117. Empowering Female Athletes with Flame Bearers Founder Jamie Mittelman

Author: Kelly Lutz
Published: Wed 17 Apr 2024
Episode Link: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/coaching-klutz/episodes/117--Empowering-Female-Athletes-with-Flame-Bearers-Founder-Jamie-Mittelman-e2ieehq

This episode features Jamie Mittelman, the founder of Flame Bearers, a global storytelling platform celebrating the achievements of women Olympians and Paralympians.

We discuss Jamie's journey, from her athletic background to her experiences at Harvard that led to the creation of Flame Bearers.

We then delve into the importance of storytelling in sports, particularly for women and those with physical disabilities, who have historically received less media coverage.

Jamie shares insights into the selection process for featured athletes, the values driving Flame Bearers, and the impact of her work, including future plans for coverage of the Paris Olympics and Paralympics.

The conversation also touches on the representation of athletes in media, the balance between athletes' responsibilities and media coverage, and the personal motivations behind Jamie's commitment to empowering female athletes through Flame Bearers.

00:00 Introduction to the Episode and Guest Jamie Mittelman

01:23 Jamie’s Background and the Genesis of Flame Bearers

02:59 The Impact of Sports and the Olympic Dream

08:44 The Mission and Vision of Flame Bearers

15:59 Expanding Flame Bearers' Scope and Inclusivity

19:42 Choosing Stories and Athletes for Flame Bearers

22:38 Jamie's Favorite Story and Upcoming Interview

24:31 The Power of Staying True to Oneself: Caster Semenya's Story

25:06 Launching the Upcoming Season

25:27 Olympic Year Excitement and Climbing Sport Spotlight

27:46 Discovering New Sports: The Fascination with Modern Pentathlon

29:06 The Unique Challenges of Spectating and Commentating in Sports