Podcasts about paralympian

Olympian, designer, entrepreneur, and new mom—Nina Ligon wears many hats, and she's learned not to box herself into just one. As Thailand's first female equestrian to compete at the Olympics, Nina broke barriers at the London 2012 Games in the sport of Three-Day Eventing. But when the competition ended, her real journey was just beginning. “I didn't want to define myself as the horse girl anymore,” she shares. “I wanted to discover who I was beyond that.” In this deeply personal conversation, Nina opens up about what came next—from stepping away from sport cold turkey to diving into Stanford's design labs, launching a career at Headspace, earning her MBA from Yale, and ultimately founding her own company, Generation Sport. Rooted in her own frustrations as a young athlete who never felt like uniforms were made for her body, Nina is now on a mission to build better sportswear with and for girls and women. “Young female athletes are under so much scrutiny in a way they've never been before. We're here to support them.” She shares the challenges of letting go of an identity that once defined her, the emotional pull of starting over, and what it means to lead as a new mom and business owner. “Being an entrepreneur gives me the flexibility to spend time with my son—but it also means the pressure stops with me.” Nina's message to fellow athletes in transition? “Let go of the need to be great right away. Be a beginner again. Be curious. That's where everything starts.” — Flame Bearers is a multimedia movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 270 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► / @flamebearers Follow us — Instagram: / flamebearers Facebook: / flamebearerspodcast LinkedIn: / flame-bearers TikTok: / flame_bearers X: / flame_bearers OUR WEBSITE: https://flamebearers.com/ Leave a comment and tell us what you liked in the video. If you like the content, do subscribe to our channel!

Welcome back to Home Base Nation! This is our sixth episode in a series where we talk with some of the folks at Home Base who wake up every day with the same mission in mind, regardless of their role at the Center of Excellence in the Navy Yard and beyond. Over the next several weeks, we will share the staff conversations I had with some of the hardworking professionals at Home Base who help treat the invisible wounds of veterans and military families. We have published 120 episodes since 2019. For this new season, we thought it would be a good idea to look back on some of the highlights of our conversations and select 20 episodes that resonated with veterans, service members, military families, and the civilians who support them.But first up, you'll hear from some of the folks at Home Base who wake up every day with the same mission in mind, no matter what they do at the Center of Excellence in the Navy Yard and beyond. For this episode, you will hear a brief conversation with Grace O'Halloran, a Speech Language Pathologist on the Brain Health Team at Home Base. A University of New Hampshire graduate, Grace earned her Master's in Speech-Language Pathology in 2023 at the MGH Institute of Health Professions.Following my conversation with Grace, you'll hear one of our first episodes on the show featuring Marine Veteran Kirstie Ennis. In her second deployment to Afghanistan in June 2012, Kirstie sustained polytraumatic injuries from a helicopter crash, including traumatic brain injury, facial and spine injuries, and leg trauma that eventually left her with an amputation above the knee.After being injured overseas, Kirstie went on to become a Paralympian snowboarder, a proud contestant at Prince Harry's 2016 Invictus Games, a Pat Tillman Awardee for Service, and a member of a Veteran team on a 1,000-mile trek across Great Britain with the organization Walking With The Wounded.She continues to push herself every day while giving back to others through mountaineering and world travel. Since 2016, Kirstie set out to climb the Seven Summits (the highest peaks on every continent) and has so far climbed six of them.In Honor of National Women Veterans Recognition Day on June 12th, we are thrilled to re-run this Episode with Kirstie.

Robyn Smith is someone who's track record in the inclusion space is second to none - CEO of Sport Inclusion Australia for 34 years, Assistant Chef de Mission for Sydney 2000 Paralympics, Member of the International Paralympic Committee, Governing Board Member of Virtus Sports....the list of her work is extensive and enduring. She's as passionate about grassroots sports inclusion for people with an intellectual disability, as she is about Brisbane 2032 and the opportunity for all our Paralympians. On top of all of this, Robyn is also unashamedly direct about the role women need to play in all sporting spaces. We are HUGE fans of this incredible individual. Libby and Georgie x We LOVE answering listener questions so if there's something you'd like to ask us, shoot us a DM HERE or write us an email (we accept all things!) - hello@playonmedia.com.au Hosts: Georgie and Libby Trickett Instagram: @beingsportish Website: www.playonmedia.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1994, as the genocide in Rwanda against the Tutsi minority unfolded, goalkeeper Eric Murangwa Eugene's life was in danger. Being a Tutsi, Eric had to beg for his life when five armed men showed up at his house to kill him. It was only when they recognised him as a footballer, and saw his photos as proof, that they left. Eric tells Jake Warren about spending the following months trying to evade capture and looks back at the moment that football helped save him. A Message Heard production.Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive and testimony. Sporting Witness is for those fascinated by sporting history. We take you to the events that have shaped the sports world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes, you become a fan in the stands as we take you back in time to examine memorable victories and agonising defeats from all over the world. You'll hear from people who have achieved sporting immortality, or those who were there as incredible sporting moments unfolded.Recent episodes explore the forgotten football Women's World Cup, the plasterer who fought a boxing legend, international football's biggest ever beating and the man who swam the Amazon river. We look at the lives of some of the most famous F1 drivers, tennis players and athletes as well as people who've had ground-breaking impact in their chosen sporting field, including: the most decorated Paralympian, the woman who was the number 1 squash player in the world for nine years, and the first figure skater to wear a hijab. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the tennis player who escaped the Nazis, how a man finally beat a horse in a race, and how the FIFA computer game was created.(Photo: Eric Murangwa Eugene. Credit: Katie Garner)

After qualifying for another World Champs, 3 x Paralympian Rachael Watson tells us about a school visit from Louise Savage and why swimming is her therapy as well as her competition. Talking to Declan Byrne on 'The Saturday Sledge' Watson also talks about setting up the city of Brisbane as an accessible place for the 2032 Paralympics and taking it from a 4/10 to a 9/10, plus why inspiring just one kid with a disability is all she strives to do.

Three world records in one day?!?!   Superstar paralympian Leanne Smith may be on the best form of her career following her recent performance at the World Series stop in Indianapolis where she won 5 events and broke 3 world records in the 50, 100, and 200 free with all records happening on the same day!    Following her diagnosis with dystonia, Leanne discovered swimming as part of her rehab but but the sport became an athletic pursuit as Leanne has amassed one of the most impressive resumes in swimming. Following her first Paralympics in Tokyo, Leanne smashed the 2022 Worlds where she won 7 gold medals! Then came a health setback that could have derailed her career, but she bounced back to make the 2023 Worlds team and still won a medal. Then came Paris where she won two individual Paralympic gold medals (50 & 100 free) and two silvers on relays.   Leanne is an inspiration and we had so much fun chatting with her and learning from one of the best to ever do it! Enjoy!

Dutch goalkeeper Eddy Treijtel played for Rotterdam giants, Feyenoord, more than 300 times. But one of his most talked about moments happened during a game against city rivals Sparta Rotterdam, in 1970. His goal kick, meant to pick out a striker, instead hit and killed a seagull. The dead bird was later stuffed and now resides in the club's museum.Eddy tells Johnny I'Anson about the moment that would go down in football folklore.Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive and testimony. Sporting Witness is for those fascinated by sporting history. We take you to the events that have shaped the sports world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes, you become a fan in the stands as we take you back in time to examine memorable victories and agonising defeats from all over the world. You'll hear from people who have achieved sporting immortality, or those who were there as incredible sporting moments unfolded.Recent episodes explore the forgotten football Women's World Cup, the plasterer who fought a boxing legend, international football's biggest ever beating and the man who swam the Amazon river. We look at the lives of some of the most famous F1 drivers, tennis players and athletes as well as people who've had ground-breaking impact in their chosen sporting field, including: the most decorated Paralympian, the woman who was the number 1 squash player in the world for nine years, and the first figure skater to wear a hijab. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the tennis player who escaped the Nazis, how a man finally beat a horse in a race, and how the FIFA computer game was created.(Photo: Seagull. Credit: Thomas Winz)

“I chose not to decide—and that led me here.” Growing up on a small Swiss farm with nine siblings, Anna Jurt learned early that resilience wasn't optional—it was survival. Now, at just 23, she's a European Vice Champion and a Paris 2024 Olympiqn in one of the most grueling and misunderstood sports: Modern Pentathlon. In this conversation, Anna opens up about her unconventional path—from exchanging her mom's prized cow for a “unicorn” pony to finding her calling in a sport that demands mastery of five disciplines. “It's not about the results. It's about loving the process.” With a new format shaking up her sport and her own setbacks on the road to Paris, Anna shares what it really takes to push through failure, adapt, and thrive under pressure. Her advice? “Be patient. Put in the work. Even if it's not the outcome you expect, something good will come.” Whether you're an athlete or just navigating life's obstacles, Anna's story will have you rethinking how you measure success—and resilience. -------- Take our Community Member Survey for a chance to win a special Flame Bearers package of swag, the ability to join an upcoming athlete interview, and special access to an upcoming Flame Bearers event: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/FTQD8M3 Flame Bearers is a multimedia movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 270 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► /@flamebearers Follow us - Instagram - /flamebearers Facebook - /flamebearerspodcast LinkedIn - /flame-bearers TikTok - /flame_bearers X - /flame_bearers Our Website- https://flamebearers.com/

Today, Penneys launched the findings of its latest Pulse of the Nation Index, conducted by Amárach Research, which revealed that 40% of the general public believe that disabled people are treated unfairly in Ireland.Paralympian and disability advocate, Ellen Keane, says that disabled people should no longer be an afterthought in fashion conversation.She joins Kieran to discuss.

This week we chat with the incredible Katie Kelly - 2 time Paralympian, Australian representative in Blind Cricket, and Founder of the Sport Access Foundation. We chat about the challenge (and opportunity) of playing sport in a country town, aquiring your disability, hiking to Everest Base Camp and how organisaitons like the Australian Sporting Alliance for People With A Disability can help kids and families connect with sport. THE BEST PART? She's just launched the Sport Access Foundations 2025 Grant Program and you can get involved by sending this episode to a family with disability who needs a little help in accessing sport. Libby and Georgie x We LOVE answering listener questions so if there's something you'd like to ask us, shoot us a DM HERE or write us an email (we accept all things!) - hello@playonmedia.com.au Hosts: Georgie and Libby Trickett Instagram: @beingsportish Website: www.playonmedia.com.au/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Bayern Munich were minutes away from winning the Champions League in 1999, before two late Manchester United goals. In 2001, they had a chance at redemption. To do this they had to beat Spanish side Valencia, who were in the final for the second year running after losing to Real Madrid in 2000. In a match with 17 penalties, it would ultimately be Bayern who won the title in dramatic fashion. Michael Henke was the assistant coach for Bayern Munich in 1999 and 2001. He speaks to Tim O'Callaghan. Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive and testimony. Sporting Witness is for those fascinated by sporting history. We take you to the events that have shaped the sports world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes, you become a fan in the stands as we take you back in time to examine memorable victories and agonising defeats from all over the world. You'll hear from people who have achieved sporting immortality, or those who were there as incredible sporting moments unfolded.Recent episodes explore the forgotten football Women's World Cup, the plasterer who fought a boxing legend, international football's biggest ever beating and the man who swam the Amazon river. We look at the lives of some of the most famous F1 drivers, tennis players and athletes as well as people who've had ground-breaking impact in their chosen sporting field, including: the most decorated Paralympian, the woman who was the number 1 squash player in the world for nine years, and the first figure skater to wear a hijab. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the tennis player who escaped the Nazis, how a man finally beat a horse in a race, and how the FIFA computer game was created.(Photo: Bayern Munich captain Stefan Effenberg lifting the Champions League trophy. Credit: Alex Livesey/All Sport via Getty)

This week on The Sports Agents...Gabby and Mark get a rare access all areas pass to go behind the scenes at Sale Sharks rugby club, from training to the team meeting to interviews with Lions and England players Tom Curry, Ben Curry and George Ford. (02:45)Four-time Olympic champion sprinter Michael Johnson has launched a new league to make athletics popular outside the Olympics, he tells us how it's going so far. (08:15)Britain's most decorated Paralympian, Sarah Storey, joins Professor Kirsty Elliot-Sale from Manchester Metropolitan University, to explain their mission to extend the careers of female athletes through menopause support. (13:15)Ahead of the Champions League final, Italian football writer James Horncastle, explains why this match isn't the end of the road for Inter Milan. (19:30)Got a question for The Sports Agents - email us at thesportsagents@global.com New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

This week on The Sports Agents...Gabby and Mark get a rare access all areas pass to go behind the scenes at Sale Sharks rugby club, from training to the team meeting to interviews with Lions and England players Tom Curry, Ben Curry and George Ford. (02:45)Four-time Olympic champion sprinter Michael Johnson has launched a new league to make athletics popular outside the Olympics, he tells us how it's going so far. (08:15)Britain's most decorated Paralympian, Sarah Storey, joins Professor Kirsty Elliot-Sale from Manchester Metropolitan University, to explain their mission to extend the careers of female athletes through menopause support. (13:15)Ahead of the Champions League final, Italian football writer James Horncastle, explains why this match isn't the end of the road for Inter Milan. (19:30)Got a question for The Sports Agents - email us at thesportsagents@global.com New episodes every Tuesday and Thursday.

We welcome back sports psychologist Dr. Kristin Keim to talk about the kinds of mental health issues Olympians, Paralympians and other elite athletes are facing in 2025. This includes finding your voice, what it's like to be an American athlete today, social media, cyberbullying, disordered eating, and more.  As always, Kristin is frank about the pressures athletes face today and about the advice she gives her clients. It's definitely therapeutic to listen to her! Learn more about Kristin at her website, and follow her on Instagram. We also have a ton of news from the Olympic world, including updates from: Paris 2024 - A cyberbullying sentence, swimming in the Seine, venue legacy news. Milano-Cortina 2026 - Plan B scrapped, and an upate about Russian and Belorussian athlete participation. LA 2028 - Opening and Closing Ceremonies venues - the possibility of air taxis - public transport news - a farewell to cardboard beds? Plus, tons of members of Team Keep the Flame Alive are doing things to make TKFLASTAN proud! Also check out Listener Tommy's website (https://tommyaphillips.com/medal-mayhem/) to see how he did in projecting the medals at Paris 2024. 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 Rep TKFLASTAN with merch: 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          

“I've realized that the only competition I really have is myself.” At just 18 years old, Amy Thompson is already rewriting the narrative of what it means to be an elite athlete. A British F41 shot putter gunning for the LA 2028 Paralympics, Amy is more than a powerhouse on the field—she's a fierce advocate, scientist-in-training, and pianist who refuses to be put in a box. She shares, “People with dwarfism are often boxed in just as they're seen as being incapable...Anyone with dwarfism has equal opportunity... to be whoever they want to be and do whatever they want to do.” Amy first discovered para sport through the Dwarf Sports Association at age 8 and won gold at her first international competition in Italy by 15. But the journey hasn't been easy. After losing her coach to cancer, she found a new calling: biomedical science, with aspirations to study oncology. “It was quite difficult, because he was the one that brought me to my first ever international competition...but I know I can move on.” In this episode, Amy opens up about battling media misrepresentation, reclaiming language around disability, and why young athletes should stop comparing themselves to others. “You've always got to know that they're not going to affect you as much as you can affect yourself.” From underfunded competitions to under-covered sports, Amy wants the world to stop underestimating para athletes. Her call to action? “Do your research. Learn about the athlete. We work just as hard—if not harder—than anyone else.” --------- Flame Bearers is a multi media movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 350 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► / @flamebearers Follow us - Instagram - / flamebearers Facebook - / flamebearerspodcast Linkedin - / flame-bearers Tiktok - / flame_bearers X - / flame_bearers Our Website- https://flamebearers.com/

Austin “Wade” Wilson, PhD, CMPC, is a Certified Mental Performance Consultant with nearly two decades of experience in the field of mental performance and 10-plus years of experience researching, teaching, lecturing, and supervising at the post-secondary level. He has designed and taught post-secondary level courses in general sport and exercise psychology, applied mental performance, psychology of injury, and sociology of sport. He is the President & Owner of Wilson Mental Performance Consulting (WMPC) and the President & Director of The MENTOR Magazine, Inc. (TMM). Since 2008, Wade has been a member of several professional associations and has equipped athletes, students, coaches, and professionals from various sectors with the mental acumen required for peak performance.His approach integrates a systematic process of education, acquisition, and implementation of mental training skills into practice and performance regimes. His clientele spans from varsity and ESports athletes to Paralympians, extending beyond sports to include military, sales, and business sectors. Wade's academic credentials include a Ph.D. in Recreation and Leisure Studies from the University of Waterloo, a Master's in Human Kinetics from the University of Windsor, and an Honours BA in Sport Psychology from Laurentian University. He also holds an Advanced Diploma as a Child and Youth Worker from Loyalist College, a Professional Certificate in Cognitive Behaviour Therapy from Wilfrid Laurier University and has received certified professional training for cognitive behaviour therapy and single-session therapy.In 2023, he achieved the status of Certified Mental Performance Consultant (CMPC) with the Association of Applied Sport Psychology and has recently joined the registry of approved supervisors. As a former athlete, Wade has competed in various sports, both artistic/aesthetic and power/performance, with ice hockey being his primary interest.Wade was a goaltender at the Junior C, and Junior A, and had a rapid cup of coffee at the U-Sport varsity level. Off the field, Wade enjoys walks with his rescue greyhounds, Willa and Pearl, listening to jazz music, and cheering for his favourite NFL team, the Baltimore Ravens. Born in Trenton, Ontario, and having grown up in Tweed, Ontario, with stopovers in Sudbury and Winsor, he now resides with his wife and stepdaughter in Kitchener, Ontario.Chapters:0:00 – Introduction4:45 – Exploring Mental Performance and Toughness8:32 – Strategies to Eliminate Distractions and Maintain Peak Performance12:40 – Mental Performance vs. Creative Thinking: What's the Difference?15:19 – What is Mentor Magazine and Who is It For?19:29 – Understanding “Psollogy” in Ontario and Why It Matters25:40 – The Role of Athletes in Mentor Magazine: Are Inserts Possible?29:06 – How Parents Can Get Involved with Mentor Magazine32:23 – Growth Mindset vs. Fixed Mindset: How to Tell the Difference35:48 – Navigating the Injury Process: What You Need to Know41:54 – Healing from Concussions: Timeframes and Individual Recovery44:13 – Benefits and Cost of Mentor Magazine: What to Expect→ CONTACT WADE ON SOCIAL MEDIA ←INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/thementormagazineinc/WEBSITE: https://thementormagazine.caX/TWITTER: https://x.com/TMMIncMagazineYOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@TheMentorMagazineInc→ CONTACT ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA ←15 MINUTE DISCOVERY CALL: https://calendly.com/rorymitchell-biz/15-minute-discovery-call?month=2025-02 INSTAGRAM: https://www.instagram.com/officially.rory/YOUTUBE: https://www.youtube.com/@officiallyroryBUY ME A COFFEE: https://buymeacoffee.com/officiallyroryX: https://twitter.com/officiallyrory HOO.BE: https://hoo.be/officiallyroryPAYPAL DONATIONS: https://www.paypal.com/paypalme/rorymitch

It's National AccessAbility Week. Today on the show we ask what does accessibility really mean? And we talk about the what role a disability advocate could play in Newfoundland and Labrador. Guests: Nancy Reid, executive director COD NL; Joanne MacDonald accessibility advocate and Paralympian; Paul Power, Power Productions; Paul Walsh, CEO, Autism Society, Newfoundland & Labrador; Valerie Maidment, advocate and author; Steve Denty manager, commercial development and customer experience with St. John's International Airport.

In 2000, Mongolian wrestlers began to transform the traditional Japanese sport of sumo, introducing innovative techniques and reshaping the competitive landscape. Mokonami Sakae, one of the pioneers, overcame cultural and physical challenges to make his mark in the ring. But the rise of Mongolian sumo wrestlers was not without controversy. A Made in Manchester production presented by Ashley Byrne.Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive and testimony. Sporting Witness is for those fascinated by sporting history. We take you to the events that have shaped the sports world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes, you become a fan in the stands as we take you back in time to examine memorable victories and agonising defeats from all over the world. You'll hear from people who have achieved sporting immortality, or those who were there as incredible sporting moments unfolded.(Photo: Sumo tournament Credit: David Mareuil/Anadolu Agency via Getty Images)Recent episodes explore the forgotten football Women's World Cup, the plasterer who fought a boxing legend, international football's biggest ever beating and the man who swam the Amazon river. We look at the lives of some of the most famous F1 drivers, tennis players and athletes as well as people who've had ground-breaking impact in their chosen sporting field, including: the most decorated Paralympian, the woman who was the number 1 squash player in the world for nine years, and the first figure skater to wear a hijab. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the tennis player who escaped the Nazis, how a man finally beat a horse in a race, and how the FIFA computer game was created.

To watch this episode, tune in on the Flame Bearers YouTube Channel -------------------------- “Even if I fail, I'm loved and I have purpose.” That's the mindset that carried Team USA wrestler Alexandria Glaudé through two years of injury, three surgeries, and a massive comeback not many saw coming. From losing her father at age seven to being cut from her high school basketball team, Alexandria's path to wrestling was anything but traditional. “Fine, if I get cut from basketball, I'll join wrestling,” she joked with friends—never thinking she'd actually be cut. The next day, she was. And the rest? “The choice was made for me,” she laughs. In this interview, Alexandria takes us behind the scenes of her stunning US Open victory, what it took to get back to competition, and the unshakable faith that fuels her. “Wrestling is just a tool God gave me to connect with people,” she reflects. She shares how her injury became an unexpected gift, helping her grow spiritually and personally: “If I'm going to be in alignment with God's plan, that doesn't always mean I'm going to get what I want.” She also gets real about body image, content creation, and what beauty means on her terms. “I used to think I was too big,” she says. “But once I saw what my body could do, I knew I was made this way on purpose.” Now balancing elite training and a growing digital platform (without a manager), Alexandria is blazing her own path. “I had a Trader Joe's application up,” she chuckles, “but I decided to treat social media like a job.” Her call to action? Simple and powerful: “Go to a women's wrestling tournament. Show up. Cheer. See what we're about.” Photo provided by Alexandria — Flame Bearers is a multimedia movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 270 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► /@flamebearers Follow us - Instagram - /flamebearers Facebook - /flamebearerspodcast LinkedIn - /flame-bearers TikTok - /flame_bearers X - /flame_bearers Our Website - https://flamebearers.com/ If you like the content, subscribe to our channel! Flame Bearers is actively looking for partners, so if you'd like to work together, please fill out the contact form at Flamebearers.com

On both sides of the Atlantic disabled people are protesting, despite the sometimes tricky logistics.In the UK, a mass lobby event was held on 21 May at Westminster to enable disabled people to 'green card' their MP. That means the MP is informed their constituent is waiting for them in Parliament and they should go and meet them. The hot topic for this event was the £5bn welfare cuts announced in the Spring Statement. But how successful was it? Access All's Alex Collins goes to meet those who have travelled from across the country to be there and Emma Tracey chats with Svetlana Kotova from disabled peoples organisation, Inclusion London. Across the Atlantic, American activists have also been out in force. Last week 26 disabled people were arrested in Congress when they disrupted a debate around Medicaid and who gets government-funded health and social care. Domonique Howell, from US disability advocacy organisation Adapt, was one of those to be arrested and talks about her experience, while veteran protester, Julie Farrar, talks about the importance of direct action.Plus Ellie Simmonds: Should I Have Children? That's the thought-provoking title of the Paralympian come TV presenter's new documentary, which explores the decisions parents make when told their unborn child could be disabled. She chats about how it shaped her feelings around having children as a woman with an impairment that could be passed on, and what she learned by spending time with couples at a specialist foetal medicine unit.Presented by Emma Tracey Producer and reporter: Alex Collins Sound by Dave O'Neill Editors: Damon Rose and Beth Rose

In May 1985 Hong Kong inflicted an unexpected footballing defeat on their neighbours and rivals China in a World Cup qualifying game in Beijing. The disappointed Chinese fans rioted and the Hong Kong team had to flee to the safety of their hotel. They later returned home to a hero's welcome. In 2017 Ashley Byrne spoke to former Hong Kong manager, Lawrence Yu Kam-kee. A Made in Manchester production.Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive and testimony. Sporting Witness is for those fascinated by sporting history. We take you to the events that have shaped the sports world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes, you become a fan in the stands as we take you back in time to examine memorable victories and agonising defeats from all over the world. You'll hear from people who have achieved sporting immortality, or those who were there as incredible sporting moments unfolded.Recent episodes explore the forgotten football Women's World Cup, the plasterer who fought a boxing legend, international football's biggest ever beating and the man who swam the Amazon river. We look at the lives of some of the most famous F1 drivers, tennis players and athletes as well as people who've had ground-breaking impact in their chosen sporting field, including: the most decorated Paralympian, the woman who was the number 1 squash player in the world for nine years, and the first figure skater to wear a hijab. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the tennis player who escaped the Nazis, how a man finally beat a horse in a race, and how the FIFA computer game was created.This programme has been updated since the original broadcast.(Photo: The Hong Kong team are mobbed by fans on their return. Credit: South China Morning Post via Getty Images)

“ That's how I learn life. I look at it, I visualize myself doing it, and then I execute. And if it doesn't feel right, I can feel it. I can see it, almost like a third person's view. That's the way I've approached life; that's the way I've been able to really reel in on what I'm good at and what I'm not good at.”   Ryan Medrano has faced his share of challenges—he was born with mild cerebral palsy, which caused motor and cognitive delays, and was often bullied as a child because of it. But as he learned to walk and read social signals, he gained knowledge about himself and the world that would eventually allow him to excel in sports and life.   He met previous podcast guest Noelle Lambert when both were cast members on season 43 of Survivor. Noelle—who was already competing in para track & field —convinced Ryan he, too, should return to the sport (he'd run in high school) at the elite level. And within two years, he'd won a silver medal at World Championships, gold at the ParaPan American Games, and two silvers, in the T38 100 meters and 400 meters, at the Paralympics in Paris.   All that success came despite frequently competing in pain related to his disability—his mental game, including his use of imagery and self-talk, has long been incredibly strong. But as his athletic career continues, he's learning more about his body and what it needs to recover well and feel good. And along the way, he shares his passion with the next generation through his work as a motivational speaker.   Resources/links: Ryan's Instagram, TikTok Episode 145 with Noelle Lambert    A huge thank you to LEVER Movement, the exclusive sponsor of season 8 of The Injured Athletes Club podcast! The LEVER system is an innovative way to reduce your body weight, and the impact on your joints, while exercising on a treadmill. Use the code “TIAC20” to get 20% off your purchase.    You can subscribe to The Injured Athletes Club on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Audible, Amazon Music, or wherever you get your podcasts, and if you like what you hear, please leave us a rating or a review in Apple podcasts. That helps other injured athletes find the show.   To access more resources for injured athletes: Buy Rebound: Train Your Mind to Bounce Back Stronger from Sports Injuries —now available as an audiobook! Buy Injured Athletes Club merchandise, including hoodies, stickers, patches, journals, mugs, hats, and gift cards Access webinar videos, mental rehab e-courses, and more great resources for injured athletes while supporting our work Join The Injured Athletes Club mailing list, for news and updates Join The Injured Athletes Club Facebook group, for support and camaraderie Like The Injured Athletes Club Podcast Facebook page, for the latest episodes Email us at hello@injuredathletesclub.com with questions, guest suggestions, or other feedback   DISCLAIMER: This content is for educational & informational use only and & does not constitute medical advice. Do not disregard, avoid or delay obtaining medical or health related advice from your health-care professional because of something you may have heard in an episode of this podcast. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult with a qualified medical professional for proper evaluation & treatment. Guests who speak on this podcast express their own opinions, experiences, and conclusions, and The Injured Athletes Club podcast hosts nor any company providing financial support endorses or opposes any particular treatment option discussed in the episodes of this podcast and are not responsible for any actions or inactions of listeners based on the information presented. The use of any information provided is solely at your own risk.  

“Self-confidence is key. You've just got to focus on yourself.” Lauren Scruggs isn't just making history—she's rewriting it. A two-time Olympic medalist and the first Black American woman to win an individual fencing medal, Lauren's journey has never followed the script. Raised by a single mom, often the only Black girl on the fencing strip, and now a Harvard senior studying philosophy and finance, she shares, "I didn't plan to make history, but now I get to be that person someone else looks up to.” In this UNEDITED conversations, Lauren opens up about competing in a predominantly white, wealthy sport and the mindset her mom instilled in her early on: “It's you against the world.” She shares the confidence it took to navigate elite fencing circuits, her belief in the power of representation, and how the Peter Westbrook Foundation is helping create space for more kids who look like her. Her recommendation? “Self-confidence is key. You've just got to focus on yourself" and at times you may have to "Be a little selfish... put your headphones on." From crushing Olympic goals to preparing for a career in finance, Lauren's thinking big—and giving back. “Unfortunately, money is what you need to do things—and if I can help people understand that system, I will.” Whether it's mentoring kids on Saturdays or dreaming of expanding access to fencing, her mission is clear: push forward and bring others with you. Her advice for younger Lauren—and for all of us? “Just keep going.” Photo provided by Lauren Scruggs citing Augusto Bizzi. --------- Flame Bearers is a multi media movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 270 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► /@flamebearers Follow us - Instagram - /flamebearers Facebook - /flamebearerspodcast LinkedIn - /flame-bearers TikTok - /flame_bearers X - /flame_bearers Our Website - https://flamebearers.com/

Jamie Mittelman was inspired to live life with passion and fervor after experiencing the loss of her father.   A lover of sports and a deep believer in the power of stories to change lives, Jamie found her passion and purpose  in elevating women's stories at the highest level of sports.  Jamie is the founder and host of Flame Bearers, a platform dedicated to celebrating and sharing the stories of elite women athletes. With a master's degree in public administration from Harvard and seven years of experience in both the corporate and nonprofit communication sectors, Jamie is a passionate advocate for gender equity in sports. Throughout her life, sports have been a source of joyous, challenging, and defining moments, shaping her commitment to elevating diverse voices and inspiring people of all ages with powerful stories of perseverance and achievement.    What You Will Hear in This Episode:  01:56 Jamie's Journey and Mission 11:42 The Future of Women's Sports 15:57 Challenges of Female Athletes 30:43 Where to Start and Final Thoughts    Quotes “I realized that life is not a dress rehearsal and it really pushed me to challenge how I thought of myself, what I was doing every day and to go for exactly what I wanted.” “Anyone can find their inner Olympian or Paralympian if they've never even played sports before.” “The traits that make Olympians and Paralympians literally the best in the world are traits that I can copy, you can copy.” “Small actions can lead to big change.”   .Mentioned: Website: Flamebearers.com LinkedIn: Jamie Mittelman Instagram: Flame Bearers TikTok: Flame Bearers Facebook: Flame Bearers Twitter/X: Flame Bearers eConnect with Bonnie https://substack.com/@ownyourambition Gendered Ageism Survey Results Forbes article 5 Tips to own the superpower of your age IAMMusicGroup   Purchase my book Not Done Yet on Amazon:  If you enjoyed this episode of Badass Women Podcast, then make sure to subscribe to the podcast and drop us a five-star review.  

Host Patrick McEnroe interviews Dana Mathewson, a celebrated wheelchair tennis player and the first American woman to win a major wheelchair title in doubles. Dana shares her journey into tennis, which began after a rare autoimmune disease left her paralyzed at age 10.The conversation explores themes of overcoming setbacks, the importance of resilience, and Dana's experiences traveling the world for tournaments. Dana also reflects on the significance of representing her country in the Paralympics and her desire to raise the profile of wheelchair tennis in the United States. Dana shares her plans to stay involved in tennis through coaching and commentary, and her efforts to advocate for greater inclusion and accessibility for people with disabilities.Dana Mathewson is a trailblazer in U.S. wheelchair tennis, recognized as one of the sport's most prominent figures. A three-time Paralympian and the top-ranked American woman, Dana made history in 2022 as the first American woman to win a Grand Slam title with her doubles victory at Wimbledon. Over her illustrious career, Dana secured 16 singles titles and 32 doubles titles. At the 2023 Para PanAmerican Games in Santiago, Chile, she captured gold medals in both singles and doubles and was honored by her Team USA teammates as a flag bearer. In 2024, she broke new ground again as the first American to compete at the Miami Open Wheelchair Tennis Championship.

Tiarnán O'Donnell,Paralympic Rower, Represented Ireland at Paralympics in Paris and joins Ray in studio to chat about the difficulties paralympians here face in getting their prosthetics.

Welcome to this inspiring episode of the Stang Stories podcast! Ladia Khaing sits down with Jamie Mittelman, a Milton alumna and CEO of Flamebearers, a platform dedicated to uplifting the stories of female Olympians and Paralympians. Jamie shares insights from her time at Milton, her eclectic educational and professional journey, and her ardent passion for advocating women's stories in sports media. Discover how Jamie went from participating in a multitude of extracurricular activities at Milton, to earning advanced degrees from prestigious institutions, and eventually finding her calling in supporting women athletes globally. She discusses the challenges and adversities faced in promoting women's sports and the transformative power of storytelling in making real-world impacts. Join us for a conversation that celebrates resilience, inspiration, and the drive to make a positive change in the world through the power of storytelling and advocacy.

In 2000, keen cricketer Paul Hawkins wanted to turn his passion into innovation when he created the technology we now know as ‘HawkEye' and goal line technology. It was first used in cricket in 2001.Then, after several controversial sporting moments, involving Serena Williams and Frank Lampard, it was introduced in tennis and football. Now it's used in more than 25 sports around the world. 50-year-old Paul Hawkins tells Megan Jones he's not ready to hang up his bat, racket, or boots just yet. Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive and testimony. Sporting Witness is for those fascinated by sporting history. We take you to the events that have shaped the sports world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes, you become a fan in the stands as we take you back in time to examine memorable victories and agonising defeats from all over the world. You'll hear from people who have achieved sporting immortality, or those who were there as incredible sporting moments unfolded.Recent episodes explore the forgotten football Women's World Cup, the plasterer who fought a boxing legend, international football's biggest ever beating and the man who swam the Amazon river. We look at the lives of some of the most famous F1 drivers, tennis players and athletes as well as people who've had ground-breaking impact in their chosen sporting field, including: the most decorated Paralympian, the woman who was the number 1 squash player in the world for nine years, and the first figure skater to wear a hijab. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the tennis player who escaped the Nazis, how a man finally beat a horse in a race, and how the FIFA computer game was created.(Photo: Dr. Paul Hawkins, inventor of the Hawk-Eye system. Credit: AP Photo/Nick Wass)

“In the track and field world, every four years is a whole new story, a whole new plan. Everyone's trying to rush to get things together. I think for us coming off a crazy Paris, having an idea of the direction we're going and the team that's going to help us get to that place is really exciting, so we're really looking forward to the next four years.”My guests for today's episode are two of the most electric and inspiring figures in track and field: Tara Davis-Woodhall and Hunter Woodhall. They're not just standout athletes; they're also a powerhouse couple rewriting the playbook on how to achieve success in the sport and market themselves.Fresh off of double gold medal performances in Paris, Tara and Hunter have just signed with Nike. In this episode, we chat with them about why they chose to go with the swoosh, but also, more importantly for Hunter, why it signals the brand's deeper commitment to Paralympic athletes.Tara, a two-time Olympian and the reigning Olympic and world indoor champion in the long jump, is just as magnetic off the runway as she is on it. Hunter, a three-time Paralympian and five-time medalist, just captured his first gold in the 400m T62 in Paris and has been pushing the limits of what's possible in adaptive sport since day one.In this episode, we chat about what they're building beyond the medals and what's next for two of the sport's most compelling athletes to follow up an astounding 2024.Hosts: Chris Chavez | ⁠@chris_j_chavez on InstagramGuests: Tara Davis-Woodhall | _tarraa_ on Instagram + Hunter Woodhall on InstagramSUPPORT OUR SPONSORSOLIPOP: Olipop is a prebiotic soda that tastes like a throwback to your favorite childhood drinks, but it's loaded with benefits that your body will thank you for. Each can has 2-5g of sugar, 6-9g of fiber, and a science-backed formula designed to help you support your digestive health. You can grab Olipop at Target, Whole Foods, and Walmart or you can go to DrinkOlipop.com and use promo code CITIUS25 at checkout for 25% off all of your orders.GRAND SLAM TRACK: This isn't your average track meet. This is Grand Slam Track, where legends are made, records fall, and the stakes are high. After a sellout crowd in Miami and $100,000 awarded to each Slam champion, the league now heads to one of the most iconic stages in American track: Franklin Field in Philadelphia, May 30th-June 1st. Grab your tickets now at GrandSlamTrack.com and witness it all packed into one unforgettable weekend. Grand Slam Track: bigger stakes, bigger stars, and a fan experience that hits different.SWIFTWICK: Socks: sometimes you don't think about them until you do – like mile eight of a long run when your heels are on fire or when your sock has mysteriously vanished into your shoe. That's why we're teaming up with SWIFTWICK: the go-to sock brand for endurance athletes who care about performance and longevity. For a limited time, CITIUS MAG listeners get 15% off your first order with the code CITIUSMAG at checkout.VELOUS: Recover smarter with VELOUS' new active adjustable slide! Tired feet? VELOUS has you covered. VELOUS just launched the NEW Active Adjustable Slide, designed to take your recovery to the next level. With a perfectly contoured midsole, these slides maximize cushioning and support to help ease tired feet and legs. Run. Recover. Repeat with VELOUS. Check out the entire collection and enjoy 20% off your purchase by entering code CITIUSMAG20 at checkout!

“I was always a nerd who just happened to be fast.” LaVonne Idlette didn't fit the mold—and she never tried to. While most Olympians are laser focused on podiums, LaVonne was balancing elite track training and law school, sprinting toward the London 2012 Games with a briefcase in hand. Today, she's a lawyer, entrepreneur, and unapologetic powerhouse helping fellow athletes become the CEOs of their own lives. In this episode of Flame Bearers: UNEDITED LaVonne gets real about everything from training behind a moving car (yes, that happened) to building affordable housing and rewriting what legacy means. Her message? Own your power—on and off the track. “Your financial advisor works for you,” she says. “You're the boss here.” Now the author of The Hidden Wealth Code (details below), LaVonne is teaching athletes how to protect their privacy, preserve their assets, and lead with purpose. Her real-life “asset protection games” turn financial planning into an interactive playbook—especially for athletes who've been taught to stay in their lane instead of run their empire. And when it comes to women in sport? She's not sugarcoating it. “We don't all have to hug it out,” she says. “Let women be fierce. Let them be rivals. That's what builds fandom.” Her advice? “Fail forward. And if it won't matter in five years, give it five minutes—then move.” Whether she's challenging financial norms or calling out double standards in women's sports, LaVonne is redefining what strength, strategy, and self-worth look like. Pre-order LaVonne's book here: https://hiddenwealthcodebook.com/ -------- Flame Bearers is a multimedia movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 270 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► /@flamebearers Follow us – Instagram – /flamebearers Facebook – /flamebearerspodcast LinkedIn – /flame-bearers TikTok – /flame_bearers X – /flame_bearers Our Website – https://flamebearers.com/

The story of the longest consistently run cycling grand tour for women. Now known as the Giro Rosa, the Giro D'Italia Femminile was first raced in 1988. The race featured a total of nine stages with an average of 87km per day. The winner was Italian Maria Canins. When she started cycling, she was nicknamed ‘Mama Volante' – ‘The Flying Mother' – as she was a 32-year-old mother who was originally an accomplished cross country skier. She tells Tom Whalley about that first race. A TBone production.Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive and testimony. Sporting Witness is for those fascinated by sporting history. We take you to the events that have shaped the sports world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes, you become a fan in the stands as we take you back in time to examine memorable victories and agonising defeats from all over the world. You'll hear from people who have achieved sporting immortality, or those who were there as incredible sporting moments unfolded.Recent episodes explore the forgotten football Women's World Cup, the plasterer who fought a boxing legend, international football's biggest ever beating and the man who swam the Amazon river. We look at the lives of some of the most famous F1 drivers, tennis players and athletes as well as people who've had ground-breaking impact in their chosen sporting field, including: the most decorated Paralympian, the woman who was the number 1 squash player in the world for nine years, and the first figure skater to wear a hijab. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the tennis player who escaped the Nazis, how a man finally beat a horse in a race, and how the FIFA computer game was created.(Photo: Maria Canins in the 1986 Tour de France Feminin. Credit: Rene Boulay/ Creative Commons)

“I want them to see Natoya Goule in a different way…not just the runner, but the woman, the warrior, the believer.” Jamaican middle-distance star, Natoya Goule has long been known for her speed and tenacity on the track. A three-time Olympian and ADIDAS ambassador, she's one of the fastest women in the world over 800 meters. But as Natoya reveals in this intimate conversation, her real power lies not just in her stride—but in her spirit. From growing up in Manchester Jamaica, competing in school sports days with her older brother to representing her country on the biggest stages in sport, Natoya's journey has been anything but what she expected. "I didn't even know about the Olympics," and then Veronica Campbell came on the scene, and changed everything. She opens up about hidden injuries, a terrifying car accident, and the relentless pressure of proving herself year after year. “People don't see the behind-the-scenes,” she says. “They see the race, not the fight it took to get there.” Faith is her foundation. “God gave me my talent and He gets me through everything. When I wanted to give up, He gave me purpose.” Whether it's running through pain, building a global Bible study group with fellow athletes like Nicola McDermott, or advocating for equal pay in women's sports, Natoya's strength goes far beyond the track. In this conversation, she speaks openly about the power of representation, the tradeoffs she's made for sport, and the beauty of building a life with someone who shares her Olympic dreams—her husband. Her hope? That people see her—and all women athletes—for their full selves. “We're not just out here to look pretty. We're powerful. We're worthy. And we're here to stay.” Photos provided by Natoya with her approval to use. ------- Flame Bearers is a multimedia movement, illuminating the unsung stories of exceptional women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and have worked with over 300 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about exceptional women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► /@flamebearers Follow us: Instagram - /flamebearers Facebook - /flamebearerspodcast LinkedIn - /flame-bearers TikTok - /flame_bearers X - /flame_bearers Our Website - https://flamebearers.com/

In episode #139 of the Especially for Athletes Podcast, we tackle a tough moment many athletes face, the heartbreak of being cut from a team. Whether you’ve just experienced this setback or are coaching athletes who have, this episode is for you. We explore how to respond with resilience, work ethic, and perseverance, using the stories of remarkable athletes like Doug Meechum, Elsie Murphy, and Jeff Griffin. Key Takeaways: Respond with Work – Doug Meechum shares his story of being cut from his high school team, but instead of giving up, he went to work, got feedback, and returned the next year to earn a spot. As he puts it, “Go to work and make it so they can’t cut you next year.” Resilience is about turning setbacks into motivation and putting in the effort to prove yourself. Dream a New Dream – When Elsie Murphy faced rejection for four years in a row, she didn’t let it define her. Instead, she shifted her focus to become an equipment manager, earning a scholarship and a career in athletics. Similarly, Jeff Griffin, after a life-changing injury, redirected his focus and became a Paralympian. When one dream ends, you can always create a new one and continue to apply your work ethic to something else meaningful. Failure is Not Final – As Michael Jordan famously said, “I’ve missed more than 9,000 shots… I’ve failed over and over again in my life, and that’s why I succeed.” Failure is part of the journey, but it’s how you respond that defines your future success. Whether you keep working or dream a new dream, resilience and perseverance will always lead you to the next step. This episode is a powerful reminder that setbacks are not the end. They are opportunities to rise, to redirect your efforts, and to keep pushing toward your goals, no matter what the road ahead looks like. Especially for Athletes: Website: https://e4a.orgFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/EspeciallyForAthletes/Twitter: https://twitter.com/E4AfamilyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/especiallyforathletes/YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCmbWc7diAvstLMfjBL-bMMQ Join the conversation using #TheSportlightPodcast Credits: Hosted by Shad MartinProduced by IMAGINATE STUDIO See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.Support the show: https://especiallyforathletes.com/podcast/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 2003, Kwame Nkruman-Acheampong put skis on for the first time. Seven years later, he was competing in slalom at the Vancouver Olympics, the first Ghanaian to ever qualify for the winter games. Kwame grew up in Ghana, but in 2002, at the age of 28, he moved back to UK. To support himself through his masters degree, Kwame decided to get a job and ended up working at the local indoor ski centre in Milton Keynes. Dubbed the "Snow Leopard," he tells Harry Stott how he qualified for the games. A Message Heard production. Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive and testimony. Sporting Witness is for those fascinated by sporting history. We take you to the events that have shaped the sports world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes, you become a fan in the stands as we take you back in time to examine memorable victories and agonising defeats from all over the world. You'll hear from people who have achieved sporting immortality, or those who were there as incredible sporting moments unfolded.Recent episodes explore the forgotten football Women's World Cup, the plasterer who fought a boxing legend, international football's biggest ever beating and the man who swam the Amazon river. We look at the lives of some of the most famous F1 drivers, tennis players and athletes as well as people who've had ground-breaking impact in their chosen sporting field, including: the most decorated Paralympian, the woman who was the number 1 squash player in the world for nine years, and the first figure skater to wear a hijab. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the tennis player who escaped the Nazis, how a man finally beat a horse in a race, and how the FIFA computer game was created.(Photo: Kwame Nkruman-Acheampong competing in Vancouver 2010. Credit: Al Bello/Getty Images)

This week's guest on the Black Rifle Coffee Podcast is Jason Tabansky: U.S. Army veteran, Paralympian, and Paris 2024 W1 Gold Medalist. Jason sits down with Logan Stark to talk about his journey from near-death spinal injury to standing atop the podium on the world's biggest stage (The Olympics). From adaptive archery and the power of mental resilience to what it's really like in the Paralympic Village, Jason's story is a masterclass in grit, gratitude, and getting after it. You don't want to miss this one. A wild story, a gold medal, and zero excuses.

“Don't wait for perfect timing. Just start.” That's the mindset Ashley Dyce lives by—and it's what's fueled her journey from discovering the Paralympics through a TV commercial to becoming a Team USA Para Powerlifter. Born and raised in Covina, California, Ashley is preparing for LA 2028—her hometown Games. “I've had one competition in the U.S. in eight years. This time, my whole community gets to come cheer me on. That means everything.” Off the platform, Ashley's a certified life coach, entrepreneur, graphic designer —and recently published her first book (details below). “Your girl is busy,” she laughs. In today's conversation, Ashley opens up about the mental, physical, and spiritual hurdles she's faced on her path. From shoulder injuries and missed Games to the power of visualization and daily discipline, she's stayed grounded through it all. “Even if I can't train, I focus on what I can do—eat clean, visualize, rest. She also cites her faith as her rock sharing, “My faith is every day to me. I honestly believe I wouldn't be here without my faith, without believing in God.” She also dives into the misconceptions surrounding adaptive athletes: “Not every disabled person becomes a Paralympian. We train just as hard. We compete at the highest levels.” Her advice? “Whatever your goal is—make the call, apply, eat better. Just take one step forward today.” ---- In our conversation Ashley, mentions her book. You can purchase it on Amazon. It's titled What Can She Do? ----- — Flame Bearers is a multimedia movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video, and live events and have worked with over 270 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► / @flamebearers Follow us: Instagram - / flamebearers Facebook - / flamebearerspodcast LinkedIn - / flame-bearers TikTok - / flame_bearers X - / flame_bearers Out Website - https://flamebearers.com/

In this episode of the Cultural Intelligence series, Julia speaks with Francesca Cavallo, an author and co-creator of Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls to explore what it truly means to lead in a world where boys and girls are raised on radically different emotional blueprints. From childhood the stories we're told, girls are invited to understand emotions, their own and others'. Boys, on the other hand, are often cast in roles of action and control, with little space given to their emotional lives. This absence, Francesca felt in her own personal sphere and further states that it comes with consequences. When boys grow up into men, many bring into workplaces and relationships a deeply ingrained sense that masculinity must be earned and it can easily be lost. What happens, then, when a woman is leading men raised on this narrow model of masculinity? Francesca brings sharp insight and practical wisdom to this question. She shares how women can navigate moments of resistance, projection, or even emotional overwhelm in male-dominated teams without surrendering authority or compassion. She also challenges the common understanding of misogyny, reframing it not as hatred of women, but as hatred of the feminine qualities men have been taught to reject in themselves. “You don't need to dominate to lead men. But you do need to remember you're in charge,” said Francesca. Listen to this conversation to gain a new lens on cultural intelligence: one that includes gendered storytelling, emotional safety, and the quiet, often invisible pressures shaping how men show up and how women can lead them with clarity, empathy, and strength. About the Speaker: Francesca Cavallo is the co-author of the New York Times bestselling Good Night Stories for Rebel Girls series, which sold over 8 million copies worldwide and was translated into 49 languages. In 2019, she founded Undercats to radically boost diversity in children's media. A year later, she released Doctor Li and the Crown-wearing Virus (translated into 38 languages) to fight Anti-Asian racism. In 2022, she launched Paralympians!, celebrating extraordinary Paralympic champions. A sought-after public speaker, Cavallo champions women's and minorities' rights at conferences around the globe. Her newest project is about masculinity, and it's called Boys of the Future.

Paralympian, and unapologetic voice for change—Al Viney joins ListenABLE hosts Dylan Alcott and Angus O'Loughlin for a bold conversation about disability, elite sport/rowing, and the systems that still need fixing. "Differentiating between an injury was bad and my disability is not bad". Al breaks down what really happens after a life-changing injury, from navigating inaccessible medical language to challenging the rules of Paralympic classification. She shares the highs and hard truths of competing on the world stage, and why the separation between the Paralympics and Olympics still needs to be discussed. This episode cuts through the fluff—touching on adaptive tech, sport governance, the realities of drunk driving, and what meaningful inclusion actually looks like in healthcare and high performance sport. Whether you're in the disability space or just catching up, this one’s essential listening. Want to support Al? Check our the links below! Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/al.viney/ Mazenod Panthers All Ability Football Club Watch the Full Episode with Captions Here: https://youtu.be/56OY2SgJ4AcGrab our first merch release at our website Session in Progress.https://fromyourpocket.com.au/work/listenable/merch Recorded, edited and produced by Angus' Podcast Company: www.sessioninprogress.com.auSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In 1980, Rosie Ruiz was crowned the female winner of the Boston Marathon.But the Cuban runner was not known in marathon circles and her victory instantly raised eyebrows.Men's champion Bill Rodgers was there when Rosie was crowned at the finish line with laurel leaves."I became suspicious of Rosie pretty quickly," he said. "A really fit, strong, marathoner, woman is pretty tough. Rosie was not that fit looking. It's just as simple as that."Bill tells Vicky Farncombe about the subsequent investigation and how Rosie's story, in an odd way, changed marathons for the better.Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive and testimony. Sporting Witness is for those fascinated by sporting history. We take you to the events that have shaped the sports world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes, you become a fan in the stands as we take you back in time to examine memorable victories and agonising defeats from all over the world. You'll hear from people who have achieved sporting immortality, or those who were there as incredible sporting moments unfolded.Recent episodes explore the forgotten football Women's World Cup, the plasterer who fought a boxing legend, international football's biggest ever beating and the man who swam the Amazon river. We look at the lives of some of the most famous F1 drivers, tennis players and athletes as well as people who've had ground-breaking impact in their chosen sporting field, including: the most decorated Paralympian, the woman who was the number 1 squash player in the world for nine years, and the first figure skater to wear a hijab. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the tennis player who escaped the Nazis, how a man finally beat a horse in a race, and how the FIFA computer game was created.(Photo: Rosie Ruiz being crowned at the Boston Marathon. Credit: Getty Images)

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    

“They call me the Queen of Blades because I've won medals on three different blades.” Kimberly Alkemade isn't just fast—she's transformative. From surviving a traumatic bus accident in France to standing on top of the podium in the same country decades later, Kimberly has rewritten her story of loss into one of power, healing, and purpose. “The sky turned orange,” she recalls of her golden moment at the 2024 World Para Athletics Championships in Paris. “That's the moment I'll always remember. It felt like Mama was there." According to Kimberly, winning in France, where she lost her Mother and leg years earlier, was the "best therapy possible" In this episode of Flame Bearers: UNEDITED, Kimberly shares how she went from seeking basic information at a Paralympic talent day in 2017 to becoming a world record-holding sprinter (twice over) and Paralympic medalist. That said, her journey isn't just about her speed on the track; it's about access, resilience, and advocacy. “Insurance doesn't provide a sports prosthetic,” she explains, highlighting one of the biggest barriers facing para athletes. “You need to start crowdfunding or go to a foundation. That's a worldwide problem.” Now stepping away from elite competition, Kimberly is channeling her energy into her new social enterprise, Moving for Growth, aimed at making performance sports more accessible for people with disabilities. “We're building a new infrastructure so that athletes can chase their dreams—just like I did.” Her message? “Don't be afraid to ask for help. You're not alone.” From bronze to gold, from heartbreak to healing, Kimberly's journey reminds us what it means to rise—on any blade. ---- Flame Bearers is a media production company, celebrating exceptional women athletes. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 270 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► /@flamebearers Follow us - Instagram - /flamebearers Facebook - /flamebearerspodcast LinkedIn - /flame-bearers TikTok - /flame_bearers X - /flame_bearers Our Website - https://flamebearers.com/ If you like the content, subscribe to our channel!

The story of how the legendary surfer, Garrett McNamara, pioneered riding the colossal 100ft waves at Nazaré on the Portuguese coast. At Nazaré in 2011 he broke the world record for the biggest wave ever surfed at the time, officially judged to be 78ft (23.8m). Nazaré has since become a centre of big wave surfing. Garrett McNamara spoke to Alex Last in 2020 about how he first came to surf at Nazaré and why he risks his life to ride giant waves. Eye-witness accounts brought to life by archive and testimony. Sporting Witness is for those fascinated by sporting history. We take you to the events that have shaped the sports world through the eyes of the people who were there. For nine minutes, you become a fan in the stands as we take you back in time to examine memorable victories and agonising defeats from all over the world. You'll hear from people who have achieved sporting immortality, or those who were there as incredible sporting moments unfolded.Recent episodes explore the forgotten football Women's World Cup, the plasterer who fought a boxing legend, international football's biggest ever beating and the man who swam the Amazon river. We look at the lives of some of the most famous F1 drivers, tennis players and athletes as well as people who've had ground-breaking impact in their chosen sporting field, including: the most decorated Paralympian, the woman who was the number 1 squash player in the world for nine years, and the first figure skater to wear a hijab. You can learn all about fascinating and surprising stories, such as the tennis player who escaped the Nazis, how a man finally beat a horse in a race, and how the FIFA computer game was created.(Photo: Garrett McNamara riding his record breaking wave at Nazaré in November 2011 - recognised at the 2012 WSL Big Wave Awards (Credit:WSL/Ribiero)

Jeff Glasbrenner is a three-time Paralympian, two-time wheelchair basketball world champion, 25-time Ironman finisher, and the first American amputee to summit Mount Everest. And yet, beyond the titles and the records, Jeff is a man who's said yes to life again and again, even when the odds were stacked against him. Today, Jeff shares what it really means to overcome adversity, achieve the impossible, and say yes to big, mighty goals. He opens up about the farm accident that took his leg at age eight, the lessons from his father, the gift of finding purpose through sport, and resilience he's learned from his daughter Grace in the face of her own medical challenges. From breaking sports records to skiing to the South Pole, Jeff's story is packed with powerful lessons... and a whole lot of heart. My friends, if you've ever felt held back by your circumstances and seek to find significance in the struggle, this conversation is for you. Jeff reminds us that we each have our own Everest, and with enough courage, community, and belief, we're capable of climbing it.

“Why am I doing this? Who am I doing this for?” Olympic swimmer Kayla Sanchez asks the question that every elite athlete eventually faces—and answers it with heart. After winning medals for Team Canada at Tokyo 2020, Kayla made the bold move to represent the Philippines, honoring her roots and deepening her connection to family, identity, and purpose. For Kayla, swimming for the Philippines isn't just a career decision—it's a personal one. “Both my parents are Filipino,” she shares. “They immigrated to Canada when I was three, but I was nurtured pretty Filipino.” Whether she's watching Manny Pacquiao fights, gathering for big family meals, or breaking Filipino national records, Kayla is fueled by her community's pride. “It meant so much to my family. Even though I was raised in Canada, I've always felt close to my Filipino side—and now I get to represent that on the world stage.” Now a student-athlete at the University of British Columbia, Kayla reflects on navigating intense pressure, burnout, and the emotional weight of change. “I think it taught me to be more independent. It taught me to vouch for myself.” She's found new joy in swimming, racing alongside her varsity teammates while still gunning for LA 2028. Her advice? “Trust your gut. Vouch for yourself. And I'm cheering for you.” Flame Bearers is a multi media movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 270 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► /@flamebearers Follow us – Instagram - /flamebearers Facebook - /flamebearerspodcast LinkedIn - /flame-bearers TikTok - /flame_bearers X - /flame_bearers Our Website– https://flamebearers.com/

“  I woke up in the hospital and told everybody that this isn't gonna define me. I'm going to be playing lacrosse again. But there was always that what-if in the back of my head; I didn't really know if it would be possible. Having amputees sit across from me and hearing everything that they've been through … they were telling me that I'd be able to live an active lifestyle. I would be able to do whatever I wanted to with my life. And if I really wanted to, that I would be able to play lacrosse again.”   Noelle Lambert was a collegiate lacrosse player at UMass Lowell when she had a moped accident that changed everything. Her first thoughts, as she began to wrap her head around what happened, were of whether she'd have to give up sports—which, up until this point, her life had revolved around. Her family and team rallied around her, and she had special visitors in the hospital: Survivors of the 2013 Boston Marathon bombings, who'd lost limbs and gone on to live active, full lives. Their example encouraged her, and though it took hard work, expensive equipment, and an emotional breakdown she talks about in this episode, Noelle would eventually return to playing lacrosse at the Division 1 level. After graduation, she transitioned to para track and field, swiftly breaking records and earning trips to the Paralympics in Tokyo and Paris. She's also dabbled in snowboarding, been a contestant on Survivor, and has started her own non-profit, the Born to Run Foundation, which provides active prosthetics to others. She's had plenty of self-doubt along the way, as she shares, but she's learned to turn it into fuel for each new adventure.   Resources/links: Noelle's website, Instagram, and TikTok  The Injured Athletes Club Facebook support group   A huge thank you to LEVER Movement, the exclusive sponsor of season 8 of The Injured Athletes Club podcast! The LEVER system is an innovative way to reduce your body weight, and the impact on your joints, while exercising on a treadmill. Use the code “TIAC20” to get 20% off your purchase.    You can subscribe to The Injured Athletes Club on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, Audible, Amazon Music, or wherever you get your podcasts, and if you like what you hear, please leave us a rating or a review in Apple podcasts. That helps other injured athletes find the show.   To access more resources for injured athletes: Buy Rebound: Train Your Mind to Bounce Back Stronger from Sports Injuries —now available as an audiobook! Buy Injured Athletes Club merchandise, including hoodies, stickers, patches, journals, mugs, hats, and gift cards Access webinar videos, mental rehab e-courses, and more great resources for injured athletes while supporting our work Join The Injured Athletes Club mailing list, for news and updates Join The Injured Athletes Club Facebook group, for support and camaraderie Like The Injured Athletes Club Podcast Facebook page, for the latest episodes Email us at hello@injuredathletesclub.com with questions, guest suggestions, or other feedback   DISCLAIMER: This content is for educational & informational use only and & does not constitute medical advice. Do not disregard, avoid or delay obtaining medical or health related advice from your health-care professional because of something you may have heard in an episode of this podcast. You should not rely on this information as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult with a qualified medical professional for proper evaluation & treatment. Guests who speak on this podcast express their own opinions, experiences, and conclusions, and The Injured Athletes Club podcast hosts nor any company providing financial support endorses or opposes any particular treatment option discussed in the episodes of this podcast and are not responsible for any actions or inactions of listeners based on the information presented. The use of any information provided is solely at your own risk.

“I would tell my younger self: don't let people tell you your worth…you're the only one in your body—you know best.” Angélina Lanza is a 2x European champion, World Championship medalist, and 3x Paralympic finalist in track and field for France. In today's conversation, Angélina talks about the highs and lows of her athletic career, including ongoing injuries, losing her mother just before the Tokyo Games, and the everyday challenges of being a woman in para sport. “I had an injury nearly every year. Every time I had to ask, ‘What's the lesson this time?'” She shares how sport helped her navigate personal grief: “I put all my energy—and my anger and sadness—into training. I didn't have another choice.” Angélina also speaks honestly about gender inequities in sport, especially around appearance, pay, and visibility. “When you're at the start line, you shouldn't be worried about your outfit or what people might see on camera.” She also critiques unequal treatment in prize money and gear: “Men would get prize money; women would get cute gifts.” We also discuss the confidence she gained through para athletics: “I used to hate my body. I didn't understand why I had muscles. Now I see my body as the tool that helps me perform.” Her message to listeners? “Think about your goals. What's stopping you? Just start.” Photo provided by Angélina -------- Flame Bearers is a multi media movement, illuminating the unsung stories of elite women athletes from around the world. We tell stories via podcast, video and live events and have worked with over 270 Olympians and Paralympians from 55 countries and counting. For more videos about elite women athletes, subscribe to our YouTube channel ► / @flamebearers Follow us - Instagram - / flamebearers Facebook - / flamebearerspodcast Linkedin - / flame-bearers Tiktok - / flame_bearers X - / flame_bearers Out Website - https://flamebearers.com/ Leave a comment and tell us what you liked in the video. If you like the content, do subscribe to our channel!

This episode originally aired on September 10, 2024. As the Paralympics come to a close, Ricki speaks with snowboarder and Paralympian Amy Purdy, who at age 19 was placed on life support and underwent a double amputation after getting diagnosed with meningococcal meningitis. Amy tells her story and explains to Ricki how she was able to remain positive and grateful through terrible prognoses, new prosthetics, and competition at the highest level. They also bond over their shared experience performing with Derek Hough on Dancing with the Stars! Follow Ricki Lake @rickilake on Instagram. And stay up to date with us @LemonadaMedia on X, Facebook, and Instagram. For a list of current sponsors and discount codes for this and every other Lemonada show, go to lemonadamedia.com/sponsors. Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Jamie Mittelman says she is the luckiest person in the world. She founded Flame Bearers to champion the stories of women Olympians and Paralympians and now she gives voice to female athletes across the globe. Did you know women today receive only 15% of sports media coverage? Jamie is not only changing that, she is challenging the way female athletes are addressed and portrayed in the media, which tends to focus on things like appearance and marital status. This episode is important to hear, for you, and for your daughter. Ask yourself: Have you heard of the best female athletes in the world? If not, let's change that right now. Because Jamie believes if you can see it, you can be it. And we can't agree more.(00:03:03) Jamie Mittelman, Founder of the Flame Bearers explains the importance of telling the stories of women Olympians and Paralympians.(00:07:52) Jamie's personal connection to sports and why it led her down this path.(00:11:16) Jamie explains the difference between an Olympian and a Paralympian. (00:12:35) Some of Jamie's favorite Flame Bearer stories.(00:19:20) The difficulty of being a female athlete in a less developed nation.(00:21:48) Unifying forces between female athletes across the globe that bind them, despite language differences and cultural norms. (00:26:09) A story that broke Jamie's heart and had a significant impact on her as a person.(00:30:05) Similarities among female athletes in the way that they are being misportrayed in the media.(00:37:55) The most eye-opening conversations Jamie has had surrounding new sports.(00:40:25) A focus on the para athletes and the disabilities they compete with.(00:41:57) How these elite athletes support themselves financially. (00:49:08) Where to find Jamie and the Flame Bearers.flamebearers.comjamie@flamebearers.comSIGN UP FOR MILES IN MARCH:https://www.constantlyvariedgear.com/pages/miles-in-marchMILES IN MARCH SIGN UPWant to leave the TTSL Podcast a voicemail? We love your questions and adore hearing from you. https://www.speakpipe.com/TheThickThighsSaveLivesPodcast⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The CVG Nation app, for ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠iPhone⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The CVG Nation app, for Android⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Fitness FB Group⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠.⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Thick Thighs Save Lives Workout Programs⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Constantly Varied Gear's ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Workout Leggings⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠The 2025 CVG Movement Calendar