Track and field legend Allyson Felix didn’t settle for crumbs—she took the whole darn cake. She joins the party with Abby Wambach, Billie Jean King, and Julie Foudy to get real about the Nike showdown that reset maternity protections, the women-first power plays behind Saysh and Always Alpha, and what’s next for track & field. And because it’s a party, we brought friends: GOATs Ask the GOAT—Mia Hamm, Coco Gauff, and Mikaela Shiffrin pop in with surprise questions for “The Kinger”. Thank you @Miahamm we didn’t see this one coming. Show Notes: A huge thank you to our presenting sponsor Ally - the bank that’s your ally. Ally Bank, Member FDIC.  ⁠https://www.ally.com Join the Party Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — ⁠⁠https://www.youtube.com/@WelcomeToThePartyShow⁠ Instagram — ⁠https://www.instagram.com/welcometothepartyshow/⁠ TikTok — ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Go Deeper Saysh — Allyson’s women-first shoe brand: ⁠https://saysh.com/⁠ Always Alpha — Allyson’s management company for women athletes and coaches: ⁠https://always-alpha.com/⁠ She Runs the World — Allyson’s documentary (Tribeca): ⁠https://tribecafilm.com/films/she-runs-the-world-2025⁠ The Next Day — by Melinda French Gates: ⁠https://www.melindafrenchgates.com/⁠ Abby post-game interview vs. Japan: ⁠https://youtu.be/kwAMN1-1p_c?si=MZDQ0KkoamVOS6YR⁠ Julie’s Party Starter summer highlight: Marta’s two goals in Copa América Femenina — ⁠https://youtu.be/tiUWtL0vYVc?si=9Bt9FebPKDeEXwoX⁠ Billie’s Party Starter summer highlight: Mboko wins the Canadian Open - ⁠https://www.wtatennis.com/videos/4336505/champions-reel-how-victoria-mboko-won-montreal-2025⁠ Abby’s Party Starter summer highlight: Katie’s 7th consecutive 800m freestyle gold —https://youtu.be/UHRbHxeEexM?si=lFFAVnEVSJmm72GE #AllysonFelix #BillieJeanKing #AbbyWambach #JulieFoudy #WomensSports #Nike #EqualityInSports #Olympics #TrackAndField

Welcome to the Party! Hosted by Abby Wambach, Julie Foudy, and the legend herself Billie Jean King, this is the women’s sports party you’ve been waiting for. Twice a week we’re diving into the biggest moments, boldest conversations, and brightest stars in women’s sports - all while having a sh*t ton of fun.First episode launching Thursday, September 4th! New episodes drop every Tuesday & Thursday after that. Come celebrate, elevate, and join the Party. Because this one’s for YOU. Subscribe on YouTube, Apple, Spotify 👉 http://bit.ly/4mKrnwb

From center court to center stage, she’s rolling straight from Saturday’s win into today’s party — and we get the front-row seat. 2-Time US Open champion Aryna Sabalenka joins Abby Wambach, Billie Jean King, and Julie Foudy fresh off defending her crown in New York — the first woman since Serena Williams in 2014 to pull it off.    Welcome to the Party gets the inside scoop on how Aryna is redefining power tennis-- what sportscaster Mary Carillo termed "Big Babe Tennis"-- and how she turned Slam heartbreaks into fuel, went from not being ready for the fight to bringing it when everything was on the line, and why learning to control her emotions was the key to breaking through. So pull up a chair and pop the cork — the US Open champ just rolled into the party. Show Notes: A huge thank you to our presenting sponsor Ally - the bank that’s your ally. Ally Bank, Member FDIC. https://www.ally.com Join the Party: Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube —⁠ https://www.youtube.com/@WelcomeToThePartyShow ⁠Instagram —⁠ https://www.instagram.com/welcometothepartyshow/ ⁠TikTok —⁠ https://www.tiktok.com/@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Go Deeper: Aryna Sabalenka vs. Amanda Anisimova Extended Highlights | 2025 US Open Final: https://youtu.be/clVU6bPiwbY?si=qgLvrnFr_bqh9uZX Naomi Osaka and her Labubus Billie Jean Bling ⁠https://youtube.com/shorts/vKXijWxgbE8?si=N21zKID_cso3y2aB⁠ Althea Glitterson ⁠https://youtube.com/shorts/98_Rd0MLTkQ?si=OXQw-Az85gNF96jP ⁠LaBillieBu  ⁠https://youtube.com/shorts/2CU9jZaVd_Y?si=IErc-6wZlb3LPG7S⁠ Andre Swagassi ⁠https://youtube.com/shorts/ERiG02_lLnk?si=iQm7nqY7WqbD3Hfb⁠ Arthur flash ⁠https://youtube.com/shorts/FkvCggWLhKA?si=GeUnlcYyM_oaATio⁠ Kerin Rose Gold - The creator of Osaka’s Labubus  ⁠https://www.instagram.com/kerinrosegold⁠ The Book Sabalenka credits helped her with mindset change: ⁠https://www.jamesrdotymd.com/magicshop⁠ Time Stamps: 00:00 Begin Interview  02:42 Billie Jean King’s US Open Highlights and Experiences 04:59 Big Babe Tennis 05:30 Sabalenka’s Journey to Victory 08:45 Our Party Starter presented by Ally 11:29 Welcome to the party Sabalenka 12:57 Big Babe Tennis 14:20 Self-Talk and Emotional Control 16:30 Is Being a Professional Athlete Hard or Easy? 17:30 Her Love of the Game 20:22 Closing Thoughts

Rebecca Lowe, NBC’s Premier League host and Olympic broadcaster, joins a special youth sports edition of the party with Julie Foudy and Abby Wambach to swap survival tips on the chaos of parenting athletes. From snack duty and car-ride confessions to sideline drama, they break down the do’s and don’ts every parent needs — surviving youth sports is always better with a party. Plus, Julie and Abby talk WNBA playoff stunners, Billie Jean King Cup winners, NWSL solidarity, and more!Go Deeper:-Rebecca Lowe’s Youth Sports Instagram post that inspired this talk:https://www.instagram.com/reel/DHi-wT-p-LQ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link-NWSL Supports WNBA with “Pay Them What You Owe Them” Shirts:https://www.instagram.com/p/DOmtSSYjabC/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link-Where to watch the Women’s Rugby World Cup Championship – Saturday, September 27:https://www.rugbyworldcup.com/2025/en/where-to-watchThank You to Our Sponsors:-Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC-Find a host or co-host at http://airbnb.com/host

Party people, the debate is on! Julie Foudy and Abby Wambach take on the ultimate question: Is being a professional athlete hard — yes or no? To settle it once and for all, they texted a who’s who of sporting legends and friends — from Mia Hamm, Brandi Chastain, and Alex Morgan to Sue Bird, Crystal Dunn, Midge Purce, Peyton Manning, Kerri Walsh Jennings, Hilary Knight and more. Now it’s your turn to weigh in: Are you Team Abby or Team Julie? The Party People will be the ultimate decider. No pressure. (Join the debate on Instagram @ Welcometothepartyshow) Join the Party Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Thank you to our sponsors! A huge thank you to our presenting sponsor Ally — Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC. Get started today with Growtherapy.com http://www.growtherapy.com/welcometotheparty Get 25% off your first month at Ritual.com  http://www.ritual.com/welcometotheparty

The legend herself joins the party! Billie Jean King sits down with Julie Foudy and Abby Wambach to talk about the Billie Jean King Cup — the World Cup of tennis. From its founding in 1963 to today’s $7 million prize pool, the Cup has become one of the most important stages in women’s sports. Plus, a surprise Ask the Kinger segment; Brandi Chastain and Kendall Coyne Schofield drop in to the party. Join the Party: Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Go Deeper Billie Jean King Cup – Official Site https://www.billiejeankingcup.com/en Where to Watch the Billie Jean King Cup – Tennis Channel Broadcast Info https://www.tennischannel.com/en-us/tournaments/all/151 History of the Billie Jean King Cup https://www.billiejeankingcup.com/en/about/history Tory Burch “Billie Blue” Jackets https://www.billiejeankingcup.com/en/news/tory-burch-returns-as-official-outfitter-of-the-billie-jean-king-cup-winners-jackethttps://youtu.be/j22DnEqXPiM?si=5oRGOsqhPtQX9gd1 Corretta Scott King Quotes https://parade.com/1331167/shameikarhymes/coretta-scott-king-quotes/ About Leonardo da Vinci https://www.history.com/articles/leonardo-da-vinci The Complete History of the signature shoe https://www.forbes.com/sites/timnewcomb/2023/03/28/the-complete-history-of-signature-shoes-in-tennis/ Thank you to our sponsors: *A huge thank you to our presenting sponsor Ally — Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC. *Start your career coaching today at http://www.strawberry.me/welcometotheparty  *Find a host or co-host at http://airbnb.com/host *Get 25% off your first month at http://www.ritual.com/welcometotheparty

The WNBA playoffs kick off this weekend, and labor negotiations are heating up with an October 31 deadline looming. So who else would we call to the pod but Breanna Stewart — three-time WNBA champ, Olympic gold medalist, four-time NCAA champ, MVP, mom, co-founder of Unrivaled, and oh yeah… VP of the players’ union. Stewie breaks it all down with Julie and Abby: the Liberty’s title chase, the state of the league, being a mom of two, and how she juggles it all! Show Notes A huge thank you to our presenting sponsor Ally — the bank that’s your ally. Ally Bank, Member FDIC. ⁠https://www.ally.com/⁠ Join the Party Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — https://www.youtube.com/@WelcomeToThePartyShow Instagram — https://www.instagram.com/welcometothepartyshow/ TikTok — https://www.tiktok.com/@welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Go Deeper Stewie’s World https://shop.stewiesworld.com/ The WNBA Playoff Picture https://bleacherreport.com/articles/25242125-updated-2025-wnba-playoff-bracket-standings-after-storm-clinch-playoff-spot The latest on the CBA in the WNBA  https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/wnba/2025/07/25/breanna-stewart-wnba-cba-negotiations/85345157007/#:~:text=The%20Liberty%20forward%20is%20also,level%20is%20depending%20on%20them. #BreannaStewart #BillieJeanKing #AbbyWambach #JulieFoudy #WNBA #WNBAPlayoffs #WomensBasketball #Unrivaled #Liberty #CBA

This is the first episode where Abby and Julie give ALL the power to the party people! In this special family edition, they hand control over to the people closest to them — Glennon Doyle, their kids, and even Julie’s sister. When family takes over, all bets are off! Join the Party:Follow @welcometothepartyshow on:YouTube — @welcometothepartyshowInstagram — @welcometothepartyshowTikTok — @welcometothepartyshowEmail — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Thank you to our sponsors:Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDICHead to Quince.com/WELCOMETOTHEPARTY for free shipping and 365-day returns. #family #BillieJeanKing #AbbyWambach #JulieFoudy #GlennonDoyle

The WNBA Finals are about to begin, but at Welcome to the Party we’re running our own 2025 WNBA Dream Team Mock Finals. Abby and Julie go head-to-head by picking their best 8 players from the 2025 season (assuming all players are healthy. ??) Hall of Famer and WNBA Legend Sue Bird stops by the Party to judge who wins in a best of ONE series, Team Julie or Team Abby. Let’s just say the loser has to wear a special hat ??. Join the Party: Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Go Deeper: Listen to Sue Bird: * A Touch More Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-touch-more-with-sue-bird-megan-rapinoe/id1510142364 * A Bird’s Eye View Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/@SueBird  * Sue Statue Reveal: https://abcnews.go.com/GMA/Living/retired-wnba-star-sue-bird-makes-history-1st/story?id=124741140  Thank you to our sponsors: * Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC Head to https://moshlife.com/welcometotheparty to save 20% off plus free shipping.  Start your therapy journey today by visiting:  https://growtherapy.com/start/welcometotheparty Visit https://www.wayfair.com to get your go to items for game day.  #WNBA #WNBAPlayoffs #WNBAFinals #WNBADraft #WNBABasketball #WomenInSports 

Call it planned, call it necessary, call it a meltdown — Cheryl Reeve gave us an all-time WNBA moment. Three f-bombs, a suspension, and the internet divided. Was she making a calculated stand for her team, or did she just lose it in the moment? Julie Foudy, Abby Wambach, and Billie Jean King dive into the chaos — and can you guess which one of us secretly kind of loved it? We debate it all in this episode of Welcome to the Party. Join the Party: Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Go Deeper  Cheryl Reeve Debate Video of Cheryl Reeve storming the court (Game 3 vs. Mercury): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YMzcrp8tieA Cheryl Reeve’s full post-game presser: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TMsIHSUsZNM WNBA’s official statement on her suspension:https://www.wnba.com/news/minnesota-lyx-head-coach-cheryl-reeve-suspended WNBA Playoffs Game 5 timing: Tuesday at 9:30 PM ET on ESPN2. Where to watch: ESPN2 (linear), ESPN app/ESPN+ (stream). Finals start: Friday, October 3. Other Sports   Cricket: link to information about the Women’s Cricket World Cup: https://www.icc-cricket.com/index Rugby World Cup / World Championships extended highlights: https://youtu.be/uh4k1KBR1KE?si=ihTiQ4m-3yWS4m2v BJK Cup Results (China): https://www.billiejeankingcup.com/en/news/bjk-cup-finals-attendance-up-15-year-on-year Athletes Unlimited Volleyball: link to schedule, how/where to watch - https://auprosports.com/volleyball/ Thank you to our sponsors: *Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC * Find a host or co-host at https://www.airbnb.com/host/ * Head to https://www.quince.com/Welcometotheparty for free shipping and 365-day returns. #WNBA #WNBAPlayoffs #WNBAFinals #MinnesotaLynx #PhoenixMercury #CherylReeve

We’re throwing Alex Morgan a Welcome to the Party retirement party — and it’s exactly the kind of sendoff she deserves. The two-time World Cup champion and Olympic gold medalist joins Abby Wambach and Julie Foudy to talk about what comes after greatness: motherhood, learning to slow down after years of rushing, and building what’s next through her venture fund, foundation, and TOGETHXR (because, let’s be honest, everybody watches women’s sports).  Join the Party: Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Keep the Party Going: -Alex’s first goal in Philly — Abby’s assist, Julie’s call, Alex’s finish: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v= -All the moments that made her a legend, from World Cups to tea time:  https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/41161833/ranking-greatest-moments-uswnt-star-alex-morgan-career -TogetherX, because everybody really does watch women’s sports: https://www.togethxr.com/ -The Alex Morgan Foundation — changing the game for girls everywhere: https://www.alexmorganfoundation.org/ -The Camino de Santiago, what finally made her slow down: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Camino_de_Santiago -Unrivaled, the women’s league built by Stewie and Phee — and backed by Alex: https://www.unrivaled.basketball/ Thank You to our Sponsors: * Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC * Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com  https://www.onepeloton.com/ * Visit https://www.wayfair.com/ to get your go to items for game day.  * Find a host or co-host at https://www.airbnb.com/host/homes

From high school fields to World Cups and the Olympics, Abby Wambach and Julie Foudy talk about what makes a great teammate — the ones who push you, support you, and change how you play the game. They share stories about Mia Hamm, Michelle Akers, Carla Overbeck, Brandi Chastain, and Christine Lilly  as they dig into the balance between competition and connection. Join the Party: Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Go Deeper Dr. Colleen Hacker | Pacific Lutheran University — bio, career highlights, and her work with Olympic and World Cup teams. Books & Publications by Dr. Colleen Hacker — including Catch Them Being Good (with Tony DiCicco). Achieving Excellence: Mastering Mindset for Peak Performance in Sport and Life — Dr. Hackers latest book on mindset and performance. Wolfpack by Abby Wambach — Abby’s New York Times bestselling book on leadership and teamwork. Abby Header goal from Megan Rapinoe 2011 World Cup Quarterfinal - One of the best goals EVER. Thank you to our sponsors: *Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC *Start your career coaching today at https://www.strawberry.me/welcometotheparty  *https://www.joinmidi.com/

The Las Vegas Aces went from chaos to champs — and it all started with leadership, trust, and a text message from A’ja Wilson that set the tone for one of the most remarkable comebacks in WNBA history. ESPN analyst LaChina Robinson joins Julie Foudy and Abby Wambach to break down how the Aces turned a midseason collapse into a championship sweep, what makes Becky Hammon’s connection with her players so unique, and why the upcoming WNBA CBA negotiations could reshape the entire league. Join the Party: Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Go Deeper: Aces Press Conference after sweeping in the finals 10/10/2025: https://youtu.be/iMS2ApUbRsA?si=b0EEAIqJxe6ekXMS Natalie Grabow became the first ever female finisher in iconic IRONMAN World Championship: https://www.tri247.com/triathlon-news/age-group/natalie-grabow-world-record-ironman-world-championship-kona Napheesa Collier goes OFF on WNBA Commissioner Cathy Engelbert:https://youtu.be/KF4SMnP5-rU?si=nNT2GieEiVdhUWsN Thank you to our sponsors: Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at https://www.onepeloton.com/ Head to https://www.quince.com/Welcometotheparty for free shipping and 365-day returns. Get 25% off your first month at Ritual.com https://www.ritual.com/welcometotheparty Find a host or co-host at http://airbnb.com/host

Everyone remembers the coach who changed everything. Abby and Julie swap stories about the ones who shaped their journeys — from youth soccer to the US Women’s National Team and the Olympic stage — with legends like Tony DiCicco, Emma Hayes, and Pia Sundhage. And Abby turns Welcome to the Party into a surprise party with one spontaneous call to her old high school coach. Join the Party: Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Thank you to our sponsors: Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC Start your therapy journey today by visiting : https://growtherapy.com/start/welcometotheparty

Gabby Thomas doesn’t just run fast — she does everything at full speed. Three Olympic golds in Paris, degrees from Harvard and Texas, groundbreaking public health research, Athlos League owner, and oh yeah… Vogue and SI Swimsuit covers. We slowed her down long enough to stop by the Party. Join the Party: Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Go Deeper: Learn more about Athlos League: https://www.athlos.com The Impossible Mile: https://youtu.be/-NLda6xHUpQ?si=r9Vg9ejlRcFEQldS Sydney McLaughlin-Levrone record 400 meters: https://youtu.be/EDvEZ2_ZcA4?si=-2ZGToWYqlAkE4qP Gabby 200M Gold Medal Run - Paris: https://youtu.be/qTl5OJ2Qmjo?si=STAXNxtAR5wWRBhw Gabby 200M Bronze Medal Run - Tokyo: https://youtu.be/UI17_3ciVeM?si=r-IMtbDD80FLv7uF Christine Sinclair becomes the first Portland Thorns player to have a jersey retired. Here are 12 of her best all-time goals with the Thorns in case you want to know why: https://www.nwslsoccer.com/news/12-of-christine-sinclair-s-best-thorns-goals-in-honor-of-no-12-jersey-retirement  PWHL Drops 2025/2026 Schedule: https://www.thepwhl.com/en/news/2025/october/1/pwhl-unveils-2025-26-regular-season-schedule Thank you to our sponsors: Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC Start your therapy journey today by visiting  https://growtherapy.com/start/welcometotheparty Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at https://www.onepeloton.com

The party people asked—and Abby Wambach and Julie Foudy answered. From whether parents should coach their own kids, to how early specialization is hurting youth sports, to what they regret (and don’t) in life, this Q&A Power to the Party People episode has it all. Plus, Abby uses a Sharpie and lip gloss to teach Julie the real meaning of “offside.”   Keep the Party Going: Linda Flanagan - Take Back The Game - https://lindaflanaganauthor.com Join the Party: Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC-Start your therapy journey today by visiting  https://growtherapy.com/start/welcometotheparty/ -Start your career coaching today at https://www.strawberry.me/welcometotheparty

Las Vegas Aces head coach Becky Hammon joins Abby and Julie fresh off another WNBA championship run — and she’s got stories. She shares the best advice she ever got from Greg Popovich, the one thing she values more than any ring, and the real story behind her now-famous hooded blazer look. Plus, let us not forget the “Tootsie Roll” - Becky shares the history behind her famous dance moves. Join the Party: Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Keep the Party Going: -America’s 25 most powerful women in sports: https://www.forbes.com/sites/maggiemcgrath/2025/10/22/americas-most-powerful-women-in-sports-2025/ -Kate Douglass sets NEW WORLD RECORD with sub-50-second 100m free at Toronto World Cup: https://youtu.be/uaoi_Kqu9fs?si=3XHgzfkizit12qw0- - Becky doing the “Tootsie Roll”: https://x.com/WNBA/status/1979374839883534478 -Aj’a and Becky’s relationship: https://x.com/YahooSports/status/1974316954925380037-A New Documentary in the works about Becky: https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2025/10/17/smac-2463-plan-documentary-on-aces-becky-hammon/?issueId=MFJ2T5F7BJC4DBVMOGF3TMQC4U  Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com  https://www.onepeloton.com/ -Visit https://www.wayfair.com/ to get your go to items for game day. -Find a host or co-host at https://www.airbnb.com/host/homes

Before there was Welcome to the Party, there was a chance meeting at an Angel City game. Abby Wambach, Julie Foudy, and Billie Jean King revisit the moment that changed everything, the history between them, the unexpected timing, and the shift that followed. And Abby reveals why stepping into this show has brought her back to life. RSVP to attend the Ally House in San Jose for NWSL Championship week Nov. 21-22 at https://www.ally.com/ally-house-2025 Join the Party: Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Keep the Party Going: Brandi Carlisle - Returning to myself: https://youtu.be/UTgD4AYJlJw?si=ikLc7i46wRzAUhpV  The original nine: https://youtu.be/WCj8VJ-SXJ8?si=pTcfp7Gd_bfGp3jj Thank you to our sponsors: Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC Midlife is a Journey. Midi Is your Map: https://www.joinmidi.com CHAPTERS: 00:00 – The Party Begins 00:12 – “The Universe Brought Us Together” 04:05 – Why We’re Finally Telling Our Origin Story 05:09 – Abby’s Return to Women’s Sports 08:12 – The Angel City Moment That Sparked the Podcast 11:03 – Billie’s $1 Contract + The Original Nine 13:19 – The Advice That Changed Everything 16:17 – Passing the Fight Through Generations 24:42 – Why This Podcast Brought Us Back to Life 32:10 – What WTTP Is Really About: Community, Light & Women’s Sports

Nebraska is 24–0, the #1 team in the country, and Dani Busboom Kelly is the woman leading the charge. The former Husker star and John Cook protégé joins Julie Foudy and Abby Wambach to talk about building culture, mom life, cowboy hats, and what it’s like to coach a team that never loses. Oh—and Billie Jean King crashes the interview with a surprise call you don't want to miss! RSVP to attend the Ally House in San Jose for NWSL Championship week Nov. 21-22 at https://www.ally.com/ally-house-2025 Join the Party: Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Keep the Party Going: Marta and Luana, an incredible act of sportsmanship: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQx-cbWEe_g/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link Keep up on the NWSL Playoff Race: https://www.nwslsoccer.com/ Kansas City, December — the 2025 NCAA Women’s Volleyball Final Four: https://www.ncaa.com/sports/volleyball-women/d1 Washington celebrates their Big Ten Championship in honor of Mia: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQ2mrFVEnXm/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link Emily Thames, Angelo State CRAZY goal: https://www.instagram.com/p/DQah07lABCQ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link 92,003 fans at Memorial Stadium on August 30, 2023, part of an event called "Volleyball Day in Nebraska: https://huskers.com/volleyballday Bergen Reilly warms up hands of Cambell Flynn as she enters the game: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DQRg0yqjIeP/ Roots of the Fight - Dani’s Billie Jean King Gear: https://www.rootsoffight.com/pages/search-results?q=billie+jean+king No place like Nebraska - ESPN Documentary: https://www.espn.com/watch/film/5c88f17e-df1c-41fd-9c73-ac0ccf3835de/no-place-like-nebraska Thank you to our sponsors: * Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC * RSVP to attend the Ally House in San Jose for NWSL Championship week Nov. 21-22 at https://www.ally.com/ally-house-2025 * Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com  https://www.onepeloton.com/ * Get 25% off your first month at Ritual.com: https://www.ritual.com/welcometotheparty * Start your career coaching today at https://www.strawberry.me/welcometotheparty 

At just 25, Ali Truwit has lived a story few could imagine — and even fewer could survive. Ali’s life forever changed when her left foot was bitten off by a shark off the coast of Atlantic waters while in Turks and Caicos with a friend and teammate from Yale - just days after her college graduation. Ali returned to the pool just six weeks later. And within a year, represented Team USA at the Paralympics - taking home two silver medals. Next, she set her sights on the New York City Marathon. In this powerful conversation, Billie Jean King, Abby Wambach, and Julie Foudy dive into Ali’s remarkable journey of resilience, purpose, and strength — from dumping tears out of her goggles to creating Stronger Than You Think, her foundation helping others heal through sport. Join the Party: Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Keep the Party Going: Vladimir Guerrero Jr. honored Canadian hockey legend Marie-Philip Poulin by wearing her Team Canada jersey into Game 7 of the World Series: https://www.mlb.com/news/vladimir-guerrero-jr-wears-marie-philip-poulin-team-canada-jersey-to-world-series-game-7 Ali’s Foundation, Stronger Than You Think: https://strongerthanyouthink.org/ Ali’s book that helped her, When Bad Things Happen to Good People: https://www.amazon.com/When-Things-Happen-Good-People/dp/1400034728 Thank you to our sponsors: * Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC * Start your career coaching today at Strawberry.me: https://strawberry.me/?promotionCode=WELCOMETOTHEPARTY&utm_campaign=Natively&utm_source=youtube_and_podcast&utm_term=welcometotheparty Chapters: 00:00:00 Party Starts 00:00:22 Billie Jean King on the Dodgers’ Epic World Series 00:05:25 Meet Ali Truwit: Shark Attack Survivor Turned Paralympian 00:10:08 Running for a Cause – $220K for Prosthetic Blades 00:12:56 The Full-Circle NYC Marathon Moment 00:16:05 The Shark Attack Story 00:18:58 Turning Trauma into Purpose 00:20:41 From Survivor to Paralympian 00:24:46 Reliving the Trauma in Paris 00:26:57 “Stronger Than You Think” Documentary 00:27:53 Grief and the Athlete Mindset 00:29:22 The Power of Vulnerability 00:30:51 “Why Me?” and Gratitude 00:33:43 Marathon Finish with Her Mom 00:35:54 What’s Next For Ali – L.A. 2028

UConn women’s basketball head coach Geno Auriemma does a drive by the pod — he’s got the rings in the trunk, stories in the glovebox — and nothing’s off limits. Geno talks about the next chapter of UConn basketball led by Azzi Fudd and rising star Sarah Strong, what it’s like coaching in a world of transfer portal chaos, and how the program keeps evolving through generations of stars like Taurasi, Bird, and Bueckers. Plus, he dishes out a few senior superlatives to some of his all-time greats.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: -TCS NYC Marathon winner Hellen Obiri embraces her family after the win: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DQkHQcsCcWQ/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== -Geno shows off his 12 rings: https://www.tiktok.com/@brwsports/video/7496649276672544031 -NWSL Playoff Picture: https://www.nwslsoccer.com/playoffs -Blue Jays star Vladimir Guerrero Jr. arriving to the World Series Game 7 in a game-worn Marie-Philip Poulin Team Canada jersey: https://www.mlb.com/news/vladimir-guerrero-jr-wears-marie-philip-poulin-team-canada-jersey-to-world-series-game-7 -Cricket World Cup Final Highlights - India vs South Africa: https://youtu.be/frf8Drafn5A?si=gQSHPeAIg_Idr0_N   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com  https://www.onepeloton.com/ -Find a host or co-host at https://www.airbnb.com/host/homes

In this special Halloween edition Orlando Pride VP of Soccer Operations and Sporting Director Haley Carter join the crew to dig into what’s haunting women’s soccer — from questions around the salary cap to how the league can keep its biggest stars playing at home. No jump scares — just a really good conversation you don’t want to miss. It’s a thoughtful look at how the NWSL is evolving, even as the ghosts of past challenges linger. ?? Zero tricks, all treats. Join the Party:Follow @welcometothepartyshow on:YouTube — @welcometothepartyshowInstagram — @welcometothepartyshowTikTok — @welcometothepartyshowEmail — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Keep the Party Going: - NWSL Collective Bargaining Agreement – https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/41400681/nwsl-2024-cba-draft-free-agency-charter-flights-health-coverage-revenue-sharing - The Guardian: “The Women Who Saved the Afghan National Soccer Team” – https://www.theguardian.com/football/2021/aug/29/afghanistan-special-report-athletes-escape-kabul - USWNT players going to Europe isn’t an exodus. It’s an evolution - https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6742302/2025/10/23/women-soccer-uswnt-european-league-players/ Thank You to our Sponsors:* Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC* Head to https://www.quince.com/Welcometotheparty for free shipping and 365-day returns.

Julie, Abby, and Billie Jean King kick things off with the Billie Jean King Cup, the “World Cup of women’s tennis”, and what makes playing for your country hit different, from pressure to pride to full-on chaos in the locker room. Then, U.S. Women’s National Team head coach Emma Hayes joins the party, and this one goes way beyond X’s and O’s. From building a dynasty at Chelsea to winning Olympic gold in her first 10 games with the USWNT, Emma is now focused on something even bigger: completely redefining how women’s soccer is built. She breaks down her “female lens” approach, why 95% of sports science is still based on men, how that impacts everything from injuries to performance, and what it actually takes to design systems that work for women. We get into her groundbreaking approach to supporting athletes through pregnancy, the return of stars like Sophia Wilson and Tierna Davidson, and how she’s building a scalable blueprint that could change the entire future of the women’s game. Plus: the personal side of Emma, balancing motherhood, coaching at the highest level, and why this job isn’t just about winning…it’s about legacy.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: More information about the Billie Jean King Cup: https://www.billiejeankingcup.com/en How to watch America in the Billie Jean King Cup: https://www.billiejeankingcup.com/en/more/where-to-watch USWNT Upcoming Friendlies with Japan:  https://www.ussoccer.com/all-matches Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Find a host or co-host at https://www.airbnb.com/host/homes

UCLA is your 2026 National Champion and they made a statement doing it. Julie, Abby, and Billie Jean break down the Bruins’ dominant win, what set this team apart, and why their chemistry matters more than ever in today’s transfer portal era. With Jordan Robinson, they also dive into the Final Four, UConn’s loss, and the Geno Auriemma controversy everyone’s talking about. Plus: WNBA Draft buzz, transfer portal chaos, and a Party Starter packed with the biggest headlines in women’s sports.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: Follow Jordan Robinson  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jordanligons TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@heyjordanrobinson Book: Court Queens (history of women’s basketball)https://www.amazon.com/Court-Queens-Celebrate-Players-Basketball/dp/B0FGX73CKW Dawn Staley’s book: https://a.co/d/04jPSpG7 Gabriella Jaquez Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gabrielajaquezz/   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

Women’s sports has officially entered its billion-dollar era. The Women's National Basketball Association and the National Women's Soccer League have both crossed the billion-dollar valuation mark shifting the conversation from “Is this sustainable?” to “Who’s next?” In this episode, Julie Foudy and Abby Wambach debate which women’s league will be the next to break through. Abby makes the case for pro volleyball, pointing to the rapid rise of League One Volleyball and surging NCAA viewership. Julie argues for flag football, fueled by backing from the National Football League and its inclusion in the 2028 Summer Olympics. To strengthen their cases, they’re joined by Olympic medalist Kelsey Robinson Cook and world champion quarterback Diana Flores. It’s a spirited debate but it’s also a bigger conversation about growth, investment, and what it takes to build lasting power in women’s sports. Because when one league wins, the entire ecosystem moves forward.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: International Women’s Day Gift Directory Paralympics schedule Follow Diana Flores Diana’s Flag Football For Dummies Follow Kelsey Robinson Cook   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Join us and CARE this International Women’s Day and Women’s History month to help level the playing field for women. Sign the pledge at care.org/pledge

Four years after the loss of their daughter, Stanford soccer captain Katie Meyer, Steve and Gina Meyer join us to talk about grief, justice, and what comes next. With the lawsuit now settled, they share how they’re working alongside Stanford, expanding the impact of Katie Meyer’s Law, and turning unimaginable pain into protection for students everywhere. This is about legacy, accountability, and making sure no family walks this road alone.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Keep the Party Going: Katie's Save How to contact your local representative to help pass Katie Meyer’s Law ​​https://katiessave.org/hr5545/ Watch: Save: The Katie Meyer Story Suicide prevention hotline: 📞988 National Women’s History Museum National Women’s History Museum videos:  -She Is Not a Footnote -Women’s contributions being overlooked -Women are represented in less than 15% of all history taught -Lyda Hill Philanthropies - Science is the answer Unrivaled Championship Learn more about Athlete’s Unlimited and Odyssey Sims Championship: https://auprosports.com/basketball/ Hilary Knight and Megan Keller on Saturday Night Live Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

What can a country of 5 million teach the U.S. about winning? After Norway’s 18-gold domination at the Winter Games, Julie, Abby, and Billie Jean King sit down with legendary performance psychologist Dr. Colleen Hacker to unpack the real secret sauce: joy, autonomy, multiple sports and a radically different approach to youth athletics. From “Five Ring Fever” to Olympic pressure, this is a masterclass in mindset, mental health, and why the path to greatness might start with simply loving the game.    Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: From Norway to the American Way: https://www.aspeninstitute.org/blog-posts/from-norway-to-the-american-way/ About Dr.Colleen Hacker: https://sites.google.com/a/plu.edu/colleen-hacker/ Olympic Pressure: https://www.theatlantic.com/culture/2026/02/pressure-olympics-malinin-shiffrin/686097/   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com  https://www.onepeloton.com/ -Get your business data all in one place using Intuit Quickbooks. Visit https://quickbooks.intuit.com/ to learn more. -Go to hairstory.com/welcometotheparty and use code PARTY15 at checkout for 15% off your order.  

After a historic Olympic gold, the U.S. Men’s Hockey Team had a choice. They laughed at a joke targeting the women’s team. They didn’t apologize. They doubled down. And then they compounded it. This isn’t about one laugh. It’s about a pattern. Julie Foudy and Abby Wambach respond, not as pundits, but as women who have lived this script their entire careers. The minimization. The “boys will be boys.” The expectation that women should just be grateful to wear the jersey. There were multiple opportunities to repair the moment. Don’t laugh. Apologize. Take accountability. Don’t become a prop. Stand with your women’s team. This isn’t red vs. blue. It’s about respect. It’s about character. And it’s about ending the cycle of casual disrespect women in sports have endured for decades. We’re not moving on until behavior changes. No more silent solidarity. Not on our watch.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com

Olympic joy, heartbreak, and chaos all in one episode. Billie Jean King joins Julie and Abby fresh off Milan to break down Team USA’s record gold medal haul, Norway’s dominance, and why American women delivered two-thirds of the medals. From Hillary Knight’s gold-medal magic to Chloe Kim’s sportsmanship, Elana Meyers Taylor’s pure joy, and the wild ski-jumping “Penisgate” controversy, nothing’s off limits. Plus: post-Olympic blues, big-moment letdowns, and Julie’s fourth attempt to finally beat Abby in Minute to Win It. Will she ever win?   Join the Party: Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Instagram — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ TikTok — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: Penis Gate: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2026/feb/06/penisgate-winter-olympics-ski-jumpers-acid-penis-health-risks-explainer The Winn Brothers: https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/olympics/2026/02/19/haley-winn-three-brothers-olympics-matching-looks/88714742007/ USA Women’s Hockey wins gold: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7058003/2026/02/19/usa-canada-olympics-womens-hockey-gold-medal/ Chloe Kim hugging Choi Ga after Ga wins gold: https://sports.yahoo.com/video/chloe-kim-hugging-choi-ga-142928062.html Women’s Sports Foundation Travel and Training Fund: https://www.womenssportsfoundation.org/wsf_programs/travel-training/ Elana Meyers Taylor Interview: The REAL Cost Of Chasing GOLD Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC - Get an annual membership to http://shipt.com/ and order groceries delivered to your door with zero fees for orders over $35+. Download the app today.  - Shop SKIMS Fits Everybody collection at https://skims.com/. After your place your order, be sure to let them know we sent you! Select "podcast" in the survey and Welcome to the Party!  Check out the limited-edition Team USA collection at FIGS and get 15% off your first order at WearFigs.com with code FIXRX.

“Do superstitions even work?”
“Yes.”
Slap. Slap. Slap. This week on Welcome to the Party, Julie Foudy kicks things off solo (with cardboard cutouts of Abby Wambach and Billie Jean King in Milan, obviously) before diving into a women’s sports roundup from Mikaela Shiffrin making history to the U.S. women’s hockey team chasing gold, plus a fresh-look USWNT roster under Emma Hayes. Then Abby joins and it devolves beautifully: 100-step pregame routines, water bottle flips, same game underwear for four years, and the infamous three self-slaps before kickoff. Are superstitions secret weapons or mental traps? Either way…we’re letting it ride. Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Instagram — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ TikTok — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Keep the Party Going: USWNT SheBelieves Cup Roster: https://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2025/10/hayes-names-26-player-uswnt-training-camp-roster-october-matches-against-portugal-new-zealand Savy King’s incredible story: https://youtu.be/5XWP6HTvdug?si=8QoNLawOCO27Ga7v Savy King’s nonprofit, Savy King of Hearts: https://savykingofhearts.org/about/ Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com https://www.onepeloton.com/ -Visit https://www.wayfair.com/ to get your go to items for game day.

Abby and Billie Jean King check in from Milan with a Winter Games diary you honestly couldn’t script. USA Women’s Hockey is dominating on the ice, the arena energy is electric, and the city is buzzing. From superfans in full red-white-and-blue to an unexpected €10 moment at the Duomo, this is what the Games actually feel like on the ground. Dominance, chaos, and a little jet lag…welcome to Milan. Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Instagram — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ TikTok — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Keep the Party Going: Watch The Rise: The Inaugural Season of the Professional Women’s Hockey League: https://www.peacocktv.com/watch-online/movies/the-rise-the-inaugural-season-of-the-pwhl Watch The Rise: Gold Medal Girls of the X-Games: https://www.peacocktv.com/watch-online/movies/the-rise-the-gold-medal-girls-of-the-xgames/ Follow Marissa Kumari Tandon on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube @marissakumari Check out our Interview with Elana Meyers Taylor - the Gold Medal winning Bobsledder: The REAL Cost Of Chasing GOLD https://www.youtube.com/watch?si=OO-1fu95GSKGBZEi&v=IWrd9o_cuQ4&feature=youtu.be Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Find a host or co-host at https://www.airbnb.com/host/homes -Head to https://www.quince.com/Welcometotheparty for free shipping and 365-day returns. -Check out the limited-edition Team USA collection at FIGS and get 15% off your first order at WearFigs.com with code FIXRX. -Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com https://www.onepeloton.com/ -Shop deals and member-exclusive savings all season long at https://www.shipt.com/ -You need some GOODLES mac and cheese in your life! Trust me, you and your whole family will love them. Pick up GOODLES on your next shopping trip.

Elana Meyers Taylor has competed in four Winter Olympic Games. She’s won five Olympic medals. She’s the most decorated Black athlete in Winter Olympic history. And she’s still chasing gold. But what makes Elana extraordinary isn’t just what she’s done on the ice, it’s how she’s doing it. In this conversation, Abby, Julie, and Billie Jean sit down with the bobsled legend to talk about switching sports after a failed Olympic softball dream, driving one of the most physically brutal events in the Games, and what it really feels like to pull G-forces that can wreck your spine. They also dive into something bigger: motherhood on tour. Elana travels the world with her two young sons, both deaf, one with Down syndrome, learning ASL as a family while navigating a sport that still doesn’t financially support mothers the way it should. She opens up about sponsorships, childcare costs, why she may walk away with debt instead of a paycheck, and how she’s helping change what’s possible for parents in Olympic sport. This is a conversation about resilience, representation, and attacking the track of your life head on, even when the odds, and the infrastructure, aren’t built for you. Party People, buckle up. *Correction: In this episode, we misstated details about the Unrivaled 1v1 tournament. The semifinals are Chelsea Gray vs. Kelsey Plum and Aliyah Boston vs. Allisha Gray. The semis and finals are all being held February 14, 2026, in Miami.* Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: -Save: The Katie Meyer Story | E60 -The US Curling team beats Italy to advance: https://youtu.be/9R1riGWFR-0?si=k8_dtggBxlM-jeqF -Kendall Coyne Schofield's son gets puck mid-game: https://youtu.be/9bQIbSBB_9A?si=HEWSaR6cqQFQFk6R -Olympic schedule: https://www.nbcolympics.com/schedule -Follow Elana Meyers Taylor: https://www.instagram.com/elanameyerstaylor/   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com  https://www.onepeloton.com/ 00:00:00 – Welcome00:05:05 – The record Elana's quietly chasing00:11:15 – What 5 G’s really feel like00:14:30 – “My back is trashed”, the physical toll00:21:45 – Four months in Europe with two little kids00:28:00 – The cost of childcare, travel, and chasing gold00:31:40 – Why she could walk away in debt00:39:00 – “Attack the track” — the mindset shift00:42:30 – What she wants her boys to see00:45:00 – What this Olympic run really means

Our hosts, Billie Jean King and Abby Wambach speak openly about the impact of Heated Rivalry and how it mirrors their own personal journeys. Then we’re crashing practice to celebrate the NYU women’s basketball team and their record-breaking run. And the Winter Olympics have officially taken over, and this week’s party starter is all about the moments and meaning behind the headlines. Olympic reporter and creator Marissa Tandon joins Abby, Julie, and Billie Jean to break down what’s unfolding in Milan and Cortina, from Team USA’s thrilling figure skating gold to Ilya Malinin’s history-making backflip, Amber Glenn’s resilience on the biggest stage, and the layers beneath the results that make women’s sports so compelling right now. The conversation also hits Lindsey Vonn’s fearless return, Breezy Johnson’s razor-thin downhill win, Hilary Knight chasing Olympic history, and why Chloe Kim’s ability to settle her nerves never stops impressing. Then it’s Coffee with the Kinger, and it’s one of those conversations that lingers. Billie Jean King leads a candid discussion sparked by Coco Gauff being filmed in what she believed was a private moment after her Australian Open loss. Together, the trio unpack emotional expression in elite sports, the reality of constant cameras, and the double standards female athletes still navigate. The conversation widens to legacy, visibility, and why stories like Heated Rivalry resonate far beyond the screen, especially for young athletes who are watching and learning what’s possible. From Olympic pressure to personal truth, this episode captures what Welcome to the Party does best: honoring where the game’s been, naming where it is, and asking what it takes to move it forward.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: Brandi Carlile Sings America the Beautiful at Super Bowl LX Follow NYU Women’s Hoops: https://www.instagram.com/nyuwomenshoops/ Read about NYU Women’s Basketball: https://www.espn.com/womens-college-basketball/story/_/id/47868788/nyu-women-team-sets-div-iii-mark-82nd-straight-win Olympic Schedule: https://www.nbcolympics.com/schedule Follow Marissa Tandon on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube @marissakumari   Coco releases her frustrations after Australian Open Loss: ​​https://x.com/tntsports/status/2016078126741151958?s=20 Coco discusses the incident: https://x.com/TheTennisLetter/status/2016097716435402855?s=20  Gamechangers Book Series: https://www.cosmopolitan.com/entertainment/books/g69595109/heated-rivalry-game-changers-rachel-reid-books-in-order/ Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC - Own your health for $365 a year. That’s a dollar a day. Learn more by visiting https://www.functionhealth.com/tcm/party - Get 15 percent off your first order at Wearfigs.com with code FIGSRX. - Let yourself run, lift, sculpt, push, and go. Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com - Find a host or co-host at https://www.airbnb.com/host/homes - Learn more about Intuit QuickBooks at https://quickbooks.intuit.com/!

Four months. That’s how long it took Erin Jackson to go from stepping onto the ice for the very first time to earning a spot on the U.S. Olympic speedskating team. What followed was one of the most unbelievable journeys in sports: Olympic gold in Beijing, decided by eight hundredths of a second, and history made as the first Black woman to win an individual Olympic gold medal. In this episode, Erin takes us inside the full arc, from roller derby alter egos and inline skating dominance to the terrifying, character-building grind of Special Forces, and the mental resilience it takes to start over in a brand new sport at 24. She opens up about the heartbreak of Olympic Trials, the selfless act by teammate Brittany Bowe that changed everything, the pressure of the biggest moments, and what it means to carry visibility into winter sports. With Milan Cortina beginning, Erin reflects on a milestone just announced: being named a U.S. flag bearer, an honor that underscores not just her excellence on the ice, but her impact far beyond it. She also shares how she’s navigating injuries, defending her title, and chasing another gold, all while staying grounded, analytical, and unapologetically herself. Equal parts mind-blowing, emotional, and inspiring, this is a reminder that it’s never too late to start and that sometimes the wildest paths lead straight to the podium.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Instagram — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ TikTok — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: Tools to help you watch the Olympics: Get to know the Winter Olympic Athletes: https://www.nbcolympics.com/athletes Hometown USA Winter Olympians - State: https://www.nbcnews.com/data-graphics/team-usa-athletes-winter-olympics-states-where-from-map-2026-milan-rcna256011 About Oli-Your AI buddy for the Olympics: https://www.nbcsports.com/pressbox/press-releases/oli-nbcuniversals-ai-powered-olympic-guide-returns-with-enhanced-features-to-provide-fans-with-up-to-date-info-about-nbcus-coverage-of-the-milan-cortina-2026-olympic-winter-games The Olympic Schedule: https://www.nbcolympics.com/schedule Explainer Videos: https://www.olympics.com/en/milano-cortina-2026/allianz-sport-explainers Your Olympic Angels Ross Stevens: https://www.usopc.org/news/2025/march/04/united-states-olympic-paralympic-committee-and-united-states-olympic-paralympic-foundation-announce-100-million-gift-to-support-post-games-financial-security-for-team-usa-athletes Follow Flavor Flav’s Olympic adventures:https://www.instagram.com/flavorflavofficial/ Alice Milliat Learn more about Alice:https://www.facinghistory.org/ideas-week/alice-milliat-pioneer-womens-sport Follow: Herstory_Feminism https://www.instagram.com/p/DT6MSIdCHWy/?igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ%3D%3D Wandering Womb theory:https://www.wired.com/2014/05/fantastically-wrong-wandering-womb/ Erin Jackson Follow Erin Jackson:@SpeedyJ Erin Jackson becomes the first black woman to win individual gold in the Winter Olympics: https://youtube.com/shorts/uCaKO3FeQXI?si=bZWDf4QuCLhnA_22   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC - Quickbooks: Your numbers, your data, your insights — everything is finally in one place. You can actually see what’s going on with your business and move forward with confidence at Intuit Quickbooks. Learn more about Intuit QuickBooks at https://quickbooks.intuit.com/. - Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com https://www.onepeloton.com/

March Madness is delivering, and so is the energy on this episode. Julie and Abby are joined by women’s basketball expert Jordan Robinson to break down a stacked Final Four, from Texas vs. UCLA to the highly anticipated rematch between UConn and South Carolina. They dig into what’s actually separating these teams right now, momentum, mindset, and yes…team chemistry (including a surprisingly deep dive into “touches” 👀). Then, the conversation shifts from the court to something bigger: what really makes a great team? From a powerful story out of Tennessee about culture and leadership to a fascinating sit-down with organizational psychologist Adam Grant, this episode explores how trust, connection, and accountability shape success, whether you’re chasing a championship or building something of your own. Because at the highest level, it’s not just about talent, it’s about the people, the relationships, and the culture you create together.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: The NBA Study on ‘touching’: https://psycnet.apa.org/doiLanding?doi=10.1037%2Fa0019382 Adam Grant’s website: https://adamgrant.net/ Follow and Hype up our Welcome to the March Madness Party Bracket Competitors: The RE-CAP show: https://re-website.com/pages/recapshow?srsltid=AfmBOoor3S1KP5mHb26PRTMpzLWKaEnY1X2Gsbs_ZobDqQgVOdnp63Vc and social: https://www.instagram.com/re__inc/ The Women’s Game: https://www.youtube.com/@WomensGameMiB and social: https://www.instagram.com/womensgamemib/ Good Game with Sarah Spain: https://www.iheart.com/podcast/1119-good-game-with-sarah-spai-185664375/  Time Wasting: https://justwomenssports.com/time-wasting/ and social: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVjV3A7j3Ll/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== Coach Jackie: https://www.instagram.com/jcubedhax/ and TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jcubedhax A Touch More: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-touch-more-with-sue-bird-megan-rapinoe/id1510142364 and Social: https://www.instagram.com/atouchmore/ March Madness Schedule: https://www.ncaa.com/news/basketball-women/article/2026-03-23/2026-march-madness-womens-ncaa-tournament-schedule-dates-times Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

This special Party Starter begins with a quick celebration: Billie Jean King fresh off Sundance, where a new documentary about her life premiered to phenomenal reviews. The moment sets the tone for an episode rooted in legacy, impact, and what comes next. From there, Julie Foudy, Abby Wambach, and Billie Jean turn their focus to National Girls & Women in Sports Day and why it still matters. Founded by Billie Jean alongside the Women’s Sports Foundation, the day is both a celebration and a reminder of unfinished work. Since 1974, the Foundation has invested more than $115 million in research, advocacy, and community programs to expand access and opportunity for girls and women in sports. Using data from the Women’s Sports Foundation, the trio breaks down where progress has been made, where inequality persists, and why visibility at the pro level doesn’t automatically translate to access on the ground. They spotlight organizations across the country showing up for girls right now, then go deeper with personal reflections on belonging, leadership, resilience, and the critical role adults play in keeping girls in the game. And because this is Welcome to the Party, it all builds to a familiar showdown: Julie and Abby face off once again on the Peloton Tread. Pressure is a privilege but will third time finally be the charm? Happy National Girls & Women in Sports Day. Let’s keep the girls playing.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Instagram — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ TikTok — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: -Give me the Ball reviewed at Sundance! https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/movies/movie-reviews/give-me-the-ball-review-billie-jean-king-espn-1236487989/ -Learn more about The Women’s Sports Foundation: www.WomensSportsFoundation.org -Find a local organization celebrating National Girls and Women in Sports Day: https://www.womenssportsfoundation.org/get-involved/ngwsd/ -Learn more about Flo Hyman: https://www.volleyhall.org/flo-hyman.html -I9 Sports Gains are for the Girls: https://www.i9sports.com/ Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC The Women's Sports Foundation goal is simple: to ensure every girl and woman has the chance to play, compete, and lead. Learn more www.womenssportsfoundation.org   Your numbers, your data, your insights — everything is finally in one place. Learn more about Intuit QuickBooks at quickbooks.com. Refresh your wardrobe with Quince. Quince.com/WELCOMETOTHEPARTY for free shipping on your order and 365-day returns.  Check out the limited-edition Team USA collection and get 15 % off your first order at Wearfigs.com with code FIGSRX.

Olympic champion and women’s hockey force Kendall Coyne Schofield joins the party in full flight, still one of the fastest players on the planet, a mom to two-year-old Drew, and a key architect behind the rise of the PWHL. Kendall takes us inside the real grind that used to define “pro” women’s hockey (think air mattresses, tiny paychecks, and constant “ifs”), and how a single phone call helped spark a league built to last for generations. She also relives her iconic NHL All-Star “fastest skater” moment, what it meant to carry an entire sport on her shoulders, and why the conversation it sparked mattered even more than the time on the clock. Plus: the Canada–USA rivalry, the mindset shift after silver in 2022, and why “pressure is a privilege” hits different when you’re chasing gold with your kid watching...this time, on the road to Milano Cortina.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: Watch Abby’s Oscar Nominated Film “Come See Me in the Good Light”: https://tv.apple.com/us/movie/come-see-me-in-the-good-light/umc.cmc.27uh51l7oh3ghql2gxb6xvb1s Kendall’s Book “As Fast as Her”: https://bit.ly/49ugklt Kendall in NHL All Star Competition: Kendall Coyne Schofield makes history in Fastest Skater How the PWHL was formed: https://www.cbssports.com/nhl/news/professional-womens-hockey-league-how-pwhl-was-formed-and-why-top-players-have-high-hopes-for-new-league/ Thank you to our sponsors: -Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at https://www.onepeloton.com/ -Get an annual membership to http://shipt.com/ and order groceries delivered to your door with zero fees for orders over $35+. Download the app today.  -Get 20% off your order at http://cozyearth.com/em-cgi/btag/ with code WTTP.  -Get your business data all in one place using Intuit Quickbooks. Visit https://quickbooks.intuit.com/ to learn more. Check out the limited-edition Team USA collection at FIGS and get 15% off your first order at WearFigs.com with code FIXRX.  Chapters: 00:00 — Begin 01:24 — “Come See Me in the Good Light” — Abby’s Oscar Nomination 08:32 — Kendall Coyne Schofield  13:49 — “It was never about playing in the league…it was about building it.” 14:08 — Sponsors + legitimacy: how the league gets real  16:54 — Post-Olympics doesn’t go silent anymore 18:20 — Motherhood + the “new beginning” mindset 43:22 — Party Poppers: Blind Ranking

Before the highlights, Julie and Abby open with a moment of humanity. They process what’s happening in Minnesota, honoring lives lost, and sharing tangible ways to help, from donation links to calling your senators. Then it’s back to the women’s sports party: USWNT puts on a show (plus Trinity Rodman’s record-setting new deal), NCAA hoops delivers a statement game, and the Australian Open serves fashion and frost. And for the main event: Winter Games are almost here. Creator and writer Marissa Kumari Tandon joins the Party Buzz to break down Milan-Cortina storylines, women’s participation nearing parity, the comeback drama in alpine skiing, Chloe Kim’s chase for history, the figure skating contenders to know, and why the Winter Games are the ultimate stage for grit, risk, and underdog funding fights.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Follow Marissa Kumari Tandon @marissakumari on all platforms   More information: Take action with your government officials: https://indivisible.org/get-involved/take-action/ How to Support Minnesota - Stand With Minnesota Minnesota Immigrant Rights Action Committee (MIRAC) - https://www.miracmn.com UNIDOS-MN - https://unidos-mn.org/@unidosm ACLU of MN - https://www.aclu-mn.org/@ACLUMN ISAIAH - https://www.isaiahmn.org/our-story MPLS Mutual Aid - @mplsmutualaid PowWow Grounds Coffee - @powwogroundscoffee Food Shelf - @joyceuptown Isuroon - @isuroonnonprofit Twin cities leather - @twincitiesleather Olympic Games Schedule: https://www.olympics.com/en/milano-cortina-2026/schedule/overview Heated Rivalry: Hudson Williams and Connor Story, stars of HBO's "Heated Rivalry," carried the Olympic torch in Italy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=uLHxNajL7tM Thank you to our sponsors: -Shop tons of deals, including member-exclusive savings, all season long during the Season of Savings at https://www.shipt.com/ -Get your business data all in one place using Intuit Quickbooks. Visit https://quickbooks.intuit.com/ to learn more. -Join the loyalty program for renters at joinbilt.com/welcometotheparty Find a host or co-host at https://www.airbnb.com/host/homes -Shop SKIMS Fits Everybody collection at SKIMS.com. After your place your order, be sure to let them know we sent you! Select "podcast" in the survey and Welcome to the Party!  -Join the loyalty program for renters at https://www.bilt.com/podcast-overview?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=audio&utm_campaign=podcast__test_awareness_prospecting_growth_welcometotheparty___ -Get an annual membership to http://shipt.com/ and order groceries delivered to your door with zero fees for orders over $35+. Download the app today.  -Shop SKIMS Fits Everybody collection at https://skims.com/. After your place your order, be sure to let them know we sent you! Select "podcast" in the survey and Welcome to the Party!

What do you do when the thing you love could literally kill you? This week, Julie and Abby welcome Katie McConnell, one of the top big wave surfers on the planet, an athlete who paddles (or gets towed) into towering walls of water where timing, calm, and judgment are the difference between getting out… or not. Katie explains what a “big wave” really is, the physics and chaos behind places like Nazaré, and why chasing swells is part science, part instinct, and part spiritual relationship with the sea. Then the conversation turns to a different kind of fight: Katie’s mission to change the system for women in big wave surfing, from uneven invites and costly last-minute travel windows to building a future where women aren’t “included” as an afterthought, but centered in the story. Extreme sport. Ocean obsession. Equality push. Puny humans, giant waves.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Instagram — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ TikTok — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: Follow Katie: https://www.instagram.com/keiti_mar/ Learn more about Katie: https://www.surfwithkatie.com/ Watch 100ft Wave Documentary Series: https://www.hbomax.com/shows/100-foot-wave/34e489ad-2eca-4078-adb6-6d2b521b407e Follow more big wave surfing, follow:@bigwavechallenge @thebigwavealliance @womensbigwavecollective Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com  https://www.onepeloton.com/ -Shop deals and member-exclusive savings at https://www.shipt.com/ -Get 20% off your first order at https://vuoriclothing.com/pages/pod_f -Get your business data all in one place using Intuit Quickbooks. Visit https://quickbooks.intuit.com/ to learn more. -Get 20% off your order at http://cozyearth.com/em-cgi/btag/ with code WTTP. 00:00 — Begin 00:38 — Welcome + Julie & Abby Talk Surf Experiences 12:24 — Katie McConnell Intro 14:06 — How Katie Got Into Surfing 17:00 — What Counts as a “Big Wave” + Paddle vs Tow 20:18 — Biggest Waves Katie’s Surfed 20:50 — Why Nazaré Creates Monsters 23:09 — What It Feels Like to Ride One 24:26 — Fear + Risk Management 27:20 — The Fight for Women’s Equality in Big Wave Surfing 32:16 — Making a Living + Sponsorship Reality 33:15 — How the Party People Can Help 36:52 — Closing Thanks + Future of Women’s Big Wave Surfing 39:05 — Post-Interview Debrief: “How Do They Live Like This?”

What happens when a DJ-turned-designer decides women’s sports deserves better than “pink it and shrink it” merch? Domo Wells, founder and creative director of Dead Dirt and the creative force behind the Washington Spirit’s visual identity, joins Julie Foudy and Abby Wambach to talk about betting on yourself, building a brand without permission, and why the NWSL (still basically a “teenager”) has a rare chance to create heritage from scratch. From tunnel fits and uniform hacks to designing across all 16 NWSL clubs, Domo breaks down how culture, city identity, and women’s buying power can completely reshape the business of sports fashion. Plus: a truly chaotic “rate our tunnel fits” moment you’ll want to see on YouTube.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: -USWNT Roster: https://www.ussoccer.com/teams/uswnt/roster -USWNT Television Schedule: https://www.ussoccer.com/schedule-tickets/uswnt -Domo Wells: https://www.deaddirt.com/ -Lindsey Vonn: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6948010/2026/01/19/lindsey-vonn-olympics-skiing-knee-replacement/   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Visit https://www.wayfair.com/ to get your go to items for game day.  -Find a host or co-host at https://www.airbnb.com/host/homes -Head to https://www.quince.com/Welcometotheparty for free shipping and 365-day returns. -Get your business data all in one place using Intuit Quickbooks. Visit https://quickbooks.intuit.com/ to learn more. -Get 40% off your first order today at https://www.hungryroot.com/?promo=WTTP&b=2971&utm_source=welcome-to-the-party%21&utm_medium=influencer&utm_campaign=veritone-podcast  Chapters: 00:00 — Begin 00:51 — Pregame banter: fashion, sweatpants, and TV life 02:29 — Styling without the price tag 06:03 — Kids, thrift culture, and rejecting materialism 07:28 — USWNT friendlies and soccer updates 13:52 — Lindsey Vonn comeback 17:09 — Abby’s 2007 World Cup story 22:24 — Domo Wells joins the show 26:05 — From music to design: finding the right path 33:18 — What women’s sports merch has been missing 43:00 — Designing for 16 cities and building culture 48:02 — The meaning behind Dead Dirt 50:37 — Tunnel fits, confidence, and personal style 54:30 — Angel City reveal and future plans 56:42 — Why artists matter in women’s sports 59:42 — Wrap-up and where to find us

Olympic bronze medalist, two-time Olympian, rugby star, and internet favorite Ilona Maher joins us for a funny, honest conversation about confidence, body image, and learning to fully own who you are. Ilona opens up about growing up socially awkward, finding rugby by accident, and why sports taught her to take up space. She shares how vulnerability and humor became the foundation of her massive online platform, why she believes awkwardness is a superpower, and how showing the real side of elite athletics helps people feel less alone. We also dive into the now-iconic “Naked Mom Theory,” body confidence, sex education, Dancing With the Stars, and the realities of building a career in women’s sports—on and off the field.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: -House of Maher; Ilona’s podcast with her sisters: @houseofmaher   https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCrlOeUHgXPlaF2bxCwBdJMg   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com  https://www.onepeloton.com/ -Shop tons of deals, including member-exclusive savings, all season long during the Season of Savings at https://www.shipt.com/ -Get your business data all in one place using Intuit Quickbooks. Visit https://quickbooks.intuit.com/ to learn more. -Get 20% off your order at http://cozyearth.com/em-cgi/btag/ with code WTTP.

Introducing Coffee with the Kinger, a new recurring series built around candid conversations, big ideas, and whatever’s on our hosts minds. In each episode one of the hosts brings a subject they can’t stop thinking about and the group digs in over coffee. For this very first episode Billie Jean King kicks things off with something that’s been heavy on her mind…New Year’s Resolutions. BJK shares with Julie and Abby why she’s rethinking the way we approach goals and what she’s excited about heading into the year; from the Olympics to new leagues and long-term investment. Pull up a chair, pour a cup, and settle in.    Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: Winter Olympics Viewing Schedule: https://www.nbcolympics.com/schedule WTGL New Women’s Golf League: https://wtglgolf.com/articles/2026/01/tmrw-sports-and-lpga-announce-wtgl   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Go to https://im8health.com/WTTP for a free welcome kit, five free travel sachets, and 10% off your order. -Shop tons of deals, including member-exclusive savings, all season long during the Season of Savings at https://www.shipt.com/ -Get your business data all in one place using Intuit Quickbooks. Visit https://quickbooks.intuit.com/ to learn more. -Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com  https://www.onepeloton.com/ -Visit https://www.wayfair.com/ to get your go to items for game day.  Find a host or co-host at https://www.airbnb.com/host/homes Chapters: 00:00 Begin 01:50 Discussion on Heated Rivalry 08:38 What are we most looking forward to in 2026 11:11 What inspired Abby to become an Olympian 14:01 WTGL Golf 19:28 Project B 33:18 Coffee with the Kinger - New Years Resolutions

Madisen Skinner has won everywhere she’s played, but winning isn’t the whole story. A national champion at University of Kentucky women’s volleyball and a two-time NCAA champion with University of Texas women’s volleyball, the LOVB Austin star opens up about pressure, mental health, and learning to build a life beyond volleyball while still chasing championships. From sisterhood with Avery Skinner to the future of women’s pro volleyball, this is a real conversation about success, balance, and staying human at the top.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: LOVB Schedule: https://www.lovb.com/2026/schedule Madisen Skinner ESPN Article detailing her mental health struggles: https://www.espn.com/college-sports/story/_/id/42737670/ncaa-volleyball-madisen-skinner-texas-longhorns-three-peat   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC Chapters 00:00 Start 05:34 Madisen Skinner joins the party 07:38 LOVB Austin’s turnaround  11:05 The Pressure of being Madisen Skinner 11:54 Abby shares her mental health story 15:32 How playing for UT helped Madisen’s mental health 18:34 Growing up with Dance and Music 20:09 Discovering Volleyball 21:16 Her relationship with her sister 23:50 What to expect this season 27:03 Joining forces with MLV 29:55 How difficult beach volleyball is 

Julie and Abby return to kick off the year with the biggest wins and headlines in women’s sports, from record-breaking winter performances and Olympic qualifiers to buzzy moments in college basketball. They celebrate athletes making history, dig into major storylines shaping the landscape, and share firsthand highlights from a packed UCLA/USC showdown. Then hoops insider Jordan Robinson joins the party to break down Unrivaled season two, the player-led league redefining the WNBA offseason, plus what’s next for women’s basketball at every level. New year, new energy, let’s get this party started.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: Unrivaled opening day results: https://www.unrivaled.basketball/ Pre-order Jordan’s Book Court Queens:https://www.amazon.com/Court-Queens-Celebrate-Players-Basketball/dp/B0FGX73CKW Follow Jordan: https://www.instagram.com/jordanligons/ And https://www.tiktok.com/@heyjordanrobinson   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com  -Athletic Greens has their best offer ever. For $126 in free gifts. Head to: https://drinkag1.com/partner/general-partnerships?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=partnerships&utm_campaign=welcometotheparty_d35ct__a10727__o27&utm_term=cac__a10727__o27&utm_content=__a10727__o27 -Get your business data all in one place using Intuit Quickbooks. Visit https://quickbooks.intuit.com/ to learn more. -Get 40% off your first order today at hungryroot.com/wttp. 

What does it really take to build a gold medal mindset and how do those lessons show up in everyday life? Julie and Abby welcome one of the most influential sports psychologists of all time, Dr. Colleen Hacker, whose work helped shape generations of champions, including multiple U.S. Olympic gold medal teams. In this wisdom-packed conversation, Dr. Hacker shares the psychology behind championship cultures, mental toughness, and sustained excellence. From confidence and communication to handling pressure and self doubt, she offers practical, relatable tools you can use far beyond sports. This episode is all about the gold medal mentality and the life lessons that come with it. Whether you are leading a team, chasing a goal, or navigating everyday challenges, this is a conversation that will stick with you.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC Chapters: 00:00 Begin Billie Jean King Surprise + Battle of the Sexes “Before/After” Abby’s Anxiety: “How Do You Win Without a Scoreboard?” Stop Juggling: The Skeeball Rule for Adult Life The “Suffering = Self-Esteem” Trap (And Resetting It) Don’t Kill the Butterflies—Teach Them to Fly in Formation Boys vs. Girls Under Pressure: What’s Real, What’s Culture Parenting Without Ego: Autonomy, Mastery, Connectedness “They Want It”… or They Want Your Approval? When Kids Truly Want It, You Can’t Keep Them Away

March Madness is delivering, and so is this episode. From bracket chaos and UCLA surviving Duke to a viral coaching moment that had the entire internet debating what “good coaching” actually looks like… we’re breaking it all down. Julie, Abby, and Kinger react to the biggest headlines across women’s sports including record-breaking crowds, Angel City staying undefeated, and a historic run in tennis, before sitting down with Maryland head coach Brenda Frese and star guard Oluchi Okananwa to unpack the moment everyone’s been talking about. What really happened on that sideline? What did she actually say? And why did it resonate with so many people? Plus, the Party Starter, bracket updates, and a chaotic new game of “Read My Lips” you do not want to miss.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Instagram — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ TikTok — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: A close up look at the Dodger’s World Series ring: https://x.com/Dodgers/status/2037709653174583405 Watch this amazing story on Abby’s nephew, Brady Wambach: https://www.tiktok.com/@usa_lacrosse/video/7607508920969579789?_r=1&_t=ZP-956fgIK5rYt Learn more about ‘The Sunshine Double’: https://www.espn.com/tennis/story/_/id/48346400/what-sunshine-double-explaining-jannik-sinner-aryna-sabalenka-rare-feat The WTA Finals ending their tour stop in Saudi Arabia: https://tennisuptodate.com/wta/wta-finals-set-to-leave-saudi-arabia-after-2026-as-the-hunt-commences-for-new-location Denver smashes NWSL regular season attendance record: https://www.nwslsoccer.com/news/no-place-like-home-denver-summit-inaugural-home-opener-at-mile-high-smashes-nwsl-attendance-record The Viral Moment between Maryland Coach Brenda Frese and her player, Oluchi Okananwa: https://www.facebook.com/MarylandWBB/videos/everyone-deserves-to-feel-like-someone-believes-in-you-like-brenda-frese-believe/1256703726646052/ Follow and Hype up our Welcome to the March Madness Party Bracket Competitors: The RE-CAP show The Women’s Game social: https://www.instagram.com/womensgamemib/ Good Game with Sarah Spain Time Wasting social: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DVjV3A7j3Ll/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=NTc4MTIwNjQ2YQ== Coach Jackie: https://www.instagram.com/jcubedhax/ https://www.tiktok.com/@jcubedhax A Touch More Social: https://www.instagram.com/atouchmore/ March Madness Schedule: https://www.ncaa.com/news/basketball-women/article/2026-03-23/2026-march-madness-womens-ncaa-tournament-schedule-dates-times Thank you to our sponsor: -This episode is brought to you by Cologuard. For more information head to Cologuard.com

It’s our final episode of 2025, and we’re closing the year the only way we know how — big. Julie, Abby, and Billie step onto the Party Podium for a snake draft of the moments that defined women’s sports in 2025, with the year delivering no shortage of contenders — from Coco Gauff’s French Open triumph and UConn reclaiming the NCAA title to England’s historic runs in soccer and rugby and a WNBA season flipped on its head behind A’ja Wilson and the Aces. These aren’t just championships or box scores — they’re the moments that shifted the conversation, changed the game, and stuck with us long after the final whistle. Three rounds. Nine picks. Plenty of debate. And because no draft is ever complete, we turn it over to you: what did we miss, and whose draft deserves the top spot? Draft day. The moments of 2025. Let’s get this party started. Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Keep the Party Going: -Birch Bayh - Making a Difference - By Robert Blaemire: https://www.amazon.com/Birch-Bayh-Difference-Robert-Blaemire/dp/0253039177 -Good Game with Sarah Spain:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-game-with-sarah-spain/id1752100672 -The Women’s Game - Sam Mewis: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-womens-game/id1733926389-Coach Jackie Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DSvACYzkUPM/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA== -The Recap Show:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/the-re-cap-show-with-tobin-heath-and-christen-press/id1698132164 -Sports Are Fun:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sports-are-fun/id1522055041 -A touch More:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/a-touch-more-with-sue-bird-megan-rapinoe/id1510142364 '-Birds Eye View:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/birds-eye-view-with-sue-bird/id1812530040 -Post Moves:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/post-moves-with-candace-parker-aliyah-boston/id1825485084 -Bawsi: https://www.bawsi.org -Top Women’s Sports Moments of 2025:https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/2025/12/29/ranking-top-10-womens-sports-moments-of-2025/87897430007/ Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Shop deals and member-exclusive savings all season long at https://www.shipt.com/ Chapters: 00:00 Billie Jean King’s Safari and Mercedes Benz $500 Million WTA Partnership 07:30 Our hosts shine the party spotlight on the organizations, authors, and influencers that matter to them. 20:50 Our top three women’s sports moments of 2025

Consider this our holiday gift to you. For this special Christmas episode, Julie Foudy and Abby Wambach pull back the curtain and serve up the funniest bloopers of the year. From technical malfunctions and verbal slip ups to unexpected background chaos and cameras falling at exactly the wrong moment, nothing is off limits. As they relive the moments that did not go according to plan, the laughs keep coming, including one brand new live blooper from Julie that absolutely steals the show. It is unfiltered, unscripted, and guaranteed to make you laugh out loud. Happy Holidays and welcome to the messiest party of the year.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Find a host or co-host at https://www.airbnb.com/host/homes

We shine our party spotlight on one of the most dominant dynasties in sports you’ve probably never heard of: the U.S. Women’s Deaf National Soccer Team. Julie and Abby are joined by legends Amy Griffin and Joy Fawcett, alongside current star Erin Cembrale, to break down the team’s unbelievable record—44 wins, zero losses, five Deaflympics gold medals, multiple world titles, and a culture built brick by brick through grit, fundraising, and community. They also chat the massive week in women’s sports, including Texas A&M’s historic NCAA Women’s Volleyball Championship run and record-breaking viewership, WNBA Players Association strike authorization amid ongoing CBA negotiations, and the soaring franchise valuations revealed in Forbes’ most valuable women’s sports teams rankings.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: Come See Me in the Good Light: https://tv.apple.com/us/movie/come-see-me-in-the-good-light/umc.cmc.27uh51l7oh3ghql2gxb6xvb1s Forbes releases the Most Valuable Women’s Sports Teams rankings: https://www.forbes.com/sites/brettknight/2025/12/17/the-worlds-most-valuable-womens-sports-teams-2025/ Our Chat with Nneka Ogwumike, WNBAPA on the WNBA CBA negotiations: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/welcome-to-the-party/id1835504451?i=1000741514338 How to Support the Women’s Deaflympics Team: https://usdeafsoccer.com/get-involved/ https://www.facebook.com/USADeafSoccerWnt/ https://www.instagram.com/usdeaf_wnt/?hl=en Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Get 20% off your first order at https://vuoriclothing.com/pages/pod_f -Get your business data all in one place using Intuit Quickbooks. Visit https://quickbooks.intuit.com/ to learn more. -Shop tons of deals, including member-exclusive savings, all season long during the Season of Savings at https://www.shipt.com/

It’s a defining moment for the NWSL—and one that raises some big, important questions about the future of the league and its players. Abby and Julie are joined by NWSL Players Association executive director Meghann Burke to get straight into the on-going breaking news around the salary cap, the NWSLPA grievance, and the board-approved High Impact Player rule that players are now reviewing. With Trinity Rodman’s contract situation at the center of it all, what does this moment really mean for free agency, player trust, and how the league navigates growth in an increasingly competitive global soccer market.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going:   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Visit https://www.wayfair.com/ to get your go to items for game day.  -Athletic Greens best offer ever. For $126 in free gifts. Head to: https://drinkag1.com/partner/general-partnerships?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=partnerships&utm_campaign=welcometotheparty_d35ct__a10727__o27&utm_term=cac__a10727__o27&utm_content=__a10727__o27 -Ready to feel your best and write your second act script? Visit https://www.joinmidi.com/ today to book your personalized, insurance-covered virtual visit for perimenopause and menopause support.  -Find the perfect for you - visit https://www.thirdlove.com/