On today’s episode of Who Is with Ross Oteri, Vanessa Schaefer (she/her) sits down with Ross (he/him) to talk Olympic hockey, family influence, and the thrill of competition. A bronze medalist with Switzerland, Vanessa dives into how her dad and brothers shaped her passion for the sport—serving as everything from coach to chauffeur to proud sideline hypeman. She walks Ross through the pressure of playing in front of roaring crowds, the intensity of the Olympic process, and the primal rhythm of chasing your “inner beast.” They also get real about post-Olympic celebrations… and the infamous mysteries of the Olympic Village.

Wrapping up the podcast, Maydha and Ross talk about sports and the Olympics. A quenched and hungry Maydha is shocked to find out about some random sports facts, and some specifically about Olympic sports. Meanwhile, Ross talks about all the Olympians he could’ve been the Black version of. 

Do you have a story to share? Do you have a question or need advice? You, too, may be featured on the show! DM @whoiswthrossoteri on Instagram or email [email protected]

Check out Suburban on Instagram while you’re at it @suburban.tv

Contact: 

Vanessa Schaefer - @vanessaschaefer__ 

Ross Oteri - @rossoteri | [email protected] 

Maydha Sood - @maydhasood 

Credits: 

Executive producers: Maydha Sood and Ross Oteri 

Editor: Ross Oteri

Graphic designer: Heath Johnson 

Intro, Transition, and Outro theme: S. Henry