Paris 2024: Simone Biles, The Pommel Horse Guy, Team USA and More

Summer Olympics 2024

In this episode of Running It Back, Tarlin Ray and Mike Palmer dive into the 2024 Paris Olympics, exploring the captivating stories and performances that have captured the world’s attention. We discuss the remarkable comeback of Simone Biles, highlighting her resilience and continued dominance in gymnastics. Check out our episode about Biles at the Tokyo Olympics for more on this. We also shine a spotlight on the “pommel horse guy,” Steven Nedoroscik, and his crucial role in securing a bronze medal for the U.S. men’s gymnastics team. And as promised, here’s Christopher Guest and Martin Short from SNL doing their legendary Men’s Synchronized Swimming Skit back in the day.

We explore the impressive showing of host country France, particularly in swimming, where Léon Marchand is making waves with his performances. We touch on the heartwarming sportsmanship displayed by Michael Phelps as he cheers on Marchand’s success.

The episode also covers the controversies and dynamics within Team USA basketball, analyzing player selections and on-court chemistry. We discuss the unexpected benching of star players and the adaptability of others to the international style of play.

Throughout the episode, we draw parallels between Olympic team dynamics and effective management in professional settings, offering insights on specialization, individual contributions, and team cohesion. We wrap up by expressing our excitement for the upcoming track and field events and looking ahead to the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.

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Simone Biles and the Tokyo Olympics

Simone Biles

Tarlin and Mike are back to talk about the 2021 Olympics in Tokyo. What initially may have touched on the thrill of victory and the agony of defeat across the full span of athletic competition has become a global conversation about lessons to be learned from Simone Biles’ decision to opt-out of the Finals of the Team All-Around, the Individual All-Around, and several of the individual events in Women’s Gymnastics.

What lessons can be learned about empathy, grace, and psychological well-being based on what has happened in Tokyo and how the conversation has reverberated around the world. Does it make sense for us to equate Simone’s decision with taking a “Mental Health Day” or is there more going on here? And what are the ramifications of using elite athletes performing at or close to perfection as models for us to learn from in our day-to-day lives?

It’s a zeitgeisty conversation that we’re happy to lean into. We hope you enjoy listening!

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