The Drive Phase

In this episode, Physiotherapist and Clinical Director at Physiotherapy & Optimal PerformanceServices (POPS) Marita Marshall, discusses Covid-19- Physical Therapy and Return to Sport in the Caribbean. The Barbadian shares her thoughts on the role of physiotherapy in athlete development as we look to the safe return of sport in the region. Marita has served as Physiotherapist for Cricket West Indies women’s team and gives advice to athletes, coaches and officials on ways to ensure th...

In this episode, Olympic Discus throwers Fedrick Dares and Traves Smikle discuss their career as professional athletes. The Jamaicans share their plans for the 2021 season and how they overcome struggles to be at the top of the event. Traves and Fedrick talk about their brotherly bond outside of the ring but their fierce competition over the years. They also speak about:The role of coach Julian Robinson on their livesOvercoming injuries over the yearsThe impact of the annual High School ...

In the “Play of the Day”, Dalton speaks with Sports Producer and Commentator, Donald Oliver. In this episode, Donald discusses sport journalism and commentary in a changing world. He shares his inspiration for his documentary, “Alia: Darling of the Pool”, the production of the project and his aspiration to produce more documentaries locally. Donald also speaks about:How he got started in sport journalism The importance of sport commentary to broadcasting Challenges of mode...

In the “Play of the Day”, Dalton speaks with World Championship and PanAmerican Triple Jump silver medallist Shanieka Ricketts. In this episode, Shanieka discusses the phases of her career. She explained why she chose to specialise in the triple jump instead of the long jump and the level of discipline that it takes to master her event.Shanieka also speaks about:Her decision to attend the Vere Technical High School despite being from St ThomasHer student-athlete experience abroad and the moti...

In this episode, Rosheika is joined by Jamaican distance flag-bearer Aisha Praught-Leer OLY, Media and Communication Specialist Marsha Boyce, Sports Journalist, Karen Madden and Logistics Manager, Dr Carol Long to discuss Issues and Opportunities for Women in Sport in the Caribbean. They share the challenges that female athletes face from adolescence to professional athletes including wage disparity, visibility and sport administration. They also speak about:The cultural shift that is ne...

In our International Women's Day Feature, FIFA Assistant Referee, Stephanie-Dale Yee Sing discusses her journey. She described her experience as an assistant referee at the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup in France. She shares how she got started in refereeing and her decision to choose to become a professional referee over her football career. Stephanie also speaks about:Some challenges she has faced over the years in her careerHow she has overcame the obstacles that come with being an assi...

In this episode, Cricket West Indies player and Jamaica Scorpion captain Rovman Powell discusses his recent his cricketing journey including some of his personal highs and lows. He also shares how the pandemic has impacted sports in the region including the teams he has played with since 2020. He speaks about the performance of the Jamaica Scorpions in the 2021 Super50 Cup.Rovman also speaks about:His personal contribution to the Jamaica Scorpions so far in the 2021 Super50 Cup The...

In the “Play of the Day”, Dalton speaks with president of the PanAm Sports Athlete Commission and Olympian Aliann Pompey.In this episode, Aliann discusses Athletes Rights and Voice in Sports. She explained why she started Aliann Pompey Invitational and the event's progress over the years. She shares how she adjusted to performing at the professional level and her experience at her first appearance at a Summer Olympics in Sydney, Australia. Aliann also speaks about:Women being represented...

Producer, Rosheika Grant returns for The Producer’s Corner to discuss “How lack of competition is affecting sport in the Caribbean”.In this episode, Dalton and Rosheika discuss How lack of competition is affecting sport in the Caribbean. They share their views on the various issues and challenges in the lack of competition across all sport locally and regionally. The duo also speaks about:Impact of state-enforced curfews and health protocols on the ability to train due to inadequate faci...

In this episode, Regional Development Manager - Caribbean and Americas, Commonwealth Games Federation, Ryan O. Brathwaite discusses Sport for Development in the Caribbean: The Way Forward. He speaks about the benefits of sport in society in relation to health and wellness, education and development overall. He shares how sport being used as a development tool can reduce Noncommunicable diseases.Ryan also speaks about:He shares the challenges to sport being viewed as a developmental tool in th...

In this episode, our guest, Sport Commentator, Donald Smith joins host Dalton Myers and producer, Rosheika Grant to discuss “The Year in Review of Sports in 2020”.In this episode, Machel, Dalton and Rosheika discuss their top moments in sports in 2020, the disappointments of the year regionally and internationally and also their expectations and hopes for 2021 in the sporting arena. They discuss the cancellation and postponements of major sporting events in Jamaica as well as regional and glo...

In this episode, Olympian Alia Atkinson discusses her historical journey in swimming. She speaks about her early interest in sport and her decision to focusing on swimming. She discusses the impact of the pandemic on her mentally and her initial goals for the year. She also shares how her philanthropic efforts which are closely tied to swimming.Alia also speaks about:How differently she approaches swimming comparing when she started versus now What it was like competing in the Internatio...

In this episode, the return of the Producer’s Corner sees Host, Dalton Myers and Producer, Rosheika Grant joined by Football Analyst, Machel Turner to discuss The State of Local and International Football . They share their views on the development of Jamaica’s young footballers as sport administrators deal with the pandemic and the postponement of football locally. They also discuss the route to sustainability for local football clubs and the importance of developing structured youth t...

In this episode, Executive Director of the Caribbean Regional Anti-Doping Organization (RADO), Dr Sasha Sutherland discusses The Fight Against Doping in Sports. She shares her views on the growth of Caribbean Regional Anti-Doping Organization since its establishment 15 years ago in terms of capacity building and its partnerships with Caribbean countries in the implementation of drug control programmes. She also addresses the challenges that the organisation has faced such as travelling across...

As we start a new season of The Drive Podcast, we have exciting new segments including “On the Sideline”, “Play of the Day” and “Podcast Pick”. In “On the sideline”, Dalton will be addressing topical issues in the sporting industry. In the “Play of the Day” he speaks with Olympian Yohan Blake.In this episode, our guest, Yohan Blake discusses Blake: The Past, Present and the Future. He speaks about the new club new club, TITANS International, that he is currently training with. He shares that ...

Creating a Safe Space: Safeguarding our Children in Sports WebinarIn this episode, The Drive Phase Media’s Webinar under the theme, “Creating a Safe Space: Safeguarding our Children in Sports” is presented. The webinar was designed to discuss ways stakeholders can contribute to child protection and safeguarding of youth in sports. It aimed to formulate solutions designed to encourage everyone to do their part to keep sport safe. The webinar’s objective is also to assist sport-based initiative...

In this episode, Commonwealth Games Federation CEO, David Grevemberg discusses Leadership, Culture and Sport - Changing the Game􏰄. He shares his view on the need for diversity/inclusion given the geographical and historical structure of the Commonwealth Games Federation and importance of sports in strengthening the entire Commonwealth.David also speaks about:How the CGF is striving to remain relevant as more competitions emerge in track and field worldHow the CGF plans to adapt to the changes...

Guest: Elaine Thompson HerahDouble Olympic ChampionIn this episode, Elaine discusses Sprinting Into History. She speaks about her achievement in the 100m and 200m at the 2016 Summer Olympic Games in Rio and her mental readiness as she prepared for the Olympic Games after dealing with an injury. Elaine also speaks about:Her interest in track and field from a young age and her early life in Banana Ground, Manchester and how it impacted her lifeHer participation in the Boys and Girls Champi...

Guest: Warren WeirOlympic Bronze MedallistIn this episode, Warren discusses Weirz World: Athlete and entrepreneur. He speaks about his bronze medal placement in Jamaica’s historic 1-2-3 sweep in the 2012 Summer Games 200m final. He shares about his lessons learnt in his first professional season in 2011 and how it impacted his approach to the 2012 season.Warren also speaks about:How his life changed after being a part of the historic 200m 1-2-3 sweep.His silver medal in the 2013 World Champio...

Guest: Don AndersonSports Administrator In this episode, Don Anderson discusses the management side of the Olympic Games. He shares his favourite Olympic Games and the type of planning that goes into managing a country’s team going to the Olympic Games. He also spoke about the role of the Chef de Mission and part of Jamaica management team, for five Olympic Games. Don also speaks about:His first time as a part of Jamaican’s management team for the 1988 Summer Olympic Games in Seoul,...

Guest: Toni-Ann WilliamsOlympian GymnastIn this episode, Toni-Ann discusses her historical journey. The Olympians shares her emotions when she learnt she had qualified to represent Jamaica at the Rio 2016 Summer Games. She also speaks about family’s support in her athletic journey especially her mom’s level of involvement in her achievements.Toni-Ann also discusses:Her decision at age 15 to compete for Jamaica even though she was not born in Jamaica. Wanting to use her success and Olympi...

Guest: Ricardo MakynChief Photo Editor at The Jamaica GleanerIn this episode, Ricardo Makyn discusses Olympic moments through his lens. He speaks about how he developed his interest in photography after working a summer job at a photo studio and studying and being trained in photography via mail when he started in the late 1990s. Ricardo shares: How his career starting at the Sunday Herald helped to develop his storytelling skills as a photographer. The type of preparation that...

Guest: Lance WhittakerSports Broadcaster and CommentatorIn this episode, Lance discusses his decades of experience in sports broadcasting. He speaks about landing his dream job as a sports journalist and the various changes in sports broadcasting since he started his career in 1984. He also shares his highest and lowest moments covering Caribbean in the several Olympic Games.Lance also discussed: His respect for fellow commentator Hubert Lawrence and what it is like working with hi...

In this Episode of the Drive Phase Podcast , do another version of our newest feature “Producer’s Corner”. Our show Producer Rosheika Grant joints host Dalton to discuss some local, regional and international sporting issues. Rosheika is an avid sport fan and has worked in media and communications ever since she graduated University. She has also been the producer for this podcast since inception. They discuss, amongst other things:Return of International Football West Indies C...

In this episode, Marketing & Communications Specialist Carole Beckford discusses her storied experience within the sporting industry. Carole, who served as Publicist for Usain Bolt, discusses her start in Sports Journalism as well as tips for persons wanting to get into the sporting Industry. She also speaks about her time as an educator in Jamaica and Bahamas. Carole also spoke about:The importance of building a network as you seek to establish yourself in the sporting industry and ...

In this episode, Hubert discusses historical moments in sports and future of Track and Field. He shares how he got started as a journalist and also as a commentator in the 1980s. He also speaks about his passion for track and field and his views on his role as an analyst and commentator in bringing sports to life for listeners and viewers. Hubert shares his views on the future of Jamaican track and field. He highlights several young Jamaican track field male and female sprinters such as ...

In this Episode of the Drive Phase Podcast , we have we start a new feature called the “Producer's Corner”. Our show's Producer, Rosheika Grant joins host Dalton to discuss some local, regional and international sport talking points. Rosheika is an avid sport fan and has worked in media and communications ever since she graduated University. She has also been the producer for this podcast since inception.They discuss:Local and International Football postponementsCricket- The Chris Gayle ...

In our new episode, Dalton speaks with the Olympian Yona Knight-Wisdom about his journey as an international diver. Yona spoke about the success of competing at the 2016 Rio Olympic followed by the disappointment of not medalling in the 2018 Commonwealth Games and the changes he made to his coaching team and training sites following the Games. He spoke candidly about some of his best moments as well as one of the lowest moments of his career- FINA Diving World Cup 2014 Shanghai. There a...

In this episode, David and Julian discuss the impact of the shutdown and postponement of track and field events because of the COVID-19 pandemic. They speak about:The postponement of the Tokyo 2020 Summer OlympicsThe impact of the shutdown of training facilities on athletes’ fitness and preparation for competingThe financial impact of the shutdown and postponement of track and field eventsThe disparity in resources available to athletes in other countries and Jamaicans They also spo...

In this episode, Brian discusses the Postponement of the Tokyo 2020 Olympics because of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19 and the new date f the global championship. He speaks about the involvement of the National Olympic Committees and the Athletes Federation in the decision-making regarding the postponement of Tokyo 2020.Brian also discusses:The impact of the postponement of Tokyo 2020 on the dates of other global sporting championships including the 2021 Commonwea...

This year’s International Women’s Day is celebrated under the theme “Each for Equal”, In this this our special IWD episode we talk with Trishana McGowan. Trishana is a sports reporter and producer at the RJRGleaner Group. She talks about her time as an athlete and experiences as a sport journalist. She discusses her career as a 400m hurdler and her decision to leave the sport. She also shares how her transition into sport journalism and her growth as a reporter and producer. Trishana als...

In this episode, Alexis Nunes, a Jamaican reporter and host for ESPN FC and ESPNcricinfo speaks about her journey as a sport journalist. She shares how her interest in sports developed, attending media school and her start as a reporter and producer at SportsMax Limited. She shares about being mentored by Simon Crosskill and working alongside former West Indies cricketers Jeffrey Dujon and Wavell Hinds. She also discusses her experience working with colleagues such Craig Burley at ESPN....

In this episode, Sport Commentator and Journalist Ricardo Chambers talks about Jamaica track & field readiness and expectations for Tokyo 2020. Ricardo starts off by giving us his background in sports, being mentored by the late Tony Young and his role as a story teller in the media landscape. He also shares about his transition from RJRGleaner to SportsMax Limited, learning from the different perspectives by working with individuals such as Lance Whittaker and Donald Oliver and achieving...

In Episode 19 of the Drive Phase Podcast Julian, Dalton, and Sheldon look back at the 2019 Sports Year.Julian and Dalton team up with University of the West Indies, Mona student Sheldon Bent to discuss some of the sporting highlights of 2019. Sheldon, a UWI Peer Leader, is also a ‘Sport Politics and Society’ student at UWI. Meanwhile, Julian who joined us in Episode 9 , is a sport enthusiast and educator. He has taught many University sport courses and modules at both the undergraduate and po...

In Episode 18 of The Drive Phase Podcast, we have a discussion with Randy Rowe on Athletes and their Financial Future. Randy has been doing investments successfully for some time now. He shares very applicable personal stories on investments, and uses that knowledge to encourage athletes to be more financially prudent. Randy discuss the Jamaica Stock Market, initial public offerings (IPOs) and general information about investing and saving. He also gives practical solutions to potential probl...

This episode features a very informative conversation with Sports Attorney-at-Law Dr. Emir Crowne.Emir delves into sport dispute resolution, unravelling some of the issues and challenges in the region. He also gives some advice to young lawyers who may want to pursue sports law as a viable profession. There were many good moments in this episode and I enjoyed discussing this potential career path for sport lawyers and tips on how they can develop. His suggestions include:1. Working with ...

In this episode, we look at The Business of Sport: My Journey with Juliet Cuthbert-Flynn. She talks about her journey as a professional athlete, beginning in St. Thomas, Jamaica to competing at the Olympic Games. We discuss her track rivalry with fellow sprinter Merlene Ottey as well as their sisterly bond; and how Merlene assisted her throughout her career and taught her many lessons about saving and investments. Juliet also talks about training and competition after pregnancy; dealing...

Jamaican gymnast Danusia Francis talks about her historic qualification for the Olympics in this episode. 'Nush' as she is affectionately known has qualified for Tokyo 2020 and will become only the second gymnast to represent Jamaica at the Olympics. She has previously represented Jamaica at the World Artistic Gymnastics Championships as well as the Pan American Games. She also shares some of her surprising exploits and interests away from the sport.

Dalton sits down with Founder and Managing Director for Breakthrough Communications, Carlette DeLeon to discuss Social Media and Sports. She shares several strategies for using technology to manage personal brands, and also discusses the advantages and disadvantages of social media for athletes and athlete support personnel.Carlette who is currently Administrative Manager and Public Relations Consultant at Headline Entertainment is also an author and columnist. She has been a featured present...

We look at The Impact of CPLT20 on the Caribbean with Caribbean Premier League (CPL) Head of PR & Communications, Peter Miller. Miller is a cricket writer and broadcaster, as well as author. We discuss the role of the franchise cricket in the region, and how cricketers can benefit career-wise. Miller also takes us through some of the strategies employed to promote the event to its regional and global fan base.

In this episode, we go straight to the source! Andre Lowe, the Sports Editor at The Gleaner Company (Media) Limited joins us to discuss Headlines and Deadlines - Capturing Historic Moments in Sports.Andre has over 15 years of experience in sports journalism, covering many international sporting events including three Olympic Games, four IAAF World Championships, two Commonwealth Games, several Diamond League Events and more recently 2019 FIFA Women’s World Cup. The four-time Press Assoc...

In this episode, we get the inside scoop on sponsorship in sport as Dalton and Andrei Roper discuss Sports Sponsorship and Branding in the Caribbean. Roper is currently the Brand Manager at Restaurants of Jamaica (franchise owners of KFC and Pizza Hut). The issues and challenges in sponsoring events locally are examined, while Roper also gives advice to sporting entities on how to develop their brands for sponsorship.Roper has twenty years’ experience in marketing, communications, sponso...

In this episode, Dalton sits down with Karen Madden, Senior Sports Reporter/Producer RJRGleaner to discuss Sports Journalism and her recent trip to the 2019 FIFA Women's World Cup to cover Jamaica's Reggae Girlz. Madden, who is also Co-Host for the "Girls Sports Club" on HITZ92 FM in Jamaica also makes some recommendations for women's football in Jamaica as well as advice to young sports journalists.

In this new feature Dalton and Cresser have a lively discussion on ICC Cricket World Cup, FIFA Woman's World Cup and Professionalisation of sports globally.

In this episode of The Drive Phase, we sit down with former Netball Jamaica President Marva Bernard to discuss the 'Business of Netball'. Bernard, who is the current President of the Americas Federation of Netball Associations (AFNA) reveals some of the issues and challenges faced in building netball in Jamaica and the region. We also examine some of the steps taken in adopting a more business-like approach to the sport to extend its reach and impact in the Jamaican sporting landscape.

In this episode of The Drive Phase, we get up close and personal with Olympian Sherone Simpson as she gives us an inside look at life as a professional athlete. Sherone takes us through the highs and lows of her career and shares how she remains focused despite the many challenges. Her pregnancy, injuries, and returning an adverse analytical finding were all on the table for discussion. You might think nothing trumps an Olympic medal-winning performance - but think again!

President and CEO of West Indies Players' Association (WIPA) Wavell Hinds discusses the role of the regional Players' Association in developing professional cricketers. We'll delve into some of WIPA's initiatives including those catering to life after cricket, along with its partnership with Cricket West Indies, the governing body for the sport in the Caribbean.

Things take a legal twist this week on The Drive Phase as we sit down with Jason Haynes, Attorney-at-Law and co-author of the book 'Sports Law in the Commonwealth Caribbean'. In this episode, we discuss several current legal issues, as well as some of the key areas covered in the book which are applicable to the Caribbean sporting reality.

In this episode of The Drive Phase, former Jamaican track & field athlete Dwayne Extol opens up about that journey of life after sports. Dwayne, now a media personality, and communications specialist gets brutally honest about the highs and lows of being an athlete in the NCAA system and shares how he was able to make the transition after hanging up his spikes... Spoiler Alert! It wasn't easy!

We delve into the realm of Sport Psychology and tackle some key questions... Is Sport Psychology really necessary? Is it important to athlete and/or team development? How valuable is this emerging profession in the Caribbean context? Regional sports psychologist Olivia Rose answers these questions and more in this week's episode of The Drive Phase.

Dalton sits down with Tanya Lee, the Vice President - Marketing for Caribbean sports broadcaster Sportsmax, for a candid conversation about the marketing of sports in the region. They discuss the issues and challenges faced, as well as provide some good food for thought for aspiring sports marketers.

In his first podcast, Dalton previews some of the main sport-related topics that will be covered on The Drive Phase Podcast. He looks at several sporting issues in Jamaica and the rest of the Caribbean and talks about upcoming trends.