At the 2000 Summer Olympics, the greatest gymnasts in the world gathered in Sydney, Australia in pursuit of their ultimate prize: gold in the women's gymnastics All-Around final. But in the midst of the competition, something inexplicable and unprecedented happened that derailed the event –– a mistake that changed the gymnasts' lives forever. Through original interviews with Olympic gymnasts, coaches and officials, Blind Landing reveals the untold true story of one of the biggest mistakes in Olympic history.
The Blind Landing podcast is a captivating and thought-provoking series that delves into the untold stories of the world of gymnastics and figure skating. This podcast goes beyond the surface-level narratives often associated with these sports and explores themes of gender conformism, racism, homophobia, ageism, ableism, and fat-shaming. The host, Ari Saperstein, does an impeccable job of framing these stories with depth and breadth, making it a necessary listen for not only hardcore fans and recovering figure skaters but also for those who are new to these sports.
One of the best aspects of The Blind Landing podcast is its ability to contextualize the issues discussed in relation to wider culture. By examining the microcosm of the skating world with its rigid roles and expectations, listeners can easily see how these limitations affect us all in various ways. The podcast highlights the struggles faced by the LBGTQ+ community but also emphasizes that these issues extend far beyond just one group. It serves as a reminder that we should all strive to be our authentic selves and challenge societal norms so that we can create a better world that is healthier and more interesting.
Another commendable aspect of this podcast is its insider perspective on events such as the Olympics. As someone who avidly follows the Games, I was thrilled to gain insights into what went on behind the scenes during iconic moments in gymnastics and figure skating history. The second season of The Blind Landing was especially intriguing as it shed light on the 2000 Olympic vault scandal and explored the lack of safety measures within these sports. It's eye-opening to realize that those at the top don't always prioritize athlete well-being, which makes this podcast even more important in bringing attention to these systemic issues.
However, while The Blind Landing excels in many areas, there are a few minor drawbacks worth mentioning. Occasionally, some episodes could benefit from providing more context or background information for listeners who may not be familiar with gymnastics or figure skating. This would help ensure that the stories and themes explored are accessible to a wider audience. Additionally, some listeners may have wished for more episodes dedicated to recent events and developments in these sports, such as the 2020/2021 Tokyo Olympic team.
In conclusion, The Blind Landing podcast is an exceptional series that offers high-quality storytelling and insightful commentary on the world of gymnastics and figure skating. It goes beyond sports coverage by addressing important social issues and providing a platform for unheard voices. Ari Saperstein's expertise as both an investigative journalist and podcaster shines through in every episode, making this podcast a must-listen for anyone interested in sports, culture, and the pursuit of authenticity.
As the first generation of NIL gymnasts close the chapter on their NCAA careers this week, ESPN's Alyssa Roenigk sits downs with Blind Landing host Ari Sapersein to look back at the stories that have defined this new era. They look back on Livvy Dunne's popularity, Leanne Wong's bow empire, Cecile Landi's tenure at University of Georgia and more. Check out Alyssa's reporting at ESPN.com and on social at @alyroe. Blind Landing is an award-winning independent podcast. You can support the work we do by leaving a rating and review, sharing this episode with your friends and by leaving us a virtual tip at linktree.com/blindlanding Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Will the FIG learn from the lessons of the Paris Olympics? Who will hold them accountable? That's what we'll explore in the second episode of a two-part deep dive from Blind Landing. You'll hear from a variety of perspectives and expertise as we talk through these issues with Olympic gymnast Lieke Wevers, US Congressman Steve Cohen, professor Andrea Geurin & gymnastics judge Kathi-Sue Rupp. Blind Landing is an award-winning independent podcast hosted by journalist Ari Saperstein. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Has the FIG (International Gymnastics Federation) operated ethically in the wake of the Olympic floor final controversy? Or are they violating their own policies and standards? That's what we'll explore in the first episode of a two-part deep dive from Blind Landing. You'll hear from a variety of perspectives and expertise as we talk through these issues with Olympic gymnast Lieke Wevers, US Congressman Steve Cohen, professor Andrea Geurin & gymnastics judge Kathi-Sue Rupp. Blind Landing is an award-winning independent podcast hosted by journalist Ari Saperstein. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
We've got a special episode coming out this week and we want your help! Send your thoughts, questions and insight to blindlandingpodcast at gmail dot come. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On today's episode of Blind Landing… 0:00 - 13:00: The women's floor final controversy explained 13:00 - 40:00: Olympic legend Betty Okino joins us to talk about the past and present of friendships amongst gymnasts 40:00- End: Paris Olympian Shallon Olsen calls in to talk about camaraderie at the games As we wrap up our coverage of the Paris Olympics on this packed episode, we start by explaining the breaking story around the women's gymnastics floor final and everything that led to the IOC reallocating the bronze medal initially given to Jordan Chiles. Then, we look back at the images that have come to define women's gymnastics at these games. Betty Okino, an Olympian & USA Gymnastics National team staff member, joins us to compare the past and present of camaraderie and representation in the sport. Betty talks about the rise of Black gymnasts in the sport, Rebeca Andrade's reputation, how Suni Lee and Jade Carey help set the tone for friendships at national team camps, and a conversation she had with Oprah about gymnastics. And finally, Olympic gymnast Shallon Olsen recounts a story of support between herself and French gymnast Melanie De Jesus Dos Santos. Blind Landing is an award-winning independent podcast hosted by journalist Ari Saperstein. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Today on Blind Landing, we're breaking down the women's gymnastics all-around final with guest co-host Monica Padman, host of the podcast Armchair Expert. On this episode, we talk about the battle of the champions as returning Olympic champions Simone Biles, Suni Lee & Rebeca Andrade face off in one of the most exciting match-ups in Olympic history. Blind Landing is an award-winning, independently produced podcast hosted by journalist Ari Saperstein. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Throughout this week, we'll be bringing you special episodes debriefing the gymnastics competitions at the 2024 Olympics. Today, we're breaking down the women's team final and with guest co-host Danusia Francis-Reed, a commentator and former Olympic gymnast who competed for Great Britain, Jamaica and UCLA. On this episode, we chat about the “redemption tour” by Simone Biles and the US women, the historic achievements by Brazil & Italy and the importance of leadership and group morale in team competitions. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
To kick-off the start of Olympic gymnastics at the 2024 Paris games, we've put together a little showcase of our previous profiles about a couple of the top contenders. Rebeca Andrade from Brazil & Illia Kovtun from Ukraine both have had remarkable journeys to Paris that we break down on today's retrospective. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
We've got a Blind Landing exclusive today: The first group interview with the female gymnasts representing the Philippines in Paris. Aleah Finnegan, Emma Malabuyo and Levi Jung-Ruivivar are the first female gymnasts in 60 years to represent the Philippines at the Olympics. Host Ari Saperstein sat down with the trio to chat about their journeys to Paris, their connections to their heritage and their role in supporting the growth of gymnastics in the Philippines. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Host Ari Saperstein takes us inside the arena at the 2024 US Olympic Trials for women's gymnastics. Today's episode is a collection of moments from the competition in Minneapolis, from the Olympic Box Suite to Press Conferences to drinks with Nadia Comaneci. Featuring: Simone Biles, Suni Lee, Jordan Chiles, Joscelyn Roberson, Matt Cowan, Erica Schnebel, Alicia Sacramone Quinn, Chellsie Memmel, Sarah Korngold and, of course, Cecilia. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
At most US Olympic Trials, you earn your spot by being the top finisher. In sports like track & field and swimming, it's the top finishers who get to compete at the Paris Games this summer. Gymnastics doesn't work that way –– but some people think it should. Unpacking this messy, subjective process are two guests: Dvora Meyers, author of The End Of The Perfect 10, and Emily Giambalvo, reporter at The Washington Post. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The story for nearly half a century has been that youth is the key to women's gymnastics –– but in recent years, there's been a surge of female gymnasts in their twenties dominating the sport. Emily Giambalvo from The Washington Post joins host Ari Saperstein to break down how everything we were told about success in gymnastics got turned upside down. You can follow Emily at @EmilyGiam on Twitter and read all her work at www.washingtonpost.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
On May 18th 2024, the gymnastics world saw something that had never happened before: the return of three Olympic all-around champions. Host Ari Saperstein unpacks this historic story with producer Maddie Bender. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
The making of Rebeca Andrade, one of the greatest gymnasts of all time and a comeback unlike any other. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For many Asian Americans, seeing Kristi Yamaguchi win the gold in women's figure skating at the 1992 Olympics was everything. She was more than a famous athlete — she was one of the few Asian Americans on TV, period. Yet for Kristi, the polished, glamorous image that we all saw was very different from her experience, on the inside. From her choice to skate solo to seeking endorsements in an anti-Asian climate, reporter Stefanie Ritoper looks at the moments that almost stopped her from becoming the Kristi Yamaguchi that we all know. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On this special episode of Blind Landing, we're stepping away from figure skating and going back to the world of gymnastics to bring you Ukrainian gymnast Illia Kovtun. Illia tells us about what it's been like to compete during the invasion of Ukraine and the story of how politics found it's way onto the competition floor. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Mabel Fairbanks changed figure skating forever. As a Black figure skater in the 1940s, Mabel made a name for herself skating in ice shows all over the world — but was barred from entering competitions because of the color of her skin. Mabel made it her life's mission to get Black skaters into the sport and to reach the highest peaks. Using excerpts of interviews with Mabel never before heard by the public, we're bringing you not just the story of Mabel Fairbanks, but Mabel herself — her voice, in her own words. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
“Out On The Ice” concludes with the story of Adam Rippon, the first out skater to represent the US at the Olympics, and a new generation of queer skaters determined to change the culture of their sport. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
For decades, skaters have been pushed to play into narrow gender stereotypes on and off the ice, leaving LGBTQ+ athletes feeling like being themselves wasn't an option –– but not everyone was going to stay silent. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
From the outside, figure skating might look like a queer haven, a space where LGBTQ+ athletes can be out and open… but inside of the sport? That couldn't be farther from the reality. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The new season of Blind Landing is all about… figure skating! We're taking you behind the scenes with the biggest names in the sport, from Adam Rippon to Kristi Yamaguchi, and telling the stories of skaters who dared to challenge the norms and put everything on the line for something greater than gold. New episodes coming February 7th. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
When it comes to addressing the safety concerns gymnasts have about competitions, there are structures in place to help gymnasts be heard... but are these structures working? Can they work? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
We spoke with Olympic gymnasts from around the world about the current state of safety at competitions. Twenty years after the Sydney vault controversy, things have changed. And not necessarily for the better. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
On the final episode of Blind Landing, British gymnast Lisa Mason reflects on the culture she trained in. Elise and Allana discuss the impact that the Sydney Olympics had on their lives. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Romanian gymnast Maria Olaru discusses how the vault problem might have been stopped before it even started. Olympic officials explain what was happening behind the scenes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The officials tried to solve the vault problem. Their decision had major consequences for everyone in the arena – but no one more so than the frontrunner, Russia's Svetlana Khorkina. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
The story of the 2000 women's gymnastics all-around final picks up with Australian gymnast Allana Slater. In the midst of the competition, Allana realized that it was no coincidence gymnasts were falling on vault. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Elise Ray, America's top gymnast, qualified for the 2000 Olympics with big dreams –– but during the all-around final, high expectations clashed with reality and came crashing down. Literally. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Blind Landing is the untold story of the greatest mistake in Olympic history. All episodes available on July 19th. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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