Sportly

Sportly
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Uninterrupted listening from all our shows

US$3.99/mo or US$34.99/yr after trial

Sportly by Immigrantly Media takes you beyond the scoreboard to uncover the captivating stories, hidden histories, and rich cultural legacies that make sports truly unforgettable. Hosted by Emmy-winning investigative journalist Kavitha A. Davidson, Sportly brings listeners a fresh perspective on sports each week—did you know that the oldest international cricket rivalry is between the United States and Canada? Or that the NBA’s first minority player was of Asian descent? With deep dives into iconic moments, lesser-known rivalries, and the fascinating evolution of traditions like the national anthem in American sports, Sportly is here to expand your love of the game. Each episode explores stories that transcend stats, celebrating the diversity of players, the cultures they represent, and the unique events that shape our favorite sports. Tune in every Monday for thought-provoking insights, heartwarming anecdotes, and thrilling highlights that make you see the games you love in a whole new way. Sportly is the podcast companion for your commute, workout, or downtime—bringing sports to life wherever you listen. Host: Kavitha A. Davidson Producer: Saadia Khan & Shei Yu Content Writers: Michaela Strauther & Kavitha A. Davidson, Jonathan Hazel & Kavitha A Davidson Sound Design & Content Editor: Paroma Chakravarty Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson Other Music: Epidemic Sound Cover Art Design: Sarah DiMichele Follow us on IG @immigrantlymedia Twitter @Immigrantly_pod TikTok @Immigrantlypodcast Subscribe to our Patreon Sportly is an Immigrantly Media Production For advertising inquiries, please email at [email protected]

  1. 1 DAY AGO

    Ping Pong Diplomacy: The Game That Changed the World

    What if a simple game of ping pong could alter the course of history? In this first 2025 episode of Sportly, host Kavitha Davidson takes you on a journey through the unexpected story of how a 19-year-old American table tennis player and a chance encounter on a bus led to one of the most pivotal moments in U.S.-China relations: ping pong diplomacy. From cultural exchanges to breaking Cold War ice, this story reveals the power of sports to bridge divides and foster global connections. We’ll also uncover other iconic examples of sports diplomacy, from the 1964 Tokyo Olympics to baseball bridging U.S.-Cuba relations. Tune in to discover how sports can serve as a surprising yet powerful tool for peace and politics. Host: Kavitha A. Davison | Producers: Saadia Khan & Shei Yu I Content Writers: Jonathan Hazel, Shei Yu & Kavitha A. Davidson I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound | Cover Art Graphic Designer: Sarah DiMichele Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us!  Remember to subscribe to our Apple podcast channel for insightful podcasts.  Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. You can reach the host, Kavitha, at [email protected] Follow us on TikTok @immigrantlypodcast IG @immigrantlymedia Sportly is an Immigrantly Media Production For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    23 min
  2. 23/12/2024

    Reindeer Racing: A Celebration of Tradition, Culture and Sámi Heritage

    What do you get when you win a World Cup slalom race in Finland? A trophy? Sure. Bragging rights? Of course. But also...a reindeer. Yes, skiing legend Mikaela Shiffrin now has eight of them, and they’re just as impressive as her medal collection. On this episode of  Sportly, we’re strapping in for a closer look at the fast-paced, snow-packed world of reindeer racing, where tradition meets competition. From the icy tracks of Northern Europe to the rich cultural roots of the Sámi people, reindeer racing is not just a sport but a celebration of heritage and resilience. Join host Kavitha Davidson as she explores reindeer racing’s wild history, cultural significance, and the fight to keep this Nordic treasure alive.  Host: Kavitha A. Davison | Producers: Saadia Khan & Shei Yu I Content Writers: Shei Yu & Kavitha A. Davidson I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound | Cover Art Graphic Designer: Sarah DiMichele Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us!  Remember to subscribe to our Apple podcast channel for insightful podcasts.  Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. You can reach the host, Kavitha, at [email protected] Follow us on TikTok @immigrantlypodcast IG @immigrantlymedia Sportly is an Immigrantly Media Production For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    27 min
  3. 09/12/2024

    Beyond the Pom Poms: The Athleticism and Culture of Professional Cheerleading

    Cheerleading is more than just glitter and pom poms—it's a high-stakes blend of gymnastics, dance, and raw athleticism. On this episode of Sportly, host Kavitha Davidson takes you into the world of professional cheerleading, focusing on the NFL's squads. From the glamorous spotlight of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders to troubling abuse accusations, Kavitha delves into how cheerleading can be both empowering and exploitative based on intent. Whether you're a sports fan or just curious about the world of cheerleading, this episode will change how you view the sidelines. Host: Kavitha A. Davison | Producers: Saadia Khan & Shei Yu I Content Writers: Jonathan Hazel, Shei Yu & Kavitha A. Davidson I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound | Cover Art Graphic Designer: Sarah DiMichele Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us!  Remember to subscribe to our Apple podcast channel for insightful podcasts.  Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. You can reach the host, Kavitha, at [email protected] Follow us on TikTok @immigrantlypodcast IG @immigrantlymedia Sportly is an Immigrantly Media Production For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    22 min
  4. 02/12/2024

    Dave Zirin on Media Narratives, Representation, and the Politics of Sports

    This week on Sportly, Kavitha Davidson sits down with acclaimed political sports writer Dave Zirin for a no-holds-barred conversation about the intersection of sports, politics, and society. They discuss the idea of “dual realities” in media and how race, gender, and representation are often portrayed in sports narratives. The episode takes a closer look at the controversial trend of “sportswashing,” from Saudi Arabia’s massive investments to the NBA’s growing presence in the UAE. Zirin doesn’t hold back as he unpacks the complexities and contradictions of global sports institutions, shedding light on how these issues impact fans and athletes alike. If you’ve ever wondered what’s really going on behind the scenes of major sports events, this is the episode for you! Host: Kavitha A. Davison | Producers: Saadia Khan & Shei Yu I Sound Designer & Editor: Lina Chang I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound | Cover Art Graphic Designer: Sarah DiMichele Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us!  Remember to subscribe to our Apple podcast channel for insightful podcasts.  Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. You can reach the host, Kavitha, at [email protected] Follow us on TikTok @immigrantlypodcast IG @immigrantlymedia Sportly is an Immigrantly Media Production For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    43 min
  5. 25/11/2024

    Turkeys, Touchdowns, and Tradition: John Madden’s Thanksgiving Legacy

    It’s the Monday before Thanksgiving, and millions of people across the country are getting ready for turkey feasts, family time, and one of the most cherished holiday traditions—Thanksgiving Day football. What makes Thanksgiving football such a special part of the holiday? How does it bring together themes of family, food, and community? How did John Madden’s larger-than-life personality make it all feel so iconic? In this episode of Sportly, Kavitha Davidson dives into the life and legacy of John Madden, the legendary NFL coach and commentator who forever changed how we experience football. From leading the Oakland Raiders to playoff glory to becoming the voice of the game for generations, Madden left an indelible mark on the sport. But his influence doesn’t stop there. Madden took Thanksgiving football to a whole new level, introducing quirky traditions like the six-legged turkey and his beloved turducken, turning these games into something truly unforgettable. Host: Kavitha A. Davison | Producers: Saadia Khan & Shei Yu I Content Writers: Jonathan Hazel, Shei Yu & Kavitha A. Davidson I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound | Cover Art Graphic Designer: Sarah DiMichele Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us!  Remember to subscribe to our Apple podcast channel for insightful podcasts.  Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. You can reach the host, Kavitha, at [email protected] Follow us on TikTok @immigrantlypodcast IG @immigrantlymedia Sportly is an Immigrantly Media Production For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    18 min
  6. 18/11/2024

    Faith on the Field: The Complex Intersection of Religion and Sports

    Today on Sportly, Kavitha Davidson discusses the relationship between religion and sports. Stadiums feel like modern-day cathedrals, with fans chanting in unison like a congregation, and Sunday football practically replaces church for many. But how much space should personal faith take up on the field? The conversation covers everything from on-field prayers and team chaplains to controversial debates sparked by cases like Coach Kennedy’s. Why do some religious expressions in sports feel inspiring while others spark backlash? And what does all this say about the delicate balance between personal beliefs and public spaces? Join Kavitha for a timely deep dive into how religion influences sports and what it means for fans, players, and the game itself. Host: Kavitha A. Davison | Producers: Saadia Khan & Shei Yu I Content Writers: Michaela Strauther, Shei Yu & Kavitha A. Davidson I Sound Designer & Editor: Paroma Chakravarty I Immigrantly Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson | Other Music: Epidemic Sound | Cover Art Graphic Designer: Sarah DiMichele Join us as we create new intellectual engagement for our audience. You can get more information at http://immigrantlypod.com. Please share the love and leave us a review on Apple Podcasts & Spotify to help more people find us!  Remember to subscribe to our Apple podcast channel for insightful podcasts. Follow us on social media for updates and behind-the-scenes content. You can reach the host, Kavitha, at [email protected] Follow us on TikTok @immigrantlypodcast IG @immigrantlymedia Sportly is an Immigrantly Media Production For advertising inquiries, you can contact us at [email protected] Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    31 min

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IMMIGRANTLY UNINTERRUPTED

Uninterrupted listening from all our shows

US$3.99/mo or US$34.99/yr after trial

About

Sportly by Immigrantly Media takes you beyond the scoreboard to uncover the captivating stories, hidden histories, and rich cultural legacies that make sports truly unforgettable. Hosted by Emmy-winning investigative journalist Kavitha A. Davidson, Sportly brings listeners a fresh perspective on sports each week—did you know that the oldest international cricket rivalry is between the United States and Canada? Or that the NBA’s first minority player was of Asian descent? With deep dives into iconic moments, lesser-known rivalries, and the fascinating evolution of traditions like the national anthem in American sports, Sportly is here to expand your love of the game. Each episode explores stories that transcend stats, celebrating the diversity of players, the cultures they represent, and the unique events that shape our favorite sports. Tune in every Monday for thought-provoking insights, heartwarming anecdotes, and thrilling highlights that make you see the games you love in a whole new way. Sportly is the podcast companion for your commute, workout, or downtime—bringing sports to life wherever you listen. Host: Kavitha A. Davidson Producer: Saadia Khan & Shei Yu Content Writers: Michaela Strauther & Kavitha A. Davidson, Jonathan Hazel & Kavitha A Davidson Sound Design & Content Editor: Paroma Chakravarty Theme Music: Simon Hutchinson Other Music: Epidemic Sound Cover Art Design: Sarah DiMichele Follow us on IG @immigrantlymedia Twitter @Immigrantly_pod TikTok @Immigrantlypodcast Subscribe to our Patreon Sportly is an Immigrantly Media Production For advertising inquiries, please email at [email protected]

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