The SoccerGirl Podcast

Today on the pod, we’re joined by U.S. Women’s National Team and Seattle Reign goalkeeper Claudia Dickey Claudia is one of the top young American keepers in the game right now, and we had such a fun, honest conversation with her about life in goal and everything that comes with it. From handling pressure in big moments to competing against your own friends, she gives a real look into the mindset of a goalkeeper at the highest level. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to be a top keeper or just want to hang with one of the most fun personalities in the game this one’s for you. This episode is brought to you by IDA Sports👟 If you’ve played soccer, you know the struggle of wearing cleats that weren’t actually designed for women’s feet. That’s exactly why IDA exists. They make soccer boots specifically built for female athletes, focusing on fit, comfort, and performance. Get yours today at www.idasports.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the SoccerGirl podcast, we're joined by NWSL vet Kayla Sharples to talk her favorite celebrations, making the Best XI roster, and what it takes to become a better centerback. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the Soccer Girl Podcast, we’re joined by Eva Gaetino to talk all things USWNT, the excitement around Denver’s newest women’s soccer team, and the realities of life as a pro. Eva shares what it’s been like stepping into USWNT camp, the buzz around Denver Summit FC, and why the anticipation around the club has been building for so long. If you’re excited to see Denver finally take the field and want a behind-the-scenes look at one of the players helping lead the way, this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For so many athletes, the dream is going pro bt for Casey Martinez, the path looked a little different. In this episode of SoccerGirl Pod, we sit down with former D1 standout Casey Martinez to talk about the decision to step away from pursuing a professional soccer career and instead commit to the demanding world of pre-med. We get into: -What it’s really like balancing D1 soccer and pre-med -The mindset shift that comes with transitioning out of sport -Why choosing a different path isn’t “giving up” — it’s growth -How being an athlete translates into medicine (yes, even surgery) -Advice for young players chasing big dreams on and off the field This is a conversation about identity, pressure, and trusting yourself when your future doesn’t look like everyone else’s. Because success doesn’t only live on the pitch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Uncertainty is part of the job but no one really prepares you for it. In this episode, Kiki Pickett opens up about navigating role changes, managing expectations, and staying mentally grounded through the highs and lows of professional soccer. From shifting responsibilities to moments of doubt, Kiki shares how she reframes uncertainty and finds stability when things feel out of her control. Whether you’re an athlete, creator, or just figuring out your next move, this conversation is a reminder that growth often lives in the in-between. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Soccer Girl Pod, we’re joined by Britt Isenhour, former NWSL goalkeeper with the Orlando Pride and Angel City who’s now one of the most relatable and funniest soccer creators on social media. We talk about her transition from professional soccer to content creation, the confidence it takes to put yourself out there, navigating identity after stepping away from the game, and why the behind-the-scenes work matters more than people realize. Britt also shares how creating content helped her stay connected to soccer, build a business, and embrace a new chapter. Whether you’re an athlete thinking about what’s next, a creator in the grind, or just love the game, this episode is a must-listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the Soccer Girl Podcast, we’re hanging out with North Carolina Courage defender Maycee Bell. We talk about her journey from UNC to the NWSL, what really surprised her about going pro, and the not-so-glamorous side of recovering from a tough knee injury (including a wild recovery story). Maycee also shares why staying uncomfortable is key to growth, how she finds balance off the field, and why a future in fashion might be calling her name. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ACL injuries are one of the toughest challenges in soccer both physically and mentally. This week we’re joined by Kate Sneddon, PT, DPT, CSCS, a leading ACL rehab and performance specialist who helps athletes turn “I hope I get back” into “I’m better than before.” We break down everything you need to know about ACL injuries, including: How ACL injuries happen in soccer How to prevent ACL injuries with smarter training and movement habits What ACL recovery really looks like physically and mentally How to deal with fear, confidence, and return-to-play pressure Why some athletes come back stronger than ever Whether you’re currently rehabbing, looking to prevent an injury, or supporting a teammate, this episode is packed with practical advice, mindset shifts, and expert insight every soccer player should hear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the SoccerGirl Podcast, we talk all things college recruiting with recruiting specialist Kim DeCesare. Want to level up and play at the next level? This is the conversation for you. To work with Kim directly, reach out to her via kvbsoccer.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we have a very SPECIAL EDITION of the SoccerGirl Podcast, filmed LIVE at the 2025 NWSL Championship FanFest. We're joined on stage by USWNT legends Abby Wambach and Julie Foudy, plus more special guests for soccer talk, electric games, and even better banter. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the SoccerGirl Podcast, Gotham FC and England defender Jess Carter joins us to talk mental health advice, playing with different communication styles, what she learned from becoming a Euros champion, and what it's REALLY like to drive in New Jersey. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the SoccerGirl Podcast, USWNT and Racing Louisville forward Emma Sears joins us to talk trusting the process, her historic USWNT debut, and what it takes to persevere and make it at the highest level. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we’re joined by Deyna Castellanos, Venezuelan forward and one of the most visible figures in women’s soccer. From her breakout college career at Florida State to pro stints with clubs in Spain, England, and the NWSL, Deyna’s journey has been global and inspiring. We talk about leading Venezuela’s national team, her advice for young players, balancing life on and off the field, and her mission to elevate the women’s game across South America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ever wonder how the world’s greatest soccer players train? This week, legendary trainer David Copeland-Smith joins the SoccerGirl Podcast to talk coachability, work ethic, and what makes the best the best. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the SoccerGirl Podcast, Manchester United & USWNT goalkeeper Phallon Tullis-Joyce joined us to talk the perks of being a keeper, leveling up to play for the USWNT, and summer trip to the amazon where she hung out with venomous caterpillars. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Gotham FC defender Lily Reale joins the show to talk dealing with adversity at the pro level, what it was like to balance school with high level college sports, and her Aquaphor obsession. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From trialist to NWSL standout, Angel City FC’s Riley Tiernan shares her journey, her biggest ‘Soccer Girl Prob’ and why she’d rather rack up assists than goals. We talk pre-season survival, the winning culture at Angel City, and how she refused to give anyone a reason to doubt her. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we sit down with NWSL defender Nealy Martin for an honest and inspiring convo about the rollercoaster that is professional soccer. From applying to 9–5 jobs while chasing her dream of playing pro, to stepping into goal (twice) during real matches, Nealy’s journey is anything but ordinary. We talk about: The moment she almost gave up on soccer — and why she didn’t How it actually feels to go undrafted and still make it What it’s like to literally pay to attend a pro tryout Playing goalkeeper professionally (yes, really) The mental chaos of getting traded Her advice to anyone unsure if they should keep going Whether you’re a young player figuring out your next step, or just love a good underdog story, this one’s for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the SoccerGrlProbs Podcast, we sit down with Dutch international and current Liga MX Femenil defender Merel van Dongen for a raw and inspiring conversation about what it means to thrive in chaos. From shattering her nose mid-season to becoming a new mom, bouncing between countries, and qualifying for UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 with the Netherlands—Merel has lived five years in one. We talk about her time setting assist records at Alabama, the emotional attachment to winning and losing, and the mindset shift that helped her stop obsessing over outcomes and start focusing on what she can control. “I love not knowing what’s going to happen on Monday,” Merel tells us. “For some people that’s stressful—for me, that’s living.” Whether you’re an athlete, a new parent, or just someone trying to stay grounded in a whirlwind of change, this episode will hit home. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this week’s pod, we sat down with Icelandic midfielder Andrea Rán Snæfeld Hauksdóttir — currently playing for Tampa Bay Sun and the Icelandic national team — for a raw, insightful conversation about resilience, reinvention, and rewriting your own playbook. From qualifying for the Euros but not making the final squad, to choosing college soccer at USF over going pro at a time, to embracing every setback as fuel for the next chapter. We also talk about: ⚽ Her journey across Iceland, France, NWSL, Mexico & now Tampa Bay 🧠 Mental toughness and self-accountability 📚 Why college soccer was the right path for her 🚗 And how she’s learned to stay in the driver’s seat of her own career This one’s for anyone who’s felt overlooked, underestimated, or in need of a reminder that setbacks aren’t stop signs. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we chat with Kansas City Current forward Alex Pfeiffer about her incredible journey as one of the youngest players ever signed to the NWSL. Alex opens up about how a major injury became a turning point in her life—shaping her mindset, building her resilience, and helping her form deep friendships. We dive into the challenges she’s faced, how she stays positive through rehab, and what she’s learned about growth both on and off the field. Her story is a powerful reminder that setbacks can fuel comebacks! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week we chat with Melissa Ortiz, Olympian & former pro footballer, broadcaster, analyst and entrepreneur. In this powerful conversation, Melissa opens up about overcoming imposter syndrome and learning to fully embrace her authentic self — as a first-gen American, a Spanish speaker, and a proud representative of her culture. We talk about: • 🌟 Owning your identity and speaking your truth • 💬 Embracing culture & language as strength, not limitation • 🧠 Mental resilience and the road to self-confidence • 🏅 Advice for young athletes carving their path • 🌎 Representation matters — and why visibility can change lives An inspiring listen for anyone navigating identity, ambition, and the power of showing up as you are. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, we’re joined by Morgan Brian Gautrat — 2X World Cup Champion, longtime USWNT staple, and current Orlando Pride midfielder. We dive into: ⚽️ The mental side of battling injuries and concussions 💪 What perseverance and true resilience really look like in a pro career 🌱 Finding gratitude in the tough moments 🔄 Embracing change (and how it shaped her journey) 🧠 Why versatility is the secret weapon to longevity in sports Morgan keeps it real about the highs, lows, and everything in between. A must-listen for any athlete navigating change or looking for staying power in their sport. We're giving away $1000 of Umbro cleats and gear- enter here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIKCx0zyhtR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we sit down with USWNT legend and host of JWS'Sports Are Fun, Kelley O’Hara! She gets real about: ⚽ How failures led to her biggest wins 💪 The hidden struggles of pro athletes 🌎 The evolution of women’s soccer 🔥 Embracing failure as a path to growth 👊 The power of unity in driving change for the women’s game Don’t miss this inspiring conversation on the past, present, and future of women’s sports! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the SoccerGrlProbs Podcast, we sit down with NWSL, Utah Royal's and USWNT's Ally Sentnor to talk about her journey from draft day to her experience in the league so far. We dive into what it takes to bring energy and elevate team spirit, how to handle pressure in a competitive environment, and the power of positivity in both training and games. Ally shares her insights on being a great teammate, inspiring others to chase their dreams, and how mindset plays a huge role in success. Tune in for an inspiring and high-energy conversation with one of the league’s rising stars! ⚽🔥 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we sit down with former USWNT star, Bay FC Founder and sports broadcaster Aly Wagner for a fun and insightful conversation about soccer, leadership, and the power of individuality. Aly shares what it’s like being a soccer mom (including the hilarious story of getting kicked out of her son’s game!), the importance of prioritizing fun in youth sports, and how strong role models shape the future of the game. We also dive into the evolving investment in women’s sports, embracing individuality for team success, and modern leadership in soccer. Plus, Aly gives advice to players with big personalities on how to channel their energy while thriving within a team. It’s an episode filled with real talk, laughs, and wisdom from one of the most influential voices in the game. Don’t miss it! 🎙⚽️ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we chat with special guest Linda Martindale, a student-athlete performance coachabout the dynamic relationship between parents, coaches, and athletes ad exploring how they can work together to foster ahealthy, resilient mindset in sports. We discuss: ✅ How to build resilient athletes who thrive under pressure ✅ Why trust between parents and coaches is the key to success ✅ How toempower young athletes to be their own best coach ✅ The ultimate role of parents in sports &keys to effective coaching Whether you’re on the sidelines or leading the team, this episode is packed with insights to help you support young athletes in a positive, impactful way. 💪🔥 Website: https://martindalecoaching.com Linda's Game Changers Podcast: https://martindalecoaching.com/game-changers-podcast/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the podcast, we sit down with USWNT and Washington Spirit star Croix Bethune—the NWSL’s Rookie of the Year and Midfielder of the Year! 🏆🔥 Croix shares insights from her incredible first year in the league, her experience playing for the national team at the Olympics, and how she’s used mindset, manifestation, and resilience to turn challenges—like injuries—into opportunities. Plus, don’t miss your chance to win a pair of boots from the Puma Lights Up Women’s Pack! ⚡ Enter now by clicking our Instagram Reel: Enter Here! Tune in and enjoy! 🎧⚽ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode, we’re joined by Dr. Lauren Tashman, a Certified Mental Performance Consultant and performance coach who specializes in helping athletes optimize their mindset, leadership, and team culture. Dr. Tashman shares her expert insights on how to strengthen mental resilience, build unshakeable confidence in high-pressure moments, and overcome performance anxiety. With practical strategies for supporting mental health and thriving as both a leader and a teammate, this conversation is packed with invaluable advice. Whether you're a youth athlete, a collegiate player aiming for the pros, or a soccer parent looking to support your child’s journey, this episode is a must-listen for anyone wanting to elevate their game and succeed on and off the field. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re back with an exciting episode featuring a true icon—US Soccer legend, Abby Wambach! In this candid conversation, Abby opens up about life after soccer, sharing the challenges and rewards of navigating the identity shift that comes once you hang up your boots. She dives deep into the importance of reinvention and staying true to yourself in new chapters. We also explore the world of youth sports, where Abby offers invaluable advice to parents of young athletes, revealing what they should—and shouldn’t—do to foster a healthy, supportive relationship with their children in sports. Don’t miss this inspiring and insightful episode! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of SGP, we're joined by Gotham FC's Michelle Betos, who shares her insights on the importance of supporting the mental health of athletes. Michelle discusses why she believes there’s still significant room for growth in this area and makes the case for teams to invest in in-house mental health coaches. We also dive into the evolution of the NWSL, reflecting on the league's journey from its inaugural season to where it stands today. As a player who's been there from the beginning, Michelle offers a unique perspective on the league's growth and the increasing power and influence of its athletes. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SGP is joined by Orlando Pride's Kenna Caldwell. Kenna tells us about not letting being cut from her ECNL team and having a Coach tell her she wouldn't be a college soccer player keep her from believing in herself. We also chat about what makes the Orlando Pride special this season and what winning the shield was like! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SGP is joined by Tottenham Hotspur FC and Australian National Team's Charlotte Grant. Charlotte tells us about overcoming moments of self-doubt before the Olympics and how she shifts her mind from negative to positive. We chat about why she thinks it's important to invest not just in the players, but the entire staff around the women's team. We also find out what masterclasses she's taken! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SGP is joined by Portland Thorns and Irish National Team's Marissa Sheva. Marissa tells us about playing soccer and running track at Penn State and why she believes being a multi-sport athlete actually prevented her from burn out. We learn about her journey from her injury and feeling like she didn't belong and how that can be a scary time but having a support system off and on the field helped her get through that time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SGP is joined by Kansas City Current and USYNT's Claire Hutton. Claire tells us about her decision forgo playing at UNC to sign an NWSL contract at 17 years old with Kansas City. We learn about her experience playing on the boy's high school team and what she's learned from her teammates at the Current We also talk about when and why we wouldn't mind a Coach yelling at us. Get your VKTRY insoles today at https://www.vktry.com/SBG20 and use discount code SGP20 for 20% off! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SGP is joined by Mexican National Team and Tigres UANL Women’s Biancca Sierra. Bianca talks to us about the challenges of coming back from her ACL injury and pregnancy and what she’s learned about herself as a player during this journey. We also hear more about her wife and her becoming the first openly gay athletes in Mexican history and what's it's been like to know they've inspired more athletes to feel comfortable in doing the same. Get your VKTRY insoles today at https://www.vktry.com/SBG20 and use discount code SGP20 for 20% off! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SGP is joined by former Notre Dame, current USYNT and PSG's Eva Gaetino. Eva tells us about the challenges of being a leader and what she learned about herself when she was a captain. We also talk about her achieving her dreams to play overseas and the challenges that come with playing there. We also learn how she overcomes failure, including playing in a new position with her mindset shift. Get your VKTRY insoles today at https://www.vktry.com/SBG20 and use discount code SGP20 for 20% off! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SGP is joined by Seattle Reign and Wales National Team's Lily Woodham. Lily tells us about the secret to overcoming mistakes, as well as how valuable self-worth is and embracing frustration, advice every athlete needs to hear. We also ask Lily about what it's been like playing abroad in the NWSL and what her first season here has been like. Get your VKTRY insoles today at https://www.vktry.com/SBG20 and use discount code SGP20 for 20% off! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SGP is joined by Angel City FC's Kennedy Fuller. Kennedy was captain of the USYNT and 2023 Gatorade National Girls Soccer Player of the Year. When she was just 16 years old she became a pro signing a three year contract with Angel City FC. We chat about her decision to graduate high school in two and a half years, committing to UNC and her time last year training with 4 NWSL teams and Chelsea FC. Kennedy tells us about how she deals with self-doubt, her reminders to herself about why she plays and the important role her support system plays in her career. Get your VKTRY insoles today at https://www.vktry.com/SBG20 and use discount code SGP20 for 20% off! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SGP is joined by Wrexham AFC's Lili Jones. Lili tells us about growing up down the street of the Wrexham stadium and going to all the games to now playing on the women's team. Lili also tells us about her time with Ryan Reynolds and Rob McElhenney the owners of Wrexham and being apart of the docu-series "Welcome to Wrexham. Plus we explain to her what a "pasta party" is and why her team needs to have them! Come watch the Wrexham AFC Women play this Summer! LA - July 19th Wrexham AFC vs SoCal FC LA - July 21st Wrexham AFC vs Tigers Femenil U-19 Portland - July 26th Wrexham AFC vs Portland Thorns Academy Get your tickets today: https://www.wrexhamafc.co.uk/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SGP is joined by current Racing Louisville Assistant Coach and former Canadian National Team, Carmelina Moscato. Carmelina played in three World Cups, won an Olympic bronze medal and a Concacaf gold medal as a player for the Canada Women’s National Team and a Liga MX Femenil title as the head coach. Moscato has coached at the college, youth national team and pro levels – and she has also been a league commissioner and a director of football – with her career taking her to Australia, the Bahamas, Denmark, Mexico and the U.S. Get your VKTRY insoles today at https://www.vktry.com/SBG20 and use discount code SGP20 for 20% off! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

SGP is joined by current broadcaster and former English National Team legend Lianne Sanderson to discuss how her ability to see the field has shaped her as a broadcaster, how the game and leagues have grown since her early days at NWSL, and what pride month means to her. Get your VKTRY insoles today at https://www.vktry.com/SBG20 and use discount code SGP20 for 20% off! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the podcast we chat with Canadian National Team and Washington Spirit's Gabrielle Carle. Gabrielle tells us about her belief in the growth mindset and how she continues to grow as a player. She also tells us about switching positions, going from forward to defender and how it took her a few seasons to accept the change and learn to love it. Get your VKTRY insoles today at https://www.vktry.com/SBG20 and use discount code SGP20 for 20% off! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We chat with Harvard University and Canadian National Team's, Jade Rose. Jade tells us about her devastating injury that had her leave NZ right before the World Cup and how her team rallied around her during that tough time. She also tells us about how her time off the field helped lead her to finding her passion off the field to be a mentor to minority athletes in the sport and how she can be a resource for them. We also learn how Jade is able to balance college academics and soccer while being on the National Team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the podcast we chat with former NWSL Kealia Watt. We chat with Kealia about the challenging decision to retire and finding her purpose after leaving the game. Kealia tells us about how becoming a mom is the best thing to ever happen to her. We have a heartfelt discussion on the challenges of parenting while balancing professional commitments, emphasizing the importance of cherishing special moments with loved ones. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the podcast we chat with Sports Nutritionist, Reilly Beatty. Reilly answers a ton of your questions about how to fuel your body as a female athlete. Topics we discuss include: -pregame/training food -post training fuel -foods to help build muscle -best snacks -favorite sports drink Check out more tips from Reilly at her website www.reillybeatty.com and her IG @reilly.beatty.nutrition Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the podcast we chat with Utah Royal's Carly Nelson. Carly tells us about her transformative experience of playng overseas and why she recommends it for other pros. She also tells us about the impact of having a coach who communicates transparently with their players. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices