Explore every episode of the podcast At Even Strength: A Women's Hockey Podcast
| Title | Pub. Date | Duration | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Breaking Down the BIGGEST PWHL Trade and Tracking Olympians From Eight Countries | 25 Jan 2026 | 00:50:35 | |
In this episode of "At Even Strength," hosts Erica L. Ayala and Rachel Donner dive into the biggest trade in PWHL history, breaking down the Ottawa Charge and Vancouver Goldeneyes six-player swap and its massive impact on the PWHL standings. They bring you exclusive post-trade insights, featuring reactions from Brooke McQuigge, Carla Macleod, Sarah Nurse, and Brian Idalski, and how these moves have shaped the playoff race ahead of the Olympic break. Get ready for the road to Milano Cortina as the hosts spotlight the 61 PWHL players heading to the 2026 Winter Olympics, breaking down international representation from Canada, the USA, Finland, Czechia, Germany, and more. The episode highlights the stories of living legends like Marie-Philip Poulin and Hilary Knight, rising stars such as Laila Edwards, and the growing influence of European talent in the world’s top women’s pro hockey league. Plus, Erica and Rachel debate the hot topics: what makes a must-win game with seven PWHL matchups before the Olympic break, how midseason trades can change a team’s fortunes, and why women’s hockey deserves the same analysis and hype as the men’s side. Subscribe for all-access coverage—game analysis, player perspectives, Olympic previews, and the stories you won’t hear anywhere else. "At Even Strength" is your home for everything PWHL, women’s ice hockey, and the global game. #PWHL #WomensHockey #MilanoCortina2026 #OlympicHockey #MariePhilipPoulin #HilaryKnight #SarahNurse #WomenInSports #HockeyPodcast
Follow us on Bluesky social! Rachel Donner At Even Strength on TikTok Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… Black Rosie Media: Olympics, Women’s Hockey, Women’s Basketball, and other stories that matter! 00:00 Vancouver's Bold Trade Strategy #pwhl #womenshockey #hockey | |||
| From Viral Videos to Vital Voices: Blake Bolden’s Impact On and Off the Ice | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:59:02 | |
Welcome back to At Even Strength! In this episode, host Erica Ayala sits down with trailblazer Blake Bolden for a deep dive into Olympic hockey—covering both the men’s and women’s tournaments, roster breakdowns, and the evolving storylines ahead of Milano Cortina. They celebrate bold milestones in the sport, including Laila Edwards becoming the first Black woman to represent USA Hockey at the Olympics, and explore how representation is shifting on and off the ice. Beyond the international stage, Blake Bolden shares insights from her own journey: from her powerful slap shot and time in the pro game to her work as a broadcaster and mentor. The conversation touches on growing up in Cleveland, leadership in women's hockey, and the importance of building community. Wild Olympic predictions, broadcast stories, and even a few content ideas for the PWHL—all on tap in this empowering, candid episode. If you love hockey, care about breaking barriers, or just want to hear stories that inspire, you won’t want to miss this interview. Let’s get to it! 00:00 Blake Bolden Interview Highlights Follow us on Bluesky social! #podcast #womenshockey #pwhl We are committed to showing up as advocates for the visibility of Black women and creators of color through original content, events, partnerships, and more. Our goal is to create a space online where Black women and other BIPOC creators are celebrated, appreciated, and equitably compensated for their work. Not only is Black Rosie Media a community for Black women and melanated creators, but it's also a standalone media conglomerate giving these creators a platform for their work. We are a space for news, game coverage, and creative sports content. Subscribe to get 💪🏾 Black Rosie Media 💪🏾 updates in your inbox! JOIN OUR SLACK COMMUNITY: 💪🏾 Black Rosie Media 💪🏾 -------------------------------SOCIAL-------------------------------- -----------------------My GEAR - Affiliate Links---------------- | |||
| Team Canada Surprises, Upcoming Games, and Blake Bolden’s Reflections on Hockey and Legacy | 12 Jan 2026 | 00:43:18 | |
Welcome to another episode of "At Even Strength," your go-to source for everything women's hockey, powered by Black Rosie Media! This week, hosts Erica Ayala and Rachel Donner dive into the just-released Hockey Canada Olympic roster—unpacking the big news, the surprises, and why every player chosen is from the PWHL. From the missing Chloe Primarano to first-time Olympians to questions about team strategy and international experience, no detail goes unnoticed. Plus, you’ll get an exclusive teaser of Erica Ayala's in-depth interview with trailblazer Blake Bolden. Hear how Laila Edwards' groundbreaking Olympic selection creates a full-circle moment for Bolden, her reflections on breaking barriers, and her takes on the present and future of the women's game. Stick around for a spotlight on key matchups to watch in the coming week—whether it’s the impact of expansion cities, the Takeover Tour stops, or which teams are finding their stride before the Olympics. Get ready for smart insight, passionate debate, and all the stories that make women’s hockey such an exciting sport to follow. 00:00 Team Canada Lacks College Players Follow us on Bluesky social! Rachel Donner #pwhl #womenshockey #hockey | |||
| Contenders or Pretenders? A PWHL Quarter-Season Check | 05 Jan 2026 | 01:07:09 | |
One Quarter Down: The PWHL Stock Report We’re 25% into the PWHL season, which makes it the perfect time for a check-in — without the overreactions. In this episode, we evaluate all eight PWHL teams and assess where things actually stand. Who looks like a real contender? Who has more questions than answers? And which storylines are being overstated (for better or worse)? Topics include:
🎧 Follow the show for weekly PWHL breakdowns, women’s hockey conversations, and Olympic coverage as we head toward Milano Cortina 2026. | |||
| MPP Still Clutch For Montreal, Hockey Canada Needs a Plan | 21 Dec 2025 | 00:47:31 | |
NOTE: We recorded before Minnesota defeated Boston Friday evening. Rachel Donner and Erica L. Ayala are back to give you a big picture view of the PWHL and International women's hockey ahead of the 2026 Winter Olympics. PLUS, Rachel catches Erica up on Heated Rivalry and the connection to the first Takeover Tour stop in Halifax. Chapters: Follow us on Bluesky social! Rachel Donner #pwhl #womenshockey #hockey We are committed to showing up as advocates for the visibility of Black women and creators of color through original content, events, partnerships, and more. Our goal is to create a space online where Black women and other BIPOC creators are celebrated, appreciated, and equitably compensated for their work. Not only is Black Rosie Media a community for Black women and melanated creators, but it's also a standalone media conglomerate giving these creators a platform for their work. We are a space for news, game coverage, and creative sports content. Subscribe to get 💪🏾 Black Rosie Media 💪🏾 updates in your inbox! JOIN OUR SLACK COMMUNITY: 💪🏾 Black Rosie Media 💪🏾 -------------------------------SOCIAL-------------------------------- -----------------------My GEAR - Affiliate Links---------------- | |||
| Youth Movement in Women’s Hockey: USA Surges, Canada Searches for Answers | 13 Dec 2025 | 01:26:58 | |
USA Women's Hockey humiliates Hockey Canada with a 10-4 blowout, sparking questions about Canada's failing youth movement and defensive woes. Can Canada recover before the Olympic spotlight hits? Erica L. Ayala and Angelica Rodriguez spotlight standout NCAA talent like Abby Murphy and Layla Edwards, dissect Team USA’s fresh roster mix, and debate if Canada’s reliance on veterans is costing them their edge. Key topics include Gwyneth Phillips’ rise in net, the impact of shifting NCAA-to-PWHL pipelines, and Hockey Canada’s struggle to adapt amidst rapid league changes. Heated conversations tackle goaltending battles, evolving defensive strategies, and controversial off-ice issues shaping locker room culture. The analysis wraps with anticipated PWHL matchups, Ottawa’s coaching hot seat, and Vancouver’s efforts to escape the league basement. Will Team Canada respond, or is this the end of an era? 00:00 Hockey Stories, Rivalries & Controversy Follow us on Bluesky social! Angelica Rodriguez #podcast #PWHL #RivalrySeries We are committed to showing up as advocates for the visibility of Black women and creators of color through original content, events, partnerships, and more. Our goal is to create a space online where Black women and other BIPOC creators are celebrated, appreciated, and equitably compensated for their work. Not only is Black Rosie Media a community for Black women and melanated creators, but it's also a standalone media conglomerate giving these creators a platform for their work. We are a space for news, game coverage, and creative sports content. Subscribe to get 💪🏾 Black Rosie Media 💪🏾 updates in your inbox! JOIN OUR SLACK COMMUNITY: 💪🏾 Black Rosie Media 💪🏾 -------------------------------SOCIAL-------------------------------- -----------------------My GEAR - Affiliate Links---------------- | |||
| PWHL Vibe Check: Hot & Not - Boston looks legit, Vancouver is struggling | 06 Dec 2025 | 00:53:23 | |
Same hosts, new podcast! Welcome to At Even Strength, your all-access pass to women’s hockey. From the ice of the PWHL and NCAA to international tournaments and grassroots development, we cover every level of the game with insight, analysis, and conversation that matters. Each week, we break down the biggest headlines, highlight standout players, and explore the stories shaping the sport—on and off the ice. Whether you’re a longtime fan, a player, or just discovering the women’s game, At Even Strength brings you the smart, honest, and passionate coverage women’s hockey deserves. On the first episode, Erica & Rachel discuss what's hot and what's not in the Professional Women's Hockey League, preview the second installment of the Rivalry Series, and more! Chapters: Follow us on Bluesky social! Rachel Donner #pwhl #womenshockey #hockey #podcast | |||
| The Garden Effect: Women's Hockey Hits Madison Square and TD Garden | 07 Mar 2026 | 00:45:22 | |
Get ready for another action-packed episode of At Even Strength, your all-access pass to the world of women's hockey! Hosts Erica L. Ayala and Rachel Donner dive into breaking PWHL attendance records, iconic sellouts at Madison Square Garden and TD Garden, and vibrant fan communities—from Seattle’s Torrent to New York’s Sirens. They tackle hot topics like marketing, Olympic-to-pro transitions, injury updates on star players like Hilary Knight, playoff race shakeups, and spotlight the Patty Kazmaier Award’s top NCAA contenders. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a curious newcomer, or just love competitive hockey, this episode covers the latest headlines, standout players, league narratives, and the culture shaping the women’s game. Subscribe for smart, honest, and passionate coverage—and join the conversation that’s changing women’s hockey! 00:00 Seattle Torrent, Gold Plan Discussion Follow us on Bluesky social! Rachel Donner #podcast #womenshockey #pwhl | |||
| Reclaiming Our Time: Placing women's hockey in its RIGHTFUL place in the post-Olympics narrative | 28 Feb 2026 | 00:44:13 | |
USA Women’s Hockey shifts the spotlight with Olympic gold, but can the PWHL harness this surge of new fans? Erica L. Ayala & Rachel Donner break down the post-Olympic shakeup, from Knight’s leadership and viral moments to Megan Keller and Alina Müller’s clutch performances. Heated discussion surrounds the fallout from the men’s hockey controversy, new physical play standards, and how star absences like Marie-Philip Poulin and Erin Ambrose challenge Montreal Victoire.
With teams like Seattle Torrent, Minnesota Frost, and Boston Fleet in the hunt and a fresh wave of fans, will women’s hockey build lasting momentum or face familiar obstacles? Unfiltered, timely takes you won’t want to miss. | |||
| PWHL Hits National TV: Breaking Down the ION Takeover & NCAA Patty Kaz Finalists | 14 Mar 2026 | 00:48:32 | |
Get ready for a jam-packed episode of At Even Strength! Hosts Erica L. Ayala and Rachel Donner break down the latest headlines in women’s hockey, including the monumental first-ever nationally televised PWHL game in the U.S. on ION. They dig into what national TV exposure means for the league, how innovative sponsors like Ally Bank are driving real change, and what fans can expect from broadcast upgrades. The episode covers must-know updates on PWHL injuries—including the ripple effect of Olympic absences—plus roster moves that could impact playoff races. You'll also get expert analysis on the NCAA Frozen Four, a heated debate over the Patty Kazmaier Award finalists, and which players to watch as the tournament heats up. Whether you're a die-hard PWHL fan or new to women’s hockey, this episode spotlights game-changing moments, growing crowds, and cross-league support (shout-out to NWSL’s Gotham FC and the New York Liberty!). Stick around for their can't-miss “Game of the Week” picks and discover which teams are positioned to make a late-season run. Subscribe for your all-access pass to the biggest stories and behind-the-scenes insights in women’s hockey! 00:00 Women's Hockey Gains Major Momentum Follow us on Bluesky social! Rachel Donner | |||
| PWHL Final: A Heady Play by Abby Roque Give Montreal a 1-0 Lead | 16 May 2026 | 00:33:39 | |
Montreal strikes first, or last as it were, to take Game 1 of the 2026 Walter Cup Final. Nicole Gosling get an equalizer late in the third to force overtime and Laura Stacey, who returned from an injury scare, tips a puck netfront into Roque’s … well, into her face. Rachel Donner and Erica L. Ayala recap Game 1 discuss the news that Manon Rhéaume will be the general manager of PWHL Detroit. Dominique DiDia was named as PWHL Las Vegas’ first GM after we recorded. Follow us on Bluesky social! Rachel Donner At Even Strength on TikTok Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… Black Rosie Media: Olympics, Women’s Hockey, Women’s Basketball, and other stories that matter!
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| PWHL Expansion Announcements in the middle of the POSTSEASON?! | 14 May 2026 | 00:48:50 | |
Montreal takes down the two-time champions Minnesota Frost to reach its first Walter Cup Final. Rachel Donner & Erica L. Ayala discuss the 2026 PWHL Championship Series ahead of Game 1. BUT FIRST, is the PWHL overshadowing its own product with too many expansion announcements?! Follow us on Bluesky social! Rachel Donner At Even Strength on TikTok Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… Black Rosie Media: Olympics, Women’s Hockey, Women’s Basketball, and other stories that matter!
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| PWHL Playoffs: Minnesota FORCES Game 5, Ottawa takes Charge | 10 May 2026 | 00:34:27 | |
The Minnesota Frost defeated Montreal 3-1 Friday to force Game 5! Rachel Donner & Erica L. Ayala break down the series and what to expect in the winner-take-all event at Place Bell. The Ottawa Charge takes a 2-1 series lead over the Boston Fleet off a heady play off the boards. Can Ottawa fans give their team an extra jolt on home ice? We cover this and more on today’s episode of At Even Strength! Follow us on Bluesky social! Rachel Donner At Even Strength on TikTok Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… Black Rosie Media: Olympics, Women’s Hockey, Women’s Basketball, and other stories that matter!
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| PWHL Semifinals TIED! Plus, PWHL Detroit is OFFICIAL. | 07 May 2026 | 00:54:22 | |
The PWHL Playoffs are heating up! Both Montreal and Ottawa bounced back to win Game 2 of their respective series. We’ve had FIVE overtimes between the Victoire and Frost, meanwhile Gwyneth Philips has posted TWO 30 or more save performances. Rachel Donner and Erica L. Ayala discuss the playoffs ahead of the Game 3’s this week. PLUS, PWHL Detroit is coming in the 2026-27 season! Our hosts break down what we know about the ninth PWHL team and do their best to makes sense of the expansion non-draft and free agency. Follow us on Bluesky social! Rachel Donner At Even Strength on TikTok Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… Black Rosie Media: Olympics, Women’s Hockey, Women’s Basketball, and other stories that matter!
▶︎ Exclusive Interviews: • Black Rosie Media I Interviews 🎧 LISTEN 📱FOLLOW BLACK ROSIE MEDIA 📖 READ 💵Black Women in Sports ABOUT THE SHOW | |||
| Boston Takes a 1-0 SERIES LEAD, Montreal Faces Minnesota: PWHL Playoff Analysis and X Factors | 02 May 2026 | 00:35:05 | |
The PWHL playoffs are here and the seedings are set! In this episode of At Even Strength, Rachel Donner breaks down Montreal’s choice to face Minnesota, Boston’s gritty Game 1 win over Ottawa, and all the intensity, physical play, and officiating drama from the opening round. You’ll get smart analysis of the goaltending clash between Aerin Frankel and Gwyneth Philips, key performances from Jessie Eldridge, Alina Müller, and Jamie Lee Rattray, and deep dives into the impact of special teams and penalties. Plus, Carla Macleod returns behind the Ottawa bench and reflects on her journey, while we debate Montreal’s first-round curse and Minnesota’s shot at a Walter Cup three-peat. We also discuss the “Caroline Harvey Sweepstakes,” top draft prospects, and what’s at stake for Seattle and Vancouver’s futures. Whether you’re here for PWHL playoff predictions, player X-factors, or the latest stories shaping women’s hockey, this episode delivers the bold, insightful coverage you expect. Drop your picks for Walter Cup finalists in the comments! 00:00 Ottawa vs. Boston game recap Follow us on Bluesky social! Rachel Donner At Even Strength on TikTok Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… Black Rosie Media: Olympics, Women’s Hockey, Women’s Basketball, and other stories that matter!
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| Toronto vs Ottawa for the FINAL Playoff Spot: PWHL Final Day Showdown | 25 Apr 2026 | 00:45:21 | |
At Even Strength Ep. 4.25 | PWHL Playoff Race, Standings Drama, and Game of the Week Breakdown The playoff race comes down to the final day, and Erica L. Ayala and Rachel Donner are breaking down all the action! Who will clinch the crucial fourth PWHL playoff spot—Ottawa Charge or Toronto Scepters? Is Montreal Victoire holding on to first place, and what does that mean for playoff matchups? We analyze game-changing performances from players like Reagan Kirk, dig deep into coaching decisions, and highlight the suspenseful gold plan lottery. Get insights on Boston Fleet, Minnesota Frost, New York Sirens, Seattle Torrent, and Vancouver Golden Eyes as the regular season wraps up. Don’t miss our preview of the definitive Ottawa vs. Toronto showdown, plus expert analysis on league growth, officiating, and the intense PWHL 3-2-1-0 points race. 00:00 Playoff standings discussion 03:23 Analyzing New York Sirens season 07:50 Troy Ryan's important season 12:14 Discussing Toronto's hockey players 14:53 Boston vs. Ottawa game recap 18:25 Promoting newsletters and subscriptions 22:46 Deciding playoff home advantage 24:03 Season finale playoff excitement 29:55 Reflecting on a tough game 31:48 Discussing top defensive player picks 36:25 Coaching changes for Ottawa game 39:13 Ottawa's season performance highlights 41:23 Comparing Ottawa and Toronto stats 44:24 Wrapping up the podcast episode Subscribe for more passionate, insider women’s hockey coverage! Follow us on Bluesky social! Rachel Donner At Even Strength on TikTok Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… Black Rosie Media: Olympics, Women’s Hockey, Women’s Basketball, and other stories that matter!
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| PWHL shatters attendance records at MSG and playoff race intensifies | 11 Apr 2026 | 00:36:57 | |
At Even Strength breaks down the PWHL’s electric sold-out game at Madison Square Garden, playoff chaos, and the playoff picture coming into focus. Speaker B shares insider moments from the arena, including epic player intros and shootout drama. Hear all about future stars like Caroline Harvey, trends in pro sports expansion, and Pride Night celebrations—plus insights on Ottawa, Seattle, Minnesota Frost, and Toronto Scepters. Injury updates, draft predictions, and everything you need to follow the race to the PWHL playoffs. 00:00 PWHL showcase game highlights Subscribe for the ultimate women's hockey coverage, analysis, and stories on and off the ice! Follow us on Bluesky social! Rachel Donner #podcast #pwhl #womenshockey #hockey 🎥 WATCH ▶︎ Exclusive Interviews: • Black Rosie Media I Interviews 🎧 LISTEN 📱FOLLOW BLACK ROSIE MEDIA 📖 READ 💵Black Women in Sports ABOUT THE SHOW | |||
| PWHL’s Big Weekend, Frozen Four Thrillers, and a U.S. Broadcast Milestone for Women’s Hockey | 28 Mar 2026 | 00:39:41 | |
Get your all-access pass to the world of women’s hockey on this episode of At Even Strength! Hosts Erica L. Ayala & Rachel Donner break down a pivotal PWHL weekend, including major injury updates for Montreal and Seattle, the heated playoff race, and the impact of the league’s first-ever US national broadcast. We dive into the thrilling NCAA Frozen Four championship clash between Wisconsin and Ohio State, spotlighting Patty Kazmaier winner Caroline “KK” Harvey and epic moments on and off the ice. Plus, we discuss the rise of future pro stars and what draft fans should watch for. Stay tuned for insights on PWHL playoff standings, analysis of the game of the week picks, and why Detroit’s Takeover Tour could shape the league’s next expansion. Don’t miss our reaction to being featured in NBC News for women’s hockey coverage! Keywords: women’s hockey, PWHL, NCAA Frozen Four, national broadcast, hockey podcast, Caroline Harvey, Wisconsin Badgers, Ohio State Buckeyes, women’s sports, hockey news, playoff race, injury update, draft prospects, Detroit expansion, NBC News, At Even Strength podcast Like, subscribe, and join the conversation with At Even Strength for all things women’s hockey! Check out the NBC News article: https://bit.ly/413Bu67 #pwhl #womenshockey #hockeyolympics
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| PWHL Trades, Officiating Drama, & NCAA Frozen Four Predictions | 20 Mar 2026 | 00:45:56 | |
Welcome to another jam-packed episode of At Even Strength! Join Erica L. Ayala and Rachel Donner as they break down all the latest in women’s hockey, from PWHL trades and the Seattle Torrent’s historic move to the pressing conversations around officiating and player safety. Dive into the future of PWHL broadcasts, NCAA Frozen Four predictions, and what the newest ION partnership means for the sport’s visibility. This episode highlights: Hit subscribe for expert insight, passionate analysis, and the women’s hockey coverage you crave. Share your takes and join the conversation in the comments! 00:00 Seatte Torrent x Boston Fleet make a TRADE Follow us on Bluesky social! Rachel Donner At Even Strength on TikTok Follow & Subscribe on all Podcast platforms… Black Rosie Media: Olympics, Women’s Hockey, Women’s Basketball, and other stories that matter! 🎧 https://linktr.ee/BlackRosieMedia #pwhl #womenshockey #hockey
We are committed to showing up as advocates for the visibility of Black women and creators of color through original content, events, partnerships, and more. Our goal is to create a space online where Black women and other BIPOC creators are celebrated, appreciated, and equitably compensated for their work. Not only is Black Rosie Media a community for Black women and melanated creators, but it's also a standalone media conglomerate giving these creators a platform for their work. We are a space for news, game coverage, and creative sports content. Subscribe to get 💪🏾 Black Rosie Media 💪🏾 updates in your inbox! JOIN OUR SLACK COMMUNITY: 💪🏾 Black Rosie Media 💪🏾 -------------------------------SOCIAL-------------------------------- -----------------------My GEAR - Affiliate Links---------------- | |||