Beyond the Sidelines: Women Reshaping Sports Journalism

Summary

Podcast Summary: Beyond the Sidelines: Women Reshaping Sports Journalism

Podcast: BILFPOD
Host: Mara Dorne
Guest: Kendra Douglas (two-time Edward Murrow Award-winning sports reporter)
Date: February 5, 2026

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Episode Overview

This inspiring episode centers on the remarkable journey of Kendra Douglas, a former Division I track athlete turned trailblazing sports journalist. Mara Dorne and Kendra dive deep into the realities of pursuing bold dreams, the grit required behind the glamorous facade of sports media, and the unique challenges—and triumphs—of being a Black woman in a predominantly male industry. The conversation also branches into hot topics such as representation, ethics in sports media, social media’s impact, and the evolving role of women on and off the sidelines.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

1. Kendra’s Early Life and Competitive Drive

[01:42–02:46]

• Kendra shares how her mother encouraged her to “dream the boldest dreams”—advice that became her mantra.
• Grew up a dedicated track athlete; her dad (also her coach) fostered her relentless drive.
• Realized in college that her future wasn’t competing but storytelling, inspired by her journalist mother.

“My mom always told me to dream the boldest dreams… it has totally just transformed my life.” — Kendra Douglas [01:43]

2. First Big Break: Reporting at the Olympics

[02:50–05:06]

• As a college student, participated in a rare opportunity to report at the Brazil Olympics alongside her friend, Jenny.
• Covered Usain Bolt’s historic final race, experiencing the surreal effort and long hours behind major sports moments.

“We would leave early…get there maybe at like 3pm, 4pm to now, 3am… just to get this guy. And I was willing to make the sacrifice.” — Kendra Douglas [05:09]

3. Transition from Local News to NBA/NFL Coverage

[06:16–08:57]

• Detailed struggle post-Olympics: scarcity of sports media jobs led her to a general assignment role in Wilmington, NC.
• Highlighted the importance of persistence and seizing any opportunity to build credibility and a reel.
• Moved to Wichita, Kansas—covered the Kansas City Chiefs (Mahomes’ rookie years) and then, with the help of an agent, to Orlando to cover the Magic and Tampa Bay Buccaneers (including Tom Brady’s historic Super Bowl run).

“Everything is happening for me. Like, everything I’m dreaming of.” — Kendra Douglas [08:47]

4. Representation & Navigating Male-Dominated Spaces

[09:35–13:49]

• The reality of being “the only Black woman in the locker room,” and forming bonds with peers.
• Respect was earned through preparation, competence, and confidence—not just “acting like the guys” but claiming full belonging.
• For Kendra, seeing herself as a co-worker among athletes fosters mutual respect and trust, leading to better storytelling for audiences.

“I just felt like I deserve to be in this room. I’ve worked my butt off… I was ready.” — Kendra Douglas [11:48]

5. Most Memorable Reporting Moments

[14:20–15:59]

• Covering the Super Bowl during COVID was especially surreal: “no one’s there,” yet it was Tom Brady’s career finale.
• First time covering a Magic game at Madison Square Garden as a lifelong dream: “this is the Mecca.”

“Walking up the huge ramp to get to the court, I was like, Oh my God, I'm here.” — Kendra Douglas [15:25]

6. Confronting Racism & Sexism in the Industry

[16:29–18:10]

• Faced the most explicit bias early in her career, especially in rural areas as “the only one.”
• Shared an anecdote from Kansas when a stranger recognized her—offering a moment of belonging.
• Emphasizes her unshakeable sense of self: “this is who I am, and I’m good at what I do.”

7. “True or False” Sports Media Rapid Fire

Segment Starts [20:11]

Key Highlights:

• All athletes respect female reporters: “True. For me, that’s fine.” [20:23]
• Social media improved sports journalism: “False. We gotta do better… Sometimes it’s better to vet a situation.” [21:41]
• Athletes too sensitive to criticism: “True. I think everybody’s too sensitive… just let it go.” [22:08]
• Women need to prove themselves more: “A thousand percent true.” [23:19]
• Media is more about entertainment than journalism: “True, but I’m not mad at it…if you can still hold that journalistic integrity—why not?” [23:29–24:23]
• Male jealousy over women getting access: “I’ve never had to deal with that.” [25:47]
• Stick to sports is code for ‘don’t speak on social justice’: Explores how holding a platform and using it for issues that matter is valid, despite pushback. [28:09]
• NIL deals (college athletes getting paid) are disrupting college sports: Mixed feelings—happy for athletes, but sees chaos and loss of stability/fan loyalty. [30:40]
• WNBA should get equal pay: “If more, they deserve more. Pay the players.” [32:13]

8. Personal Sacrifices and Resilience

[35:00–36:36]

• Admits to the “loneliness” and social sacrifices: missed friendships, challenges in dating, relentless travel.
• Expresses gratitude for friends and family support—and the strains those relationships sometimes feel.

“It does get lonely in this world. You’re constantly traveling…you don’t always have your best friends with you.” — Kendra Douglas [36:28]

9. Accolades, Family, and Staying Grounded

[37:24–40:19]

• Shares pride in being honored with a proclamation by the Kansas governor for contributions to women in sports broadcasting.
• Credits a large, tight-knit family and active group chat for keeping her humble and connected.

“They will keep me humble. In a heartbeat… But I love it.” — Kendra Douglas [40:11]

10. Rapid Fire: Fun and Inspirational Q&A

[40:19–42:08]

• Best athlete interview: Paolo Banchero [40:27]
• One thing to change in sports media: More women invited to the table [40:42]
• Dream interview: A’ja Wilson (WNBA) [40:54]
• Advice for young women: “Keep going. Accept criticism from the right people.” [41:23]

“Accept criticism from the right people... Sometimes people…will just talk about you and say things to you.” — Kendra Douglas [41:47]

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• “If you leave after watching this, if anything you take away, it’s just to continue to dream the boldest dreams, go after them, and then, like, don’t be silent about your dreams.” — Kendra Douglas [00:00, repeated at 43:43]
• “I just want everyone to feel comfortable when I’m talking…like I’m talking to you for years.” — Kendra Douglas [13:49]
• “Sometimes you plant a seed not to eat right now, but to eat later.” — Podcast Host [09:17]
• “I didn’t feel intimidated…I just felt like I deserve to be in this room.” — Kendra Douglas [11:48]
• “You have to believe in yourself… I am so crazy, but I believe it’s gonna work.” — Kendra Douglas [43:31]

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Timestamps for Important Segments

• Kendra's journey from athlete to journalist: 01:42–02:46
• Brazil Olympics reporting experience & ‘aha moment’: 02:50–05:06
• First jobs, struggle, and “breaking in”: 06:16–08:57
• Navigating male-dominated locker rooms: 09:35–13:49
• Most memorable big-game coverage: 14:20–15:59
• On racism, sexism, and earning respect: 16:29–18:10
• “True or False” segment: 20:11–34:12
• Personal sacrifice & impact on relationships: 35:00–36:36
• Family & staying grounded: 37:24–40:19
• Rapid fire Q&A: 40:19–42:08
• Advice and final words: 42:08–43:43

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Final Message and Takeaways

Kendra and Mara both agree:

• Relentlessness, self-belief, and resilience are essential for women breaking into sports journalism or any male-dominated space.
• Sacrifices are real, but so are the rewards and personal growth.
• Representation matters—there’s never been a better time for women to claim space, elevate one another, and change the media landscape.

“Don’t ever give up on who you are. Go all in—full belief in yourself. It might take a little while, but you’ll get there.” — Podcast Host Mara Dorne [43:27]

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Listener Challenge:
Both host and guest urge women with big aspirations to literally write down three dreams and send them in for support, echoing Kendra's signature advice:

“Don’t be silent about your dreams. Speak it out, write it down, everything. Show yourself—what do I need to do to get there?” — Kendra Douglas [43:43]

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Follow Kendra Douglas on all social media (@KendraDouglas), and tune in to see which bold, history-making sports moment she covers next.

Transcript

[Kendra Douglas]

You're realizing majority of your time is spent at this one place. Not everyone wants to make that sacrifice. And I, I knew then, like, this is what I wanted. This is what I wanted to do. And I was willing to make the sacrifice. I was willing to do those. Do the time for it. If you leave after watching this, if anything you take away, it's just to continue to dream the boldest dreams, go after them and then, like, don't be silent about your dreams.

[Podcast Host]

Welcome back to the build pod where authenticity trumps authority. Now, today's guest, she knows what it's like. And I said she. She knows what it's like to compete at the highest level. From being a D1 track star right at the at U. From UNC. 400 meter. Am I right? 400 meter. On top of that, she is one of the few black sports reporters out there that reports on NBA, NFL. You also are an Edward Murrow award win.

[Kendra Douglas]

Two time. You are on this.

[Podcast Host]

I'm on this, girl. Look how good I'm doing. So, I mean, literally, this is the best show we're gonna have because I have Ms. Kendra Douglas. She is gorgeous. Brains, beauty, athlete. I mean, I don't think there's anything you don't do. Welcome to the Billboard, girl.

[Kendra Douglas]

Thank you. Oh, my God, that introduction was amazing. So thank you for that. I appreciate you.

[Podcast Host]

Well, thanks for coming on. I mean, we gotta just dig right into it because I have so many questions. So we'll start from the way beginning.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Okay. I know we were talking a little bit about it before backstage, if you will. So how did this all start for you? Like, we went from one athlete to a reporter.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

I mean, how.

[Kendra Douglas]

Like, it's crazy. It's crazy. I. You know, my mom always told me to dream the boldest dreams, and I think that sounds a little cheesy, but, like, goodness, it has totally just like transformed my life. So. Yeah, so I was an athlete pretty much my whole entire life. I mean, I was running track for so long since I was little, and my dad would wake up with me and like, we would go and like, go to track meets and go like, everything. He was semi my coach. It's probably why I hated him for so long. I love my dad, but it was just one of those things where he just always pushed me. And so I think that's where I got my competitive drive from, was like always being pushed to just do my best. So then I get to college and went to unc, ran track. But I instantly realized, like, that's not my future. Like, that wasn't my goal. And that's where my mom comes in of, like, she was a journalist for a majority of her life. And then I learned a lot from her. And I think because of my competitive drive and just, like, my journalistic instincts, I was like, we're gonna combine these two.

[Podcast Host]

So smart.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah. Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

So in college, though, you also were reporting.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

You did do a gig in college where you went to. Was it the Olympics?

[Kendra Douglas]

Oh, my go. Yes. Oh, my God. That was so.

[Podcast Host]

I know all this.

[Kendra Douglas]

I love it.

[Podcast Host]

I love it. So, like, how did that even. Like, how did that conspire or not conspire, but how did that whole thing about that you went. You're in college now, you get. Was an internship that work.

[Kendra Douglas]

So this is so cool. So my professor at the time, he would go and help out at the Olympics, and basically they would need students to come in and be, quote, reporters and interview these athletes for. For the Olympics that, like, you didn't. That English wasn't your first language. So for London Games, they didn't have anybody. Right. But for Brazil, they needed a group. So my best friend and I. And I gotta give her a shout out. Jenny, like, we were like, the only two athletes really, like, in the journalism school. She played soccer, I ran track. And we both went to Brazil and did this internship together, along with a few other people who were still very close with too. And yeah, I got to go to Brazil. That was also when you same Bolt ran his last competitive meet. So I got to interview him. And that was crazy. And it was one of those things where, like, I grew up seeing so many of these people. And then also a lot of them were my friends. So I was interviewing some of my friends who had made it to the Olympics and made it to the trials and all that. And it was one of those experiences where I was like, this is something where you're not going to get often and I'm going to make the most of it. And I absolutely loved it. It was so cool. Such a surreal moment to say that, like, I got to go to the Olympics and cover the Olympics.

[Podcast Host]

That is. Was that like your aha moment where you were like, this is really what I want to do?

[Kendra Douglas]

I think so. Because I was long nights girl. Long nights. Think about this. Like, usain bowl is the fastest man in the world. Everyone wants to speak to him. Everyone from every country. And I was like a. Like, we were, quote, reporters. So I was typing everything. So we were like, last. So I was working these Track meets until like 3am and just to get. Just to get this guy. Yeah. Because everyone wanted him. So I would go home at 3am and I would just sit there and be like, this is what I want to do. And that was it.

[Podcast Host]

So you're like, forget it. Whatever other dream.

[Kendra Douglas]

And that was.

[Podcast Host]

I mean, that's a big dream, though.

[Kendra Douglas]

It is. Especially when you're like, you're realizing majority of your time is spent at this one place. Like, I was. We would. We would leave early. I would get there maybe at like 3pm, 4pm so like 3, 4pm to now, 3am that's wild. Not everyone wants to make that sacrifice. And I. I knew then, like, this is what I wanted. This is what I wanted to do. And I was willing to make the sacrifice. I was willing to do those. Do the time for it.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah. And now I would say, you know, just side note, that's what makes you more successful than other people, is because you're willing to do what a lot of people are not willing to do.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Just to get. So it's like true what they show you in the movies, that you have to get way before the athlete gets there and then stay after just to get that little glimpse or that one quote or just something that they're gonna say.

[Kendra Douglas]

Those three minutes. Like, you're literally like, think about it. Like, I just said I was there from three to three, and I only needed, what, like, three minutes of a, like, interview from him? And it's like. But I loved it. I was like, this is what I want to do.

[Podcast Host]

All right, so now I'm picturing this. You're doing your internship.

[Kendra Douglas]

You.

[Podcast Host]

You go to the Olympics. And then from. Where did you take on with, like, where did the whole Orlando Magic thing?

[Kendra Douglas]

Oh, God. That came over time. So it's funny, when I got back from Brazil, there were like, no sports jobs available. There were like, nothing available because it was like when people were hiring during the summer, I was in Brazil, so I was going back home and I was like, I am jobless. I don't know what I'm gonna do. And my parents were like, figure it out. Like, they were like, we'll. We'll help you as much as we can, but, like, you gotta figure it out. And I had a professor tell me, look, there is a job in Wilmington, North Carolina, and you have to do news and sports. And I was like, I don't want to do news. Like, I want to do fully sports. So I. I did it because I didn't have Anything. And I had to start somewhere, so I started there. And instantly I was like, okay. In order to again, set myself apart, I need to find more sports stories that can run in this, you know, in the new shows, and I really need to do that. So I did. I mean, during that time is when there was that really bad hurricane in Houston, Texas, and athletes from all over the world were donating their clothes. I remember this there. So I interviewed a lot of students at the local school, UNC Wilmington, and how they were donating clothes. And I remember thinking, like, this is going to be a story that can, like, do very well, and I need to keep it on my reel. And, like, I need to have that. And I did. And I did, and I kept doing that. And finally, another station in Kansas. Wichita, Kansas. Do you even know where that is?

[Podcast Host]

I know, I know. Yeah, it's like where Dorothy. Yeah, the tornadoes. I know.

[Kendra Douglas]

So they were like, hey, we really like what you got going on and we want to bring you on. And there I got to cover the Kansas City Chiefs.

[Podcast Host]

That's cool.

[Kendra Douglas]

And there's where I covered Patrick Mahomes and, like, his first couple of years, which are amazing years. It was like when he was just starting out and that route, that's what really set me apart. So when I got an agent and they were like, okay, Orlando wants you. I was like, no offense, Orlando, sorry. I was like, where Mickey Mouse lives. What? I was like, that's where I'm going. Like, you want me there? And they're like, hear me out. Hear me out. They were like, they have basketball, they have, you know, golfing tournaments. They have nascar, and they also do a lot with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. And at the time, Tom Brady had not signed yet. So I was like, okay, I'm going to be covering this football team and, you know, whatever. Then Tom Brady signed with the Buccaneers, and I was like, what on earth is happening in my life?

[Podcast Host]

Weren't you there for that?

[Kendra Douglas]

Yes. Like, everything is happening for me. Like, everything I'm dreaming of. So I got to cover Tom Brady taking the team to the Super Bowl.

[Podcast Host]

That's incredible. So it really is all about. I mean, not manifesting is one thing.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

But it's waiting also. So many people give up before they get their moment to shine. Isn't a lot easier sometimes to just quit. You can go back, say, forget it. I'm going to throw in the towel. I'll go back to what I know. We'll just call it a day. But so many people fail because they Won't stick it out.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

It doesn't happen. Right. Somebody, I was one of my good friends, he's like, you plant a seed not to eat right now, but to eat later. And that's where it's right. And that's where it's so, you know, for people that are procrastinating or not procrastinating, people that are waiting around, keep waiting. I mean, but just keep going and doing. You kept posting on your stories.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

You believed in yourself. I mean, there's so many takeaways from what you're saying, which is incredible. And I love this for you, especially because the one parallel that you and I have is that we're both women in a male dominated industry. Girl, let's talk about that. Not only are you a woman, but you're a black woman.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah. Males. I got two things.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, two things. You're Jewish. Should be black.

[Kendra Douglas]

Jewish. Everything I'm losing because I'm Jewish.

[Podcast Host]

So just laughing. But think about this. You go into these locker rooms, right? You're allowed in there. What is going on, like through your head and what do you think is going on with the player's head? Because first of all, you're gorgeous. You're absolutely stunning. And then you walk in. Is it uncomfortable for you? Did you ever feel uncomfortable?

[Kendra Douglas]

You know, I think my first locker room was with the Chiefs. And for starters, I was, I think, one of. I think at the time when I was covering the Chiefs, I was the only black woman there. There were other women, but I was the only black woman there. So instantly, I think some of the other black sports reporters gravitated and we became like really close. So they were so, you know, got to show them love because they helped me out a lot. They definitely were people who like, always also knew the rope. So I think I felt good in that sense where I was like, okay, they accept me, but do they respect me?

[Podcast Host]

That's, I would think, is the whole, you know, it's not about being intimidated or scared. It's like you already know you're walking into the situation. It was never a matter of like.

[Kendra Douglas]

Oh, I'm a woman.

[Podcast Host]

It's like, will they respect?

[Kendra Douglas]

Will they respect me? So I think that was my biggest thing of like, is she just some girl that's coming up here? We're gonna show her the ropes and tell her everything, but can she do her job? And I think my first locker room, I didn't feel intimidated. I think I felt like, you gotta go in there and you gotta act like the Guys, like, you gotta go in there and you gotta just do.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Kendra Douglas]

So I'm there. I am, like, with my camera and mic, and here I am sticking the mic in front of, like, Travis Kelsey's mouth or, like, Patrick. Well, Patrick goes to, like, the presser, but, like, other players who are in the locker room. And I'm just, like, asking questions, too. I'm like, I can do this. Like, I know the game. Like, I know what I'm saying. And from there, I instantly was like, okay, I think I've shown them now.

[Podcast Host]

Yes.

[Kendra Douglas]

And I did. I got so much respect from a lot of the players, the staff, and also the reporters who were there, too, that when I moved and I started covering Tampa, I didn't feel, like, nervous either. I didn't feel like, okay, I'm scared to be in this room. I just felt like I deserve to be in this room. I've worked my butt off. I've waited, I've progressed. I've gone through places where, like Wichita, little small towns to get to this moment. So it wasn't like you were ready. I was ready. I was ready.

[Podcast Host]

Embracing it. It wasn't about being a black woman. It's just being Kendra and being like, here I am. I arrived. I've worked for it. And here we. And here we go.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah. No, that's the best way to put it. I felt then I was ready, and I felt like when it was time for me to move forward, leading back to kind of like what you asked of how did I got to the magic? I felt ready for the magic. I felt ready. Like, I had been covering these players in local television. Now I know what I'm doing. I know what's going on. Of course it's going to be an adjustment. Now you need a whole bunch of these guys to trust you, you know, like, they're not going to just tell you how they're feeling right away. So I felt like. But I felt like I'm ready, Like, I'm ready for this moment. Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

And you could see it.

[Kendra Douglas]

I mean, I did. I told you.

[Podcast Host]

I saw you at a Magic game, and I see you there all confident, and you're saying that the boys think that you're really more like a big sister. So I'm sure now it's like you.

[Kendra Douglas]

Do it with ease and grace, and.

[Podcast Host]

You'Re just having a good time with it.

[Kendra Douglas]

Ye. Yeah. I mean, I think I look at it as like, they're ultimately, everyone's your coworker. Like, I look at them as like, you Know, like, I'm just, like, they're just my co workers, and I. And I think when you look at them like that one, you guys can now, like, have the level of respect of, like, you're talking to your coworker and you're sharing, you know, what's going on in your life, and you can get, like, those nuggets and those information about what's happening in their life that you can now give to the audience, which is my job, is to, like, make sure people at home feel like, okay, I'm learning more about these players that I don't normally know.

[Podcast Host]

I love that.

[Kendra Douglas]

And I. Yeah. I just want everyone to feel comfortable when I'm talking. Yeah. And I want them to feel like, okay, she's doing it. Like, she's.

[Podcast Host]

What you do make people feel like that. Like, it's like talking to you for years. But speaking of which, what was, like, one of your favorite moments or, like, one. I'm sure there's so many. But one was your favorite or, like, most interesting moment that you covered?

[Kendra Douglas]

Oh, with the magic or in general?

[Podcast Host]

In general, you can give me.

[Kendra Douglas]

My gosh, that is tough.

[Podcast Host]

Or most memorable moment that you have?

[Kendra Douglas]

Like, I mean, I think covering a Super bowl is pretty memorable. And covering the buck super bowl during COVID is one that is so unique because it was like, no one's there. Like, it was. It was so different. We hadn't. You know, this was so unheard of. And on top of that, it was like, now covering Tom Brady, which is so insane to say that, like, you got to see basically his end of his career. Like, I got to be there for that. So I think that was probably the most memorable moment. And then I think also one of my most memorable moments. And it's funny because you and I talked about this, but I think my most memorable moment was my first year covering a magic game at Madison Square Garden. I think that always the mother of.

[Podcast Host]

All mothers quote in Madison Square Garden.

[Kendra Douglas]

It's just iconic. It's. It's old in the best way. It's just one of those places where you're like, this is the Mecca. Like, we're here. Yes. And I think when I was walking up this huge ramp to get to the court, I was like, oh, my God, I'm here.

[Podcast Host]

I love. It's so nostalgic because you see this in movies.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

So, like, it felt. Did it feel like a movie to you?

[Kendra Douglas]

Oh, a thousand percent. And it's like, they do Celebrity Row, and you're, like, seeing all the celebrities that are there and you're just like, y' all are here. This game, like, this is crazy. And I just think it was amazing. And, you know, being able to also interview our players after a win there, it's. It's just like an out of body experience. And I don't think that will ever get old. Anytime that we go to Madison Square Garden, I don't think it'll ever get old. I think that will always be like memorable moments. Always.

[Podcast Host]

That place is incredible. I was just there, so I know just walking in there and I've been like quite a few times since I'm a little girl. I used to go. But being there, like with my kids and seeing my son's face was like, the look on his face was so overwhelming for me that people dream of this moment and here you are, you're on the court.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

You know, I was only on the sidelines. You're on the court, you know, seeing everything and it's such a different. Such a different experience, I'm sure, for. From your end, but with all the good. So let's, let's be honest. You know, anywhere we go, there's always bad.

[Kendra Douglas]

So.

[Podcast Host]

Have you ever experienced experience any form of racism, sexism from the coaches, the players, the industry in general?

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah, but I would say that a lot of it happened at the beginning of my career. Yeah. Because I'm working in places that are more rural, that seeing me is different. So I think something that I, you know, was always challenged by was my skin color. But I always kind of was like, this is who I am. Like, yeah. And like, I'm good at what I do. I think the first place that kind of tested me, and I don't want to say nothing was bad because I worked with great people who definitely made me feel comfortable. But I think when you move to like a place like the Midwest and you're just kind of like, you are the only one in a sense, I think that was different for a lot of people. And I think viewers had to adjust, and I think they did because it was one of those things where over time you would start to see people recognize you. And I remember one time, oh, my God. I remember this. I was going to Bath and Body Works to just get a candle and I looked crazy. I looked tired. I was like, I'm just here on my off day trying to get a candle. And there was a man that came over to me clearly shopping with his wife and had, like, had a bag and said, can we talk about those Kansas City Chiefs. And I just was like, huh? And he knew who I was. And he wanted us to have. While his wife. Not like, I wanted to go shopping, but while his wife was shopping, he wanted to have a full conversation about this NFL team. And I think in that moment, I felt good because I was like, okay, like, I've arrived. I've arrived.

[Podcast Host]

I love that.

[Kendra Douglas]

But also, sir, I would like to get my mahogany teakwood candle and go home.

[Podcast Host]

That's so funny that you say that. I traveled to Moline, Illinois, home of the kkk, to go watch Snoop Dogg.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah. And what kind of people would you think would be at a Snoop Dogg?

[Kendra Douglas]

I. Not people who are. You know, I would think, like, you're young. You're probably, like, in the hip hop world. So black. And then, like, I would also think, no, no, no.

[Podcast Host]

I sat next to a guy named Shadow Lakosaurus.

[Kendra Douglas]

Wow. What a name.

[Podcast Host]

I can't even make this up. It was the most eclectic, crazy crowd that I'd ever seen in my life. Yeah, he does.

[Kendra Douglas]

You know, I think that's so cool about him. I do, too.

[Podcast Host]

And he also hangs out with Martha Stewart.

[Kendra Douglas]

So. Yeah, you know, I met him when he was in Tampa. I met him. Yes, yes. I met him while he was in Tampa. And he. And he, like, there's a clip. I have a club where, like, he introduced himself to me, I introduced myself, and he did this little segment. He was like, I'm here with Kendra, Doug. Like, he did a whole little bit, and it was great. And we thought we almost could put it on tv, but it was, like, during a commercial break. It was hilarious. But he was so good. And I think, like, in that moment, I was like, this is why everyone loves you. Like, you're just like, I'm jealous. I'm here for it all.

[Podcast Host]

I absolutely love this guy.

[Kendra Douglas]

Isn't he cool?

[Podcast Host]

And he's insane. He is my favorite. Who's your favorite rapper?

[Kendra Douglas]

Oh, I don't know. Probably. This is going to sound so, like, new. So Snoop is great, but Gunner is probably my favorite. Did you see. Okay, so, like, we need to switch. We need a little switch for a quick hot second. Did you.

[Podcast Host]

Outside of a restaurant in Atlanta.

[Kendra Douglas]

I just feel like his music is so good. Yeah. Everything. And then, like, I'm never here when he is performing in Orlando or in the Florida area. And I'm always like, I got to get to a concert one day. So. One day.

[Podcast Host]

One day.

[Kendra Douglas]

One day.

[Podcast Host]

That is hilarious. But yes. So, all right, so we're Gonna move back. I know. I love topic. All right, so true or false. Okay, so. Okay, I'm gonna. All right, we're gonna switch gears. We're gonna have a little bit of fun.

[Kendra Douglas]

Love this.

[Podcast Host]

I'm gonna hit you some statements about sports media. You're going to say whether it's true or false.

[Kendra Douglas]

Okay. Okay.

[Podcast Host]

All athletes respect female reporters.

[Kendra Douglas]

True. For me, that's fine. True. True. Like, yeah, I. Yeah, I haven't had any issues.

[Podcast Host]

All right. Social media has made sports journalism better. Okay.

[Kendra Douglas]

Heartache. Fossil. I think sometimes we live in a world where someone wants to be first all the time and they want to put everything out there first. And sometimes it's better to vet a situation to ask your sources and see if they're credible and then have the person actually confirm it before you just go off of hearsay. And I think sometimes we're seeing that so much. And also when private conversations become public, I think that's like, also just violating. And I've seen that multiple times where you'll be. Where, like, someone will be joking with an athlete and then they bring it to, like, Twitter and. Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

They take it out of context.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

There's a lot of propaganda.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Say something, they'll completely switch up with, you know what, the context of the conversation. And then all of a sudden, it's gone viral. And that's not even what the person.

[Kendra Douglas]

And that's not even what they meant. I have literally, like, if I'm about to tweet something, I will get like 15 billion people to look at it first. Because I'd rather just be right. Yeah. Then.

[Podcast Host]

And then all of a sudden you're like, oh, I gotta retract.

[Kendra Douglas]

Canceled. Exactly. So no. So I hate to say it because I love the way that social media has really joined the sports community. But, like, false. We gotta do better.

[Podcast Host]

We gotta do better. I like what you said about your. Our resources.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah. So gotta do better.

[Podcast Host]

And people are always looking to put anything on that'll go viral. I would agree.

[Kendra Douglas]

For what?

[Podcast Host]

How about this? Athletes today are too sensitive to criticism.

[Kendra Douglas]

I think everybody's too sensitive. That's just my opinion. I'd say true. I think that, like, we put these guys sometimes on too high of a pedestal and things that might not have made someone feel some type of way back then make them feel some type of way now.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Kendra Douglas]

And a part of me is kind of one of those things where I'm like, just let it go. Like, as long as you're living in your own bubble, your own World. Let it go. Like, don't let it get to you. Like, if you know who you are, if you are confident in yourself, don't let.

[Podcast Host]

I agree.

[Kendra Douglas]

These things get to you.

[Podcast Host]

I think that's just a society we live in. I think hypersensitive society. Like, what happened to the days where we, like, made fun of ourselves? You can't even. You can't say anything anymore without being offensive or too critical. And then everybody is walking on eggshells.

[Kendra Douglas]

They are.

[Podcast Host]

It's not even fun anymore.

[Kendra Douglas]

It's tough. It's very tough. But I. Yeah, I. I hate that because I think that we have some amazing athletes out there. I guess I would just say, like, let it go like you're doing. If you know who you are, if you're confident in yourself, just let it go. Just don't let it get to you so much. All right.

[Podcast Host]

You have to prove yourself more than your male colleagues. Thousand percent.

[Kendra Douglas]

True. I don't even. Just. I'm never going to let you finish. True. Go on the question. My bad. My bad.

[Podcast Host]

Media is more about entertainment now than journalism.

[Kendra Douglas]

Oh, that's tough. You know what's weird? It's, like, true, but I'm not mad at it. And here's why. I think we're seeing so many cool young guys come out. And when you say, like, entertainment, I also want to add fashion into that. Yes. Because it's like, I like the way that they are incorporating the fashion into their world. So I wouldn't even take it as a bad thing. I think that, like, I was watching this really cool documentary on Stuart Scott. He was somebody who I looked up to, and he passed away due to cancer. But he was part of that group that was actually merging entertainment and sports. So he had great interviews with Shaquille o'. Neal. And Shaq was, like a rapper back in the day as well. So he was, like, merging those into, like, his broadcast journalism. And so I think we got away from that. But I like the way that if we can continue to merge it in the best ways. Agreed. Then I think it's a beautiful thing, because I think with entertainment comes music, and sometimes you'll see, like, that's a. That means a lot for guys. Yes.

[Podcast Host]

And creativity.

[Kendra Douglas]

And creativity.

[Podcast Host]

And I think you can. I think you can for sure. If it's not done distasteful and it's not propaganda, I think you can absolutely merge.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

I love seeing the sports reporters, like, female or male, when, like, they're dressed to the nines. Yeah. Like, not schlubarama. But they're coming out, like, super nice, well spoken, great interview. I love that. It's funny. Like, you get to see their character, like, you really get to see their character shine instead of like the same old questions like, how are you feeling today after the game?

[Kendra Douglas]

I mean.

[Podcast Host]

But then they come with, like, really good question. I think it can be entertaining. And then I would say for someone, because I'm not a big sports goer, I do like that. I do like basketball, but, you know, even football games. For me, if you have a reporter on the sideline that's asking questions that are just like the same old run of the mill, then I'm not really that interested.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

But if it's entertaining and it was funny and they were doing, like, funny stuff or I would have a lot, you know, a lot more. I'd have a lot more apt to want to go to the game.

[Kendra Douglas]

I get that. I get that. I think. Yeah. I think that if you can merge it in the best way. Yeah. And you still hold that journalistic integrity. Thousand percent, why not? Like, I love it.

[Podcast Host]

I love it. Male reporters get jealous when women reporters get better access to players.

[Kendra Douglas]

I don't know. I don't know. I say the power of the P.

[Podcast Host]

Is a real thing that.

[Kendra Douglas]

I don't know. I've never. I've never. I've never. You didn't listen. I've never had to deal with that. That's what I'll say for me. Like, I've never had to deal with. Yeah, I can't.

[Podcast Host]

Joking on it, but not really. I'm kind of. I would say, use it to your advantage. The only reason why I'm saying that is because I'm in sales and women like to talk to women and males like to talk to women. So I feel like you already have an advantage going in because you're. First of all, you're credible, you're beautiful, you're very smart. So when you go in there, I feel like you do kind of have the upper hand in the best way. Not. Not in anything like the.

[Kendra Douglas]

No, no, no, no.

[Podcast Host]

The best way possible. Because statistically it is proven that men like to talk to women and women like to talk to women.

[Kendra Douglas]

I think that I try my best to tap into not just wanting to ask players the same questions over and over again, but wanting to kind of find what makes them tick a little bit differently.

[Podcast Host]

Love it.

[Kendra Douglas]

And like, what makes them, you know, or who around their circle makes them happy or, like, what coaches and players are around. You that, like. Like, really make an influence on you. So try to, like, go different.

[Podcast Host]

I like that.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Instead of a different angle.

[Kendra Douglas]

I love that. I think guys want to go X's and O's all the time, and nothing's wrong with that. There's still, I think, a brand out there where people just want to go X's and O's. They just wanted to hear about the game plan. They just want to hear the stats and the numbers. And I think today's world, they want to know a little bit more in.

[Podcast Host]

Depth about that player.

[Kendra Douglas]

I agree.

[Podcast Host]

I think everything is a little less curated and more real.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Like, anything. Even social media today is starting to, you know, instead of seeing, like, the B roll, like, people want to see the bts.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah. They want to see, like, they do.

[Podcast Host]

The man behind the player.

[Kendra Douglas]

They do, they do. They do. They want to see that. So I think that's where I try to take that stance of, like. Let me give you a little bit of the behind the scenes.

[Podcast Host]

You're so creative. I love it. I'm. Some athletes intentionally give women reported worse interviews.

[Kendra Douglas]

That's just called a bad day. I don't think. I don't think. I don't think that they intentionally. I just think that is just, like, they just had a bad. And they're just like, they're over it. I can't give you the energy right now.

[Podcast Host]

Here, I got another one.

[Kendra Douglas]

You're just like, all right.

[Podcast Host]

The phrase stick to sports is code for shut up about social justice issues.

[Kendra Douglas]

Stick to sports is, you know, that's your subject right there, I would say.

[Podcast Host]

I mean, are they. I see. I don't know. I don't listen enough to, like. Are you asking about social issues? Social justice issues are. Well, I'm trying to, like, throw that in.

[Kendra Douglas]

Here's the thing. I think that, like. And this goes back to our conversation of involving entertainment with sports. These are humans. Like, they're humans.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah.

[Kendra Douglas]

They deal with everything we're dealing with.

[Podcast Host]

They probably don't want to talk about politics.

[Kendra Douglas]

Well, but even if they do, I say that to say, like, they're going through it as well. Yeah. And so, like, if they see things around the world that could impact them if they weren't at that level, they kind of feel like that's not fair. Yeah. I want to say something. And I think that in their mind, they're thinking, I have the voice to say it. I'm at the highest level of my career. I'm doing everything that, like, I'm supposed to Do I want to talk about the issues that matter the most to me? Because it could affect my kids, it could affect my cousins, because not everyone's going to know who they're related to. So I think it's, like, hard. Like, no, I don't think that you should, like, stick to sports. I think if there's something in your heart that you're passionate about. So, yes, I do think that, like, yes, when they say stick to sports, they want you to just, like, not say what you feel. But I think in this world, everything going on in this world, it's so hard for athletes to say, anybody?

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, canceled.

[Kendra Douglas]

You do. That's.

[Podcast Host]

You can't say.

[Kendra Douglas]

But I think that, like, players kind of going back to what we said of, like, if you can do it in a tasteful way and if you can show how you are also putting the world on, you know, blast in the best way. What I think I've loved about certain athletes and what they've done is the way they've given back with, like, their charities and the way they've given back with, like, within the community. To say, like, okay, these are the issues that really mean the most to me. And even though you might be telling me to, like, not speak about it, what I can do is find a way to help give back in that community, to help give back to the young, you know, young black and brown kids out there that really need or who are in need or, you know, you want to see succeed. So I think it's, like, hard, but I think you're seeing so many athletes figure out a way that if they can't use their voice to talk about social justice, they can do it within the community, which is fine.

[Podcast Host]

I have no issue either way. I think people are just sensitive in general. So it is what it is. How about the nil deals are running college athletics? We'll talk about that, too.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah, they're running college athletics. Yeah. They need to. Yeah, True. Know, it's. I don't know how on earth we're gonna get this back into the ropes. Am I happy players are getting paid? Yes. Do I think that it's, like, chaotic right now? Yeah. Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

I feel like it's just not under control. There's, like, so many. There's a lot of gray to it. It's not really clearly defined. Like, whereas in, like, the NBA, it's pretty clear. It's pretty clear right now because it's so new. I think it's gray.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah, I think it is, too. But I think hopefully they get it under track. I think what people want is, when we grew up, we had players who we always, like, cheered on, and we cheered for them because we knew they were coming back another year, and we knew they were coming back another year. And I think you're losing, like, the whole, like, well, who do you, like, cheer for?

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, because they're gonna be there.

[Kendra Douglas]

You don't know if they're gonna be there. You don't know how much money they're making. All those things. It's just like a gray area. But I'm happy athletes are getting paid. I will say that.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, I think they should get paid, but I also think they should be kids.

[Kendra Douglas]

They're kids.

[Podcast Host]

Enjoy the college experience.

[Kendra Douglas]

Enjoy being a college student. I would give anything to just go back to being, like, no responsibilities of adult life and just being a college student.

[Podcast Host]

They. They took that away from the kids. Like, after all, like, these kids are what, they're 17, 18, 19 years old, going to college, and now they're dealing with financial stuff. Like, I don't know. Yeah, I'm happy they're getting paid for sure, but I still think they're kids.

[Kendra Douglas]

No. Yeah. It's just. It's a balance. You have to figure out how to balance at all. All right.

[Podcast Host]

This is a touchy one.

[Kendra Douglas]

Okay.

[Podcast Host]

WNBA players deserve equal paid NBA players.

[Kendra Douglas]

If more, they deserve more. I think that. Yes, I think. True. I think they do. I think they've worked so incredibly hard to build their brand, their legacy. You look at the women who have laid the foundation for them, and I think, if anything, it shows you that they deserve to be paid. I think you're seeing all these women now with shoe deals and brand deals, and you know, how they can continue to grow the brand for young ladies who look up to them. Yeah. Pay them.

[Podcast Host]

I agree.

[Kendra Douglas]

Pay the players.

[Podcast Host]

I mean, these are positive influences.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

For young women. So why not let them get paid? I mean, arguably, some people say, well, it's not, you know, not as many people are going to the WNBA games to watch them.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Well, that's just because there's not enough out there for them to go, you know, also people out there promoting them.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah. And I would also say, like, yeah, right. Like, go to a college women's basketball game. It is. They're. They're sold out sometimes go to, like, the WNBA games. They're. They bring in a great amount. And I love what so many people, what brands are doing. So you see, like, Sephora getting involved in that. I love that you see Like a lot of like hair brands getting involved. I love that you're finding ways to bring people in. And when you find ways to bring people in, you need to pay your players because they are putting the butts in the seats.

[Podcast Host]

They are putting the butts in the seats.

[Kendra Douglas]

They are doing that.

[Podcast Host]

Would you say that there's still this stigma of it's a boys world in sports media? What would you say on that one?

[Kendra Douglas]

I would say there is, but I would say that we are breaking it down and we are not breaking it down. We're sitting at the table with them all. And I would say that we are doing a really good job as women finding ways to insert ourselves and realize that like we too can do this. And I think you're seeing so many women grow our industry and I love it and we just need to continue. That's just that just you can't get rid of us.

[Podcast Host]

Guys.

[Kendra Douglas]

We're here, we're now here to stay.

[Podcast Host]

And who doesn't like a sexy like, like brains driven like woman.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

To comment like I think every guy secretly wants it too. I think they do.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

It's always nice. I know for myself, I love seeing women's sports reporters. I love seeing it. I love how like, you know, they'll go out there so confident. It's not cockiness, it's confident. Go out there, you know the game. I mean, I don't know anything about football. So if you're like touchdown, I don't.

[Kendra Douglas]

Even know what that means. No, I know the touchdown, but you know what I mean.

[Podcast Host]

I always think it's so sexy and it says a lot about a woman, woman's character. If they can show up in a.

[Kendra Douglas]

Male dominated space, thousand percent. And I think that also we just, if you know what you're talking about and you love the sport, you love your craft and you're studying your craft. Why can't I have a chance?

[Podcast Host]

I think, I think, I mean just speaking to you, I could never have a sports conversation.

[Kendra Douglas]

I lose. I would love it.

[Podcast Host]

No, but you, I mean, look, you have definitely. I think what people don't understand is like who you really are too. You've gone from Wichita, you've gone to Orlando. I mean you've gone from here there. You sacrifice. You like today, you're telling me you're up at 5am sometimes you're, you're flying your. What are you flying out tomorrow? Yeah, flying out tomorrow. Then you have to turn around, do it again over and over. I mean, hasn't that cost you something personally?

[Kendra Douglas]

Yes.

[Podcast Host]

Just sacrifice. And this is what women see. That's what you don't want to help.

[Kendra Douglas]

But they don't get the sacrifices. No, it is, it's. I've sacrificed so much. I mean, the other day I was, I. It's so funny. We talked about that. I hit up one of my girlfriends and I said, hey, I just want to say thank you. Like, I just want to say thank you. And I was just like. Because I know that, like, I haven't been the best friend for you this past couple of months. Like, I haven't been where I should be. And, you know, for her, she was like, the fact that, like, you show up when you can, I think speaks volumes. Yeah, she was just like, don't apologize for wanting to be great in your career and wanting to be amazing. She was like, you show up when needed, you show up when you're supposed to, and you show up when it counts. And I think that is like the best thing a friend could feel right now. Because it does get lonely in this world. You're constantly traveling and you don't always have your best friends with you to travel with you now. You make great friends along the way. And I have friends all over the world now where it's like, okay, I get into this place, I can call this one. We got to dinner, we can chit chat. But it does get lonely.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, you don't have your girls there.

[Kendra Douglas]

Exactly. And like, you're just trying to figure out how much of a sacrifice you can get.

[Podcast Host]

What about your personal life? Like that too?

[Kendra Douglas]

What is it? What is a personal life? Like, I don't have one of those right now. It's like, okay, you don't know who to trust first off, for sure. And then two, you don't know if you can find somebody who can accept your world.

[Podcast Host]

And that's a hard thing for a man to accept that his woman is traveling with the Magic Team and going here, there. You know, that's a lot that it's going to take a very strong.

[Kendra Douglas]

A very strong man. But I believe that that strong man is out there. I believe that that strong man will definitely be excited for everything that I can do. Just like, I'll be cheering him on as well. And then it'll just. I'm manifesting that.

[Podcast Host]

I'm manifesting for. What about your mom? I'm sure she in your dad. I'm sure they're so.

[Kendra Douglas]

Oh, they're great. I am so close to them. I will say my career has actually brought Me closer to them. I feel like my career has, I think, definitely created such a good bond and relationship with them. They've been so supportive. They do nothing but just ask me how I'm doing, where I'm going. They watch the games, and they live in North Carolina, so, like, they are streaming these games. They watch the games. When I was doing college football for espn, they were like, we'll watch the games. And it was easy for them, too, because they could just turn it on. So it's, like, beautiful to have my family just give me all the support.

[Podcast Host]

And you've had lots of accolades. I mean, you were honored by the governor of Kansas.

[Kendra Douglas]

Oh, yeah. Oh, my God. I forgot about that. Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

I mean, that's not, like, an everyday thing.

[Kendra Douglas]

I know. Yeah. So that proclamation was crazy. First off, I had no idea that I was even going to be on it. But I think that also shows you, too, like, what it means to pour into the next group of people. So the girl who told me about the proclamation was, like, my mentee, and she is also Ms. Kansas USA, and she called me randomly and was like, hey, girl, you've just done so much for me. You've done so much for Wichita by, like, putting a foundation of what it should be like to be a sports reporter here. She's like, I'm putting you in this proclamation for celebrating women in sports broadcasting. And I was like, that's amazing. Me. Me. And it was beautiful because when she sent it to me, there were other women on there, too, who I know. And I was just like, this is so cool. Like, this is so cool that, like, the state of Kansas is celebrating this. But I just felt like I didn't even know I made that impact on her. For her to, like, put me on, like, to do that.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, like, what an honor.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yes. But, like, it's history. I'm like, I am a part of history.

[Podcast Host]

That's incredible.

[Kendra Douglas]

Crazy.

[Podcast Host]

And all the things that you're doing are. I mean, this is just. And you're just scratching the surface. You haven't even, like. You haven't even, like, really. You know, you're peaking, but you're gonna go even higher. So you're just scratching it. So imagine what lies ahead for you, girl.

[Kendra Douglas]

I'm so nervous. It's like, I'm so excited. I'm so pumped. I feel lucky. I feel blessed. I feel just everything. I'm really big on my faith. And so I think that has just really kept me driven and kept me, like, going and moving forward. But, yeah, I Think I. In my life right now, I'm just like, okay, I know I have to make sacrifices, and I'm okay with that.

[Podcast Host]

How do you stay so grounded?

[Kendra Douglas]

My family. My family. We. Oh, my gosh. I have a huge family group chat, and we are all super close. I'm really close with my cousins and really close with my aunts and uncles, and we are in this huge group chat that, like, goes off probably every other day. And I think that alone, because they will keep me humble. In a heartbeat, they will tell me, like, yeah, my.

[Podcast Host]

They have no shame. My family, too. None will tell me about myself.

[Kendra Douglas]

In a heartbeat. In a heartbeat. But I love it, and I think they are really what keeps me grounded as my family.

[Podcast Host]

Incredible. I love this. All right, I'm gonna do some rapid fires. Okay, let's do it. First thing that comes to your mind, best athlete interview you've ever done.

[Kendra Douglas]

Best athlete interview I've ever done. Okay. I've done a lot. We'll go with Palo Ban Cara. Ooh, we'll do that.

[Podcast Host]

My kids are gonna are screaming right now. They're gonna want to know everything. All right. One thing you wish you could change about the sports media.

[Kendra Douglas]

One thing I wish I could change about sports media is inviting more women to the table. Love that. Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

Amen.

[Kendra Douglas]

Love it.

[Podcast Host]

Your dream interview, dead or alive.

[Kendra Douglas]

Oh, my dream interview. Okay. Asia Wilson. She. I. That woman is incredible. She is the most amazing WNBA player that just, I think, has done so much to give back to this community. So she is my dream interview. I just want to sit in Kiki with her. Like, let's just chat.

[Podcast Host]

You're gonna be. It's gonna happen.

[Kendra Douglas]

It's gonna happen.

[Podcast Host]

Best piece of advice you give to a young woman trying to break into sports broadcasting.

[Kendra Douglas]

Like, we just said, the weight. Keep going. Don't stop. It's gonna get hard. It's gonna get tiring, but if you are really into this, you'll do it. And another one. Accept criticism from the right people. That's what I would say. Sometimes you wanna. Sometimes people who, like, aren't invested in you or want to see you succeed will just talk about you and say things to you.

[Podcast Host]

It's the unsolicited advice.

[Kendra Douglas]

Yeah.

[Podcast Host]

I hate that when someone just randomly comes and they'll just say. And you're like, I didn't even ask for that.

[Kendra Douglas]

But then you have the ones who are like, your mentors and people who are been in the business for a while that I'm like, I want to be where you're at. So I will listen to you. So I would say, like, also accept criticism from the right people.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, I love that. And then my last question. What is next for you?

[Kendra Douglas]

What is next for me? That's a great question. Let's call my agent and ask him. What's next for me is to finish out this basketball season and then we will see. I'll just leave it at that. We'll do it.

[Podcast Host]

Do we have big things in the work?

[Kendra Douglas]

I think we have amazing things in the works. I think that we are going to be elevating our lives in the best way possible. I think so.

[Podcast Host]

And I think you're such an inspiration to women. And if anybody wants to find you.

[Kendra Douglas]

Where would they find you on social media? You can hit me up on all of them. All of them. Let's do Instagram. I think it's like Kendra Douglas. I made that very simple. So I'll put your handle too. Yeah, Instagram, Twitter, Tick tock. I'm on all of the social media platforms, so you can find me there. And let's connect.

[Podcast Host]

Well, today's interview, I hope. I know this is like a different. This is definitely a different vibe because usually you're on this side. So I hope I didn't disappoint you. But, I mean, I think the one takeaway that. That I took from you is that you literally can do anything. And I think a lot of time, women, they just kind of sell themselves short. And the one thing that I would say is parallel again between us is that it doesn't matter if you're a woman. Doesn't matter if you're a black woman. And what matters is showing up. Showing up. Don't ever give up on who you are. Go all in, full belief in yourself. And really, it might take a little while, but you'll get there. You just have to believe it.

[Kendra Douglas]

I. You have to believe in yourself. There's this really cute, cute thing, this little meme that says, like, I am so crazy, but I believe it's gonna work. And I'm like, yes, that's me.

[Podcast Host]

Yeah, that's me too. And I'm just flying by the seat of my pants, baby.

[Kendra Douglas]

Like, we are hiding. Yeah. Yeah, I would totally just say that. Like, if you leave after watching this, if anything you take away, it's just to continue to dream the boldest dreams. Go after them. And then, like, don't be silent about your dreams. Like, speak it out, write it down, everything. I do that. Like, I do that because it's like, I want to show myself. Like. Like, what do I. What do I need to do to get there? Yeah. So, yeah.

[Podcast Host]

It's absolutely, so true. And you know what? For those of you that are watching, don't forget to hit like and subscribe. Tell a friend you already know what to do. But for those of you that are watching, I want you to really think about something that you want to do. I don't care what it is. It could be little, it can be small. But you saw Kendra. Like, she went for a dream. She manifested it, and she is doing it. Same thing for you. Write down three things that you want to accomplish. Send it in. We will broadcast it on the bilfpod. But do yourself a favor and don't let yourself down. Because the only person that's getting in the way of you is you. All right, guys, until next time. Kendra, thank you for coming. It was so much fun.

[Kendra Douglas]

I love them.

[Podcast Host]

This is amazing.

[Kendra Douglas]

You were great. Thanks, girl.