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Olympic Rower Kate Johnson Discusses Sports, Leadership, and Cancer Recovery

Kate Johnson shares her journey from Olympic athlete to tech executive while advocating for girls in sports.

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PARK CITY, Utah — Olympic silver medalist and technology executive Kate Johnson, after completing treatment for stage 3 breast cancer, relocated to Park City with her family. They left behind a stable medical practice in California, opting for the potential of remote work while bringing their two sons to a location they had previously visited on ski trips. Johnson described this decision as a gamble that has ultimately proven rewarding. Throughout her journey, she emphasizes the importance of staying true to oneself and listening to one's inner voice, which she believes leads to success. Johnson's athletic career began in Portland, Oregon, where she was inspired by Nike's "If You Let Me Play" campaign aimed at encouraging girls in sports. She became a three-time All-American rower at the University of Michigan and went on to win a silver medal with the U.S. women's eight at the 2004 Athens Olympics. This achievement helped shape her confidence as she transitioned into a career in sports marketing, where she held leadership roles at companies such as IMG, Visa, and Google. Johnson's experience in the male-dominated industry taught her the value of advocating for women's sports, particularly during her time in the United Kingdom. In a recent TED Talk, Johnson highlighted the disparities in media coverage between men's and women's sports, noting that algorithms often prioritize male sports stories. She advocates for community accountability in providing equitable sports opportunities for girls, especially at critical ages like 14 when many drop out of sports. Johnson is also concerned about the limited options for youth participation in sports and emphasizes the importance of recreational avenues to keep young people engaged in team sports. Following her cancer diagnosis, Johnson redefined her perspective on hardships, focusing on how experiences can benefit her rather than feeling betrayed. Reconnecting with friends and teammates during her recovery fostered resilience and support. Now, Johnson balances her time between the Bay Area and Park City, where she serves on boards for organizations like the Women’s Sports Foundation and the Youth Sports Alliance, striving to enhance accessibility in sports for all children.