Every 4 Years: An Unofficial Olympic and Paralympic Podcast

This week on the podcast, we follow the journey of Casey Ratzlaff, a 2020 Paralympic Wheelchair Tennis Player from Wichita, Kansas. Despite being born with Spina Bifida, Casey has accomplished incredible feats in the world of wheelchair tennis. Throughout the episode, we delve into his journey from Wichita to the US Open and eventually the 2020 Paralympics. Casey shares his experiences, triumphs, and challenges as he navigates the world of wheelchair tennis at the highest level. Furthermore, we learn about his determination to participate in both the Paris 2024 and LA 2028 Paralympics. Join us on this journey as we gain insight into the world of Paralympic Wheelchair Tennis through the eyes of Casey Ratzlaff. And as always, thank you for your support.   Casey Ratzlaff   www.caseyratzlaff.com Instagram: @caseyratzlaff_ Facebook: @RatzlaffCasey Twitter: @RatzlaffCasey Well Being Journal Sign up for Free and receive an email with our interview with an Olympian or Paralympian on Training/Nutrition/Mental Health https://wellbeingjournal.com/register/?level_id=5 Tim Loves the Olympics Instagram: @tltopodcast Twitter: @tltopodcast Facebook: @tltopodcast    

This week on the podcast, Part 2 of the Amanda McGrory journey. Amanda shares her story of participating in 4 Paralympics, winning 7 Paralympic Medals, and having to give her first medal back.  This is a two-part episode that delves deep into Amanda's journey, exploring the challenges she faced along the way and the hard work and dedication it took to achieve her goals. Listeners will be inspired by Amanda's tenacity and strength in overcoming adversity and achieving success. Join us as we embark on this incredible journey with Amanda McGrory. And as always, thank you for your support. Amanda McGrory Instagram: @alittlechipped Facebook: @ Amanda McGrory Twitter: @alittlechipped    Well Being Journal Sign up for Free and receive an email with our interview with an Olympian or Paralympian on Training/Nutrition/Mental Health https://wellbeingjournal.com/register/?level_id=5 Tim Loves the Olympics Instagram: @tltopodcast Twitter: @tltopodcast Facebook: @tltopodcast

This week on the podcast, we dive into the inspiring journey of Amanda McGrory, a 4X Paralympian and 7X Paralympic Medalist. Amanda shares her story of waking up one day at the age of 5 and finding herself unable to walk, with doctors initially blaming her for her condition. Despite this setback, Amanda persevered and went on to become a world-class athlete. This is a two-part episode that delves deep into Amanda's journey, exploring the challenges she faced along the way and the hard work and dedication it took to achieve her goals. Listeners will be inspired by Amanda's tenacity and strength in overcoming adversity and achieving success. Join us as we embark on this incredible journey with Amanda McGrory. And as always, thank you for your support.   Amanda McGrory Instagram: @alittlechipped Facebook: @ Amanda McGrory Twitter: @alittlechipped Tim Loves the Olympics Instagram: @tltopodcast Twitter: @tltopodcast Facebook: @tltopodcast

This week on the podcast, I share how receiving an Olympic pin as a child sparked my love for the Olympics, and how now I have the opportunity to give back by discussing Olympic pin collecting with experts in the field. The guests on the show include Scott Reed and Don Bigsby from the "Olympin Collectors Club" and Mario Simonson, the owner, and CEO of Honav USA. They discuss the history of Olympic pin collecting, the different types of pins, and tips for those who are interested in collecting. Overall, the episode provides a fascinating insight into the world of Olympic pin collecting and is a great listen for anyone who loves the Olympics or is interested in collecting memorabilia. And as always, thank you for your support Honav USA www.honavusa.com   Olympin Club www.olympinclub.com   Tim Loves the Olympics Instagram: @tltopodcast Twitter: @tltopodcast Facebook: @tltopodcast

This week on the podcast we talk with Michelle Dusserre Farrell, she's a 1984 Olympic Silver Medalist for the US in team gymnastics and current Athlete, Curatorial, and USOPM Programs at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum. The conversation delves into Farrell's Olympic journey in the 1980s, including the "Mary Lou Retton effect" on USA Gymnastics and her role in the 1986 Mitch Gaylord gymnastics movie classic "American Anthem." Listeners will also gain insight into Farrell's current role at the U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum, and the importance of preserving and celebrating the history of the Olympic and Paralympic movements. Overall, the episode offers a fascinating look into the world of elite sports and the efforts to commemorate its achievements. And as always, thank you for your support.   Michelle Dusserre Farrell Instagram - @babygym84 Twitter - @babygym84   U.S. Olympic & Paralympic Museum www.usopm.org Instagram - @USOPMuseum  Facebook –  @USOPMuseum  Twitter - @USOPMuseum    Tim Loves the Olympics Instagram: @tltopodcast Twitter: @tltopodcast Facebook: @tltopodcast    

This week on the Mini-Pod, the 2022-23 “Rivalry Series” USA vs. Canada in women's hockey. We talk with US coach John Wroblewski. And from team US Cayla Barnes, Kali Flanagan, and Megan Keller. From team Canada Sarah Nurse and Jocelyne Larocque. It’s a brief history and interesting conversation on the importance of this series and what it has done for women’s hockey all over the world. And if you like the podcast. Please leave a review. It really helps.   And as always, thank you for your support.   United States women's national ice hockey team www.teamusa.usahockey.com   Canada women's national ice hockey team www.hockeycanada.ca/en-ca/team-canada/women   Jocelyne Larocque Instagram: @jocelarocque3   Sarah Nurse   Instagram: @nursey16   Cayla Barnes Instagram: @cayla_barnes27   Kali Flanagan Instagram: @k_flan10 Tiktok -@kaliflangan_   Megan Keller Instagram: @megankeller4 The Keller & Kess Show Instagram:@kellerandkesshow   Tim Loves the Olympics Instagram - @tltopodcast Twitter - @tltopodcast Facebook -@tltopodcast

Do you believe in miracles? YES!! Two of my dream guests are on the podcast this week. From the 1980 US Olympic gold medal-winning hockey team, John Harrington and Rob McClanahan. They are here to promote the Miracle on Ice Fantasy Camp coming to Lake Placid in April. Plus, I get to fanboy out and ask all those questions I’ve been dying to know. Like, what are “Brooksisms”, walk me through the last 10 minutes of the “Miracle on Ice” game. And of course, Where do you keep your gold medal? If you’re a fan of the 1980 US hockey team like I am, I hope you enjoy this podcast and learn some interesting things about these amazing players.  And as always, thank you for your support.   Miracle on Ice Fantasy Camp www.Miracleonicefantasycamp.com Instagram - @1980miraclehockeyteam Facebook – @1980hockeycamp Twitter - @1980hockeycamp   Tim Loves the Olympics Instagram: @tltopodcast Twitter: @tltopodcast Facebook: @tltopodcast

Welcome to season number 3 of the podcast. We are starting off this season with a two-part special episode with McKenzie Coan. Mckenzie is a 3x Paralympian and a 6x Paralympic medalist for the US in Swimming. McKenzie was diagnosed at 19 days old with a condition called Osteogenesis Imperfecta, otherwise known as brittle bone disease. This condition causes Mckenzie’s bone to break easily, doctors said that McKenzie would never walk, never sit upright, never talk, and maybe not even live a very long life. Well, you know this podcast is a two-parter. So McKenzie can talk and her never take no for an answer attitude is truly inspiring. Please enjoy part 2 of the McKenzie Coan journey. McKenzie Coan Instagram: @McKenzie_Coan Facebook: @McKenzieCoan Twitter: @McKenzie_Coan Website: www.mckenziecoan.com Book: Breaking Free: Shattering Expectations and Thriving With Ambition in Pursuit of Gold https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Free-McKenzie-Coan/dp/1735919322/ref=zg_bsnr_16674_7?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=QN5DWMBQBCYHFWGCA0ZT    Tim Loves the Olympics Instagram: @tltopodcast Twitter: @tltopodcast Facebook: @tltopodcast  

Welcome to season number 3 of the podcast. We are starting off this season with a two-part special episode with McKenzie Coan. Mckenzie is a 3x Paralympian and a 6x Paralympic medalist for the US in Swimming. McKenzie was diagnosed at 19 days old with a condition called Osteogenesis Imperfecta, otherwise known as brittle bone disease. This condition causes Mckenzie’s bone to break easily, doctors said that McKenzie would never walk, never sit upright, never talk, and maybe not even live a very long life. This is a journey story you won’t soon forget. And as always, thank you for your support.   McKenzie Coan Instagram: @McKenzie_Coan Facebook: @McKenzieCoan Twitter: @McKenzie_Coan Website: www.mckenziecoan.com Book: Breaking Free: Shattering Expectations and Thriving With Ambition in Pursuit of Gold https://www.amazon.com/Breaking-Free-McKenzie-Coan/dp/1735919322/ref=zg_bsnr_16674_7?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1&refRID=QN5DWMBQBCYHFWGCA0ZT   Tim Loves the Olympics Instagram: @tltopodcast Twitter: @tltopodcast Facebook: @tltopodcast

This week, we travel to Canada and talk to Canadian Paralympic rower Jacob Wassermann. Jacob was not always a para-athlete. He was once a goalie for the Humboldt Broncos, a Canadian junior "A" ice hockey team from Humboldt, Saskatchewan. In 2018, the Broncos were traveling to a playoff game in Nipawin when the team bus collided with a semi-truck. This incident changed Jacob, the Broncos, and the city of Humboldt forever.   Jacob's recovery journey has been one of incredible resilience and inspiration. Despite the physical and emotional challenges, Jacob found a new path in the sport of rowing. His determination and spirit led him to embrace this new challenge, ultimately earning a spot on the Canadian 2024 Paralympic Rowing Team. In this episode, Jacob shares his story of recovery, the support he received, and how he discovered rowing. From the tragedy that forever changed his life to finding hope and purpose in a new sport, Jacob’s journey is a testament to the power of the human spirit. As always, thank you for your support and it’s a good day to be a Bronco.   Jacob Wassermann Instagram: @maddywassermann @humboldtbroncossjhl  https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Humboldt_Broncos www.humboldtbroncos.com   Every 4 Years Podcast Instagram: @every4yearspodcast Twitter: @every4yearspodcast Facebook: @every4yearspodcast

This week on the "Every 4 Years" Podcast, we are honored to have Anita Alvarez, a 3-time Olympian for the US in Artistic Swimming (formerly known as Synchronized Swimming). Imagine being known more for a photo capturing one of your lowest moments than for your incredible achievements as a world-renowned athlete. That's Anita's story. At the 2022 World Aquatics Championships in Budapest, Anita fainted in the pool at the end of her solo free routine and sank to the bottom. Her coach, Andrea Fuentes, heroically jumped in to rescue her. From this near-death experience to her remarkable journey of qualifying for her third Olympics in Paris, we cover it all. Anita's journey in Artistic Swimming began early. She competed in the 2012 U.S. Olympic Team Trials as a 14-year-old. Her passion for the sport runs in the family; her mom competed in the 1984 U.S. Olympic Trials with her duet and placed 7th. We also explore Anita's personal connection to the iconic 1980 Olympic "Miracle on Ice" hockey game in Lake Placid, NY, through her grandfather. Join us as we dive deep into the resilience, determination, and inspiring story of Anita Alvarez. This is an episode you will want to listen to over and over. Thank you for tuning in to the "Every 4 Years" Podcast, where we bring you the stories that define Olympic greatness.   Anita Alvarez Instagram: @anitaaalvarez   Every 4 Years Podcast Instagram: @every4yearspodcast Twitter: @every4yearspodcast Facebook: @every4yearspodcast

  This week, we dive into the inspiring journey of Jake Williams, a remarkable individual whose resilience and dedication have defined his path to greatness. Join us as we sit down with Jake Williams, a 2-time Paralympian and 2-time Paralympic gold medalist for Team USA. At just 16 years old, Jake's life took an unexpected turn when he was struck by a car while riding his bike, leaving him paralyzed. Amidst the challenges of recovery, Jake found renewed hope and purpose through wheelchair basketball, inspired by a visit from Chris Okon, a player from the University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. Against all odds, Jake remarkably took up wheelchair basketball only four months after his life-altering accident. His journey is a testament to the power of determination and hard work, demonstrating the profound impact of believing in oneself and striving relentlessly towards excellence. As Jake prepares for the upcoming Summer Paralympics in Paris, we explore the highs and lows of his athletic career, the lessons learned along the way, and the unwavering support that has fueled his remarkable achievements. Jake's story is not just about overcoming adversity—it's about embracing challenges, pushing boundaries, and inspiring others with every hoop he sinks and every medal he wins. Tune in to this episode as we celebrate Jake's journey, his unyielding spirit, and the profound message that with perseverance and passion, anything is possible. Thank you for joining us on the "Every 4 Years" Podcast, where we bring you the stories that define the heart of the Paralympic movement.   Jake Williams Instagram: @jakeusa2 Facebook: @jakewilliams     Every 4 Years Podcast Instagram: @every4yearspodcast Twitter: @every4yearspodcast Facebook: @every4yearspodcast

Welcome to a thrilling episode of the "Every 4 Years" Podcast! This week, we're honored to sit down with Monica Abbott, a powerhouse in the world of Olympic softball, boasting an illustrious career spanning over 17 years. Join us as Monica shares her incredible journey, highlighted by two Olympic Silver Medals earned 12 years apart with Team USA. Renowned for her exceptional skill and dedication, Monica delves into what it took to establish herself as one of the most dominant players in the game, reflecting on the highs and challenges of her remarkable career. Monica also provides an exclusive insight into the upcoming "Monica Abbott's Speed Retreat" this summer, promising firsthand knowledge and expertise from her hall-of-fame career. Discover the secrets behind her enduring success and what drives her relentless pursuit of excellence. As the conversation unfolds, we explore Monica's thoughts on the possibility of returning to the mound for the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles—a decision that might just surprise you. Her passion for the sport and commitment to pushing boundaries continue to inspire both fans and aspiring athletes worldwide. Don't miss this captivating episode as we celebrate Monica Abbott's enduring legacy, her insights into elite-level competition, and the future of softball on the Olympic stage. Thank you for tuning in to the "Every 4 Years" Podcast, where we bring you the stories that define Olympic greatness.   Monica Abbott  Instagram: @monicaabbott X: @monicaabbott Facebook: @monicaabbott Website: www.monicaabbott.com   Monica Abbott’s Speed Retreat https://www.monicaabbott.com/ma14-experience-retreat   Every 4 Years Podcast Instagram: @every4yearspodcast Twitter: @every4yearspodcast Facebook: @every4yearspodcast  

 Welcome, Welcome, Welcome!!! Welcome to the "Every 4 Years" Podcast: An Unofficial Olympic and Paralympic Podcast, where we embark on a journey through the lives of past, present, and future Olympians and Paralympians, along with their coaches and families. Join me, your host Tim Puttre, as we uncover their inspiring stories and remarkable journeys. I may not be an Olympian, Paralympian, journalist, or expert—but I am deeply passionate about these incredible athletes and the narratives that define them. This podcast is dedicated to sharing their triumphs, challenges, and the sheer determination that propels them to greatness. In each episode, we explore a diverse array of sports, like the Luge, Wheelchair Rugby, and Artistic Swimming (formerly known as Synchronized Swimming) We've had the privilege of conversing with legends such as Greg Louganis, Dominique Dawes, Tatyana McFadden, Katie Ledecky, Oksana Masters, and even members of the iconic 1980 US Miracle on Ice hockey team like Rob McClanahan and John Harrington. Join us as we delve deep into the hearts and minds of these extraordinary individuals. Whether you're a seasoned fan or new to the world of Olympic and Paralympic sports, there's something here for everyone to enjoy and be inspired by. Stay connected with us on social media @every4yearspodcast on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter for updates and additional content. Subscribe now and get ready to immerse yourself in the captivating world of Olympic and Paralympic greatness. Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey—we can't wait to share these stories with you.      Every 4 Years Podcast Instagram: @every4yearspodcast Twitter: @every4yearspodcast Facebook: @every4yearspodcast    

  SPECIAL  mini-pod this week with 4x Olympian and 5x Olympic medalist for the US in diving, the “GOAT”, Greg Louganis. Greg joins us to talk about the Greg Louganis Auction and tell some personal stories about some of the personal items he has up for auction and sale. The auction runs from November 11th – December 4th, 2022. Listen to the podcast while you view the items at www.greglouganis.com . And hear Greg tells some great stories about some of the over 50 personal items up for auction. That you could own. And as always, thank you for your support.   Greg Louganis The Greg Louganis Auction -  www.greglouganis.com Instagram - @greglouganis Facebook – greglouganis Twitter - @greglouganis   Some of the proceeds from the auction go to these great charities   Damien Center - Indiana's oldest and largest Aids service organization. www.damien.org   Children’s Rights - Protecting kids, providing hope www.childrensrights.org   Tim Loves the Olympics Instagram: @tltopodcast Twitter: @tltopodcast Facebook: @tltopodcast