Sporting Change

In this episode of the Sporting Change Podcast, hosts Mat and Raine introduce a unique twist: instead of asking the questions, they hand over the reins to Lynn Kachmarik for an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) workshop. Returning from season 1, Lynn (she/her) is a renowned figure in sports, and has an impressive background. She captained the United States Women’s National Team for a decade, broke barriers as the first woman to manage a minor league baseball team, and has been honored in six Athletic Halls of Fame. Notably, she was also the first female head coach of a men’s NCAA team sport. Lynn's extensive experience and achievements establish her as a role model, not only for her professional success but also for her dedication to uplifting coaches and advancing sports. As the founder of True Brand Sports and president of Equilibria in Education and Equilibria in Sports, Lynn is deeply committed to driving positive change and inclusivity in the sporting world. Her workshops, accessible to athletes of all levels worldwide, aim to foster inclusivity and elevate sports culture.  Lynn's passion for leadership consultancy and her tireless efforts to empower coaches underscore her profound impact on the global sports community. The podcast offers a two-part episode featuring Lynn’s workshop, promising to provoke thoughtful reflection on equity, diversity, and inclusion in sports.

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

In this episode of the Sporting Change Podcast, hosts Mat and Raine introduce a unique twist: instead of asking the questions, they hand over the reins to Lynn Kachmarik for an Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) workshop. Returning from season 1, Lynn (she/her) is a renowned figure in sports, and has an impressive background. She captained the United States Women’s National Team for a decade, broke barriers as the first woman to manage a minor league baseball team, and has been honored in six Athletic Halls of Fame. Notably, she was also the first female head coach of a men’s NCAA team sport. Lynn's extensive experience and achievements establish her as a role model, not only for her professional success but also for her dedication to uplifting coaches and advancing sports. As the founder of True Brand Sports and president of Equilibria in Education and Equilibria in Sports, Lynn is deeply committed to driving positive change and inclusivity in the sporting world. Her workshops, accessible to athletes of all levels worldwide, aim to foster inclusivity and elevate sports culture.  Lynn's passion for leadership consultancy and her tireless efforts to empower coaches underscore her profound impact on the global sports community. The podcast offers a two-part episode featuring Lynn’s workshop, promising to provoke thoughtful reflection on equity, diversity, and inclusion in sports.

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

In Canada, there's a hidden history, a narrative often omitted from our textbooks and classrooms. The reality is stark and the roots of systemic injustices run deep. Our educational curriculum shockingly overlooks the similarities between apartheid laws in South Africa and laws Canada enacted ten years earlier. The seeds of colonization, the residential school system, and the oppressive tactics of Indian agents were introduced by our own government, a dark chapter Canada has ignored for many, many years.

In more recent years, there's been a noticeable push for truth and reconciliation efforts. However, these actions often stay at surface level, predominantly emphasizing the reconciliation component while neglecting a more profound examination of the truth. Our guest today is here to help us do just that… to take a deeper look at our Canadian history and gain a new lens as we take a critical look at the Canadian sport systems.

Dr. Lisa Tink (she/her)serves as a researcher and consultant, with her focus on revealing inherent issues within the inclusion discourses, practices, and policies governing Canada's recreation and sport systems. Holding a position at the University of Alberta, Lisa brings her expertise to shed light on what is challenging and potentially problematic in these aspects. Her latest book, titled "Fit to be Canadian? The Recreation Industrial Complex in Canada," delves into the intricacies of the Canadian recreation landscape. Before reentering the academic realm, Lisa held the role of director in the Government of Alberta's Recreation and Physical Activity Division, and she also served as a manager at the Alberta Recreation and Parks Association. 

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

In Canada, there's a hidden history, a narrative often omitted from our textbooks and classrooms. The reality is stark and the roots of systemic injustices run deep. Our educational curriculum shockingly overlooks the similarities between apartheid laws in South Africa and laws Canada enacted ten years earlier. The seeds of colonization, the residential school system, and the oppressive tactics of Indian agents were introduced by our own government, a dark chapter Canada has ignored for many, many years.

In more recent years, there's been a noticeable push for truth and reconciliation efforts. However, these actions often stay at surface level, predominantly emphasizing the reconciliation component while neglecting a more profound examination of the truth. Our guest today is here to help us do just that… to take a deeper look at our Canadian history and gain a new lens as we take a critical look at the Canadian sport systems.

Dr. Lisa Tink (she/her)serves as a researcher and consultant, with her focus on revealing inherent issues within the inclusion discourses, practices, and policies governing Canada's recreation and sport systems. Holding a position at the University of Alberta, Lisa brings her expertise to shed light on what is challenging and potentially problematic in these aspects. Her latest book, titled "Fit to be Canadian? The Recreation Industrial Complex in Canada," delves into the intricacies of the Canadian recreation landscape. Before reentering the academic realm, Lisa held the role of director in the Government of Alberta's Recreation and Physical Activity Division, and she also served as a manager at the Alberta Recreation and Parks Association. 

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

Recent research surrounding workplace misconduct, bullying, and harassment at large companies point to a pervasive issue that has recently been coined as "masculinity contest culture” (MCC). This culture fosters an environment where employees are encouraged to showcase stereotypically masculine traits like emotional toughness, physical stamina, and ruthlessness to succeed. The competitive nature of this culture seen in the corporate world, has now been studied and compared to the world of sports. The persistence of a Masculinity contest culture is often justified by a "win at all cost" mentality. In the pursuit of excellence, there has been a prioritization of performance and results over fostering positive human experiences.

Our guest today, Katrina Monton (she/her), is a doctoral student at Columbia University and a former Canadian Water polo national team player. With an impressive athletic career, Katrina combines her experience as a former high-performance athlete with her academic pursuits in social-organizational psychology to focus her research on the promotion of psychological safety and wellness, particularly within high-performance environments like sports. Currently, her PhD research dives into the impact of organizational culture on athlete well-being and performance, with a specific focus on Olympic and Paralympic sports. Through her work, Katrina aims to enhance understanding and support for athletes' safety and success on and off the field.

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

In our society, traditional notions of masculinity, reinforced by phrases like "be a man" and "boys will be boys," carry significant consequences. Men, bound by these unwritten rules, face heightened risks to their mental health, with suicide rates three times higher than those of women. These norms dictate that seeking help is a sign of weakness, emotions signify inadequacy, and closeness with other men is taboo. Deviating from these expectations risks exclusion from the "boys' club," compelling men to conform to prove their worth. Despite this, society rarely challenges these norms, perpetuating them through various mediums like social media, movies, and pop culture. In this episode, our guest Dr. Michael Kehler explores the profound impact of these societal expectations on male mental health and the need to redefine masculinity for a more inclusive and compassionate future.

Originally from Kingston, Ontario, Dr. Michael Kehler completed his undergraduate studies at Queen's University before obtaining his PhD from Michigan State University. With 17 years of experience teaching at Western University, he's now a Research Professor in Masculinities' Studies at the University of Calgary. Dr. Kehler collaborates globally, focusing on equity, gender, and masculinity in education. His work addresses critical issues including the unwritten rules of masculinity, violence prevention, body image, and masculinity during the COVID pandemic.

After listening to our conversation with Dr. Kehler, we hope you are one step closer to understanding that maybe it’s time to redefine what it means to “be a man”.

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

Leadership in sports extends beyond victories on the field; it encompasses navigating difficult discussions and communicating effectively, positively, and constructively. Today, we delve into the importance of effective communication, recognizing it as a two-way street. Our focus isn't just on delivering inclusive messages but also on honing active listening skills to better understand and empathize with others.

We're privileged to host Dr. Julie Booke, whose expertise spans recreational studies, wilderness education, and educational research. As a faculty member at Mount Royal University, Dr. Booke imparts her wisdom on program planning, leadership, and current issues in sport and recreation.

Join us as we explore today's topic: effective communication for sports leaders. With Dr. Julie Booke's guidance, we're excited to dive into this essential subject and provide valuable insights for our listeners. Tune in and enjoy our conversation!

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

Our guest today, Dr. Cari Din, brings a unique perspective to the table. Not only is she an Olympic silver medalist from the 1996 Atlanta Games, but she's also a trailblazer in education and coaching. From her beginnings in artistic swimming to her extensive academic achievements, including a PhD in "Olympic Medal Winning Leadership Behavior," Cari's journey exemplifies dedication and excellence.

As the Academic Director at the University of Calgary’s Academic Leadership Academy, Cari shares her expertise in courses ranging from Leadership Foundations to The Art of Coaching. With her fearless approach to challenging sport norms and promoting meaningful connections, Cari inspires us to rethink traditional paradigms in sports and education.

Join us as we delve into thought-provoking questions: What impact do we want to leave on those around us? Do our daily actions align with the values we preach? Are we prioritizing our own well-being to avoid burnout and be the best leaders possible?

Get ready to be inspired as we explore the intersection of sports and education with the remarkable Dr. Cari Din. Tune in and join the conversation!

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

In this episode, we dive into the profound journey of an athlete, from the initial spark of passion as a young dreamer to the pinnacle of Olympic glory. Our guest, Olympic Champion Erica Wiebe (she/her) epitomizes the embodiment of resilience and dedication in Canadian sports. With an distinguished career spanning 15 years, Erica has not only clinched an Olympic Gold Medal in Freestyle Wrestling but has also devoted herself to amplifying the untold narratives that often underlie moments of triumph. From her early days training alongside top athletes at the London 2012 Games to her pivotal role in shaping safe sport training initiatives, Erica's impact extends far beyond the medals and mats. As the Manager of Athlete Relations, Safe Sport, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion at the Canadian Olympic Committee, Erica continues to champion inclusivity and empowerment. Her extensive experience, coupled with academic achievements including a Queens Cornell Executive MBA and Bachelor's degrees in Kinesiology and Arts (Honors), equips her with a wealth of knowledge and passion. Through our conversation with Erica, we are reminded of the profound message that each day presents an opportunity to shape the legacy we leave behind, transcending the realm of sports into the broader landscape of life's endeavors.

Instagram: @eweebz

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

In this episode, we dive into the hidden struggles of high-performance athletes, exploring the personal battles behind the victories and defeats. Our guest, Kyra Christmas, an Olympian and advocate for mental health in sports, shares her journey from a small town south of Calgary to becoming a Tokyo 2020 Olympian and a decorated water polo player around the world. As a top scorer and champion of many international tournaments, Kyra's resume extends to her college achievements, making program history at the University of Pacific. Today, she walks us through her remarkable journey, battling both opponents in the pool and anxiety. A coach and role model, Kyra's vulnerability unfolds in this powerful episode, offering a triumphant story of resilience over adversity. Get ready for an intimate exploration of the mental challenges athletes face behind the scenes.

Instagram: @kyrachristmas

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

In this episode, we dive into the often overlooked challenges that athletes encounter as they transition from the intense world of sports to life beyond the field. Melinda Harrison, a distinguished athlete and coach from London, Ontario, shares insights into this profound journey. Having earned a full athletic scholarship to the University of Michigan and represented Canada in the 1984 Olympic Games, Melinda brings firsthand experience to the table. She not only excelled in her athletic pursuits but also became the first female swimmer inducted into the University of Michigan Athletic Hall of Honor. Now, as an accredited professional coach and author of "Personal Next," Melinda is dedicated to supporting athletes in navigating the complexities of life after sport. Through her innovative online course, "Success after Sport," she provides invaluable guidance to athletes seeking to redefine their sense of self and find fulfillment beyond the confines of their athletic careers. Melinda sheds light on the mental health issues and identity struggles that often accompany this transition, offering a beacon of hope and understanding in a journey full of  uncertainties. This conversation with Melinda Harrison serves as a reminder of the importance of addressing the challenges faced by athletes/coaches as they embark on this transformative chapter of their lives.

In today's episode, we confront the stark reality that sport, often seen as a catalyst for community, can also be a hostile environment for many. Justin Connelly, a passionate advocate for inclusivity in sports and former member of the Calgary Inclusive Hockey Association Board of Directors, joins Sporting Change to shed light on this issue. Despite his love for hockey, Justin's journey has been marked by challenges as a member of the LGBTQ+ community. Through his involvement with the CIHA and organizations like You Can Play, Justin has worked tirelessly to create spaces where LGBTQ+ athletes feel accepted and valued. We dive into the significance of inclusive leagues, exploring the unique support and camaraderie they offer compared to mainstream sports leagues. Justin shares his experiences and discusses the ongoing barriers faced by LGBTQ+ athletes, urging for greater inclusivity and understanding in the world of sports. Join us as we embark on a conversation about the importance of creating safe and welcoming environments for all athletes, regardless of their background or identity.

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

In this episode, we confront the pressing issue of mental health in collegiate athletics, prompted by alarming dropout and suicide rates among NCAA student-athletes. Despite lavish investments in physical facilities, mental health resources for athletes remain sorely neglected. Colton Underwood, former professional football player turned TV personality and advocate, sheds light on this issue, drawing from his own experiences with mental health struggles and public coming out. Through his Colton Underwood Legacy Foundation and their initiatives like the TEAMS Act, Colton aims to bridge this gap, advocating for mental health parity in sports. We explore his journey, from his journey in sport to his current role in mental health advocacy in college sports and beyond. Join us as we dive into Colton's advocacy work, discuss the TEAMS Act's potential impact, and explore how listeners can support the cause, paving the way for a healthier future for student-athletes.

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

Join us for an eye-opening episode as we confront the troubling normalization of interpersonal violence within sports culture. Dr. Sandra Kirby, an educator, activist, and former Olympic rower, leads the discussion, drawing from her extensive career combating harassment, abuse, and homophobia in sports.

Throughout her four-decade-long activism, Dr. Kirby's research and advocacy have reshaped ethical standards in Canadian and global sports. Her pioneering work, including groundbreaking research on sexual harassment among high-performance athletes, has been instrumental in driving positive change.

As we dive into the conversation, Dr. Kirby highlights the dangers of glorifying aggression in sports, shedding light on the often-overlooked dynamics of coaches pushing too hard and parents pushing their children past healthy limits. With her involvement in influential organizations like Canadian Women & Sport and Safe Sport International, Dr. Kirby offers invaluable insights into creating a safer and more inclusive sports environment.

Join us as we challenge the status quo, uncover the risks, and strive to build a sports world where aggression is not celebrated but replaced with support and safety for all athletes.

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

Despite strides towards equality, inequities persist, especially for female coaches and officials. The Tokyo Olympics of 2021 marked a milestone with nearly half of the participants being women, yet challenges remain. Sporting Change proudly presents Marie-Claude Deslieres, a trailblazer in Canadian and global water polo. A 4-time Olympian and now retired referee, her track record is like no other and Marie-Claude has helped pave the way for female officials worldwide. Joining her is Clara Vulpisi, a rising star in water polo and a passionate advocate for women's sports and mental health. Together, they embody resilience and determination, inspiring women to defy odds and excel in sports. From Olympic triumphs to grassroots advocacy, their stories exemplify the spirit of empowerment. Tune in as we celebrate their remarkable journeys and the ongoing fight for gender equality in sports.

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

Today, we are talking about periods!

In fact, a recent global survey reveals concerning trends: half of teenage girls avoid sports due to menstruation-related concerns like embarrassment and fear of leaks. This stigma, coupled with inadequate menstrual education for coaches, creates barriers to women's sports participation. Despite this, 75% of women advocate for open discussions about menstruation in sports. Dr. Tara-Leigh McHugh, a gender equity researcher from the University of Alberta, and her mentee Helene Jørgensen, a biathlete and coach, join us to address this issue. Together, we explore strategies to destigmatize menstruation in sports and ensure that it doesn't hinder girls' participation -  It's time to break the silence and empower women in sports! 

In a world where the media dictates unrealistic body standards, we discuss social norms surrounding body diversity and performance with crossfit games athlete and coach Michele Letendre. Transitioning from a stellar CrossFit career to coaching and entrepreneurship, Letendre will discuss the damaging effects of body image on athletes' physical and mental well-being. Through her own experiences and coaching endeavors, she challenges societal norms and promotes body inclusivity in high-performance sports. From her roots in Dollard-Des-Ormeaux, Montreal, to becoming a six-time CrossFit Games competitor and renowned coach, Letendre's journey exemplifies resilience and determination. Join us as we dive into the complexities of body image, performance, and the evolving landscape of sports culture.

**This episode was recorded prior to the 2023 Crossfit Games. When referring to “this year’s games” we are speaking about the 2022 event.

Please make sure to follow Michele:

IG: @mich_letendre

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

Join us in exploring the dynamic culture of high-performance sports with guest Alayne Hing. In this episode, we peel back the layers of individual values, collective beliefs, and traditions that define this captivating landscape. Athletes navigate not only physical demands but also the pressures, expectations, and unspoken codes of conduct within their sport. Central to our conversation is the crucial concept of psychological safety: a culture where athletes can express thoughts and fears without judgment. Alayne, a Certified Mental Performance Consultant with 17 years of experience, guides us through understanding sports culture and fostering a safer, more inclusive environment. Born in Calgary, her expertise extends over various sports, emphasizing diversity, inclusion, equity, and accessibility. Don't miss this enlightening conversation on reshaping sports culture and enhancing psychological safety.

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

In this episode, we delve into the often overlooked aspect of coaching—managing human behavior and diversity. John Laing, an expert in ADHD and neurodivergence, joins us to shed light on the complexities coaches face in handling the psychological well-being of a diverse range of athletes. As a registered psychologist with extensive experience, John brings a wealth of knowledge, particularly in coaching athletes with ADHD. We explore the unique challenges coaches encounter when dealing with individual needs within large athlete groups. Dr. Laing provides invaluable tools for coaches and parents navigating the intricate journey of youth sports. Whether you're a coach or a parent, join us for an eye-opening discussion on the intersection of sports, leadership, and neurodiversity with John Laing.

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

Get ready for the exciting return of the Sporting Change Podcast: the ultimate sport EDI podcast. Season two has twice as many episodes as season one which means more guests, more content, and more opportunities to make a positive impact in your communities.

Our guests this season include university professors, Olympians, professional athletes, sports psychologists, and more. Subscribe to the Sporting Change Podcast to ensure you never miss an episode. 

Season 2 will explore fresh topics like the political landscape of sports, athlete retirement, masculinity, and MUCH more. Follow us on social media for additional content and valuable insights.

Instagram: @sportingchange

Facebook: Sporting Change Podcast

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Season 2 of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

In today’s episode we're tackling a pressing issue that can have profound repercussions  on both physical and mental well-being: Bullying in sports. We're shining a light on behaviors that often carry significant implications for athletes, coaches, and the sport community as a whole. Bullying not only affects the targeted individuals as athletes, but can have a ripple effect in all areas of their lives.

Our guest today is no stranger to this topic. Joining us again is Lisa Dixon-Wells, founder and executive director of Dare to Care. Lisa will discuss an often overlooked group of athletes who are particularly susceptible to bullying: A group that Lisa and Dare to Care refers to as "provocative athletes", often referred to as neurodiverse athletes. These individuals exhibit characteristics that make them more at risk to becoming targets of bullying. Today, we will explore the common characteristics of these Provocative Athletes, and, more importantly, explore how all members of an organization can work together to understand and support these individuals.

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This episode of the Sporting Change Podcast was Powered by BRP and Dare to Care's "Tackle Bullying in Sports" program.

Simon will discuss the challenges newcomers to Canada face in feeling like they belong and highlight the potential of sports and physical activities to help integrate them. Simon will dive deeper into the power of sports in fostering a sense of community, the barriers newcomers encounter when trying to engage in sports, and the crucial role that sports clubs play in creating an inclusive and welcoming environment. Together, we will aim to shed light on how sports can be a powerful tool for building bridges and inclusivity in Canada.

Simon Barrick (he/him), is a highly accomplished academic and researcher specializing in the sociocultural aspects of sport and physical activity. He recently completed his PhD in Kinesiology at the University of Calgary and now holds a teaching position at the University of Cape Breton, where he contributes to the "Sport and Physical Activity Leadership" and "Community Studies" programs with a focus on sport management.

To follow Simon:

Twitter: @Simonthecurler

Facebook: Simon Barrick

Instagram: @simonthecurler

LinkedIn: Simon Barrick

Extra resources:

In today’s episode, we explores the significant underrepresentation and lack of engagement of Canadians with disabilities in sports, addressing the critical question of how to rectify this stark disparity. to shed light on various facets of this issue, including how to approach athletes with disabilities, the language to use, accommodations for visible and invisible disabilities, and supporting athletes who are born with disabilities or acquire them later in life. Beyond athletes, we also explore the barriers faced by coaches, officials, fans, and family members living with disabilities in the world of sports. To navigate this complex terrain, we are joined by 4-time Paralympian Elisabeth Walker-Young, offering valuable insights and perspectives on the current realities and inequities within this field.

Elisabeth (she/her), a former Team Canada swimmer and 4-time Paralympian living with a congenital disability, has an impressive athletic career with 6 Paralympic medals and numerous national and world records. In 2015, she made history as the 2nd Paralympian and the first female to serve as Chef de Mission for Canada's Paralympic Team, a role that now exclusively goes to Paralympians, partly thanks to her advocacy. Additionally, in 2018, Elisabeth was honored with the Order of Canada. Today, she is a prominent national advocate for equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in sports, holding degrees in Physical Education and Occupational Therapy, as well as expertise as a facilitator for ViaSport's All Youth Matter Inclusion Training. Elisabeth has also launched Inclusive Experiences with Shawna Lawson, a business centered around the intersection of inclusion and innovation, emphasizing lived experiences and authentic engagement. 

To follow Elisabeth on Instagram: 

@A_Little_Bit_Every_Day 

@ewalkyoung 

“Black people can’t swim”... This is a common stereotype that is so widespread in our culture that many people actually believe that it is true. While it is a myth…sadly, there is some degree of truth behind it. Due to the repeated history of segregation, Black communities still struggle to access basic swimming lessons around the world and the reality is, knowing how to swim could be the difference between life and death.

This is a race-based barrier that has existed for generations and in order to address it, we must first understand the history that has contributed to it. Today we welcome Ashleigh Johnson to the podcast to share her story of becoming the first Black female American water polo Olympian, to explore the history of segregation and exclusion in aquatic sports, and to learn how education is the key to breaking down barriers.

To follow Ashleigh:

Conversations surrounding trans-athlete inclusion are more important than ever. Transphobia is a systemic issue and sport is still not a safe, welcoming or inclusive space for trans and non-gender conforming individuals. Unfortunately, sport has a long way to go in this space….however, we are starting to see organizations update their policies and regulations to become more inclusive to the trans and non-gender conforming communities.

Today we are honoured to welcome Dr. William Bridel and Eva Bošnjak: Two leading influencers when it comes to Canadian trans-athlete inclusion.

Reading list/other resources:

In the first of a special two-part episode, Mat joins the podcast as a guest to share his story of being a gay coach and athlete in sport. For gay members of the sports community, homophobia and microaggressions are a reality of their sports experience. In this revealing episode, Mat shares his struggle coming out in the sports community, the impact that “being in the closet” had on his performance and mental health, and his 20+ year journey in sport.

Reading list and Extra Resources:

Have you ever stopped to think about your own beliefs? Where do they come from? Should you explore different points of view? Have you ever stayed quiet in a conversation because you were afraid of saying the wrong thing? Ever been unsure how to talk about an issue; worried you might accidentally offend someone?

In this episode Dr. Daroux-Cole provides insight on these difficult questions as we will explore the power of language, understanding our personal biases and the psychology of change.

Reading List & Extra Resources: