For 40 years, as athletes came and went, there was one constant presence in Olympic gymnastics: Bela and Martha Karolyi — the most successful coaches in the sport's history, and the most controversial. The Karolyis wielded unprecedented power and became more recognizable characters than many of their gymnasts. Generations of gymnasts trained at their isolated ranch outside of Houston, where the Karolyis were champion-making teachers to some and tormentors to others. In front of the cameras, Bela was the bear-hugging motivator who pushed his athletes to the limit and Martha was the silent partner who demanded perfection. From the 1970s through the 1990s, the Karolyis coached some of the greatest names in the sport, from Nadia Comaneci to Mary Lou Retton and Kerri Strug. The couple then took over the U.S. national team program that featured Olympic champions like Carly Patterson and Simone Biles. Few dared challenge the Karolyis’ coaching methods, and those who did were ignored or ostracized. But in 2016, their accomplishments came under fire as the extent of Larry Nassar’s predatory sexual abuse was exposed. "Heavy Medals: Inside the Karolyi Gymnastics Empire" is a 7-part series from 30 for 30 Podcasts, in collaboration with espnW. All seven episodes available July 14th. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Explore the troubled history and eventual triumph of the Louisiana Superdome, from the construction problems to its role as a refuge during Hurricane Katrina. Learn about New Orleans' journey to secure a professional sports franchise, the repercussions of Hurricane Katrina, and the dire situation in the overwhelmed Superdome. Discover Tom Benson's desire for a new stadium and the transformative impact of this iconic building on the city's identity and economy.

In this podcast, the scandal in South American soccer involving Brazil and Chile is discussed, focusing on the intense match in Santiago. Controversial incidents in Latin American soccer, clever football match tactics, doubts surrounding player injuries, and the aftermath of the incident involving Rojas are explored. The value of a photograph and how professional athletes negotiate to achieve success in soccer are also discussed.

This podcast explores the story of Kari Swenson, a biathlete who was kidnapped during a trail run. It discusses her recovery and determination to return to competitive sports, as well as the media's portrayal of the kidnapping. The episode highlights the inclusion of women in biathlon and the surprising bronze medal win by the women's team at the world championships.

Professional basketball players Diana Taurasi and Sue Bird experience the lavish treatment in Russian basketball, but must reckon with the shadowy past of their benefactor. Topics include disappointments with low WNBA salaries, the challenges of transitioning between American and international basketball, and the mystery surrounding their benefactor's wealth and connections to Russian crime.

The new season of 30 for 30 Podcasts launches November 12th, with four new stories spanning four sports and three continents. The new episodes will tell a range of fascinating stories about kidnappings, scandal, natural disasters, hope, and recovery, and span the globe from Moscow to Montana, Chile to New Orleans. More at 30for30podcasts.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

This podcast explores the final court showdown between Donald and Shelly Sterling in the ongoing scandal. It includes an interview with Donald defending himself and attacking Magic Johnson, reveals Shelly's strategy to remove Donald and sell the Clippers, and highlights her revenge against V. Stiviano. The podcast ends with acknowledgements and announcements.

The podcast discusses the fallout of the Donald Sterling scandal in the NBA, including unity against racism, uncertainty upon returning to Los Angeles, the impact on sponsorships, seeking racial justice, Adam Silver's investigation, and Shelley Sterling's presence at a basketball game.

The podcast discusses the rise of Donald and Shelly Sterling, their reinvention, and becoming the biggest residential landlords in LA. Topics include their name change, passing as white, discrimination lawsuits, housing discrimination, controversial remarks, and Donald Sterling's upbringing.

The podcast discusses the rise of the Lakers and their showtime experience in the late 1970s, as well as Donald Sterling's purchase of the San Diego Clippers and his lack of commitment to building a successful team. It also highlights Sterling's uncomfortable interactions with players and his desire for attention and validation.