285. Mak Whitman - How To Go Pro at 14

Mak joins the pod to talk about her journey, mindset, and what it really means to carve your own path in the game. From the growing conversation around going pro at a young age to tuning out outside noise, Mak shares how she’s stayed focused on her goals and trusted her process. It’s an honest, thoughtful conversation about confidence, timing, and doing what’s right for you , not everyone else. Get your pair of the new IDA Helia Club Turfs at idasports.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on SoccerGirl, we sit down with David Murray, soccer dad and author, for an honest, insightful conversation about the youth soccer journey from the sidelines. From the pressures parents feel to “get it right,” to the reality that mistakes are part of the process, David shares a perspective every soccer parent (and player) needs to hear. We talk about how to support young athletes without losing sight of the bigger picture, why communication between parents matters more than we think, and what it really means to raise strong, confident players beyond just wins and losses. If you’re navigating the world of youth sports, this episode is a must-listen. Get your copy of David's book, Soccer Dad here! Get your pair of the new IDA Helia Club Turfs at ⁠idasports.com⁠ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Today on the pod, we’re joined by U.S. Women’s National Team and Seattle Reign goalkeeper Claudia Dickey  Claudia is one of the top young American keepers in the game right now, and we had such a fun, honest conversation with her about life in goal and everything that comes with it. From handling pressure in big moments to competing against your own friends, she gives a real look into the mindset of a goalkeeper at the highest level. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to be a top keeper or just want to hang with one of the most fun personalities in the game this one’s for you. This episode is brought to you by IDA Sports👟 If you’ve played soccer, you know the struggle of wearing cleats that weren’t actually designed for women’s feet. That’s exactly why IDA exists. They make soccer boots specifically built for female athletes, focusing on fit, comfort, and performance. Get yours today at www.idasports.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this episode of the SoccerGirl podcast, we're joined by NWSL vet Kayla Sharples to talk her favorite celebrations, making the Best XI roster, and what it takes to become a better centerback. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the Soccer Girl Podcast, we’re joined by Eva Gaetino to talk all things USWNT, the excitement around Denver’s newest women’s soccer team, and the realities of life as a pro. Eva shares what it’s been like stepping into USWNT camp, the buzz around Denver Summit FC, and why the anticipation around the club has been building for so long. If you’re excited to see Denver finally take the field and want a behind-the-scenes look at one of the players helping lead the way, this episode is for you. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

For so many athletes, the dream is going pro bt for Casey Martinez, the path looked a little different. In this episode of SoccerGirl Pod, we sit down with former D1 standout Casey Martinez to talk about the decision to step away from pursuing a professional soccer career and instead commit to the demanding world of pre-med. We get into: -What it’s really like balancing D1 soccer and pre-med -The mindset shift that comes with transitioning out of sport -Why choosing a different path isn’t “giving up” — it’s growth -How being an athlete translates into medicine (yes, even surgery) -Advice for young players chasing big dreams on and off the field This is a conversation about identity, pressure, and trusting yourself when your future doesn’t look like everyone else’s. Because success doesn’t only live on the pitch. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Uncertainty is part of the job but no one really prepares you for it. In this episode, Kiki Pickett opens up about navigating role changes, managing expectations, and staying mentally grounded through the highs and lows of professional soccer. From shifting responsibilities to moments of doubt, Kiki shares how she reframes uncertainty and finds stability when things feel out of her control. Whether you’re an athlete, creator, or just figuring out your next move, this conversation is a reminder that growth often lives in the in-between. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on The Soccer Girl Pod, we’re joined by Britt Isenhour, former NWSL goalkeeper with the Orlando Pride and Angel City who’s now one of the most relatable and funniest soccer creators on social media. We talk about her transition from professional soccer to content creation, the confidence it takes to put yourself out there, navigating identity after stepping away from the game, and why the behind-the-scenes work matters more than people realize. Britt also shares how creating content helped her stay connected to soccer, build a business, and embrace a new chapter. Whether you’re an athlete thinking about what’s next, a creator in the grind, or just love the game, this episode is a must-listen. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week on the Soccer Girl Podcast, we’re hanging out with North Carolina Courage defender Maycee Bell. We talk about her journey from UNC to the NWSL, what really surprised her about going pro, and the not-so-glamorous side of recovering from a tough knee injury (including a wild recovery story). Maycee also shares why staying uncomfortable is key to growth, how she finds balance off the field, and why a future in fashion might be calling her name.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

ACL injuries are one of the toughest challenges in soccer both physically and mentally. This week we’re joined by Kate Sneddon, PT, DPT, CSCS, a leading ACL rehab and performance specialist who helps athletes turn “I hope I get back” into “I’m better than before.” We break down everything you need to know about ACL injuries, including: How ACL injuries happen in soccer How to prevent ACL injuries with smarter training and movement habits What ACL recovery really looks like physically and mentally How to deal with fear, confidence, and return-to-play pressure Why some athletes come back stronger than ever Whether you’re currently rehabbing, looking to prevent an injury, or supporting a teammate, this episode is packed with practical advice, mindset shifts, and expert insight every soccer player should hear. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices