Big League Philanthropist
By Danielle Berman
Big League Philanthropist Feb 08, 2021
Sn 4, Episode 8: Tori Ramataboee, US Soccer Foundation
Tori joined the U.S. Soccer Foundation in February 2019 as a Program Associate, and has since tackled many roles across the Soccer for Success program to support training, technical assistance, curriculum development, events, grant management, and special projects. Prior to joining the Foundation, she was the Director of Development at ComePlayDetroit helping to grow community programming and partnerships, ultimately increasing opportunities for physical activity and play throughout the city. Additionally, Tori was Community Affairs Intern at the Detroit Tigers and served as a Peace Corps Volunteer in Lesotho at the intersection of health and youth programs for more than two years.
Danielle and Tori chat about her background in both sport management and social work and how that impacted her career, her time in the Peace Corps and the work she does at the US Soccer Foundation. Tori shares what philanthropy looks like in her eyes and shares her advice on making an impact.
You can learn more about the US Soccer Foundation at their website, https://ussoccerfoundation.org/. Also, make sure to follow the US Soccer Foundation on Instagram @ussoccerfoundation, on Twitter @ussoccerfndn, and on LinkedIn @U.S.SoccerFoundation. You can connect with Tori on LinkedIn as well, https://www.linkedin.com/in/tori-ramataboee/.
Sn 4, Episode 7: Adam Lewis, Sport and Play for Social Justice
Today, we're joined by Adam Lewis. Adam Lewis is focused on using play and sport to drive social justice and address the greatest challenges facing our communities.
Lewis currently serves as an Advisory Board Member to the Portland, OR Parks and Recreation Bureau, a Community Giving Officer creating economic equity across Oregon, and the Principal Consultant at an innovative Fantasy Sports start-up. Prior, he served as the Managing Director of Street Soccer USA-Portland (a nonprofit he Founded), led the social impact legacy strategy for INEOS at the World Athletics Championships OR22, and was a Fellow at the New Leaders Council (NLC).
As a community advocate, Lewis has ‘talked’ about play and empathy at TEDx, presented on the power of play in politics at the 2022 NLC Convention, was the 2019 Portland Timbers Community MVP Award winner, the Multnomah Athletic Foundation Impact Award winner, and has been featured in the Washington Post, USA Today and the Oregonian.
You can learn more about Adam's work at his website, https://www.adam-lewis.co/, and you can connect with Adam on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/in/adam-lewis-b3922a76/.
Listen to his Tedx Talk here: https://www.ted.com/talks/adam_lewis_how_soccer_helps_us_pay_attention_to_homelessness
Sn 4, Episode 6: Katie Appold, Do More Good
Today, we're joined by Katie Appold, the Executive Director of Do More Good and Nonprofit Hub. Do More Good is a nonprofit organization that focuses primarily on helping people start their own nonprofit journey. They provide many resources to assist people starting out in the nonprofit sector such as the Nonprofit Hub, Cause Camp, their nonprofit Certification Program, a blog, the “Do More Good” book, and a podcast coming in the near future.
Katie has a long-reaching nonprofit career, filling many leadership roles in human service, foundation, and publishing-related non-profits such as “Our Daily Bread”. Danielle and Katie chat about the importance of resources for nonprofit leaders, the differences between for profits and nonprofits, why it’s not always a good idea to create a nonprofit, and how she’s seen sports play a role in creating impact.
You can learn more about Do More Good and Nonprofit Hub at their website: https://domoregood.org. You can also follow them on Facebook at @DoMoreGood, on LinkedIn at https://www.linkedin.com/company/do-more-good/, on Twitter at @DoMoreGoodUS and on Instagram at @DoMoreGoodNonprofit. You can connect with Katie on LinkedIn at linkedin.com/in/katieappold.
Sn 4, Episode 5: Brett Rapkin, Podium Pictures
This week, we are joined by the incredible Brett Rapkin, a 6-time Emmy Award winner, and the CEO and Founder of Podium Pictures.
Over the past 20+ years, Brett has created many meaningful relationships and a deep track record for himself by developing, producing, distributing, and promoting premium content with many partners, such as the Los Angeles Dodgers and HBO. Brett wrote, produced, and directed “The Weight of Gold” documentary in partnership with Olympic legend Michael Phelps about mental health and Olympic athletes. The film received over 1.5 billion media impressions on platforms including CNN, The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, Forbes, and The Today Show.
Brett and Danielle talk about how "The Weight of Gold" came to be, Brett's approach to projects he takes on, his company's focus on socially impactful sports media, and the power of sports to make an impact. They also talk about the definition of philanthropy and his advice for athletes who want to speak out and make a difference.
To learn more about Podium Pictures, you can follow them on Twitter and Instagram @podiumpics, on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/Podium-Pictures-102657604576233, and you can follow on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/company/podium-pictures-llc/. You can also check them out at their website, https://www.podiumpictures.com/
Sn 4, Episode 4: Tony Everett, PureGame
Welcome back to the Big League Philanthropist! This week, we're joined by Tony Everett, the Founder and Chief Playmaker of PureGame. PureGame is a non-profit organization that puts caring adults, or as he calls them Field Champions, on the field to create meaningful connections through sport. PureGame focuses on making sport fun, while delivering life skills education. Kids step off the field of play knowing that they have what it takes to play the game and take on the challenges of life.
Last year, Tony created Personal Best Coaching, a program to help people achieve their maximum potential through unlocking new knowledge that can be used to further their careers and earn what they deserve. He is directly involved as a Head Coach, and 50% of the fees for this program go directly towards sponsoring kids through the PureGame program, thus helping even more people.
To learn more about PureGame, you can follow PureGame on Facebook at PureGame https://www.facebook.com/Thepuregame, and you can follow Tony on Linkedin at https://www.linkedin.com/in/puregame/. You can also check them out at their website, https://www.thepuregame.org/
Sn 4, Episode 3: Myriam Glez, Athletes Soul
Welcome back to the Big League Philanthropist! This week, we're joined by Myriam Glez, the Founder and CEO of Athletes Soul. Athletes Soul is an organization run by former athletes who are dedicated to giving their time and resources back to their athletic communities by providing an organization dedicated to retiring athletes. Myriam is a 2-time Olympic synchronized swimmer, competing for France in 2000 and for Australia in 2008. She also served as a Business Consultant for British Swimming and as a coach and member of USA Artistic Swimming.
To learn more about Athletes Soul, you can find them on Instagram at @athletessoul, on Facebook at Athletes Soul, and on LinkedIn at Athletes Soul. You can also check out their website at https://www.athletessoul.org/. If you'd like to keep up with what Myriam is doing, you can follow her on Instagram at @glez.myriam and on LinkedIn at Myriam Glez.
Sn 4, Episode 2: Hilton Freund, The Twinning Project
Welcome back to the Big League Philanthropist! This week, we're joined by Hilton Freund, Chief Executive at The Twinning Project, an initiative launched in the United Kingdom to pair professional European football clubs with Her Majesty's Prison and Probation Services. In this episode, Danielle and Hilton talk about how unemployment impacts imprisonment, the importance of receiving support from major sports teams, and what people can do to help drive change.
If you'd like to learn more about The Twinning Project, you can following them on Twitter at @projecttwinning, or on LinkedIn at www.linkedin.com/company/twinningproject-uk. You can also check them out at their website, www.twinningproject.org.
Sn 4, Episode 1: Jason Belinkie, Athletes For Hope
Welcome back to the Big League Philanthropist: Season 4!! For our first episode of the season, we're joined by Jason Belinkie, the CEO of Athletes For Hope, an organization dedicated to helping athletes become involved with philanthropy. In addition to being the CEO of Athletes For Hope, Jason is on the board of the University of Pennsylvania Track and Field team, as well as Hope for Henry, an organization dedicated to reinventing child's hospital care. In this episode, Danielle and Jason talk about Jason's own journey, his passion for philanthropic work, athlete involvement in philanthropy, the programs Athletes For Hope provides, his involvement with Hope for Henry, and what philanthropy means to him.
If you want to learn more about Athletes For Hope, you can follow them on Instagram at @athletesforhope, on Twitter at @athletesforhope, on Facebook at Athletes For Hope, and on LinkedIn at Athletes For Hope. You can also find them at their website, https://www.athletesforhope.org/. Thanks for tuning in!
BLP Bulletin: 05.09.2022
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights Allyson Felix and Pure Leaf teaming up on "No Grants", student athletes speaking out about mental health and lack of support, Steph Curry creating more equity in golf with a new junior golf tour, and what Brittney Griner's situation shows us about women's sports.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
College athlete speaks out about mental health pressures, gives advice to coaches, parents
Steph Curry Champions Diversity In Golf With New Junior Golf Tour
Commentary: Why Brittney Griner was in Russia, and what it says about women’s sports in the U.S.
U.S. reclassifies WNBA star Brittney Griner as 'wrongfully detained' by Russia
If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255) or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting HOME to 741741. You can reach Trans Lifeline at 877-565-8860 (U.S.) or 877-330-6366 (Canada) and The Trevor Project at 866-488-7386.
BLP Bulletin: 04.25.2022
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights NFL star Von Miller's work to support in-need students with vision care, the history and impact of sportswashing, Athletes Unlimited's first public benefit corporation report, Steph and Ayesha Curry's work to donate 50,000 free books to youth in Oakland and more.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
NFL fans honor Dwayne Haskins' life with hundreds of animal rescue donations
Von Miller Off the Field: His Passions and Projects
The Most Expensive World Cup in History
Athletes Unlimited Is 1st Pro League Designated as Public Benefit Corporation
Sportswashing Is Everywhere, but It’s Not New
Steph And Ayesha Curry Aim To Create 150 ‘Little Town Libraries’ In Oakland
BLP Bulletin: 04.11.2022
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights Colin Kaepernick's new second autopsy initiative, the letter six state attorney generals sent to the NFL around mistreatment of women employees, The Gaming Society raising over $3.5 million to continue to 'Bet on Women', Athletes Unlimited and Vote.Org's new Power in My Voice campaign, the important work of Seattle Kraken intersectionality consultant Chanel Keenan, the work of Bryce Weiler and the Beautiful Lives Project and more.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
Colin Kaepernick continues to make moves off the field, launching a second autopsy initiative
Six Attorneys General Warn NFL To Improve Treatment of Women
Sports betting startup Gaming Society just raised funding in a bid to get more women to bet—on women
Why the Seattle Kraken's Chanel Keenan is exactly what hockey needs
CBS Sports: Bryce Weiler and the Beautiful Lives Project
Athletes Unlimited, Vote.org Launch 'Power In My Voice' Partnership for 2022 Season
BLP Bulletin: 04.04.2022
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights Dikembe Mutombo's impact in the NBA and on the African continent, a new House bill on NCAA gender equity, criticism around the Qatar 2022 World Cup continues for human rights abuses, a historic donation to Canadian Olympians and Paralympians, and more.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
The GIST: Women's History Month Roundup
‘He is truly invaluable’: Dikembe Mutombo is still the NBA’s greatest ambassador for Africa
House Democrats Introduce Bill on NCAA Gender Equity
Qatar and FIFA criticized harshly ahead of World Cup draw
Canadian entrepreneur donates $1.2 million toward Olympic and Paralympic medallists
Malcolm Jenkins Retires as a Heavyweight On and Off the Field
Sn 3, Episode 10: Marissa Coleman, Gaming Society
Welcome back to the Big League Philanthropist! This week, we are joined by Marissa Coleman, the current VP of Business Development at Gaming Society, a platform dedicated to democratizing sports gambling and helping fans become more knowledgeable about the world of betting. Prior to her time with Gaming Society, she was a WNBA Forward who played for four different teams across ten seasons, primarily spending that time with Indiana and Washington. She also spent some time as the Chairwoman of a successful campaign to legalize sports gambling in the state of Maryland. In this episode, Danielle and Marissa talk about Marissa's basketball career, her time with Gaming Society, the growth of women's sports, and what philanthropy means to her.
If you want to know more about Marissa, you can follow her on Twitter at @Marissa_C25, on Instagram at @marissac_25, on Facebook as Marissa Coleman, as well as on LinkedIn as Marissa Coleman. If you'd like to learn more about Gaming Society, you can find them on Twitter at @GamingSociety and on Instagram as @GamingSociety, as well as at their website, https://thegamingsociety.com/. Thank you for listening!
BLP Bulletin: 02.28.2022
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights the USWNT supporting transgender rights, the sports world's response to Russia's invasion of Ukraine, Gatorade's big donation to support sports participation for young women and minorities, and the impact of LeBron James' work in his hometown of Akron, OH.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
5 Sport and Human Rights Issues to Look Out for in 2022
USWNT players wear 'Protect Trans Kids' wristbands in SheBelieves Cup victory over Iceland in Texas
Sports World Condemns Russian Attack on Ukraine
Winter Olympians champion climate, peace amid muted activism
Column: I promise, this is the real story of how LeBron James is saving Akron
Sn 3, Episode 9: Ben Orbach, The Ascendant Athlete
Welcome back to the Big League Philanthropist! On this week's episode, Danielle is joined by Ben Orbach, CEO of The Ascendant Athlete, an advisory group that supports professional athletes and teams to lead movements for social change. Before he created The Ascendant Athlete, Ben was many things, including a State Department official, a social entrepreneur, an international development practitioner, and an educator. In this episode, Ben and Danielle discuss his different jobs prior to The Ascendant Athlete, how he started the company, what they do, and they even talk about his book, Live From Jordan.
If you want to find out more about Ben and his work at The Ascendant Athlete, you can follow him on Twitter at @BenjaminOrbach and @AscendantAthlete, on Facebook at Benjamin Orbach, and on LinkedIn at Benjamin Orbach. Be sure to also check out their website, https://ascendantathlete.com/ to see what else they have going on. Thank you for listening to the podcast!
BLP Bulletin: 02.07.22
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights an indigenous athlete running to raise awareness for her community, a progress updated from the NBA's Social Justice Coalition, how sports betting is funding youth sports programming, and Brian Flores standing up to the NFL's discriminatory hiring practices.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
Raptors’ Pascal Siakam Donates $25K and Sneakers to Toronto’s Kickback Charity
Mark Ingram provides $10,000 to help increase participation of youth sports in New Orleans
Texas' Andrew Jones giving portion of name, image and likeness funds to cancer research
‘We Have a Lot More to Do’: Inside the NBA’s Unprecedented Social Justice Coalition
Ohio Joins New York in Allocating Cut of Sports Betting Proceeds to Youth Sports
Brian Flores’ lawsuit shines a brutal light on the NFL’s hiring practices
Sn 3, Episode 8: Adam Miller, Good Game Foundation
Welcome back to the Big League Philanthropist podcast! In this episode, Danielle sits down with Adam Miller, Founder of Good Game Foundation. In this episode, they discuss how Adam combined his passion for sport and his family values surrounding giving back to create the Good Game Foundation, as well as how he was influenced by the intersection of sports and social good. They also talk about what the Good Game Foundation does and how they accomplish what they do.
If you want to follow Adam and learn more about his work, you can find him on Twitter at @GoodGameFdn and Instagram at @GoodGameFdn, as well as on LinkedIn at Good Game Foundation. Be sure to visit the Good Game Foundation website: https://www.goodgamefoundation.org/ and join their fan club. Thank you for your continued support of the podcast!
BLP Bulletin: 1.24.22
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights Denmark’s national team taking a stand against Qatar’s human rights violations, black athletes speaking out about mental health, Tyrann Mathieu winning the Walter Payton Man of the Year Charity Challenge, an Afghan girls soccer team fleeing to Portugal, and more.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
‘We all stand together’: Why Denmark are championing human rights at the 2022 Qatar World Cup
NHL Rookie Launches Foundation to Empower the Next Generation of Athletes
An Afghan girls soccer team rebelled to play the game they love. Now they're refugees
Activists warn Olympians against criticizing China
Tyrann Mathieu Voted Winner of Walter Payton Man of the Year NFL Charity Challenge
Black Athletes Speaking Out Can Light a Path to Mental Health
Sn. 3, Episode 7: Ben Troupe, Uncommon Cru
We're back with another episode of the Big League Philanthropist! Danielle sits down with Ben Troupe, former NFL tight end for the Tennessee Titans, now an ESPN radio host, motivational speaker, author and a philanthropist, creating the Uncommon Cru. They discuss Ben's love of philanthropy, what inspired him to launch the Uncommon Cru and his "why" when it comes to making an impact. They also talk about the other projects he's has been up to, like his book, Uncommon and Unfinished, and working for ESPN Radio in the Coastal Georgia region. Danielle and Ben also chat about the work that goes into creating a nonprofit.
You can follow Ben and what he is up to on all social media platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter at @bentroupe84! Ben's latest book, Uncommon and Unfinished is out now and you can get it directly from his website at www.bentroupe84.com or anywhere you buy your books. You can listen to Ben shoot the breeze about football and other topics that he is fired up about on ESPN Coastal every day, Monday thru Friday from 3pm to 6pm. You can listen at the link here!
BLP Bulletin: 1.10.22
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights a new NIL deal signed to support Make-A-Wish Foundation, an update from the NFL's Inspire Change Initiative, how vaccine mandates are shaking up the world of tennis, and the impact Venus Williams has made on and off the tennis court.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
Chris Dickerson Leads Third Annual Beach Cleanup in Dominican Republic with Fellow Athletes
Year 3 of Future Goals Most Valuable Teacher Program Presented by SAP Hits the Ice
NBA veteran Etan Thomas pens another powerful book
NFL collectively celebrates Inspire Change initiative in-season
Novak Djokovic Is Refused Entry Into Australia Over Vaccine Exemption
Amid a Victorious Career, Venus Williams Is Paying Her Vision Forward
BLP Bulletin: 12.20.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights the impact of diplomatic boycotts on Beijing 2022, a new NIL deal aimed to direct college players to give back to the community, the new ALL CAPS ALL HER initiative from the Washington Capitals, and the NFL's 2021 Walter Payton Man of the Year nominees.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
Bills Mafia donates $40K to visually impaired charity in honor of 'blind' NFL refs after no-call
Lions’ Trey Flowers moderates panel on mass incarceration, systemic racism
U.S. officials to boycott Beijing Olympics over rights 'atrocities'
The GIST: Sunday Scroll: The Olympics boycotts continue
New NIL Program To Give Texas Offensive Lineman $50K To Play In Austin
Washington Capitals making way for women, girls in hockey
NFL's 2021 Walter Payton Man of the Year Award: Dak Prescott, Darren Waller among 32 nominees
Sn. 3, Episode 6: Chineze "Chinny" Nwagbo, PeacePlayers Baltimore
Welcome back to the Big League Philanthropist! On this episode, Danielle sits down with Chineze ("Chinny") Nwagbo, who is the interim director at PeacePlayers Baltimore. They reflect on Chinny's journey as a high school basketball prodigy to an international basketball star. They also chat about Chinny's transition from the basketball court to governmental affairs working with the U.S. Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs Sports Diplomacy program. Chinny is currently doing amazing work with PeacePlayers, like hosting the Play It Forward Podcast, and she elaborates on what they do to help underserved communities in the Baltimore region.
If you want to learn more about the Play It Forward Podcast and about PeacePlayers US you can visit their website here. Please give Chinny a follow on Instagram at @chinny_n to see her journey working with PeacePlayers and give the org a follow as well at @peaceplayers_us! You can also follow PeacePlayers on Facebook, Twitter, and LinkedIn.
BLP Bulletin: 12.06.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights the WTA making an important statement and pulling tournaments out of China, major moments in Jewish sports history, two NFL players making an impact in their communities, and the current state of mental health awareness in the NFL.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
WTA suspends China tournaments amid concern for Peng Shuai
The GIST: Major Moments in Jewish Sports History
Stephen Curry and Lee Elder join forces to inspire more Black golfers
Ronnie Stanley Launches Foundation Matching Dogs With People in Need
NFL Cornerback Jonathan Jones Supports Youth Coding Challenge, Forms $20,000 STEM Scholarship
Pushed by Players, the N.F.L. Works to Embrace Mental Health
Support the family of Katie-Jay Scott & iAct:
Sn. 3, Episode 5: Clayton Frech, Angel City Sports
Welcome back to the Big League Philanthropist! This episode, Danielle sits down with Clayton Frech, the founder of Angel City Sports to discuss his journey to founding the organization and how his son, Ezra was his inspiration to do so. They also chat about Ezra's journey to becoming a Paralympian and the vision and mission of Angel City Sports to provide adaptive sports opportunities for kids, veterans, and adults.
Thank you Clayton for coming on the podcast to share your story of founding such an impactful organization! Be sure to subscribe and listen to Clayton's podcast on Spotify, Sports Saved My Life, where Clayton chats with Paralympians and adaptive athletes who share how sports saved their lives. And if you want to learn more about Angel City Sports, you can visit their website at www.angelcitysports.org. You can also follow Angel City Sports on Instagram at @angelcitysports, on Twitter @angelcitysports, and on LinkedIn and Facebook.
Support the family of Katie-Jay Scott & iAct:
Support iAct and the Family of Katie-Jay Scott
All of us at the Big League Philanthropist are saddened by the tragic passing of Katie-Jay Scott and her husband Gabe. Katie-Jay Scott was the Executive Director of iAct and an incredible philanthropist. She and her husband leave behind three children and countless refugee families supported through iAct. We had the pleasure to interview Katie-Jay on Season 2 of BLP and her passion was contagious.
Please consider donating to support her children as they navigate this unfathomable loss at this Go Fund Me page. And please keep Katie-Jay and her husband's dreams of ensuring refugees are not forgotten alive by donating to support iAct and their mission.
BLP Bulletin: 11.22.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights the disappearance of Peng Shuai, the conflict surrounding the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics, athletes using their platforms to raise awareness of Julius Jones' case, and the new framework adopted by the IOC around inclusion and non discrimination for elite level athletes.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
Browns cornerback Greg Newsome II is no rookie to giving back
A.J. Brown's Powerful Message about Mental Health and Self-Harm
NBA Players Win. Julius Jones Sentence Commuted
ESPN, Doc Wayne and The Village Team Up to Expand Mental Health Services for Youth
A Chinese Tennis Star Accuses a Former Top Leader of Sexual Assault
Opinion: Biden administration soon to announce diplomatic boycott of the Beijing Olympics
Axios Sports Newsletter: 🇨🇳 Olympics sponsors caught between U.S. and China
Athlete Ally: Groundbreaking IOC Framework Centers Inclusion and Non-Discrimination
BLP Bulletin: 11.15.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights the inaugural Laureus & Sports Pro Sports For Good Index, the US news interest shift from politics to sports, three steps sports organizations can take to prepare for climate change, and the WNBPA partnering with Pepsi Stronger Together to support local causes with players.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
Front Office Sports on LinkedIn: Najee Harris Renovates Homeless Shelter Where He Once Lived
The Earl Monroe New Renaissance Basketball School
17th Annual Charity Sports Auction Goes Hybrid, Begins Nov. 20
Laureus & Sports Pro Present: The Sport For Good Index
Playbook Insights | Three steps to begin the climate change battle
Americans now want to read about sports, not politics
Aaron Rodgers addresses last week's COVID-19 comments: 'I’m an athlete, I’m not an activist'
BLP Bulletin: 11.08.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights NCAA student-athletes and coaches focusing on civic engagement, history being made with all five major mens sports having openly gay players competing, the importance of investment in youth sports, and the winners of The Foundation for Global Sports Development's 2021 Athletes in Excellence Award.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
Denver Nuggets Host Do All You Can Food Drive on November 10th
Australia’s Josh Cavallo becomes first openly gay current top-flight soccer player
Why the Coach Next Door is More Important is More Important Than You Think
The GIST: Sunday Scroll: On your mark, get set, topple the patriarchy
BLP Bulletin: 11.01.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights the WNBA continuing to lead the way in advocating for social justice and for their own rights, the NFL's toxic culture rearing it's head again, the NHL world rocked by a sexual assault coverup, and China continuing to be a tricky problem for sports business.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
Tennessee Titans Partner with Mars Petcare
Cardinals TE Zach Ertz to give 5,000 meals per TD to Arizona food banks
5x World Medalist Gymnast Morgan Hurd Talks Social Justice & Embracing Identity On And Off The Mat
Player Profile: Kareem Jackson has drive on and off the football field
WNBA Players to Get Free Fertility Testing, Reproductive Support
WNBA players, America’s leading sports activists, have Texas in their crosshairs
Jon Gruden's fall is a warning to the NFL
Beijing Olympics Sponsors' $110 Billion Problem
Boston Celtics star slams China’s Xi over Tibet, Tencent scraps team’s NBA broadcast
Sn. 3, Episode 4: John Balkam, Third Win Group
Welcome back to the Big League Philanthropist podcast! On this episode, Danielle sits down with John Balkam, Founder of the Third Win Group (TWG) to discuss his journey from being an athlete to now running his own agency focused on social good. They also talk about the importance of business that makes the world better. John has some great advice for athletes who are looking to build a brand based on purpose and impact that you won't want to miss!
For those who are looking to learn more about John's story and about the Third Win Group, you can visit their website at thirdwin.com. You can also give the Third Win Group a follow on LinkedIn and on Instagram, @thirdwingroup. Thank you for supporting this podcast and feel free to share this episode with someone that may be interested in our conversation with John!
Sn. 3, Episode 3: Jordan Marie Daniel, Rising Hearts
Welcome back to the Big League Philanthropist podcast! In this episode, Danielle sits down with Jordan Marie Brings Three White Horses Daniel – Kul Wičasa Lakota, a citizen of Kul Wicasa Oyate (Lower Brule Sioux Tribe) and founder of Rising Hearts to discuss the impact of intersectionality and creating change in the spaces you take up.
Rising Hearts is an organization dedicated to raising the voices of Indigenous Peoples while also promoting intersectionality to create change. Jordan is a professional runner and has been using that platform to create change through several initiatives, including the #RunningForJustice campaign that has become an intersecting effort to raise awareness for Black lives, Asian lives, Indigenous lives, and all of those who are impacted by white supremacy and systems of oppression.
You can follow along with Jordan and her journey by following on Instagram at @nativein_la and @rising_hearts and check out Jordan's website HERE! Thank you all for listening to this episode and be sure to share this episode with someone who may enjoy this conversation between Danielle and Jordan.
BLP Bulletin: 10.11.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights the athletes advocating for abortion rights, NWSL players speaking out after years of ignored sexual harassment, Front Office Sports on the importance of activism to NIL deals, and how Players for the Planet is making an environmental impact with major leaguers.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
Utah Jazz All-Star Donovan Mitchell is Delivering $1M Assist to Teachers
Syracuse, MEAC agree to 10-year partnership on and off field
Assists to Activism: Trae Young's Leadership Bigger Than Basketball
Adidas Sustainable NHL Jerseys For 2021-22 Season
Introducing Vox’s new HBO show, Level Playing Field
Megan Rapinoe, other women athletes back abortion rights at US Supreme Court
FOS College - Importance of Activism in NIL
The Environment Affects Baseball. These Players Want to Help.
Sn. 3, Episode 2: Mechelle Freeman, TrackGirlz
In this episode of Big League Philanthropist, Danielle speaks with Mechelle Freeman, the founder of TrackGirlz. They speak about her experience as an Olympian, her journey to creating TrackGirlz and the work they do using track and field to inspire young girls to be the best version of themselves while also giving them strong, female role models.
Make sure to follow Mechelle and her incredible journey with TrackGirlz on Instagram at @trackgirlz, on Facebook at @TrackGirlz, and on Twitter @TrackGirlzOrg.
Sn 3, Episode 1: La Faye Baker, Diamond in the RAW
La Faye Baker is a professional stunt woman and stunt coordinator and the Founder of Diamond in the RAW. La Faye has made her mark in the community through her continued work in educating, inspiring, and encouraging the youth. Be sure to follow La Faye on Instagram @bakerlafaye and Facebook at La Faye Baker, and Diamond in the RAW on Instagram @ditrfoundation and Twitter @DiamondintheRAW and visit their website https://www.diamondintheraw.org/ to learn more about how you can help!
BLP Bulletin: 09.13.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights the sports world reflecting 20 years post 9/11, a huge loss for Boston school sports, a pro soccer star speaking out about women's rights and sports in wake of the Taliban takeover in Afghanistan, sustainable projects taking over international soccer and a new reality show competition that is making many people shake their heads.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
ESPN.com - How 9/11 continues to resonate throughout college football 20 years later
The Boston Globe - A loss for Boston school sports: Major support program shutters
Essex News Daily - Malcolm Jenkins Foundation and Newark Public Schools announce partnership
GoodGoodGood.co - This UK Soccer Club is Trialing Edible Coffee Cups
Impact on Instagram - What are your thoughts on #TheActivist?
BLP Bulletin: 09.06.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights some Paralympic updates, the proposed settlement from USA Gymnastics, Steph and Ayesha Curry investing in women's sports, Venus Williams supporting fans mental health and Layshia Clarendon tackling the stigma of periods in sports.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
Real Sports with Bryant Gumbel: Oksana Masters | Official Clip | HBO
Afghan Paralympians to compete in Tokyo after evacuation
Tokyo Paralympics 2020: Indian athletes make history
U.S.A. Gymnastics and Abuse Survivors Propose a $425 Million Payout
Stephen Curry, wife Ayesha donate undisclosed amount for new women's sports scholarship at Davidson
Layshia Clarendon on Periods in Sports, Stigma, and Activism
Product Innovation and Resources to Help Those Who Menstruate Stay in Play
BLP Bulletin: 08.30.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights historic representation from the Paralympic Games in Tokyo, the NBA prioritizing social justice for players, Colin Kaepernick's new children's book, and the WNBA being recognized for their unprecedented impact on the community.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
Tokyo Paralympic Games welcomes record number of LGBTQ athletes
The Gist Special Edition: 🤔 History of the Paralympic Games
FSU’s Dillan Gibbons partners with GoFundMe opening door for creation of his own nonprofit
‘Their lives are in danger’: Afghanistan’s female athletes sound alarm after Taliban takeover
Women's national team players leave Afghanistan on evacuation flight
Colin Kaepernick Set To Release His First Children’s Book, ‘I Color Myself Different’
NBA, NBPA add social justice panel to Rookie Transition Program
How the Colombia football jersey became a symbol of protest
How The WNBA Became The World’s Most Community Focused Sports League
BLP Bulletin: 08.23.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights Olympians making an impact outside of the games, the launch of the new Center for Healing & Justice Through Sport, the Taliban takeover's impact on sports, and another example of NIL for good.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
Simone Biles is an Olympic hero unlike any athlete we’ve ever seen
The IOC’s response to Raven Saunders exposes its hypocrisy around ‘political neutrality’
Goals: Megan Rapinoe launches ‘The Call In’ book club
How A’ja Wilson’s Dyslexia Is Helping Her Build Her Off-Court Legacy
"The True Value of a Medal Always Remains In the Heart" - Religion of Sports
The Center For Healing & Justice Through Sport Launches With Trauma-Informed Coaching for Youth
1 big thing: 🇦🇫 Taliban takeover threatens sports
FSU's Gibbons uses NIL for good: "I’m going to take this thing as far as I possibly can.”
BLP Bulletin: 08.02.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights the new Protect Our People campaign from More Than a Vote, Lewis Hamilton's new charitable foundation, the divide over transgender athletes in the Olympics, the strength of Simone Biles and IOC sponsors facing heat about the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
A voting rights group backed by athletes launches a campaign focused on criminal justice reform.
Lewis Hamilton launches Mission 44 charitable foundation with personal pledge of £20m
Exclusive poll: The deep divide over trans athletes in Olympics
Olympian Simone Biles Wants A Sponsor That Will Help Her Do Good—And She's Not The Only One
IOC sponsors facing heat over Beijing Olympics, human rights
BLP Bulletin: 07.26.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights Buddy Boeheim using the power of NIL for good, Luke Prokop making history in gender equity for the NHL, and all things activism and the Olympics.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
Syracuse’s Buddy Boeheim to donate NIL earnings to charity
Luke Prokop becomes first player on NHL contract to come out as gay
US Paralympic athletes will receive equal pay for the first time at the Tokyo Olympics
Swimmer didn’t bring her nursing baby to the Olympics, citing impractical rules
BLP Bulletin: 07.19.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights the ESPY winners making an impact, the positive response to racism towards England players over the Euro Cup, the MLB's historic deal with the Players Alliance, and Allyson Felix's work to support equity for athlete moms.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
ESPY Award winners 2021: Full results, highlights, best moments from the ESPYs
ESPN Twitter: Maya Moore's ESPYs Acceptance Speech
Laurent Duvernay-Tardif wins Muhammad Ali Sports Humanitarian Award at 2021 ESPYs
ESPYS Twitter: Marcus Rashford Receives the ESPYs' Pat Tillman Award for Service - the Story
Togethxr Twitter: Paige Bueckers' ESPYs Acceptance Speech
Petition for lifetime ban from football matches for racists nears 1m signatures
Online racists face football ban of up to 10 years, vows Boris Johnson
MLB commits up to $150M to Players Alliance
Stick to sports? Here's what could happen to Olympians who protest at Tokyo Games
BLP Bulletin: 07.12.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights the need for more mental health resources for NCAA athletes, the Olympics facing issues around a lack of equity and inclusion for black women athletes, Carmelo Anthony's impact work and how football fans can support climate change efforts.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
And register for our upcoming Athlete Impact Summit THIS Thursday, July 15th for free here!
Featured Articles:
As NIL Grabs Headlines, NCAA Athletes Urge More Mental Health Aid
Naomi Osaka Gets Candid About the Pressures of Attention and Activism in New Netflix Docuseries
Olympics Allows Protests, but Not During Events or on Medals Stand
Tommie Smith believes the time is right for athletes to protest at Tokyo Olympics
Black women athletes are still being scrutinized ahead of the Olympics despite their successes
Black Female Athletes Score for Activism
Carmelo Anthony of Portland Trail Blazers wins Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Social Justice Champion award
Could mobilising football fans be a key climate action strategy?
BLP Bulletin: 06.28.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights transgender athletes and the Olympics, the bravery of Carl Nassib and Kumi Yokoyama in each speaking their truth, the WNBA women of the Jordan Brand, Torrey Smith and Aaron Maybin's new leadership academy in Baltimore, the state of diversity and inclusion in the NHL, and how activism is moving to political action from NBA superstars.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
And register for our upcoming Athlete Impact Summit here!
Featured Articles:
Transgender Runner CeCe Telfer Will Not Be Allowed To Compete In U.S. Olympic Trials
Raiders’ Carl Nassib Announces He’s Gay, an N.F.L. First
Washington Spirit soccer player Kumi Yokoyama comes out as trans
‘We don’t take this for granted’: The Black women reppin’ the Jordan Brand in the WNBA
Torrey Smith Launches Leadership Academy in West Baltimore
The NHL’s slow skate toward change
Can NBA Players Become Politicians?BLP Bulletin: 06.21.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights the recent news around race-norming in the NFL that has been largely ignored, and why it's important we learn more and hold the NFL accountable to make changes.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
Sunday Scroll: Race-norming in the NFL
BLP Bulletin: 06.14.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights Warrick Dunn's work to combat housing inequality, the first trans athlete to compete for Team USA, hockey's The Carnegie Initiative to support diversity and inclusion and how taking a knee is viewed by football fans across Europe.
Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
Former NFL Star Warrick Dunn Tackles Housing Inequalities
Trans BMX rider Chelsea Wolfe in line for Team USA at Tokyo Olympics
The Carnegie Initiative Brings Together Titans In Hockey To Champion Diversity
Taking a knee: Football fans across Europe asked about its importance and if they support it
BLP Bulletin: 06.07.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights Naomi Osaka's stand for athlete mental health, the continued disparities in men's and women's NCAA sports, and stories around progress on LGBTQ+ inclusion in sports. Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles: ‘This Will 100% Save Somebody’s Life.’ Athletes See a Turning Point for Mental Health After Naomi Osaka Takes a Stand at the French Open Meditation app vows to pay fines of tennis pros who skip news conferences in honor of Naomi Osaka, mental health Sedona Prince Has a Message for You NY Times: The Morning - Massages vs. doubleheaders Michael Jordan donates $1M to Morehouse journalism, sports Bubba Wallace - Armchair Expert Seattle Seahawks and Fellow Seattle Pro Sports Teams Come Together to Support Gender-Inclusive Youth Sports and Local LGBTQ+-Owned Small Businesses Living Nonbinary in a Binary Sports World The Gist - Sunday Scroll: Full of Pride
BLP Bulletin: 05.31.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights the state of athlete activism one year after George Floyd's murder, Josh Bell's commitment to take action and make impact, the new biopic on Fritz Pollard and Naomi Osaka's stand for mental health for athletes when dealing with the media. Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
George Floyd changed the world of athlete activism
Martin Luther King III: Players boycotting sports will guarantee action on racism overnight
Josh Bell has thought long and hard about social change. In Washington, he’s ready to act.
Producer Joel B. Michaels Developing Biopic On Fritz Pollard, First Black Football Player In The NFL
Naomi Osaka Says She Won’t Talk to Journalists at the French Open
BLP Bulletin: 05.24.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights pro athletes standing against voter suppression, former student athletes partnering to stop abuse in youth sports, athletes like Steph Curry and Maya Moore continuing to work for change, Keston Hiura advocating to #StopAsianHate, and more. Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
MLS, NWSL, USWNT soccer players sign joint statement against voter suppression
OSU and U-M sex assault survivors partner with national organization to stop abuse in youth sports
Exclusive: Stephen and Ayesha Curry join One Million Black Women initiative
After Helping Her Husband Gain Freedom, Maya Moore Savors Her Own
Kareem Abdul-Jabbar Reflects on the Legacy of the Athlete-Activist (and His Own)
Milwaukee Brewers infielder Keston Hiura shares experiences as Asian-American professional athlete
A new era of athlete activists inherit a centuries-old fight for justice
Sn2, Episode 8: Katie-Jay Scott, iACT
In this episode of Big League Philanthropist, Danielle chats with Katie-Jay Scott, former soccer player for UNC Wilmington and current executive director of iACT, a nonprofit that helps refugees lead and create change within their home communities.
Katie-Jay discusses the work iACT does and why she was drawn to it. She also shares more about the soccer program she founded, Refugees United, which focuses on getting children in refugee camps involved with the sport. Finally, Danielle and Katie-Jay chat about her love for soccer and how it has left its mark on her life, her philanthropy goals, the difference that iACT has made globally, and how iACT and Refugees United will continue to make real change.
You can follow Katie-Jay on Twitter @katiejayscott and Instagram @ktjscott, and iACT on Twitter @iact and Instagram @iactivism. You can learn more about their work on their website: https://www.iact.ngo/.
BLP Bulletin: 05.03.21
In this week's roundup of articles from the world of athlete activism and sports philanthropy, Danielle highlights more forgotten names of athlete activists from history, the influence of social justice on black athlete identities, Lewis Hamilton's activism, Dikembe Mutombo's $1 Billion investment into the Congo, PepsiCo's $1 Million investment to underserved US communities, and Philadelphia Union's work to reach zero landfill status. Follow us on twitter @bigleaguephil and on instagram @bigleaguephilanthropist, and follow our parent company @tacklewhatsnext on any platform!
Featured Articles:
PepsiCo Commits $1 Million To Improve Access To Soccer In Underserved Communities In The U.S.
Philadelphia Union target zero landfill status for Subaru Park