E158 - Michael Gunning: Championing Diversity in Swimming

Join us on the Propulsion Swimming Podcast as we dive deep into the life and career of Michael Gunning, a trailblazer in the world of swimming. Mike Gunning has been a tireless advocate for diversity and inclusion, constantly challenging the status quo.

In this episode, we explore Gunning's personal journey through the sport, touching on the unique challenges he faced as a minority in a field traditionally under-represented by people of color. He opens up about his experiences, from dealing with stereotypes to finding his place in his squad, and how he navigated these hurdles to become an inspiration for many.

We discuss the persistent stereotype that black people can't swim, a notion that Gunning has consistently debunked throughout his career. He shares his thoughts on how to encourage more black people to engage in swimming, by eradicating this stereotype and the importance of showcasing successful black athletes such as Simone Manuel, Alia Atkinson, and Cullen Jones.

In a larger context, we look at the importance of representation in media, specifically discussing the upcoming Disney film, The Little Mermaid, where Ariel is cast as black.

Gunning's passion for inclusivity extends to his work with Speedo United, a company making strides in advocating for diversity and pride. He delves into the concept of equality in today's society and shares his personal experiences with coming out, touching on the impact of social media in spreading awareness and inspiring people to be true to themselves. We also acknowledge his commendable work in increasing LGBTQ+ visibility worldwide, for which he has won several accolades.

As the latest recruit to the AP team and an active Diversity Champion, Gunning speaks about his role in AP International and the AP Inclusivity Series. He discusses what it means for him to be part of this team, why he chose AP, and his aspirations for his role.

Don't miss out on this insightful conversation with Michael Gunning, a figure who has consistently used his platform to advocate for diversity and inclusion in swimming, and beyond.

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