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:

To follow Eva:

www.linkedin.com/in/ehbosnjak

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:

If you or someone you know is struggling with mental health issues, please look at the following links:

How to Follow Mathieu:

Instagram: @mathieucons

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/mathieu-constantin-mc5/

In the second half of this special two-part episode, Mat Constantin dives deeper into his mental health journey and the challenges he faced growing up gay in a heteronormative society. Lyle Brooks, founder of Men4More, guides us through Mat’s never before told story through the lens of mental health. With great courage, Mat shares his extreme highs and devastating lows to help listeners gain perspective on what is often experienced, yet seldom discussed, in the mental health journey of a gay man in today’s society.

Reading list and Extra Resources:

The Velvet Rage: Overcoming the Pain of Growing Up Gay in a Straight Man's World

By Alan Downs Ph. D.

How to Follow Lyle:

Instagram: @lyfeoflyle_

Instagram: @men4more

Facebook: @men4more

By the age of 13, 7 out of 10 athletes in North America have quit organized sports. Many of these athletes say that the continuous yelling and criticism from coaches and parents is the number one reason why they quit the sports they once loved. The ‘fun’ in sport has been replaced by a ‘win at all cost’ attitude. Sadly, this shift in approach has led to increased dropout rates, childhood obesity, and mental health issues in youth.

Bullying in sports is a systemic issue that impacts athletes, teams, and sport clubs at all levels. Whether it’s players, coaches, parents or even fans, disrespectful behavior has become a growing concern in sport communities.

Join Lisa Dixon Wells, founder of Dare to Care, as we explore the crippling impacts of bullying in sport and what can be done to change it.

Reading List and Extra Resources:

www.daretocare.ca

To Follow Lisa:

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/daretocare

Instagram and Twitter:  @daretocare2

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lisadixonwells/

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:

To follow Dr. Lisa Daroux-Cole:

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/lisa-daroux-cole-3b445810a

Leadership is defined as the ability for an individual, group or organization to "lead", influence or guide others. At Sporting Change we see coaches, board members, officials, teammates, captains, parents, and even fans as community leaders.

Many of our listeners take on leadership roles and have the power to influence the people around them. For that reason the first Sporting Change episode focuses on the power of positive leadership in the world of diversity, equity and inclusion.

We are extremely fortunate to have one of the first openly gay Olympic Champions in the world and leadership expert Mark Tewksbury joining the podcast.

Reading list and Extra Resources:

Mindset: The New Psychology of Success - How we can learn to fulfill our potential

Carol S. Dweck Ph.D.

To follow Mark:

Instagram: @MarkTewks

Twitter: @MarkTewks

Website: https://thegreattraits.com/

Sporting Change is the ultimate sports podcast to stay relevant and educated when it comes to Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion. Tune in with Olympic champions, professional athletes, university professors, coaches, officials and influencers as we explore many important topics. During the episodes, some guests will share their lived experiences to help humanize issues, while others will be asked the hard questions as we engage in eye-opening DEI conversations. Most importantly, each episode will provide listeners with tools to help create change in their local communities.