265. Thriving in Chaos: Merel van Dongen on Embracing Change, Motherhood & the Mindset Shift That Changed Everything

In this episode, we sit down with NWSL defender Nealy Martin for an honest and inspiring convo about the rollercoaster that is professional soccer. From applying to 9–5 jobs while chasing her dream of playing pro, to stepping into goal (twice) during real matches, Nealy’s journey is anything but ordinary.We talk about:The moment she almost gave up on soccer — and why she didn’tHow it actually feels to go undrafted and still make itWhat it’s like to literally pay to attend a pro tryoutPlaying goalkeeper professionally (yes, really)The mental chaos of getting tradedHer advice to anyone unsure if they should keep goingWhether you’re a young player figuring out your next step, or just love a good underdog story, this one’s for you.

This week on the SoccerGrlProbs Podcast, we sit down with Dutch international and current Liga MX Femenil defender Merel van Dongen for a raw and inspiring conversation about what it means to thrive in chaos. From shattering her nose mid-season to becoming a new mom, bouncing between countries, and qualifying for UEFA Women’s Euro 2025 with the Netherlands—Merel has lived five years in one.We talk about her time setting assist records at Alabama, the emotional attachment to winning and losing, and the mindset shift that helped her stop obsessing over outcomes and start focusing on what she can control.“I love not knowing what’s going to happen on Monday,” Merel tells us. “For some people that’s stressful—for me, that’s living.”Whether you’re an athlete, a new parent, or just someone trying to stay grounded in a whirlwind of change, this episode will hit home.

On this week’s pod, we sat down with Icelandic midfielder Andrea Rán Snæfeld Hauksdóttir — currently playing for Tampa Bay Sun and the Icelandic national team — for a raw, insightful conversation about resilience, reinvention, and rewriting your own playbook.From qualifying for the Euros but not making the final squad,to choosing college soccer at USF over going pro at a time,to embracing every setback as fuel for the next chapter.We also talk about:⚽ Her journey across Iceland, France, NWSL, Mexico & now Tampa Bay🧠 Mental toughness and self-accountability📚 Why college soccer was the right path for her🚗 And how she’s learned to stay in the driver’s seat of her own careerThis one’s for anyone who’s felt overlooked, underestimated, or in need of a reminder that setbacks aren’t stop signs.

In this episode, we chat with Kansas City Current forward Alex Pfeiffer about her incredible journey as one of the youngest players ever signed to the NWSL. Alex opens up about how a major injury became a turning point in her life—shaping her mindset, building her resilience, and helping her form deep friendships. We dive into the challenges she’s faced, how she stays positive through rehab, and what she’s learned about growth both on and off the field. Her story is a powerful reminder that setbacks can fuel comebacks!

This week we chat with Melissa Ortiz, Olympian & former pro footballer, broadcaster, analyst and entrepreneur. In this powerful conversation, Melissa opens up about overcoming imposter syndrome and learning to fully embrace her authentic self — as a first-gen American, a Spanish speaker, and a proud representative of her culture.We talk about: • 🌟 Owning your identity and speaking your truth • 💬 Embracing culture & language as strength, not limitation • 🧠 Mental resilience and the road to self-confidence • 🏅 Advice for young athletes carving their path • 🌎 Representation matters — and why visibility can change livesAn inspiring listen for anyone navigating identity, ambition, and the power of showing up as you are.

This week, we’re joined by Morgan Brian Gautrat — 2X World Cup Champion, longtime USWNT staple, and current Orlando Pride midfielder.We dive into:⚽️ The mental side of battling injuries and concussions💪 What perseverance and true resilience really look like in a pro career🌱 Finding gratitude in the tough moments🔄 Embracing change (and how it shaped her journey)🧠 Why versatility is the secret weapon to longevity in sportsMorgan keeps it real about the highs, lows, and everything in between. A must-listen for any athlete navigating change or looking for staying power in their sport.We're giving away $1000 of Umbro cleats and gear- enter here: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DIKCx0zyhtR/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

In this episode, we sit down with USWNT legend and host of JWS'Sports Are Fun, Kelley O’Hara! She gets real about:⚽ How failures led to her biggest wins💪 The hidden struggles of pro athletes🌎 The evolution of women’s soccer🔥 Embracing failure as a path to growth👊 The power of unity in driving change for the women’s gameDon’t miss this inspiring conversation on the past, present, and future of women’s sports! 

On this episode of the SoccerGrlProbs Podcast, we sit down with NWSL, Utah Royal's and USWNT's Ally Sentnor to talk about her journey from draft day to her experience in the league so far. We dive into what it takes to bring energy and elevate team spirit, how to handle pressure in a competitive environment, and the power of positivity in both training and games. Ally shares her insights on being a great teammate, inspiring others to chase their dreams, and how mindset plays a huge role in success. Tune in for an inspiring and high-energy conversation with one of the league’s rising stars! ⚽🔥

In this episode, we sit down with former USWNT star, Bay FC Founder and sports broadcaster Aly Wagner for a fun and insightful conversation about soccer, leadership, and the power of individuality. Aly shares what it’s like being a soccer mom (including the hilarious story of getting kicked out of her son’s game!), the importance of prioritizing fun in youth sports, and how strong role models shape the future of the game.We also dive into the evolving investment in women’s sports, embracing individuality for team success, and modern leadership in soccer. Plus, Aly gives advice to players with big personalities on how to channel their energy while thriving within a team.It’s an episode filled with real talk, laughs, and wisdom from one of the most influential voices in the game. Don’t miss it! 🎙⚽️

In this episode, we chat with special guest Linda Martindale, a student-athlete performance coachabout the dynamic relationship between parents, coaches, and athletes ad exploring how they can work together to foster ahealthy, resilient mindset in sports.We discuss:✅ How to build resilient athletes who thrive under pressure✅ Why trust between parents and coaches is the key to success✅ How toempower young athletes to be their own best coach✅ The ultimate role of parents in sports &keys to effective coachingWhether you’re on the sidelines or leading the team, this episode is packed with insights to help you support young athletes in a positive, impactful way. 💪🔥Website:https://martindalecoaching.comLinda's Game Changers Podcast:https://martindalecoaching.com/game-changers-podcast/