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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