Shows
Edge of SportsA Basketball Look BackThis week on the Edge of Sports podcast, savant Arya Shirazi joins Dave to discuss what they have learned ten games into the season and what predictions they would do over if they had to do it again. Zirin, What the Bosa/Kaepernick Double Standard Tells Us About the 2024 Electionshttps://www.thenation.com/article/politics/nick-bosa-maga-colin-kaepernick/—http://www.edgeofsportspodcast.com/ | http://twitter.com/EdgeOfSportsPod | http://fb.com/edgeofsportspod | email us: edgeofsports@gmail.com | Edge of Sports hotline: 401-426-3343 (EDGE)A...
2024-11-141h 09Edge of SportsRound One UnderstoodThis week, Dave Zirin brings back Arya Shirazi to discuss round one of the playoffs and what we learned.Zirin, “Macklemore Dares Others to Stand Up for Palestine”https://www.thenation.com/article/culture/macklemore-hinds-hall-palestine/—http://www.edgeofsportspodcast.com/ | http://twitter.com/EdgeOfSportsPod | http://fb.com/edgeofsportspod | email us: edgeofsports@gmail.com | Edge of Sports hotline: 401-426-3343 (EDGE)Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https://redcircle.com/privacy
2024-05-141h 04Edge of SportsIrish athlete activist on organizing a sports boycott of IsraelRebecca O'Keeffe helped spark an international firestorm within the world of sports when she called on the Irish women’s basketball team to boycott its Feb. 8 match against Israel. While O'Keeffe's calls for a boycott ultimately went unheeded, her actions have provoked serious debate within Ireland and internationally on the responsibility of athletes to stand up against genocide. O'Keeffe joins Edge of Sports host Dave Zirin for an exclusive interview on why she took a stand, how the sports world responded, and why she refuses to back down.Zirin, “The F...
2024-03-0427 minEdge of SportsTrans athletes fight for inclusion in sports & racial economy of college footballInclusion for trans athletes in sports has become a flashpoint in the culture war that extends from schools to international competitions. Katie Barnes joins Edge of Sports to discuss their new book, Fair Play: How Sports Shape the Gender Debates, which offers one of the most comprehensive views yet on how the struggle for inclusion in the realm of sports has much wider social and political consequences. Dave Zirin also has Choice Words about why the public financing of stadiums is little more than corporate theft writ large. And on Ask a Sports Scholar we have Prof. Tracie Canada...
2023-10-2750 minEdge of SportsWhy Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf Didn't Stand For The AnthemIn the early 90s, Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf had a promising career ahead of him in the NBA as an up-and-coming star. That all changed in 1996 when he refused to stand for the US National Anthem and called the US flag a symbol of oppression. The NBA retaliated by suspending him, and Abdul-Rauf spent the next two decades playing exclusively for international leagues. On this episode of Edge of Sports, Abdul-Rauf looks back on his protest and how engaging the literature of revolutionary icons like Malcolm X influenced his decision. Elsewhere in the episode, Dave Zirin takes...
2023-10-0148 minEdge of SportsChamique Holdsclaw on Depression and FameChamique Holdsclaw's legendary status was apparent from the moment she entered professional sports. After helping the US National Team win the Gold Medal in the 1998 Berlin Olympics, Holdsclaw was named Rookie of the Year in her first WNBA season. Her talent on the court and success in the WNBA projected an image of stability, but away from the cameras, Holdsclaw struggled with her mental health. On this episode of Edge of Sports, Holdsclaw speaks frankly about her struggles with depression, bipolar disorder, and fame. Elsewhere in the episode, Dave rails against the "anti-woke" Trumpist r...
2023-09-0950 minEdge of SportsSolomon Hughes on playing Kareem Abdul-Jabbar in 'Winning Time’From 1979 to 1991, the Los Angeles Lakers would become a dominant force in the world of professional basketball and in American culture more broadly. Led by coach Pat Riley and star players Earvin “Magic” Johnson and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, the “Showtime” era of the Lakers is still, in many ways, the standard by which other sports dynasties are measured today. On the court, in the locker room, and beyond, the legendary Lakers franchise was both a reflection and a driver of a culture, a sport, and a country undergoing seismic changes, and the HBO dramatized series Winning Time: The Rise of the Laker...
2023-07-1250 minEdge of Sports1968 Olympian Dr. John Carlos on the legacy of the Black Athletic RevoltBody: The year 1968 was a time of rebellion across the US and the wider world. Tremendous demonstrations and rebellions shook American cities in opposition to the Vietnam War, the assassination of Martin Luther King Jr., and the arrest of Huey P. Newton, co-founder of the Black Panther Party. Amidst this tumult, two athletes, John Carlos and Tommie Smith, captured the spirit of the times by raising their fists at the 1968 Mexico City Olympics after placing first and third in the 200-meter dash. 45 years later, Dr. John Carlos is still with us—but many of his contemporaries have passed on. Dr...
2023-07-0537 minEdge of SportsW. Kamau Bell, the reluctant optimist | Edge of SportsIn this episode of Edge of Sports, host Dave Zirin highlights two takes on the gender politics of sports culture. Dr. Cheryl Cooky joins the Ask a Sports Scholar segment to discuss the history of sports and gender equality, as well as her book, No Slam Dunk: Gender, Sport, and the Unevenness of Social Change. Finally, W. Kamau Bell climbs aboard for a special interview looking back on his career as a media personality, from the early days of Totally Biased to United Shades of America.Advertising Inquiries: https://redcircle.com/brandsPrivacy & Opt-Out: https...
2023-06-2041 minEdge of SportsRemembering David Jolicoeur aka Trugoy the DoveThis week we speak to Program Manager for KGNU Community Radio, and founder of the decades strong Hip Hop group Council of Word, Dave Ashton about the legacy of David Jolicoeur aka Trugoy the Dove, who passed away last week, and his groundbreaking hip hop group De La Soul. We also have ‘Choice Words’ about this year’s Super Bowl.” We got ‘Just Stand Up’ and 'Just Sit Down’ awards to Ron DeSantis for banning books and being an awful governor and person and the U.S. alpine ski team for their climate change themed uniforms t...
2023-02-2151 minEdge of SportsHunter S. Thompson’s Sporting LifeThis week we speak to Peter Richardson, author of Savage Journey: Hunter S. Thompson and the Weird Road to Gonzo, a new book about Thompson’s life as a sports writer. We talk about Thompson’s heroes, including Muhammad Ali, and the writer's contributions to "Gonzo Journalism."We also have Choice Words about Brian Flores’s new gig in the NFL as an assistant coach for the Pittsburg Steelers, plus Just Stand Up and Just Sit Down awards for the US Women’s soccer team on their victory in an important lawsuit and the people uncritically praising the ruli...
2022-02-2837 minEdge of SportsThe Stories of Baseball LegendsThis week we speak to legendary sportswriter Peter Golenbock about his new book, Whispers of the Gods: Tales from Baseball’s Golden Age, Told by the Men Who Played It. We talk about everything from Shoeless Joe Jackson’s Hall-of-Fame case to the integration of baseball and the Brooklyn Dodgers. We also have Choice Words about the NFL and its ongoing racism and attempt at gaslighting, plus Just Stand Up and Just Sit Down awards to the courageous activists in Los Angeles who are protesting the city’s refusal to address systemic issues plaguing the city and its peo...
2022-02-1455 minEdge of SportsWhy France Is Attacking Muslim Women AthletesThis week we speak to Shireen Ahmed from the "Burn It All Down" podcast and the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation about a prospective law in France that would ban the wearing of the hijab or any headscarves on the field of play.We also have “Choice Words” about the Brian Flores lawsuit accusing the NFL of systemic racism in their hiring practices. Plus, “Just Stand Up and “Just Sit Down” awards to Brian Flores for his incredible courage into taking this course of action and his NFL coaching colleagues who would rather sit on the sideline than speak up on this...
2022-02-0734 minEdge of SportsTalking '90s Knicks with Chris HerringThis week we are talking to Chris Herring, New York Times best-selling author of Blood in the Garden: the Flagrant History of the 1990s New York Knicks. We talk about the interesting personalities on the team, Pat Riley’s decision to stick with John Starks during a crucial postseason stretch, and pose some probing hypothetical questions. We also have “Choice Words” about Major League Baseball’s refusal to place Barry Bonds in the Hall-of-Fame—an incredibly shameful decision. Plus, another special playoff edition of Jake’s Takes, including Super Bowl picks. All this and more on this week’s show! ...
2022-02-011h 25
Edge of Sports“What is The Kaepernick Effect?” A Conversation with Eddie GlaudeThis week we have a special episode—Dave Zirin in conversation with Eddie Glaude about his new book Kaepernick Effect. You won’t want to miss it. We also have Just Stand Up and Just Sit Down Awards and another installment of Jacob Zirin’s NFL picks.
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2021-09-201h 13
Edge of SportsIs Ballet At A Turning Pointe?This week we speak to journalist Dr. Chloe Angyal about her book on the ballet pipeline, Turning Pointe. The parallels to youth sports are uncanny you really have to check this interview out. Also we have “Choice Words” about Donald Trump and his choice to commemorate 911.
In addition, we have “Just Stand Up” and “Just Sit Down” awards to the amazing activists across the world who followed Colin Kaepernick’s lead and made courageous stands—many of whom are profiled in my new book, The Kaepernick Effect and athletes like quarterback Carson Wentz, who would rather display toxic masculinity and reject vacci...
2021-09-1349 min
Edge of SportsHigh School Football in the Shadow of the Nation's CapitalThis week we speak to Devon Ashby, author of the fascinating new book PG vs MoCo: A Memoir of High School Football in the Shadow of the Nation's Capital. Ashby goes into detail about the talent produced in the larger DMV area, why it is largely under discussed, and the important role that public schools have played in that development process.
We also have “Choice Words” about the fifth anniversary of the day Colin Kaepernick refused to stand for the anthem. In addition, we have “Just Stand Up” and “Just Sit Down” awards to CM Punk for his iconic return to wr...
2021-08-2341 min
The Deep DiveEpisode 73: Black Protest, Sports and The Kaepernick Effect: A Conversation w/ Dave ZirinIn this conversation, Philip talks to Dave Zirin, Sports Editor at The Nation Magazine and the author of The Kaepernick Effect. Philip and Dave discuss his new book and how Colin Kaepernick’s protest forms a bridge between the social activism of the past and a new generation of athletes using protests to shine the light on injustice.
*The Drop – The segment of the show where Philip and his guest share tasty morsels of intellectual goodness and creative musings. *
Philip’s Drop: Under the Influence of Giants – Self Titled
Dave’s Drop: Don Scavone “W...
2021-07-291h 01
Edge of SportsThe Greatest: Ken Burns, Sarah Burns, and David McMahon on Muhammad AliOn September 19, PBS will debut the new documentary “Muhammad Ali” by Ken Burns, Sarah Burns, and David McMahon. This week we speak to them about how to bring a larger than life figure back down to earth and what they learned from the project.
We also have “Choice Words” about the IOC’s shocking and casual display of anti-Asian racism from Thomas Bach. In addition, we have “Just Stand Up” and “Just Sit Down” awards to ESPN personality Jay Williams and NFL Network's Rich Eisen for speaking out about the need to get vaccinated and ESPN’s Stephen A. Smith for his stupid...
2021-07-1958 min
Edge of SportsThe Legendary “Cobra” Dave ParkerThis week we talk to former baseball MVP, Dave “The Cobra” Parker about his new book “Cobra: A Life of Baseball and Brotherhood.” We talk to Parker about his career, Roberto Clemente, and even get a vocal performance. Also I’ve got some choice words. I also have Just Stand Up and Just Sit Down awards.
We also have “Choice Words” about the last time there was a movement to get MLB to move the All-Star Game over a decade ago. In addition, we also have “Just Stand Up” and “Just Sit Down” awards to everyone that helped push MLB to olympian Sakura...
2021-04-1235 min
Edge of SportsA Journey to Mindfulness with Former NFL Player Prince Daniels, Jr.This week we talk to former NFL player Prince Daniels, Jr. about his book Mindfulness for the Ultimate Athlete: Mastering the Balance Between Power and Peace. We also talk to the Coach Kevin McNutt about the upcoming basketball season.
In addition, we have “Just Stand Up” and “Just Sit Down” awards to the courageous activists that pushed for decades to force the Cleveland baseball team to get rid of their racist mascot and Notre Dame football coach Brian Kelly, who joins other college football coaches in continuing to make empty threats under the guise of player empowerment. All this and more...
2020-12-211h 02
Edge of SportsAttacking the Rim With NBA Hall-of-Famer Dave BingThis week we speak to Dave Bing about his new book, Attacking the Rim. Dave talks about his legendary basketball career, the deep influence of his parents on the person he is today, his time as mayor of Detroit, and what he’s been doing since.
We also have “Choice Words” about Sports Illustrated’s decision to honor the activist athlete as sportspeople of the year and we highlight athletes doing the work. In addition, we have “Just Stand Up” and “Just Sit Down” awards to a midfielder for the Queens Park Rangers soccer and his teammate for a courageous act...
2020-12-1436 min
Edge of SportsA Sportsbook For Our TimesThis week we speak to acclaimed sportswriters Jessica Luther and Kavitha Davidson about their new book Loving Sports When They Don't Love You Back: Dilemmas Of The Modern Fan. It’s a tremendous book that really speaks to the current moment in a myriad of ways.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about the NFL’s push to avoid a players’ strike and what that could mean for player power. In addition, we have a “Just Stand Up” and “Just Sit Down” awards to Oklahoma City Thunder point guard Chris Paul for his incredible performance on the court as well as his role as...
2020-09-0757 min
Edge of SportsHoward Bryant on the Sports Strikes Against RacismThis week we speak to Full Dissidence author and ESPN columnist Howard Bryant about a historic week in the world of sports and what it could mean going forward. Howard is a must listen and he has some trenchant words about everything happening.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about how these sports strikes against racism could influence the labor movement. In addition, we have a special ‘Just Stand Up’ segment that consists of a great interview with the legendary freedom fighter and NBA three-point champion Craig Hodges. All this and more on this week’s show!
Howard Bryant
...
2020-08-311h 08
Edge of SportsAriyana Smith Has A Story To TellIn 2014, the first athlete to bring the Black Lives Matter movement to a place of protest during the National Anthem wasn’t an NBA or NFL player. It was Ariyana Smith of Knox College. We speak to her about the recent explosion of BLM activism in sports.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about the state of college football and the move by some athletes to move forward with the season. In addition, we have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to Lebron James and others for keeping the focus on the killing of Breonna Taylor. All that and more...
2020-08-2436 min
Edge of SportsNBA & BLM: Is it Just Woke Marketing?This week on the show we speak to NBA.com’s Sekou Smith about the NBA’s return, black lives matter, and protest. Smith gives us his take on activism coming out of the NBA’s bubble as we think about where we go from here.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about the surge in activism from NCAA athletes, particularly in some of the country’s most powerful institutions. In addition, we have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to the always brilliant Boston Celtics swingman Jaylen Brown and recurring terrible person, Georgia Senator Kelly Loeffler. All that and more on...
2020-08-1039 min
Edge of SportsLayshia Clarendon, the WNBA, and Pushing the EnvelopeThis week on the show we speak to Layshia Clarendon of the New York Liberty about a protest Layshia was at the forefront in organizing. We also talk to them about the return of the WNBA, activism within the ranks of WNBA, and centering the voices of black women.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about the courage of WNBA athletes in protesting racial injustice and the attempt by the right wing to demonize these athletes. In addition, we have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to NBA star Kyrie Irving for donating 1.5 million dollars to help pay WNBA pla...
2020-07-2938 min
Edge of SportsNBA at the Breaking PointThis week on the show we speak to Michael Lee of The Athletic about the prospects of playing the remainder of the NBA season in the Orlando bubble. We also talk about Stephen Jackson's anti-Semitic comments and discuss what that could do to the movement for player empowerment.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about how athletes are fighting the Olympic ban on protests. In addition, we have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to the wave of dissent and protest taking place in the sport of Cricket in recent weeks and a couple of deplorable GOP senators. Al...
2020-07-1344 min
Edge of SportsNFL Pro Bowler Michael Bennett on the Power of ProtestThis week on the show, we speak to author and NFL Pro Bowler Michael Bennett about recent protests over the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery. Bennett connects the struggle of African Americans to the global movement for justice and gives us his take on news about a potential name change for the football team in Washington, DC.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about the sacrifice and legacy of basketball legend Maya Moore, who took two years of her own career off to successfully fight for the release of wrongfully accused prisoner Jonathan Irons. In addit...
2020-07-0639 min
Edge of SportsKevin Powell: When We Get FreeThis week on the show, we speak to author and activist Kevin Powell about his new book, When We Free The World. Powell talks to us about recent protests over police killings, a recent lawsuit that he underwent in Minnesota, and why it’s important to maintain hope during these times.
We also have some Choice Words about the legacy of the racist former president of the IOC, Avery Brundage, and a museum’s decision to remove a bust of him. In addition, we have Just Stand Up and Just Sit Down awards to Morehouse College for cancelling the...
2020-06-2935 min
Edge of SportsTear Down The Statues, Change The NamesThis week on the show, I speak about the remarkable development of athletes taking part in street protests around the country against police violence and racial inequity. I also break down why now is the moment to demand unequivocally that the name of the Washington football team must change.
Zirin, It’s Time for Roger Goodell to Change the Name of the Washington Football Team
https://www.thenation.com/article/society/redskins-racist-roger-goodell/
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http://www.edgeofsportspodcast.com/ | http://twitter.com/EdgeOfSportsPod | http://fb.com/edgeofsportspod | email us: edgeofsports@gmail.com | Edge of Sports hotline: 401-426-3343 (EDGE)
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Su...
2020-06-2216 min
Edge of SportsCraig Hodges: NBA Freedom Fighter Speaks This week we talk to former Chicago Bull Craig Hodges about recent protests and uprisings taking place all over the country in the wake of the killings of George Floyd, Breonna Taylor, and Ahmaud Arbery. Hodges also talks about ESPN’s Last Dance documentary, his omission from the film, as well as the reactions from other Bulls players from the era to the movie.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about NASCAR’s decision to ban confederate flags from its venues. In addition, we have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to the University of Texas football players that are putting de...
2020-06-151h 25
Edge of SportsMinneapolis One Week Later: How Things Have ChangedThis week we talk to former NBA basketball player and Minnesota native Royce White about the week that was. White has been at the heart of the protests in the twin cities and talks to us about protests in Minneapolis, Donald Trump and the use of military force, as well as what is needed to move forward.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about Gwen Berry challenging the USOC. In addition, we have ‘Just Stand Up’ awards to the NFL players that put out a video challenging the NFL on the issue of black lives as well as Drew Brees fo...
2020-06-0835 min
Edge of SportsRoyce White: On the Frontlines in MinneapolisThis week we talk to former NBA basketball player and Minnesota native Royce White about the police murder of George Floyd. White has been at the heart of the protests in the twin cities and talks to us about his experiences there and his insights into the larger issues of white supremacy, policing, and the role of athletes.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about the potential for a coalition of anti-racist athletes that might develop in the wake of the killing of George Floyd. In addition, we have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to the white athlet...
2020-06-0145 min
Edge of SportsScoop Jackson Makes it PlainThis week we talk to Scoop Jackson, author of the new book, The Game is Not a Game: The Power, Protest and Politics of American Sports. We talk to Scoop about the book, Scoop’s native Chicago, and the Last Dance documentary.
We also have some Choice Words about the NFL’s willingness to play a vital role in Trump’s reelection campaign by trying very hard to start the season back as fast as possible. In addition, we have Just Stand Up and Just Sit Down awards to LeBron James for speaking out about the murder of Ahmaud...
2020-05-111h 38
Edge of SportsGhosts of Dodger StadiumThis week we talk to Eric Nusbaum, author of the new book, “Stealing Home: Los Angeles, the Dodgers, and the Lives Caught in Between.” We talk to him about his new book, the history of how Dodger Stadium came to be, and the displacement of people of color in the process of building it.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about the NCAA and the prospect of college football coming this fall as well as its decision to announce support for college athletes to sign endorsement deals. In addition, we have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to former Bulls s...
2020-05-0435 min
Edge of SportsThe Myth and Reality of Black Consumer PowerThis week we talk to Jared Ball, professor of Communication Studies at Morgan State University in Baltimore. We talk to him about his new book, The Myth and Propaganda of Black Buying Power, the history of the concept, and its connection to black radical politics.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about The Last Dance for its uncritical look at Michael Jordan, and it’s lopsided attack on Jerry Krause. In addition, we have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to the 1st draft pick of the 2020 draft, Joe Burrow, for using his platform to talk about poverty, and N...
2020-04-2746 min
Edge of SportsJordan’s Last DanceThis week we talk to friend of the show Michael Lee to talk about Last Dance, a documentary on Michael Jordan and the ’98 Chicago Bulls. We talk about the NBA of the ‘90s, Michael Jordan’s drive to be great, and why people continue to be fascinated by MJ.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about WWE and its decision to resume live programming in the midst of the coronavirus. In addition, we have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to Megan Rapinoe for her fantastic livestream with W. Kamau Bell and Trump’s committee to reopen sports. All that and...
2020-04-2044 min
Edge of SportsCoronavirus In "The Other DC"This week we take a sidestep from sports and talk to Maurice Cook from the Ward 6 Mutual Aid Network. We talk about coronavirus’ impact on DC, how it’s affected people of color in the city, and what can be done about it.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about the dystopian plans to reopen the sports world that are floating around right now. In addition, we have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to Jalen Rose on the anniversary of his shellacking of Skip Bayless and Maven Media for their decision to fire friend of the show Grant Wahl a...
2020-04-1351 min
Edge of SportsGrant Wahl on Soccer's Place In a Coronavirus WorldThis week we speak to the preeminent soccer journalist in the United States, Grant Wahl, about the role of soccer amidst the coronavirus pandemic. We talk about coronavirus, an update on USA women’s soccer lawsuit for equal pay, and more.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about the bribery scandal that should be rocking the IOC. In addition, we have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to members of the FC Barcelona team for taking pay cuts to help club employees, and people making racist attacks on sports journalist Jemele Hill. All that and more on this week’s Ed...
2020-04-0636 min
Edge of SportsEsports: The Only Game In Town This week we speak to Rod “Slasher” Breslau, and Erin Ashley Simon, two experts on Esports. We speak to them about the impact of coronavirus on Esports, the political economy of the sport, and why traditional sports fans that aren’t on board yet should give them a look.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about the activist athlete in the time of coronavirus. In addition, we have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to Joel Embiid for both donating money to employees of Sixers while implicitly shaming team ownership to do the same, and Tilman Fertitta, Houston Rockets owner...
2020-03-301h 03
Edge of Sports“If I knew the answers I’d run for President.”This week we speak to NBA veteran Wilson Chandler about how he is maintaining amid the pandemic as well as his experience playing on basketball’s biggest stage, his stint in China, and the rhetoric of Donald Trump.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about the Coronavirus and athletes. In addition, we have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to Jeremy Lin for calling out Trump for racist rhetoric and the IOC for dragging their feet on doing the right thing and cancelling the 2020 Olympic games. All that and more on this week’s Edge of Sports!
Wilson Chan...
2020-03-2341 min
Edge of SportsThe Rise and Fall (And Possible Rise Again) of the Warriors DynastyThis week we talk to ace NBA journalist Ethan Sherwood Strauss about his new book The Victory Machine: The Making and Unmaking of the Warriors Dynasty. We talk to Ethan about that Warriors dynasty, Kevin Durant, and the price of success.
We also have some ‘Choice Words’ about the Coronavirus and sports. In addition, we have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to the players of the NFL fighting for fair contracts and egomaniacal Knicks owner James Dolan. All that and more on this week’s Edge of Sports!
Ethan Sherwood Strauss
https://www.publicaffairsbooks.com/titles/ethan-s...
2020-03-0940 min
KPFA - The Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave ZirinThe Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave Zirin – March 6, 2020Sports and its many relationships to politics, culture and labor, among other issues, are on the table as hosts Dave Zirin and Etan Thomas welcome current and former athletes in to discuss today's big stories, from the sports world and beyond.
2020-03-063h 19Edge of SportsA Turning Point in Women’s Sports & Inside Report From Kobe’s MemorialThis week we are talking to Power Plays sports reporter Lindsay Gibbs about the promising albeit volatile state of women’s sports and then to Kevin Powell about his experience at Kobe Bryant’s memorial service at the Staples Center.
We also have a Kaepernick watch about two volleyball players who took a knee for Palestine. And this week I read a poem! By Kevin Powell!
Lindsay Gibbs
https://www.powerplays.news/
Twitter: @linzsports
Kevin Powell
Kevin's Poem
Instagram: KevinPowellBrooklyn
Zirin, Athletes Take a Knee Against Israel’s Occupation
https://www.thenation.com/article/society/dwyane-wade-trans-child/
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2020-03-021h 04KPFA - The Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave ZirinThe Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave Zirin – February 28, 2020Sports and its many relationships to politics, culture and labor, among other issues, are on the table as hosts Dave Zirin and Etan Thomas welcome current and former athletes in to discuss today's big stories, from the sports world and beyond.
2020-02-283h 19KPFA - The Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave ZirinThe Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave Zirin – February 21, 2020Sports and its many relationships to politics, culture and labor, among other issues, are on the table as hosts Dave Zirin and Etan Thomas welcome current and former athletes in to discuss today's big stories, from the sports world and beyond.
2020-02-213h 19
Edge of SportsFormer NBA Star David West on Political Journey & Bernie SupportThis week we speak to retired NBA All Star David West about his life, politics, and support for the Bernie Sanders campaign. We also talk about his work to challenge the NCAA with the Professional College League.
We have ‘Choice Words’ about NBA legend Dwyane Wade and why his love and support for his trans daughter Zaya is an act of resistance. We got ‘Just Stand Up’ and “Just Sit Down” awards to Colin Kaepernick for launching a publishing house and the East Moline police. All that and more on this week’s episode of The Edge of Sports Podcast!
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2020-02-1732 minKPFA - The Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave ZirinThe Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave Zirin – February 14, 2020Sports and its many relationships to politics, culture and labor, among other issues, are on the table as hosts Dave Zirin and Etan Thomas welcome current and former athletes in to discuss today's big stories, from the sports world and beyond.
2020-02-143h 19
Edge of SportsHoward Bryant & Full DissidenceThis week we talk to sportswriter Howard Bryant about his new book, Full Dissidence: Notes From an Uneven Playing Field. It is a searing look at race, power, and the real world beyond the sports world.
We have "Choice Words" about the Super Bowl and the spectacle that was. We got "Just Stand Up" and “Just Sit Down” awards to boxer Gary Russell Jr. for inspiring youth in the DC, Maryland, and Virginia area, and Pete Rose, who’s still making a shameless play for Coopertown entry. All that and more on Edge of Sports!
Howard Bryant...
2020-02-1040 minKPFA - The Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave ZirinThe Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave Zirin – February 7, 2020Sports and its many relationships to politics, culture and labor, among other issues, are on the table as hosts Dave Zirin and Etan Thomas welcome current and former athletes in to discuss today's big stories, from the sports world and beyond.
2020-02-073h 19
Edge of SportsThe Kansas City Chiefs Name: Racist Or “Just Sports?”This week we talk to Vincent Schilling, associate editor from Indian Country Today about the origin and present ramifications of the Kansas City Chiefs name and mascot.
We have ‘Choice Words’ about Kobe Bryant as we reflect on his history on and off the court. We also feature a conversation with The Athletic’s Michael Lee, who knew Kobe. We got ‘Just Stand Up’ and “Just Sit Down” awards to airport workers engaging in a hunger strike outside the Miami airport and Marcus Morris of the New York Knicks, as well as a special ‘Kaepernick Watch’ about a PETA ad. All that and m...
2020-02-0353 minKPFA - The Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave ZirinThe Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave Zirin – January 31, 2020Sports and its many relationships to politics, culture and labor, among other issues, are on the table as hosts Dave Zirin and Etan Thomas welcome current and former athletes in to discuss today's big stories, from the sports world and beyond.
2020-01-313h 19
Edge of SportsRacism's Persistence in SportsThis week we speak to Professor Kenneth Shropshire about a host of issues pervading sports and how today's students are taking them in.
We have ‘Choice Words’ with Chuck Modiano on whether there is an ethical team to root for in this week's Super Bowl. We also have ‘Just Stand Up’ and “Just Sit Down” awards to Maya Moore and her incredible work on criminal justice and cross country skiing of all things. All that and more on Edge of Sports!
Kenneth Shropshire
https://globalsport.asu.edu/
Twitter: @kenshropshire
Zirin, NFL Player Justin Jackson: ‘40 Years of Neoliberalism Has Brought Ou...
2020-01-2750 min
Edge of SportsNFL Player Says It Loud and Proud: “I consider myself a Berniecrat.”This week we chop it up with LA Chargers running back Justin Jackson, who has become a big of a lightning rod on social media in recent months. Jackson discusses media bias against progressive politics, militarism, the 2016 election, and why he supports Democratic presidential candidate Bernie Sanders.
We have ‘Choice Words’ about the Australian Open and the impact of Climate Change down under. We also have ‘Just Stand Up’ and “Just Sit Down” awards to freedom fighter and Olympian John Carlos and the security office that issued an arrest to wide receiver Odell Beckham. Enjoy!
Zirin, The Australian Open Is the...
2020-01-2149 minKPFA - The Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave ZirinThe Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave Zirin – January 17, 2020Sports and its many relationships to politics, culture and labor, among other issues, are on the table as hosts Dave Zirin and Etan Thomas welcome current and former athletes in to discuss today's big stories, from the sports world and beyond.
2020-01-173h 19KPFA - The Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave ZirinThe Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave Zirin – January 10, 2020Sports and its many relationships to politics, culture and labor, among other issues, are on the table as hosts Dave Zirin and Etan Thomas welcome current and former athletes in to discuss today's big stories, from the sports world and beyond.
2020-01-101h 02Edge of SportsLegacy of David Stern and a Look Back at 2019This week we discuss the towering and complicated legacy of former NBA commissioner David Stern. We look at his success in guiding the league through some its best years as well as his support of notorious racist former Clippers owner Donald Sterling and the infamous dress code that was enacted during the aughts, as well as treatment of Craig Hodges and Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf.
We also got some ‘Choice Words’ about 2019, a remarkable year at the intersection of sports and politics. We have a ‘Just Stand Up’ Award and ‘Just Sit Down Award’ to everyone horrified by recent US attacks in the Middle...
2020-01-0623 minKPFA - The Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave ZirinThe Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave Zirin – January 3, 2020Sports and its many relationships to politics, culture and labor, among other issues, are on the table as hosts Dave Zirin and Etan Thomas welcome current and former athletes in to discuss today's big stories, from the sports world and beyond.
2020-01-033h 19KPFA - The Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave ZirinThe Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave Zirin – December 27, 2019Sports and its many relationships to politics, culture and labor, among other issues, are on the table as hosts Dave Zirin and Etan Thomas welcome current and former athletes in to discuss today's big stories, from the sports world and beyond.
2019-12-273h 19KPFA - The Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave ZirinThe Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave Zirin – December 20, 2019Sports and its many relationships to politics, culture and labor, among other issues, are on the table as hosts Dave Zirin and Etan Thomas welcome current and former athletes in to discuss today's big stories, from the sports world and beyond.
2019-12-203h 19KPFA - The Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave ZirinThe Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave Zirin – December 13, 2019Sports and its many relationships to politics, culture and labor, among other issues, are on the table as hosts Dave Zirin and Etan Thomas welcome current and former athletes in to discuss today's big stories, from the sports world and beyond.
2019-12-133h 19KPFA - The Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave ZirinThe Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave Zirin – December 6, 2019Sports and its many relationships to politics, culture and labor, among other issues, are on the table as hosts Dave Zirin and Etan Thomas welcome current and former athletes in to discuss today's big stories, from the sports world and beyond.
2019-12-063h 19KPFA - The Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave ZirinThe Collision: Sports and Politics, Etan Thomas & Dave Zirin – November 29, 2019Sports and its many relationships to politics, culture and labor, among other issues, are on the table as hosts Dave Zirin and Etan Thomas welcome current and former athletes in to discuss today's big stories, from the sports world and beyond.
2019-11-293h 19Edge of SportsCan Youth Football Save Us From Gun Violence?This week we talk with journalist Natalie Weiner from SB Nation about her recent longform piece on how gun violence has affected youth football around the country. Weiner’s piece is titled, “The Line of Fire: Gun violence, high school football and what coaches are doing to keep their players safe.”
We have ‘Choice Words’ about the NFL’s circus of a Kaepernick tryout and the NFL’s attempt to bend Kaep to their will. We also have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to Carolina Panthers Safety Eric Reid for comments after Kaepernick’s workout, and WWE management for its a...
2019-11-2535 min
Edge of SportsTalking to Legendary Olympic Sprinter And Activist Wyomia TyusThis week we are honored to speak to gold medalist at the 1964 and 1968 Olympics and the first-ever back-to-back gold medalist in the 100 meters, athlete and lifelong activist Wyomia Tyus. Tyus talks about her experiences in the Olympics and the fight for freedom.
We have ‘Choice Words’ about the firing of Canadian hockey commentator and bigot Don Cherry. We also have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to Megan Rapinoe for an awesome speech, and the NFL, who are up to their shenanigans as it pertains to Colin Kaepernick. All this and more on this week’s episode!
Wyomia Tyu...
2019-11-1849 min
Edge of SportsThe Hidden History of the 1936 US Olympic Basketball TeamThis week we speak to author Andrew Maraniss about his new book Games of Deception about the 1936 US Olympic Basketball team’s foray into the Hitler hosted Berlin Olympics.
We have ‘Choice Words’ about the Nationals visit to the White House. We also have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to Mary Cain, the track athlete that came forward to speak in detail about her alleged abuse by a Nike coach, and Ryan Anderson and Kurt Suzuki, on the heels of their visit to the White House. All this and more on this week’s episode!
Andrew Maraniss
T...
2019-11-1141 min
Edge of SportsThe Great Booing At Nationals ParkThis week we speak to former Edge of Sports podcast producer Dan Bloom about his experience sitting in Nationals Park as the thousands rose up last Sunday to boo Donald Trump. A longtime Nationals fan, he also reflects on their historic World Series triumph.
We have ‘Choice Words’ about the demise of Deadspin. We also have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to Sean Doolittle, the Washington National who has already turned down Trump, and Jerry Jones, owner of the Dallas Cowboys. All this and more on this week’s episode!
Dan Bloom
Twitter: @danbl00m
https://theslo...
2019-11-0441 min
Edge of SportsWhat Is Juiced? The Players? The Balls? Or The Planet?This week we speak to freelance author Rob Arthur about his theories about the Major League Baseball home run boom. Arthur turns science into home run theories. Fascinating subject. Also I have Just Stand Up and Just Sit Down awards and and more.
We have ‘Choice Words’ about the firing of Brandon Taubman of the Houston Astros. We also have ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to Charles Barkley and Vice-President Mike Pence fans. We also have a special read. All this and more!
Rob Arthur
Twitter: @No_Little_Plans
https://www.baseballprospectus.com/news/article/48260/moonshot-the...
2019-10-2842 min
Edge of SportsNCAA Exploitation Word AssociationThis week we speak to DC-based sports journalist and editor Patrick Hruby about the rot that envelops the NCAA, more visible than ever this March. We do all this through the prism of word association, talking coaches, players, apparel companies, and the NCAA.
We also have ‘Choice Words’ about Mike Trout’s mega contract. We then got ‘Just Stand Up’ and ‘Just Sit Down’ awards to Braden Holtby and Michigan State coach Tom Izzo, a brand new ‘Kaepernick Watch’, and more!
Patrick Hruby
Twitter: @patrick_hruby
The NCAA says paying athletes hurts their education. That’s laughable.
Zirin, Mike Trout’s Mega Deal and Basebal...
2019-03-2551 minEdge of SportsAndrew Brandt on Kaepernick and the Business of the NFLThis week, we talk all things NFL -- plus a new twist on the Lebron-Jordan debate -- with Andrew Brandt, columnist for The MMQB and The Athletic and the host of "Business of Sports" podcast. Brandt details his time as an executive with the Green Bay Packers and dishes on whether or not the NFL is blackballing Colin Kaepernick.Dave has some Choice Words for how LeBron James has, once again, flipped the script in terms of what we expect from our superstars. Our Just Stand Up Award goes to Steve Kerr, head coach of the Golden State Warriors, for...
2018-02-2054 minEdge of SportsSacred Forests: The Olympics Land on South KoreaThis week, we give a preview of the Winter Olympics with Jules Boykoff, co-author of Power Games: A Political History of the Olympics. We also talk about the geopolitics surrounding the games, the destruction of sacred spaces in South Korea brought on by the Olympics, and whether we can expect athlete protests this year.During Choice Words, we’ll examine comments made by recent Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles on the topic of a White House visit. Legendary goalkeeper Neville Southall gets a Just Stand Up Award from us for comments made to the Financial Times about economic inequality and ra...
2018-02-1333 minEdge of SportsThree Generations of Athlete ActivistsThis week, three generations of activist athletes take the stage at Wake Forest University. It's me your Edge of Sports host Dave Zirin, interviewing 1968 Olympic legend John Carlos, former NBA player - who knows something about being "blackballed" - Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf, and Olympian Ibtihaj Muhammad. If only there was something to talk about in the world of sports and politics.Also, I have some choice words about what the NFL players truly won after their meeting this week with NFL owners.Special thanks to Melissa Harris-Perry, Shanta Covington and Rolisa Tutwiler at Wake Forest.Dr. John Carlos, '68 OlympianREAD: The...
2017-10-241h 01Edge of Sports"U BUM!" Sports, Trump, & ResistanceWe discuss the explosive weekend of anthem protests with former San Francisco 49er Chris Borland, who famously walked away from the league after his stellar rookie season. We also go through everything that happened in the last week, a period that could be called a maelstrom of sports, politics and resistance. Finally, we ask the question: Is the original message of why players are taking a knee getting lost in the shuffle?Chris BorlandTwitter: https://twitter.com/ChrisBorland_http://grantland.com/the-triangle/the-definition-of-tough-how-chris-borland-walked-away-from-his-dream-job/Zirin, The Fragile Toxic Masculinity of Donald Trumphttps://www.thenation.com/article/the-fragile-toxic-masculinity-of-donald-trump/Zirin, For The NFL...
2017-09-271h 03Edge of SportsEtan Thomas on Kaepernick Protests & A Radical Plan to Change the NCAAThis week we talk to ten year NBA veteran and author Etan Thomas about why he attended a protest against the "blackballing" of free agent quarterback Colin Kaepernick at NFL headquarters as well as the role of Kaepernick's black critics in the media. Also, we speak to economist Andy Schwarz who has "concocted a plan to radically challenge the college industrial complex." We also have words about the racist murder of Richard Collins III on the UMD campus.Etan ThomasTwitter: @etanthomas36https://twitter.com/etanthomas36https://www.amazon.com/Fatherhood-Ultimate-Challenge-Etan-Thomas/dp/0451414896Andy SchwarzTwitter: @andyhrehttps://twitter.com/andyhrehttp://www.oskr.com...
2017-05-301h 03Edge of SportsJohn Angelos on the Orioles and Racist Incident at FenwayThis week, we speak to Baltimore Orioles COO, John Angelos, about his stirring statement against racism after his team's star outfielder, Adam Jones, was hit with a barrage of racist insults at Boston's Fenway Park. We also have a Just Stand Up and Just Sit Down award, both connected to this incident, a special Kaepernick Watch and much more.John Angelos, Baltimore Orioles COORead his statement after the incident in Boston: 'We Must Actively Stand Up': John Angelos's Response to Racism at Fenway Parkhttps://www.thenation.com/article/we-must-actively-stand-up-john-angelos-response-to-racism-at-fenway-park/Dave Zirin, MLB and Boston Sports Fans Have to Stand Up...
2017-05-0951 minEdge of SportsThe Time Is Now: John Carlos LIVE on Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr.In front of 400 high school students in Concord, Massachusetts I speak to 1968 Olympic legend Dr. John Carlos about the legacy of Dr. Martin Luther King and what it means for today. Also this week I have some choice words about Milwaukee Bucks star Giannis Antetokounmpo and the attacks made against him by fascists in Greece. We also have a very special Kaepernick watch. Stay frosty, people.http://www.johncarlos68.comhttp://twitter.com/DrJohnCarlosDave Zirin in The Nation: https://www.thenation.com/authors/dave-zirin/Kaepernick hailed as a new civil rights leader, by Steve Collins (Sun Journal, Maine)http://www.sunjournal...
2017-01-2139 minEdge of SportsChris Webber: Beats, Hoops and LifeThis week we speak to Chris Webber about his new podcast ‘Fearless or Insane’ as well as his politics, growing up in a union household, hip-hop, and fine dining. I also read an email I received from a security guard at Viking Stadium about the protest banner hanging against the Dakota access pipeline and we have I just stand up or that goes to the entire San Francisco 49ers team.Tonight in Seattle:Dave Zirin with Michael BennettThe Collision: Sports and Politics in the U.S.7:30PM, Thursday, January 5, 2017Great HallInfo & tickets: http://townhallseattle.org/event/dave-zirin/Chris Webber podcast: Fear...
2017-01-0558 minEdge of SportsJan 5 in Seattle: Dave Zirin & Michael BennettHey Seattle, come out to our own Dave Zirin's big event on January 5 at Town HallDave Zirin with Michael BennettThe Collision: Sports and Politics in the U.S.7:30PM, Thursday, January 5, 2017Great Hall(Free – $5)Free admission for students. Doors open at 6:30PMInfo:http://townhallseattle.org/event/dave-zirin/Tickets:http://townhall.strangertickets.com/events/39214033/dave-zirin-the-collision-sports-and-politics-in-the-us—http://www.edgeofsportspodcast.com/ | http://twitter.com/edgeofsports | http://fb.com/edgeofsportspod | email us: edgeofsports@slate.com | Edge of Sports hotline: 401-428-3343 (EDGE)
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2016-12-3000 minEdge of SportsHow The Feds Executed My Parents: Michael Meeropol, Son of The RosenbergsWe speak this week to Michael Meeropol, whose parents, Julius and Ethel Rosenberg, were executed by the US government in 1953. We talk about his efforts to clear his mother's name and the importance of the Brooklyn Dodgers in their lives. Meeropol reads from the letters of his parents where they discuss baseball. I also have choice words about rap icon Kurtis Blow and his underrated importance to the development of the NBA as a global phenomenon. Finally we have a tribute to the late Black Panther leader Fred Hampton, via a t-shirt on our weekly Kaepernick watch.Dave in Seattle...
2016-12-0933 minEdge of SportsJohn Carlos: “Follow Kaepernick to the Rainbow”We bring sports and politics icon John Carlos in-studio to talk about how it feels to see a new generation of athletes replicate his anthem protests of 1968. Dr. Carlos - who is having a wild week - also speaks to us about the opening of the new National Museum of African American History and Culture where he was part of the unveiling of a statue of himself, and two other two men on that iconic medal stand: Tommie Smith and Peter Norman. Carlos is also in town to visit the White House. He speaks about what it feels like to be...
2016-09-2957 minEdge of SportsThe Premature Activist Athlete: Royce White on the ESPYs openingToday there is largely universal praise for the ESPY statements of Carmelo Anthony, Chris Paul, Dwayne Wade and LeBron James. But what about athletes who stood up in much more difficult environment? Today we take a critical look at the ESPY statement with 2012 NBA first round draft pick Royce White. This is an NBA-level talent who has been pushed out of the league for standing up. We talk to Royce about the ESPYS and his future. I also have some "Choice words" about the way this discussion of athlete activism is being framed in the #BlackLivesMatter era.Royce White twitter: h...
2016-07-2038 minEdge of SportsLeBron’s Champion Cavaliers & Sports After OrlandoThe ascendancy of the Cleveland Cavaliers and LeBron James to the top of the mountain has captivated hoop fans everywhere, including us. First, Dave Zirin sings the praises of LeBron and the Cavs, and then speaks with Cyd Zeigler, founder of the website Outsports and author of the new book ‘Fair Play: How LGBT Athletes Are Claiming Their Rightful Place in Sports’ about how the sports world responded to the massacre of LGBT people in Orlando. Finally, we take it to church…seriously…with a recording of Dave’s Father’s Day sermon, as delivered to Plymouth Congregational Church in DC on "Muhamm...
2016-06-2339 minEdge of SportsClap Back on WaPo's Bad Poll with Jacqueline KeelerThe Washington Post caused a furor when they released a new poll, claiming that 90% of Native Americans are not offended by the home football team’s controversial name. We read this article with great interest and came away with more questions than answers. Today, we offer the Post, and our listeners, a moral reality check with Jacqueline Keeler, Navajo/Yankton Dakota Sioux writer and co-founder of the group ’Eradicating Offensive Native Mascotry.’ Then, Dave reads a response from Washington Post polling manager Scott Clement, and finally, Dave updates his open letter to Dan Snyder, originally published in Grantland.Washington Post: “New poll f...
2016-05-2739 minEdge of SportsMichael Sam: The first openly gay man in the NFL looks back, plans aheadMichael Sam, the first openly gay player drafted into the NFL, tells his fascinating story to Dave Zirin, on-stage at University of Colorado Denver. Despite a great college career at Mizzou and slot in the 2014 draft, Sam hasn’t found a home in the NFL. Today on Edge of Sports, Michael Sam weighs the undeniable good he has done for society with honest reflections on what could have been different. Then, our ‘Just Stand Up’ award goes to Julie DiCaro,who, along with fellow journalist Sarah Spain, helped to call out sexist internet trolls with the powerful video ‘More Than Mean’ sho...
2016-05-0537 minEdge of SportsRobert Lipsyte Suffers No Fools, Takes No PrisonersToday's guest hold the informal title of "greatest living sportswriter," Robert Lipsyte. Lipsyte distinguished himself with multiple stints at the New York Times, covering Muhammad Ali when he was still known as Cassius Clay. He is also noted for his recent tenure as an unflinching Ombudsman at ESPN. The author of celebrated books such as "SportsWorld: An American Dreamland" and his memoir “An Accidental Sportswriter,” Lipsyte offers Dave Zirin unvarnished opinions on the likes of Muhammad Ali, Billie Jean King, Bill Simmons and ‘Grantland,’ Derek Jeter and ‘The Player’s Tribune,’ the delays besetting ESPN’s ‘The Undefeated,’ Donald Trump, and his most indelibl...
2016-04-151h 09Edge of SportsRemembering Miles & Phife with Don Cheadle & Bobbito GarciaToday we pay homage to two departed legends of music. First, we have Don Cheadle, star and director of the Miles Davis biopic “Miles Ahead.” Then, DJ Bobbito Garcia remembers his friend Malik Taylor, AKA Phife Dawg of A Tribe Called Quest who passed away last week. Dave’s ‘Choice Words’ are call for NBA Commissioner to move the 2017 All-Star weekend away from Charlotte in light of a recent North Carolina anti-trans law, and a somber ‘Just Stand Up’ goes to Dave’s departed friend Kevin Turner. The former Alabama and NFL running back lived with dignity and strength before succumbing to AL...
2016-03-3147 minEdge of SportsJudah FriedlanderAmid political chaos, Edge of Sports looks to a comic mind for order: author and actor Judah Friedlander. As Frank Rossitano on 30 Rock, Friedlander was known for his “World Champ” trucker hats, and it does not escape Judah that Donald Trump’s “Make America Great Again” cap bears more than a passing resemblance to his signature look. Dave Zirin and Judah talk politics, comedy and ping pong, recorded in a Montgomery County, Maryland library. Then, Dave has some ‘Choice Words’ about baseball diplomacy in Cuba laced with music by Machito, and the ‘Just Stand Up’ award goes to Serena Williams for rebuking Raymond M...
2016-03-2551 minEdge of SportsDr. Harry Edwards on NCAAs: Stop the Madness of MarchAs college basketball fans descend into March Madness, Edge of Sports offers a wake-up call from Dr. Harry Edwards, renowned sports sociologist and author of the seminal text “The Revolt of the Black Athlete.” Dr. Edwards prescribes a stringent tonic for the NCAA’s ills: a complete dissolution and ground-up reformation focused on academics and athlete equity. Our host Dave Zirin also offers his ’Choice Words’ to the NCAA, drawing inspiration from John Oliver’s brilliant 2015 sendup. Finally, the ‘Just Stand Up’ award goes to Rory Fanning, an Army Vet and co-author of Craig Hodges’ forthcoming memoir who was among a group of protesters...
2016-03-1637 minEdge of SportsMartina Navratilova: The Refusal to Go BackwardEdge of Sports welcomes Martina Navratilova, one of the greatest tennis players ever and one of host Dave Zirin’s political-athlete heroes. Martina made history not just with her utter on-court dominance of the 1980s, but through a remarkable journey away from her family in totalitarian Czechoslovakia, and to a life where she lives today as a political, open LGBT American. This week’s column read is “The Past Is Never Dead: Peyton Manning and Today’s Jock-Rape Culture at Tennessee,” and we give “Just Stand Up Awards” to musicians Win Butler and Kendrick Lamar.—-This episode of Edge of Sports is brought...
2016-02-1838 minEdge of SportsSuper Bowl Aftermath: Beyoncé, Cam Newton, and "Unapologetic Blackness"In the aftermath of Super Bowl 50, we look at two figures who personify "Unapologetic Blackness." First, we discuss the indomitable of Cam Newton with former NFL pro, Harvard Business School grad and columnist Domonique Foxworth. Next, we get in ‘formation’ for Beyoncé with Dr. Brittney Cooper AKA Professor Crunk, who schools us on the rich symbolism of Beyoncé’s latest cultural touchstone. Then, Dave Zirin delivers an antiseptic column read: “Super Bowl 50: Brought to You by Toe Fungus,” and finally, a smackdown challenge to Rob Lowe (yes, the actor) who had some choice words for Cam Newton on twitter.—Edge of Sports is brought...
2016-02-1238 minEdge of SportsNoam Chomsky Super Bowl Special & Cam Newton: The Bridge to SomewhereThe Edge of Sports Super Bowl Blockbuster Special features radical linguistic theorist Noam Chomsky giving his first-ever sports interview. Today, the MIT professor drops knowledge on the gladiatorial spectacle capturing the world's attention, but far from a sports-grinch, you'll also hear Chomsky re-live his early love affair with baseball. He assesses the phenomena of Bernie Sanders and Donald Trump after the Iowa caucuses, and to top it all off - he even gives the long-awaited Chomsky Super Bowl pick. Dave’s column this week is about transformational Panthers quarterback Cam Newton, and the ‘Just Stand Up’ award goes to Greek soccer tea...
2016-02-0442 minEdge of SportsKareem Abdul-Jabbar Video Out NowToday, the video of Dave Zirin's interview with Kareem Abdul-Jabbar is available on TheNation.com, EdgeOfSportsPodcast.com, and YouTube. You'll hear and see aspects of this experience that had to be cut out of the podcast.Short clip: https://youtu.be/hP5aTGcXMwgFull interview: https://youtu.be/9xtI8c0Dg8QIn honor of this release, we're bringing back our conversation with Kareem in its entirety. You can hear something new with every listen.3:11 “These Terrorist Attacks Are Not About Religion”http://ti.me/1x57Sgy10:13 “This is the difference between Donald Trump and Bernie Sanders” http://wapo.st/1NY53ug10:59 “The Coming Race...
2016-01-2949 minEdge of SportsWho Killed Lawrence Phillips?Lawrence Phillips was a phenomenal football talent, a back-to-back National Champion at the University of Nebraska and a top NFL draft pick in 1996. But a childhood marred by trauma and violence undercut Phillips’ promise of a fruitful life. Despite his obvious athletic gifts, a pattern of disturbing off-field behavior pushed Phillips out of the league and into legal trouble. In 2008, Lawrence Phillips entered Kern Valley State Prison. He would never get to see the outside again. In January of 2015, while awaiting trial for the alleged murder of his cell-mate, Phillips was found dead in his cell - a suspected suicide. To...
2016-01-2348 minEdge of SportsKareem Abdul-Jabbar: A Beautiful MindKareem Abdul-Jabbar is the consummate renaissance man of basketball. The all-time leading scorer in NBA history is also an author, historian, and now, a cultural commentator on the most hot-button political topics of the day. Dave Zirin traveled across the country and spoke with Kareem for the full hour, discussing his deep history of activism, scholarship and steadfast self-discovery. We’ll be releasing video of this interview at TheNation.com in the coming weeks.3:28 article: “These Terrorist Attacks Are Not About Religion”5:52 Trump on Muslims6:50 Are you a Bernie Sanders supporter?8:03 Kareem in Brazil9:40 The Obama era10:30 article: “This is the differ...
2016-01-1349 minEdge of SportsNext Week: Kareem Abdul-JabbarThis week, Edge of Sports is traveling to LA to interview Kareem Abdul-Jabbar. Instead of taking the week off, Dave Zirin is dropping into your podcast feed to call for questions and give listeners a window into his thought process going into this once-in-a-lifetime interview. Dave also reads his current column from The Nation about Lebron James and the competing opinions about his lack of comment after Tamir Rice’s police killers scandalously avoided indictment. Finally, the ‘Just Stand Up’ award goes to Baltimore-based activist Tariq Touré who started this conversation by thinking up the hashtag #NoJusticeNoLeBron.--Column: “The Tactical Intellige...
2016-01-0615 minEdge of SportsThe Soul of Sports After Paris & Beirut“Intellectual and material walls are not the way to progress.” The words of today’s guest, George Atallah from the NFLPA, in response to knee-jerk bigotry against refugees after attacks in Paris and Beirut. Atallah’s own family fled Lebanon’s civil war for the United States decades ago and he denounces passionately, as Aaron Rogers did on Sunday, the prejudicial ideologies which lead to hardened hearts and wrongheaded policies on all sides. Then our host, Dave Zirin, expounds on the conscientious sentiment so aptly expressed by French Forward for the Utah Jazz, Rudy Gobert, when he tweeted: “Ne Vous Laissez Pas...
2015-11-1935 minEdge of SportsChuck D of Public Enemy on LeBron, Ali, ... and Pilates?The all-new Edge of Sports podcast is here, and our host Dave Zirin calls on the Hard Rhymer himself, the legendary Chuck D of Public Enemy, to bless the first show. As it turns out, this activist lion of hip-hop actually had boyhood dreams of becoming a sportscaster. Chuck tells the story of Public Enemy’s national breakthrough on Soul Train, revels in the greatness of Ali, praises LeBron James as a modern-day thought leader, and then…Chuck D bigs up his pilates instructor. Also in the studio is Christian Dotson-Pierson, a PhD candidate at Howard University. Her focus is medi...
2015-11-0435 minEdge of SportsEdge of Sports Podcast Thu, 15 Jan 2015Episode 242: BOOM! Dave has another fantastic show for you this week, right ahead of MLK Jr. Weekend. Dave and Coach explain how the great Civil Rights leader felt about sports. Then, Coach introduces the first edition of “Zirin’s Zingers” as he peppers Dave with loads of questions that he did not prepare for ahead of time. Everything from the NFL’s Rooney Rule to Kobe’s assertion that the Spurs won the NBA title because of foreign talent. Michael X Ferraro, author of Circus Catch, details his satire on the world of sports (sorry, Cleveland, you still can’t win). Hear a...
2015-01-1541 min
The Kaufman ShowDave and Jay with Dave Zirin on Game night OTDave and Jay in conversation with Dave Zirin, from edge of sports, regarding the 10 year anniversary of Pat Tillman's death.
2014-04-2317 min