Sportly

In Part Two of our Olympics series, host Kavitha A. Davidson continues exploring how sports are chosen for the Olympic Games. This week, Sportly dives into the intriguing addition of breaking—commonly known as breakdancing—to the Paris 2024 Olympics. She examines the rise of breaking from its roots in the Bronx in the 1970s as a pillar of hip-hop culture to its global spread and eventual acceptance by the International Olympic Committee. Through history and cultural commentary, Kavitha uncovers the cultural and social significance of breaking and addresses the controversies surrounding its inclusion in the Olympics. Does this newfound visibility honor and uplift breaking and hip-hop culture, or does it risk commodifying a deeply expressive art form? ___ Hosts: Kavitha A. Davison | Producers: Saadia Khan & Shei Yu I Content Writers: Michaela Strauther, Shei Yu & Kavitha A. Davidson I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Sportly is an Immigrantly Media Production For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this special Olympics episode of Sportly, host Kavitha A. Davidson dives into the fascinating process of how sports are chosen for the Olympic Games. From the historic debut of women's skateboarding at Tokyo 2020 to the introduction of breaking in Paris 2024, Kavitha explores the evolution of the Olympic program and the criteria determining which sports make the cut. Through captivating historical stories and insightful analysis, she uncovers the rich history of the Olympics, from its ancient roots to its modern-day transformations. Join Kavitha as she journeys through time and discover how the Olympics continue to adapt and grow with each passing year. Stay tuned for more Olympics stories! ___ Hosts: Kavitha A. Davison | Producers: Saadia Khan & Shei Yu I Content Writers: Michaela Strauther, Shei Yu & Kavitha A. Davidson I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Sportly is an Immigrantly Media Production For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Step into the bleachers of Comiskey Park, where the Boston Red Sox face off against the Chicago Cubs in the 1918 World Series. With America deep in the throes of World War I, baseball offers a brief escape from the harsh realities of war and loss. This pivotal game, featuring Babe Ruth as the Red Sox’s starting pitcher, also marks the moment when the Star-Spangled Banner begins its journey to becoming an iconic part of American sports. Join Sportly host Kavitha Davidson as she explores the history of playing the national anthem at sporting events in the wake of World War II, the Civil Rights Movement, and 9/11. Davidson examines how these moments have sparked both unity and protest throughout U.S. history. Listen to how athletes have used their platforms to unite and challenge the status quo, shedding light on the complex relationship between national identity, patriotism, and sports ___ Hosts: Kavitha A. Davison | Producers: Saadia Khan & Shei Yu I Content Writers: Michaela Strauther & Kavitha A Davidson I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Sportly is an Immigrantly Media Production For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the pilot episode of Sportly, sports journalist Kavitha A. Davidson explores the complex world of cricket, a sport deeply intertwined with politics, history, colonialism, and pop culture. Despite its limited popularity in the U.S., cricket is the second most popular sport globally. With 2024 marking the first time the USA will host an ICC event, the episode sets the stage for a deep dive into cricket’s global phenomenon. Kavitha highlights the intense and historic rivalry between India and Pakistan, which has captivated millions since their partition over 70 years ago. She shares personal anecdotes and recounts her family’s deep passion for cricket, especially during the World Cup. The episode traces cricket’s origins from the English countryside to its establishment in British India, exploring its rise in South Asian pop culture. Listeners will learn about iconic sports heroes, blockbuster films, and the sport’s massive economic impact. It’s a captivating story of colonization, media influence, celebrity culture, and international rivalry. ___ Hosts: Kavitha A. Davison | Producers: Saadia Khan & Shei Yu I Content Writers: Michaela Strauther & Kavitha A Davidson I Editorial review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound Sportly is an Immigrantly Media Production. For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Embark on a unique exploration of the world of sports with Sportly, a dynamic podcast by Immigrantly Media that transcends the typical focus on scoreboards and statistics. Accompany our host, Kavitha A Davidson, an Emmy award-winning sports journalist, on a journey through the intriguing narratives that underpin the games we adore, from iconic moments to lesser-known treasures. With each episode, we will go beyond the superficial, delving into the lives of legendary athletes, the cultural impact of sports, and the untold stories that shape the very nature of competition. Whether the challenges immigrants face shattering barriers or the victories that bring nations together, we reveal the human aspect of sports in a way that’s never been done before. Experience the adrenaline, the passion, and the emotion as we delve into the rich tapestry of sports history. From the court to the field, the arena to the pitch, Sportly promises to deliver captivating conversations that inspire and enlighten you. Episodes are released weekly on Mondays starting July 15, 2024. Host: Kavitha A. Davidson |Producer: Saadia Khan | Executive Producer: Saadia Khan I Content Writers: Michaela Staruther & Kavitha A.Davidson I Editorial Review: Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Steve Martin I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound | Cover Art Design: Sarah DiMichele For advertising inquiries, reach us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices