Rising Phoenix: What Does It Take?

Live in Paris with Ezra Frech on how it feels to win gold, his mission to normalize disability at scale and how the Paralympics will change the world.

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Episode notes

Star Paralympian and Angel City Sports co-founder, Ezra Frech, sat down for a special live show bonus episode in Paris with Matt “The Armless Archer” Stutzman and legendary Olympian Michael Johnson. This week, both Ezra and Matt won their first gold medals at the Paralympic Games. They reflect on their experiences and describe how it feels to join the “gold medalist" club alongside Michael.


Looking to the future, Michael emphasises the power of storytelling in building awareness and promoting Paralympians to new audiences as Ezra and Matt look forward to the potential impact from what comes next, a Summer Paralympics in their home country.   


In Rising Phoenix: What Does It Take? Matt and Michael explore the hard work, drive, dedication and sacrifice required to become an elite Paralympian.


Brought to you by the creators of Emmy Award winning Rising Phoenix. Supported by global partner Procter & Gamble - the makers of Oral-B, Pampers and Tide.


“Rising Phoenix” - Written by Daniel Pemberton, Keith Jones, Toni Hickman and George Doman. Performed by Daniel Pemberton, Toni Hickman, georgetragic, and Keith Jones. Published by Alika’s Publishing, Doman Development, Moncur Street Music Limited, administered by peermusic (UK) Ltd.


This is a Harder Than You Think production.


You can watch the video version of this episode on the Rising Phoenix Youtube channel here.


Hosts: Michael Johnson and Matt Stutzman

Producer: Calum Campbell and Barnaby Spurrier 

Editor: Dennis Mabry 

Additional Video Production: Nic Woinilowicz

Executive Producer: Greg Nugent



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