonzalo Jara para su ayuda tambien. Audio de: Team USA's Opening Ceremony, 2019 Parapan American Games YouTube page.

Tamara (Tami) was introduced to table tennis in a rehabilitation center: Tami was born with spina bifida and had a life expectancy of 18. She is now 23 years old, the first Chilean table tennis player to win gold at the Parapan American Games, and on her way to Tokyo. Tamara's ability to reach and connect with a wide range of people is almost as impressive as her constantly changing colored hair (most recently red, and purple before), and she's leveraged those skills to become an outspoken advocate for members of the disabled community. In this episode, Tamara discusses player discusses her experience with spina bifida and her dreams for the future. Featured contributing experts in order of appearance include Paola Leonelli (mother), Judy Thibadeau (Director of Research and Services, Spina Bifida Association), and Ricardo Elizalde (President of the Chilean Paralympic Committee). English voice overs: Michele Mittelman, Melissa Mittelman and Kyle Harrold. Audio clips from Team USA's Opening Ceremony, 2019 Parapan American Games YouTube page.

You've already met some of our incredible athletes, but we wanted to provide you with an even more unfiltered snapshot of who they are. As bonus content, we sat down with an intimate group to discuss their resiliency during the Games' postponement and their wishes moving forward. Brought to you in partnership with the student-led Harvard Kennedy School’s Women in Power Conference, this discussion is kicked off by Flame Bearers producer, Sara Asad, and moderated by world-renowned sports journalist, Jane McManus. The conversation is with Haydy Morsy (Egypt, Modern Pentathlon), Katarina Roxon (Canada, Para-Swimming) Nicky Nieves (USA, Sitting Volleyball), and Sarah Davies (Great Britain, Weightlifting).

2016 Paralympic silver medalist, 2x World Champion, and 5x World medalist, Sophia Herzog is passionate about breaking stereotypes. She grew up in a small town of 450 people and was the first person with a disability to go to through her town's high school, so she's used to being the first. In this episode, Sophia opens up about her experience underwater and under most people’s eyeline as well as using her platform as a professional athlete to inspire social change. This episode was made possible by the Women's Sports Foundation. Contributing experts include Nick Gibb (Sophia's partner) Alana Nichols (Former President, Women's Sports Foundation), and Mark Povinelli (President, Little People of America).

When Haydy won the 2019 Pentathlon African Championship, she became the first athlete worldwide to qualify for Tokyo. She now hopes to become the first Egyptian woman to compete in two different Olympic sports: she will be competing in modern pentathlon, and she's additionally hoping to qualify in fencing. In this episode, Haydy Morsy discusses trailblazing as a young woman athlete and aspiring sports journalist. We’ll begin by exploring how Haydy got into Modern pentathlon, learn about how her family has supported her, and then meet the mentor who helped pave the way for Haydy’s second career as a future sports journalist. Experts interviewed include Ahmed Morsy (Haydy's brother), Kata Stevens (Journalist and Audio Producer) Inas Mazhar (Deputy Editor-in-Chief and Head of Sports Section, Al Ahram Weelky Newspaper & Professor of Sports Media, American University in Cairo), Moamen Gouda (Associate Professor, Middle East Economics, Hankuk University of Foreign Studies; Associate Lecturer, Hamburg University in the program of Law and Economics in the Middle East), and Salma El-Naqqash (Feminist Researcher & Program Analyst, UN Women's “Safe Cities and Safe Public Spaces for women and girls in Egypt”). Audio from: UIPM Modern Pentathlon's July 16, 2019 Facebook post, Olympic Channel's "Sport guide: Modern Pentathlon Explained", and TIME's "The Uprising: Reflections on the Egyptian Revolution by Dominic Nahr."

Naya Tapper is a leading try scorer for Team USA's Rugby Team. She wanted to be the "first girl in the NFL" but when she found rugby, she was hooked. In this episode, Naya Tapper of the USA Women’s Rugby Team discusses finding rugby, self love and speaking out about racial justice. We’ll start by learning how Naya got into rugby, hear how it’s shaped her personal understanding of beauty, and end with why she believes athletes like herself have an opportunity and responsibility to advocate for the Black Lives Matter movement. Experts interviewed include Noel Tapper (Naya's Sister), Professor Cornell Brooks (Director of the William Monroe Trotter Collaborative for Social Justice, Harvard Kennedy School), and Carlin Isles (Naya's Friend, USA Men's Rugby).

Madeleine (Maca) and Tanya are close friends who play for the Australian beach handball team. They both juggle full time jobs: Maca is a lawyer and Tanya a teacher. Tanya also has ulcerative colitis. In this episode, Maca and Tanya discuss the pressures of managing professional careers and health on top of being elite athletes. Experts interviewed include Debbie Beths (Tanya's mother), Dr. Steven D. Pearson (President, Institute for Clinical and Economic Review), Dr. Leonora Risse (Applied Economist, RMIT University), Ebiye Jeremy Udo-Udoma (USA Men's Beach Handball Team), and Janet McAffe (Madeleine's mother). Audio clips from YouTube's Beach Handball - China vs Australia, ANOC World Beach Games Qatar 2019, Anne-Marie Slaughter: Can we all "have it all"?, and Lean In: Women, Work and the Will to Lead.

Kimberly didn’t start running until she was 27 -- she's now 30. In her 2019 debut race, the World Para Athletics Championships in Dubai, she came away with a silver and bronze medal in the 200m and 100m. She's seeking to compete on the Danish Para Track and Field Team in Tokyo. When Kimberly was eight-years old she was in a bus crash that changed her life and how she approaches everything she does. This episode explores the world of running prosthetics, Kimberly's love of adventure, and her experiences of loss and grief. NOTE: This episode contains themes that some people may find upsetting, including descriptions of depression and suicide. Thank you to Producer Michelle Poulin for her terrific efforts spearing this episode! Experts interviewed include Keith Antoine, Ken Endo, and Dr. Katherine Shear. Audio clip from Women's 100m T64 Final | Dubai 2019 YouTube.

Zahra Nemati is arguably Iran's most popular female athlete. While she grew up competing in taekwondo, after a car accident left her legs paralyzed, she decided to pick up a bow and arrow at the age of 21. Zahra’s physical disability allows her to qualify for the Paralympics, but she also was also the first to beat out many able-bodied athletes to additionally qualify for the Iranian Olympic team. In this episode, Zahra shares what it’s like to compete in both the Olympics and Paralympics, and discusses what gives her hope. Experts interviewed include Mr. Behzad Pakzad, Zahra’s coach, Ms. Maryam Shokouhil, Director International Affairs, Iranian Paralympic Committee, Nahid Siamdoust, Assistant Professor in Women's studies and Anthropology of Religion at the Harvard Divinity School, and Mark Gearan, Director, Harvard Kennedy School Institute of Politics.

Paralympic 100M bronze medalist and World Championship silver medalist, Kym Crosby has 'limited sight, limitless dreams.' Kym is legally blind, but she hasn't let that stand in the way of anything she sets her mind to, including becoming one of the world's fastest women. As half-Jamaican, she identifies as bi-racial, but the world has rarely viewed her that way because she has albinism. In this episode we explore Kym's experience as a black woman with limited sight and albinism, and her marriage to fellow US Track & Field Paralympian, Erik Hightower. Serious power couple alert! Experts interviewed include her Erik Hightower (Husband, Two time Paralympian), and Ero Ikponwosa (Independent Expert on the human rights of people with albinism, United Nations). Audio clips from 'Challenged Athletes Live Q&A with Bob Babbitt: Episode Sixty Seven | Kym Crosby Hightower and Erik Hightower', The Orion's "Mini Profile | Blind Sprinter Kym Crosby", 7 New's coverage of SpotMyUV

While most know Danish Olympic Rower, Ida Jacobsen for her prowess on the water, she's also a political science junkie and cheese expert (much to the chagrin of her boyfriend, Samir). Ida decided she was going to compete in the Olympics shortly after her first time rowing 12 years ago. Therefore, the current postponement of the Tokyo Games really made Ida question her identity and sources of motivation. This episode explores how Ida has dealt with the postponement of the Olympic Games, and offers tips for all listeners on how we can more effectively adapt in this uncertain time. Experts interviewed include Nancy Lieberman (1980 USA Basketball Olympic Team Member that did not compete because of USA boycott; Silver Medalist, 1976 Games), Samir (Ida's boyfriend), Mette (Ida's mother), Anne Larsen (Danish National Teammate), Emmy-Lou Nicolaï (Cheese expert), and Dr. Kimberlyn Leary (Lecturer in Public Policy, Harvard Kennedy School; Associate Professor of Psychology, Harvard Medical School; Associate Professor in the Department of Health Policy and Management, Harvard School of Public Health). Audio clip from 'Olympics - 1980 Moscow - US Athletes In Crisis - Carter Boycotts imasportsphile.com'

Katarina grew up on the island of Newfoundland, so at an early age, her parents, Leonard and Lisa thought that it was important she learn to swim. 20 years later, Roxon brought home her first medal, a gold in the 100-m breaststroke in Canadian record time during the 2016 Paralympics. This episode dives into Katarina's family dynamic including her relationship with her father (who is also her coach), her decision to compete for Team Canada instead of Team India, and her commitment to living a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Experts interviewed include Katarina's father and coach, Leonard Roxon, mother, Lisa Roxon, sister, Miranda Roxon, Canadian Paralympic Committee CEO, Karen O'Neill, and yoga instructor and activist, Seane Corn. Audio clips from: 'How to Get the PERFECT BODY' YouTube video, Allure's 'Girls Ages 6-18 Talk About Body Image YouTube video, How Seane Corne Leads with Love YouTube video, and Yoga Journal's 'Behind the Scenes with Seane Corn'.

2019 Women's Afrobasket MVP, Ezinne Kalu plays for the reigning African champions, Nigeria's D'Tigress. While most know Ezinne for her talent on the court, she's also jumped headfirst into the world of entrepreneurship; she's launched her own cosmetics company, Kalu Kosmetics, and an organization empowering young girls who want to play basketball, the Kalu Team Heat. This episode explores Ezinne's entrepreneurial drive and commitment to uplift the Black community, as well as the connection between bias and entrepreneurship. Experts interviewed include Ezinne's father, Mr. Kalu, teammate and coach, Ndidi Madu, Founder and CEO, wovoyage, Rashmi Chadha, and Harvard Business School Assistant Professor, Dr. Laura Huang. Audio clip from Fiba's 'Kalu saves Nigeria in the last seconds! - 2016 FIBA Women's Olympic Qualifying Tournament'

Nicky is a middle blocker on the USA's Sitting Volleyball team, and a Rio Paralympic gold medalist. She is an Afro Latina and an outspoken advocate for the Black Lives Matter movement, spearheading conversations about race on her team and via social media. This episode explores Nicky's experience playing volleyball without a hand, but focuses on her conscious decision to advocate for racial justice, providing listeners with suggestions for how they can help. Experts interviewed include former teammate Kari (Miller) Ortiz, Amherst College Professor, Dr. Solsiree del Moral, and Black Voters Matter, Co-Founder, LaTosha Brown. Audio clips from: -https://time.com/5847967/george-floyd-protests-trump/ -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ue6CovRPa48 -https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lxhPcUzgeDw

Lea Davison is a 2X Olympic Mountain Biker and 2016 World Championship silver medalist looking to qualify for her 3rd Olympics. Lea is unabashedly herself in all ways, including being open about her sexuality: Lea is gay. This episode takes a dive into some of Lea's professional cycling highlights, her co-founding of Little Bellas with sister, Sabra (a mountain biking/mentorship nonprofit for girls), and her decision to be open about her sexuality, which is something her sponsor Garneau, actively supports. Experts interviewed include Sabra Davison, Andy Bishop, Frazier Blair, Marie-Andree Vezina and Dr. Susan Cahn. Audio clip of Megan Rapino from ABC 30's LGBTQ athletes speak out proudly about what it means to be out in the world of pro sport. Audio clip of Gareth Thomas via ODN News' article, Rugby star Gareth Thomas reveals he's gay. Audio clip of Layshia Clarendon from her 6/22/17 Instagram post.

Manasi Joshi is India's current Para-badminton World Champion and BBC India's Sportswoman of the year. One day on her way to work, a truck ran into Manasi; hours dragged on before she received treatment, and her leg eventually needed to be amputated. In this episode, Manasi talks about losing her leg, how badminton was a crucial part of her rehabilitation process and her passion for disability rights. Her sister, Nupur shares her take on her sister. Experts interviewed include Sharon Springer, Ariella Barker, and Candace Cable.

Sanda is a Syrian refugee, living in the Netherlands with her husband (who is also her coach) and their three children. She’s a current International Olympic Committee (IOC) Refugee Athlete Scholarship-Holder, the elite group amongst which the 2021 Refugee Team will be selected. This episode spotlights what it means to be refugee, how Sanda copes with her situation, and what going to the Games (hopefully!) will mean to her. Experts interviewed include Renée Wolforth, Jackdar Mohammad, and Anne-Sophie Thilo.

Flame Bearers actively celebrates the current generation of women Olympians and Paralympians seeking to go to Tokyo. We have real conversations about what it means to be amongst the best female athletes in the world, and discuss the untold stories not caught on camera including the difficult daily tradeoffs and tensions many feel about their aging bodies, careers, and interests in having children to name a few but also the unheard positive stories about deeper connections and solidarity. Individuals whose voices are included in order of appearance: Jessica Long, Lea Davison, Eliza Stone, Leonard Roxon, Sanda Aldass, Becky Sauerbrunn, Naya Tapper, Ida Jacobsen, Deja Young, Nicky Nieves, and Katarina Roxon.

Becky is on the US Women's National Soccer Team and has been the rock of the back line for the last 8 years. She's an Olympic gold medalist and has played in both the 2012 and 2016 Olympics, won the 2015 and 2019 World Cup championships, and recently became the US Women's National Team Players Association President. Alongside teammates Megan Rapinoe, Carli Lloyd, Alex Morgan and former teammate, Hope Solo, she brought forth a pay discrimination lawsuit against US Soccer. In this episode, Becky and her boyfriend, Zola discuss her experience as an elite female athlete and their take on Judge Klausner's recent ruling on the pay equity and conditions lawsuit. Experts interviewed include Dr. David Berri, Dr. Jeni Klugman, and Dr. Laurie Essig. Audio clip from Just Not Sports, Ep. 77: USWNT's Becky Sauerbrunn Loves Sci-Fi & Fantasy (3:57-4:11)