Addressing the lack of support for pregnant athletes

The podcast episode discussed the experience of a track and field athlete who faced challenges and discrimination while trying to start a family. The athlete shared how there has been a culture of silence around pregnancy and starting families in the sport, both in America and globally. She witnessed friends struggling with hiding pregnancies in order to secure contracts, and contracts being paused or reduced due to pregnancy. The athlete highlighted the lack of support and protections for female athletes who become mothers, leading her to advocate for change. She negotiated with her sponsor, Nike, for maternal protections and a contract that addressed the issue. After speaking out and writing an op-ed, Nike eventually changed their policy and now offers 18 months of protection for female athletes.