In this episode of the She Built It® Podcast, host Melanie Barr sits down with Alena Olsen, a remarkable athlete who has not only excelled in the world of rugby but has also become a powerful advocate for environmental sustainability. Since joining the USA Women’s Rugby 7s team in 2018, Alena has competed in over 20 World Series tournaments, 2 Pan-American Games, one World Cup, and helped her team earn a historic bronze medal at the Olympic Games.

Beyond her athletic success, Alena is a recipient of the International Olympic Committee's Athletes for Good Award and the Green Sports Alliance Next Generation Leader Award for her outstanding contributions to sustainability. She shares her passion for leading "Going for Green" initiatives, working with EcoAthletes to drive climate action within the rugby community. From planting thousands of trees to launching a campus food waste sorting program and compiling signatures from hundreds of professional rugby players urging for sustainable strategies, Alena’s leadership extends far beyond the rugby field.

Join us as we explore her inspiring journey, balancing the demands of elite sport with a mission to protect our planet and lead the charge for a greener future.

Connect with us:

Alena Olsen E-activity 

Alena Olsen Instagram

She Built It® Instagram 

She Built It® CEO, Melanie Barr Instagram

Melanie Barr LinkedIn

She Built It® LinkedIn