The End of Sport

On this episode of EoS’ Out of Left Field, the hosts launch their 2026 MAGA World Cup coverage with a wide-ranging discussion about our ethical stance on this blood stained tournament, who we are (and are not!) cheering for, and all of the VISA and police state issues that make this one of the worst mega events of recent years. 

Keywords: World Cup Qatar 2022, sportswashing, geopolitics, visas, protests, human rights, FIFA, international sports, boycott, global politics

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the MAGA World Cup Preview

00:58 Political and Ethical Stance on the World Cup

03:06 Personal Perspectives on the World Cup

08:47 Media Coverage and Protest Dynamics

11:08 Geopolitical Context and the Iranian National Team

17:12 Choosing Teams: Who to Support and Who to Boycott

33:14 Cultural Reflections on National Teams

36:47 Critique of Colonialism and Nationalism in Football

38:03 Media Coverage and Visa Issues in the World Cup

53:28 The Impact of Global Politics on Sports

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Join us as we explore Joseph Darda's new book 'Gift and Grit,' which examines how sports have shaped racial and social narratives in America since the civil rights era. Discover insights into the racialization of giftedness, the evolution of college sports, and the complex relationship between fans, athletes, and capitalism.

Keywords: sports, race, social debt, giftedness, college sports, racial formation, capitalism, sports media, athlete exploitation, fantasy sports

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Gift and Grit

05:54 The Intersection of Race, Sports, and Social Debt

11:56 Continuities in Darda's Work: Empire, War, and Sports

17:47 The Evolution of Sports Journalism

24:05 The Complexities of College Sports and Amateurism

35:58 The Evolution of Athletic Departments and Labor Models

44:43 The Concept of Gift and Debt in Athletic Labor

51:08 Roberto Clemente: Race, Identity, and Legacy

57:31 Fantasy Sports and the Changing Dynamics of Fan Relationships

Hosts in this episode: Nathan, Priyansh

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This episode explores the complex issues of gender, testosterone, and fairness in women's sports, featuring insights from Sasha Gollish & Roger Pielke Jr. Sasha Gollish is a competitive elite runner for Team Canada, an engineer with a PhD in civil engineering, and researcher at the University of Toronto’s Mental Health and Physical Activity Research Centre. She is the co-founder of Yellow Running Shoes and an advocate for gender equity in sport. Roger Pielke Jr. is a senior fellow at the American Enterprise Institute, professor emeritus at the University of Colorado Boulder, and author of The Honest Broker. 

Keywords: women's sports, gender equity, testosterone, DSD, intersex athletes, fairness, sports policy, science and ethics, transgender athletes, sports governance

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation

01:49 The Resurgence of Eligibility Testing in Women's Sports

04:35 Challenging Assumptions About Performance Advantages

12:16 The Impact of Testing on Future Generations of Female Athletes

20:29 Analyzing the Findings of the Research Paper

28:06 Contextualizing Performance Data and Its Implications

34:28 Debunking Myths of Advantage in Women's Sports

39:08 The Ethics of Coerced Consent in Sports

41:29 The Consequences of Gender Verification Policies

46:25 Colonialism and Control in Women's Sports

48:04 Trans Athletes vs. DSD: A Distinct Conversation

56:03 Unpacking the Concept of Unfair Male Advantage

01:06:31 Future of Women's Sports and Eligibility Policies

Hosts in this episode: Nathan, Anna, Johanna

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In this episode of the End of Sport podcast, Nathan Kalman-Lamb and Anna Posbergh speak with Brandon Wallace, an assistant professor at Indiana University, about the intersection of sports, social movements, and activism. They explore the evolving landscape of athlete activism, the role of grassroots organizations like Know Your Rights Camp, and the complexities of balancing critique with actionable solutions.

Keywords: social movements, athlete activism, sports media, Know Your Rights Camp, Colin Kaepernick, college sports, structural change, grassroots organizing, critical pedagogy, sports and politics

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Brandon Wallace

05:19 Current Landscape of Athlete Activism

19:40 Beyond A Kneel: The Book Project

24:48 Know Your Rights Camp Overview

32:11 Navigating Corporate Sponsorships and Activism

40:53 The Evolution of Athlete Activism

48:20 Kaepernick's Legacy and Symbolism

59:25 The Intersection of College Sports and Academia

Hosts in this episode: Nathan, Anna

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In this episode of Out of Left Field, Anna announces a HUGE professional change and the group chats about all things “Enhanced Games,” problems with putative “holistic coaching,” the NAACP Statement on Black athletes, and FIFA World Cup.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Personal Updates

02:58 Transitioning from Florida State to Illinois

06:04 Critique of Holistic Coaching in Sports

08:55 The Enhanced Games: A New Era in Sports

11:57 The Capitalist Nature of Sports and Performance

28:08 The Dehumanization of High-Performance Sports

30:28 Health and Safety in Sports

32:08 Racial Capitalism and Athlete Activism

39:44 The World Cup: A Dystopian Event

49:11 Capitalist Contradictions in Sports

Keywords: sports capitalism, Enhanced Games, academic transition, systemic critique, sports activism, racial capitalism, mega-events, sports governance, naacp

Hosts in this episode: Anna, Derek, Nathan

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In this episode of The End of Sport, Nathan and Priyansh speak with Canadian journalist and Associate Professor of Journalism at Carleton University Adrian Harewood. The conversation explores the evolving landscape of journalism, the crises facing media institutions like the CBC, and the complex role of sports amidst global imperialism and societal struggles.

Chapters

01:29 Adrian’s career transition: from journalism to academia

03:47 Differences in newsroom versus academic timelines and demands

06:45 Impact of media critique and educating future journalists

09:51 Crises in journalism: violence, shrinking industry, AI potentialities

12:17 Public trust and government influence on CBC and Canadian public media

16:16 The role of media during the Gaza conflict and censorship issues

22:17 The contradictions of CBC’s role in Canada

25:37 The impact of propaganda and omitted stories in mainstream media

36:04  Challenges of objectivity and bias in journalism

37:03 Personal stories of media censorship and activism

43:29 The history and politics of CBC as a community of diverse voices

45:20 The intersection of sports, capitalism, and morality

46:45 Gambling, scandals, and the corrupting influence of money in sports

61:26 - The art and community roots of sport, especially soccer

65:46 - The collective and transformative power of team sports

70:11 - Nostalgia and the human stories behind elite tennis

72:43 - The global significance of football and moments of unity

77:11 - The upcoming FIFA World Cup in a geopolitical context

80:24 - Reflecting on historical resistance in sports and contemporary conflicts

87:11 - The potential of mega-events like the World Cup for political alliances

Keywords: CBC, journalism, media integrity, journalism crisis, censorship, FIFA World Cup, genocide, Gaza, Palestine

Hosts in this episode: Priyansh and Nathan

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In this episode, Anna and Derek chat with Dr. CJ Jones about the intersections of gender, sports, and political mobilization. We dive into how trans visibility, legislative trends, and anti-gender movements shape the realities of athletes and institutions today.

Keywords: Trans Athletes, Anti-Gender Politics, Gender Critical Feminism, Testosterone Myths, Trans Inclusion, Sports Legislation, Populism and Neoliberalism, Trans Visibility, T-talk, Fascist Movements

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and overview of CJ Jones’s work on gender and sports

06:44  How trans embodiment and normative gender assumptions shape sports policies

09:46  The role of "T-talk" and myths around testosterone in exclusionary discourses

12:14  How scientific discourses naturalize myths about trans bodies

15:47  The discourse linking testosterone to unfair athletic advantage

18:06 Deconstructing the myth of "unfair advantage" in trans sports debates

25:48 The influence of anti-gender politics and populism globally

30:25 How anti-trans feminism has evolved and its connection to conservative movements

42:53 The role of gender critical feminism and its strategic framing

50:27 Biofeminism as a reproductive and biological essentialist framework

55:25 Rhetorical strategies: nonpartisanship and depoliticization of gender issues

58:15 Moving beyond binary pro and anti frameworks for a nuanced understanding

61:24 The role of contradictions and hypocrisies in liberal claims of inclusion

64:36 The importance of precise analysis over broad binaries in gender politics

68:34 The disparities in perceptions of sports like chess versus powerlifting in trans debates

73:16 The campus climate at San Jose State amidst political and legal attacks

77:29 - The global proliferation of anti-gender and anti-trans movements

Hosts in this episode: Anna Posbergh, Derek Silva

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This episode features longtime friend-of-the-show Jules Boykoff discussing the politics of sports, sportswashing, and the implications of mega-events like the World Cup. A month out of the Men’s World Cup, Jules, Nathan and Priyansh explore how sports are used for political and economic agendas, the role of FIFA and IOC, and the social impact of world football.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the End of Sport Podcast

01:15 Exploring Sports Washing and Mega Events

04:20 The Political Economy of Sports Washing

08:45 Gianni Infantino and the FIFA Greed Machine

11:38 The Role of Saudi Arabia in Sports Washing

20:33 Kicking: A Memoir on Football and Politics

23:16 Navigating Power Corridors in Sports

31:53 The Cultural Depth of Football

39:00 Football as the Beautiful Game

51:12 Soccer's Evolution in the United States

57:05 Political Organizing and the Upcoming World Cup

Keywords: sports washing, FIFA, World Cup, mega-events, politics of sport, social activism, sports activism, global football, sports capitalism, sports and politics

Resources:

Kicking by Jules Boykoff - https://www.dukeupress.edu/kicking

Red Card: The 2026 World Cup, Sports Washing, and FIFA Greed Machine by Jules Boykoff - https://www.orbooks.com/catalog/red-card

Jules Boykoff's academic work - https://julesboykoff.com

Hosts in this episode: Priyansh and Nathan Kalman-Lamb

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Red Sullivan, a student and athlete at the University of Connecticut, shares her experiences with trans rights, sports policies, and the interconnectedness of social issues. In March, 2025, Red was competing at a regional tournament called the Cherry Blossom Open at the University of Maryland, when at the start of one of her matches with 31-year-old Stephanie Turner, Red’s opponent removed her mask, took a knee and declined participate against Red, who was 19 at the time, citing mutual respect but noting “this is a women's event. I'm a woman and you're a man. I will not fence you.” This conversation traverses the intricate politics of that event but also the broader anti-trans movement. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context of the Incident

02:49 Reflections on the Incident and Media Response

06:01 Evolving Comfort with Public Discourse

09:12 Shifts in Sports Policies and Their Implications

12:13 Understanding Advantages in Fencing

14:48 The Intersection of Class and Athlete Abuse

18:12 The Broader Implications of Trans Athletes in Sports

35:37 The Silence of Athlete Abuse

46:13 Political Education and Activism in Sports

56:12 The Politics of Exclusion in Sports

Keywords: trans athletes, sports policy, discrimination, social justice, NCAA, USA Fencing, IOC, athlete abuse, class disparities, political activism

Hosts in this episode: Priyansh, Anna Posbergh

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In this episode, Anna and Johanna sit down with Reo Eveleth to discuss the complex history and ethics of sex testing in elite sports, exploring how policies are manufactured and their impact on athletes' human rights. The conversation covers the evolution of testing methods, institutional biases, and the importance of humanizing athletes' stories.

Reo Eveleth is a writer, producer, and artist who explores the relationship between humans and science and technology, particularly why people make the choices they do and how those choices move us closer or further away from a better future. Most recently, Reo wrote, reported, and hosted the Tested podcast, which traced the 100-year history of sex testing in elite sports. Tested received three Sports Podcasting Awards, an Ambie for Best Documentary, a National Headliner Award, a GRAND prize at the New York Festivals, and a nomination for a Peabody Award, and was named a Best Podcast of 2024 by Apple, Vulture, and the New York Times. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

03:04 Reo's Background and Journey to Science Journalism

06:00 Podcasting Process and Idea Generation

10:00 Overview of the Tested Podcast

10:48 The Genesis of the Tested Podcast

14:56 Interview Process and Building Trust with Athletes

23:06 The Impact of Sex Testing on Athletes

24:49 The Evolution of Sex Testing in Sports

30:09 The IOC's New Policy on Sex Testing

34:04 Critique of the IOC's Testing Methods

37:18 The Illusion of Scientific Certainty

39:30 The Burden on Athletes

45:23 ‘Fairness’ and ‘Protection’ in Sports

50:18 The Role of Ethics in Sports Policy

52:23 The Court of Arbitration for Sport

57:11 Consent and Privacy Issues in Testing

01:06:11 Impact on Collegiate Sports

Keywords: sex testing, elite sports, human rights, sports policy, intersex athletes, CAS, ethics, sports history, gender categories, athlete advocacy

Hosts in this episode: Anna Posbergh & Johanna Mellis

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In this episode, Priyansh and Anna sit down with Gerald Horne and Anthony Ballas to explore US imperialism and the complex intersections of boxing, race, and culture. The conversation focuses on the historical and contemporary significance of boxing as a reflection of societal power dynamics, racial fantasies, and global politics.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation

02:38 Jake Paul and the State of Boxing

06:51 Racial Hauntings in Boxing History

12:01 Parallels Between Sports and Imperialism

20:14 American Imperial Decline

26:15 The Crisis of Professional Boxing

29:21 The Prophetic Nature of Boxing and Society

30:02 Exploring Racism and Politics in Boxing

34:12 Boxing as a Metaphor for Imperialism

39:11 Boxing, Trumpism, and Cultural Reflections

41:23 Gentrification of Boxing: Class, Race, and Gender Dynamics

48:02 Global Perspectives: Boxing Beyond the US

54:46 International Boxing and Geopolitical Contexts

Keywords: boxing, race, imperialism, US empire, sports culture, Gerald Horne, Anthony Ballas, Jake Paul, farcical spectacles, gentrification of gyms

Hosts in this episode: Anna Posbergh, Priyansh

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In this episode, Nathan sits down with Dr. Charisse Burden-Stelly to talk about the so-called Racial Capitalism ‘debate’ that has recently taken academic Twitter by storm. 

Charisse Burden-Stelly is Associate Professor of African American Studies at Wayne State University and author, among many many other things, of Black Scare/Red Scare: Theorizing Capitalist Racism in the United States (University of Chicago Press, 2023), co-author of W.E.B. Du Bois: A Life in American History (ABC-CLIO, 2019), and the terrific 2020 article in Monthly Review, “Modern US Racial Capitalism: Some Theoretical Insights.”

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Charisse Burden-Stelly and the debate over racial capitalism

03:03 Marx’s chapter on primitive accumulation and race

04:39 Racial capitalism as an extension of primitive accumulation

07:24 Robinson’s critique of race before capitalism

09:23 Robinson’s challenge to Marx on racial continuities in feudalism

12:16 Robinson's contributions to resistance and political philosophy

15:16 Critiques of Robinson: essentialism and American exceptionalism

18:15 The danger of race reductionism in critiques of racial capitalism

21:17 The significance of W.E.B. Du Bois and other theorists

23:32 Imperialism’s central role in understanding racial capitalism

36:43 Connection to fascism, US racial grievance, and global imperialist project

44:36 The importance of imperialism over racial capitalism in understanding global relations

45:24 The primary contradiction of US imperialism as foundational to global capitalism

Keywords: Racial capitalism, essentialism, race, racism, racial essentialism, exploitation, imperialism, colonialism, US imperialism 

Hosts in this episode: Nathan Kalman-Lamb

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This episode of The End of Sport features Laleh Khalili, a professor of Gulf studies, discussing the strategic importance of the Strait of Hormuz, the global shipping crisis, and the intersection of geopolitics and sports amid ongoing conflicts. We explore the history of key maritime chokepoints, the impact of war on seafarers, and how sports serve as a form of resistance and cultural identity.

In this episode of The End of Sport podcast, Johanna, Nathan, and Derek engage in a deep discussion with Dr. Lauren Beasley about the complexities of sports psychology, mental health, and the systemic issues affecting athletes. We talk at length about the focus on performance in sports psychology, the neoliberal approach to mental health, and the stigma surrounding mental health in high-performance sports. The conversation also touches on the ethical dilemmas faced by mental health professionals in sports, the potential role of social work, and the impact of political issues on athletes' mental health. 

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Context Setting

01:51 Critique of Sports Psychology

05:59 Distinction Between Sports Psychology and Clinical Mental Health

10:47 The Individualism of Mental Health in Sports

12:19 Corporate Mental Health Campaigns in Sports

16:59 The Role of Athletes in Mental Health Advocacy

22:22 Stigma Surrounding Mental Health in Sports

27:41 Epidemic of Mental Health Crises Among Athletes

31:44 Conflicts of Interest in Sports Psychology Services

33:18 Understanding Licensure in Sports Psychology

36:21 Confidentiality and Consent in Athletic Settings

39:39 The Role of Coaches and Mental Health Professionals

42:51 Navigating Ethical Dilemmas in Sports Mental Health

44:49 The Case Management Model in Social Work

49:56 Critiques of Social Work and Psychology in Sports

50:59 Reevaluating Language in Sports Psychology

56:30 The Impact of Performance-Centric Mental Health

01:01:28 The Intersection of Sports Psychology and Global Issues

Keywords: sports psychology, mental health, athletes, performance, neoliberalism, stigma, social work, ethical issues, mental health campaigns, high performance sport

Hosts in this episode: Nathan Kalman-Lamb, Johanna Mellis, and Derek Silva

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In this episode, anthropologist and scholar Hannah Borenstein shares an insider’s view of the social, political, and labor dynamics that shape Ethiopian long-distance runners. We explore how community, environment, and systemic inequalities influence athletic success, challenging stereotypes rooted in genetics and race. This conversation shines a light on the intertwined worlds of sport, politics, and labor in Ethiopia.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction & Hannah Borenstein's Background 

07:03 Political and Social Dynamics in Ethiopia 

17:42 Gender, Surveillance, and Athlete Activism 

28:34 Ethiopian Running: Labor and Exploitation 

49:16 Challenges and Narratives in Sports 

65:46 Building Trust and Ethnographic Insights 

82:52 Final Reflections and Storytelling

Keywords: Running, Anthropology, Hannah Borenstein, Long-Distance Running, Ethiopian Athletes, Sports Politics, Gender Dynamics, Ethnographic Research, Athletic Success, Ethiopia

Hosts in this episode: Anna Posbergh, Priyansh, Nathan Kalman-Lamb

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This episode features a deep dive into the intersection of sports, politics, and social justice, with Irish basketball player Rebecca O'Keefe. Topics include March Madness, NCAA expansion, athlete rights, gender equality in sports, and global human rights issues.

Chapters

00:00 Trump's Genocidal Post

02:50 The Global Appeal of March Madness

06:01 NCAA Tournament Expansion: A Double-Edged Sword

09:03 Coaching Rivalries and Emotional Responses

12:06 The Impact of Donald Trump's Executive Order on College Sports

23:55 The Future of College Athletes: Rights and Responsibilities

24:41 The Need for Unionization in Sports

27:58 WNBA's Collective Bargaining Agreement

33:58 Activism and Athlete Responsibility

43:01 Political Implications of the World Cup

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In this episode of the End of Sport podcast, Anna Posbergh and Derek Silva sit down with Grace McKenzie, a transgender athlete and advocate for inclusion in sports. They discuss the current landscape of trans athlete inclusion, the implications of recent policy shifts by the IOC, and the personal experiences of Grace in women's rugby. The conversation highlights the importance of dialogue, the work of organizations like Sport and Rights Alliance, and the urgent need for advocacy in the face of rising anti-trans legislation. Grace emphasizes the significance of sharing trans stories and the collective responsibility to create inclusive spaces in sports.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Trans Athlete Inclusion

01:05 Current Landscape of Trans Athlete Inclusion

03:15 The IOC's Policy Shift and Its Implications

06:30 Experiences in Women's Rugby

16:38 The Birth of Rugby for All

22:17 The Role of Dialogue in Advocacy

48:21 The Work of Sport and Rights Alliance

54:04 Why Trans Athletes and Why Now?

01:00:34 Looking to the Future of Trans Inclusion in Sports

trans athletes, inclusion, sports, Rugby for All, IOC policy, advocacy, gender identity, women's rugby, Sport and Rights Alliance, anti-trans legislation

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Abubaker Abed speaks about FIFA and European football's double standards regarding Israel, his reporting on the genocide in Gaza, and the importance of boycotting the 2026 World Cup.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Credibility

01:12 Iran's Potential Boycott and US Match Relocation

02:58 US Policies and Impact on Palestinian Athletes

04:34 Iran's Goodwill Gestures and US Political Interference

05:45 FIFA's Obligation to Ensure Player Safety

06:14 Israel's War Crimes and FIFA's Inaction

07:42 Comparison of Sanctions: Russia vs. Israel

08:39 Iran's Right to Boycott and FIFA's Refusal

09:06 Palestinian Football and FIFA's Past Decisions

10:05 Hypocrisy in FIFA's Treatment of Palestine and Israel

11:02 FIFA's Corruption and Media Complicity

12:34 FIFA's Double Standards and Israel's Segregation

12:59 Infantino's Leadership and FIFA's Future

14:23 Israeli Military Attacks on Palestinian Sports Facilities

15:42 Destruction of Gaza's Sports Infrastructure

16:42 Mainstream Media's Silence on Palestinian Sports

17:10 Football Legends and Political Silence

18:37 Global Solidarity Movements and Their Absence for Gaza

19:36 Football Stars and Their Silence on Palestine

20:58 Sportswashing and Political Complicity of Players

22:19 Personal Impact of Conflict on Abubakar's Love for Football

24:31 Growing Movement to Boycott the World Cup

24:59 Voting with Feet: How Fans Can Protest

26:24 Abubakar's Shift from Football to Political Activism

33:05 The Destruction of Gaza's Sports Community

42:19 Palestinian Sports as Resistance and Identity

45:49 The Tragedy of Gaza's Sports Infrastructure

48:15 FIFA's Complicity and International Hypocrisy

51:42 The Role of Media and Journalistic Integrity

01:02:11 The Silence of Western Media and Athletes

01:08:45 Current Situation in Gaza and Future Outlook

01:12:48 Hope and Resistance in Gaza

Gaza, football, FIFA, Palestine, sportswashing, human rights, geopolitics, boycott, genocide, sports activism

Hosts: Nathan Kaman-Lamb, Priyansh, Anna Posbergh, Johanna Mellis, and Derek Silva

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This episode of OLF discusses the latest news in sports, including FIFA's sportswashing "sanction" of Israel, sports gambling, the new WNBPA collective agreement, and latest in college sports.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Listener Engagement

03:05 The Impact of Gambling in Sports

06:04 FIFA's Controversial Rulings

09:09 Legislation and Immigration Concerns at the World Cup

11:57 WNBA Collective Bargaining Agreement

15:01 Unionization and Labor Rights in Sports

18:01 Iowa State Gymnastics Program Controversy

20:51 Sexual Assault and Accountability in Sports

23:43 NFLPA Leadership Changes and Union Challenges

27:12 The State of College Gymnastics

keywords: sports media, gambling, FIFA, labor rights, women's sports, college athletics, social justice, sportswashing, athlete conditions

Hosts: Nathan Kaman-Lamb, Priyansh, Anna Posbergh, Johanna Mellis, and Derek Silva

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In this episode, Adam Johnson joins us to explore the pervasive influence of sports gambling on media, politics, and our social fabric. We delve into how betting practices have seeped into every aspect of life, the systemic issues they create, and potential avenues for regulation.

Chapters

00:00 What is Sports Gambling?

06:24 Social Harms of Gambling

11:18 Gambling Ads

22:52 Athlete Exploitation

36:45 Need for Regulation

39:14 Fan Abuse and Exploitation

52:02 Athlete Labor Struggles 

keywords: sports gambling, gambling, betting, sports betting

Hosts: Nathan Kaman-Lamb, Priyansh, Anna Posbergh, Johanna Mellis, and Derek Silva

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In this episode of the End of Sports, Johanna and Anna are joined by the wonderful and brilliant Anna Baeth, Ellie Roscher, and Chris Mosier, to discuss the intersection of sports, gender identity, and social justice. They explore myths surrounding trans athletes, the political landscape, and the importance of joy, embodiment, and advocacy in sport.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the episode and the significance of the book "Fair Game" 

05:00 How numbers and legislation are fabricated or misrepresented 

15:00 The interconnectedness of trans issues with reproductive rights and colonialism 

25:00 Personal motivations for advocacy and research by the authors 

35:00 Connecting joy and embodiment as acts of resistance and liberation 

45:00 Embracing the joy of athleticism and the power of play

55:00 Cultivating joy amid systemic attacks through connections and embodied play 

66:00 Closing remarks on the power of joy, representation, and collective liberation in sport

Keywords 

Trans Athletes, Gender Identity, Social Justice, Sports Advocacy, Bodily Autonomy, Inclusive Policies, Joy in Sports

Hosts: Nathan Kaman-Lamb, Priyansh, Anna Posbergh, Johanna Mellis, and Derek Silva

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In this episode of EoS' Out of Left Field, Anna, Derek, Nathan, and Johanna explore the complex intersections of geopolitics, sports, and governance, focusing on recent US and Israeli actions in Iran, the politicization of international sports, and the systemic issues within college athletics.

Chapters

02:05 US and Israel's Military Actions in Iran

03:59 Environmental and Humanitarian Consequences of Bombing

05:53 Sports as a Political Tool: Stadium Bombings and Athlete Victims

08:48 Governance Failures in the Paralympics and Olympics

11:48 The Russian and Belarusian Participation Controversy

15:10 International Federations and Legal Precedents

18:09 The US College Sports System and Capitalist Exploitation

21:05 The Role of Media and Public Perception in Sports Politics

27:10 The Future of International Sports Governance

29:54 Discussions on Disability Sports and Human Rights

33:08 The Intersection of Sports, Imperialism, and Capitalism

35:48 Reimagining Sports Models: Norway and Beyond

42:00 The Hypocrisy of International Sports Organizations

45:07 The Commercialization and Exploitation of Sports

51:04 Out of Left Field Questions

geopolitics, sports governance, Iran conflict, international sports sanctions, Paralympics, Olympic movement, NCAA, sports activism, global sports politics

Hosts: Nathan Kaman-Lamb, Priyansh, Anna Posbergh, Johanna Mellis, and Derek Silva

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In this episode, Nathan and Priyansh speak with Vijay Prashad to discuss the complex political and economic situation in Cuba, particularly in light of U.S. imperialism. They explore the revolutionary project of the Cuban state, the current humanitarian crisis, and the role of sports in Cuban society. The conversation also touches on the nature of fandom, alienation, and the craft of sports, highlighting the importance of play and the human experience in athletic environments.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to the Conversation on Cuba

02:20 Historical Context of the Cuban Revolution

07:26 Current Political and Economic Situation in Cuba

12:07 Cuba's Unique Approach to Sports

20:28 The Impact of Capitalism on Sports

25:59 Cuban Boxing and Its Evolution

32:12 The Love of the People vs. Money in Sports

34:08 The Stories Behind Athletes and Their Craft

39:11 Injuries, Play, and the Essence of Sports

45:50 The Commodification of Play vs. Craft

49:01 Fandom, Alienation, and Community in Sports

keywords

Cuba, sports, imperialism, revolution, health, commodification, fandom, political economy, Vijay Prashad, social justice

Hosts: Nathan Kaman-Lamb, Priyansh, Anna Posbergh, Johanna Mellis, and Derek Silva

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In this episode, Nikhil Pal Singh, Professor of Social and Cultural Analysis at NYU, explores the concept of Homeland Empire -- how archaic precedents and institutional expansions shape the current American project of power, and how this collapse impacts global and domestic politics, including the world of sports.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Homeland Empire

12:07 The Intersection of Sport and Politics

21:11 The Collapse of the Rules-Based International Order

26:25 Spectacle and Hegemony

32:11 The Role of Israel in American Politics

40:30 Global Fascism and Spectacle

48:25 China's Rise and American Strategy

Homeland Empire, Trump, sports, politics, international order, MAGA, China

Hosts: Nathan Kaman-Lamb, Priyansh, Anna Posbergh, Johanna Mellis, and Derek Silva

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In this episode (+BONUS interview) of the End of Sport, Nathan Kalman-Lamb and Priyansh chat with Alexander Aviña about the intersection of Mexican football, politics, and the upcoming FIFA Men's World Cup. The hosts discuss the cultural significance of events like the Super Bowl halftime show, the historical context of Mexico's World Cup hosting, and the political dynamics of NAFTA. They delve into the rise of AMLO and the Morena party, the influence of Televisa in Mexican sports, and the Zapatistas' anti-capitalist approach to football. The discussion also highlights the contradictions in US immigration policies and the potential for the World Cup to serve as a platform for political activism.

NOTE: The first part of the podcast was recorded as a follow-up after where Alex Aviña discusses the recent military operation in Mexico targeting the leader of the Cartel Jalisco Nueva Generación (CJNG), El Mencho. The operation led to significant violence across multiple states, raising questions about the effectiveness of the U.S. and Mexican government's strategies against drug cartels. No better person to talk to about this.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction and Guest Introduction

01:51 Super Bowl Halftime Show Discussion

04:46 Mexican Football and World Cup History

07:18 NAFTA and US-Mexico Relations

12:39 Contradictions in US Policies

20:15 Political Dynamics in North America

32:23 AMLO and the Rise of Morena

40:43 Club America and Televisa's Influence

54:01 Zapatistas and Anti-Capitalist Football

01:01:44 World Cup as a Political Tool

Mexico, World Cup, football, AMLO, NAFTA, Zapatistas, politics, Super Bowl, Televisa, Club America

Hosts: Nathan Kaman-Lamb, Priyansh, Anna Posbergh, Johanna Mellis, and Derek Silva

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In this episode of the End of Sport podcast, host Nathan Kalman-Lamb, Derek Silva and Priyansh speak with activist and author Harsha Walia on the intricate connections between migration, racial capitalism, and the role of sports mega events in normalizing surveillance and militarization. Walia discusses the implications of Canada's immigration policies, the legacy of past sporting events, and the rise of anti-migrant violence, while also reflecting on the current political climate and the responses from athletes and the public. 

migration, racial capitalism, surveillance, sports events, Canada, anti-migrant violence, imperialism, fascism, activism, border politics

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Harsha Walia and Migration Issues

01:45 Migration and Racial Capitalism

05:36 The Role of Sports Mega Events in Surveillance

08:03 Vancouver's Security Legacy and Militarization

13:44 Imperial Boomerang and Colonialism

16:54 Canada's Immigration Policies and Anti-Migrant Violence

23:43 Athletes' Responses to Current Events and Fascism

Hosts: Nathan Kaman-Lamb, Priyansh, Anna Posbergh, Johanna Mellis, and Derek Silva

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In this episode of the End of Sport Podcast, Nathan Kalman-Lamb and Priyansh talk with Ahmer Naqvi to explore the complexities of cricket, particularly focusing on the T20 format, the historical and political dynamics of the India-Pakistan rivalry, and the implications of recent boycotts. They discuss the colonial roots of cricket, the impact of media and broadcasting in ongoing dispossession, and the future challenges facing the sport, especially in light of changing economic conditions and political landscapes.

Cricket, T20, India, Pakistan, Rivalry, Boycott, ICC, Politics, Culture, Sports

Hosts: Nathan Kaman-Lamb, Priyansh, Anna Posbergh, Johanna Mellis, and Derek Silva

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In this episode of Out of Left Field, all of us discuss a range of topics including Bad Bunny's impactful Super Bowl halftime performance, the political activism of Olympic athletes, critiques of the IOC, the pressures faced by elite athletes like Lindsey Vonn, and the implications of Israeli involvement in sports. We also ask the important question: is a hot dog a sandwich?Bad Bunny, Super Bowl, Olympic athletes, political activism, IOC, Lindsey Vonn, Israel, sports, cultural critique, hot dog sandwich debateHosts: Derek Silva, Anna Posbergh, Priyansh, Johanna Mellis & Nathan Kalman-Lamb

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In this episode, Anna Posbergh and Johanna Mellis engage with experts Ryan Storr and Kristi Allain to discuss the cultural significance of the show 'Heated Rivalry.' They explore its impact on LGBTQ representation in sports, the complexities of identity, and the tensions between masculinity and inclusion in hockey culture. The conversation delves into key moments from the show that resonate with audiences, the challenges of navigating diverse identities, and the implications of nationalism in queer representation. The discussion also touches on the future of the show and its potential to influence cultural norms in sports.

Heated Rivalry, LGBTQ, Hockey Culture, Masculinity, Nationalism, Inclusion, Sports, Identity, Queer Representation, Fan Culture

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In this episode, the hosts engage with Jules Boykoff to discuss the upcoming Winter Olympics in Milan-Cortina, exploring the political implications, the role of the IOC, and the challenges of sustainability. They delve into the concept of sportswashing, the impact of geopolitical tensions on athletes, and the growing activism against the Olympics. The conversation highlights the importance of worker safety in Olympic construction and the potential legacy of the games in fostering a more engaged activist community.

Winter Olympics, political context, Kirsty Coventry, Olympic Truce, geopolitical implications, worker safety, sportswashing, activism, environmental concerns, Milan-Cortina legacy

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In this episode, Anna and Nathan have the pleasure of talking to former USC basketball star McKenzie Forbes and Athletes Unlimited player about Gaza, Trumpist America, gambling, the Caitlin Clark Effect, and much more.

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Support & Follow The End of Sport

In the second episode of Out of Left Field, the hosts discuss the intersection of sports, labor, and politics, particularly in light of recent events in Minneapolis. The conversation also delves into international sports dynamics, focusing on the Ambani family's influence in Indian sports and the political implications of cricket exclusions. After a discussion of anti-trans policies at the IOC level. the episode concludes with a light-hearted audience engagement segment about pizza preferences.

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We are joined by former sports journalist and current U of T PhD candidate Priyansh to discuss why Trump was gifted the absurd FIFA Peace Prize and how the FIFA World Cup will unfold against the backdrop of US depravity at home and abroad. In this conversation we both interrogate the political economy of megaevents more broadly and try to parse the current geopolitical landscape. Worth your time.

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Welcome to the very first installment of Out of Left Field. In this debut segment, we cut through the noise of the 2026 political landscape to examine the machinery of state violence and the complicity of the "protect women's sports" movement. We are also thrilled to introduce a new voice to the End of Sport team!

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We are returning to regular programming as of January 2026!

In this episode of The End of Sport, Nathan and Derek sit down with Dr. Tracie Canada, Andrew W. Mellon Assistant Professor of Cultural Anthropology and Director of The HEARTS Lab at Duke University, to discuss her new book Tackling the Everyday: Race and Nation in Big-Time College Football (University of California Press). A decade in the making, this Black feminist analysis confronts how college football exploits and harms the young Black men who dominate rosters across the United States. While universities and coaches lean on the “football family” myth, Dr. Canada shows how a genuine brotherhood among Black players emerges alongside the tireless care of mothers who support their sons on and off the field. This conversation explores the deep inequalities of the sport, the forms of care that resist them, and what Tackling the Everyday contributes to ongoing debates about race, exploitation, and the future of college football.