Keep the Flame Alive

What's it like to pioneer a sporting tradition in your country? Irish skeleton racer Brendan Doyle joins us to talk about his efforts as a solo athlete (Ireland currently has no funding for winter athletes) to qualify for Milan-Cortina 2026 and become an Olympian. Follow Brendan on Insta and X, and check out his website. Brendan has also founded BuildThroughSport, a non-profit that aims to highlight the character-building aspects of sport, show how taking up sport can build positive attributes that can contribute to success in all aspects of life, fund sports organizations and athletes so more people can participate in sport. In our Seoul 1988 history moment, Alison looks Ireland's participation at these Olympics, including what happened in the boxing ring. In news from TKFLASTAN, we've got the rest of the results from the Pan American Games, including an impressive medal haul and an Olympic qualifier! In Paris 2024 hospitality house news, tickets are now on sale for Lotto Belgium House and Team GB House (open to the public for the first time!). In Milan-Cortina 2026 news, the sliding track situation has truly turned into a novella (it's been so long since we've had one!)--and the IOC has some words for the Organizing Committee on what they should do. Don't forget that our Kickstarter is live--help us get to Paris to give you the coverage of Paris 2024 that you deserve! For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Brendan Doyle. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

Cricket is one of the sports that made it onto the program for LA 2028. It's one of the world's most popular sports....except in the US. We've decided to give ourselves a five-year learning curve to understand how the sport works, and to kick off that learning, Andrew Nixon, writer at Cricket Europe, joins us to explain the sport and its colorful, colonial history. Check out Andrew's piece on cricket's Olympic inclusion, and follow him on Twitter / X and Blue Sky: @andrewnixon.bsky.social. In our Seoul 1988 history moment, Jill has the story of the men's super heavyweight division in Greco-Roman wrestling, which had an Olympic first--and was the start of an Olympic legend. In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we have news from: Shooter Tim Sherry Race walker Evan Dunfee Commentator Rob Snoek Curler John Shuster Author Andrew Maraniss -- if you have connections to the first Special Olympics at Chicago in 1968, contact him on Twitter / X. You can also contact him through his website. Para shooter McKenna Geer -- find her family's GoFundMe page here. We also have news from Paris 2024, including: More details about those free Opening Ceremonies tickets along the Seine Protests in Tahiti Student housing issues New flights to Paris from Perth Don't forget to support our Kickstarter that will pay for costs associated with our Paris 2024 coverage. For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Andrew Nixon. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

This week we're delighted to have Olympic rower and podcaster Kristi Wagner on the show. Kristi competes in double sculls, finishing 5th at the Tokyo Olympics with Gevvie Stone. She now rows with Sophia Vitas and they won the world championships this year. We talked with Kristi about rowing, changing partners, and her new role as host of the podcast The Other 3 Years. Follow Kristi on Insta and be sure to subscribe to her podcast--it's an excellent listen, and you'll learn so much about what elite athletes go through in the years leading up to the Games. We have a Kickstarter to help us raise money for our work in covering the 2024 Olympics and Paralympics from Paris. Please support our efforts here. In our history moment, Alison looks at the rowing competition at Seoul 1988 and what spurred Australia to invest in its women's rowing team. In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we have news from: Taekwondo athlete Madelynn Gorman-Shore Shooter Tim Sherry Karate-ka Tom Scott Archery official Hannah Brown The dulcet tones of Jason Bryant Pole vaulter Katie Moon - vote for her in USA Track & Field's awards! Plus we have news from 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! Photo courtesy of Kristi Wagner. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

The Paris 2024 Olympics will be notable for many reasons, but the International Olympic Committee wants to make sure you know that for the first time in Olympic history, the Games will have gender parity. But what does that really mean? We talk with Dr. Michele K. Donnelly, assistant professor of sport management at Brock University in Ontario, Canada to get to the heart of the matter. Find out more about Dr. Donnelly's research here. In our Seoul 1988 history moment, Jill looks at the modern pentathlon competition--and how vastly different it was then compared to what we'll see in Paris next year. In our Team Keep the Flame Alive Update, we travel to TKFLASTAN to hear from: Wheelchair rugby player Chuck Aoki Beach volleyball players Betsi Flint and Kelly Cheng Nordic combined athlete Annika Malacinski Commentator Olly Hogben -- catch him during the streams of the PanAm Games! Curler John Shuster We also have absolutely (not) shocking news about the sliding venue for Milan-Cortina 2026, the official list of new sports for LA 2028, and news from the International Olympic Committee's Session in Mumbai. For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Dr. Michele K. Donnelly. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We welcome back Phil Andrews to the podcast this week to talk about his new(ish) role as CEO of USA Fencing, how governing this sport is different from his last role at USA Weightlifting, how he's dealt with the Alen Hazdic situation, how to get more women and para athletes involved with the sport, and what he's looking forward to in Paris. Follow Phil on Insta and LinkedIn! In our history moment, Alison looks at the fencing competition at Seoul 1988. In our visit to TKFLASTAN to see what's up with Team Keep the Flame Alive, we have news from: · Paddler Luuka Jones · Beach volleyball players Betsi Flint and Kelly Cheng · Wheelchair fencer Ellen Geddes · Archivist Teri Hedgpeth · Filmmaker John MacLeod · Plus, the TKFLASTANIs representing Team USA at the Pan American Games later this month—streaming coverage will be at panamsportchannel.org. Also, there's Paralympic news from Paris 2024, and LA 2028 has announced the five sports it would like to add to the Olympics in 2028. We've got the lowdown, including the heated discussions and negotiations that apparently went on behind the scenes! For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Phil Andrews/USA Fencing. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We're headed to the beach this week to talk with pro beach volleyball player and Olympic hopeful Betsi Flint. We talk with Betsi about the dynamics of partnerships in the sport--she currently partners with Julia Scoles--and some of the little details to look for when you're watching. Betsi is also married and has a daughter, so we get into the dynamics of balancing training and competing with parenthood. Follow Betsi on Instagram and learn more about her at her website. She's also playing in the Beach World Championships this week — follow along here! In our Seoul 1988 history moment, we have another Olympic first–it's the debut of the free condoms! This is a popular story every Games (sex sells, you know), but there's a health reason for why Seoul made them freely available for all. In our TKFLASTAN update, we have news from: Shooter Tim Sherry Former fencer Olya Abasolo Ovtchinnikova Beach volleyball player Kelly Cheng Lots of news from Paris 2024, including a lot of civic projects — on the Seine, on the Champs-Élysées, and perhaps with the bedbugs. Also, the International Paralympic Committee's membership has voted to allow individual athletes from Russia and Belarus to compete. It's a complicated story, and we'll break it down. And you can help Team New Zealand get to the Paris 2024 Paralympics through their One Team to Paris program. Finally, more Athens 2004 legacy issues in the news….and this time it's not so good. For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Unrivaled Group. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

Note: This episode does contain discussion of abuse. While having great athletic skills is key to being an Olympian, mindset also plays a major part in being able to compete with the best of the best. In this episode, we talk with Olympian Erin Aldrich-Shean about the journey she's taken from elite athlete to becoming a coach and consultant to help others attain an Olympic mindset. We talked with Erin about her athletic career--part of which involves an abusive relationship with a coach--her time at the Olympics, and how she now helps people achieve their goals. If you'd like to learn more about Erin, check out her website, and follow her on Insta, Facebook, and TikTok. In our Seoul 1988 history moment, Alison looks at the men's volleyball competition, with some upsets on the podium. In our weekly visit to TKFLASTAN, we hear from: Paddler Luuka Jones Para archer (and drag racer) Matt Stutzman Race walker Evan Dunfee Artistic swimmer Jacqueline Simoneau Ski historian Tom Kelly Speed skater Erin Jackson Commentator Olly Hogben Luger Shiva Keshavan In Paris 2024 news, more hospitality packages are up for grabs, and there's a slew of not-so-great headlines to discuss. Plus, we have some venue legacy news from Athens 2004 that's actually good for a change! For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Erin Aldrich-Shean. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

Cue our History Moment music and our Book Club music because Book Club Claire is on hand for a discussion about Richard Moore's The Dirtiest Race in History: Ben Johnson, Carl Lewis and the 1988 Olympic 100m Final (affiliate link). The title pretty much says it all--this was a doping scandal for the ages, and the book uncovers the history of the competitors in this race and all of the complexities about steroids and doping at the time. If you've read the book, we'd love to hear your thoughts about it! Don't forget to follow Claire on Insta and X (fka Twitter)! In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we have news from: Pole vaulter Katie Moon Race walker Evan Dunfee Paddler Luuka Jones Short track speed skater Ryan Shane Curler John Shuster In our Paris 2024 update, Old El Paso's getting around and Team GB jewelry is a thing. Paris 2024 has released details of Paralympic Day, which will be held on October 8, 2024, as well as details about tickets for the Paralympics, which go on sale October 9. Plus, there's a new sustainability initiative that's very interesting. We also have news from the World Games. Chengdu 2025 has released most of the disciplines that will be contested at the Games. We've got the details! 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 Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We're excited to share with you the second part of our interview with freelance sports journalist and commentator Blythe Lawrence (if you missed part 1, go back to episode 300). Last time we focused on rhythmic gymnastics, and now we're checking out what's up in the world of artistic gymnastics. Follow Blythe on X/Twitter and Insta. She's also been commentating the Invictus Games with fellow TKFLASTANI Olly Hogben! Jill's recent visit to the York Barbell Company's Weightlifting Hall of Fame inspired this episode's Seoul 1988 History Moment, in which she looks at the first gold medal victory for Olympic legend Naim Süleymanoğlu, aka the Pocket Hercules. In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we have news from: Boccia player Alison Levine Speed skater Erin Jackson Sports historian Dr. Victoria Jackson Former biathlete Clare Egan The dulcet tones of Jason Bryant Book Club Claire - check out her tour of Tokyo's National Stadium! In news from Paris 2024, there are concerns about flying taxis, the French diocese has opened a sports chapel, air traffic control is in control for the Games, and we have an update on the corruption investigaion. In news from Milan-Cortina 2026, the mayor of Innsbruck has a proposal, and the short track speed skating minimum age is going up! For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Blythe Lawrence. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown Intern: Annalee Deabel 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

Author Stephen Lane talks with us about his new book Long Run to Glory: The Story of the Greatest Marathon in Olympic History and the Women Who Made it Happen. It's about the development of women's marathon as a sport, how it became included in the Olympics, and the very first Olympic marathon at LA 1984. Stephen's book is a great read, so be sure to check it out. We have it listed on our Bookshop.org storefront (affiliate link) In our Seoul 1988 history moment, Alison goes into "what happened next" for the women's marathon in its second foray as an Olympic event. In our weekly visit to TKFLASTAN, we have news from: Shooter Tim Sherry Boccia player Alison Levine Nordic combined competitor Annika Malacinski Wheelchair fencer Ellen Geddes Beach volleyball player Kelly Cheng Author David Davis In news from Paris 2024, the Paralympics countdown clock is on, and Australian fans can look forward to a local partnership with Old El Paso. Plus, the International Paralympic Committee has released its 2022 annual report, and we have a hot take! For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Stephen Lane. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We're going back to 1994 this week with our latest Movie Club pick: A Promise Kept: The Oksana Baiul Story. This SOBIG made-for-TV biopic had the blessing of Lillehammer 1994 gold medalist of Oksana Baiul and tells the story of her life through her surprise victory amidst the Nancy Kerrigan/Tonya Harding scandal (though if you didn't know that scandal happened, you wouldn't learn anything about it from this movie). Plus, video journalist Sean Colahan stops by post-Paris vacation to tell us about the atmosphere in the city--and what tourist attractions you can skip. News from TKFLASTAN, includes updates from: Hammer thrower DeAnna Price Pole vaulter Katie Moon Race walker Evan Dunfee Para powerlifter Louise Sugden And we have a little bit of news about the Kamila Valieva doping case--with word on when the final hearing will take place. We also have updates from Paris 2024 now that it's official one year to go until the Paralympics. For a transcript of this episode, please visit flamealivepod.com. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We love hearing what the Games used to be like for pioneers of sport, so we're excited to have on Paralympian Lo Nigrosh, who was on the first U.S. women's sitting volleyball team. They competed at Athens 2004 and to many people's surprise, brought home the bronze. Lo tells us what the early days of the team were like and about her time in Athens. Today Lo is a lactation consultant, childbirth educator and birth doula at Quabbin Birth Services, and she's host of the podcast The Milk Making Minutes (look for Alison to be a guest there in the coming weeks). You can follow Lo on Insta, Facebook, and TikTok. In our Seoul history moment, Jill looks at the sitting and standing volleyball competitions at those Paralympics. Here's an interesting video recap of Iran's experience. If you want to learn more about the history of para standing volleyball and how it faded from competition, check out this site. In news from TKFLASTAN, we have updates from: Sailors Stephanie Roble and Maggie Shea Race walker Evan Dunfee Pole vaulter Katie Moon Heptathlete and decathlete Jordan Gray Beach volleyball player Kelly Cheng Para powerlifter Louise Sugden - catch her competition here Announcer Geoff Wightman Commentator Olly Hogben Bobsledder Josh Williamson NGB leader Phil Andrews Paralympian John Register Author Warren Perrin In Paris 2024 news, there have been a number of test events, with swimming in the Seine still being a dubious proposition. We also have an update on organizing the surfing competition in Tahiti (and how much more investment is needed). For a transcript of this episode, please visit http://flamealivepod.com. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Lo Nigrosh *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown Intern: Annalee Deabel 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

On this episode, we look at the world of rhythmic gymnastics with freelance sports journalist and commentator Blythe Lawrence (whose voice you might recognize from many a gymnastics feed). Blythe explains how the sport works and what we can look forward to at Paris 2024. Be sure to follow Blythe on Twitter and Insta! In our Seoul history moment, Alison looks at the men's 100m butterfly race, which has a surprising winner. In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we have news from: Swimmer Felicity Passon Speed skater Erin Jackson - catch her this fall on "Special Forces: World's Toughest Test" Author George Hirthler - find the article we mention here. Several TKFLASTANIs will be competing at World Athletics World Champs, so get ready to cheer on pole vaulter Katie Moon, hammer thrower DeAnna Price, and race walker Evan Dunfee. Plus, we have updates from Paris 2024 and MIlan-Cortina 2026! For a transcript of this episode, please visit our website. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Blythe Lawrence. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown Intern: Annalee Deabel 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

Paris 2024 added a number of hip, urban sports to the program for their Games, including breakdancing. However, if you're an average Games fan and maybe have caught a little bit of breakin' here and there, you may not understand how it works. Not to worry -- American B-girl Sunny Choi is here to explain it all, including what happened to The Worm. Follow Sunny on Instagram and on TikTok! Intern Annalee has got some follow-up from last week's Seoul history moment, including some contributions from Listener Patrick from Chicagoland. Also check out this 2023 BBC interview with the referee of this bout, Keith Walker. Jill has another story from Seoul, the amazing performance of East German swimmer Kristen Otto -- though you may understand why it's so amazing. Want even more Seoul 1988 in your life? Listener Manu put a great story in our Facebook Group. In news from TKFLASTAN, our listeners have been busy -- Listener Patrick from Chicagoland, David, and Superfan Sarah have all gone to some cool events! There's a little news from Paris 2024 in the form of "what story will the media blow up?" Today's entry is "the cleanliness of the Seine." For a transcript of this episode, please visit flamealivepod.com. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo credit: Little Shao. Photos courtesy of Sunny Choi. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown Intern: Annalee Deabel 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

This week we are moving to the fencing piste to learn how wheelchair fencing works. Contributor Ben talks with Paralympian Ellen Geddes about the ins and outs of the sport and how she got into it. Follow Ellen on Insta! For our Seoul 1988 history moment, our intern Annalee Deabel tells of yet another controversy in the boxing ring, this time about South Korean boxer Byeon Jeong-il, whose headbutts rankled the referee, leading to pure chaos--and then sadness--in the ring. In news from TKFLASTAN, we have updates from: Montreal 1976 Author Andrew Maraniss - check out his new book series here. In Paris 2024 news, we have updates on ticket sales, a follow-up on the cardboard beds, some angry booksellers who work along the Seine, and medal predictions from Gracenote. Also, if you need a new watch, Omega's Paris 2024 limited edition looks pretty snazzy. We have news from LA 2028 that couldn't wait a day. Milan-Cortina 2026 landed a sponsor that has Alison bubbling with excitement. Also, the Paralympics will feature a new medal event, and we're inching a tiny bit closer to gender parity. And the World Games has announced the official sports program for Chengdu 2025. We've got the new and returning sports. If you'd like a transcript of this episode, please visit flamealivepod.com Thank you so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Ellen Geddes. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown Intern: Annalee Deabel 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We are officially at the one year to go mark before the Paris 2024 Olympics starts! That means it's time for a visit from our TKFLASTANI travel expert Ken Hanscom, who's got all of the details on what tickets might still be available, the hotel situation, flights, getting around Paris, and the hospitality houses. Follow Ken on Twitter (X) and Insta, and if you're on Facebook, join the Paris 2024 Olympics Planning & Preparation group for more advice! In our Seoul 1988 history moment, Alison gets into the details of Seoul's mascot Hodori. In our weekly journey to TKFLASTAN, we have news from: Para archer Matt Stutzman Shooter Ginny Thrasher Author Andrew Maraniss Boxer Ginny Fuchs, who's in the latest issue of Women's Fight News Former water polo player turned commentator Tony Azevedo Commentators Olly Hogben and Rob Snoek To mark the one year to go announcement, Paris 2024 organizers unveiled the torch and a new celebration space for medallists and fans. In other Paris news, the official Omega countdown clock is out, the cardboard beds are back, and LVMH Group is a sponsor. We've got details on what that all means. Here in the US, Team USA had a One Year to Go celebration and is giving fans the opportunity to win an Ephemeral made to face tattoo -- register here by August 31, 2024. For a transcript of this episode, please visit flamealivepod.com Photo courtesy of Ken Hanscom. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown Intern: Annalee Deabel 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

Are you ready for surface talk?! This week we're joined by Paul Kamphuis, general manager at Polytan Asia Pacific, to talk about hockey turf. Paul tells us how the surface is made, why it's watered, and he's got a job Jill would like to do come Games time. Coincidentally this week was also Hockey Turf Day, so we hoped you celebrated appropriately. If you haven't, watch "The Surface," a really interesting documentary about the evolution of hockey turf. The "Smurf Turf," as it was nicknamed, debuted at the London 2012 Olympics. Paul's got the details on how the iconic blue and pink look came about. Follow Paul on LinkedIn and visit Polytan's and Poligras' websites to learn more! In our Seoul 1988 history moment, Jill looks at the taekwondo competition, one of the many demonstration sports on the Olympic program, and the remarkable men's heavyweight weight class, featuring American Jimmy Kim. In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we have news from: Sailors Stephanie Roble and Maggie Shea Para archer Matt Stutzman Former artistic swimmer Jacqueline Simoneau In Paris 2024 news, the International Olympic Committee says it will not formally invite Russia and Belarus to next year's Games. Surely there are loopholes though. Also, the Organizing Committee's budget is apparently in good shape, and there was a test event of the Opening Ceremonies parade on the Seine. Next year France will host a replay of the 1924 Olympic regatta that will feature boats no longer on the Olympic program. You can find out more information about the May and June 2024 events here. No word on how difficult it will be to get the same results as the original competition. And, surprise, surprise, France wants to host for the 2030 Winter Games. Alison has thoughts about another city competing against Stockholm. For a transcript of this episode, please visit flamealivepod.com Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Paul Kamphuis. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown Intern: Annalee Deabel 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

With just about one year to go until Paris 2024, we've got to start getting our daily show muscles into shape! We're training with you this week as we get deep into our yearlong look at the Seoul 1988 Olympics and Paralympics by watching the Olympics Opening Ceremonies. For screencaps of some of the gems from the Parade of Nations, as well as a transcript, please visit flamealivepod.com. In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we have news from: Pole vaulter Katie Moon Hammer thrower DeAnna Price Beach volleyball player Kelly Cheng Commentator/coach Geoff Wightman Sailors Stephanie Roble and Maggie Shea And TKF-adjacent news on Caster Semenya We've got news on the current status of bid-rigging scandals related to Tokyo 2020. In Paris 2024 news, the cycling road race and time trial routes are out. Team Italy's kit has been revealed (not a bad deal when your kit is made by Armani). Hong Kong won't be holding a 3x3 Olympic qualifier. And you could stay at Pierre de Coubertin's home--it's being Airbnb'd for One Year to Go! Thank you so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Thank you to our ongoing contributors and patrons! This show thrives because of our listeners. Want to give back? Learn more here. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown Intern: Annalee Deabel 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We had Independence Day here in the U.S. this week, so we've put together a series of lightning rounds for your enjoyment. If there's time at the end of our interviews, we ask our guests five questions--and they're pretty similar--in a lightning round format. Because it's us though, it's never so lightning fast. That's what makes them interesting though! That said, we're joined by anti-corruption expert Andy Spalding, para powerlifter Louise Sugden, and commentator Olly Hogben. Here's how to follow them online: Andy: Olympics Compliance Task Force Lousie: Insta and Twitter Olly: Insta, Twitter and website Plus, we've got a big show announcement that you'll want to hear! For a transcript, please visit http://flamealivepod.com Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown Intern: Annalee Deabel 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

So much has been happening in the world of the Olympics that this week we're catching up on all of the news. We start with the continued saga of boxing and the International Boxing Association (IBA) vs. the International Olympic Committee (IOC). We then take a look at the IOC's eSports Week, which was held in Singapore on June 22-25. Will eSports be a bigger part of the IOC's plan to reach youth? We also have an update in the Kamila Valieva situation, including a ballsy exhibit at the US Olympic and Paralympic Museum marking 500 days since the conclusion of the Team Figure Skating event from Beijing 2022. In our Seoul History moment, Alison has a surprisingly happy story resulting from Madagascar's boycott of these Games. Here's a link to a scene from Reply 1988: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jA5oCRQskko In our TKFLASTAN update, we have news from: Author David Maraniss Modern pentathlete Samantha Schutz Race walker Evan Dunfee Para powerlifter Louise Sugden Boccia player Alison Levine We have loads of news from Paris 2024, including: Details about the Torch Relay, which you can see here The decision to not sell alcohol at venues Flying taxi plans The Athletes' Village apartment sale/rental application. You can find out more details about apartment layouts and prices here. The French lottery's Olympic scratch-offs Paris Musées' plan for special exhibits during the Games Simone Biles' comeback Plus and update on the Winter 2030 bidding process, and the IOC's Fair Play Awards, which have a TKFLASTAN connection. For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://flamealivepod.com Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown Intern: Annalee Deabel 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

This week we're going back to the Munich 1972 Olympics and the massacre that happened there. Author Warren Perrin knew David Berger, the Israeli weightlifter, and he recently wrote a book called The Weight of History, the Power of Apology: Remembering Lifter David Berger 50 Years after the Munich Olympics to memorialize his friend and reflect on what it means to receive an apology for a devastating act. Warren is co-founder of the Acadian Heritage & Culture Foundation which celebrates the French culture of Louisiana, and he has authored several books. You can follow him on Facebook. Plus, we have one last Seoul 1988 sailing story, and news from TKFLASTAN, Paris 2024, and Milan-Cortina 2026. Want to hire TKFLASTANI bobsledder AJ Edelman? Check him out on LinkedIn. Watch TKFLASTANI para dressage rider Sydney Collier in Paragold. Follow along with Book Club Claire's adventures on Instagram! (and this one too) For a transcript, please visit flamealivepod.com. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown Intern: Annalee Deabel 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We're excited to have Craig Spence, chief brand and communication officer of the International Paralympic Committee, back on the show with us. In part 2 of his interview, we learn the latest on the situation with Russia and Belarus, and we also learn what keeps Craig up at night (sadly, it might be us at the moment). Craig's a great follow on social! Find him on Twitter, Insta and LinkedIn. WARNING: This episode's Seoul History Moment will likely have you going down the rabbit hole of rhythmic gymnastics. Alison's got the details on the competition, which is the second in Olympic history. We talk about the apparatus that's no longer used at the Games, as well as the fact that competitors did their routines to live music. In our TKFLASTAN Update, we have news from: Shooter Tim Sherry Video journalist Sean Colahan Sailors Stephanie Roble and Maggie Shea Boxer Ginny Fuchs, who's fighting on June 17. You can get the stream on DAZN. Former BMX racer Connor Fields In our Paris 2024 Update, we have news about an exhibition that will take place at the Petite Palais during the Olympics and Paralympics next year. We also have some interesting news on how Channel 4 in the UK intends to produce its Paralympics coverage. Also, news on the Winter 2030 bid front--the number of options aren't looking good for the International Olympic Committee right now. For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://flamealivepod.com Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo credit: International Paralympic Committee *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown Intern: Annalee Deabel 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

Book Club Claire is back to discuss a memoir we've been excited to read: The Hard Parts: A Memoir of Courage and Triumph (affiliate link) by Oksana Masters, a 6x Paralympian who is one of the major faces of Team USA. Will this book live up to our expectations? Don't forget to follow Claire on Twitter! She's a great follow! In our Seoul 1988 History Moment, Jill has part 2 of her sailing stories. This time we're looking at the Finn class, and the sportsmanship of Canadian Lawrence Lemieux. In our TKFLASTAN Update, we have news and results from: Beach volleyball player Kelly Cheng Shooter Tim Sherry Hammer thrower DeAnna Price Pole vaulter Katie Moon Author Andrew Maraniss, who will be speaking at the Baseball Hall of Fame in August Paralympian John Register, who will be hosting a meal with Top Chef contestant and Olympian Dawn Burrell at the US Olympic and Paralympic Museum In Paris 2024 news, Mayor Anne Hidalgo, who is rapidly becoming our favorite politician, announced efforts to reduce plastic waste during the Games. We have more details on the torch relay--including how some departments of France have said non to hosting the event due to the costs involved. Plus, we are learning more about fan zones and the Cultural Olympiad. In LA 2028 news, there's speculation on the potential for moving the canoe slalom events to a different state. And in International Olympic Committee News, could this finally be it for boxing in the Games? For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://flamealivepod.com/?p=9146 Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

Craig Spence, Chief Brand and Communications Officer at International Paralympic Committee, joins us to discuss the IPC's new strategic plan--or at least some of it. Plus, we get into how the IPC is different from the International Olympic Committee, what goes into revamping the classification system and the making of the We the 15 campaign. Follow Craig on Twitter, LinkedIn and Instagram. In our TKFLASTAN Update, we've got news from: Nordic combined athlete Annika Malacinski Wheelchair rugby player Chuck Aoki Wheechair curler Steve Emt Plus, we have news from Paris 2024, including a devastating flood that's hit the site of the surfing competition. For a transcript of this episode, please visit our website. Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Craig Spence. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We're getting ready for summer movie season! Film Buff Fran joins us to talk about "Zero to Hero," the 2021 Hong Kong biopic of So Wa Wai, Hong Kong's first Paralympian to win the gold medal. Our next movie will be "A Promise Kept: The Oksana Baiul Story," which you can watch for free on Crackle and Plex. Will this be a made-for-TV movie that's so bad, it's good? For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-2eg Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

On the whole, women's sports have been downplayed throughout history, and even in ancient times, some societies didn't want women to compete. Was it just because of the "falling uterus" theory? We talk with author Alexandra Allred about her book When Women Stood: The Untold History of Females Who Changed Sports and the World and the audacious women who dared to compete. In our history moment, we look at a women's first. At Seoul 1988, it was the first time that women had their own sailing (or yachting, as it was called back then) event. Jill's got the incredible story of the women's 470 race. In our TKFLASTAN update, we have news from: Para archer Matt Stutzman Sitting volleyball player Lora Webster TKFLASTANIs who will be competing at the Los Angeles Grand Prix on May 26-27, including pole vaulter Katie Moon, hammer thrower DeAnna Price, and Geoff Wightman's son Jake (a TKFLASTANI by proxy). In Paris 2024 news, the second phase of ticket sales is underway--with one million tickets selling in just 48 hours. At least 20 sports sold out within this time (if you thought modern pentathlon would be an easy ticket, think again!). If you're not having luck in the regular sale, a hospitality package might be for you (thank you to TKFLASTANI Ken Hanscom for that tip!). We've also hit the 1000 days to Milan-Cortina 2026, so we check in with the planning for those Games. For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-2e5 Thank you so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Alexandra Allred. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

t's always great when we can take someone off our never-ending list of people we'd love to talk to. It's even better when we manage to do the interview without completely fangirling. This week we talk with wheelchair rugby legend Chuck Aoki. Chuck has been to three Paralympics--London 2012, Rio 2016, and Tokyo 2020. He's racked up hardware at all three, with a bronze and two silvers respectively. Chuck is currently on the Team USA 2023 training squad in preparation for international competition later this year. We talked with Chuck about the finer points of the sport, its specialized wheelchairs, and his Paralympic experiences. Be sure to follow Chuck on social: @chuckaoki on Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. On Twitter, he's @aoki5chuck. In our Seoul 1988 history moment, Alison reminds us that the Games aren't always amazing and inspirational. She's got the story of how organizers leveraged the government's plan to keep "undesireables" off the streets of Seoul. Sadly, this was done with horrifying effects. To learn more, check out this article from The Nation and this one from Associated Press. In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we have news from: Pole vaulter Katie Moon Curler John Shuster Speed skater Erin Jackson Sitting volleyball player Lora Webster - TKFLASTANI Rob Snoek is commentating her tournament this coming weekend! Check out the CBC schedule here. In Paris 2024 news, the single ticket lottery has started, so we're hopeful that everyone gets tickets they want! Also, the Paris 2024 organizers release details about the food that will be served in the Athletes Village. For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-2dA Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Chuck Aoki *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

On this episode of the show we get to take someone off the list! We're so excited to have the opportunity to talk sitting volleyball with five-time Paralympian Lora Webster. With Team USA, she has won a bronze, 2 silvers, and gold in Rio and Tokyo. She is also a mom of 4 and became a big story in Tokyo because she was competing while 5 months pregnant. We talked with Lora about how sitting volleyball works, her long career, her plans for Paris and how the kids help her train. Lora will be competing in the ParaVolley PanAmerica Zonal Championship taking place from May 9 to 13, 2023 in Edmonton, Alberta. Find out more information here. In our Seoul 1988 history moment, Jill talks about the women's Olympic volleyball tournament (Surprise! Women weren't yet playing volleyball in the Paralympics), and the little country that almost toppled a giant. In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we get news from: Boccia player Alison Levine Beach volleyball player Kelly Cheng Sailors Stephanie Roble and Maggie Shea Speed skater Erin Jackson Snowboarder Alex Diebold Para archer Matt Stutzman - check out his cover story in the Spring 2023 issue of Move United! Authors David and Andrew Maraniss - they'll be about the National Sports Media Association Sports Book Festival Team Shuster, who's competeing in the KIOTI Tractor Champions Cup Paris 2024 has announced the triathlon course. If you're looking for a free event to attend, this course will give you ample opportunities to see the competitors! The International Olympic Committee announced that tickets are now on sale for Olympic Esports Week. Finally, the International World Games Association announced the sports program for Chengdu 2025. What's in and what's out? We break it all down for you. For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-2cH Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Lora Webster. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

e're thrilled to have Olly Hogben, Olympic Broadcasting Service commentator, back on the show this week! We talk about his experiences commentating at Rio 2016, Tokyo 2020 and Beijing 2022, and what makes the Olympics so special. Olly's a great follow on social media! Check him out on Twitter and Insta, and you can learn more about him at his website. Since we're talking broadcasting, Alison took a look at NBC's coverage of Seoul 1998 for our history moment. It's pretty horrifying--and Mary Carillo stories aren't even a thing yet. In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we have news from: NGB CEO Phil Andrews The Magnificent Seven - find the soundtrack on Spotify, Apple Music, YouTube Music, Amazon Music, and anywhere else you stream music Sailors Stephanie Roble and Maggie Shea Boccia player Alison Levine Beach volleyball player Kelly Cheng In Paris 2024 news, the Organizing Committee has amassed a giant flotilla for the Opening Ceremony on the Seine River, tickets for phase two of the ticket sale could be hard to come by, we now know when Paralympic tickets will go on sale, and how hard it could be to get an Airbnb. We've got the details! For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-2cu Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Olly Hogben *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

Pole vault is an athletics discipline that we have really had questions about, so we're thrilled that Tokyo 2020 Olympic gold medalist Katie Nageotte--now Katie Moon--could join us to talk about her sport. We talked with Katie about poles (ever wonder how much a pole vault pole costs? Try seven of them), spikes, and what it feels like if a pole snaps while you're mid-vault. Follow Katie on TikTok, Insta and Twitter! We stick with our pole vault theme for our history moment, when Jill looks at the pole vault competition from Seoul 1988. That's men's pole vault, as women didn't start vaulting in the Olympics until 2000. Who was part of this competition? The legendary Sergey Bubka! In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we have news from: Para archer Matt Stutzman Shooter Tim Sherry Beach volleyball player Kelly Cheng USA Fencing CEO Phil Andrews Curler John Shuster Former artistic swimmer Jacqueline Simoneau Russian basketball is out for Paris 2024, as are Aussie athletes after 48 hours. Want to win a bib to the Paris 2024 Marathon Pour Tous? You could win one if you do the Orange Night Run this June! Plus, Alison has an exciting update from Milan-Cortina, and Jill and Book Club Claire went to see The Magnificent Seven. For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-2c8 Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo credit: Getty Images/Team USA, courtesy of Katie Moon *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We love it when a TKFLASTANI comes back to visit--and it's even better when they bring someone along! We're excited to have Paralympian Ness Murby back on the the show. You may remember Ness' first visit, soon after he came out as transmasculine. Two-plus years later, he's fulfilled his dream of being a husband and father--and now he's trying to become the first openly out transgender Paralympian. Ness and his wife Eva join us to talk about their docuseries called "Transcending," which follows their lives as they navigate Ness' transition in their everyday lives and on the field of play. Fun fact: Men's and women's discus are different! We get the inside scoop on what competition is like for both competitor and sports assistant in this division. You can follow Ness on Insta and Twitter and check out his website TougherThan.com. Learn more about the show Transcending on AMI. In our Seoul 1988 history moment, Alison looks at the Dream Team from the men's gymnastics competition. In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we've got news from: Curler John Shuster Sailors Stephanie Roble and Maggie Shea Karate-ka Tom Scott Skeleton racer Shannon Galea Running coach/announcer Geoff Wightman The 1976 US Women's Olympic Basketball Team Historian Dr. Victoria Jackson Diver Laura Wilkinson The dulcet tones of Jason Bryant In news from Paris 2024, we talk about the ongoing cleanup of the Seine (this is an interesting Associated Press article about the situation. Also, new bike lanes will be coming to the city--and you can rent bikes to go from venue to venue! And Team USA's hospitality house will be open to fans at Paris 2024. Ticket information is here. For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-2bJ Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Ness Murby. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We've got spring fever this week, which means it's a great time for a Lightning Round episode! This time we're gymnastics-forward, so put your hair in a scrunchie and get ready for some Olympic-level insight from The Magnificent Seven creators Gordon Leary and Julia Meinwald, gymnastics choreographer Nicole Langevin, and athletic trainer Wayne Lamarre. If you ever wondered what KT tape is good for, this episode is for you! Find out more about Gordon and Julia: Website Instagram Follow Nicole and learn more about her services: Facebook Instagram Podcast: What Makes You Think Follow the podcast on Twitter Precision Choreography Follow Wayne on Twitter. Let us know about your first memory of the Games! We love hearing from you! For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-2bh Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

During Tokyo 2020 coverage, Olly Hogben became one of our favorite OBS commentators, so we're thrilled to have him on this week. Olly talks with us about how he switched careers from teaching to commentating, how to work with a co-commentator, and what being at an event in person does to enhance the viewer experience. Plus, we have big announcement about Paris 2024! Olly's a great follow on social media! Check him out on Twitter and Insta, and you can learn more about him at his website. In our Seoul 1988 history moment, Alison starts looking into the gymnastics competition. Remember when there were compulsory exercises?! Well, the United States ran into issues when a little-known rule got applied to Kelly Garrison-Steves' uneven bars routine. In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we have news from: Beach volleyball player Kelly Cheng Bobsledder Josh Williamson -- are you going to Bobsled Fantasy Camp? Boxer Ginny Fuchs Olympic legend Marnie McBean Curler John Shuster, who's competing at the BKT Tires & OK Tires World Men's Curling Championship Plus, updates from the International Olympic Committee's Executive Board meeting, which includes the Russia/Belarus situation and the boxing situation. For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-2ax Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Olly Hogben. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We're headed to the boccia court this week to learn more about the sport from 2x Paralympian Alison Levine. Alison competes for Team Canada in the BC4 category in both individual and pairs competitions. We talk about how the sport works, plus, a healthy dose of ball talk! Follow Alison on Twitter and Insta, and check out her website. In our history moment this week, Jill looks at the goalball tournaments from Seoul 1988, which includes one team getting expelled from the Games. In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we have updates from: The dulcet tones of Jason Bryant Speed skater Erin Jackson (get well soon!) Figure skating analyst Jackie Wong Para powerlifter Louise Sugden Author Andrew Maraniss — don't forget our Q&A with him on Monday, March 27 at 9pm ET – contact us for the link! In Paris 2024 news, the torch relay plans to have fewer torches, Lotto Belgium House is a go (it's ticketed, so you may want to subscribe to get program updates), and the Paris 2024 volunteer portal is now open for applications. We have details on that process and what to expect. Remember, if you apply, let us know how it went! 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 are thrilled to talk para archery with three-time Paralympian Matt Stutzman. Matt, who is also known as the Armless Archer, won a silver at London 2012, was 4th at Rio and placed 9th at Tokyo. He has also competed and medaled at multiple world championships. We talked with him about how the sport works, what strategies competitors use and the advice Olympian Michael Johnson gave him. Follow Matt on Twitter, Insta and Facebook. And check out his cherry-on-top BOOM in Team USA's 2021 Paralympic commercial. In our Seoul 1988 history moment, Alison looks back at the women's team archery event, another first for women at these Games - plus a country first! In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we hear from: Nordic combined athlete Annika Malacinski - congrats on your 2022/23 season! Race walker Evan Dunfee Wheelchair curler Steve Emt And a reminder that "The Magnificent Seven" starts on March 31 at the Flint Repertory Theatre. We've reached the 500 days to go mark for Paris 2024! The next phase of the ticket lottery is opening up, so sign up here and examine the catalog for ticket prices. Plus, hospitality houses are back, and there could be trouble with housing in Tahiti. We've got the info! For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-29W Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Matt Stutzman. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

It's Women's History Month, so it's only appropriate that our first book club selection of 2023 celebrates female athletes. Book Club Claire is back to discuss Inaugural Ballers: The True Story of the First US Women's Olympic Basketball Team by Andrew Maraniss. We're having a free virtual Q&A with Andrew on Monday, March 27 at 9pm US Eastern Time. If you'd like to join us, please email [email protected] to RSVP. In our history moment, Jill looks at a women's first at Seoul 1988: Track Cycling. This story also contains an Olympic first--and only--statistic. We've got news from our TKFLASTAN. Hear what's up with: Shooter Kim Rhode Curler John Shuster Nordic combined athlete Annika Malacinski Hockey player Brianna Decker Former biathlete Clare Egan, who's speaking at the Your Future Olympian virtual summit. Paddler Luuka Jones Listener David In Paris 2024 news, we're talking about ticket lotteries, Notre Dame reconstruction, and the 500 Days Out celebration (if you're in Ireland, here's where you can register for it) In Milan-Cortina 2026 news, Alison's got an announcement, and we potentially have a winner in the mascot selection! The International Olympic Committee has announced its esport series - learn more about the games and qualifiers here. The International Paralympic Committee has released a new strategic plan to take the organization through 2026. We break down some of the exciting goals they have. For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-29z Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

It's two interviews for the price of one! On this episode, middle-distance running coach and in-stadium announcer Geoff Wightman joins us to talk about how to run a 1500m, as well as what it's like to keep a crowd entertained during an athletics competition. You can follow him on Insta and Twitter. Geoff also has a series of e-books on Amazon that tell about his life and stories in sport. In our Seoul 1988 history moment, Alison keeps the "all in the family" theme going, with a look at the Olympians whose parents and/or children were part of these Games. In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we get updates from: Nordic combined athlete Annika Malacinski Shooters Tim Sherry and Ginny Thrasher Erin Jackson - get her bobblehead here Ness Murby - watch his show "Ness Murby: Transcending" here All of the listeners who got into the Paris 2024 ticket lottery Curler John Shuster Plus, the Court of Arbitration for Sport has agreed to take on the Kamila Valieva appeal. For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-298 Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photos courtesy of Geoff Wightman. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We love learning about the people behind the scenes who help expand the visibility of the Paralympics. On this episode we're talking with Alexis Schaefer, the former Commercial and Marketing Director of the International Paralympic Committee (IPC). Alexis talks with us about marketing the Paralympics, attracting major sponsors, and broadcasting the Games. More importantly, we've got feed beefs explained! You can follow Alexis on LinkedIn and Twitter. In our history moment, Jill looks at the Paralympic Games of Seoul, which are considered to be the first Games of the Paralympic modern era. We have tons of news from our TKFLASTANIS, including updates from: Beach volleyball player Kelly Cheng Shooters Kim Rhode, Tim Sherry and Ginny Thrasher Nordic combined competitor Annika Malacinski Sailors Stephanie Roble and Maggie Shea Curler John Shuster Race walker Evan Dunfee Paddler Luuka Jones Hammer thrower DeAnna Price Speed skater Erin Jackson Retired shot putter Michelle Carter Retired artistic swimmer Jacqueline Simoneau Retired cross-country skier Kikkan Randall Book Club Claire We also have an update on the Kamila Valieva doping situation -- we're getting closer to a final resolution! For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-28L Thank you so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Alexis Schaefer *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

It's always fun talking with people about the Olympics and Paralympics. In this episode, we bring one of those conversations to you! We sit down with Ben Waterworth and Colin Hilding, two of the three hosts of Off the Podium, an Olympics podcast from an Australian and Canadian perspective. Learn about the moments that sucked us into the excitement of the Olympics and find out about some key Olympians and sports from Australia and Canada. You'll also find out which Olympian doesn't really make for a good costume in Australia. Find Off the Podium on your favorite podcast app (like Apple or Spotify). They're on social at Insta and Twitter! For a transcript of this episode and to see some of the competitions we reference, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-28z 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 Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We joke about people peddling steaks and watches as influence, but megasporting events do have some very public issues with corruption. Could the International Olympic Committee create reform when it comes to anti-corruption and human rights? Law professor Andy Spalding, head of the independent group Olympics Compliance Task Force joins us to talk about the work his group is doing to develop a new approach to these issues for the Olympics and the World Cup. You might be shocked to hear what Qatar did in these areas - time will tell on whether its efforts will be a part of its legacy. You can find out more about Andy and his work at his University of Richmond faculty page and the Olympics Compliance Task Force site. Speaking of corruption, Alison's got the story of what's likely the most corrupt boxing match in Olympic history. That's in our Seoul 1988 moment. In news from TKFLASTAN, we hear from: Curler John Shuster Race walker Evan Dunfee Listener Brianna Lots of news from Paris 2024! Boycott talk continues....but the IOC reminds countries that boycotts are a violation of the Olympic Charter. Reminder from us: Russia's invasion was a violation of the Olympic Truce. But better news from Paris - the announcement of pictograms and the first stop on the torch relay! Not to be outdone, Milan-Cortina 2026 has announced the finalists in its mascot competition. Vote here. And! Could we see a 2030 Winter Games in Stockholm? TPTB are looking into it. For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-28a Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo credit: University of Richmond *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

Film Buff Fran is back to discuss "Jappeloup" -- how do the French do with sports biopics? In our Seoul 1988 history moment, we stay in the world of equestrian. Jill looks at the dressage competition and the emergence of Nicole Uphoff and her horse Rembrandt. We travel to TKFLASTAN to get some news from: Shooter Tim Sherry Wheelchair curler Steve Emt Short track speed skater Ryan Shane Beach volleyball player Kelly Cheng Our listeners! Paris 2024's Paralympic schedule is now live. The Paralympic sports program for LA 2028 has been announced, with the option to add two more sports. What are they? We've got the news! For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-27S Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

This week we've got part two of our conversation with Dick Pound, the longest-serving member of the International Olympic Committee. Dick worked on the formation of the World Anti-Doping Agency, so we start today's conversation with one of our favorite topics, doping. Then we get into Dick's work with broadcast rights negotiation, as well as the Winter 2030 bid and legacy. In our Seoul history moment, Alison takes a look at the official song "Hand in Hand." Watch the song being performed at the Opening Ceremonies here: https://youtube.com/watch?v=OlxqzcOWMvk&si=EnSIkaIECMiOmarE TKFLASTAN is busy this week! We have updates from past guests: Skeleton racer Shannon Galea Race walker Evan Dunfee Modern pentathlete Jo Muir Nordic combined athlete Annika Malacinski Karate-ka Tom Scott Beach volleyball player Kelly Cheng Figure skater Nate Bartholomay In our news from upcoming Games, both Paris 2024 and Milan-Cortina 2026 are feeling budgetary pressures. Also, you have just a few days to register for the first Paris 2024 ticket lottery (though if you don't make this one, there will be other opportunities to get tickets)! For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-27x Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo: IOC Media *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We are so excited to have Dick Pound on today's episode. Dick is one of the most influential people in the Olympic Movement. This is the first part of our interview with Dick, in which we talk about his Olympic experiences and some details about his involvement with the Olympic Movement. We also have an announcement about a SPECIAL EVENT that's coming up in March! In our look at Seoul, Jill delves into life at the Olympic Village. What was the salad bar called? What did you get if your birthday fell during the Games? What was that final event all about? How much do we miss the sexism of the 1980s? In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we have news from: Shooter Kim Rhode Sled hockey player-turned commentator Taylor Lipsett. Hear him commentate a sled hockey exhibition on January 23. We have an "update" on the Kamila Valieva Beijing 2022 doping situation, which is exactly what we expected. Now on to a World Anti-Doping Agency appeal. In news from Paris 2024, hospitality packages have gone on sale. These include guaranteed tickets and a number of other experiences. There's also some concern about climate change affecting an Athletes' Village that is planned to have no air conditioning. We also have broadcast rights updates for future Games for both the Olympics and Paralympics. European and Asian listeners - here's how you'll watch them! For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-278 Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo: IOC Media *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

The International Olympic Committee is a juggernaut that in 2021 brought in $4.2 billion in revenue. But the organization wasn't always that wealthy, and it took a lot of work to create the programs that brought the IOC from the brink of destruction to the global powerhouse it is today. Michael Payne was one of the people who helped the IOC right its course. As the organization's first marketing director, he helped develop the TOP sponsorship program and also managed broadcast rights. After working at the IOC for 16 years, he left in 2004 to start Payne Sports Media Strategies, his own sports and entertainment strategic consulting firm. During the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, he put together a coffee table book of Olympics-related political cartoons called Toon In!, for which he was honored with the Pierre de Coubertin medal for his contributions to Olympism. We talked with Michael about his book and developing the TOP sponsorship program, as well as some interesting planning negotiations during Seoul 1988. Learn more about Michael at his website, and you can find out more about his book here. He's also a great follow on Twitter! In our Seoul 1988 history moment, Alison looks at the infamous cauldron lighting, which led to the demise of several birds. In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we have updates from: Nordic combined competitor Annika Malacinski Short track speed skater Ryan Shane Long track speed skater Erin Jackson Bobsledder Josh Williamson Hurdler Dawn Harper Nelson Super Fan Sarah We also have Games news from Beijing 2022 Paris 2024 Milan-Cortina 2026 Winter Games 2030 For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-26M Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown Newsletter: Sign up at http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348 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

As is our tradition, we're dedicating our first episode of the year to the Games that will be the focus of our history moments in 2023. You have selected Seoul 1988, so we are really excited to dig into these Games. To kick things off, we've got Olympic historian Bill Mallon to share some of the background, big moments, and legacies of these Games. In our check in with Team Keep the Flame Alive, we have updates from TKFLASTANIs: Nordic combined athlete Annika Malacinski Short track speed skater Ryan Shane Long track speed skater Erin Jackson Bobsledder Josh Wiliamson Former biathlete Clare Egan Former fencer Olya Abasolo Ovtchinnikova Beach volleyball player Kelly Cheng Plus, we have news from Paris 2024, Winter 2030 and Brisbane 2032! If you want to apply to volunteer with Team Ireland for Paris 2024, go here: https://olympics.ie/volunteering-opportunity-with-team-ireland-in-paris-2024/ We'd love to hear your favorite moments from Seoul -- let us know what you remember from those Games! For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-26z Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We're closing out the year by giving you a little taste of the bonus audio that our silver medal level and up patrons receive every month. This includes deleted scenes from interviews, post-interview debriefs and--new for 2023--rule changes that will affect how you'll understand the sports on the Paris 2024 Olympic and Paralympic programs. In this episode we explore the rule changes you'll notice in Artistic Gymnastics. Also, TKFLASTANI Shannon Galea tells us all about Maltese food. Want more? Check out our Patreon page or our Support page. For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-26b Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

We've got company over for the holidays! We're celebrating the end of 2022 with John Cushing and Michael Weadock, the lads from Anything But Footy, an Olympics and Paralympics podcast focused on Team GB and the Games. How was London 2012 in the eyes of Americans? Was Atlanta 1996 the worst Games ever? And what does legacy really mean? All this and more as we cross the pond to chat with our fellow Games podcasters. Follow Anything But Footy on Twitter, Insta, YouTube, and Facebook! For a transcript of this show, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-25N 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 Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

Film Buff Fran is back with one of her all-time favorite movies, "The Cutting Edge" starring Moira Kelly and D.B. Sweeney. Can the icy figure skater and the rough-and-tumble former hockey player get past their differences in order to become an Olympic-caliber pairs team? Also on this episode, we have our last Albertville 1992 history moment, in which Jill looks at CBS' highlights videotape. In our visit to TKFLASTAN, we have news from: Short track speed skater Ryan Shane Nordic combined racer Annika Malacinski Speed skater Erin Jackson Swimmer John Naber Curler John Shuster Plus, the International Olympic Committee is looking into a pathway for Russian and Belarussian ahtletes to compete at Paris 2024. Should they be allowed to do so? Special shout out to our patron of the week, Stanley Yang! For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-25u Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

LA 2028 will be here before you know it, so we wanted to learn a bit more about what's going on behind the scenes at the Organizing Committee. Izzy Cerullo, two-time Olympian in rugby sevens and current commercial and consumer insights associate at LA 2028, tells how she landed a gig on the other side of the Olympics and what insights she's looking at. Plus, Jill might have sighed more than Alison during this episode. What's up with that? Follow Izzy on Twitter and Insta! In our Albertville 1992 history moment, Alison takes a look at the amazing closing ceremonies. It's almost time to bid adieu to Albertville 1992! Perhaps the snow globe ladies are ready for us to go. Watch the ceremonies here. In news from TKFLASTAN, we have updates from: Nordic Combined athlete Annika Malacinski Beach volleyball player Kelly Cheng Curler John Shuster Figure skating analyst Jackie Wong Author Roy Tomizawa Gamesmaker and former fencer Olya Abasolo Ovtchinnikova Speed skater Erin Jackson In doping news, the International Testing Agency has finished its reanalysis of London 2012 samples. It's a shame it had to be done, but the truth has hopefully won this battle. Suprising (or not) Milan-Cortina 2026 news: Construction of a new bobsled track's been approved. Cue our sighing. And the International Olympic Committe Executive Board met this week -- we've got updates on the selection for the host city of the 2030 Winter Games, the Russia situation, and the boxing situation. And, North Korea's coming off suspension! Special shout out to our patron of the week: Listener Lorry! For a transcript of this episode, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-253 Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photo courtesy of Izzy Cerullo. *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348

If you love Izzy, this episode is for you! In November Jill had the opportunity to go to Atlanta and was able to get a behind-the-scenes look at the Atlanta 1996 archives at the Atlanta History Center. Collections Manager Erica Hague showed Jill a few of the thousands of things they have in storage and walked her through TKFLASTANI Sarah Dylla's exhibit on the Atlanta 1996 Games. To see photos and videos from this visit, check out our website and/or YouTube Channel. In our Albertville 1992 history moment, Jill looks at the women's biathlon relay, which is a color pukesplosion with an amazing finish. Watch it in all its glory here. In news from TKFLASTAN we have updates from: Pin collector Don Bigsby Table tennis player Milly Tapper Beach volleyball player Kelly Cheng In our Paris 2024 update, registration for the first ticket lottery has started. Join Le Club for better access. Also, more Phrygees will be made in France. You don't say? The International Olympic Committee has announced it will hold an e-sports week, complete with competitions. Maybe we can train up for this one! And the International Paralympic Committee held an Extraordinary General Assembly to vote on whether Russia and Belarus should remain members. SPOILER ALERT: It's not a good ending for Russia and Belarus. Shout out to our patron Dan! Check out his Olympics newsletter here. Want to be our patron? Find out more here. For a transcript, please visit: https://wp.me/pbRtIx-23S Thanks so much for listening, and until next time, keep the flame alive! Photos: Jill Jaracz *** Keep the Flame Alive: The Podcast for Fans of the Olympics and Paralympics with hosts Jill Jaracz & Alison Brown 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 http://flamealivepod.com VM/Text: (208) FLAME-IT / (208) 352-6348