Podcast Summary: Good Follow - Monique Billings Joins The Show, WNBA Predicted Breakout Players + All-Motion Teams & More

Release Date: April 23, 2025

Hosts: Raz Goldongure and Logan Hackett
Guest: Monique Billings, WNBA Veteran, Golden State Valkyries

1. YouTube Milestone Celebration [00:23 - 01:48]

Raz Goldongure and Logan Hackett kick off the episode by celebrating a significant milestone—reaching 2,000 subscribers on their YouTube channel. Raz shares the excitement, "We hit 2,000 subscribers on YouTube. Yes. We swear it was quick, right, Logan?" [00:42]. Logan echoes the gratitude, stating, "Thank you for 2000. We are, trust me, every single person, every one of you matters and means so much."

2. WNBA Breakout Players Predictions [03:08 - 10:10]

Raz's Picks:

• Natasha Cloud (New York Liberty): Raz highlights Natasha's potential impact following the Liberty's loss of key players. "Natasha can bring that grit and offense the team needs" [03:08].
• Shakira Austin (Washington Mystics): Despite previous injuries, Shakira's unique skill set and personality make her a candidate for a breakout season. "I just hope she's able to translate it and stay healthy this season because she has tremendous upside" [03:08].
• Maddie Segrist (Dallas Wings): As the AU champion, Maddie is expected to see increased minutes and production. "She was being talked about potentially for most improved" [06:25].
• Lexi Brown (Seattle Storm): Lexi's resilience and 3-point shooting prowess could significantly benefit the Storm. "She shot about 40% from the three, and I think she can help them find a nice role" [07:09].

Logan's Picks:

• Aaliyah Edwards ("Canadian Queen"): Logan praises Aaliyah's 1v1 skills and confidence. "She'll bring a ton to the table and definitely be able to break out this season" [04:44].
• Alicia Gray: With strong performances in Unravelled and a dynamic duo with Ryan Howard, Alicia is poised for a standout season. "As a guard duo, they're going to be lethal" [05:20].
• Camila Cardoso (Phoenix Sparks): Logan anticipates a comeback for Camila, focusing on her mental preparation and synergy with Rekiya Jackson. "It's almost like she's getting a visualization" [08:49].
• Gabby Williams (Seattle Storm): Known for her defensive prowess, Gabby is expected to make her mark in the WNBA. "I think she can do it this season" [09:02].

3. Interview with Monique Billings [11:08 - 31:17]

Setting Intentions and Personal Journey: Monique Billings, an eight-year WNBA veteran and UCLA alumna, joins the show to discuss her recent transition to the Golden State Valkyries. She emphasizes the importance of being present and joyful amidst life's changes. "I'm just really focused on being joyful through it. And joy comes from being in the present" [11:31].

Balancing Career and Broadcasting: Monique shares her experiences balancing her athletic career with broadcasting. "I've been able to do a lot of different work. I did my first NBA game with the Warriors that was a lot of fun" [17:59]. She highlights the significance of self-care in maintaining this balance: "I'm big on self-care. I'm gonna do something to pour into my cup because that's so important to me" [18:05].

Playing Overseas and Career Decisions: Reflecting on her international experience, Monique discusses the challenges and rewards of playing in 10 countries. She opted to leave her recent stint in China early due to injury concerns, prioritizing her health. "I need to protect my piece essentially" [22:48]. Monique underscores the value of these experiences for personal growth and global connections. "I've been able to travel the world, have connections all over the world. It's been so fruitful" [23:29].

Legacy and Longevity in the WNBA: As Monique enters her eighth season, she reflects on her legacy within the league. "The legacy that I hope to leave on people is that I just worked really, really hard. I was a hard worker and a good person" [27:01]. She emphasizes the importance of impacting others positively and being a role model both on and off the court.

4. WNBA Draft Recap [33:17 - 35:19]

The hosts and Monique discuss the Golden State Valkyries' performance in the 2025 WNBA draft:

• Yoste (Lithuania): A 19-year-old standout making waves overseas.
• Cheyenne Sellers (Maryland): A promising 6'2" guard entering the team.
• Caitlin Chang: Drafted 30th overall, Logan anticipates her significant impact.

Monique adds, "I think all three were great choices. I'm just excited to see how it all comes together" [35:01]. The picks align with the team's identity of hardworking and dedicated players.

5. All-Motion Teams Game [35:26 - 43:29]

Raz, Logan, and Monique engage in a fun game to create their own All-Motion WNBA Teams, focusing on players' off-court visibility and brand presence. Criteria include visibility, brand deals, iconic moments, and overall audience captivation.

Monique's Picks:

• Rekia Jackson: Recognized for her branding and tunnel fits.
• Tiffany Hayes and Neko McKay: Highlighted for their emerging brands and influence.

Logan's Picks:

• Caitlin Clark: Applauded for her business acumen and expanding brand.
• Sidney Coulson and Nafisa Collier: Chosen for their unique appearances and business ventures.

Raz's Picks:

• Dijonay Carrington and Asia Wilson: Noted for their fashion collaborations and significant brand deals.

Monique remarks, "Coach wanted good people who work hard. That's going to be our identity" [35:19].

6. Quick Hits and Headlines [48:22 - 49:30]

• Match Prediction: Washington Spirit vs. Gotham FC. Washington is predicted to win at Rowdy Audi Stadium.

• Trinity Rodman's Injury: Trinity is out indefinitely due to a back injury while in London, marked as a significant loss for the team.

• Paige Beckers Honored: Paige Beckers will have her hometown of Hopkins, Minnesota temporarily renamed in her honor on May 16th.

• Caitlin Clark's Jersey Sales: Caitlin Clark ranks second in joint NBA and WNBA jersey sales, surpassing notable NBA stars like LeBron James and Anthony Edwards. "She got that motion" [49:08].

7. Conclusion [50:07 - 50:17]

Raz and Logan wrap up the episode by expressing gratitude to their guests and listeners. They encourage viewers to subscribe and follow their socials for more content. Monique signs off with appreciation, "Thank you. Love you. Appreciate you."

Notable Quotes:

• Raz on Natasha Cloud: "Natasha can bring that grit and offense the team needs" [03:08].

• Monique on Legacy: "The legacy that I hope to leave on people is that I just worked really, really hard. I was a hard worker and a good person" [27:01].

• Logan on Caitlin Clark: "She has motion in the same way, but she's kind of turning it into a businesswoman role" [38:59].

• Monique on Overseas Experience: "I've been able to travel the world, have connections all over the world. It's been so fruitful" [23:29].

This episode of Good Follow offers an in-depth look into the upcoming WNBA season, featuring expert predictions, a heartfelt interview with Monique Billings, and engaging segments that blend sports insights with personal growth narratives. Whether you're a die-hard WNBA fan or new to the league, this episode provides valuable perspectives and entertaining content.