In this empowering episode, I have an inspiring conversation with Alejandra Salazar, the trailblazing Founder and CEO of CROING. Defying the odds, Alejandra stands out as part of the rare 0.1% of creative agencies worldwide that are founded by women. Her remarkable journey from Venezuela to becoming a…
Ever found yourself tangled in someone else’s definition of success? You’re not alone, and this conversation is for you. I had the opportunity to sit down with Lacey Mencl, the powerhouse Legal Counsel for the National Women’s Soccer League. Lacey’s journey is a testament to the power of defining success on your own…
In this episode, I have the pleasure of speaking with Aime Card, the editor and author of “The Tigerbelles: Olympic Legends from Tennessee State.” Aime’s work is nothing short of remarkable, as she undertakes the significant challenge of chronicling the journeys of extraordinary female athletes. These women not only…
She is the visionary force behind one of your favorite brands for women in sports. She’s fearless, innovative, and making waves in the industry. She is the founder of Sportsimist—Saria Parker!
In this enlightening episode, Saria opens up about her dynamic path through the world of sports and the creation…
Welcome back to the second installment of our two-part episode featuring Eleanor Rowland, the Director of Safeguarding & Inclusion at Fulham Football Club. In this episode, Eleanor opens up with incredible vulnerability about her journey with General Anxiety Disorder and its influence on her professional life.
Eleanor…
Prepare to be captivated by our two-part episode, where I had the pleasure of chatting with Eleanor Rowland, the Director of Safeguarding & Inclusion at Fulham Football Club. For many of us here in the States, Eleanor’s job title might sound unfamiliar, but that’s exactly why this episode is a must-listen!
Eleanor opens…
Get ready to be inspired by a true powerhouse in the sports world – Elisa Padilla. As the Chief Marketing Officer for the New York Red Bulls, Elisa has an incredible journey within the sports industry that you do not want to miss. Believe it or not, her impressive background combined with strategic networking played a…
In this special episode, brought to you in partnership with Everything in Sport Women’s Edition Conferences, I’m excited to introduce you to one of their powerhouse speakers, the Miami Heat’s Chief of Culture & Inclusion, Clara Stroude-Vazquez. My friend, let me tell you, she dropped gem after gem on this episode….
In this episode we are talking about harnessing The Power of Asking in your career! If you’ve ever held back from asking for a promotion, a raise, or even for the respect you deserve at work, this episode is for you. It’s time to turn those fears into fuel, and transform your worry energy into money energy!
Ever felt like the only one in a room? Then you’re going to want to listen to this episode. I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Marilou McFarlane, trailblazing CEO and Founder of Women in Sports Tech. Not only has Marilou carved out a unique space in this industry, but she’s also one of the few female CEO…
In the concluding episode of our ‘Rising Above Toxic Work Environment’ series, you will hear from a veteran in the sports and events industry. With nearly twenty years of experience, she offers valuable insights that could be the guiding light for those grappling with a toxic workspace.
She opened up about her…
In our latest episode of the “Rise Above Toxic Work Environments” series, I chat with a woman who has navigated the sports and media industries for over a decade.
She courageously shares her journey to assure you that if you’re stuck in a toxic workspace, you’re not alone.
In this empowering episode, we sit down with a woman who has navigated the highs and lows of the sports and entertainment industry for nearly 15 years.
In this episode, you will learn how to:
Spot Red Flags: Learn the critical questions to ask that can reveal if you’re stepping into a toxic work environment. This…
In the third episode of our empowering six-part series, “Rise Above Toxic Work Environments,” we’re joined by an anonymous guest who brings a decade-long experience in the sports and entertainment industry. This episode is a treasure trove of insights, stories, and actionable advice, all aimed at helping you navigate…
Welcome to another episode of the Rise Above Toxic Work Environment Series on the Game of Her Own podcast. Today, we have a very special guest who will remain anonymous, but her story is no less powerful. With over 20 years of experience in the high-stakes world of sports and entertainment, she’s here to share her…
Welcome to the start of a transformative journey. If you’ve ever found yourself trapped in the suffocating embrace of a toxic work environment, this series is crafted specifically for you. In our first episode, prepare to uncover the secrets to reclaiming your confidence and shielding your future career from the erosive…
The episode featuring the Chief of Staff and Chief Legal Officer for NWSL Boston, Kim Miner, promises to be insightful and inspiring. Kim takes us on a journey and shares incredible wisdom that can be immediately applied to your career.
During the episode, we delve into various topics such as the comparison game and how…
The Tampa Bay Rays’ Vice President of Communications & Broadcasting, De Anna Sheffield Ward, talks about what it’s like using your voice, finding the strength to overcome self-doubt, and the power of effective networking.
Listen in as we talk about:
- The difference between confidence and cocky
- The power of allies…
Since Emily’s interview she has written a book! Click the link below to order your copy of Let’s go! A Guide to Increasing Your Confidence: How to go from too shy to order a pizza to unstoppable!
Emily Jaenson.The first female in almost 20 years to earn the role of GM…
What would happen if you let go of trying to be what you think people want and just be yourself?
Brooke Weisbrod talks about her incredible journey to becoming a sports broadcaster for ESPN. She opens up about what happened when she finally let go of trying to be what she thought people wanted and showed up as…
Do you want a promotion? Are you ready to have the conversation with your Manager?
I’m here for it and I want to make sure that you don’t make these 4 mistakes when asking for a promotion. Join me as I share 4 things that you shouldn’t do when it comes to making the big ask for a promotion and why it’s OK to…
Jacqui Iorio left a full-time salaried position with commission and benefits to take an internship with the Chicago Bulls for $8.25 an hour when she was twenty-four years old. Why did she do that? Jahaan gets all the details of how hard work and one really bold question helped Jacqui transition into her…
Have you ever thought about trying to get a job and thought to yourself, why would they want me? If you have, you’re not alone.
Stephanie Maneikis, Vice President of Fan Services & Entertainment, battled that limiting belief when she was going after her first job with the Red Sox. Luckily she didn’t let it stop her…
Eboni Wilson, Vice President of Guest Experience for UBS Arena, has over 18 years of venue experience. This boss has opened four arenas, two theaters, and has worked in some of the largest markets in the country including Las Vegas, Washington D.C., and New York!
Listen in to our conversation as we discuss:
- How…
I got to sit down with the Chief of Staff and Assistant Athletic Director of Football Operations at Jackson State University, Jashell Mitchell.
In this episode, Jashell talks about how she intentionally set out to build her personal brand, emphasizing the importance of staying focused on what really matters and…
Stepping into a leadership role can be exciting and scary all at the same time. The pressure to succeed can sometimes lead us to adopt leadership habits that either stunt our growth or don’t feel authentic to us. In this episode, I share 5 leadership pitfalls that you want to avoid in order to make sure you step…
In this episode, you hear from a guest who is navigating the world of sports with a unique blend of grace and grit. Lauren Hall, the Program Director at the Rose Bowl Institute, is here to share her incredible journey with us.
In our conversation, Lauren shares why she believes that nobody is 100% sure in their…
If you’ve ever held back your thoughts, stifled your voice, or felt invisible in a room full of voices, this is your cue to lean in and listen. In this episode, I share 10 ways to manage your fear of speaking up at work. You’ll learn to see your fear from a different perspective. You’ll discover that your voice matters…
In this episode of The Game of Her Own podcast,we’re joined by Pam Rappaport, Vice President of Partnerships at 160 over 90. Pam pulls back the curtain on her climb to executive success, sharing insights that might just change your perspective on your own career journey.
Pam doesn’t believe the journey to the top should…
Ever felt overlooked at work despite giving it everything you have? Tired of working tirelessly only to be overlooked for opportunities? Yes, I’ve been too. It’s exhausting.
Join me as I dive into the art of being assertive. We’re not talking about aggression or people-pleasing, but rather the delicate dance of…
Senior Director of Marketing at Excel Sports Management, Juliette Daley shares her insights on the journey of self-awareness and discusses the importance of understanding your strengths and weaknesses. She emphasizes that it’s okay to acknowledge when a role isn’t right for you, while also stressing the importance of…
We are diving into one of the most challenging aspects of leadership – dealing with difficult team members. As a leader, it’s inevitable that you’ll encounter individuals who are hard to manage. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with actionable tips and insights.
In this episode, I talk about common issues…
We are diving into one of the most challenging aspects of leadership – dealing with difficult team members. As a leader, it’s inevitable that you’ll encounter individuals who are hard to manage. But don’t worry, we’ve got you covered with actionable tips and insights.
In this episode, I talk about common issues…
Do you have the power to create a position that doesn’t exist?
The answer is HELL YES! And Megan Donovan of the Chicago Bulls is going to tell you just how she did it!
Listen in as Megan talks about:
- Why you need to have a consultant mindset
- How to handle the learning curve
- What happens when you are…
Leading from where you are, being comfortable saying no, leading high functioning teams….and the list goes on! Nancy Atufunwa takes us on her incredible journey in sports from when it all began to her role now as Director of Marketing for USA Water Polo.
Don’t miss our great conversation where Nancy…
Confidence. During my career, I didn’t always have it when I needed it most. The turning point was when I focused on developing my confidence muscle. Leading high-performing teams, public speaking, pitching ideas, and advocating for myself became easier as my confidence strengthened.
You have put too much work into…
If you were stepping into an executive role for the very first time would you have any fears?
Samia Mahjub was named Vice President of Business Strategy & Analytics for the Milwaukee Brewers in February 2020 and she shares why there was no fear around stepping into the role.
Listen in as we talk about:
- What you…
Have you been thinking of investing in a personal career coach? What if you could have part or all of it paid for by your employer? In this episode, I talk about 5 tips to help you get coaching paid for by your company! Don’t forget, when you succeed, so does your company. So there is value in them investing in you….
Are you happy in your career? Truly happy?
My biggest takeaway from this episode with Kathryn Tappen, Host and Reporter for NBC Sports Group, is that she puts happiness first! I think we all know that’s not easy as we go after what we want in such a competitive industry. You don’t want to miss my conversation with…
Listen in as Jessica and I talk about:
- Why you should focus on your potential instead of your performance when it comes to new opportunities
- What happens when you look for the “less sexy” opportunities
- Why you should check your ego at the door
- The importance of stretching in your career
- Why she doesn’t suffer…
Do you think you are an effective leader? Do you think you have the capabilities to lead?
Join me and Camye Mackey, Executive Vice President and Chief People, Diversity and Inclusion Officer for the Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena for a great conversation around what effective leadership looks like. Camye gave us…
Get ready because you’re about to learn a lot with communications expert, Susan Oguche. She offers so many valuable strategies on navigating a career in the sports industry. She discusses how she’s made her career work with a family, how and why she stays active on LinkedIn and how to show your value at…
Do you know that 40% of Americans leave unused paid vacation on the table?
Friends, I don’t want you to fall into that category. It’s your time. It’s part of your compensation package. There is a reason why you were given that time. It’s up to you to take it.
Listen in as I share four easy ways to take…
Jahaan sits down with Ashley Clinkscale, Senior Vice President, Communications, Community and Diversity, Portland Trailblazers. Ashley fell in love with passion and communications and found her niche in sports. She loves the storytelling and y’all, Ashely is about to share her incredible journey with us! …
I got to sit down with Cara Canington, an accomplished executive who shares valuable insights about work-life balance and leadership. She discusses how to show up as a servant leader, even if you’re not managing employees, and how to handle internal turmoil that can impact your job. Cara emphasizes the importance…
She was reluctant to be groomed for the role of Commissioner, but after spending an hour with Sonja Stills you will see exactly why she is the Commissioner of the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference.
In this episode, Sonja takes us through her journey in the sports industry. Including why she only asked for one promotion…
What if you couldn’t get a seat at the table and decided to build your own? What if you took that leap of faith to start your own business and believed you were enough? Amanda Carlo, the founder of Gold Griff Athlete Agency, did exactly that. She was the Manager of Community Outreach & Alumni Relations for the…
Join me for an extraordinary conversation featuring Kim Anderson, Head of Marketing for the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023. With a career spanning two decades and global experience, Kim shares her inspiring journey, including bouncing back from a toxic work environment and thriving in a male-dominated industry. Discover…
Do you show up as your authentic self?
Andrea Nunez, Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Los Angeles Angels shows up as her authentic self every single day and she is going to tell you how she does it! During this episode, she will make you laugh. She will make you cry. And she will leave you feeling…
You asked, and we answered! In this listener question episode, I invited a guest host to join me in answering your questions. I am joined by Jen Andrus, SVP of Production at Abel McCallister Abel, to provide you with insightful answers to questions. Our combined expertise will help unravel some of the most…
I got to sit down with Connie Falcone, Founder and President of the Firefly Group, a company that she recently founded that helps athletes plan and activate charitable initiatives.
Connie has an incredible nonprofit background. Most recently, she was President of Northwestern Memorial Foundation, the fundraising…
Whether you’re pitching an idea to your boss, delivering a report to your team, or presenting at a conference, presentations are a critical part of many jobs. But presenting can be nerve-wracking, especially when you’re speaking to leadership. The stakes feel so high.
Honestly, for those of us who are anxious…
I know that motherhood can be isolating and it’s why I wanted to sit down with experts Megan Dalton and Lauren Hays, the Co-founders of The Matrescence to dive into what it’s like being a working mother.
This episode is for you if you are like me and don’t have children, but manage women who do.
This episode is…
From Ball Girl to CMO – that’s the name of Melissa Proctor’s new book. Before Jahaan read her book, she already thought she was a total boss. A black woman who is the Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer of the Atlanta Hawks and State Farm Arena. When Jahaan started her career in sports she didn’t…
Imagine having over 18 years of experience, being a Forty under 40 recipient, being named Business Woman of the Year, and Business Elite 40 Under 40 for North America, only to have people mistake you for the secretary or assistant in meetings.
That’s exactly what has happened to Co-Founder and CEO of FanSaves,…
I had the honor of sitting down and interviewing one of my mentors. Donna Latson Gittens, Founder and CEO of MORE Advertising.
We first met back in my Red Sox days when Donna served as a consultant who later went on to win the first Annual Jackie Robinson Award for Most Valuable Diverse Business Partner from…
In this episode, our guest has always worked for iconic brands including Walt Disney World, and the Chicago Cubs, and is now making her debut as an executive for the Phoenix Suns. Vanessa Ward, Vice President of Event Services for the Suns, dives in and talks all about her journey.
Listen in as she talks about:
- What…
What would you do if you found out your male co-worker who is also your counterpart was making $50,000 more than you? Well, Callie Welch, Director of Alumni Relations and Marketing for the Las Vegas Raiders is going to tell you exactly what she did!
Listen in as Callie talks about the salary disparity and how…
Whatever you want your career to look like, you can design it to be exactly that. Is that always easy? Of course not, but if it were easy, everyone would be doing it.
Here is how I’m going to help you. A lot of you have asked me how you can work events like the Super Bowl, MLB All-Star, and other large-scale…
Do you ever wonder what it would take for you to make the jump to the executive level? Do you question whether or not you have what it takes? In this episode, Sumathi Thiyagarajan, Vice President of Business Strategy & Analytics for the Milwaukee Bucks and Fiserv Forum, shares how she knew she was ready for the Vice…
What do you do when everything on your never-ending to-do list seems important? There just isn’t enough time in the day to get it all done. But it’s all important and you don’t want to drop the ball on anything.
My clients often talk about their struggle with prioritizing. After digging in, sometimes we discover…
- Director of Partnership Marketing for the Chicago Bulls
- Promoted to Director after a year and 3 months
- Elected President of WISE Chicago Chapter in 2020
- Currently Serves as WISE Chicago Boards Chairwoman
- Master’s Degree in Sports Administration
- Mother of Two
Now, would you believe me if I told you that this person…
When you have a new manager it can take some time to get used to their style. I’m not just talking about managing style, while that is very important, I’m talking about all the things.
How they:
- Consume information
- Build relationships
- Give feedback
- Receive feedback
- Receive progress reports on the projects you…
Owning who you are is extremely freeing. I will say not everyone is comfortable doing that. It takes practice, courage, and confidence. I can’t wait for you to listen to my conversation with Abby Murphy, Director, Baseball Communications & Media Relations for the Boston Red Sox talk all about how she owns exactly who…
Don’t you love it when guests get super candid about things like self-doubt, imposter syndrome, or anxiety? They are invisible forces that can very easily hold us back from growing in our careers. But if we talk about them and acknowledge that they exist it helps us conquer them.
Kathleen Ikpi, Manager of Fan…
Are you holding yourself accountable? Are you making sure you are on track to hit your goals? I want to help you with some quick easy tips to make sure you not only meet your goals, you exceed them. It starts with one thing – that’s how you hold yourself accountable. It takes discipline and focus. At times you will…
If you were in the sports industry for close to ten years, would you leave your job and essentially the industry to travel Europe for six months? Well, our guest Christi Bedan, Vice President of Digital & Media for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers did exactly that.
She has been in the industry now for almost twenty years and…
Y’all are in for a treat! I got to spend time with Sivonnia L. DeBarros, protector of athletes, lawyer, and law business owner. She has represented pro athletes from the NFL, MLS, NBA-G League, and Pro-Table Tennis sports. Sivonnia has been featured on CBS, ABC, WGN, and Shoutout LA, and is a host of podcasts and…
We are back! This is the first episode of the new year. I’m so excited about the conversation you are about to listen to. I’ve known Nina Beltre since 2007 when she first started her career in sports as a Fenway Ambassador for the Boston Red Sox. Fast forward 16 years and her journey has been filled with …
Her superpower is that she doesn’t get anxious. SAY WHAT?! Envy washed over me when I heard this, followed by curiosity…and we dive in!
Listen in to my conversation with Alexandria Price as we talk about:
- How she got over imposter syndrome
- Why she doesn’t get anxious
- How to get coworkers to see you as more…
What would you do if you found out you were offered $35,000 less than a male counterpart? Pam Kenn, Senior Vice President of Community, Alumni and Player Relations, gets real candid and tells us exactly what she did when that happened to her.
You don’t want to miss this super honest conversation!
Listen in as we…
How well do you know yourself? I know that may seem like a strange question, but Dr. B talks about why actively learning about yourself will help your professional growth.
I’m so excited for you to listen to my conversation with Dr. B! She shares some amazing nuggets! I’m talking gold!
Listen in as we talk…
2023 is right around the corner and I want to help you avoid these common mistakes so you can go further faster in the new year.
Listen in as I talk about ten mistakes to avoid so you can have your best year yet.
Avoiding these 10…
Mary Elizabeth Cox started her first job in sports with the Atlanta Braves 6 years ago and hasn’t looked back! What I think y’all will love about Mary Elizabeth’s journey in sports is how she recognized that her strengths aligned with her passions and how she was able to turn that into a role at the Atlanta…
Whether you are just starting your career or you’re an executive, one thing that is critical to your success is consistently advocating for yourself.
Meghan Marvin, Vice President of Global Service Delivery for Endeavor, feels strongly that we should all be advocating for ourselves regardless of level.
Meghan, who is a…
Is there something missing in your career? How are you going to handle it?
Jen Wolf, Life Skills Coordinator for the Cleveland Indians, noticed that a certain level of support was missing from her career, so she went out and created it herself. A woman after my own heart.
Listen in as Jen, who by the way was my intern…
Just be fearless, they say. I say, if only it were that simple.
It’s so easy for fear to slow us down. Sometimes it can stop us dead in our tracks. So, let’s stop worrying about being fearless and learn how to feel the fear and do it anyway. In this episode, I share three easy ways you can feel the fear and do it…
I’m so excited y’all are here for this conversation. I’m chatting with Leah Linke who is the Senior Vice President of Event Production and Operations for On Location and drops some incredible knowledge. Listening to Leah’s journey over the past 30 years in the industry is like getting your own private master…
What does it mean to take up space? As women who work in a male-dominated industry, we are often given the advice, “make sure you take up space!” I’m going to make it easy for you by sharing three easy ways to take up space at work plus a bonus!
Don’t you hate when you get in your own way? Nobody has got time for that! As women in a male-dominated industry, we have enough external challenges, let’s not throw in more. In this episode of the Game of Her Own podcast, I share with you three things to start doing to get out of your own way.
P.S. There are…
According to the Washington Post, in 2020 between early March and early June, job titles such as Chief Diversity Officer, Diversity and Inclusion Recruiter, or D & I program manager fell nearly 60 percent.
That’s until our country had a racial awakening and suddenly we witnessed new corporate commitments for…
When I started in sports 20 years ago, I never saw female team physicians at the Major League level. If they existed, they kept them hidden behind closed doors. It’s part of the reason why I get over the top very excited when I see women team physicians at the Major League level.
So you can imagine my joy when I got…
Managing people is not easy. Not everyone thrives when leading a team. That is certainly not the case for Amy Potter, Director of North American Sponsorships for BMO Financial Group. Amy, who works at the intersection of sports and finance, talks all about what it takes to lead a high-achieving team without getting in…
Do you consider yourself a people pleaser? In this episode, we are going to talk about the signs of being a people pleaser and how to stop it! A lot of people can relate to being a people pleaser but do not realize it’s damaging to their career. I want to help you take control so you can make an impact at work and…
I often hear women who are trying to get into the sports industry say that it’s impossible to get a job because they have no experience in the industry. I hope they believe me when I tell them that is absolutely not true. I beg of you not to buy into the false narrative just because it may bring you comfort during a…
As a child imagine if you had always dreamt of having a career in television. Imagine, practicing in the mirror with a brush to get ready for your big moment, and as an adult, your dream came true. But what if you had moved to a different country and had to start your career over? You couldn’t land a job in television…
We all hate the F-word.
Failing is one of those things that we call dread. But in order to be successful in your business, you are going to have to take risks. And sometimes those risks don’t pay off in the beginning and you feel like a failure. But it’s what you do next that matters the most.
In the latest…
Do you know that 40% of Americans leave unused paid vacation on the table?
Friends, I don’t want you to fall into that category. It’s your time. It’s part of your compensation package. There is a reason why you were given that time. It’s up to you to take it.
Listen in as I share four easy ways to take your…
I love that part of my job is to talk to strong women who work in the sports industry. In every conversation, I am left blown away by the strength, reliance, and coverage of the women I interview. The same goes for Julie Hershkowitz, Senior Associate for Whoop Labs.
Julie opens up and shares:
- Why and how she said yes…
When did you first start managing people? Did you feel prepared? Did you just get thrown in the fire?
A lot of us who manage people don’t go through any formal training and use a combination of instinct and how you were managed in the past.
Whether you have managed, manage one now, or aspire to manage a team, in…
When I first added Megan Reyes to my potential podcast guest list, I didn’t know her title so I wrote “Overall Badass.” I promise you, the title fits. I’m thinking she should use it moving forward.
Not only has Megan founded an athlete marketing agency, but she is an on-air host for both Angels Wear Boots (a
Working in a toxic work environment can crush your spirit and disrupt your life. It can be lonely and hard for you to see your way out. Once you are out, you may have some wounds that take a while to heal.
Cassandra Pisone found the courage to leave a toxic work environment and now she is thriving in her…
Get ready to be mentally lifted and inspired by Hollis Brown, Coordinator of Partner Strategy and Management for the Milwaukee Buck and also the newly crowned Miss Wisconsin USA 2022. Hollis’ energy is contagious and you are definitely going to want to borrow some of it!
Listen in as we talk about:
- Why she is ok…
If done correctly, networking can help your career growth! In this episode, I talk about different types of networking, how to figure out what type works for you and how to use it to your advantage and grow in your career. Spoiler alert, there is a bonus in this episode! I give you access to a free downloadable…
Do you rely on your performance at work to speak for itself? For example, do you go after promotions and believe that people know you, know the hard work you’re putting in and as a result, it will help you land the promotion. Don’t kill the messenger, but you can’t solely rely on your performance when trying to…
2020 Super Bowl Champions. A community on Tik Tok of 42K and growing. Chasing their dreams in the sports industry and helping others do the same. That’s only some of the incredible work that this powerful duo is doing.
I got to sit down with Jayme Floyd, Marketing & Fan Engagement Coordinator, and Sky Whitman,
Negotiating to get what you want in your career can leave you feeling overwhelmed, lack clarity, and make you question your value.
So how do you get what you want out of a negotiation?
When I say those words I automatically feel this fire inside me. Who doesn’t want to get what they want? I know I do!
However, when…
Have you ever seen a job description and felt discouraged because you have no connections? Nobody to help you get past the gatekeepers. Nobody to push your resume in front of the decision-makers.
What I’m about to say next breaks my heart. I’ve had people tell me that there are jobs that they believed they were a…
Do you consider yourself a leader? Remember, you can lead at all of the different stages in your career. It has nothing to do with your authority or your title. It doesn’t matter if you are an intern, coordinator, manager, or executive. My friend, you have the ability to lead from wherever you are.
In this episode,…
Senior Coordinator of Special Projects for U.S. Soccer, Sabrina Alsaffar, has gone through a lot in her incredible journey and she does not hold back in sharing it with us. In this episode, you will certainly laugh a lot. You will be outraged at some of the things she’s gone through. You will feel sheer joy for how…
We all know it’s important to support women at work. Let’s talk about how.
In this episode, I share five tips on how to support women at work. If you do these five things consistently you will be a part of the solution. Not the problem. You will be able to look back at your career and know that you helped other…
Today’s guest has been working in sports since she was 15 years old! 15!
Now, you can find Tina Williams, the Senior Director of Hospitality for rEvolution at events like the Super Bowl, The Masters, and Final Four. The impressive list goes on!
When you listen to this episode, you will agree that Tina has a…
Have you been thinking of investing in a personal career coach? What if you could have part or all of it paid for by your employer? In this episode, I talk about 5 tips to help you get coaching paid for by your company! Don’t forget, when you succeed, so does your company. So there is value in them investing in you….
Y’all know that I love networking. I talk about it all of the time! One reason, it 100% benefits your career growth. I met Kelley Higgins, Vice President of Partnership Marketing for U.S. Soccer through networking! Someone recently introduced us and I couldn’t be more grateful. I’ve already learned from her in the…
Eboni Wilson, Vice President of Guest Experience for UBS Arena, has over 18 years of venue experience. This boss has opened four arenas, two theaters, and has worked in some of the largest markets in the country including Las Vegas, Washington D.C., and New York!
Listen in to our conversation as we discuss:
- How…
I could have talked to today’s guest all day long! Her answers to my questions were thought-provoking and led to such a great discussion. Chelsea Suitos is the Co-Founder and Head of Athlete Branding & Partnerships for Players Collxctive, a boutique sports agency that focuses solely on representing female athletes.
We are high achieving and we didn’t take our jobs to stay in the same position forever. So how do you make sure you are not always seen as the intern, coordinator, or manager?
How do you make sure you are growing within your organization? How do you make sure no matter what level you enter the organization, you…
I first met our next guest when I hosted a Cocktails & Conversation for Women in Sports. She had a fantastic energy about her! So I was not surprised when I learned about her impressive experience in the sports industry with the Miami Dolphins, Sacramento Kings, 49ers, Legends Hospitality with the Cowboys, the Olympics,…
How do you find a job that you want within your organization? Sometimes they don’t exist. Sometimes they exist but they belong to someone else.
Listen to the latest episode of Game of Her Own where I talk about how to find the jobs that you want! Spoiler alert: It involves a lot of behind-the-scenes work. And you…
Implementing change is never easy to do. Add in an organization that is steeped in history and long-standing traditions and it complicates your job even further. It adds a layer of difficulty that not everyone can handle. That is not the case for Sunni Hickman, Vice President of Marketing and Sales for the Harlem…
Join me in celebrating 100 episodes of the Game of Her Own Podcast! In celebration of the 100th episode, my editor and co-producer, Stephani Young, takes the lead and interviews me! I had no idea what she was going to ask me and I didn’t prep. As always I kept it real and was vulnerable in sharing stories about my…
One of my favorite parts of doing this podcast is catching up with old colleagues. Especially those that I met early in their career. I met Caroline when we both worked for the Dodgers where she was the supervisor of Premium Services. Now she is the Vice President of Premium and Member Services for the NY Islanders and…
Some of you told me that growing your network is a goal for 2022! First of all, LOVE IT! Second, you don’t want to miss this episode where I share 10 ways to Grow Your Network. Networking is a long game. But those who are willing to play it are always better for it.
Friend, are you in?
Dionna Widder, Chief Revenue Officer for the Houston Dynamo, Houston Dash, and PNC Stadium was named to the Sports Business Journal Game Changers Class of 2020 and it is no surprise. I can’t wait for you to hear our conversation. Y’all she brings it, and you will be inspired by her determination.
Listen in as we…
The dreaded difficult conversation. Some of us thrive in those situations, others run from it and avoid it altogether. I get it, I’ve been there and have sprinted away from having difficult conversations. I’ve learned the hard way that we are doing ourselves a disservice when we avoid having a difficult…
Let’s jump right into 2022 with the first guest episode! Jaclyn Sklaver came ready to share both the good and the bad to empower other women in sports.
Jaclyn started her own company, Athletes, and has coached over 350 elite-level athletes, including 80 NFL & NBA veterans.
Listen in as Jaclyn talk about:
- Why…
Can you recall a time when you didn’t speak up and immediately felt regret? You know that regret that sticks around and you feel it in your gut. There is no ignoring it.
Is there a time that you used your voice and by speaking up you found that you gained more respect from your manager or colleagues?
The Super Bowl, NFL Draft, & Pro Bowl! Imagine being a part of some of the world’s biggest events. Heather Nanbereg, Director of Event Strategy and Fan Engagement for the NFL has played major roles in all of those events.
Y’all, we jam-packed a lot into 45 minutes! I’ve had the pleasure of working with Heather…
“No one offered me those positions. I had to work for them. I had to advocate for them. I had to ask for them.” -Kara Adams, Director of Guest Experience for the Portland Trail Blazers
Do not miss out on my conversation with Kara. She is real and showed up to give y’all advice to help you take your career to…
How would you rate your 2021? How did you do? Did you reach the goals that you set out to accomplish? Do you get knocked down? Did you get back up and come back stronger?
My question for you: how did you handle it when you got knocked down? It’s crazy how quickly we forget our wins and focus on the misses that we…
Have you ever run into a challenge with managing your direct reports? What about delegating tasks?
I’m giving you a front-row seat to a coaching session I have with my client, Jordan Corbin, Manager of Sports Experiences for On Location.
Jordan is a first-time manager and came to me to make sure she gets it…
What would happen if you let go of trying to be what you think people want and just be yourself?
Brooke Weisbrod talks about her incredible journey to becoming a sports broadcaster for ESPN. She opens up about what happened when she finally let go of trying to be what she thought people wanted and showed up…
We are taking a little break to enjoy the holidays, but didn’t want to leave you hanging! We are taking you back in time to episode 31 of the Game of Her Own podcast with Atlanta Braves’ Executive, DeRetta Rhodes.
Since the interview, DeRetta has had two new titles added to the already impressive list. World Series…
We are taking a little break to enjoy the holidays, but didn’t want to leave you hanging! We are taking you back in time to episode 14 of the Game of Her Own podcast. We hope you have a safe and happy holiday!
Our voice is one of the greatest tools that you have. Qiava Martinez, an executive with the Las Vegas…
I’m giving you a front-row seat to listen in to a strategy session I have with one of my clients, Lauren Baca.
From a young age, Lauren has naturally been drawn to the impact sports have on the community. So much so she has always pictured herself in that very role.
However, as she interviews for jobs in the Community…
Let’s talk DEI shall we!
DEI Consultant, Traci Baxley and I sit down and talk about all the things I’ve heard from you when it comes to challenges you face with DEI at your organization.
Listen in as we talk about
- How to make sure DEI is more than checking a box
- Why corporations might need support in creating…
Have you ever thought about making a transition in your career to something totally different?
Before you start, listen to this episode of Game of Her Own where I talk about “how to” get it done. It’s not always easy, but you owe it to yourself to go after what you want.
You got this and I’m here to…
Do you feel like you need to have all of the answers? Let me tell you, that way of thinking slowed me down early in my career.
I got to spend some time with Marcell Bhangoo, Senior Vice President Client & Sponsor Services for the Boston Red Sox and she talks about some great topics that will make you pause and assess…
Have you thought about creating a new role for yourself? Then you don’t want to miss this episode! I share some tactics to support you as you boldly go after exactly what you want. It’s not easy creating a new position and I don’t want you to go at it alone. This episode is packed with tips and a lot of free…
There is no shortage of conversation about mental health. I’m sure you hear a lot of talk about the importance of focusing on mental health in the workplace, leaving you wondering how to take action. Don’t worry, I got you!
I got to spend some time chatting with Lindsay Recknell, President and CEO of Mental…
You have put too much work into…
Confidence. During my career, I didn’t always have it when I needed it most. The turning point was when I focused on developing my confidence muscle. Leading high-performing teams, public speaking, pitching ideas, and advocating for myself became easier as my confidence strengthened.
You have put too much work into…
Katrina Campbell, Assistant Athletic Director for Equipment for North Carolina A&T State University, is incredible and will leave you feeling inspired. Katrina is one of my coaching clients and when we finish our strategy sessions she leaves me feeling inspired! I know you will feel the same way after listening to…
Speaking up at work will 100% help your career trajectory, but so often we don’t speak up at work. We don’t use our voices. Let’s change that. So you can be seen and heard at work. So you can make a difference. So people can see the badass that you are. And, you can have the trajectory in your career that we both…
Have you ever thought about trying to get a job and thought to yourself, why would they want me? If you have, you’re not alone. Stephanie Maneikis, Vice President of Fan Services & Entertainment, battled that limiting belief when she was going after her first job with the Red Sox. Luckily she didn’t let it stop her…
We are taking a little break to enjoy the end of the summer but didn’t want to leave you hanging! We are taking you back in time to episode 1 of the Game of Her Own podcast. We will be back next Thursday with a new episode. We hope you have a safe and happy long holiday weekend.
If you’re currently thinking, I…
Where do you even begin when it comes to starting your own business? Whether it’s a side hustle or a full-time business there are so many factors to think about. The list can be endless.
In the last episode of the Off the Beaten Path series, I give a peek behind the curtain of my business and talk about five areas…
Exhausting, defeating, and emotionally draining are just some of the ways my clients describe searching for a job. It’s no secret that the job market in the sports industry is HOT right now. However, the demand still outweighs the job opportunities.
So how do you keep yourself from feeling defeated,…
If you dream of being a part of the C-Suite one day (maybe you already are) you are going to love hearing from Portia Archer, Chief Operating Officer of the NBA G League. Let’s get real for a minute, even if you don’t dream of having “Chief” in your title, you’re still going to love hearing from Portia!
Only 3 years out of college and Caity is already the Director of Corporate Partnership Activation for New Mexico United.
What I love about my conversation with Caity is not only did she share her wins over the past three years, she was open and honest about things like imposter syndrome or being nervous when it was…
Burnout, lack of boundaries, and an unhealthy diet are just some of the things we battle while we are focused on having a successful career. We’ve all been there. Including Chioma Atanmo, Founder, Nutritionist & Wellness Coach for Mindful Appetite. Not only does Chioma run her own business, she is also the Manager of…
How it started: Intern at Octagon
How it’s going: Vice President of Communications at Octagon
Alyssa Romano opens up about her eleven-year career at Octagon from intern to executive and drops some incredible advice. Listen in as we talk about:
- How she grew even though she was told there was no set path for her
- How…
Can you imagine building a Sports & Entertainment division at an agency? Mary Scott, President of United Entertainment Group did just that. You don’t want to miss a second of her journey from the NFL to where she is now.
Listen in as we talk about
- How she closed the knowledge gap in one of her first jobs in sports
Julie Donaldson, Senior Vice President of Media & Content for the Washington Football Team, is the first female to be a regular on-air member of an NFL radio broadcast booth and I’m certain she won’t be the last!
Listen in as we talk about:
- How she took a $50 job and launched her career in sports
- The moment…
You don’t want to miss my conversation with Raquel Ferreira, EVP & Assistant General Manager. She is the fourth female to hold the title of Assistant General Manager in a baseball operations department in Major League Baseball.
No surprise Racquel kept it 100% real during our conversation. Listen in as we…
Off the Beaten Path is continuing through the summer!
On the last Thursday of the month, you will hear a story about a woman who works in sports. The best part, she’s not only a part of the organization…she created it!
I can’t wait for you to hear from our latest Off The Beaten Path guest, Laura Dixon, Founder…
Her superpower is that she doesn’t get anxious. SAY WHAT?! Envy washed over me when I heard this, followed by curiosity…and we dive in!
Listen in to my conversation with Alexandria Price as we talk about:
-How she got over imposter syndrome
-Why she doesn’t get anxious
-How to get coworkers to see you as more…
Don’t miss my incredible conversation with Jené Elzie as she shares her wisdom with you. With three decades of experience as a sports and entertainment executive, you can imagine that whatever she shares is absolute 🔥🔥🔥🔥!
Highlight reel from our conversation:
-How she got her foot in the door at the…
Can people feel your passion when you’re talking?
Bridget Gannon, Senior Director, Social Impact & Events at National Basketball Retired Players Association is passionate about her work and you can feel it in everything she says!
Listen in as we talk about:
-The impact the Legends Care initiative has on youth…
How do you show up for yourself? Do you put yourself first?
What do you need to do in order to show up at work and absolutely crush it? Join me for the last of the May pep talks as I talk about putting yourself first.
Thank you for celebrating our birthday month! That’s Game of Her Own who turned one on May 21…
Are you comfortable with speaking truth to power?
Angela LaChica, CEO and Founder of LaChica Sports & Entertainment Group, certainly has mastered speaking truth to power! One example, she achieved national recognition in 2016 as one of the lead negotiators behind the scenes for the NFL’s $89 million multi-year…
Are you nervous about having a difficult conversation? I’ve been there and wasted so much energy! I 100% don’t want you to waste your time. It’s not worth it.
The latest Sunday pep talk is about having a difficult conversation. It’s time to get comfortable with being uncomfortable!
Don’t forget, to celebrate…
Leading from where you are, being comfortable saying no, leading high functioning teams….and the list goes on! Nancy Atufunwa takes us on her incredible journey in sports from when it all began to her role now as Director of Marketing for USA Water Polo.
Don’t miss our great conversation where Nancy shares:
Do you show up as your authentic self? Every single day? It’s not always easy. I get it, I’ve been there. I will tell you from experience when you don’t show up as your authentic self, it’s exhausting and nothing good comes of it. All the good stuff FINALLY comes when you show up as yourself.
Join me as I…
Hallelujah! We are seeing a shift in the job market in the sports industry!
Tell me this. How are you feeling about your cover letter and resume writing skills? What about writing blogs?
Tune in to my conversation with Sara Salam, former HR professional for the Boston Red Sox and LA Clippers turned author of ten…
Do you get a pit in your stomach when you have to give a presentation?
You’re not alone! It makes sense. You are a high-achieving woman and I know you want to crush absolutely everything you do! So the pit in your stomach is an unwanted friend. The nervousness and anxiety are unwanted emotions.
Join me for a bonus…
If you were stepping into an executive role for the very first time would you have any fears?
Samia Mahjub was named Vice President of Business Strategy & Analytics for the Milwaukee Brewers in February 2020 and she shares why there was no fear around stepping into the role.
Listen in as we talk about:
-What you…
We aren’t doing that anymore. I’m talking about not speaking up in meetings.
It’s May and guess what? It’s Game of Her Own’s birthday month!! Bonus…it’s also my birthday month.
To celebrate, every Sunday during the month of May, I will release a bonus pep talk episode! I know we all love a good pep…
Do you want to know what it’s like to start your own business in the sports industry? Celia Newman and Christian Ross-Francis are going to tell you what it’s like!
Listen in as I chat with the co-founders of Up Next Consulting about:
-What it’s like to work with athletes
-The scariest part of starting…
Do you have the courage to lead with vulnerability?
Amy McDevitt, Senior Vice President of Marquee Sports Network, talks about why vulnerability is the key to leading a team. April is Autism Awareness month and she opens up and shares that both of her boys, ages two & five, were diagnosed with Autism a year ago. She…
When it comes to your career do you live in the present moment? Do you lead from where you are? It’s not always easy to do it, but Charmelle Green shares how that approach has worked for her throughout her career.
Listen in as we talk about:
-Why she always lives in the moment
-What you should focus on…
What would you do if you found out you were offered $35,000 less than a male counterpart? Pam Kenn, Senior Vice President of Community, Alumni and Player Relations, gets real candid and tells us exactly what she did when that happened to her.
You don’t want to miss this super honest conversation!
Is this your break-out year?
Is this the year you level-up your career? Are you ready to make some moves but have a lot of things swirling around in your head? Not sure how to go about it?
If you want to take control and get exactly what you want out of your career you 100% can do that. Now. Today. You no longer have…
Don’t you feel inspired when you see women forging their path and boldly stepping into entrepreneurship? SAME!!
It’s why I’m excited to introduce a new series, Off the Beaten Path! Once a month during the Spring, you will hear from women who have taken a leap of faith and started their own business in the…
Do you dream about your work making an impact not only in your organization but in your industry and beyond?
Janet Marie Smith, an Executive with the Los Angeles Dodgers, has 100% done this throughout her career! Don’t miss the latest episode of Game of Her Own and listen in as Janet Marie drops some wisdom as she…
Do you have the power to create a position that doesn’t exist?
The answer is HELL YES! And Megan Donovan of the Chicago Bulls is going to tell you just how she did it!
Listen in as Megan talks about:
-Why you need to have a consultant mindset
-How to handle the learning curve
-What happens when you…
Are you happy in your career? Truly happy?
My biggest takeaway from this episode with Kathryn Tappen, Host and Reporter for NBC Sports Group, is that she puts happiness first! I think we all know that’s not easy as we go after what we want in such a competitive industry. You don’t want to miss my conversation…
If you’re not bringing your authentic self to work, who are you bringing? It’s got to be exhausting being someone else.
On this week’s episode of Game Of Her Own, I chat with Fran Weld and we talk about all the things including why it is critical to be your authentic self!
Emily Jaenson.The first female in almost 20 years to earn the role of GM in Triple A Baseball.
I think I can just end the notes here with that sentence. But I will give you a preview of my incredible conversation with Emily:
-What goes into being a GM
-The most challenging part of leading a team and how she tackles…
Do you want a promotion? Are you ready to have the conversation with your Manager?
I’m here for it and I want to make sure that you don’t make these 4 mistakes when asking for a promotion. Join me as I share 4 things that you shouldn’t do when it comes to making the big ask for a promotion and why it’s OK to…
Happy National Girls & Women in Sports Day! What better way to celebrate the holiday than with a bonus episode with the highest-ranking woman in a men’s professional sports league. Jessica Berman, Deputy Commissioner & Executive Vice President of Business Affairs for the National Lacrosse League.
Listen in as Jessica…
How well do you know yourself? I know that may seem like a strange question, but Dr. B talks about why actively learning about yourself will help your professional growth.
I’m so excited for you to listen to my conversation with Dr. B! She shares some amazing nuggets! I’m talking gold!
Listen in as we…
Is there something missing in your career? How are you going to handle it?
Jen Wolf, Life Skills Coordinator for the Cleveland Indians, noticed that a certain level of support was missing from her career, so she went out and created it herself. A woman after my own heart.
Listen in as Jen, who by the way was my…
Do you show up as your authentic self?
Andrea Nunez, Strength and Conditioning Coach for the Los Angeles Angels shows up as her authentic self every single day and she is going to tell you how she does it! During this episode, she will make you laugh. She will make you cry. And she will leave you…
How would you rate your mental fitness?
Are you ready to take it up a notch? Yes? Well, friend – let’s do it! Hannah Huesman, Mental Skills Coach for the Philadelphia Phillies is an absolute POWERHOUSE!!! She has a critical role where she works directly with the players.
But listen, it’s not only the players…
I know that some of you hate the thought of networking. It may make you feel uncomfortable, awkward, salesy or bothersome. But you may have noticed, the common denominator for the guests on the Game of Her Own podcast is that their network played a huge role in their success.
If one of your goals this year is to step…
Forbes 30 Under 30! Take an idea from a side hustle to a full-time successful business! Unite a community of 160,000 (and growing) sports fans with female voices! These are things that some people only dream about doing!
But it is exactly what Ellen Hyslop and her co-founders at The GIST did. I was SO EXCITED that…
The Super Bowl, NFL Draft, & Pro Bowl! Imagine being a part of some of the world’s biggest events. Heather Nanbereg, Director of Event Strategy and Fan Engagement for the NFL has played major roles in all of those events.
Y’all, we jam-packed a lot into 45 minutes! I’ve had the pleasure of working with Heather…
“I want people who look like me to have opportunities to get to their highest potential.” – DeRetta Rhodes, Senior Executive for the Atlanta Braves
This conversation is packed with incredible insights as DeRetta gets candid and talks about her journey to becoming the extraordinary senior leader she is today. Not…
Our journeys are not meant to be perfect. We are going to fail. It’s inevitable. It’s not the failure that defines you, it’s what you do after that does.
I know there are so many of you that are hurting because you’ve been fired or are worried about being fired because of COVID.
I’ve been there and I…
“I should be in that room, I have a different opinion. Here is why you should listen to me.” – MLB Executive & 2019 SBJ Game Changer Melanie LeGrande
Whatever your level is, you will walk away with some great nuggets on leveling up your career. This highly competitive executive takes us through her journey in…
“No one offered me those positions. I had to work for them. I had to advocate for them. I had to ask for them.” -Kara Adams, Director of Guest Experience for the Portland Trail Blazers
Do not miss out on my conversation with Kara. She is real and showed up to give y’all advice to help you take your career to…
Self-awareness, being part of a team and work-life harmony are just a few of the topics that Jahaan and Kim Stone discuss during their inspiring conversation. Kim is the Golden State Warriors’ General Manager of the Chase Center and she has 30 years of sports and entertainment experience. She gives tangible examples…
It’s hard to believe that Yvonne Carrasco Chalmé ever experienced self-doubt in her career journey because today, as the Senior Director of Baseball at the Wasserman (a position she created), she’s more confident than ever. The moments of self-doubt she experienced shaped her and helped guide her when she was…
What is Mindfulness? To Libby Rapin, Mindfulness and Meditation Coach, it is the simple and most effective tool that people can apply to their life to begin seeing results quickly. It’s paying attention, on purpose, in the present moment, non-judgmentally.
Now is the time to focus on self-care. Libby describes how…
Whatever your job is, you have to do it with a good attitude – that’s just one piece of advice that Dawn Pattillo, Graphics Operator for the NFL Network, offers during her conversation with Jahaan. Dawn quit her full-time job, took a chance on herself, mastered the world of freelancing and now, she’s sharing what…
Stepping outside of your comfort zone can often be intimidating, but Elle Kehoe, the Vice President, Volunteer Program and Event Strategy at Miami Super Bowl Host Committee, has always pushed herself to do that and that’s where she’s found success. It’s even landed her roles with the Super Bowl and the Olympics!…
Toyya Lassere’s route to get to her current role as Director of Guest Experience for SoFi Stadium and Hollywood Park was definitely unique. She started her own business in the Bahamas at the age of 17, moved to LA on her own at the age of 19 and if you can believe it, her road to the sports industry gets even more…
Get ready because you’re about to learn a lot with communications expert, Susan Oguche. She offers so many valuable strategies on navigating a career in the sports industry. She discusses how she’s made her career work with a family, how and why she stays active on LinkedIn and how to show your value at work…
