Born to Win: Olivia Moultrie Isn’t Waiting Her Turn

Summary

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Podcast Summary: Welcome to the Party

Episode: Born to Win: Olivia Moultrie Isn’t Waiting Her Turn
Hosts: Abby Wambach, Julie Foudy, Billie Jean King
Date: April 28, 2026

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Episode Overview

This episode brings together soccer legends Abby Wambach and Julie Foudy, along with tennis icon Billie Jean King, for an energetic and insightful conversation about trailblazing women’s sports moments. The centerpiece is a riveting interview with Olivia Moultrie, the Portland Thorns’ prodigy who turned pro at 13 and forced open doors for the next generation. The hosts and guests unpack what it means to "not wait your turn," how daring athletes change the landscape, and the mentality required to thrive as a young star carrying the weight of breaking barriers.

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Key Segments & Discussion Points

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1. Party Kickoff: Weekend Recap & Sports Updates

[00:49–14:05]

• Hosts' Banter: Julie shares excitement about a new hockey jersey from Hilary Knight, triggering playful jealousy from Abby.
• Angel City Game Recap: Abby attends her first Angel City soccer match of the season, notes increased male attendance, and reflects on diverse, growing crowds.
  • Quote (Abby, 03:09): “We didn’t win because Olivia Moultrie was on the other team...and I feel like now I’m the bad luck charm.”
• Billie Jean King Update: Wins Harvard Gleitman Award for citizenship and leadership. Josh from the team completes his first half-marathon.
• Julie’s Mom Adventures: Julie recounts a chaotic Stagecoach Festival, including handling evacuations and late-night pickups—a nod to the reality of being a "team mom."

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2. Party Starter: Women’s Sports Headlines

[14:06–28:46]

PWHL Playoffs Begin (Pro Women’s Hockey League)

• Playoffs kick off May 12; teams include Montreal Victor, Boston Fleet, Minnesota Frost, Ottawa Charge.
• Unique playoff rule: Top seed picks its opponent.
  • Quote (Billie Jean, 15:34): “I think that’s just so great...the number one seed gets to decide who they want to play.”

NWSL Expansion & Proposed Schedule Flip

• Columbus awarded the 18th NWSL franchise for 2028 ($205M expansion fee).
• League considering moving to fall-spring global soccer calendar. Players push back over weather, facility, and stadium ownership concerns.
  • Quote (Julie, 19:21): “The players’ concerns...facilities aren’t built for winter weather. They don’t own the stadiums; they can’t pivot.”
  • Quote (Abby, 20:23): “If it’s cold, do fans want to come? Fans are coming now…why put a wrench in that?”

NWSL Results

• Highlights: Washington Spirit’s big win, San Diego Wave’s comeback over Denver Summit, standings shakeup.

WNBA TV Schedule & Exposure

• Record 216 nationally-televised games. All Indiana Fever games (Caitlin Clark’s team) featured.
  • Quote (Abby, 23:35): “The W is going crazy…exposure is everything!”

LPGA Chevron Championship

• Nelly Korda wins by five; takes her 17th LPGA title and third major.
• Hosts discuss the tradition of the winner’s Poppies Pond jump.

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3. Interview: Olivia Moultrie—Born to Win

[34:11–76:43]

Introduction & Early Career

• Julie details Olivia’s journey: Committed to UNC at age 11; turned pro at 13; sued the NWSL at 15 to overturn the age restriction; debuted later that year.
• Olivia, now 20, is in her sixth professional season, coming off a career-high 8-goal year.
  • Quote (Julie, 35:26): “She turned pro at 13...sued the NWSL at 15…and now she’s delivering.”

Standing Out and Mentality

• Olivia credits her “mental fortitude, attitude, and discipline” as most important traits.
  • Quote (Olivia, 38:14): “My greatest strength is...my mental preparation for this life…whatever you set your mind to...if you’re willing to go after it every day, create a plan, and execute…that’s just who I am.”
• Discusses her competitive family culture and embracing high expectations.
  • Quote (Olivia, 41:33): “We’re gonna compete over a 3v3 soccer game...the same way we compete playing Uno.”

Breaking Through as a Teen in the NWSL

• Reflections on entering the Thorns at 15:
  • Quote (Olivia, 43:35): “I want to go kick their ass. I want to go out on the field and take their job...with the utmost respect.”
• On facing skepticism:
  • Quote (Olivia, 45:24): “That wasn’t a run of form. That’s who I am...that’s how I am gonna be every single day.”

Advice for Younger Players

• Quote (Olivia, 46:11): “I want them to feel comfortable to be themselves…but respect the people who have gone through it.”
• Importance of supporting new young players vs. isolation she sometimes felt as a pioneer.
  • Quote (Olivia, 48:11): “There were definitely times where I felt like I had to stay quiet...couldn’t say anything...but if you can help the team win, you can help the team win.”

Accountability and High Standards

• Abby challenges Olivia to keep raising the bar:
  • Quote (Abby, 52:02): “I think the best forwards in the world impact games in goals and assists...it is a responsibility and a choice whether you want to carry it.”
• Olivia responds with humility, determination:
  • Quote (Olivia, 54:38): “Damn straight. I’m thinking if I don’t score, we’re not gonna win the game. That’s how I’m going into it.”

Family Support & Lawsuit Context

• Olivia discusses her father’s role as inspiration, coach, and sounding board.
  • Quote (Olivia, 56:38): “He’s like my best friend…his confidence in me at some points was more than my confidence in myself.”
• Julie recaps Olivia’s successful lawsuit that ended the 18-year-old minimum in the NWSL.
  • Quote (Julie, 65:54): “She kept fighting the league…if you’re good enough, you’re old enough.”

Debut Flashback & Big Records

• Emotional recall of her professional debut at 15.
  • Quote (Olivia, 69:19): “Just couldn’t stop moving, legs and arms…almost just, like, this is what I worked for…now I actually get to go have fun.”
• Abby challenges Olivia to target Christine Sinclair’s international goal-scoring record (190+ goals).
  • Quote (Olivia, 69:47): “Why not?...I want to take everything I can get and make happen. Now I’m like, sorry, but I’m stepping into that now.”

The Mental Edge & Joy

• Billie Jean King: “Champions practice their strengths. Everything’s feedback.”
• Olivia on “her box”—how she blocks out outside noise and finds her flow.
  • Quote (Olivia, 71:39): “When I am in my box...nothing going on around me impacts me at all...that’s how I win.”
• Julie’s closing advice: Maintain love of the game amid all pressure and ambition.
  • Quote (Julie, 73:45): “The North Star...is that you are loving what you’re doing...when you love what you’re doing, you get to that next level.”

Hosts’ Takeaways

• Billie (75:20): “Every young athlete should see this. I swear to God, you are amazing.”
• Abby (76:02): “I want to see you keep soaring and setting new standards year over year.”

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• On Mentality:
  • Olivia (38:14): "Whatever you set your mind to...if you’re willing to go after it every day...that’s just who I am."
• On Responsibility:
  • Abby (52:02): "It is a responsibility to carry, and it is a choice whether you want to carry it."
• On Pioneering:
  • Julie (65:54): "She kept fighting the league…if you’re good enough, you’re old enough."
• On Joy:
  • Billie Jean King (74:47): "You gotta love it, man. Else, don't play."
• On Support:
  • Abby (76:02): "If you need anything, just don't hesitate to get in touch...I want to see you keep soaring."

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Timestamps: Important Segments

• Opening banter and party updates: 00:49–14:05
• Women's sports highlights: 14:06–28:46
• Interview with Olivia Moultrie: 34:11–76:43
  • Early career & mentality: 38:14–41:33
  • Entering the pros: 41:33–44:16
  • Advice & accountability: 46:01–54:38
  • On her dad & lawsuit: 56:38–65:54
  • Debut flashback: 69:19–69:47
  • Big goals: 69:47–70:16
  • "Box" mentality: 71:39
  • Closing wisdom: 73:45–74:47

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Conclusion & Takeaways

This episode is a master class in mental toughness, ambition, and advocacy in women’s sports. Olivia Moultrie embodies the next wave of leaders who don’t wait for permission to be great. The hosts’ combined wisdom and encouragement—scientific, practical, and heartfelt—make this a must-listen for any athlete, parent, or fan interested in what it really takes to change the game.

Final Words (Billie Jean King, 75:20): “Every young athlete should see this. I swear to God, you are amazing.”

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Listen if you want: Inspiration, insight into elite athletic mindsets, and a feel-good celebration of women’s sports progress.

Transcript

[A]

I was thinking I was going to be doing this from the moment I stepped on the field at Providence park at 15 years old. About frickin time. And I got a lot more time.

[B]

You're like, this is my sixth season with this.

[A]

Yeah. Literally, I want to go kick their ass. I want to go out on the field and like take their job. I'm not trying to sound crazy on this podcast, but like, damn straight. I'm thinking if I don't score, we're not going to win the game. Like 100%. That's how I'm going into it.

[C]

Young athletes should see this. I'm sweating to God. You are amazing.

[D]

Hold on a second. Yeah, this is where I'm going to challenge you.

[A]

I'm like a little bit speechless cuz that. Yeah, it's like crazy to hear something like that come from your mouth, honestly.

[D]

Attention. The party is about to commence.

[B]

Welcome to the party. What's up, party people? Oh, I forgot. I'm Julie Foudy.

[D]

I'm Abby Wambach.

[C]

Hi. And I'm Billy Jean King.

[D]

What did you forget, Jules?

[C]

What?

[B]

I forgot. I can't believe I forgot this. I love that I'm doing it live.

[C]

It's great. Live.

[B]

Look what I got.

[D]

What is it?

[B]

Can you see it?

[D]

You have a hockey jersey.

[B]

Yes.

[D]

Oh, I'm so freaking jealous.

[B]

Do I don't just have a hockey jersey? I have.

[D]

It's a torrent one. How in the hell did you get that?

[C]

Hillary sent that to you. Night. That's great.

[B]

Hillary Nighter gave it to me when I saw her in Seattle when I did the summit.

[D]

Whoa.

[B]

Isn't that crazy?

[D]

I am so jealous.

[B]

I know. How great is it with the sea captain? Oh, my God.

[C]

Look at that. The big.

[B]

I gave her the biggest hug. I was like, what? She was. I have something for you. She presented it to me. I was like,

[D]

yes.

[B]

I've never had a hockey jersey and Abby wants one so bad. And I have one.

[D]

Oh, I'm so mad.

[B]

All right, get one. I'm sorry, I inter. I interrupted the intro and. What's up, party people? I'm Julie Foudy.

[D]

I'm Abby Wambach.

[C]

I'm Lily Jean King Kinger.

[B]

So great to have you back. You're going to love, love Olivia Moultrie. Because literally, Olivia Moultrie has been making waves since she was a kid. She committed to University of North Carolina, so UNC at the age of 11, y'. All. Back when you could commit at 11 years old. Thankfully, you cannot do that. Anymore. She turned pro at 13. She sued the NWSL at 15 to allow her to play. And then they. And then she made her pro debut later that year, still at 15. So, honestly, I just love this kid so much, which you will see right away. She is earnest and hungry and confident in the best of ways. So she's. She's joining us later in the show. But first, Kinger, Abby got to go to the Angel City game yesterday on Sunday. We're recording this on Monday morning. How was it, Abs?

[D]

Well, we didn't win because Olivia Moultrie was on the other team and Sophia Wilson. Wilson. Yeah, we. We lost at home. And that was sad. That was a sad. It was my first game of the season, so that was amazing. It was fun to be back in. In the stadium and around the fans and everybody just is so fired up, ironically, which I think is such an interesting thing. There were. I noticed that there was. There was like, a. A lot of, like, adult men there, more than I've seen before.

[B]

Oh, really?

[D]

Yeah. Like, there's obviously still so many women.

[B]

I. I feel like we've always had quite a. A. A mix, which is what I love about it. And it is so diverse, which is great, too.

[D]

Diversity, for sure. It just was, you know, and it's sad when you don't win. And I feel like now I'm the. I'm the bad luck charm. So should I keep going to home games? I don't know. I'm not sure.

[C]

Don't you. Don't you just think that we know that we don't have that kind of power? It's like you feel like you're the bad luck charm, but. Yeah, keep going.

[B]

Wait, Kinger. Kinger, we have to talk. Because you don't tell us these things, so we had to do it.

[D]

Where in the world is Billie Jean King?

[A]

Where in the world is Billie Jean King?

[B]

Tell us about the Harvard Gleitzman Award. Am I pronouncing that right?

[C]

Yes, Gleitzman. Yes.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

Well, it's at Harvard, which was fun

[B]

because I never read King, er, getting another award.

[C]

It was fantastic. Hannah, this woman who actually did the, you know, the conversation with me, she was really the star. I said afterwards.

[B]

She was a student there.

[C]

We did a student thing first, which is great. And then we. Then it was open to the public and everybody else on the second go around, we went to a different room. It was quite amazing. And then Christine Brennan was there. She was going to speak after me. I mean, later. They have all these different speakers Christine

[B]

Brennan is a writer for USA Today and also a contributor on ABC and ESPN and all sorts.

[C]

Yeah, she's all over the place.

[D]

What is the award? The Harvard Gleitman Program.

[C]

Citizen. It's like there's different ones, but it's got to do a lot with being a citizen and activist leader. All those things that.

[D]

Awesome.

[C]

So I don't have it with me, though. I didn't. Did we bring it home? Oh, they're shipping it.

[B]

Oh, they're shipping it. Didn't we bring it home? Thank goodness for shipping those.

[C]

Yeah, did that. And then Joshua. Joshua won the. The Brooklyn Half Marathon and he. All you marathoners, we should show you.

[D]

Well done, Josh.

[C]

Oh, God, I gotta get it right. This is. This was awesome. We went over to see him afterwards. It was hilarious. And of course, as soon as everybody left, that was celebrating and he went to sleep.

[D]

For the party people, Josh is on Billy's team. Works a lot with us to. To increase content. Josh is the best.

[C]

Without Josh, I couldn't do this. Are you Josh?

[B]

Good job. Wait, is that his first half?

[C]

Yes, first half.

[B]

Well done.

[D]

Well done.

[B]

I've only done halves. I haven't done a marathon yet. Does he want to do.

[C]

Oh, please. No, he does not.

[B]

I don't think I want to do.

[C]

I don't think it's good for you, personally. I think it's hard on your joints. I think.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

I always tell everybody, run 5Ks.

[D]

Yeah. Speaking of marathons, did you guys see the Kenyan runner who became the first person to break the two hour mark for a freaking marathon? The two hour mark, Sebastian Sawyer.

[C]

You just start running from the time you're born there.

[B]

That was on Sunday at the London Marathon. Okay. I did the math on that. That's if. So he ran it in an hour. 5,000, 930. An hour 59. 31st. To break the two hour mark, first ever person, male or female, you have to run an average mile kinger of 4 minutes and 33 seconds.

[C]

These are like records in a mile. Never mind 26.2 miles.

[D]

Can you imagine? 20. Here's. Here's what's wild, y'. All. He. He eviscerated the world record. Yeah. Okay. The person who came in second also beat the two hour. Really? Yes. Okay.

[B]

Because the feed I was watching, this is crazy. The feed I was watching was like. And can the next guy beat the 2 hour mark? And he's about to cross this finish line. And then the feed. Cut it out. Cut out. I was like, what, are you kidding me?

[D]

Yeah, but he still finished so far behind the canyon, behind Sam. It was. It was incredible. Like I watched it like five times on. On my feed because it's just like. And he was fine. He looked fine in his face. How are you? Fine.

[B]

Oh my God.

[D]

It was incredible. Like he wasn't suffering. 4 minutes and 30. What is it, Jules? 4 minutes and 33 seconds per mile for 26.2 miles. I couldn't do that once.

[B]

Yeah.

[D]

Ever.

[C]

Can you imagine any. Can you imagine the size of his heart?

[D]

Yeah, it's literally.

[C]

It must be just like. Like it's a muscle.

[B]

I know. And it was only his fourth marathon too. What? Yeah.

[C]

Maybe that's why he's not worn out yet.

[B]

I know.

[D]

Wow.

[B]

Okay.

[C]

That's amazing.

[A]

Oh, and

[B]

I spent the weekend enough about you. Let's talk about me. I spent the week.

[D]

Sorry, Jules, I didn't ask.

[B]

Enough about me, let's talk about me.

[D]

Where are you?

[B]

I am out at my parents house in Palm Desert for. At Kinger. You've been here. I feel like. Remember when you came for breakfast? Yeah, yeah, we came over.

[C]

Lana and I came over.

[D]

Yeah.

[B]

And my parents were like, hello, Billie Jean King, nice to meet you.

[C]

They're so cute, man.

[B]

They're always like. You remember when Kinger came for breakfast with Alana? That was amazing.

[D]

Do they call her Kinger?

[B]

Yes, because Mom. Mom is a true fan of the pod. She calls you Kinger now. I like that. So they are like 15, 20 minutes from stagecoach Coachella venue as I was talking about in the POD last week. And so I came out with, there were four other boys and my son and they took over the back room. And I had a girlfriend, I grew up playing soccer with her daughter. And her friends were at a house like a half mile away with. Because those friends we grew up with, right? So the two, the girls group and the boys group, we were. We were carpooling together the whole time. And so I'm going to make this story short because it's really long. The second night, my carpool night, the second night when you're supposed to pick them up, typically it's like, you know, midnight, you're grabbing them and it's a crazy shit show of people. I mean imagine there's 100,000, 80 to 90 they guess for Stagecoach a day. And there's. Everything is cordoned off and blocked off and cops everywhere and. And you don't know where you can get the kids. And you're trying to find them on life 360 and my life. 360 is not working well. They call at, like, 8:30pm and they're like, we're being evacuated from Stagecoach. And I'm like, what? And they're like, you have to come get us. We're getting evacuated. And I thought, you know, emergency evacuation. I'm thinking, as sadly happens too often in this country, I'm thinking shooting active shooter, or like, there was a bomb threat. And so I'm like, oh. So I get in the car and I'm. I'm racing out there. We find out it is because of extreme winds, they shut down. So I take, like, 45 minutes. They walk. Takes me 45 minutes to find them. They walk a good almost hour because they get kicked out in this emergency evacuation on the wrong side of the park, and it's huge. Coachella, they get back in the car after walking in their cowboy boots. The girls, for 40 minutes, they're all cooked.

[D]

And they're.

[B]

And then they get on their phones right when we get in the car, and they're like, it's back up and running.

[A]

I'm like, what?

[D]

What way?

[B]

Yeah. So they want to go back in after I've just spent the last hour grabbing him. So they go back in.

[D]

You're like, you're walking home.

[B]

Well, I said, you're gonna have to Uber, because now everything has been pushed back an hour. So the actual concert's not ending now till 1am I'm like, I'm not coming back for you at 1am I went through this, like, grouchy mom moment. I was like, I am not coming back at 1am and then I looked at the girls, and the girls were like, what do we do? Getting an Uber is so hard and so expensive at that time of night. And I was like, just kidding. I'm coming back. I forgot the girls are with us. I can't leave the girls. The boys I don't care about.

[C]

You guys will be fine.

[B]

What? The girls. I can't do that to my friend. So I had to drive my ass back there. It took me another 40 minutes to get home through the traffic, and then I came home for, like, two hours, and then I drove back.

[D]

Oh, my God.

[B]

We got home that night at 2:15, but they were like, it was the best decision ever. Pit bull was on fire. Fire.

[D]

Oh, my.

[C]

Welcome to motherhood. You're. You did good for your babies. That's nice. You're good, Mommy.

[B]

Am I? Or am I just stupid Mommy? No, I did not. I didn't do any drinking. All Weekend, of course. And I'm the designated driver. And I'm like, am I? I'm not doing this again. This is what I know. And I had the talk with Declan when he was like, can't wait to come back next year. I was like, listen, you come back, okay? One, we're gonna get mom and dad out of here. Cause that's too much for them with you guys here. Two, you're paying for all of it. So I will feed you. Yes, but that's it. You're gonna get a shuttle. I'm not doing this again.

[A]

There is no way.

[C]

Sounds like Coach Foudy to me.

[B]

Yeah. I was like, I am putting down.

[D]

I love that you said that you'll feed them. We don't do that. If you want to go do something outside of that, we'll feed you here. But if you want to leave here that you're on your own.

[B]

Oh, no, no, no. I only feed them here. I brought like barrels of food so mom didn't have to. I've been cooking all friggin weekend for the boys. That's another thing. It's like non stop. They're like, did you have fun? And I was like, fun? No, I did not have fun. Abby. Abby. Literally when we got on, she was like, was it fun? I was like, not fun at all.

[A]

No.

[D]

No.

[B]

I've been cooking for teenagers all week, keeping them alive. Because if they don't eat before they go, they don't really don't eat much there because it's so expensive.

[C]

Can they make their own food before they go?

[B]

Yes, but. Yes, but, but too damn nice. Billy is the thing.

[C]

God.

[B]

Anyways, okay. Let's get to the party starter, shall we?

[D]

Yeah.

[B]

The highlights, shake ups and headlines. You'll want to celebrate this week in women's sports. This party starter is brought to you by Ally the bank. That is your Ally. Okay, you guys, you got it. Topic one.

[D]

Yeah.

[B]

Okay.

[D]

PWHL playoffs are starting.

[B]

Yes.

[D]

Excited. The pw. The PWHL playoffs are here. Jules. Billy. The regular season wrap this weekend with playoffs with the playoffs set to begin the week of May 12th. Okay, so the four teams to make it through are. Montreal, Victor. I hope I'm saying that right.

[B]

I think I am Victor.

[D]

Boston Fleet, Minnesota Frost and the Ottawa Charge. Okay, so grabbing the final spot is what the Ottawa charged it.

[A]

Yeah.

[D]

The Ottawa Victoria secured the spot on the final day of the regular season, Saturday, April 25 with a 2 to 1 shootout victory over the Seattle Torrent. And you may notice that Julie's got a torrent jersey on. And I don't know if you saw online, Jules, but Brandi Carlisle dropped the first puck and it happened to be their pride night as well. She's great.

[B]

That's awesome.

[D]

The incredible, immense amount of cheers that like, it was so loud in there. Yeah, I can't wait to talk to her about it because do you know

[C]

what's great about the pwgl though? Have you ever heard like the top team decides who they want to play?

[B]

Yeah, I love that.

[C]

I think that's just so great.

[B]

So the number one seed gets to decide of the three and four of

[C]

the other three who they want to play. And Montreal is number one. So they get to choose. And they chose to play the Minnesota Frost. And quite. You know, the Minnesota team has won the last two championships. This is only our third season.

[B]

Yeah.

[C]

So that's interesting. You know, you want to unseat them, but. And Minnesota's going for their third straight, so it's, it's. Oh, I can't wait. And you know, Heisey's on the Frost show. You know, Kendall Coyne, Kelly Panek, those guys. And then Montreal's got Poulin. Poulin is so nice.

[B]

She's so good.

[C]

When the league started, she came over to Lonnie Marie.

[B]

Felipe Poulet.

[C]

Yeah, she's great. But she took her. What do they call them, helmets, Hats, whatever. Helmet off. And she shook each of our hands and said, thank you for helping get this right. Now that is unusual. So she's got a special place in my heart and Stacy and all these guys. But it's just, it's amazing what's happened. And then winning the Olympics and seeing them. These are the players that were playing. 39 of them. I mean, so great. Anyway, for me personally, I am so thrilled Ilana is over the moon. So we're just. And we're probably going to have more teams next year. We're up to eight. We'll probably have more.

[B]

Yeah. That's awesome. I love it.

[D]

All right.

[B]

I love that.

[D]

All right, you guys. So we can all watch all the action starting May 12th on YouTube. And their regional sports networks are also going to be airing some of the games with the finals being broadcast nationally on ion first year. So exciting. I mean, women's sports are here to stay. But check, check out these games if, if you want to see something that is just phenomenal. Watching these women play hockey is just something that is so cool.

[B]

All right, topic number two. We're going to soccer. And good news. Nwsl Speaking of growing, Kinger, they keep on growing. It awarded its 18th franchise to Columbus, which will begin play in 2028 for a record. Drum roll please. $205 million exc expansion fee, a massive jump. That 205 million is nearly double Denver's 110 million expansion fee in 2025. Remind you that Angel City, their expansion fee was 2.5 million in 2021. Right? So that 2000. Yeah, 2.5 million. This is 205. So the ownership group, which is Haslam Sports Group, Nationwide and the Edwards family have already invested at the WNBA league level and also own Cleveland Browns, Columbus Crew and have a stake in the Milwaukee Bucks. Okay. Also, wow, big news in nwsl. NWSL proposed schedule flip.

[D]

Yeah.

[B]

So this is an interesting one, y', all, because the National Women's Soccer League is seriously considering flipping its schedule and going on what most of global soccer is on this fall to spring calendar with a board vote expected soon. The mls, so the men's professional league is actually implementing that change. They're flipping their calendar next year. But what's interesting about all of this is, and this was in an article reported by, by espn, Jeff Kasuf last week, the NWSL Players Association, a majority of the players don't want it. They don't want to make the switch. Right.

[C]

Players do not ever want to change anything. By the way, you guys, yeah, I've been through this and I'm sure you've been through it, through this, through the decades. They hate change. They think they hate change.

[B]

Well, here's the issue though. So here's. So it's driven obviously by bigger business schools, like alignment with the global football calendar, media rights growth. And the league side has said, look, the upside is clear. We're sinking with the European calendar. It's cleaner for our transfers, fewer international conflicts because the NWSL goes dark as they have these FIFA windows. But here's the players concerns Kinger is that these stadiums, one, they don't own them and two, they're not built for winter weather. So they have these inconsistent facilities. So because they don't own the stadiums, they don't have the ability to pivot, nor do they have an alternative for winter weather. So they're basically saying like, okay, but you have to get the facilities up to a standard where we own them or we have the ability to actually have a backup plan with the inclement weather. And that is a huge concern that they're not there yet.

[D]

So I don't sense it's going to be Cold. And like here's the other thing. Like if it's cold, do fans want to come? Do fans want to come? And that's part of the, the thing that's happening right now. Like the fans are coming. So why are we gonna put a wrench in that? You know?

[C]

Yeah. Also they're used to the timing. It's a psychological thing. You get used to certain when things are.

[B]

Yeah. So that's. I don't know. And if the board votes and passes it while also knowing that the players aren't for it, as we saw happen with the high impact player ruling. So it's gonna be interesting.

[D]

It will be.

[B]

We're gonna, we're gonna pay attention to that. Okay. A couple.

[C]

I gotta find out some more information on that one. You guys can tell me off camera.

[B]

What's that?

[D]

Your phone is dinging.

[B]

I know. I can't get it to shut up. I put it on do not disturb. Hold on, just tell me.

[C]

I think people can handle it, don't you? Everybody out there. Yeah, we know if it's ringing, it's Julie's phone. It's all her fault.

[B]

You know what? I forgot to turn the actual phone on. Do not disturb. I think. And I'm gonna just click that top button.

[D]

We should have some sort of sign or noise that, that Jack puts into the show that every time your phone dings that like, it's like boing.

[C]

When I see this, I just imagine you two as players. It's hilarious.

[B]

Okay, couple results from the weekend because NWSL was back in action. Washington Spirit beat the Kansas City Current. So the two top teams from last year which have struggled mightily as we've just started this season. So so far, Washington Spirit beat Kansas City Current 4 nil. So. And they were the, as I said, the top two teams from last year. So in front of a sold out crowd at of 19,215 at Audi Field, it's just Washington's second win of the season, but clearly a statement. One, Lacy Santos got two goals. Trinity Rodman got her for first goal of the season and she got an assist. And the Spirit now have three straight clean sheets. Okay, San Diego versus Denver. The Wave, which has gone unbeaten in the last five games, came back from being down to zero to beat Denver Summit, the new expansion team, 3 to 2 with three second half goals. Rookie Leah Godfrey led the turnaround with a goal and an assist while captain Kennedy Wesley. Y' all remember Kennedy Wesley scored a goal and an assist in the Japan game. The last Japan game. She's having herself two weeks. Kenny Wesley out of the equalizer. And the winner came off an own goal. So Denver is in it though. That's the top team. San Diego extends that club record win streak to five. They are top of the table. Portland in second, Utah in third, Seattle in fourth and Angel City even with a crushing loss last night and two losses actually back to back, they're in fifth with a game in hand.

[D]

All right, we're going to move back over to the wnba. Jules, you mentioned a little bit by Ion a little bit ago, the WNBA TV schedule has dropped.

[B]

Yeah.

[D]

And y', all, the W is going crazy right now. First, obviously with the new cba, money is flowing, players are getting their the pay that they deserved. And then now this. A record breaking TV schedule that puts the league front and center all season long. Now Listen to this. 216 nationally televised games, the most in league history, which is so important. We three know this exposure is everything. And then all of The Indiana Fever's 44 games are going to be on national TV. I think there might be just a little excitement around.

[C]

I wonder why that. Is there a player called Caitlin Clark on that team?

[D]

Yeah, but she hasn't played a regular season game since July 15th. So it's, it is going to be exciting. And then obviously the NCAA stars are driving a lot of the excitement with, with the Dallas Wings. With 36 national games being televised, people are excited to see Paige and Az Fudd reunited in, in the backcourt. And then the games are just about everywhere. Right, so NBC back for the first time since 2002. Plus ESPN, ABC, CBS, Paramount, plus Prime Video, ION, NBA TV. And this is all happening opening day, May 8th on ION. That triple header that Julie was talking about, y', all, it's happening.

[C]

We are, we are getting so excited.

[D]

The attention and the nationally televised coverage we deserve. Finally.

[B]

All right, topic number four. LPGA Chevron Championship, formerly the Dinosaur. I just wanted to do a full circle moment from our masters rant from last week or two weeks ago and give you an update on the Chevron Championship which as we were talking about in that master's rant, used to be the dinosaur at Mission Hills Country Club in Palm Desert. So Nelly Korda won the 2026 Chevron Championship at 18 under, cruising to a five stroke victory for her 17th LPGA win and third career major. It was the tournament's first largest margin of victory in 18 years. At 27. Korda has now reclaimed the world number one ranking. We got to get her on the Party, won her second chevron title, and became one of only three LPGA players in the last 50 years to win a major after leading every round, which is really cool.

[D]

Her.

[C]

Her technique is. I mean, I don't know anything about golf, but I love watching her hit the.

[B]

Yeah, she's got a beautiful swing. And then, of course, Kinger, she capped it off with the tournament's tradition. Winners jump into what they call the new Poppies Pond. You might recall Poppy's Pond at Mission Hills. Everyone would jump into. I will say the new Poppy's Pond. Looks like a really nice. I didn't see a wide shot of it.

[C]

Looks like clean.

[B]

Nice swimming pool is much cleaner. I go for the grungy old Poppy's Pond because. Abby, did you catch anything from jumping into that? I bet not. See, it was fine. Abby jumped into it. Kinger. Did you know that?

[C]

No.

[D]

Yeah.

[C]

How was it? What's the temp? What's the temperature?

[D]

I played in a Pro AM a long time ago, and our team won, and so we jumped in, and we have a video for it. So hopefully we. Our team will play it here.

[B]

You're running it, I'm sure. Yeah.

[D]

Yeah. And what I want people to know is that I. Oh, here I am. Here we go.

[C]

So you like your golf, huh?

[D]

Oh, yes.

[B]

Is that you running up there?

[D]

Oh.

[B]

Oh. You don't look like.

[D]

It's pretty clean. It's pretty clean.

[C]

Oh, that makes.

[A]

Clean.

[D]

Yeah. But like the very good soccer player that I, you know, I didn't. I didn't at the time have two pairs of golf shoes. I just had one. Yeah. And I was afraid that I was gonna ruin them, so I took my golf shoes off before I jumped in.

[B]

Good idea, because back then, you couldn't afford another pair.

[C]

You got that right.

[D]

Seriously, I couldn't. I was scared about paying my mortgage. I didn't know what that. What that. What I was going to do.

[B]

So the jump into Poppy's Pond began at Mission Hills Country Club, which, as I was saying, is where the Dinah Shore course was in Rancho Mirage, Palm Desert. Same thing. Rancho Mirage. Amy Alcott started the tradition in 1988 in Poppy's pond. And then, as we were talking about with the Masters conflicting with that same weekend as the Dinah Emission Hills, the tournament moved in 2023 to the club at Carlton woods in the Woodlands, Texas. So they built a new lake and dock to continue the tradition, where Nelly Korda also jumped in, which was cool to see. So that is a wrap on our party starter, and thanks To Ally for sponsoring this segment. Ally is more than a bank, and their do it right approach helps customers unlock their economic potential and guides their efforts. As a leading sponsor in women's sports. Just like us, Ally believes that when women in sports win, we all have a reason to party. Ally, bank member, fdic. Up next, if you can inspire Abby to make this post, we gots to get you to the party.

[D]

Never in my career did I have a touch as successful as this first touch.

[B]

Olivia.

[C]

Oh, my gosh.

[D]

It is world class Chef's kiss. Love you, sister.

[B]

Abs.

[D]

What's.

[B]

Are you getting that feeling that there's a big tournament happening?

[D]

Oh, yeah. The FIFA World cup this summer. It's coming. I can't wait.

[B]

I know. And I just like the. The. The feeling you get when you realize, like, it's around the corner and I get like this. Like, it almost. It takes a lot for me to want to play again, but I get like, oh, my gosh.

[C]

I miss that so much.

[B]

I don't know if you get that. Do you get that?

[D]

Yeah, I don't. I don't get that I want to play again. I think, especially when it's the Men's World Cup, I think maybe we can win it. Maybe. Question mark. We can. We can do really well in this go around. I, like, have high hopes. High hopes is what I have.

[B]

I like that. I like that optimism. You know, we have shown the men's side that we have our moments, that's for sure, where we're like. I'm like, damn, okay. Yeah, we're good.

[D]

I'm the eternal optimist, though. So, you know, I just want to do well enough that people get fired up, you know? Like, I want the fans and this country to just get that fired up feeling that I know that we as athletes feel, you know?

[B]

Yeah. So with the FIFA World cup coming, here's the thing. It's the perfect chance to list your space on Airbnb and earn some extra income if you live in a host city. So this summer, as we know, fame fans from around the world will travel to experience the biggest event in the world, the FIFA World Cup 26. You can be part of that excitement by opening your doors and hosting fans in your home. If you've ever thought about hosting, this summer is a great time as we welcome FIFA World cup fans. Your home might be worth more than you think. Find out how [e-mail] host today's show

[D]

is proudly supported by Apple Gift Card. The smart and versatile gift for every Graduate, graduate in your life.

[B]

Perfect timing for you.

[D]

We have a graduation coming up in our family, and it's been making me think a lot about what this moment actually represents. It's not just a milestone. It's this real transition into a new phase of life. That's what I love about Apple gift card, Jules. It gives the graduates the power to decide what they need, okay, Whether it's something to help them get set up or tools for learning, or even just a way to relax and recharge. I think of myself as a great gift giver, but this gift really is the one that people and oftentimes teenage graduates respect the most because this is giving somebody a gift to their journey. And it says, I trust you to choose what's next. Visit applegiftcard.apple.com to find the perfect graduation gift today. So, Jules.

[B]

Yes.

[D]

When was the last time your shopping delivery service really delivered? Because, you know, nothing says chaos like opening the door, expecting oat milk, and somehow ending up with almond. Yeah, it's annoying. It might just be an ingredient, but getting the items that you need to operate and live well during the week is really important. Right?

[B]

Details. Details matter.

[D]

And that is how I realized shoppers with Shipt are no ordinary shoppers because they know that no order is ordinary. I. I can actually feel the care jewels that they put behind what's in my cart. Not only will they never confuse parsley for cilantro, but that's a big one.

[B]

And that's not easy, by the way.

[D]

I know it matters.

[B]

That is an easy thing to do.

[D]

This matters because I don't like cilantro and it is important that I get parsley. But really, they actually check in with you? They actually check in with me multiple times before they check out to see if I need anything else. The last minute. Did I forget paper towels? Need one more thing for dinner? They've got me. And I just think it's like, it feels so thoughtful and personal, like someone is literally shopping. Like a friend of mine is shopping.

[B]

Yeah.

[D]

That I would be texting with.

[B]

Yeah. It's kind of like my husband. He does the same thing. He'd be like, okay, I've got. I'm leaving. I'm about to check out. Yeah, I love that they're like, what do you need?

[D]

Exactly? Plus, shoppers with Shipt shop your favorite stores, including your local grocery store, Petsmart and Lowe's. So whatever kind of day you're having, they can meet you in it. Try shipt free for 14 days. Download the app or visit shipt.com that's s h-ippt.com terms apply.

[B]

And now, party people, to the partiest part of our party. Today we've got a young player who didn't just grow up in the game, she forced her way into it. She turned pro at 13 and started training with the Portland Thorns. Sued the NWSL at 15 for a right to play in the league and won, eventually setting a new precedent for younger players who had long argued, if I am good enough, I am old enough. Debuted professionally in NWSL at 15 years old and now she's delivering three goals and an assist through the first six games this season. She's coming off a career high eight goal season in 2025 with the Portland Thorns for whom at 20 years old. Party people. She just started her sixth season at 20 years old. Come on. All while contributing and making a name for herself on the US Women's national team. And of course doing the same with broadcasting recently stepping straight into calling games with our self anointed Good Vibes FC broadcast team that called the World Sevens Football Tournament last December. And in Miami. You know her, you love her. Olivia Moultrie, welcome to the party.

[D]

Welcome, Olivia. We are so happy you're here.

[A]

That was an unprecedented intro, Julie. That was crazy.

[B]

Thank you.

[C]

She's the best at the intros and other things.

[B]

Hi, Liv. How are you?

[A]

I'm good. How are you guys?

[B]

How dare you beat up on our Angel City last night? I told you to go easy on them. You did not listen.

[A]

I quote, responded, no promises, Julie. So I can't be held responsible.

[D]

I do have a question. Is your brain okay? You took a headshot at one point.

[B]

Yeah, I saw that.

[A]

Yeah. No, we're good, we're good. She's pretty rock solid up there. So, yeah, we have a little bruise, but we're feeling pretty good.

[D]

Good, good, good, good, good.

[B]

Those always make me nervous too. Those headers when you come in and out. And how about Sophia Smith? Sorry, I always do that. Darn Sophia. Gosh, it's so hard for me to get her new name.

[D]

Okay, it was her name.

[B]

Scoring her first goal. That was amazing.

[A]

I know. Sorry, Julie again. I know she's not sorry though, because yeah, like she said she needed that one one. But I'm so happy for her and I think that's just like a weight off her shoulders because, I mean, we all know what she can do. It's not like it's a surprise, but I think it just felt nice for her to like. Okay, it's done, it's over. I don't have to think about it anymore. And, like, now I can just kind of resume normal programming. But, yeah, really happy for her.

[B]

So, abs. Abs and Kinger, you. You couldn't probably see it, but she got emotional, too. You could see it on tv. It was so cute. It's like, you know how much that meant. And I saw that Gigi was in. In the stands with. With Mike, her husband. Yeah. So I guess.

[D]

Yeah.

[A]

Well, Julie agrees. He's happy for the goal.

[C]

So we are right on schedule.

[D]

Yeah. As soon as Sophia scored, it was right at the end of the game. And I like to get out of there to miss the traffic to get home. And I was like, come on, we're pushing for the equalizer. And she scores. And I looked at Glenn and I said, let's go.

[C]

She had a baby, right?

[D]

She had a baby. Yep.

[C]

It's unbelievable.

[B]

That was her first goal back, Kinger, since maternity, right?

[C]

Yeah. Leave. Yeah. It's fantastic. Yeah, it's good. We're finally figuring that out for women's sports. Geez. Please. Of course they're going to have babies. Hello. That's really good. I want to know about Olivia.

[D]

Can.

[C]

Livia, can I ask, because I'm the odd person out here. I didn't play great.

[B]

Ask away Kinger.

[C]

In fact, we didn't really have it in our country then, really. But I just want to know what your strength is. I always ask everybody this, but I can't help it. Like, what makes you so great?

[A]

Oh, this is.

[C]

What's the one thing I feel like, or more than one.

[A]

You know how when you look at yourself, you think about, like, a bunch of things that are your strengths? But whenever I talk to my family, they're like, no, your greatest strength is, like, your mental fortitude, attitude. Like, your discipline in what you do is kind of. I mean, for them, they see it every day, so, like, they get the ins and outs. But, like, I think that at the end of the day, like, yes, there is physical attributes involved. Yes, there is work ethic. Yes, there is, like, talent. And obviously, I've been blessed to be in a lot of great situations that I've been able to take advantage of. But I do think at the end of the day, my just, like, mental preparation for this life, like, the things that I have gone through to kind of set me up for the things that I now experience, like, I don't know if that will ever or could really ever be recreated in the way it happened for me. And I just think there is like every situation that I put myself in up into this point to basically just be as prepared for every uncomfortable moment that you can face. Like my dad used to say, the more uncomfortable moments I put you in now, the more comfortable they're gonna feel when you do it later. And I kind of just grew up with like that as the mindset and whatever you set your mind to, truly like you can accomplish that if you're willing to go after it every day, if you're willing to create a plan and you're willing to go like execute that plan and do whatever it takes. And so that's just like, that's just who I am and how I grew up. And I just didn't live in a world where like, yeah, not that failure was an option but that I was okay with that. Like, yes, I've had moments of failure, but that was always just a reason, reason to get better. Like I was never satisfied with less than what I wanted. Which at the end of the day is to be the best player in the world someday and be talked about like that. And I think like my confidence in my ability and the work that I've put in is what sets me up to be in those situations. So I think yeah, just the mental side of my game I would say is the most important and something that's talked about a lot but at the same time like overlooked a little bit too because we look at like what's just, just done out on the field and not what kind of happens behind the scenes a lot. But there's definitely been a lot that I've needed this little guy to like keep me in check for.

[D]

So I think that that's so interesting because in my, in my analysis of my career that is exactly what I would say about myself. Like there's like the, the physical components, the tactical, the scoring goals, like the, the running, sprints, the traveling, all of it. But how you interface with the mentality of it is I think the differentiator for. Because so many players in the league, you know, you're all good enough to be there, what is going to be that difference maker? Do you think that that's just something you were born with or have you been training for? Because I can imagine at 15 years old when you step into the Thorne system you're probably like nervous, you probably don't have that kind of confidence quite yet, but you have a confidence playing against other 15 year olds. But when you're playing against 25 year olds at 15, how do you. How do you curate that kind of confidence in a system where you're. You're the smallest, you're the youngest, you might not be the most talented yet.

[A]

Yeah, I think there's two parts to it, for sure. I think to some extent, I was just born with it. Like, whatever. That kind of IT factor that people talk about, where there's just, like, this competitive type A, like, literally, I will not lose. I will not allow myself to. Like, I. Whatever that is, I definitely have that. So I think that's the start of it. I think the other part is really how I was raised and the situations that I was put in and how competition was looked at in my family. Like, we're gonna Compete over a 3v3, whatever soccer game the same way we're gonna compete playing Uno upstairs in the kitchen. Like, that's my family's. Like, yeah. So in that way, like, born and raised in, like, we just look at competition this way, and it's normal. It's not scary. It's not something we avoid. Like, we embrace that fully. So I think that's absolutely part of it. Going into the thorns environment, I mean, at that point when I finally was able to play at 15, obviously had been in the environment for a couple years, and I think, to be completely honest with you, when I first got there, like, obviously I knew the talent that I was walking into with that team. I mean, like, sync, Lindsay Tobin, Becky got there eventually. Emily Sawn. It was that. So, like, I knew what I was walking into, but at the same time, like, when I got on the field, I felt this sense of, like, I might not be there yet, but I will be. Like, I absolutely know that I am capable of this. And, like, what these players have done, I want to do that. So I felt this sense of, I want to learn from them, but, like, for lack of a better term, I want to go kick their ass. I want to go out on the field and, like, take their job, you know? And so that's how I was looking at it, and with the utmost respect. Like, I respect everything you've done, but, like, that's what I want, you know? You have what I want. And so that's how I was looking at it. So even if I wasn't quite there yet, in my mind, like, I was, because I knew what I was capable of. And so people probably, like, think that's a little bit delusional, but I knew what I could do. And so when I was in it, like, yeah, I might not have been ready at 15. But I sure as hell was telling Mark Parsons I was ready at 15. Like, I was like, no, I should be out there. I know what I can do for this team. So yeah, I've always lived in that state. And as I've gotten better as a player, obviously the results have started to come in the way that I've always known they have. People are like, oh my gosh, she's turned a corner. Like she's changed something. I'm like, I was thinking I was going to be doing this from the moment I stepped on the field at Providence park at 15 years old. So like for me, I'm like, yes, it's finally happening. Like, it felt like it took forever to me. And everyone else is like, oh my gosh, she's only 20. Like, I'm like, about frickin time. And I got a lot more time.

[B]

You're like, this is my sixth season with.

[A]

Yeah, literally.

[D]

That's amazing.

[B]

I know. When you, we saw you, we do with the TNT broadcasting group before U.S. women's national team games, we pull a few players on match day minus one. The day before game we call match day minus one. And we pull them to the side. And it's not for broadcast, it's not for. We're not running any cameras. We're just chatting with the players to get some background for the game. And Olivia told this great story. And Liv, I'll tell you, when you said, I don't even know if you remember, we were talking about how well you were doing already out of the gates with, with Portland, of course, with three goals and an assist. And you said, yeah, you know, people last year were saying, oh, she had a really good run of form at the end of the season. And you said, that wasn't a run of form. That's who I am. And it wasn't just, you know, this moment I was having, that's how I am gonna be every single day. And all of us after, we're like, oh my God, I love that confidence so much. So we heard it there too, which is so good.

[A]

Yeah, I think sometimes it's scary for people to say things like that. Right. But. And that doesn't guarantee that like I'm going to score every game or I'm going to have an assist every game. But like, that's my outlook on how I can influence my team and my team's ability to win. And so if that's how I'm approaching every game, that gives us the best chance for me to have my best Performances which then allow my team to succeed at a greater level. So I think, yeah, I'm going to look at it that way always. And hopefully that yields winning for us.

[C]

Well, what would you. What would you tell a 14 or 15, 16 year old coming into the league now, now that you've experienced this, what would you tell them? How good you.

[B]

Great question, Kinger.

[A]

Yeah, that is a good question. I kind of have been waiting a little bit for my team to, like, get someone super young. I'm like, I've been that person forever.

[C]

Let.

[A]

Let us bring a new one in so I can do the other side of it. And I think there's definitely this sense for me where, like, I want to be able to kind of bring someone under my wing because not that. Not that I needed someone to do that for me or like, that I missed out on that. I think in some ways I had that, but at the same time it was just very unfamiliar for everyone. So I don't think it's like anyone's fault necessarily that that didn't happen because people just didn't know how to handle that situation a little bit, which is completely valid. But, like, knowing what it is like to be on the other side, where it's just you're kind of walking in every day and like, like, I am a pretty outgoing person. And I would say I naturally, like, if you guys can tell. And I would say I naturally have, like, leadership qualities and things like that that are just like, part of my personality. It's not even like, I'm trying, they just kind of are there. But when I would go in every day, it was like, head down to the point, get to work, like, stay quiet. And so that was like, fighting a lot of my nature for a while. And as I mentioned earlier, that kind of came out in the mentality of like, well, I'm coming to take your job on the field. Like, so. But it was with silence, you know, it was like I had. I couldn't say anything. And sometimes I would have moments where, like, it would slip out, like someone would say something to me and I would just be like, moments of, like, competitive, like, fervor, basically, that was hard for me to tamp down a lot of the time. And so to like, to ask the question of, like, what would I want for somebody who was young and coming in, like, I would want them to feel comfortable, to be themselves. I do think there's an aspect of, like, you need to respect the people who are there and who have been there and who have Gone through it. So I definitely don't think it's like speaking out of turn, but, like, being able to unleash who you are. Because at the end of the day, for me, like, I did it because I felt like I could affect winning. I did it because I felt like I could make the team better. And if we can bring someone in, I mean, that was the whole thing, right? If you're good enough, you're old enough. If we can bring someone in who can influence our team's ability to, like, be great and to win, then I want them to be the best version of themselves. And if they're the best version of themselves, then they can bring the. Like, we're all bringing the. The level up for each other. And so, yeah, I just get this sense of, like, I would want them to believe in who they are, and they would find their own path. Right. And there's different ways to do that, but I wouldn't want them to feel like they were stuck in a corner and didn't know what to do, because there were definitely times. Times where I felt like, okay, I just need to, like, stay quiet and. And not say anything, you know, and be out there on the field. Like, that's where I can express myself. So I definitely think there's a level of, yeah, you're young and you're figuring it out, and you don't need to be, like, talking every five seconds on the field and bossing people around. But at the same time, like, we're all teammates. And I think there can just be a level of, yeah, if you can help the team win, then you can help the team win. So I would just, like the opportunity. Opportunity to kind of bring someone in with that. And if they got a little out of turn, then I would. I would set them straight. And I think that's important, too. You know, that's part of, like, the team culture. And I think that can be done in a healthy way and in a positive way that brings you closer as opposed to, like, beating somebody down. And I think I had to fight through that a little bit because I definitely had a couple times with certain people where it was definitely more of the trying to beat me down as opposed to the bring me up. And I think it made me better at the end of the day. And I. I would not say that I'm like, sorry that that happened, or it's like some sad story like, that made me who I am, but if I got the opportunity to do it, there are definitely things that I would do. Differently for somebody who was in the situation that I was in.

[D]

Yeah, of course. I have a question for you because I know you scored three goals and an assist in these first six games. I want to know about your psychology on when you don't score or assist in a game. Like, what is. What is your process after the game? And I will have a follow up for you after you answer.

[A]

Okay?

[D]

Okay.

[A]

I think it's changed a little bit over the years because when I first started playing, like, I didn't have the same expectation for myself that I do now. You know, I didn't walk into every game being like, no, I actually should walk away with a goal or an assist or being pretty dang close, like, because that's just how dangerous I can be. And so before, it was like, absolutely looking at my game as a whole. Like, how did I influence defensively? What did I do when I got the ball? Did I make the most dangerous decision? Like, did I aid my team in creating chances and winning the game? So I definitely like to look at my game as a whole, period, in terms of just like, how did I impact in the moments that were available to me? And if I didn't do what I wanted to do, how could I change that? I'm very analytical when I watch the game, and I like to kind of rehash every moment. I'll be like, hitting the spacebar, like, pause, pause, pause. Playing it frame by frame. Like, so I like to do that. I think now that my expectations are so much higher than they've ever been. Like, there are moments where I'm like, dang, I'm kind of pissed off. But then I'm like, if we won the game, like, that's the most important thing, number one. So, like, there are always times for me to re watch and be like, I could have done better at this, or this is a moment I can take advantage of. But, like, if we walk away with a win, number one, like, I'm proud of my team, and we did what we needed to do to whether it was pretty or not. So then after that, I can kind of look back and get better. I definitely think there are moments of I want more from that. But I think my challenge to myself always is like, but it just has to be a way for me to grow. It cannot be something that's dwelled upon, because if I create this pressure for myself, if I have to get a result, every game that's never gonna, like, it's not gonna happen. It truly is unrealistic. The best Forwards in the world are not scoring a goal every game. And hold on a second. Yeah, this is.

[D]

This is where I'm gonna follow up with you, because this is where I'm gonna challenge you. I don't believe that that's true. I believe that the best forwards in the world impact games in goals and assists, and I think that you can do that. And so that is where I'm going to challenge you, because I think that your kind of confidence, because it's a very humble approach, like you have. You have a kind of confidence that is so powerful that there is another level in you, Liv. Like, because I was watching you play yesterday, and I was like, oh, I want her to be a little bit more selfish. I want her to have to carry the responsibility that if I don't score, my team is going to lose. That is the mentality when I went on the field that if I don't score, my team is going to lose. And in fact, on the national team, every game that I lost, I did not score. And so it's like. And of course I understand, like, not every forward is going to score and assist in every game, but sure as shit, I. Even though when we won, I would say publicly winning is the most important thing, but privately, I was pissed. And I want that to be you. I want. Because I want our Women's national team to have the kind of leadership that I think that you will embody, and you are starting to really embody where it is. Is your job. Like, you are taking the responsibility, and I'm giving. I'm. I'm being a player that knows what it feels like to have the pressure and responsibility of scoring goals. It takes a special kind of person to carry that. And I feel like you're one of the first people that I've spoken to since I've retired that is like, yes, give me that responsibility. So I'm just saying that it is a responsibility to carry, and it is a choice whether you want to carry it. So whether you score every game or not is irrelevant then. And I just want you to know that, like, you've got it, kid. And you have the ability to play on our Women's national team and score every single game. And maybe the games were a little easier when I played, but I still don't think that that's the barrier.

[A]

Well, first, thank you. That's, like, a huge compliment, and that means, like, a ton. I'm, like, a little bit speechless because that. Yeah, it's, like, crazy to hear something like that come from your mouth, honestly. And I.

[C]

No pressure.

[A]

No, that doesn't exist, Billy.

[C]

Good. I know you like pressure.

[A]

Yeah, I.

[C]

Give me the ball.

[A]

The other thing that's funny about that is, like, there's my mindset, and then there's kind of what people would consider reality. And me and my dad talk a lot, and I'm like, like, yeah, but then there's my reality, and, like, whatever I decide my reality is, like, that can be the truth. And so when you were talking about that, I was kind of like. I mean, yeah, I'm not trying to sound crazy on this podcast, but, like, damn straight. I'm thinking, if I don't score, we're not gonna win the game. Like, 100. That's how I'm going into it. I don't create the goals. Like, it's. They're not. Like, I need to do that. That is my responsibility for my team. Like, a hundred, one hundred. Do I feel that? Absolutely. And I think then I have to watch it back. And sometimes it's like, all right, realistically, are there things that I can change? Blah, blah, blah. But at the same time, like, hell, no. I know what I'm capable of, and I know who I can be. And, like, I know it actually can happen every game if I can make it happen every game. And that's, I guess, trying to find, like, the epitome of who I am and my peak. Like, that's who I want to be, you know? So I'm working towards that. Hopefully it'll come sooner rather than later.

[D]

But you know what? I. When I. When I. When I didn't score. Sorry, Billy. I just.

[C]

No, no, you. You're the authorities. I'm not.

[D]

When I didn't score, I made it a point to verbally apologize to my team after every game. Sorry, guys. I didn't do my job today. And, like, there's something that happens there. It makes them know that, you know, that it's my job to score goals for this team. And when. When I didn't score, it's like a. Of an accountability cloak, you know? Go ahead, Billy. Sorry.

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

You think I can remember

[D]

now?

[C]

You've brought up your Olivia, you've brought up your dad a few times. So I'm wondering. He sounds like he's been a huge influence and your coach and life coach as well. Would you say that's true or not?

[A]

He's like, my best friend, genuinely. He was the guy who took me to every soccer practice, like, like, in the car, hours and hours on end, picking Me up early from school, like, coming on every trip with me. And I think a lot of people just look at my story in general, and they're like, oh, my gosh, her parents are probably psycho. You know, like, the dad controls everything. You know, that. That fun stuff, right? And then when they get to know me, they're like, oh, damn, that kid's crazy. So, no, it wasn't the parents. It was her. Which I'm like, thank you. I've been trying to say that. But at the same time, like, yes. Did he shape a lot of how I view, like, competition in general and, like, attacking goals and setting a plan to, like, achieve those goals? They're not just something that. It's like, oh, I hope I can do this someday if I can figure it out. It's like, no, you actually want to do that. Like, we're gonna figure out how you can do it, and are you actually capable of that thing? He was always the guy who was, like, asking around everywhere we played, like, talking to the coaches, learning, like, because he played basketball growing up, too, so he didn't really know the game of soccer when all this started. Now he. I mean, watches not as much as me because that would be hard, but he watches a lot. And I think when he comments now, it's, like, actually pretty accurate. Sometimes I'm like, okay, this is a basketball player talking. And other times I'm like, oh, that was really smart, dad. Like, I'm proud of you. But, yeah, he is. Like, he went out of his way to dedicate so much time to allowing me to understand and learn and become the best version of myself. And, yeah, going back to what I was saying, asking around and trying to figure out, like, how good is my kid and is what she wants realistic? Because he wasn't going to let me live in this, like, pipe dream of, oh, I want to do this, do this, do this. But it's, like, not possible. He's not that type of guy. He would have sat me down and said, okay, look, this is not a reality, so we got to change this up. But when it kind of was looking like it was a reality, he. Now he's the guy who's, like, number one fan, supporter, enthusiast in every way. Like, he'll go around and he. His confidence in me at some points in my career, I think was more than my confidence in myself. And I think it's pretty special to have someone like that in your corner. And it's gotten to the point where it's not like that anymore. I don't think anyone's confidence in me is higher than my confidence in me. But. But he got me through a lot of things at the beginning of my career that were really hard and just kind of when I felt like I was being shoved in a corner a little bit. He was the guy who was like, never forget who you are because eventually that will be allowed to shine. Because I know who you are and I know what you're capable of. And if you never forget that, like, everyone else will see that. And so 100%, he's been like a huge, huge part of my success. And yeah, I'm just really, really grateful for him.

[B]

Them. This show is sponsored by Liquid iv. We are outside a lot. Walking, exercising, anything. And here's the trick to stay hydrated. I reach for Liquid IV and it delivers longer lasting hydration than water alone. And right now you can get 20% off your first order with code. Welcome to the party at checkout. One stick in 16 ounces of water hydrates faster than water alone. Plus it's got three times the electrolytes of leading sports drinks, eight essential vitamins, and it helps retain hydration for up to 4 hours. So get moving with superior hydration from Liquid IV. Tear pour live more go to liquidiv.com and get 20% off your first purchase with code. Welcome to the party at checkout. That's 20 off your first purchase with code. Welcome to the [e-mail] okay party people, at some point, if not from me, you've heard of Googles True or you've heard it from some other pasta lover in your life. And Abs hears me talk about it all the time because Goodles really does scratch that Mac and cheese itch. It tastes nostalgic. It's cozy and cheesy in the way you want it to be, but it also has ingredients that make me feel a lot better about reaching for it on a random Tuesday. Abs. I've I've tried a few of the flavors now and they're honestly, I've done my three flavors a weekend testing. I'm especially into cheddimac. I really want to try all of them because there are a lot of them. You know, I like shallow. Good because I like all the names. But each serving has protein and fiber with prebiotics plus vitamins and mineral minerals from real plant sources. And they're clean Label Purity Award certified, which means they've been tested for over 400 different contaminants and meet really high standards. That's what that means. It's Time to get some goodles for yourself. I know you'll love them as much as I do. Pick up goodles, Mac and cheese and pasta on your next shopping trip. Available nationwide at Target and Walmart, plus any other major grocery stores and retailers. This show is sponsored by Liquid IV Abs.

[D]

Yo.

[B]

I have a feeling that you and I do vacations very similar. We are active, we are hiking, we are moving, we are pickleballing, we're surfing. We're doing it. All right.

[D]

Yes. My family and Jules, my family, we like to find one of the most like, like unpopular hikes. So I guess uncrowded is the way. Like we don't want to be on the most popular trail.

[B]

Right.

[D]

So we go down the. These rabbit holes of like finding the off the beaten path.

[B]

Right.

[D]

Trails. Do. Do you guys do that or you guys popular trail?

[B]

No, I like, I like the path less traveled. For sure.

[D]

For sure.

[B]

Yeah.

[D]

And, and, and that because of that, that you have to prepare for all circumstances. And by the way, let's just say it now, family vacation is not vacation. It's trips. There's no such thing as family vacation

[B]

when you have kids.

[D]

Exactly.

[B]

Okay.

[D]

When you have children, they're trips.

[B]

We actually did a hike that's really popular because it's. It's so good. When we were in Kauai last year, that waterfall hike, that's hard. It's really hard.

[D]

Yeah.

[B]

Way up high, you pass Hanalei Bay, you keep going, you have to take a shuttle in and because it's so long. We know. And I've done this hike before where I didn't bring enough water and electrolytes when I was younger. And so I told the kids. So the kids and I and Ian, we just like started shoving Liquid IV packets in everything we could in the backpacks and pockets so that when we were on this hike and I. And I'm like, you have to bring enough water. Because the thing about those adventures and, and long, long travels and hikes like that, they wipe you out. So that's where Liquid IV has become our non negotiable. I literally throw those packets in and you can tear one open while you're hiking and just dump it in your water.

[C]

Yeah.

[D]

And you can really feel the difference because Jules, I don't know if you know this. It's powered by their live hydro science formula, like an optimized ratio of electrolytes, vitamins, and clinically tested nutrients that hydrate faster than water alone. And Jules, it's going to keep you hydrated for up to four hours. So that's not. That's not nothing. When you're running and hiking some of the. And going on these long hikes like. Like you did in Kauai.

[B]

Okay. You know what my go to flavor is?

[D]

What?

[B]

Have you tried this one?

[D]

No.

[B]

Colada.

[D]

Pina colada. I've not tried that.

[B]

Oh, I. It is. Is as if you were drinking a pina colada. It's clean, it's refreshing. It's not too sweet. What's your fave?

[A]

Oh, good.

[D]

White. White peach.

[B]

I love peaches. I'm such a peach person. Okay. And if you want sugar free, that's your white peach one. You got that?

[D]

Yeah.

[B]

You got rainbow sherbet. Fun. So wherever your curiosity takes you, bring Liquid IV. Go to LiquidIV.com and get 20 off your first order with code. Welcome to the party at checkout. That's 20 off with code. Welcome to the party at [e-mail]. tear poor. Live more. Hike more, Party more. Kinger. I'm going to give some context to you and to the party people that Olivia was playing with Portland thorns at 13, 14 years old, right? Liv. And yet she couldn't play in an official professional game because they had an age minimum requirement of 18, 18 years old for the league. And so Liv kept fighting the league on this, and finally she ended up having to sue the league because they wouldn't let her play. And so Liv sued the league for that minimum age requirement because she said, look, if I was a guy, if I was a young boy with mls, I could be playing right now. I could be making a living. I could be training, hopefully with the US Women's national team. And this is my. You know, this is the league that. That feeds into the national team, and you're not allowing me to do so. And she also said, your lawyer said, you know, she's already eligible to play for the U.S. women's National Team, but can't officially play in the league. And that develops and prepares talent for the national team, which is essentially unfair. They won that lawsuit. And so now, as we've seen, if you're good enough, you're old enough, there are young players coming in. And I just. It now makes sense to me because I would think, who has the strength at 13, 14 to do that? And now I'm like, oh, Livia Moultrie does.

[C]

Now that we've listened to her, we know why.

[A]

Yeah.

[C]

Take no prisoners, do you?

[B]

I want to show you one moment, one moment you may remember quite well.

[D]

It is Time for a historic NWSL sub substitution. It's 15 year old Olivia Moultrie to

[A]

make her NWSL debut.

[B]

Watch. Watch live. Hold on. She wants to get on so bad. Watch real quick. Do you remember that moment?

[D]

That's so great.

[B]

Of course you remember that moment. What do you remember of that moment?

[A]

I remember being on the side, like, so the Lawsuit. I signed my contract two days before this game. And they were like, yeah, you're gonna travel. And I was like, oh my gosh. Like I had been preparing for this, but at the same time I was like, oh, we're in it. Like we're going. And so being on the sideline for that game, I was kind of like, wow, this is so cool. Like, this is so cool. This is what I've been watching and waiting for. And I, I remember my coach before was like, I don't expect you to play. Like, just want to give you the heads up, but you know, anything can happen. And I was like, okay, you know, like, I'll be ready, coach. And then Ange went down with like a calf cramp. And I was like looking around and I was like, oh my gosh, I'm gonna go in. Like, I could, I could just feel it. I was like, oh my gosh, I'm gonna go in. And you can tell watching me on the sideline, like just couldn't stop, like moving, like legs are moving, arms are moving, like, just ready to go. Ready to go. Like the amount of energy and excitement and almost just like, like, yeah, everything that that moment brought, you could tell in my body language that I was feeling that. But at the same time I was just like. It was like a, like I was able to take a deep breath. I was like, this is what I wanted. Like, this is what I worked for at this point. Like I've done all the freaking, all the other hard stuff. Like now I just actually get to go have fun and be in a game. Yeah, I think I didn't have very many, like critical thoughts in that moment. I was like, like go out, sprint around, put a tackle in, like, you know, and just embrace it. Really, it. It didn't need to be perfect cuz everything about it was already perfect. Yeah, it was, it was a pretty special moment. And my mom and dad and aunt and uncle flew out the night before and so they were there for the game.

[C]

Yeah.

[B]

Two days after you've signed your first professional contract at 15.

[C]

Totally awesome.

[B]

Which you had to sue NWSL to actually get to. And now all you open up this pathway for all these other young women. Liv, hold on a second.

[D]

I just want to say one thing. Liv, do you want to break the international goal scoring record that is currently held by Christine Sinclair?

[A]

What is she at? 190 something.

[D]

190 something.

[C]

Why not?

[A]

She's a beast. That's. That's the correct answer right there. Why not? I think, yeah, I want a lot of success in my career, and I'm never gonna take something off the table because I want to take everything that I can get and then I can make happen. And, yeah, I respect so much the people who kind of helped and paved the way before me. And now I'm like, all right, sorry, but. But I'm stepping into that now. But, yeah, it's your turn. I'm really excited for it.

[D]

Yeah, you're. You're young man. I only started on the national team, really playing at, like, 23, 24 goals. 23.

[C]

Wow.

[D]

So you will have many years ahead of me. You've had many years at a professional level ahead of me. Sync broke my record, and, you know, I love Sync. You love Sync. She's incredible. She deserves it.

[B]

Sinclair from Canada.

[D]

We want a US Player on that top spot. Let's go. This is my challenge to you.

[B]

Abby's throwing down the gauntlet. I know.

[A]

I was like, what's the moment?

[C]

Every generation gets better, okay? Every generation gets better. That's our job. Every generation's job is to make. Set it up for the next generations, our next generation and generations. That's our job. I think I always thought that way,

[A]

but, yeah, I'm trying to put it out of reach, Billy. I'm trying to, like, make it really, really hard for the people.

[C]

I understand. I understand where you're coming from, but also, I was interested in. I was interested in what you said about mistakes. See, I. I don't. I don't believe in failure at all. I think everything's feedback. Win or lose or draw or whatever. So everything that's happening in your life is feedback. No one spends any time when they win. And that's where you. I think you need to spend a lot of time. What makes us great? And champions practice their strengths.

[A]

They really do, I think. Like, I. I win when I. I do me. I'm bringing my dad into this again. We kind of, like, created all these mental things, right, that I would think about before a game, and one of the ones that has stuck with me since I was, I don't know, 10 or 11 years old is this idea of, like, being in my box. So everything else is going on around me, whatever. But like Olivia Moultrie, that entity that never changes and like when I am in my box and able to completely isolate my mental focus towards what needs to be done to win and for me to play at my highest level, like, that's when I'm my best. That's when I win, is when nothing going on around me, like, impacts me at all. Of course it, it can alter decision making and it can impact, inform what I'm doing, but it does not change or impact how I feel about myself, what I feel like I am capable of, how I can impact and win the game, how I can score goals, how I can get assists. Like, when I find my flow as a player, like, that is when I am my best and that is how I win. Because I feel like when I get to that point, like in my head, like nobody is better than me. Like, that's how I feel when I'm doing it. When I am at my best, I'm just like, I don't think anyone can bring all of these things that I can bring in the same way that I can bring them. I feel like a complete, unique entity in that way. And kind of that's what I'm practicing every day is like, how can I be that version of myself in every moment? Because I feel like that will allow me to be the best. So that's how I win, is when I can find basically that highest level of myself.

[C]

Well, you're very unique. That's why you're a winner. No, it's just I could just listen all day.

[B]

I know.

[C]

I love, because I love the mental and emotional part the most. This is, I think that's what makes a difference.

[B]

I will, I will finish this off by only going into mom mode as you. You've heard from these two iconic, you know, best in their sport athletes. I was just a player that had really good vocal cords and loved to play and be a good teammate. Not true.

[C]

How about leadership?

[B]

I will just, just say that the North Star for all of this on top of setting these records and the pressure of that is that you are loving what you're doing. And may that be like the core to everything you do is shit. I love this so much. Like, I loved going out every day and training and working harder and getting everyone better. And the positivity of when you love what you're doing, then you're also able to get to that next level. So don't forget that in all of this chaos, because it can Easily be forgotten. And I think a lot of kids your age get so consumed with, you know, the stats and the records and all those things which are very important, because there's no question you have the mentality to chase those. Those, and you have the ability and the talent to get those. But also, remember, always, the core of what you do is that you enjoy the hell out of it.

[C]

You gotta love it, man. You gotta love it. Else, don't play. Just love it. Didn't you just love it? I love. I love tennis. I don't like it. I love it. You know, I'm 82, and I still want to give me the ball.

[A]

I love it. I love it. I think that's genuinely what allows me to. Like, that's the center of everything. I don't think I would chase things with the same fervor or care as much as I like. I love showing up to practice every day. Like, at the end of the day, I am living my dream. It's true. Like, so, yeah, every soccer, every young

[C]

athlete should see this. I swear to God, you are amazing.

[A]

Thank you.

[B]

Kinger. At the top of the show, Liv. I said, kinger, you are gonna love.

[C]

I loved being here. I am so glad I didn't miss this. I cannot tell you.

[B]

You.

[D]

I just want to say. I just want to say this. I know that I speak for the three of us. Like, if you need anything, just don't hesitate to get in touch.

[C]

Like, yeah, we know how to go

[D]

and do all the things. Like, if you think, oh, I wonder what Abby thinks or Julie thinks or Billy thinks. Just get in touch because, man, I want to see you keep soaring and you keep going. I want to see you set new standards year over year over year. Like, you're freaking great. Congratulations on everything.

[A]

Thank you so much. That means so much, truly.

[C]

You mean I'm gonna have to watch more soccer?

[A]

You have a yes, Billy.

[C]

Okay. Okay.

[B]

Here's now in fully, fully committed.

[C]

Oh, this is great.

[B]

All right, we do. The final thing we do is a little party pose on three. Whatever your party pose is. I have to think about this for a little bit.

[C]

I don't know.

[B]

I know.

[C]

I need my foot.

[B]

You need to be scoring a goal, Kinger. Okay.

[C]

Yeah. Right?

[D]

Huh?

[B]

Party pose on three. One, two, three. Okay, I need your guys's reaction. I told you, you're gonna love Liv, right?

[D]

Wow.

[C]

Yeah, you did, right?

[D]

I have, like, a very. I haven't felt this way about a young women's national team player in a long time. That.

[C]

No, she's a winner. Winner, you guys. She's like a number one. Totally number one. You can see why she. She has done what she's done. I mean, it was so obvious. Like 20 seconds in, I'm like, okay, we have a big. A number one here. Yeah. If it were tennis. Oh, God, I love it. She thinks just right.

[D]

Yeah, she's. And. And what's so cool about it is that her confidence doesn't seem arrogant.

[C]

It's not. That's why she's wonderful. It's not arrogant at all.

[D]

Yeah, it's really.

[C]

She just has high expectations and rightly so. She's able to do. As long as you can do them, you're okay.

[D]

Yeah, I don't think that I can. You know, I want to know her because I feel like that there's very unique similarities in the way that I had. I was processing through, but I'm also like, dude, you're old. Like, it's totally a different world and a different game now. Like, there's nothing I can do to help.

[C]

Still the same mental stuff. It's exactly. It doesn't matter what generation on the mental.

[D]

They're just like, like, yeah.

[C]

Also there's more information, which is fantastic. Oh, that was great.

[B]

She's awesome.

[C]

That was my. Don't. I can't say this.

[B]

Cheerleaders going forward.

[D]

Yeah. So awesome. I can't wait to keep watching her play. Also, I just want to do a quick shout out.

[C]

I want to watch that team for sure.

[D]

Billy, Jules, have you guys seen Heather O'Reilly? How she's taken on this Como FC women's team over in Italy? They just. They just solidified promotion into Syria.

[C]

Oh, no way.

[B]

That's amazing.

[D]

So in. In Europe, a lot of the leagues, they do what's called promotion and relegation, meaning the top two teams.

[C]

Oh, yeah, yeah. I know what they do. Like the Premier league, the top 10 stay in, the other goes. Yep.

[D]

The top two teams get promoted into the next highest league and then the top, the lowest two teams get relegated.

[B]

Did you also see that our former teammate, Amanda Cromwell with the U.S. women's National Team, she's been coaching the American Samoan team. Yeah. My kid played against 33 spots since August, so they climbed number 120. They've jumped up.

[D]

Amazing.

[B]

Yeah. Well, Jules, my World Cup.

[C]

That's great coaching.

[B]

Yeah.

[D]

Emma, my youngest, the herp club team scrimmaged against them. Oh, no Prep.

[B]

I know. I'm so happy for Amanda. That's awesome.

[D]

So great.

[B]

All right, party people. Don't forget to subscribe to the welcome to the party YouTube channel, click that little bell icon so you can get updates when new episodes go live live.

[D]

And if you take one minute we would so appreciate it to rate Leave a comment and subscribe to the podcast on Apple Podcast, Spotify or wherever you get your podcast. And be sure to follow us on Instagram or in or YouTube or wherever you get your socials at. Welcome to the Party show where Julie, Billy and I will bring the party straight to your feed. You can also email us at party people questions gmail.com Kate Diaz we love our theme music. Thank you so much y'.

[C]

All.

[D]

Bring it in. Pause in. Let's USA USA usa.

[B]

King

[C]

okay, here we go. One, two, three.

[D]

Welcome to the Party is an independent production brought to you by Treat Media. Treat Media makes art for humans who want to stay human. Initial Digital is our production partner and you can also watch our full conversations on the welcome to the party YouTube channel and follow us at welcome to the Party show on Instagram and TikTok. Thanks for listening.