
Insights from recent episode analysis
Audience Interest
Podcast Focus
Publishing Consistency
Platform Reach
Insights are generated by CastFox AI using publicly available data, episode content, and proprietary models.
Total monthly reach
Estimated from 6 chart positions in 6 markets.
By chart position
- 🇦🇺AU · Wilderness#1245K to 30K
- 🇬🇧GB · Wilderness#1785K to 30K
- 🇰🇷KR · Wilderness#14100K to 300K
- 🇲🇽MX · Wilderness#6110K to 30K
- 🇦🇪AE · Wilderness#830K to 100K
- Per-Episode Audience
Est. listeners per new episode within ~30 days
80K to 260K🎙 ~2x weekly·134 episodes·Last published 2w ago - Monthly Reach
Unique listeners across all episodes (30 days)
160K to 520K🇰🇷58%🇦🇪19%🇦🇺6%+3 more - Active Followers
Loyal subscribers who consistently listen
64K to 208K
Market Insights
Platform Distribution
Reach across major podcast platforms, updated hourly
Total Followers
—
Total Plays
—
Total Reviews
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* Data sourced directly from platform APIs and aggregated hourly across all major podcast directories.
On the show
Recent episodes
112. “Go For It”: The UAE’s First Pro Female MMA Fighter - Zamzam Al Hammadi & PFL MENA GM Jerome Mazet
May 5, 2026
Unknown duration
111. “We Don’t Stop. I Don’t Give Up.” – Lebanese Triathlete Lindzi Nader on Samla, suffering, and staying in the race
Apr 16, 2026
Unknown duration
110. “When It’s Easy, I Find It Boring” - Pro Golfer Carlota Ciganda Live From the Aramco Championship, Las Vegas
Apr 6, 2026
Unknown duration
109. “Go Get the Milk. Then Get the Bread.” — UAE Swimmer Maha AlShehhi’s Olympic Mindset
Mar 17, 2026
Unknown duration
108. “Golf Is a Crazy Sport”: Marianne Skarpnord on Life on Tour and the Evolution of Women’s Golf
Mar 11, 2026
Unknown duration
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| Date | Episode | Description | Length | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5/5/26 | ![]() 112. “Go For It”: The UAE’s First Pro Female MMA Fighter - Zamzam Al Hammadi & PFL MENA GM Jerome Mazet | This episode is brought to you by Dr.stretch and New Balance.At just 18 years old, Zamzam Al Hammadi is already making history. The Emirati athlete is set to become the first Emirati woman to compete for a major regional MMA promotion when she steps into the cage at PFL MENA: Pride of Arabia in Dubai on May 24.In this episode of The Mettleset Podcast, we sit down with Zamzam ahead of her professional debut to talk about pressure, purpose, representation, and the mindset required to compete at one of the highest levels of combat sport. A Youth MMA World Champion and Brazilian Jiu-Jitsu standout, Zamzam opens up about growing up in a family of fighters, the influence of her mother and coach, and why she hopes this moment inspires the next generation of girls in the UAE to step into sport.We’re also joined by Jerome Mazet, GM of Professional Fighters League, who discusses the rise of MMA across the GCC, the UAE’s growing pipeline of talent, and the increasing presence of women both inside the cage and in the crowd. From Saudi Arabia’s Hattan Alsaif to Zamzam’s debut in Dubai, this episode explores how women’s MMA is becoming one of the region’s most exciting emerging sports stories.🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuests: Zamzam Al Hammadi & Jerome MazetEditor: Diya Vergis Produced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 4/16/26 | ![]() 111. “We Don’t Stop. I Don’t Give Up.” – Lebanese Triathlete Lindzi Nader on Samla, suffering, and staying in the race | Today’s episode of The Mettleset Podcast is brought to you by New Balance 👟Lindzi Nader has built her career in triathlon the hard way, without infrastructure, without consistent funding, and often against the realities of living and training in Lebanon.But what she does have is consistency. And resilience.We sat down with one of Lebanon’s leading triathletes to talk about what it really takes to compete at an elite level - not just physically, but mentally, emotionally, and logistically.From visa rejections that blocked world championship starts to racing 20 times in 13 months, Lindzi shares what it means to keep going when the system isn’t built for you.Her story spans more than a decade - from starting in swimming to discovering triathlon in 2014, to now competing internationally and closing the gap to the top tier.We also go inside Samla, one of the toughest endurance races in the region, where finishing alone is an achievement. Lindzi placed in the top 10, navigating sand, heat, technical terrain, and a race that demands far more than physical preparation.Alongside competing, she’s building something bigger, coaching and developing the next generation of Lebanese triathletes through her academy.This is about more than results. It’s about performance, persistence, and pushing forward, even when everything around you makes it harder.🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Lindzi NaderEditor: Diya VergisProduced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 4/6/26 | ![]() 110. “When It’s Easy, I Find It Boring” - Pro Golfer Carlota Ciganda Live From the Aramco Championship, Las Vegas | This episode of The Mettleset Podcast is brought to you by New BalanceRecorded at the Aramco Championship, part of the PIF Global Series at Shadow Creek in Las Vegas, this episode features one of the most consistent and respected players in the game, Carlota Ciganda.With 11 professional wins across the LPGA and LET, two Solheim Cup wins and seven appearances, and over 15 years on tour, Carlota shares a candid look at what it really takes to compete at the highest level in golf today.From navigating one of the toughest courses in the world to the mental discipline required to stay present shot after shot, this is a conversation that goes deep into the realities of elite performance. Carlota reflects on starting the game at just five years old, finding her path through the U.S. college system, and building a career defined by consistency, resilience, and a love of the challenge.She also opens up about life on tour, the loneliness, the routines, and the importance of having the right team and environment around you, as well as how the women’s game has evolved into a more athletic, data-driven, and competitive landscape.We also touch on the growing investment in women’s golf, including the impact of PIF and Golf Saudi, and what that means not just for the sport, but for the next generation of players coming through.Carlota shares her approach to mindset, from working with a mental coach to staying focused in an increasingly noisy, social media-driven world, and why the difference at the top ultimately comes down to the mind.She reflects on career highlights, including her Solheim Cup win in Spain, and looks ahead to what’s next - with one clear goal still in sight: winning a major.And at the heart of it all is a simple truth that defines her approach to the game, if it’s easy, it’s not worth chasing.🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Carlota CigandaEditor: Diya VergisProduced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 3/17/26 | ![]() 109. “Go Get the Milk. Then Get the Bread.” — UAE Swimmer Maha AlShehhi’s Olympic Mindset | Today’s episode of The Mettleset Podcast is brought to you by New Balance What do you do when you get a call telling you you're going to the Olympics… with six weeks to go?For 18-year-old Emirati swimmer Maha Alshehhi, you put your head down, block out the noise, and mentally break a 200m freestyle into a ‘grocery run’.Host Dawn Barnable sat down with Maha to trace her journey from beach fun to the pool lanes of Paris 2024 - four years ahead of schedule. Maha opens up about growing up as one of three sisters all representing the UAE National Team (yes, including a twin), and the habits that got her through one of the most electric sporting arenas on the planet.We also get into the bigger picture: what it means to be a pioneer for Emirati women in open-water swimming, the surge of female swimmers now emerging from the GCC, and why LA 2028 - with all three Alshehhi sisters on the start line is very much the goal.Follow Maha on Instagram: @mahaalshehhii🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Maha AlshehhiEditor: Diya Vergis Produced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 3/11/26 | ![]() 108. “Golf Is a Crazy Sport”: Marianne Skarpnord on Life on Tour and the Evolution of Women’s Golf | Today’s episode of The Mettleset Podcast is brought to you by New Balance 👟What does life really look like after more than two decades competing at the highest level of professional golf?Recorded live in Riyadh at the PIF Saudi Ladies International, host Dawn Barnable sits down with Ladies European Tour veteran Marianne Skarpnord to talk about life on tour, the evolution of women’s golf, and what keeps athletes competing year after year.Marianne reflects on turning professional in 2005, spending as many as 300 days a year on the road, and the mental pressure that comes with competing in one of the world’s most demanding individual sports. She also looks back at one of the biggest moments of her career -defeating Dame Laura Davies in a playoff - and shares how the game has transformed since she first stepped onto tour.The conversation also explores the rapid rise of women’s golf globally, the impact of events like the PIF Saudi Ladies International, and Marianne’s work as a Golf Saudi ambassador helping inspire the next generation of players in the region.Along the way, we also get into Norway’s sporting culture, the challenges of life on tour, and why - after more than 20 years in the sport - Marianne’s biggest goal this season is simple: go out, relax, and enjoy playing golf again.Follow Marianne on Instagram: @mskarpnord🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Marianne SkarpnordEditor: Diya VergisProduced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 3/3/26 | ![]() 107. Muni "Lily" He at the PIF Saudi Ladies International - On Golf, the Grind & Why She Loves F1 Academy | Today’s episode of The Mettleset Podcast is brought to you by New Balance 👟How does one of the most followed golfers on the planet handle the grind golf is known for when her life looks like a permanent highlight reel?To kick off 2026, The Mettleset was live from Riyadh at the PIF Saudi Ladies International. Host Dawn Barnable sits down with LPGA star Muni “Lily” He to talk about the reality of life on tour.Lily gets real about the mental grit needed to stay at the top, the massive shift in women’s golf prize purses, and how she sets boundaries with 1.3 million followers watching her every move. We also get into her F1 crossover: why she and her fiancé - F1’s Alex Albon - share a sports psychologist, the story behind that Hello Kitty F1 Academy look, and what it’s like when one of the world's best drivers decides to become a "golf WAG" for the weekend.Follow Lily on Instagram: @lilymhe🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Muni “Lily” HeEditor: Diya VergisProduced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 12/17/25 | ![]() 106. “Do It Scared” - 🪂 Olga Naumova, Guinness World Record breaking skydiver, ultra runner & fitness coach | Today’s episode of The Mettleset Podcast is brought to you by New Balance 👟Ever wondered what it feels like to sky surf over Mount Everest or leap from 21,000 feet with nothing but a parachute and your courage? On this episode of The Mettleset Podcast, Olga Naumova - Guinness World Record skydiver, ultra runner, and fitness coach - shares the highs, the fear, and the mental grit that keep her pushing limits.We dive into what it takes to face fear head-on, chase extreme challenges, and stay mentally and physically unstoppable. From skydiving to ultra-running, Olga reveals how she turns scary moments into life-changing triumphs - lessons every athlete, adventurer, and dreamer can use. Follow Olga on Instagram: @skyumka🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Olga NaumovaEditor: Diya Vergis Produced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 12/2/25 | ![]() 105. Maryam Al Farsi - A Rising UAE Star On Stepping Onto Sport’s Biggest Stage | Today’s episode of The Mettleset Podcast is brought to you by New Balance 👟Happy Eid Al Etihad! 🇦🇪Today’s episode of The Mettleset Podcast takes us trackside with Maryam Al Farsi, one of the UAE’s youngest Olympians. From picking up sprinting just five years ago to running the 100m at Paris 2024, Maryam’s journey is full of grit, laughs, and a few moments that will make you feel like you’re right there on the starting blocks. She opens up about the ups and downs of training, balancing school and elite sport, breaking personal records, and what it felt like stepping into the Olympic Village surrounded by her heroes.Whether you’re a sports fan or just love an inspiring story, this episode is packed with honesty, determination, and a glimpse of what it really takes to chase your dreams on the world stage.Enjoy!Follow Mariam on Instagram: @maryamalfarsi1🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedIn🌐Website: TheMettleset.com Credits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Maryam Al FarsiEditor: Diya Vergis Produced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 11/25/25 | ![]() 104. 🇵🇭🇦🇪 Bowling, Belonging, and UAE Pride with Sarah Ociones 🎳 | Today’s episode of The Mettleset Podcast is brought to you by New Balance 👟Today, we roll into a story about community, connection, and a love of the game. 🎳In collaboration with Zayed Sports City, we spotlight the athletes and grassroots groups shaping Abu Dhabi’s women’s and community sports scene. And there’s no better example than the Abu Dhabi Filipino Bowling Club, more than a league for nearly four decades, it’s a second family for generations of Filipinos in the UAE.Recorded at the Khalifa International Bowling Center at Zayed Sports City, we chat with Sarah Ociones, a long-time resident, former UAE National Team bowler, and central figure in the club. She shares how bowling went from a fun family activity to international competition, how the club has grown, and the ways it brings people together - through tournaments, charity, and sheer love of the game.Whether you’re a bowler or just curious about how sport creates community, this episode is full of laughter, inspiration, and stories that make Abu Dhabi feel like home.Full feature linked here. Enjoy!Follow Abu Dhabi Filipino Bowling Club on Instagram: @adfbc.uae🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedIn🌐Website: TheMettleset.com Credits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Sarah OcionesEditor: Diya Vergis Produced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 11/18/25 | ![]() 103. Women in Sport Myth-Busting with Dr. Mariana Kessler | Today’s episode of The Mettleset Podcast is brought to you by New Balance 👟One of the biggest myths in sport?That women experience stress more intensely than men, and cope less effectively.In this episode recorded live at the Emirates Sports Medicine Conference, sports psychologist and researcher Dr. Mariana Kessler breaks down why that long-held belief simply isn’t true. Drawing from years of research into stress, coping, wellbeing, and gender differences in athletes, Dr. Mariana explains what the science actually shows, and why women’s experiences in sport often feel more stressful for reasons that have nothing to do with biology or ability.She dives into the real issue: the systemic barriers women face every day in sport. From microaggressions to under-representation to male-dominated research frameworks, Dr. Mariana highlights how the environment shapes stress far more than individual traits.We also unpack the four areas in sport where the gender gap remains most visible, research, representation, media visibility, and funding, and what needs to change to close those gaps.Follow Dr. Mariana on LinkedIn: Dr. Mariana Kaiseler🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Dr.Mariana KaiselerEditor: Diya Vergis Produced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
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| 11/11/25 | ![]() 102. Avoiding the RED-S Card - Dr. Margo Mountjoy on Energy, Health & Equity in Sport | Today’s episode of The Mettleset Podcast is brought to you by New Balance 👟This week, we’re joined by Dr. Margo Mountjoy, sports physician, clinical professor at McMaster University, and one of the world’s leading experts on RED‑S - Relative Energy Deficiency in Sport.Recorded live at the Emirates Sports Medicine Conference, Dr. Mountjoy breaks down what RED‑S really means, how it affects both women and men, and why it often hides in plain sight behind fatigue, injury, or performance dips.She explains how low energy availability impacts the body, from bone and reproductive health to mental focus, and why recovery starts with something deceptively simple: eating enough to meet your training load.We also dive into the cultural and psychological layers around food and body image in sport, the importance of educating young and endurance athletes early, and how awareness and individualized care can prevent long-term health consequences.Beyond physiology, Dr. Mountjoy reflects on gender equity in sport, from medical research to leadership, and her hope for a more inclusive, athlete-centered future.A must-listen for athletes, coaches, parents, and anyone who believes high performance and health should go hand in hand. 🎧Follow Dr. Margo on Instagram: @drmargomountjoy🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Dr.Margo Mountjoy Editor: Diya Vergis Produced by: The Mettleset | — | ||||||
| 11/3/25 | ![]() 101. “Work Hard and Luck Will Chase You” - Nourelhoda Arafa, Egyptian national rower and The Mettleset’s very own on the road to LA28 | Today’s episode of The Mettleset Podcast is brought to you by New Balance 👟This week, we’re turning the mic inward to one of our own, Nourelhoda Arafa, Egyptian national rower and record holder, and Olympic hopeful.At 13, she picked up rowing for the first time. By 15, she was chasing Olympic dreams. Then came a sudden stop, no boats, no water, no access. For seven years, Nourelhoda couldn’t row outdoors. Most people would’ve given up. She didn’t.Alongside her longtime coach Motaz, she kept training indoors, building strength, discipline, and belief. That commitment led to Egypt’s first-ever World Indoor Rowing gold medal in 2020, followed by multiple medals on the world stage.Now, she’s back on the water, training for LA 2028, and sharing what she’s learned along the way, from managing setbacks,rebuilding after illness, learning to listen to her body, and what it means to live up to her name, Nourelhoda, “a guiding light.”Her story is about what happens when you refuse to give up, and how, sometimes, luck really does chase the ones who keep going. 🎧Follow Nourelhoda on Instagram: @nourelhoda.arafa🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Nourelhoda AraEditor: Diya Vergis Produced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 10/21/25 | ![]() 100. "Treat it like a business, not a charity” - Alexis Ohanian on Women’s Sports, Live from the Sport Industry Forum | Today’s episode of The Mettleset Podcast is brought to you by New Balance 👟We’re taking you straight to Abu Dhabi for a conversation that had everyone talking.Recorded live at the Sport Industry Forum 2025 (October 1–2, Yas Marina Circuit), this special episode features Alexis Ohanian - entrepreneur, investor, and, as we like to call him, women’s sport’s biggest hype man - in conversation with Chris McHardy, Head of Sport at Dubai Eye 103.8.The Reddit and 776 co-founder, Angel City FC backer, Chelsea FC Women investor, and founder of Athlos, Ohanian shares why he believes sport is the ultimate “anti-AI bet” - a human story that can’t be automated, commodified, or replicated.He explains why women’s sport is not a charity play but a massively undervalued asset class, with billion-dollar potential hiding in plain sight. From turning Angel City FC into a $280 million success story to launching a new global track-and-field league built like a tech startup, Ohanian reveals how he’s using data, community, and storytelling to prove the doubters wrong — and why connection, not comparison, is driving the next wave of growth.As a girl dad and relentless builder, he’s betting on what makes us most human, sport itself.If you weren’t a believer before, you might just be after this one. 🎧🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedIn🎙️ CreditsHost: Dawn BarnableSpeakers: Alexis Ohanian & Chris McHardyRecorded live at: Sport Industry Forum 2025, Abu DhabiProduced by: The Mettleset's Diya Vergis 🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 9/17/25 | ![]() 99.2 The GCC at UTMB: Karis M Brown Shares Her Story - Part 2 | Today’s episode of The Mettleset Podcast is brought to you by New Balance 👟In this episode, we head back to Chamonix for Part 2 of our UTMB special with Karis Miriam Brown, former lawyer, podium-finishing ultra trail runner, and certified coach.This summer, Karis lined up at the CCC 100K, one of UTMB’s toughest races. Her journey is raw and real: battling a meniscus tear, reshaping expectations mid-race, and leaning into the “why” that fuels her training and racing.Karis also shares:Lessons from training with elites on Réunion IslandHow to reset when your race plan falls apartWhy community, challenge, and her daughters drive her forward🎧 Inspiring, honest, and packed with takeaways, this is a must-listen for anyone who’s ever dreamed of testing themselves on the trails.🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond 📸 Instagram: @themettleset 💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits: Host: Dawn Barnable Guests: Karis Miriam Brown Editor: Diya Vergis A Production of The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and community sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. We put women in sport first while highlighting niche communities like action and endurance sports.We hope you enjoy the episode! - Dawn | — | ||||||
| 9/16/25 | ![]() 99.1 The GCC at UTMB: Ivana Kolaric, Fatema Husain & Sharifah AlQattan Share Their Stories - Part 1 | Today’s episode of The Mettleset Podcast is brought to you by New Balance 👟In this episode of The Mettleset Podcast, we dive into UTMB – Ultra Trail du Mont-Blanc, one of the world’s most iconic trail running festivals.We sat down with three remarkable women from the region who took on the UTMB World Series Finals, sharing their journeys of pushing limits, chasing personal bests, and soaking in the magic of Chamonix.Featured Athletes:Ivana Kolaric – Returned post-pregnancy to finish top 30 and 2nd in her age group at the 61K OCC.Fatema Husain – Bahrain’s ultra trailblazer and first GCC woman to complete the 100-mile UTMB, sharing her journey through injury and breathtaking mountain views.Sharifah AlQattan – Ultra trail runner, coach, and Boom Ultra Challenge race director, talking mindset, preparation, and the pride of crossing the finish line.✨ Don’t miss part two featuring Karis M. Brown. 🎧 Listen to Fatema’s previous episode here. 🎧 Listen to Ivana’s previous episode here.🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond 📸 Instagram: @themettleset 💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuests: Ivana Kolaric, Fatema Husain, Sharifah AlQattanEditor: Diya VergisA Production of The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and community sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. We put women in sport first while highlighting niche communities like action and endurance sports.We hope you enjoy the episode! - Dawn | — | ||||||
| 9/9/25 | ![]() 98. ⚽ Maria Khan 🇵🇰 : From Backup Keeper to Pro Footballer at 32 | Join us as we chat with Maria Khan, captain of the Pakistan women’s football team, about her incredible journey from an early love of football (or soccer) as a kid in the U.S. to signing her first professional contract at 32 in Saudi Arabia. Maria opens up about the influence of her sporting family legacy, the lessons learned as a Division 1 backup goalkeeper, and the moment she rediscovered her love for football in Pakistan. She shares what it’s like to captain the Pakistani national team, navigate setbacks, and build resilience, while highlighting the power of supportive environments, corporate backing, and strong team leadership.We also dive into the challenges female athletes face around fertility, family planning, and evolving maternity policies, alongside the exciting growth of women’s football and the importance of visibility, advocacy, and creating opportunities for the next generation.Follow Maria on Instagram: @mariajamilakhan🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter:Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond 📸 Instagram: @themettleset 💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Maria KhanEditor: Diya VergisProduced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 8/28/25 | ![]() 97. 🇦🇪 Emirati Women’s Day - Celebrating Incredible Emirati Women in Sport | Today’s episode of The Mettleset Podcast is brought to you by New Balance 👟At The Mettleset, we exist to celebrate and empower women in sport, and what better occasion than Emirati Women’s Day to spotlight six incredible athletes who embody courage, resilience, and pride.In this special episode, you’ll hear their journeys: the struggles, the triumphs, and the moments that make them proud to be Emirati women in sport. We asked them to share their biggest accomplishments, and one powerful message for Emirati Women’s Day.Featured Athletes:Mariam Bahlooq – Ultra-runner and founder of The Running Society in Abu Dhabi, building a supportive community of women discovering running and the city together.Areej Al Hammadi – UAE Women’s National Team footballer and two-time Guinness World Record holder.Fatima Abdulrahman Al Awadhi – 18-year-old adventurer from Abu Dhabi on a mission to climb the Seven Summits after summiting two. Danah Al Ali – Trailblazing adventurer who made history as the first Emirati to summit Everest and Lhotse within just 24 hours.Hana Al Nabulsi – Triathlete, the youngest Emirati woman to complete a 70.3 Ironman, and the first to qualify for the Asian Games in triathlon. Amenah Al Muhairi – At just 17, the UAE’s first snowboarder to compete internationally and the first Emirati woman to represent the nation at the Youth Winter Olympic Games.These stories remind us that sport is more than competition, it’s about breaking barriers, uplifting others, and leaving a legacy for the next generation.🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset 💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuests: Mariam Bahlooq, Areej Al Hammadi, Fatima Abdulrahman Al Awadhi, Danah Al Ali, Hana Al Nabulsi, Amenah Al MuhairiProducer, Writer & Editor: Diya Vergis A Production of The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 8/25/25 | ![]() 96. 🏊♀️🚴♀️🏃♀️How to Train for a Triathlon as an Experienced Athlete, with Coach Melina Timson-Katchis - Part 2 | Today’s episode is brought to you with the support of New Balance 👟We’re closing out our Summer Series with Melina Timson-Katchis, triathlete and coach, sharing expert advice for experienced athletes stepping into triathlon.In this episode, Melina dives into the key lessons for transferring your existing athletic skills to triathlon: why the swim is often underestimated, why triathlon should be treated as one continuous sport, and how to balance strengths and weaknesses through focused training blocks. She also explains why consistency beats intensity, how to listen to your body to avoid overtraining, and the small but crucial race-day choices that make a big difference.From practicing nutrition ahead of time to prioritizing comfort over expensive gear, Melina covers all the essentials to help you perform at your best.If you missed Part One, go back and start there, then join us as we wrap up the Summer Series with these insights for experienced athletes ready to take their triathlon journey to the next level.Follow Melina on Instagram: @tk_melina 🎧 Listen to Part 1 of this conversation HERE.🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Melina Timson - Katchus Editor: Diya Vergis Produced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 8/22/25 | ![]() 95. 🏊♀️🚴♀️🏃♀️How to Train for Your First Triathlon, with Coach Melina Timson-Katchis - Part 1 | Today’s episode is brought to you with the support of New Balance 👟Ever thought about doing a triathlon but didn’t know where to start? In part one of this two-part series, Melina Timson-Katchis, long distance swimmer, triathlete and coach, shares her journey from signing up for a full Ironman on a whim to racing all over the world. Now, she’s helping others step into the sport she loves.In this episode, Melina breaks down:Triathlon distances: From Super Sprint to Ironman, plus a look at ultra & adventure races.Getting started: How to prioritize training, plan around your schedule, tackle swimming, and decide whether to build up gradually or dive into a big race.The power of coaching: Why guidance can make all the difference.Finding your “why”: Staying motivated and making time for rest to avoid burnout.Whether you’re new to fitness, curious about triathlon, or planning your first race, this episode is packed with practical advice, insights, and inspiration to help you cross the finish line.Follow Melina on Instagram: @tk_melina Listen to Melina’s first appearance on the podcast HERE🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Melina Timson-Katchis Editor: Diya Vergis Produced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 8/18/25 | ![]() 94. 👟 How to Run Part 2: From 5K to Ultra with New Balance Run Club Coach Dr. Sara Talia (Summer Series) | Today’s episode is brought to you with the support of New Balance. 👟Welcome back to The Mettleset Podcast! In Part 2 of our running episode for the Summer Series, we're pushing past the 5K and exploring the incredible world of long-distance and ultra running with Dr. Sara Talia, a family medicine doctor and New Balance Run Club Doha Coach. Dr Sara kicks off by sharing why ultra running is as much a mental game as a physical one, highlighting that your biggest competitor is often yourself. She reveals the two biggest mistakes people make when stepping up their distances – not giving yourself enough time to prepare and building up mileage too quickly, and how to avoid them for a safer, more enjoyable journey.We dive into the practicalities of going from a 5K to a half-marathon and then a full marathon, discussing realistic timelines and why variety in your training is essential. Sara also breaks down why running injuries happen, focusing on common culprits like overuse and tight muscles, and emphasizes the importance of consistent prehab and smart recovery (yes, sleep is key!).Plus, if you're eyeing an ultra, Sara explains the key differences in training, especially when it comes to nutrition, hydration, and tackling varied terrain. She wraps up with invaluable advice on overcoming pre-race jitters and trusting your training.Ready to conquer your next ultra? Listen in now!Follow Dr. Sara on Instagram: @drtalia_sportsmedicine Follow the New Balance Run Club Doha: @nbrc_doha🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Dr. Sara Talia Editor: Diya Vergis Produced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 8/12/25 | ![]() 93. 👟 How to Run: From Zero to 5K with New Balance Run Club Coach Dr. Sara Talia (Summer Series) | Today’s episode is brought to you with the support of New Balance. 👟Welcome back to The Mettleset Podcast!For our Summer Series, we're helping you jump into a new sport, and this week, we're leaping into the world of running. And who better to guide us from zero to 5K than the incredible Dr. Sara Talia. She's not just a family medicine doctor; she's also a New Balance Run Club Coach in Doha and a former competitive middle-distance runner who even tackled the steeplechase. This is Part 1 of our essential running guide.Sara takes us behind the scenes of running’s global boom – did you know run club participation shot up by a whopping 59% worldwide last year? She shares her own journey, revealing how she balanced competitive athletics with a demanding medical career and why she's now so passionate about coaching others.If you've ever felt intimidated by running, this episode is for you. Sara cuts through the noise, reminding us that running truly is for everyone. You’ll learn how to frame your mindset, set powerful intentions (not just goals!), and why consistency is your secret weapon.We dig into the practical stuff too: how to take those crucial first steps, gradually build your mileage, and prepare for your first 3K or 5K. Plus, Dr Sara breaks down the must-do strength training exercises that will keep you injury-free and moving stronger, no matter your pace.Ready to lace up and transform your running journey? Tune in now!Follow Dr. Sara on Instagram: @drtalia_sportsmedicine Follow the New Balance Run Club Doha: @nbrc_doha🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Dr. Sara Talia Editor: Diya Vergis Produced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 8/4/25 | ![]() 92. 🐠 What the Ocean Teaches Us: Freediving, Wildlife, and Conservation with Saudi Record-Breaking Freediver Nada Alrasheed - Part Two (Summer Series) | Today’s episode is brought to you with the support of New Balance 👟We’re back with Saudi record-holding freediver Nada Alrasheed for Part 2 of our Summer Series deep dive exploring not just how to freedive, but why the ocean is worth protecting.Nada takes us through some of her most unforgettable underwater moments from growing up by the vibrant reefs of the Red Sea to diving in the icy waters of Norway alongside humpback whales. She reflects on what it means to share space with marine life and how these encounters have shaped her passion for conservation.We talk about the reality of sharks (not the Jaws version), why the ocean needs our protection now more than ever, and how simply witnessing life beneath the surface can shift your perspective. Nada also shares what’s next on her diving bucket list, the strength of the global freediving community, and the athletes and stories that continue to inspire her.If you missed Part 1, go back and start there - then come along as we dive even deeper.Follow Nada on Instagram: @nada_underwater🎧 Listen to Part 1 of this conversation here 🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Nada AlrasheedEditor: Diya Vergis Produced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 8/1/25 | ![]() 91. 🧜🏼♀️ How to Freedive with Saudi record-breaking freediver Nada Alrasheed (Summer Series) | Today’s episode is brought to you with the support of New Balance 👟In this episode of The Mettleset Podcast, we’re diving into the world of freediving with Saudi record-holder and instructor, Nada Alrasheed as part of our Summer Series focused on helping more women try new sports.Nada holds multiple national records and an Arab women’s record for reaching 65 meters in the constant weight bifin category at the CMAS World Championship. Her journey didn’t begin with records or rankings, it started with a simple love for the ocean.In this Part 1 of our two-part conversation, Nada shares how she went from exploring marine life to pushing physical and mental limits underwater. She breaks down the basics of freediving, how to get started, and why it’s not just for elite athletes. We also talk about fears, breathwork, and what happens to your body during a deep dive.Whether you’re curious about the sport or drawn to the ocean, this conversation offers an inspiring look at exploring the 70% of our planet we rarely explore. Follow Nada on Instagram: @nada_underwater🎧 Listen to Nada’s first appearance on The Mettleset Podcast HERE 🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Nada AlrasheedEditor: Diya Vergis Produced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 7/25/25 | ![]() 90. 🏃♀️ How to HYROX with Jess Towl, One of the World’s Best (Summer Series) | Today’s episode is brought to you with the support of New Balance 👟In this episode of The Mettleset Podcast, we kick off our Summer Series - a special “How To” series focused on giving you the tools, info and inspo to get started in a new sport. From running your first 5k to training for a Triathlon, to going deep into the world of freediving, we’re sharing real advice, inspiring journeys, and expert tips to help you get started.To launch the series, we’re joined by Jess Towl, Head of HYROX at GymNation and one of the top 15 HYROX women in the world. Before we delve into HYROX, Jess shares her own journey into sport including her start as a Team GB triathlete, her arrival as a record-setting CrossFitter and her recent mindset shift when it comes to competition. Jess also delivers a masterclass on all things HYROX, the global fitness race redefining endurance sport. She walks us through the race-day format, how to train smart (not just hard), and why the sport is gaining momentum across the world and the Middle East. From athlete demographics to the unique accessibility of HYROX, Jess explains how functional fitness is opening doors for both first-timers and elites alike.We also get into the real talk: performance nutrition, mindset traps, and the fueling mistakes women still make too often. Drawing from her own journey from elite swimmer and triathlete representing Great Britain, to CrossFit competitor and now top-tier HYROX athlete - Jess shares the training wisdom, recovery mindset, and race-day strategies that have shaped her success.Whether you’re HYROX-curious or simply seeking motivation to move, this episode is packed with insight, tools, and inspiration to help you take the next step in your fitness journey.Follow Jess on Instagram: @jesstowl🌍 Stay Connected with - and support - The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Jess TowlEditor: Diya Vergis Produced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode!Dawn | — | ||||||
| 7/11/25 | ![]() 89. 🏈 'Innovation is the Baseline' with San Francisco 49ers' SVP Marketing, Stephanie Rogers | Today’s episode is brought to you with the support of New Balance. 👟In this episode of The Mettleset Podcast, we’re joined by Stephanie Rogers, Executive Vice President of Marketing for the San Francisco 49ers, one of the NFL’s most storied and valuable franchises.Stephanie takes us inside the 49ers’ global brand strategy, sharing how a legacy team balances tradition with forward-thinking innovation, from data-driven marketing to fan engagement that spans millions of people worldwide.We dive into Stephanie’s impressive career across the PGA Tour, NHL, and now NFL, and how the world of sports marketing has evolved from the early days of digital content to today’s always-on, global-first strategy. She shares the mindset behind her leadership philosophy - why “innovation is the baseline” - and how it continues to shape how teams connect with fans in deeper, more meaningful ways.We also talk about the 49ers’ first-of-its-kind activation in the UAE, marking a major milestone as the first NFL team to engage in the region under the league’s Global Markets Program. Stephanie reflects on the energy, appetite, and opportunities she witnessed during the team’s time in Dubai, and what’s next for the 49ers in the Middle East.Packed with storytelling, strategy, and practical advice for anyone looking to work in sport, this episode offers a front-row seat to the business behind one of the world’s most iconic sports brands.🏈 More on the 49ers: https://www.49ers.com/ 49ers Arabic on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/49ersar/ 🌍 Stay Connected with – and support – The Mettleset📥 Newsletter: Sign up here for athlete stories, behind-the-scenes insights, and women’s sports news from MENA and beyond📸 Instagram: @themettleset💼 LinkedIn: The Mettleset on LinkedInCredits:Host: Dawn BarnableGuest: Stephanie Rogers Editing Assistant: Diya Vergis Produced by: The Mettleset🚲 The Mettleset is a multimedia platform and online community dedicated to sharing stories of underrepresented athletes and underreported sports from the Middle East and beyond. With a mission to diversify the sporting ecosystem, it is one of the first and only sports platforms in the Middle East to put women in sport first, while also featuring niche sporting communities such as action and endurance sports.I hope you enjoy the episode! Dawn | — | ||||||
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6 placements across 6 markets.
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6 placements across 6 markets.
