

30 for 30 Podcasts
ESPN
Original audio documentaries from the makers of the acclaimed 30 for 30 film series, featuring stories from the world of sports and beyond. 30 for 30 offers captivating storytelling for sports fans and general interest listeners alike, going beyond the field to explore how sports, competition, athleticism and adventure affect our lives and our world. Sports stories like you've never heard before.
Episodes
Mentioned books

Dec 14, 2020 • 2min
TRAILER: MARCH 11 2020
There has perhaps been no greater event in recent history that has so clearly underlined how integral sports are to our culture than the coronavirus pandemic has. March 11 2020 will tell the story of a seismic day that started in one reality and ended with a new one — the day the NBA shut down and the pandemic became real — as told by those who lived it. Full episode available December 21, 2020. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Jul 14, 2020 • 52min
HEAVY MEDALS Part 7: The Unraveling
The podcast delves into the intense coaching style of Martha, the challenges faced by gymnasts in gaining her approval, the aftermath of the Rio Olympics and shocking allegations against Larry Nasser, the lack of responsibility and accountability of USA Gymnastics, and the love for gymnastics and the impact of the Corroli system.

Jul 14, 2020 • 42min
HEAVY MEDALS Part 6: The Rise of Martha
Martha Karolyi, the former dominant force in gymnastics, aims to turn the United States into a gold medal-winning team. The podcast explores her transition from a mysterious figure to the national team coordinator. It discusses the change in leadership and the strict rules implemented under her regime. The struggles of gymnasts like Maddie Larson and the triumphs of Jordan Shin are highlighted. The chapter also addresses the allegations and responsibility in the world of gymnastics.

Jul 14, 2020 • 39min
HEAVY MEDALS Part 5: The Karolyi Way
After a disappointing performance at the 1999 World Championships, USA Gymnastics turns to Bela Karolyi to save the team. The podcast explores Karolyi's intense conditioning methods and the pressure faced by the gymnasts. It also discusses the Olympic selection process and the consequences Karolyi faces for failing to bring home medals. The podcast touches on the transition to Marta as coach and concerns about the impact of hard landings on athletes' bodies.

Jul 14, 2020 • 34min
HEAVY MEDALS Part 4: Home Games
Two gymnasts, Dominique Moceanu and Kerri Strug, strive for gold at the Atlanta Games. Dominique falls on vault, leaving Kerri to bring home the gold. The podcast explores their journey, coaching dynamics, and the pressure on Dominique. It also delves into the influence of renowned coach Bella Coroli and includes hotlines for sexual assault support.

Jul 14, 2020 • 35min
HEAVY MEDALS Part 3: The Bela Show
Gymnastics coach Bela faces accusations of abuse after his champion fails in the 1992 Olympics. The podcast explores the contrasting training systems between the US and Soviet Union, the intense rivalry between coaches Bela and Nuno, and Bela's unexpected retirement. It also discusses Bela's fame and media portrayal, as well as his return to coaching amidst growing scrutiny.

Jul 14, 2020 • 45min
HEAVY MEDALS Part 2: American Hustle
The podcast explores the journey of the Karolyis, their gymnastics empire, and their quest for a champion. It focuses on Mary Lou Retton's rise to fame and her impact on American gymnastics. It also delves into the roles of Bella and Marta Corolli, their meticulous shaping of young gymnasts, and Bella's dream of owning a ranch in Texas.

Jul 14, 2020 • 42min
HEAVY MEDALS Part 1: Made in Romania
Bela, a Romanian gymnastics coach, turns a 14-year-old Nadia Comaneci into a global symbol of excellence at the 1976 Olympics. The podcast explores the rise of Nadia and her coach's ambition for gold. It also discusses the impact of Nadia's victory on Romania during the Cold War and the glamour and harsh dictatorship of the time. The chapter ends with a thrilling escape attempt and Bella's unequal treatment of individuals.

Jul 7, 2020 • 4min
TRAILER: HEAVY MEDALS
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

Dec 2, 2019 • 49min
S6, E4: CURSED AND BLESSED
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.