What happens when one of the world's biggest sports becomes more accessible, more inclusive and more creator-driven?
In this special live episode of the Empower Podcast, recorded at Empower Café at Cannes Lions 2026, host Kate Chaundy is joined by Stephanie Dittmer Rogers, CMO San Francisco 49ers and Ollie Ellis, Senior Content Manager at Propeller Group, to explore the remarkable rise of flag football and what it could mean for the future of the game.

Once viewed as a grassroots alternative to traditional American football, flag football is rapidly becoming a global phenomenon, opening up American football to a new generation of players and fans. The conversation explores the growing participation of women and girls, the sport’s appeal across generations, and how its accessibility is helping break down some of the traditional barriers to taking part.

The panel also explores the powerful role of creators, social media and modern fandom in accelerating the sport’s growth. How are digital communities changing the way fans engage with football? What opportunities does this present for brands, athletes and media companies? And what can established sports learn from a movement that's being shaped as much by culture as competition?

As flag football heads towards its Olympic debut, this episode explores why its impact extends beyond the game itself, offering a powerful platform for community, connection, youth engagement and a more inclusive future for sport.

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What if advertising, porn and social media have taught us almost everything wrong about sex, identity and relationships?

In this special live episode of the Empower Podcast, recorded at Cannes Lions, host Kate Chaundy is joined by MakeLoveNotPorn founder and entrepreneur Cindy Gallop and Street Agency founder Katie Street for a conversation that challenges some of society's biggest taboos.

After leading some of the world's largest advertising agencies, Cindy Gallop has become one of the industry's most fearless voices, taking a sledgehammer to sexism, ageism and the harmful narratives that shape how we see ourselves and each other.

Together, the panel explores the uncomfortable truth about the stories we're sold every day—and how advertising, entertainment, social media and pornography have influenced our ideas of beauty, confidence, intimacy and success.

Who should be held accountable for these narratives? Can - and should - brands help rewrite the script? And what happens when we start telling more honest stories about sex, relationships and identity?

From dismantling outdated stereotypes to exposing the hidden influence of culture on our everyday lives, this is a provocative, eye-opening conversation that might just change the way you see the world.

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Empower is proud to be a partner of Mad//Fest London — and every day we’re here talking to inspiring speakers and curious attendees about what they’re seeing, learning, and loving. In today’s daily drop we’ll hear from host Kate Chaundy and guests Claire McHardy, Mike Pearson, Eva Cremers and Tom Johnson to find out their highlights of the day and their insights on this year’s theme; The Human Touch.

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