The BIG LIFE

Is DI or DII Better? Let's Ask Mackenzie Jones, Who's Played Both! Plus the Big Ten Conf is Booming!

Welcome back to "The Big Life!" In this episode, Jordyn and Sam celebrate Michigan State's historic win against Notre Dame and look forward to their upcoming match against Arkansas. Jordyn shares the intense emotions of the game and the experience of watching from the sidelines due to injury.

The episode transitions into a comprehensive recap of Big Ten women's soccer, highlighting major moments like Iowa's controversial match against Oregon State and Nebraska's surprising loss to Oklahoma State. Jordan and the host delve into the implications of these games and the different dynamics at play.

In a special segment, the episode features an interview with Mackenzie Jones, who transferred from Grand Valley State University to Purdue University for her fifth year. Mackenzie shares her journey, the challenges of the transfer portal, and the differences between Division II and Big Ten soccer.

Additionally, the episode covers exciting international women's soccer news, including the crossover games between the Women's Super League and the NWSL, as well as the kickoff of the USL Super League.

Tune in for a blend of personal stories, in-depth analysis, and heartfelt moments that capture the essence of living "The Big Life."

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The Big Life: Unveiling the USL Super League

Welcome back to The Big Life! In this episode, Sam and Jordyn explore the brand-new USL Super League, a new professional league for women. Join us as we dive into the league's inaugural season, and what this means for players who want to continue their careers. 

We had the privilege of speaking with two talented players from different teams: Sheyenne Allen from Fort Lauderdale and Jenny Vetter from Spokane, Washington. They share their personal journeys, experiences, and what makes the USL Super League special. Learn how this league aims to elevate women's soccer by providing more avenues for players to continue their professional careers on home soil.

Discover the excitement surrounding the league's kickoff, the competitive spirit of the teams, and how you can catch all the action on Peacock. Whether you're a dedicated fan or new to women's soccer, this episode is packed with insights and enthusiasm for the future of the sport.

Don't miss out on this enlightening conversation and get ready to support the USL Super League as it makes its mark in the world of professional women's soccer!

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

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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!

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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

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!

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

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.

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

 

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.

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

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

Follow us on Instagram (@girlssoccernetwork)

Follow us on Twitter @girlssoccernet

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @girlssoccernetwork6137

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

Follow us on Instagram (@girlssoccernetwork)

Follow us on Twitter @girlssoccernet

Subscribe to our YouTube channel @girlssoccernetwork6137