The BIG LIFE

Kicking Off Season Three: Soccer Preseasons, Olympic Dramas, and Pro Soccer Adventures

Welcome back to Big Life, listeners! We're as excited for the upcoming soccer season as you are. Season three kicks off with a fun game of "Two Truths and a Lie" and some exclusive offers from our sponsor, Ida Sports. Make sure to grab your new cleats with our special discount!

In this episode, Jordan and Sam catch up on their summer adventures and dive deep into the current state of college athletics. Jordan shares her rollercoaster experience rehabbing a PCL injury and discusses the emotional and physical challenges of returning for her final season at Michigan State. They also tackle the complexities of new NCAA rules and how they'll affect future seasons.

The conversation shifts to the Olympics, where Sam provides insights into the drama surrounding the Canadian women's soccer team and the performance of Team USA. With exclusive updates from her pro soccer journey in Sweden, Sam reveals her recent travels, fitness regimen, and exciting news about her contract extension.

Join us for an episode packed with updates, insights, and a sneak peek into what’s coming next. Whether you're a college athlete, a pro soccer fan, or just love the game, there's something for everyone in this season opener!

Checkout IDA here and get 15% off https://www.idasports.com/pages/girlssoccernetwork

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Wrapping Up Season 2 with Andrea Brimmer: The Evolution of Women's Sports and Ally's 50/50 Pledge

Hey socceristas and welcome back to The BIG LIFE Podcast! It's the last episode of Season 2 and we feel like we're ending it with a real bang with a very special guest! This season has been a whirlwind for Sam and Jordyn as they adjust to being on different continents while sharing their lives and experiences. They will be back in late July with more exciting content, covering women's college soccer inside and out with a focus, of course, on the Big Ten.

For our finale episode, we're thrilled to bring you an incredible interview with Andrea Brimmer, Chief Marketing and PR Officer at Ally Financial, who is a fellow Spartan, like our Jordyn! This is such a great episode with a super smart and passionate leader in the women's soccer space! Andrea shares her inspiring journey from Michigan State's first women's varsity soccer team to leading the charge in the growth of women's sports. Andrea discusses Ally's 50-50 media equity pledge and the significant strides they've made to support women's sports.

Andrea's story is also motivational in framing the importance of media coverage and investment in women's sports. She offers invaluable advice for athletes transitioning into professional careers. This powerful conversation wraps up Season 2 on a high note!

As always, follow Girl Soccer Network on Instagram, stay updated with Sam and Jordyn's journeys on social media, and reach out to us with any questions. We'll see you in late July to kick off the women's college soccer season! Have a great summer!

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Subscribe to Girls Soccer Network's GSN Newsletter to stay posted about upcoming episodes. 
Find Jordyn and Sam on their Insta's @sam.cary @jordyn_wickes

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Celebrating Wins and Navigating the Journey that is Women's Soccer; Deep Dive with Chicago Red Star's Assistant Coach Ella Masar

Hey Everyone, or Hej as they say in Sweden. Summer is in session! Jordyn is sun burnt back in the gym already and Sam scored her first goal as a professional! School may be out but soccer never sleeps! The highlight, of Episode 8 is an incredible interview with Ella Masar, assistant coach of the Chicago Red Stars. Ella shares her incredible journey from being a low-profile recruit in Urbana, Illinois to an acclaimed professional soccer player. She discusses the ups and downs of her career, from struggling in college to triumphs in the WPS and NWSL, as well as her experiences playing in Europe. The conversation covers extensive ground on the challenges and rewards of an international soccer career, the impact of women's football in different countries, and the importance of hard work and perseverance. Masar also reflects on her transition to coaching and the remarkable growth of the NWSL, aiming to inspire young female athletes worldwide.

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Find Jordyn and Sam on their Insta's @sam.cary @jordyn_wickes

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Navigating NIL: Insights with Darian Harris on the Evolving Landscape of College Athletics

In this super informative Episode 7 of the BIG LIFE, Jordyn and Sam delve into the rapid changes within NCAA athletics, particularly focusing on the evolving NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) policies.

Joined by Darien Harris, Assistant Athletic Director for Business Development and NIL Strategy at Michigan State University, the discussion covers recent NCAA settlements, the intricacies of NIL, and the impact on college athletes. Harris provides valuable insights into building personal brands, the role of social media, and the challenges and opportunities for athletes in both revenue and non-revenue sports, specifically women’s soccer. The conversation aims to educate current and prospective college athletes on leveraging NIL opportunities while maintaining a focus on community and academic priorities.

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Find Jordyn and Sam on their Insta's @sam.cary @jordyn_wickes

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Sports Performance and Mental Resilience Coach Nick Holton Shares Game and Life-Changing Tips

Episode 6 of the BIG LIFE goes international, with Jordyn visiting a teammate in Montreal and Sam slaying it in Sweden, partying with Taylor and the Swifties!

But that's not all! We have an amazing guest on this week's podcast: Dr. Nick Holton, an expert in sports performance and mental resilience. Dr. Holton, who works closely with Michigan State,  and, dives deep into the mental aspects of athletic performance. He discusses the importance of understanding the mind-body connection, the concept of anti-fragility, and how to navigate common mental struggles athletes face, such as the negativity bias.

Dr. Holton also shares practical tips for athletes of all ages on how to improve their mental game, get into a flow state, and leverage both positive and negative experiences for growth. Whether you're an athlete, a coach, or someone interested in the science of human flourishing, this episode is packed with valuable insights.

Please subscribe to the BIG LIFE wherever you love to listen. 

Subscribe to Girls Soccer Network's GSN Newsletter to stay posted about upcoming episodes. 
Find Jordyn and Sam on their Insta's @sam.cary @jordyn_wickes

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A Journey from High School to College Soccer: High School Senior Brooke Allen Joins TBL!

Welcome to another episode of The Big Light Podcast, where we dive deep into the world of soccer with our dedicated and ambitious guests. This week, Jordyn chats with Brooke Allen, a high school senior entering the University of Wisconsin next fall. Jordyn and Brooke went to the same high school in Ohio and played one season when Brooke was a freshman.

With the signing day ink just barely dry from Brooke's commitment, we go super granular as they discuss everything from dreams and expectations and recruitment strategies, the anticipation and challenges of joining a new team, and invaluable insights into the impact of social media and recent policies affecting the sporting landscape.

They also discuss real-life challenges, such as sustaining injuries and the subsequent recovery process, and common misconceptions about high school VS club soccer, highlighting the inherent value presented by both platforms.

Episode 5 will give future soccer aspirants priceless advice on joining a club team, practicing resilience and tenacity, and the importance of unwavering belief in your abilities.

Please subscribe to the BIG LIFE wherever you love to listen!

 

Subscribe to Girls Soccer Network's GSN Newsletter to stay posted about upcoming episodes. 
Find Jordyn and Sam on their Insta's @sam.cary @jordyn_wickes

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Subscribe to our YouTube channel @girlssoccernetwork6137

What Does A Soccer Agent Do? Meet Inspired XI's Gabriel Chapman and Learn About the Art of Agenting.

Join special guest Gabriel Chapman, Executive Director of Inspired XI, in a riveting conversation on international women's soccer and the path to a professional career. In this episode of the Big Life Podcast, hosts Sam and Jordyn explore the multifaceted world of women's football, emphasizing the importance of agents and comprehensive player management. Gain insights into successful transitions from college to professional play, and unlock the surging global opportunities in women's soccer.

Delve into an in-depth understanding of regional playing styles, contracts, social media management, and more! Get an up close and personal glimpse of the intensified field of women's soccer, which has fostered enthusiasm and investment in the sport across nations.

Zooming into the topic of agency representation, the conversation elucidates the potential areas of conflict. Also, learn about the ideal timeline is provided to guide college-going soccer aspirants.

The episode culminates with the hosts sharing their experiences in soccer, highlighting the significance of finding the right agent and introducing the latest NCAA updates.

Tune in to learn how to effectively navigate and thrive in the world of professional women's soccer!

Please subscribe to the BIG LIFE wherever you love to listen!

 

Subscribe to Girls Soccer Network's GSN Newsletter to stay posted about upcoming episodes. 
Find Jordyn and Sam on their Insta's @sam.cary @jordyn_wickes

Follow us on Instagram (@girlssoccernetwork)

Follow us on Twitter @girlssoccernet

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @girlssoccernetwork6137

Question and Answer Time! Navigating Performance, Mental Health, the Recruitment Process and More!

In this episode of The BIG LIFE, Jordyn and Sam answer viewers' questions and share their insights on fitness, and mental health programs for college-athletes. If you're a senior entering college in the fall, you don't want to miss this! Discover summer training and academic tips to prepare new college freshmen for the exciting challenges ahead.

They delve into the merits of sleep scheduling, nutrition, hydration, and mental health assistance programs and understand the essential role these factors play in enhancing the overall performance and mental well-being of athletes.

The episode also highlights the potential of digital platforms and ID camps in providing visibility and recruiting opportunities for aspiring college-level soccer players.

At the end of the day, Episode 3 underscores the joy and fulfillment derived from being part of a team. Tune in for an enlightening conversation brimming with practical tips, personal anecdotes, and an unwavering passion for soccer!

TheBIG LIFE is a Girls Soccer Network podcast.

Please subscribe to the BIG LIFE wherever you love to listen. 

Subscribe to Girls Soccer Network's GSN Newsletter to stay posted about upcoming episodes. 
Find Jordyn and Sam on their Insta's @sam.cary @jordyn_wickes

Follow us on Instagram (@girlssoccernetwork)

Follow us on Twitter @girlssoccernet

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @girlssoccernetwork6137