Keep the Flame Alive

In honor of Mental Health Awareness Month and Military Appreciation Month, we're rekindling our interview with Olympian Samantha Schultz, former modern pentathlete and member of the US Army World Class Athlete Program. Samantha realized her goal of becoming an Olympian--but then after Tokyo 2020, she discovered underlying mental health issues, including an eating disorder, that turned her life upside down. In early 2024, Samantha shared her journey with us and how she's working toward better mental health. Follow Samantha on Instagram and YouTube!   If you're struggling with mental health, finding the right support can help you get on a better path. In the US, anyone can call or text 988, the suicide and mental health crisis hotline. Resources for eating disorders include: National Eating Disorder Association: https://www.nationaleatingdisorders.org/ National Alliance for Eating Disorders: https://www.allianceforeatingdisorders.com/ The Bulimia Project  https://bulimia.com/ National Association of Anorexia Nervosa and Related Disorders: https://anad.org/ and helpline: 1-888-375-7767   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week, and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Buy merch here: https://flamealivepod.dashery.com Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348        

We're headed back to Sydney 2000 for another episode in our history series on these Games. It was the first time women were allowed to compete in Olympic weightlifting, and not surprisingly, there was controversy. It was also the first time for women's Paralympic powerlifting, which spawned some legends in Paralympic history. Jill's got the scoop on these events. Then Alison explores the Olympic football competitions, where underdogs prevailed on both the women's and the men's side. Which Davids took down which Goliaths? Listen on to find out! For a transcript of this episode and our list of sources, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!    *** Keep the Flame Alive: Games History Moment with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown is released monthly on the second week of the month. In 2025, these episodes explore what's widely considered to be one of the greatest Summer Olympics in history. Look for our regular episodes every week, with daily editions during the Olympics and Paralympics. Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Merch: https://flamealivepod.com/store/ Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod X: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348          

If you've ever been interested in studying the Olympics and the Olympic Movement, this is the episode for you! We're talking with Dr. Yoav Dubinsky, professor of sports business at the University of Oregon. Dr. Dubinsky is also the operational director of the university's new Olympic Studies Hub. We talk with Yoav about the Olympic Studies Hub, why it's important to study the Olympics, and--because Yoav is from Israel--the Israeli perspective on the Games. The University of Oregon Olympic Studies Hub is having an Olympic Studies Week on May 12-18, 2025. It includes events for students, faculty and the general public. Find out more information at the event website: https://business.uoregon.edu/news/uo-olympic-studies-week-2025 Follow Dr. Dubinsky on LinkedIn! We also have news from Milano-Cortina 2026, including more curling quotas, hospitality house news, and ticket purchasing woes.  Plus, one country is already squaring away their hospitality house plans for LA 2028. We also have lots of news from Team Keep the Flame Alive--find out who's competing, who's opening up a business line, and who's having babies!   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!    *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Buy merch here: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/keep-the-flame-alive Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348      

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and this month, we're exploring aspects of mental health as it pertains to sports. We're kicking it off with our interview with Olympic figure skater Gracie Gold. Gracie won a bronze medal in the team event at the Sochi 2014 Olympics. Gracie is an advocate for good mental health, having spent time in a treatment facility to help her cope with an eating disorder and depression. In 2024 she released a very candid memoir titled Outofshapeworthlessloser: A Memoir of Figure Skating, F*cking Up, and Figuring It Out (affiliate link) that delves into Gracie's highs and lows as an elite figure skater. Trigger warning: We talk with Gracie about eating disorders, body dysmorphia, and suicidal ideation in this interview. Learn more about Gracie at her website and follow her on Insta and X. Also on this episode: It's a quiet news week in the Olympic and Paralympic world, but we have news from Milan-Cortina 2026 and LA 2028, plus updates from Team Keep the Flame Alive members Olivia Chambers, Elizabeth Marks, Daniel Romanchuk, Jimmer Fredette, and Kenny Bednarek. If you heard what's going on with our TeePublic store and want to get a Keep the Flame Alive shirt or sticker while the store is still available, go here.   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!     *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Buy merch here: https://www.teepublic.com/stores/keep-the-flame-alive Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348        

USA Cycling's Senior Data Analyst Ryan Cooper joins us to talk about Project 4:05, the quest to win the women's track cycling team pursuit gold medal at Paris 2024.  The US wasn't considered much of a contender for the podium--defending gold medalists Germany and reigning world champions Great Britain were considered to be the main teams vying for the top prize. However, Ryan developed a process to uncover more with data analytics using machine learning and real-time analytics to optimize rider selection, race strategy and aerodynamic efficiency.  If all went according to plan, Team USA's riders Jennifer Valente, Lily Williams, Chloe Dygert and Kristen Faulkner could top the podium with a time of 4:05.  Hear Ryan's process, the race results and the subsquent major award beyond the gold medal that USA Cycling received for this endeavor. Follow USA Cycling on Facebook, Instagram, X, and TikTok!  In Milan-Cortina 2026 news, we have updates on ticket sales, volunteers, sneakers and the construction of Arena Santa Giulia, the new ice hockey stadium. International Paralympic Committee President Andrew Parsons also has high hopes for improved accessibility.  In news from TKFLASTAN, we hear from Alison Levine, Kim Rhode and Dick Pound. For more information and a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348        

3x Paralympian and U.S. Army World Class Athlete Program member SFC Elizabeth Marks joins us to tell us about her experience in the pool at Paris 2024. Ellie competed in seven events, winning five silver medals. Ellie tells us what she thought about her third Games, including her thoughts on the infamous Paris 2024 chocolate muffins. We also discuss how swimming is an intellectual sport, how she's adapted to the sport throughout her career, and how she mentors other athletes. Learn more about the U.S. Army's WCAP here and follow Ellie on Insta! Special thanks to the U.S. Army for making this interview possible. We also have a lot of news from upcoming Games! Milan-Cortina 2026 has unveiled its torches. LA 2028 announced a new Olympic venue plan, new events, and an athlete quota that will see more women than men at these Olympics. In news from TKFLASTAN, we hear from: Sprinter Kenny Bednarek Former fencer Olya Abasolo Ovtchinnikova Fencer Nick Itkin   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thank you to our ongoing contributors and patrons! This show thrives because of our listeners. If you appreciate the work that goes into this show and want to give back, learn how to do so here. All patrons (including free levels) will soon be able to access a special episode, so sign up today!   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!     *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348    

We sail back in time to Sydney 2000! Alison explores the origins of the official Olympic mascots, Syd, Millie, and Olly, and the Paralympic mascot Lizzie. But Sydney doesn't stop with the mascot fun--the hosts of the Sydney 2000 recap show The Dream brought us Fatso, who stole the athletes' and fans' hearts....and caused some controversy along the way.  See one of Fatso's best moments here: https://youtu.be/dJZS6DdS9xI?si=BjalIj50J6EA4-WB   Then Jill heads across Sydney Harbor to the sailing competition to revisit the men's sailing competition, specifically the Two Person Keelboat (Star) and One Person Dinghy (Laser). Death looms in the background of both of these competitions, the fat lady eventually sings, and karma says g'day. See some of the wild action between Ben Ainslie and Robert Scheidt here: https://youtu.be/twM3ZBS1irA?si=l8za0HTllVz-fFuH   For a transcript of this episode and a full sourcelist, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thank you to our ongoing contributors and patrons! This show thrives because of our listeners. Want to give back? Learn more here.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!    *** Keep the Flame Alive: Games History Moment with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown is released monthly. In 2025, these episodes explore the Sydney 2000 Olympics and Paralympics Look for our regular episodes every week, with daily editions during the Olympics and Paralympics. Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod X: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348            

Five-time Olympian Kirsty Coventry has been elected as the new president of the International Olympic Committee. She's the first woman and the first African to lead the organization. What's her story, and how will she shape the Olympics for years to come?  We take a deep dive to find out. Plus, another chapter in the Milan-Cortina 2026 slidingnovela, updates (and concerns) for LA 2028, and Brisbane 2032 missed the Agenda 2020+5 memo. Looking for tickets to the Milan-Cortina 2026 Olympics? Another ticket drop happens on April 8, 2025. Paralympic tickets? Always on sale. For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com. Thank you to our ongoing contributors and patrons! This show thrives because of our listeners. Want to give back? Learn more here.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348        

Alison went to the 2025 World Figure Skating Championships in Boston and has all of the behind-the-scenes details! Find out what you can't see on TV and how different the skater's performances were in person! Also check out our figure skating-themed Patreon episode this month! And get more scoop from Figure Skating Champs in our free Substack.   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!     *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348    

Book Club Claire is back for our first selection of 2025, which is by a TKFLASTANI! We're reading Beyond Expectations: An Extraordinary Equestrian Journey from Deadly Diagnosis to the Paralympic Games by Sydney Collier with Heather Wallace. For Sydney, a routine eye exam turned into a diagnosis of a life-threatening rare disease. She's defied all expectations--particularly in terms of lifespan--to become a Paralympian in para dressage. She overcame some pretty touch obstacles to earn her ticket to Rio 2016, and the book discusses how she's famous in the rare disease world and her journey to Rio.  Follow Claire and Sydney on Insta!  Also on this episode, a Paris 2024 bullying case goes to trial, lots of news from Milan-Cortina 2026, and the International Olympic Committee has elected a new president! We have our initial thoughts on the new boss of the Olympics.   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   We do use affiliate links where possible. If you purchase something through them, we may earn a commission. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348      

While the Sydney 2000 Olympics are generally considered to be one of the best Games of all time, yet they still had their fair share of issues, particularly in the gymnastics venue. In the latest installment of our year-long look back at Sydney 2000, Alison explores the numerous debacles during the gymnastics competitions, including a women's team competition that saw a podium change years later, and an all-around competition that forced a massive change in the vault starting with Athens 2004. For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348      

Sometimes all of the training and preparation in the world doesn't get you to the Paralympic podium. Boccia player Alison Levine experienced that firsthand during the Paris 2024 Paralympics, when tournament bracket design forced her to face the other top player early on in the elimination rounds. Play didn't go her way, and she didn't get the results she wanted. It didn't get better in the mixed doubles tournament, when she and teammate Iulian Ciobanu lost to Thailand in the bronze medal match. Even with the disappointment, Alison's Paris experience was, on the whole, a good one. Along with talking about the tournament and how she regrouped after the Paralympics, Alison tells us about life in the Athletes' Village, how accessible design made life a lot easier for a couple of weeks, and the infamous Paris 2024 chocolate muffin. Learn more about Alison at her website, and follow her on Insta and X. This week, we're also celebrating one year to go until the Milan-Cortina 2026 Paralympics! Tickets for the Paralympics go on sale March 6. We also have another installment of our Milan-Cortina 2026 slidingnovela--this time, with good news!  Plus, news from the International Olympic Committee, the World Games (with a Games-first event for Chengdu 2025), and an update from Team Keep the Flame Alive. And finally, this month, we'll have a special feature on our Patreon for all members, free and paying. Check it out and join us there! For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348      

We catch up with sprinter Kenny Bednarek and learn about his Paris 2024 experience running the 100m, 200m and 4x100m relay. He did bring home some hardware, but also had many learning experiences (and we're not just talking about dealing with the lack of A/C in Paris). We also look ahead to Kenny's 2025 season and how he's preparing for World Athletics' world championships.   Be sure to watch Kenny's documentary series Road to Gold on YouTube. Also check out his website and follow him on Insta and X.   Also on this episode: IT's the vibe, says Milan-Cortina 2026 The "Sabataggio" installment of the Slidingnovela Potential sports for French Alps 2030 An exciting hire for Brisbane 2032 (that devastates Alison) Leadership announcements for SLC 2034 New and continuing sponsors at the IOC - TBach is excited about them! News from TKFLASTAN   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thank you to our ongoing contributors and patrons! This show thrives because of our listeners. Want to give back? Learn more here.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348            

We catch up with our para powerlifter Bobby Body and talk with him about his experience at Paris 2024, including: What it was like to compete on the final day of the Games Dealing with no-lifts that resulted in a 4th place finish What it's like to get Team USA kit when you've got a powerlifter's body--did Bobby hulk out of his ceremonies uniforms? We also have news from past and upcoming Games, including a Paris 2024 concert and Milan-Cortina 2026 ticket and torch relay news. The Slidingnovela has another installment, and we have a major announcement about the show's future. Plus, the International Olympic Committee has picked a year for the first eSports Games (not this year), and we have a lot of news from Team Keep the Flame Alive (TKFLASTAN). For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!     *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348    

Runners Cathy Freeman and Marion Jones, two of the stars from the Sydney 2000 Olympics, could not have had more different outcomes to their experiences at these Games. In this look back at the Sydney 2000 Olympics, Alison has the amazing story of Cathy Freeman, who brought Olympic glory to Australia and the Aboriginal people.  Meanwhile, Jill unravels the complicated story of Marion Jones, who was the first women to ever win five medals in a single Games in athletics.  Until she gave them back--before the International Olympic Committee decided to strip them from her for doping. And went to prison for lying under oath. For a full source list and transcript, please visit our website. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: Games History Moment with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown is released monthly. In 2025, these episodes explore the Sydney 2000 Olympics and Paralympics. Look for our regular episodes every week, with daily editions during the Olympics and Paralympics. Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod X: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348              

It's one year to go until the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics! Tickets went on sale today, which means it's time to figure out travel plans--and because Milan-Cortina is really spread out across northern Italy, travel between venue clusters is going to be much more complicated.   Not to worry though. Our Olympics travel expert Ken Hanscom is back to talk about traveling to Milan-Cortina for the Games. He shares: What to think about when buying tickets Why Milan will be a great host city for the Games Where to stay if you can't find a hotel in Cortina What the roads are like between the different venue clusters   Follow Ken on X, and learn more about TicketManager on Insta, X and its website.   Besides travel, there's a lot of news from Milan-Cortina, which we dive into. The slidingnovela continues on, with both AP and Reuters articles citing sources that say progress on the new track is going well, but we're not sure what that actually means.   If you're going to Milan-Cortina for the Olympics, please let us know!   This episode also features news from Paris 2024, LA 2028, French Alps 2030, and a visit to TKFLASTAN to check in on our past guests. Many of them of competing right now in hopes of qualifying for Milan-Cortina!   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!     *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348    

Brazilian cross-country skier Bruna Moura joins us to talk about her continuing gritty journey to become an Olympian. A former mountain biker, Bruna took up roller skiing to help her recover from surgery. She found a love for the sport and transferred to snow to achieve her goal of representing her country at an Olympics. She was supposed to realize her dream in 2022 when she qualified for the Beijing Winter Olympics at the last minute. However, as she was riding to the airport to fly to China for the Games, she was in a horrific car crash, in which she sustained several serious injuries. That setback hasn't deterred Bruna from achieving her goal, and she is back on the cross-country skiing circuit trying to earn enough points to qualify for Milan-Cortina 2026.  We talk with Bruna about how she found her sport and how athletes from underrepresented nations cobble together training, equipment and travel on the cross-country ski circuit. We also discuss her almost-journey to Beijing and how her accident fueled her drive to keep going toward her goal.  Follow Bruna Moura on Facebook and Instagram! Our friend Nick Zaccardi wrote a great article about her journey – check it out here!   Also on today's episode: The International Olympic Committee has pressed pause on its plans to hold an Olympic Esports Games in 2025. Sports Business broke the story (paywalled), and we talk about what that could mean for the future of the event. Perhaps the new IOC President will have thoughts on the direction that event should take. This week, the seven candidates meet in Lausanne to present their candidacy to IOC membership. Plus, we have news from TKFLASTAN, including results for a number of our winter athletes and some great honors for our para archer Matt Stutzman.   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!        

The one new sport on the program for the Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Olympics is ski mountaineering (aka skimo). What is this sport all about, and why should you watch it?    Sarah Cookler, Head of Sport for USA Skimo (USA Ski Mountaineering Association), joins us to talk about the sport, how it works, and how much fun its debut at Milan-Cortina will be.   Follow USA Skimo on Insta and X! They're @usaskimo.   Also on today's show: Massive problems with the bronze medals from Paris 2024 - this New York Times story is worth a read too Ticket news from Milan-Cortina 2026 We've officially dubbed the sliding track situation our "Slidingnovela" The neutral athlete situation for the 2026 Olympics Doping news   TKFLASTAN has had a big week--we've got results, honors, a tough situation, and some listener views on Sydney 2000 and The Fire Inside.   Links mentioned on the show: New York Times - Paris 2024 medals: https://www.nytimes.com/2025/01/20/business/medals-paris-olympics-lvmh.html?unlocked_article_code=1.q04.1cnv.YIzYe5LEOIeL&smid=url-share Milan-Cortina ticket price chart: https://milanocortina2026.olympics.com/s3fs-public/documents/2024-10/20241009_Test_Table_A4_B_NO_VISA.pdf?VersionId=lyYTMUMYb_8kSLnKWQaNuSfmhp6_vUrk    For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod   Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe   VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348              

Welcome to our look back at the Sydney 2000 Olympics and Paralympics! We asked which historical Games should get a deep dive, and your response was to take another look at arguably one of the best Olympics of all time.   On this episode, Jill delves into how Sydney won the right to host the Games against a crowded field that included Beijing, Berlin, Manchester (UK) and Istanbul. Would Sydney win on merit, or was there something fishy going on with their bid?   Then Alison looks at the Opening Ceremonies for the Olympics and Paralympics, with its grand walk through Australian history, big star performances and the epic cauldron lightings.   Especially fun to watch:  Sydney 2000 bid song: https://youtu.be/J8FIw5Ra-aU?si=9juBaYlBr15NP8H6 Opening Ceremonies song "Under the Southern Skies": https://youtu.be/zC3qm3If8Z8?si=JHOT8DYaAELGSvyI Olympics Opening Ceremonies: https://youtu.be/qsLLzL27hYA?si=nUO_UDpajeD8SPLx Paralympics Opening Ceremonies: https://youtu.be/rkZ9LtoMaNg?si=4synpfUbPqqGf2bs   For a full list of sources and a transcript, please visit our website: http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348        

Movie Club returns to look at the 2024 biopic "The Fire Inside," which tells the story of Olympic boxer Claressa Shields and her journey to winning her first Olympic gold medal at London 2012. The movie also goes beyond her first victory to show what happens when the Games are over--and unfortunately, Claressa is one of the many Olympic athletes who do not see a financial windfall after the Games.   Also on the show: News from Paris 2024 (how about those finances?!) News from Milan-Cortina 2026 (ticket lottery is coming up, and Plan B is coming together) News from TKFLASTAN   VOTE FOR US! We're nominated for a Sports Podcast Award, but we need your vote to get to the top of the podium. Vote here by Jan. 13! https://tinyurl.com/flamealiveaward   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348            

It's the final episode of our series on Chamonix 1924! Alison explores the controversial curling event, which had teams that didn't show up, players on multiple teams, and the designation of not being an official Olympic event--or was it? Listen to find out! For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!     *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348    

We're closing out our year of podcasting with a new feature: Rekindled. This is where we bring back some favorite interviews we've had over the years. For newer listeners, it's a great way to hear how we met some of our TKFLASTANIs. If you have heard it before, it's fun to go back and listen to the interview now that we're post-Paris 2024 and see how our original conversation played out.   Alison chose to rekindle our 2023 interview with para archer Matt Stutzman. Matt has been a trailblazer in the sport as its first armless competitor. At his first Paralympics in 2012, he took home a silver medal. He also competed at the Rio 2016 and Tokyo 2020 Paralympics before taking gold at Paris 2024.   It's been a big week for Matt--he celebrated a birthday, and he announced his retirement from para archery. Both Jill and Alison got to spend time watching Matt compete at Paris and talking with him. That's a great reason to look back and see whether 2023 Matt was ready for gold.   We're nominated for a Sports Podcast Award! Vote for us to be the Best Olympics and Paralympics Podcast and help us get to the top of the podium. http://tinyurl.com/flamealiveaward   Also on this episode, Milan-Cortina 2026 has released the Olympic sports competition schedule, and we have news from TKFLASTAN.   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348      

Para swimmer McKenzie Coan returns to the show to tell us all about her experiences at the Paris 2024 Paralympics. She surprised herself by winning a medal and made the most of her time in Paris, particularly when it came to the famous chocolate muffins! Learn more about McKenzie at her website: http://mckenziecoan.com Follow McKenzie on Insta, TikTok, and X. Milan-Cortina 2026 has unveiled its torch relay maps for the Olympics and Paralympics. We have the details on that.  Also, the International Olympic Committee had an Executive Board meeting, so we have a lot of news on the future of the Youth Olympic Games, as well as the IOC's thoughts on international federations giving out prize money for medals at the Olympics (spoiler alert: They're not thrilled).   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Be sure to check out our holiday gift guide: https://flamealivepod.com/2024-gift-guide/   Our newsletter has moved to Substack. Find it here: https://flamealivepod.substack.com/   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348          

Book Club Claire is back with our final selection of 2024, which is Today We Die a Little! The Inimitable Emil Zátopek, The Greatest Olympic Runner of All Time by Richard Askwith. This is the 2016 biography of the world-famous Czechoslovakian runner who competed in long-distance races at London 1948, Helsinki 1952 and Melbourne 1956, racking up five Olympic medals. What did we think of this legend and his biography? Take a listen to find out! Claire also announces our book club roster for 2025, with some great titles to explore! Find them through our Bookshop.org affiliate site. For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod Become a patron and get bonus content: http://www.patreon.com/flamealivepod Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://flamealivepod.substack.com/subscribe VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348        

What's more fun than bobsled? Bobsled and champagne! Hear all about the wild rides and lack of safety features that was the first Olympic bobsled (or bobsleigh) competition at Chamonix 1924.   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! NOTE: An earlier version of this episode stated that Switzerland has the  the most Olympic bobsled medals. That is incorrect. The episode has been edited to reflect that change. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348        

Paralympic para powerlifter Louise Sugden returns to talk about her experiences at the Paris 2024 Paralympics, where she finished 5th in the 79kg weight class. However, she also opted to change weight classes this time around. We discuss that decision, the process of what it takes to successfully move down, and whether it was the best choice for this competition.   Follow Louise on Instagram, Threads, TikTok and Twitter!   Also on this episode, we discuss the Court of Arbitration for Sport's (CAS) recently announced 10-year-ban on Russian Tatyana Tomashova, who was discovered to have doped during London 2012 in the women's 1500m, which is widely considered to be the dirtiest race in history (even worse than the one we discussed in book club!).   Speaking of doping, the International Testing Agency released its final report on its pre-Paris initiative. This report details how many athletes and potential Olympic qualifiers were tested ahead of the Games. How successful was the ITA's testing initiative?   Plus,we have more news from Paris 2024, Milan-Cortina 2026, and TKFLASTAN.   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348    

We spent the past weekend in Atlanta at the annual Olympin Olympic collectors and pin traders show. We had a fun time catching up with other collectors, pin traders, TKFLASTANIs, and--best of all--meeting some listeners! This was also Alison's first trip to Atlanta, so we had to do a little Olympic sightseeing. Nicholas from Olympic Rings and Other Things was kind enough to show us around! We also have a ton of news from upcoming Games! Milan-Cortina 2026 has released the pictograms and look of the Games, which they call the Vibes. Mascots Milo and Tina are also unveiling their (adorable) sport poses on social media every day this month. Brisbane 2032 is in a bit of a bind, with several venue projects already over budget. The new Liberal National Party is reviewing the situation. Also, the Association of National Olympic Committees cut a deal to help small NOCs outfit their athletes for Games through 2032. In TKFLASTAN news, we have updates from: Track cyclist Mandy Marquardt Former high jumper Erin Shean--learn more about her new coaching program here Author Andrew Maraniss--he'll be leading a panel at Books by the Banks in Cincinnati For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348      

Paris 2024 Olympic silver medalist SSG Sagen Maddalena on this episode to talk with us about the shooting competitions and what the Olympics were like at the Chateauroux Shooting Centre, a few hours away from Paris.   A former NCAA athlete, Sagen is a member of the US Army's Marksmanship Unit, where she's a shooter and instructor for the unit's International Team.    Paris 2024 fueled Sagen's drive for gold at LA 2028. Follow her journey to the next Summer Olympics on Instagram and learn more about the US Army Marksmanship Unit here.   In news from Milan-Cortina 2026, the latest version of the daily Olympics schedule is out. Find it here, and plan your trip and/or viewing now (note: it is subject to change, so maybe don't set your plans in stone).   In news from TKFLASTAN, we hear from: Wheelchair racer Daniel Romanchuk Curler John Shuster Wheelchair curler Steve Emt Fencer Kat Holmes   We'll be at Olympin this weekend! If you're in Atlanta, please stop by and say hello!   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348      

Both Alison and Jill are experiencing some post-Paris 2024 blues, and they share what they're doing to combat it--you'll have to figure out whether Alison is being a 90-year-old or not, and you can do so while listening to our Paris 2024 playlist.   Another way to combat it is to talk with someone who's been there. We're excited to welcome para cyclist Samantha Bosco back onto the show. Samantha competed in both para track and road cycling at Paris–and won gold in the road race time trial, which was the event she most wanted to win. She tells us all about that gold-medal race and more!   You can learn more about Samantha at her website and follow her on YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram. Also check out her lightning round with us!   In Paris 2024 news, the French economy improved, in part due to the Olympics, but the bills are starting to come in the Opening Ceremonies. Plus, seven people have been charged with cyberbullying Ceremonies director Thomas Jolly, a crime that comes with  some pretty heavy penalties if found guilty.   One institution that's also done well in the Paris 2024 department is the Olympic Museum. We've got a rundown of some of the 200-plus artifacts they got from athletes and organizers. How they got them is worth a read.   In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we hear from Team Keep the Flame Alive members: Sled hockey player Monica Quimby Author Warren Perrin Artistic swimmer Jacqueline Simoneau Curler John Shuster   We'll be at Olympin in Atlanta next week, November 8-10! Find out more about location and hours here.   Special thanks to our Patron of the Week Lorry Luscri, who keeps our flame alive with financial support throughout the year. If you'd like to support the show, please check out all of the options here.   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thank you so much for listening–and until next time, keep the flame alive.   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348          

For some sports on the Olympic program, it's easy to understand how they evolved: Swim fast, run fast, jump high, score a goal. But sports like artistic swimming? Where did that come from? On this episode of the podcast, we talk with Vicki Valosik, author of Swimming Pretty: The Untold Story of Women in Water, who delved deep in to the world of synchronized swimming to discover its roots--and along the way, she found much more.   The book is a treasure trove of rabbit holes, from the connection Benjamin Franklin had to the sport, to water-based lifesaving techniques used by the military. Vicki dives into the lives of the sport's pioneer Annette Kellerman and movie star Esther Williams as she traces the history of the sport from its earliest days to the Olympic stage.   You can find out more about Vicki Valosik at her website. Follow her on Insta, Facebook, and X!   Also on today's episode, Zeus the horse from the Paris 2024 Opening Ceremony is now at Versailles for an exhibit. In Melbourne, someone's created another statue--of infamous breaking athlete Raygun.   It's just 500 days to go until the Milan-Cortina 2026 Paralympics! In other Milan-Cortina 2026 news, Poste Italliane has signed on as a sponsor, and the organizing committee announced the producers of the ceremonies and torch relay.   Plus, LA 2028 may be more of a US Games than we thought, and there's some cool legacy news out of Tokyo.   Milan-Cortina will be a regional Games, and LA 2028 may turn out to be that way too. We already know that softball and canoe slalom will be held in Oklahoma City, and now cricket may also take place outside of Southern California.   We also have updates from TKFLASTANIs: Para triathlete Grace Norman Sprinter Kenny Bednarek Sled hockey player Monica Quimby Para swimmer Olivia Chambers Race walker Evan Dunfee We'll be at the Olympin show in Atlanta on November 8-10. Stop by the Marriott Atlanta Buckhead Hotel and Conference Center and see us!   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thank you to our ongoing contributors and patrons! This show thrives because of our listeners. Want to give back? Learn more here.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   Note: Where possible, we use affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of these links, we may earn a commission. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348      

It's been a little over a month since the Paris 2024 Paralympics ended. How does that expereience resonate with our TKFLASTANIs once real life has settled back in? Wheelchair basketball gold medalist Brian Bell and para shot put gold medalist Noelle Malkamaki return to tell us how the Games were for them and what's next (or not) in their lives. Follow Brian and Noelle on Insta! We also have some news from other TKFLASTANIs, including: Sled hockey player Monica Quimby -- learn more about her post-Hurricane Milton GoFundMe here. Wheelchair racer Daniel Romanchuk Listener Lorry Rugby sevens player Perry Baker Swimmer John Naber Rower Kristi Wagner If you haven't checked out Book Club Claire's Paris travelogues, do so now! You might see Alison in them!   Also, we will have a table at the Olympin show in Atlanta! The show takes place November 8-10 and is free to attend. Come by, say hello and check out all the cool Olympic memorabilia!   For a transcript of this episode and expanded show notes, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348    

Alpine skiing is one of the core sports on today's Winter Olympic program, but it wasn't even an event at the very first Winter Olympics at Chamonix in 1924. Instead, the only skiing that mattered was cross-country, ski jumping, and Nordic combined. Was there drama? Of course! And it started in qualifications. We've got the full story here, including Mother Nature's revenge, an incorrect podium, and the man who created technology that would forever change the sport of skiing.  Alison's got the full details in this episode! For a transcript of this episode and full source list, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   Keep the Flame Alive: Games History Moment with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown is released monthly. In 2024, these episodes explore the first Winter Olympic Games at Chamonix, France in 1924. Look for our regular episodes every week, with daily editions during the Olympics and Paralympics. Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod X: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348              

This past weekend, Jill and Producer Ben found herself in Salt Lake City for a few days, which gave her the opportunity to visit some of the Salt Lake City 2002 venues to see how the legacy of those Games continues on. In this episode, hear what it's like at Utah Olympic Park, home of the 2002 ski jumping, Nordic combined and sliding competitions. Currently, the park is a training and competition site, with a learn to ski program for kids. It also has a number of additional activities, including summer and winter bobsled rides, guided tours, zip lines, and trails for mountain biking. The facility also houses the Alf Engen Ski Museum and Eccles Salt Lake 2002 Olympic Winter Games Museum. Hear whether the museums and tour are worth the price of admission, as well as what it's like at the Olympic & Paralympic Plaza. And a side note, an NHL hockey team just came to town, making a winter sports town even more winter sports happy. Also on this episode, Milan-Cortina 2026 has released its ticket prices, and the teams for the men's ice hockey tournament are set--pending a decision on whether the International Ice Hockey Federation will allow Russia to compete. Plus we have news from TKFLASTANIs Grace Norman, Katie Moon, Monica Quimby, and Listener Dan. For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com. To get exclusive content about Jill's trip to Salt Lake City, become a patron today!  Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348      

It's been nearly two months since Paris 2024, but athletes who have spent years training for the Games are still processing what happened there. Today we're talking with Canadian race walker Evan Dunfee about his Paris 2024 experience. Paris was Evan's third Olympics and marked a radical shift in his race schedule--for the first time his marquee event--the 50K walk--was off the program, and he'd be racing the 20K as well as the race walk mixed relay, a new event for the Olympics. We've talked with Evan before about the change in race distances, but how did it turn out? Evan joins us again to break down his 5th place finish in the 20K, which, if you loved our Paris 2024 Toilet Talk segments, this also has something for you. But in all seriousness, Evan's experience is a story of adaptation, perseverance and dealing with a situation you can't control. Be sure to follow Evan on Insta and X! In Paris 2024 news, the Olympic Rings are no longer on the Eiffel Tower, but will they make a comeback? Jessica Long responds to the bullying situation at the Paralympics. The Organizing Committee has started recycling items from the Athletes' Village--you might be able to score some sweet Paris 2024 deck chairs at Restlos online auctions. We also have news from Milan-Cortina, which includes updates on the sliding track and budget; the Winter Games 2030, and the International Olympic Committee. In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we have updates from: Curler John Shuster Track cyclist Mandy Marquardt Weightlifter Hampton Morris Shooter Kim Rhode Author Andrew Maraniss -- get his latest book through our Bookshop.org site and support the show! Our Paris 2024 mascot Waldo   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Note: Where possible, we use affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of these links, we may earn a commission. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348    

People choose to uproot their lives and move to the US for many reasons, and on this episode we hear one immigrant's story. Elvin Kibet came to America for opportunity--and that opportunity inspired her to give back to her new home by serving her country in the US Army and its World Class Athlete Program unit. Elvin shared her story in author Joanna Garten's book "All in Stride: A Journey in Running Courage and the Search for the American Dream" and talked with us about her journey from a rural village in Kenya where she ran about 5K every day to get to school, to life in the United States as a new mother and Olympic hopeful. Follow Elvin on Instagram and Facebook! Also on today's episode we have news about the International Testing Agency's doping program at Paris, and word about the Paris 2024 bronze medals already falling apart. We're now less than 500 days from Milan-Cortina 2026, and that organization is looking for volunteers! See the qualifications and apply here. Our TKFLASTANIs continue to be busy after Paris 2024. We've got updates from: Samantha Bosco Dennis Connors Kenny Bednarek Paul Kamphuis Kikkan Randall Jayson Terdiman   We're nominated for a Women in Podcasting Award! Winners are selected by popular vote, so we need your help! Vote by October 1 to help us win Best Sports Podcast!   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! This post contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission on items purchased through those links. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348          

It's an epic show today because we have epic listeners! We dissect Paris 2024 with you and discuss: what it was like to watch at home more details of trips to the Games  how Paris rates compared to other Games training with a future Paralympian trying visually impaired sports tattoos how well Texan Olympians did Plus, Jill shares a story from her past that's spurred behavior that's almost too embarrassing to discuss on the podcast. And, seven people have declared their candidacies to take over TBach's position as IOC President next spring. We've got the details.   We're nominated for a Women in Podcasting Award in the Best Sports Podcast category, but we need your help to get the title! Vote here until October 1.   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!     *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348    

Although we're home from Paris, we still have a lot of Paris 2024 content to share with you! Here's some mixed zone tape from the last couple days of competition. Jill talked with several athletes after their final competitions, so we have: Para powerlifter Bobby Body, who just missed out on the podium Sitting volleyball players Lora Webster and Kaleo Kanehele after winning the gold medal Wheelchair fencer Ellen Geddes after finishing up the team epee competition   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348    

It's the last day of the Paris 2024 Paralympics, but there's still plenty of competition before the Closing Ceremonies. Jill heads to para powerlifting to see TKFLASTANI Bobby Body lift, while Alison sees a major showdown at Bercy Arena for the end of the women's wheelchair basketball tournament. Unfortunately, scheduling issues prevented our heroes from getting the required stickers to see the Closing Ceremonies (which, given their reaction to the other three ceremonies, may not have been a bad thing), but they celebrated the end of the Games at the Paris Media Centre for one last time. Sports on today's program: Para Athletics Para Canoe Para Powerlifting Wheelchair Basketball   Don't forget - the only way that we're able to bring you this unique look at the Games is thanks to donations from listeners like you. Please support us financially so that we can continue to keep our flame alive. We have many ways to support us -- and if you sign up as a paid Patreon member, you'll get exclusive content! Our researcher for the Paralympics is Elizabeth Emery. For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.  Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348      

 It's the penultimate day of the Paris 2024 Paralympics! Jill heads to the Grand Palais one final time to see TKFLASTANI Ellen Geddes compete in the women's team epee competition and lose a little more of her hearing thanks to the French fans. Plus, there's one more game of monster blocking in sitting volleyball, and it's a doozy. Meanwhile, Alison gets in another para athletics session, sees TKFLASTANI Louise Sugden in Para Powerlifting, and heads to Bercy Arena for the men's wheelchair basketball gold medal match. Sports on today's program: Blind Football Para Athletics Para Canoe Para Cycling Road Para Equestrian Para Judo Para Powerlifting Para Swimming Para Table Tennis Sitting Volleyball Wheelchair Basketball Wheelchair Fencing Wheelchair Tennis   Don't forget - the only way that we're able to bring you this unique look at the Games is thanks to donations from listeners like you. Please support us financially so that we can continue to keep our flame alive. We have many ways to support us -- and if you sign up as a paid Patreon member, you'll get exclusive content! Our researcher for the Paralympics is Elizabeth Emery. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!  

More great competition from the Paris 2024 Paralympics today, as Jill had an adventure (and some sore obliques) learning how to play sitting volleyball. She made the trip out to Versailles to catch some of the para equestrian team competition, then headed to para swimming and miraculously didn't get lost in the venue. Meanwhile, Alison went to the Stade de France for para athletics and then got waylaid at Team USA House getting Team TKFLASTAN interviews (and cookies). Sports on today's program: Para Athletics Para Canoe Para Cycling Road Para Equestrian Para Judo Para Powerlifting Para Swimming Para Table Tennis Sitting Volleyball Wheelchair Basketball Wheelchair Fencing Wheelchair Tennis   Don't forget - the only way that we're able to bring you this unique look at the Games is thanks to donations from listeners like you. Please support us financially so that we can continue to keep our flame alive. We have many ways to support us -- and if you sign up as a paid Patreon member, you'll get exclusive content!   Our researcher for the Paralympics is Elizabeth Emery.   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348    

For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com. Day 7 of the Paris 2024 Paralympics was pretty magical for your two favorite Paralympics podcasters. Alison spent the day at the hallowed ground of Roland Garros for wheelchair tennis and got clay in more places than she thought was possible. Jill saw a TKFLASTANI destroy a world record at the Stade de France, then ended her day with medal rounds of wheelchair fencing foil, with the Paralympic legend Bebe Vio. Sports on today's program: Boccia Goalball Para Archery Para Athletics Para Cycling Road Para Powerlifting Para Swimming Para Table Tennis Shooting Para Sport Sitting Volleyball Wheelchair Basketball Wheelchair Fencing Wheelchair Tennis   Don't forget - the only way that we're able to bring you this unique look at the Games is thanks to donations from listeners like you. Please support us financially so that we can continue to keep our flame alive. We have many ways to support us -- and if you sign up as a paid Patreon member, you'll get exclusive content!   Our researcher for the Paralympics is Elizabeth Emery.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348    

Team Keep the Flame Alive collects more gold today, as Matt Stutzman competes in Para Archery. Alison's got all of the details of his amazingly close matches, plus an encounter that made her day better than wheelchair rugby can. Plus, she has a sensory experience that was like any other. Meanwhile, Jill saw most of TKFLASTANI Brian Bell and Team USA's men's wheelchair basketball team. Then she headed to Team USA's High Performance Center for a Wheelchair Fencing lesson with Paralympian Byron Branch before ending the day at Roland Garros with Wheelchair Tennis. Sports on today's program: Blind Football Boccia Goalball Para Archery Para Athletics Para Track Cycling Para Rowing Para Swimming Para Table Tennis Shooting Para Sport Sitting Volleyball Wheelchair Basketball Wheelchair Rugby Wheelchair Tennis   Don't forget - the only way that we're able to bring you this unique look at the Games is thanks to donations from listeners like you. Please support us financially so that we can continue to keep our flame alive. We have many ways to support us -- and if you sign up as a paid Patreon member, you'll get exclusive content! Our researcher for the Paralympics is Elizabeth Emery. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348    

The Paris 2024 Paralympics are officially open! We attended the Opening Ceremony...and we have opinions on the show, which in a first-ever moment for the Paralympics, took the Opening Ceremony out of the stadium and put it in the heart of the city (in a temporary stadium, but let's not get too in the weeds with that detail).   The ceremony covered a lot of ground over a long span of time, and the athletes marched down the Champs-Élysées into the stadium to great fanfare, which was a lot of fun to see. The torch arrived, had a long moment on stage, and then torchbearers got it to the Tuileries to turn on the hot air balloon that took back its rightful place in the Parisian night sky.   We each had a cultural adventure today--Jill saw part of the torch relay, while Alison went to Team USA's High Performance Center. We report back on those trips. Also, mixed zone tape with Marcel Hug and Matt Stutzman from Jill's trip to the Paralympic Village round out the episode.   Don't forget - the only way that we're able to bring you this unique look at the Games is thanks to donations from listeners like you. Please support us financially so that we can continue to keep our flame alive. We have many ways to support us -- and if you sign up as a paid Patreon member, you'll get exclusive content!   For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com.   Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive!   *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Olympics and Paralympics Fan Podcast with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown. New episodes released every week and daily during the Olympics and Paralympics. Also look for our monthly Games History Moment episodes in your feed.   Support the show: http://flamealivepod.com/support Bookshop.org store: https://bookshop.org/shop/flamealivepod   Hang out with us online: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/flamealivepod Insta: http://www.instagram.com/flamealivepod Twitter: http://www.twitter.com/flamealivepod Facebook Group: hhttps://www.facebook.com/groups/flamealivepod Newsletter: Sign up at https://mailchi.mp/ee507102fbf7/flamealivepod VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348