Full Time with Meg Linehan: A show about women's soccer

It's NWSL championship week! It's team continuity vs. team chaos. To get ready for Saturday's final between the Orlando Pride and the Washington Spirit, Full Time is tracing each NWSL club's journey to the final at CPKC Stadium in Kansas City. Hosts Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan are joined by The Athletic's Steph Yang and Emily Olsen to get a deeper look at both clubs and speak to the experts who have covered the teams up close. Who are the characters that make these teams so special? What have been the key turning points in a turbulent 2024 season? What would winning a NWSL championship mean to each club? Where could the final be won and lost? _______________ Washington Spirit outlast Gotham FC in penalty kicks to advance to NWSL final Marta delivers GOAT goal to lift Orlando Pride to NWSL Championship Washington Spirit owner Michele Kang pledges $30 million to women’s soccer programs Orlando Pride’s Seb Hines wins NWSL Coach of the Year ahead of championship A year after missing playoffs, Pride and Spirit meet in NWSL Championship _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan GUESTS: Steph Yang, Emily Olsen PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's NWSL Playoff Semifinal week! So, on this episode of Full Time, Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan caught up with Washington Spirit and USWNT midfielder Hal Hershfelt ahead of her team's knockout match against Gotham FC. They talked about adjusting to life in the pros, the special home crowd at Audi Field, coffee stories from Paris, why she loves to play with a "dawg" mentality, and more! After that great conversation, The Athletic's Jeff Rueter stopped by to analyze the NWSL's end-of-year awards. Who is on the shortlist? Who got snubbed? On what criteria do you judge an MVP? Will Tamerra, Meg, and Jeff all agree? As well as all that, there's still time to unpack Lily Yohannes' decision to play for the USA, the Canada drone investigation report, and even more NWSL Playoff talk. _______________ Gotham FC’s home playoff win exemplifies its ‘swell of momentum’ on and off the field Lily Yohannes picks USWNT over Netherlands: What Ajax teen’s decision means for Emma Hayes’ squad Canada Women’s coaches ‘directed, approved and condoned’ using drones to spy on opponents, report finds _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan GUESTS: Hal Hershfelt, Jeff Rueter PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Full Time Review! Your weekly recap of the NWSL weekend in nearly the same amount of time as a VAR review at Red Bull Arena. Tamerra Griffin breaks down all four NWSL Playoff Quarterfinals. Although we didn't see any upsets, there was plenty of drama, a comeback, extra time, and big goals from the league's MVP contenders Barbra Banda and Temwa Chawinga Speaking of Red Bull Arena, Meg Linehan pops in for a dispatch from New Jersey, where she saw Gotham overcome the Portland Thorns and the legendary Christine Sinclair officially play her final-ever match as a soccer player. _______________ HOST: Tamerra Griffin GUESTS: Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The NWSL Playoffs are finally here. On this edition of Full Time, Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan analyze everything you need to know on all four of the opening weekend's quarterfinals. Former player turned broadcaster Lori Lindsey also joins the podcast to help out in the discussion. It's crunch time. Who are the favorites to advance to the semifinals? In a season without much parity, do any of the lower seeds stand a chance? How did the 2024 season start for each team, and how did it end? What intangibles might cause one to think twice about certain playoff teams? PLUS: Tamerra and Meg unveil their '2024 Playoff Bingo Card' as a fun way to manifest some special moments during the postseason, while also opening up about a heavy week in the U.S. _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan GUEST: Lori Lindsey PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Full Time Review! Your weekly recap of the NWSL weekend & more in less time than a weather delay in Houston, Texas. Tamerra Griffin has the latest on Bay FC and Portland Thorns locking in the two remaining playoff spots, and what the full quarterfinal slate now looks like. Live from Providence Park, Steph Yang chimes in on the bittersweet goodbye to Christine Sinclair. Then, Meg Linehan talks about Snapdragon Stadium's pitch safety issues in San Diego. Before closing out, Tamerra touches on the FIFA U17 Women's World Cup, the COSAFA, and a gigantic club clash in France. _______________ HOST: Tamerra Griffin GUESTS: Meg Linehan, Steph Yang PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On this edition of Full Time, Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan evaluate what we know about the five expansion bids to become the 16th team in the NWSL. What is the league looking for when it comes to bids? How important is location, an independently owned stadium, an enticing media market or deep pockets? While Tamerra and Meg try to answer that, they also play a quick game of build your own NWSL expansion club. Where will their fictional clubs be located? And, who will be their celebrity owner and marquee player? PLUS: Previewing the final weekend of the NWSL regular season, what the three remaining playoff hopefuls need, a final Portland goodbye for Christine Sinclair, Ballon d'Or takeaways, and producer Theo hops on to try and make sense of the Summer Cup. _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Ballon d’Or misses mark with timing … again. Plus, a breakout USWNT star? What it’s like to vote for Ballon d’Or Feminin: The Athletic’s Steph Yang shares some insight NWSL expansion: Where things stand as the league looks to add a 16th team _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Full Time Review! This time, a FIFA international window edition. Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan recap the USWNT's two friendlies against Iceland, as well as analyze some of the best individual performances and most intriguing takeaways. Then, hear from The Athletic's Megan Feringa, who was at Wembley Stadium to watch England lose 4-3 to Germany in a match she dubbed a "wake-up call" to Lionesses manager Sarina Wiegman. After that, Tamerra runs through a couple of other major talking points from around the globe and the latest on NWSL coaching hires and the Summer Cup final. _______________ HOST: Tamerra Griffin GUESTS: Meg Linehan, Megan Feringa PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Change is upon us. In the NWSL and on the U.S. women's national team. This week, on the Full Time podcast, Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan delve into what this means both on and off the pitch. Who will step into the spotlight? Who will be the new culture bearer? Who has that dawg in them? What should fans be looking out for as Emma Hayes utilizes an experimental roster during the October international friendlies? A new generation is taking over as legends take one final bow and retire. Now over a decade old, the NWSL is the first U.S. women's soccer league to reach this natural point in a cycle. There's also the matter of the Chicago Red Stars' rebrand, featuring a new crest and name: Chicago Stars FC. Steph Yang joins the podcast fresh from speaking to club executives about the intentional decisions that went behind the controversial move. Then, Chicago native and CBS Sports writer and broadcaster Sandra Herrera pops in to share her perspective from the Windy City. _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan GUESTS: Steph Yang, Sandra Herrera PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Rueter: Fans chose the Red Stars’ name years ago. Now, Chicago is leaving both behind Chicago Red Stars unveil new name and crest, dropping ‘Red’ and ushering in next chapter Desiree Scott on retiring after six months of heartbreak: ‘You kind of know it’s coming’ USWNT head coach Emma Hayes names 26-player roster for October friendlies Orlando Pride’s Marta says she wants to play ‘at least two more years’ _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to the Full Time Review! The Athletic's Monday morning podcast that brings you a recap of the weekend's NWSL action and more from the women's soccer world in under 15 minutes. This week, Tamerra Griffin set the scene as big wins for Racing Louisville and Bay FC meant that the final two NWSL playoff spots are still up for grabs. Would it even be a Full Time podcast if we didn't talk about Temwa Chawinga? We have the latest on the record-breaking KC Current forward, who scored her 20th goal of the season against the San Diego Wave and by doing so completed a sweep of notching at least one goal against all 13 opposing clubs in the league. Plus: The rest of the chaos from around the NWSL, a continental champion was crowned in South America, and some WNBA-NWSL crossover. _______________ HOST: Tamerra Griffin GUEST: Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On one of the most jam-packed Full Time podcasts ever, Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan unpack the team name launch of the Boston-based BOS Nation FC, the NWSL's 15th expansion club. What was behind the now redacted 'Too Many Balls' marketing campaign? Who are the owners trying to appeal to? How will Boston look to make amends after hurting its fanbase, and current players in the league, during a tumultuous 48 hours? Adding an on-the-ground perspective, Steph Yang joined the podcast fresh from attending the BOS Nation launch event, where she spoke to the Boston Unity Soccer Partners ownership group as well as local fan groups. Later on, it was time to give Temwa Chawinga her flowers. Tamerra spoke with the record-breaking woman of the moment and fellow KC Current teammate Mwanalima Jereko. Last week, Chawinga scored her 19th goal of the 2024 season, breaking Sam Kerr's record of 18 in a single NWSL season. The two African-born players talked about their chosen family sisterhood as teammates, their favorite foods that African fans bring for them after matches, the secrets behind their joyous goal celebrations, and what the real Chawinga is like off the pitch. Plus, San Diego Wave and the NWSL are being sued by five former Wave employees, and Merritt Mathias announced her retirement. _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan GUESTS: Steph Yang, Temwa Chawinga, Mwanalima Jereko PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ San Diego Wave and NWSL face discrimination lawsuit filed by five former club employees Merritt Mathias will retire as a truly authentic NWSL original Linehan: Boston NWSL club misses the mark with BOS Nation FC and marketing campaign Boston NWSL team to be known as BOS Nation Football Club, with green as primary color BOS Nation, a publicity campaign gone wrong and an apology for the hurt it caused _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome back to Full Time Review, your Monday recap of all the best women's soccer action from the weekend in under 15 minutes. This week, Theo Lloyd-Hughes rounds up the NWSL weekend, starting with the Portland Thorns stunning the Orlando Pride on Friday night, and handing Seb Hines' team their first defeat in over a year. Then, the Kansas City Current's Temwa Chawinga continued her extraordinary 2024 when she smashed home her 19th goal of the season against Bay FC — breaking the record for the most goals ever in an NWSL season by doing so. Meg Linehan pops in to go deeper on why the big goals and milestones this weekend mean so much, and the emotion that erupted from Christen Press getting on the scoresheet for the first time this season for Angel City. To close out, The Athletic's Art de Roche reports from London to give an update on the increased pressure on Arsenal head coach Jonas Eidevall following a 2-1 defeat to Chelsea in the WSL. _______________ HOST: Theo Lloyd-Hughes GUEST: Meg Linehan, Art de Roche PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The unbeaten Orlando Pride has just lifted the 2024 NWSL Shield. But their history, on the pitch, in this league is one filled with many more downs than ups. This week on Full Time, Meg Linehan and Steph Yang trace the Pride's journey from an awkward expansion club, to now sitting at the top of the standings at the end of an unprecedented 2024 season. To help answer the question of how Orlando achieved this transformation, general manager Haley Carter joined the show to take us inside the Pride's emergence since her arrival in January 2023. What kind of soccer club did Carter see when she walked in the door? How have the players changed and adapted to her and head coach Seb Hines' management style? Plus, Steph reports back from her one-on-one with Commissioner Jessica Berman and the additional information she learned about the Angel City points deductions. What does it mean for the rest of the league, and the NWSL's image regarding rule-breaking? There's also time to preview the upcoming NWSL weekend, the Portland Thorns' plans to make a change at GM, and whether Temwa Chawinga will hit goal number 19! _______________ HOST: Meg Linehan GUEST: Steph Yang, Haley Carter PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Angel City salary-cap violation was revealed by former player, says NWSL commissioner Portland Thorns’ Karina LeBlanc leaving GM role at end of season Spirit’s Andi Sullivan out for season with torn ACL: What it means for ailing squad ahead of playoffs _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the first-ever edition of Full Time Review! A new podcast from The Athletic that brings you a quick review of all the weekend’s NWSL action in under 15 minutes. Every Monday, we'll keep you updated on the biggest news stories, results, off-field moments, breathtaking goals, press conference reactions, and maybe some tidbits from Europe and international matches too. On the inaugural episode, Meg Linehan was joined by Steph Yang, who was in Orlando on Sunday night to witness Marta and the Pride lift their first-ever NWSL Shield. It was a soggy, emotional, and historic night to remember in central Florida. After that, Meg breaks down the crucial details of Angel City's unprecedented sanctions for breaching the salary cap rules, Temwa Chawinga equaling Sam Kerr's single-season goal record, and so much more from a suitably busy weekend in the NWSL. _______________ HOST: Meg Linehan GUEST: Steph Yang PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's all to play for. With four matches of the NWSL regular season remaining, it's time we got serious about the teams still trying to book their tickets to the postseason. This week on Full Time, Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan break down the four teams, the Chicago Red Stars, the Portland Thorns, Bay FC, and Racing Louisville, that are trying to squeeze into the final three NWSL playoff spots (sixth, seventh and, eighth place in the standings). What are the major questions that need answering? How will form and injuries come into play? Which team is trending up at crunch time? And, which is falling apart at the worst possible moment? During the show, NWSL Best XI candidate Taylor Flint stopped by to take us inside her impressive season, the positional tweaks she has had to incorporate under head coach Bev Yanez, as well as offer a behind-the-scenes view of Racing Louisville's quest for a first-ever playoff berth. All of that plus Fran Alonso departing the Houston Dash, Christine Sinclair's retirement announcement, UWCL Group Stage draw takeaways, and a new NWSL Shield trophy! _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan GUEST: Taylor Flint PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Articles mentioned on the podcast: Emma Hayes tours the U.S: Players the USWNT coach could consider for the team’s future NWSL, Tiffany & Co. unveil redesigned Shield, MVP awards: ‘The most majestic, iconic trophies’ NC Courage's Hurricane Helene relief efforts with United Way _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Fresh from their best finish at a U-20 World Cup in over 10 years, it is time to take a closer look at the state of the women's USYNT. On a very special episode of Full Time, Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan were joined by three guests to go deeper into the world of U-20 international soccer. Former USWNT legend Heather O'Reilly hopped on the podcast to talk about her time spent working for FIFA in Colombia at the U-20 World Cup, and the data behind the nations that impressed at the tournament. Then, former U-20 USWNT head coach Laura Harvey explained some of the key cultural and technical changes that have slowly been developed at the U.S. soccer federation over the past half-decade. In 2024, how important are pathways to the senior team and principles of play when it comes to the youth levels? Finally, the current head coach of the U-20 USWNT, Tracey Kevins, discussed the instantly legendary campaign, some of the special moments the team shared along the way, and all the emotions of the 'Miracle in Cali' -- which saw the USA storm back from 2-0 down in second half stoppage time to beat Germany. If all that wasn't enough, there's still a bit of time on the podcast for Tamerra and Meg to unpack Twila Kilgore's departure from the USWNT setup and the biggest NWSL matchup of the weekend. _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan GUESTS: Heather O'Reilly, Laura Harvey, Tracey Kevins PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week's Full Time podcast has a bit of a Seattle feel. Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan caught up with Seattle Reign general manager Lesle Gallimore to learn more about how the NWSL club's recent ownership change has affected their 2024 season in both frustrating and exciting ways. Gallimore also opened up about her decision to feature in the new Netflix documentary 'Untold: Hope Solo vs. U.S. Soccer' -- she unpacked some of her feelings on the legendary USWNT goalkeeper too. Before being at the helm of the Reign, Gallimore was at the University of Washington for 25 seasons. There, she coached Solo in the early 2000s. Tamerra and Meg also weighed in on the documentary and some of its glaring journalistic deficiencies. After all that, there's still time to talk NJ/NY Gotham FC becoming the first NWSL club to visit the White House, the curiosities of ESPN's GM survey, and the return of the English Women's Super League. _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan GUEST: Lesle Gallimore PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Articles mentioned on the podcast: Gotham FC will be the first NWSL team to visit the White House for championship celebration Are Sonia Bompastor’s new-look Chelsea ready for their WSL title defence? _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In San Diego, CA, on a sweltering Sunday in September, Alex Morgan hung up her cleats. With just a few days' notice, the two-time World Cup winner, Olympic gold-medalist, and NWSL Champion said goodbye to playing soccer. On this week's episode of the Full Time podcast, it's all about digging into this moment. Starting with Morgan's retirement video, which sent shockwaves around the world, and finally, the extraordinary emotional serenade that saw her walk off into the sunset. Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan -- who was reporting from San Diego, having flown out to witness history at Snapdragon Stadium up close -- grapple with everything leading up to Sunday's finale as well as the send-off match itself. Also on the show, broadcaster and former NWSL player Jordan Angeli stopped by to talk about what it was like to commentate on the final-ever Alex Morgan match, while also reminiscing about playing alongside the USA legend back when she was breaking out in the early 2010s. _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan GUEST: Jordan Angeli PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Articles mentioned on the podcast: Alex Morgan ends soccer career with a final 13 minutes for the Wave against the Courage Alex Morgan’s final NWSL game to be presented across multiple channels, streaming services Alex Morgan reminisces before final game: ‘I hope my legacy is that I pushed the game forward’ Alex Morgan, USWNT and NWSL star, announces retirement from soccer, pregnant with second child _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With 2025 NWSL free agents officially being able to negotiate with new clubs as of September 1st, it was a good time for the Full Time podcast to do a deep dive on the players set to hit the market. Whether you're a general manager in training or a first-time free agency enjoyer, Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan break down all the key concepts, and things you need to know. Then, the duo takes a look back at the first two years of NWSL free agency and what might look different in 2025. Tamerra and Meg also threw out some of the marquee names fans need to be watching and then were joined on the show by The Athletic's Jeff Rueter who offered up some of his data analysis to highlight some of the secret superstars that are ready to make a splash in 2025 free agency. All that, plus the latest talking points on the Ballon D'or nominations, a wild record-breaking weekend in the NWSL, and the podcast's favorite transfers of the league's summer window that just closed last week. _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan GUEST: Jeff Rueter PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Articles mentioned on the podcast: NWSL free agency watchlist: Standouts who could capitalize on career-best seasons Midge Purce and Sophie Schmidt are free agents – here’s what that means _______________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, a trio of top European clubs toured the United States. But why? Meg Linehan and Steph Yang unpack why Arsenal, Barcelona, and Chelsea's women's teams are making sure to have pre-season friendlies across the Atlantic, and what the trend might be a sign of bigger things to come. What can we learn from analyzing both the on-pitch and off-pitch strategy? Should we be talking more about player load and fixture congestion? Is the NWSL a threat or an inspiration to the WSL's commercial targets? Having been in Washington D.C. to cover Arsenal and Chelsea's co-tour, Steph expands on what she learned from spending time with the WSL coaches. She also shares some of the details of cross-club business growth from her sit down with Washington Spirit owner Michelle Kang. One of The Athletic's Arsenal writers, Are de Roché then joined the podcast to compare and contrast previous U.S. tours involving the Gunners' men's team. In addition to all that, there's also time to talk about the Abby Dahlkemper trade, Megan Rapinoe's jersey retirement, and so much more NWSL action. _______________ HOST: Meg Linehan GUEST: Steph Yang, Art de Roché PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Articles mentioned on the podcast: Michele Kang’s global investment in women’s soccer on display with Arsenal, Chelsea friendlies NWSLPA announces initial list of players eligible for league’s first free agency under new CBA ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It is another monumental day for the National Women's Soccer League Players Association. On Thursday, the NWSLPA announced that it had agreed terms for a new collective bargaining agreement through the 2030 season. The new CBA is effective immediately and comes just two years after the NWSL and its players signed the first-ever union contract in the league's history. So, on this week's Full Time podcast, Meg Linehan and Steph Yang broke down what this landmark CBA means for the league and the players. From new minimum salaries to the major decision to abolish the draft, and a milestone revenue-sharing model. Why change the CBA now? And why these specific changes? Later on, to help take the listener inside the negotiations, NWSL PA representative and North Carolina Courage midfielder Brianna Pinto also joined the podcast. She shared the players' point of view on how the new CBA was drawn up, what demands were essential for a better league, and what it was like to be a part of the five-player group that went to the table with the league to broker the deal this past July. Before closing out the show, Meg and Steph give their thoughts on the San Diego Wave's hiring of Landon Donovan as the club's new interim head coach. While also debating what the new CBA means for the teams at the bottom of the NWSL standings. Which of the struggling clubs (if any) will be able to crash the playoffs? _______________ HOST: Meg Linehan GUEST: Steph Yang, Brianna Pinto PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen _______________ Articles & previous shows mentioned on the pod: 2022 Full-Time episode: Let's Break Down The NWSL CBA! NWSL Players Association ratifies first collective bargaining agreement Why USL Super League isn’t looking to compete with NWSL: What to expect from new league Landon Donovan acknowledges ‘steep’ NWSL learning curve as Wave’s interim head coach ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

From a café in Paris, Meg Linehan sat down with NWSL commissioner Jessica Berman for a special one-on-one interview episode. The conversation focused on how the league is strategizing to maximize the impact of the 2024 Paris Olympics. Can the NWSL build on the success of the gold medal-winning U.S. women's national team, as well as dozens of high-profile foreign players who featured in Paris? With the second half of the NWSL regular season beginning on August 23, how much of a catalyst could these Games be? With a renewed vision to be the best league in the world, Berman shared her thoughts on Naomi Girma, Marta, the power of joy, club ownership, the importance of marketing, "Super Bowl-esque events" and more. This bonus episode of the Full Time podcast was recorded on the eve of the 2024 women's Olympic soccer final, which eventually saw the USWNT secure a memorable 1-0 win over Brazil. _______________ HOST: Meg Linehan GUEST: Jessica Berman PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Subscribe to the Full Time newsletter here. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Your 2024 Paris Olympic champions are the U.S. women's national team. On the final Olympic reaction podcast, Tamerra Griffin and Steph Yang dissect how Emma Hayes' players ground out a nervy and choppy 1-0 win in the final over Brazil. Was this USA team redeeming the 2023 World Cup failure or is that an unfair lens to view the triumph through? Just how huge was goalkeeper Alyssa Naeher at the tournament? Are the USWNT ahead of schedule in terms of their development under Hayes? From the Parc des Princes stadium in France, Meg Linehan called in to give an update on the USA players' emotions at the final whistle and set the scene from the podium, including tears of joy in the press conference from captain Lindsey Horan. Finally, Tamerra and Steph close out their 2024 Paris Olympic podcast coverage by handing out their own awards for the best tournament moments and then reflect on how these Games will be remembered. _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Steph Yang GUESTS: Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on Instagram and TikTok: @tafulltime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The U.S. women's national team's 2024 Paris Olympics adventure is not over. After a 1-0 extra-time win over Germany in Tuesday's semifinal, Emma Hayes' team will take on Brazil for a gold medal this weekend. On this special match-reaction Full Time podcast, Tamerra Griffin and Steph Yang break down how the USA stayed cool to survive and advance in a crunchy knockout affair against Germany. From Sophia Smith banishing the ghosts of the 2023 World Cup; to just how unstoppable Naomi Girma was in Lyon. Speaking of Lyon...Meg Linehan calls into the show, from France, to get the podcast caught up on her takeaways from the mixed zone with the players and coach. What was Hayes' reaction to taking the USA one step closer to Olympic gold? How was match-winner Smith feeling after one of the biggest moments of her career so far? Tamerra and Steph also play 'Gold, Silver, and Bronze' (giving out medals to their favorite moments from both the USA's win over Germany and Brazil's stunning 4-2 win over Spain.) Before then closing out the show with a preview of the upcoming gold medal match between the USWNT and the Selecao Feminina. Could this be Marta's last-ever tournament match for her country? _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Steph Yang GUESTS: Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on instagram: @tafulltime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

What a day. With three of the four 2024 Paris Olympic quarterfinals going to extra time, (and two of those games going to a penalty shootout), it's about time the Full Time podcast did the same! That's right, it's a bumper edition of the Full Time podcast, Tamerra Griffin and Steph Yang react to the U.S. women's national team's 1-0 overtime win over Japan as well as break down all 531 minutes of exhausting Olympic quarterfinal action. On the ground from the Parc des Princes, in Paris, Meg Linehan calls into the show to talk about what happened in the USA mixed zone after the win. How did head coach Emma Hayes respond to audible boos in the crowd? Just how fatigued are these players? And, did the Japanese tactics stifle the Americans' game plan? Later on in the show, Tamerra and Steph play 'Gold, Silver, and Bronze' (giving out medals to their favorite moments of the day). While also finishing up with a preview of the two Olympic Semifinals to come next week and some of their favorite moments from around the Games on Saturday. One thing remains true: The USWNT is onto a medal match. But who are their biggest rivals left in the tournament? This episode of the Full Time podcast will unpack it all. _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Steph Yang GUESTS: Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on instagram: @tafulltime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

And breathe. The USWNT finished the group stage with a perfect three wins from three at the 2024 Paris Olympics. At the end of the day's soccer action, Tamerra Griffin and Steph Yang react to the Americans' 2-1 over Australia and then they are joined by Meg Linehan to give the inside scoop from the Stade Velodrome, in Marseille, on how the players and head coach Emma Hayes reacted to victory. Is it time to question Hayes' lack of rotation in the starting XI? Who replaces a now-suspended Sam Coffey? After months without access, what was goalscorer Korbin Albert asked in the mixed zone? Exactly what did Matildas head coach Tony Gustavsson do to earn a yellow card? After wrapping up the USWNT's win and overall group stage performance, Tamerra and Steph play 'Gold, Silver, and Bronze' (giving out medals to their favorite moments of the day). Then, they finish up with a preview of every Olympic Quarterfinal matchup. From the USA's 2012 Olympic final rematch versus Japan; to Canada's miraculous journey to the knockout rounds (where they will play Germany) despite a six-point deduction and a suspended head coach. _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Steph Yang GUESTS: Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on instagram: @tafulltime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Moments after the USA's confident 4-1 win over Germany at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Tamerra Griffin and Steph Yang jump on the Full Time podcast to break down all the action. Why does the Americans' front three look so cohesive right now? Is there anyone that Naomi Girma can't cover? Why did Emma Hayes opt for an unchanged team? Midway through the podcast, Meg Linehan calls in from the Stade Velodrome, in Marseille, to update the listener on the USA players' emotions after qualifying for the quarterfinals, as well as to give some unique insights from being on the ground in France. PLUS: Tamerra and Steph play 'Gold, Silver, and Bronze' (giving out medals to what they believed to be the most impressive elements of a truly legendary day of Olympic women's soccer ). There's also plenty of talk about the ongoing #Dronegate, and Canada's shock 2-1 win over France without their banned head coach, Bev Priestman. _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Steph Yang GUESTS: Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on instagram: @tafulltime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Immediately after the USA's 3-0 win over Zambia at the 2024 Paris Olympics, Tamerra Griffin and Steph Yang sit down to react to all the action. How did Emma Hayes appear in her first major tournament game? Did the USA's attack do enough against 10 players? What can we infer from the lineup choices and substitutions? Later on in the show, Meg Linehan calls in from the Stade de Nice stadium. She offers up her unique perspective from the mixed zone after the match, as well as reports on what she learned from being on the ground in France. PLUS: Tamerra and Steph play 'Gold, Silver, and Bronze' (giving out medals to what they believed to be the most impressive elements of the USA v Zambia match). And then, the duo breaks down all the other Olympic soccer action from around the tournament's group stage, including the latest on #Dronegate. _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Steph Yang GUESTS: Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Follow on instagram: @tafulltime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tamerra Griffin and Steph Yang host a special episode of the Full Time podcast that previews the entire 2024 Paris Olympics soccer tournament. With the help of three additional experts, from The Athletic's soccer desk, the crew breaks down everything you need to know about Groups A, B, and C. From who the standout players might be, to the expected tournament favorites and unfortunate potential flops. With insightful analysis, the podcast wonders whether the USWNT can make it to the podium under new head coach Emma Hayes? Will anyone (but themselves) stop Spain? And, is this finally the moment where France, as hosts, truly captures the imagination of the country? Don't miss out on the perfect way to prepare for the action, which gets underway on July 25. 12 teams. Three medals. But only one can take home Olympic gold. _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Steph Yang GUESTS: Jessy Parker-Humphries, Meg Linehan, Laia Cervello Herrero PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen ________________ Articles mentioned on the show: USWNT heads to Olympics lacking goals scored: ‘If we went into Zambia perfect, I’d be worried’ Canada bids farewell to Christine Sinclair during 1-0 win over Australia Christine Sinclair’s imperfect World Cup sendoff and the end of an era ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Meg and Tamerra analyze how the U.S. women's national performed in their final two dress rehearsals, against Mexico and Costa Rica, ahead of the start of the 2024 Paris Olympics. There may just be a growing concern that the USA's midfield is, in fact, not midfielding. In what ways can Emma Hayes attempt to fix it? And, how did the hot weather conditions this past week play a factor in the preparations for the upcoming tournament? The duo also discusses what the sale of Angel City FC to Willow Bay and Bob Iger means for the NWSL club's aspirations on and off the pitch. Before then turning their attention to a special Olympic mailbag, where the podcast hosts answered a selection of burning questions submitted by the listeners. _______________ HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes VIDEO PRODUCER: Lia Griffin EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen ________________ Articles mentioned on the show: How Angel City became ‘the most valuable women’s sports team in the world’ with new owners Germany’s Lena Oberdorf to miss Paris Olympics with significant knee injury USWNT head coach Emma Hayes calls hot conditions in D.C. ‘perfect preparation’ for Olympics ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week is the 25th anniversary of the U.S. women's national team winning the 1999 World Cup, so what better way to celebrate than by bringing two legendary players from that team onto the podcast? Hall of Famers Julie Foudy and Briana Scurry joined Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan to reflect on what made the 1999 team special, share stories of the past, and reveal how they were able to craft a unique legacy on and off the pitch that still resonates today. PLUS: Tamerra and Meg preview the USA's intriguing Olympic send-off match against Mexico. What is at stake in Emma Hayes' biggest test yet? Also, in the NWSL, the podcast discusses whether the Orlando Pride and the KC Current created a new rivalry and whether Marta celebrated her team's win too hard. HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen ________________ Articles mentioned on the show: San Diego Wave president Jill Ellis denies former employee’s allegations of workplace abuse San Diego Wave, president Jill Ellis not found to have violated NWSL policy ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

With just over half the season played - and the month-long Olympic break on the horizon - it is the perfect time to zoom out and have a healthy debate on the state of the 2024 NWSL season. Hosts Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan are joined by former player and current broadcast analyst Jill Loyden to reflect on the league at its midway point while also looking forward to what we might see in the back half of the campaign. The trio unpacked the big questions, the award front runners, tactical strategies, and all the vibes in a special panel episode. PLUS: Tamerra and Meg discussed Kansas City being announced as the host of the 2024 NWSL Championship final, as well as the latest news on the sale of Angel City FC. To close out, the podcast also contemplated what we have learned from the coaching changes during the season so far. HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan PANEL GUEST: Jill Loyden PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen ________________ Articles mentioned on the show: 2024 NWSL championship will be played at new Kansas City stadium Disney CEO Bob Iger and Willow Bay close to purchasing control of Angel City FC: Source ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The USA's 2024 Paris Olympics roster is finally here. So, Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan take a deep dive into the major takeaways, leading with head coach Emma Hayes' big decision to leave behind veteran forward and co-captain Alex Morgan. Was it the right call to drop Morgan, and how was the move factored into the roster construction on and off the pitch? What did Tamerra and Meg make of midfielder Korbin Albert's inclusion in the squad despite a furor from the fanbase? What to make of more surprises on the 'Alternate' player list? PLUS: It has been a manic week of NWSL news, and there's plenty to get to in the U.S. domestic game. From coaching arrivals to departures to front office resignations. Tamerra and Meg try to make sense of Casey Stoney's sacking in San Diego, while speculating a new club that might swoop in and offer her a job. And, what are the first impressions of Jonatan Giraldez, now that the former FC Barcelona coach has touched down in Washington D.C? HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen ________________ Articles mentioned on the show: Why Alex Morgan missing the USWNT Olympic roster isn’t as drastic as it looks Emma Hayes backs Korbin Albert’s USWNT Olympic roster spot: ‘She’s a tremendous human being’ ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To celebrate Juneteenth, Tamerra Griffin hosts a special episode of the podcast to explore the holiday and Blackness in the NWSL. Alongside Tamerra's musings on the history of Juneteenth, commitment to liberation, and the importance of telling Black stories in soccer, she is joined by two special guests from the Washington Spirit. First, rookie sensation Croix Bethune stops by to talk about how she is bringing the culture into her spectacular performances while also revealing some of what is behind her unique style off the pitch. Then, the D.C. club's VP of Community Development, RaShauna Hamilton, talks about why representing the city's Black community at the stadium is so important and how she cultivated intentional events to celebrate Juneteenth. HOST: Tamerra Griffin PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen ________________ Articles mentioned on the show: Croix Bethune on her USWNT call, record-breaking rookie year in NWSL and ‘demon time’ ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ahead of the two 2024 expansion teams' first-ever meeting in the NWSL, Tamerra and Meg take a closer look at Bay FC and the Utah Royals. As we approach midseason, in their inaugural years, what are the two clubs doing similarly, and how are their approaches unique? To help get these answers, Kiki Pickett, the unsung midfield hero for the Northern Californians, stopped by to give the inside scoop on her rise from squad player to the scorer of a history-making goal at Wrigley Field. Then, USWNT legend and first-time head coach Amy Rodriguez hopped on the show to open up about the lessons she has learned from a tricky start to life in Salt Lake City, and how she is trying to implement a long-term plan. PLUS: Don't miss our interview with "low sock baller" Tobin Heath. The two-time World Cup winner chatted about why she is thriving in the media landscape, and what she thinks of Emma Hayes and the USWNT's chances at the upcoming Olympic games. HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen ________________ Articles featured on the show: Sinead Farrelly announces retirement: ‘I’m feeling so grateful’ Chicago Red Stars break NWSL attendance record vs. Bay FC at Wrigley Field Christen Press’ long journey back from injury: ‘The last six months have been the best of my life’ ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the immediate aftermath of the USWNT's victories over South Korea, Meg Linehan and fellow Athletic writer Steph Yang joined podcast host Tamerra Griffin live from Allianz Field, in St. Paul, MN, for a roundtable discussion of the biggest moments and lessons learned from the first two matches of the Emma Hayes era. The trio unpack what it was like to witness teenager Lily Yohannes' breathtaking debut? How is Tierna Davidson maturing into a leader and important queer voice on the national team? Which players have nailed down a starting role for this summer's Paris Olympics? And, what has Emma Hayes been trying to get the media and players to understand? Plus: The thrilling dominance and growth of the U.S. women's deaf national team, and the excitement surrounding the Chicago Red Stars' Wrigley Field debut in the NWSL this weekend. HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen ________________ Articles featured on the show: Who is Lily Yohannes? The 16-year-old USWNT goal-scorer breaking through at Ajax USWNT’s transformation under Emma Hayes continues, 16-year-old Lily Yohannes scores in her debut USWNT Olympic roster prediction 3.0: What we learned from Emma Hayes’ arrival ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At long last, Emma Hayes is in the United States to officially begin her tenure as the head coach of the U.S. women's national team. And, there is a lot to talk about. Tamerra Griffin and Meg Linehan debate whether there has ever been an incoming coach with this much hype in the team's history. Is American soccer ready for a coach with this much personality? What was it like to spend an intimate hour in the company of Hayes in New York City? What should fans expect from her two opening matches against South Korea? Meanwhile, a new professional Canadian women's soccer league (the Northern Super League) was announced. So, Tamerra and Meg discussed first impressions, takeaways surrounding the branding, and what its creation means for Concacaf and North American soccer. Plus: Orlando Pride defender Emily Sams stopped by the podcast to give us the scoop on the club top of the NWSL standings. What was it like to set a new league record for consecutive wins? How is training with Barbra Banda? And, can she break into the USWNT? With club football taking a weekend off during the FIFA window, Tamerra and Meg close out by looking ahead to some of international soccer's most joyous and frustrating storylines. HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen ________________ Articles featured on the show: USWNT head coach Emma Hayes brings unique personality back to the country that ‘made’ her USWNT head coach Emma Hayes talks Olympic roster preparations and the role of NWSL ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's a new era for the U.S. women's national team, and it's also a new era for Full Time with Meg Linehan.  On the first episode back, new podcast co-host Tamerra Griffin and Meg analyzed the names that made the cut, and some notable absentees, from Emma Hayes' first-ever USA national team roster. To unpack the news that Brazil will be hosting the 2027 World Cup, Tamerra and Meg also discussed how the South Americans secured the tournament and what needs to happen to create a lasting legacy. Can it top the 2023 edition in Australia & New Zealand? Plus: Listen to interviews with broadcaster Duda Pavao, who helped present the Brazilian federation's bid at the FIFA congress in Bangkok, as well as Kansas City Current and Brazilian national team forward Debinha. Tamerra and Meg close out with reactions to a shock resignation by Camille Ashton, and a preview of Friday night's top-billing meeting between the Orlando Pride vs. Portland Thorns. HOSTS: Tamerra Griffin, Meg Linehan PRODUCER: Theo Lloyd-Hughes  EXECUTIVE PRODUCER: Emily Olsen  ________________ Articles mentioned on the show: Emma Hayes names first roster as USWNT head coach: Crystal Dunn listed as a forward Brazil wins 2027 Women’s World Cup hosting duties: What we know about the successful bid Women’s World Cup: Why U.S./Mexico pivoted from 2027 to ‘record-breaking’ bid for 2031 ________________ Get in touch: fulltime@theathletic.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We're so excited to announce that Meg and the show are back and bigger than ever on May 23. Here's a little trailer explaining what to expect from the show and why we're so excited to return. Thanks for listening. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg joins Sophie Penney to talk about Megan Rapinoe's final professional game and the legacy she leaves behind. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Adam Crafton, Meg Linehan and Charlotte Harpur are with Sophie Penney to digest the big news that Emma Hayes is leaving Chelsea, likely for the U.S. Women’s National Team (USWNT). After 11 years at Chelsea, winning 13 major trophies, Hayes is primed to manage the four-time World Champions and four-time Olympic gold medallists. She replaces Vlatko Andonovski, who resigned after the Americans’ earliest ever World Cup exit. How did the deal happen? How will this impact English football? Can Hayes fix the current issues with the USWNT? Produced by Sophie Penney Executive Producer: Abi Paterson Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg and Steph are in Cincinnati for USWNT vs. South Africa. They react to the news of the NWSL coming to Boston! How big is it for the city and what's next? Boston’s NWSL ownership made ‘full sprint’ for its bid: An investor explains how it came together: https://theathletic.com/4882270/2023/09/20/boston-nwsl-2026/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg is joined by Angel City FC co-founder Kara Nortman to talk about her recent column on Yahoo Sports, "With the Women’s World Cup now over, here are 5 big soccer predictions". Takeaways from the World Cup, the future of the NWSL, and the current situation with the Spanish Football Federation. With the Women’s World Cup now over, here are 5 big soccer predictions: https://sports.yahoo.com/op-ed-with-the-womens-world-cup-now-over-here-are-5-big-soccer-predictions-195900905.html Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg Linehan and Jeff Reuter react to the resignation of USWNT head coach Vlatko Andonovski. What went wrong for Andonovski during his tenure? What is the future of Kate Markgraf? Plus, who are some candidates to be the next USWNT head coach? USWNT’s Vlatko Andonovski resigns, assistant Twila Kilgore named interim head coach: https://theathletic.com/4756777/2023/08/16/vlatko-andonovski-uswnt-head-coach/ Vlatko Andonovski is out as USWNT manager… now what? Deadlines for clarity are fast approaching: https://theathletic.com/4784616/2023/08/17/uswnt-coach-search-ussf/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg Linehan and Kim McCauley discuss where the USWNT goes from here. What is the future of Vlatko Andonovski? Where do the issues in the program stem from? Plus, a recap of Spain's thrilling extra time win over the Netherlands, and Sweden's 2-1 win over Japan to book a place in the semifinal. You can follow all our 2023 World Cup coverage here: https://theathletic.com/football/womens-world-cup-soccer/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg Linehan and Steph Yang react to the USWNT's stunning loss to Sweden in the Round of 16 in the 2023 Women's World Cup. Naomi Girma was the shining light for the US, but what were the biggest issues for the Americans?  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg Linehan and Steph Yang get you ready for the USWNT's Round of 16 matchup against Sweden. What has changed with the US? Can they bounce back from an unimpressive group stage? Plus, an overview of the tournament — Is this the best Women's World Cup ever?! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg Linehan and Emily Olsen react to the USWNT's 0-0 draw against Portugal to advance to the Round of 16. The US narrowly escapes crashing out of the tournament — How do the Americans bounce back? Can they fix the issues? Is the disconnect between NWSL and National Team holding back progress? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Tanya Hvizdak, Vice President of Global Women's Sports Marketing at Nike, joins Meg Linehan on Full Time to dive into all of Nike's on-the-ground commitments at the Women's World Cup in Australia and New Zealand. Learn about Nike's base camps: How Nike is helping with athlete's recovery, entertainment and experience. You can follow all our 2023 World Cup coverage here: https://theathletic.com/football/womens-world-cup-soccer/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg Linehan and Steph Yang bring you Full Time's reaction to the USWNT's 3-0 win against Vietnam in their opening match of the 2023 Women's World Cup. First up, a deep-dive into the US performance: -Sophia Smith's memorable World Cup debut -Rose Lavelle gets 30 minutes -Were US fans expecting a larger scoreline? Plus, a tournament overview: -New Zealand's impactful first ever World Cup win -Canada relying on their new kids -Meg and Steph's favorite food in Australia and New Zealand You can follow all our 2023 World Cup coverage here: https://theathletic.com/football/womens-world-cup-soccer/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a special "Journey to the Cup" episode brought to you by Google Chrome. Meg Linehan and Steph Yang are on the ground in Australia and New Zealand for the 2023 FIFA Women's World Cup. They bring you first impressions of the host countries, matches they are excited to see, and emotions on Megan Rapinoe's last World Cup. You can follow all our 2023 World Cup coverage here: https://theathletic.com/football/womens-world-cup-soccer/ Read all of The Athletic’s Journey to the Cup coverage here: https://theathletic.com/tag/the-journey-to-the-cup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a special "Journey to the Cup" episode brought to you by Google Chrome. Michelle Owen is joined by Charlotte Harpur, Meg Linehan and Michael Cox to give you the perfect preview guide to the 2023 FIFA Women’s World Cup. We run through every single group to give you all you need to know going into the tournament: -Will the USA retain their crown or will European champions England end the dominance of the USWNT?  -Or will it be our panel’s surprise pick as favorites who bring the trophy home? -Will the likes of Haiti or South Africa be a surprise package? -And which players are going to launch themselves to global stardom this summer? You can follow all our 2023 World Cup coverage here: https://theathletic.com/football/womens-world-cup-soccer/ Read all of The Athletic’s Journey to the Cup coverage here: https://theathletic.com/tag/the-journey-to-the-cup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Alan Waxman, co-chair of Bay FC and co-founder and CEO of Sixth Street, joins Full Time to discuss the ongoing NWSL expansion efforts in the Bay Area, following the new team’s branding reveal and CEO/general manager hires. From the team’s approach to player experience to the community reception they’ve seen so far, there’s plenty happening in the Bay. Now if someone will just get Alan one of those sweet Bay FC jackets… Follow Bay FC on Twitter: https://twitter.com/wearebayfc Read Meg’s story at Bay FC’s launch on the team: https://theathletic.com/4377933/2023/04/04/nwsl-expansion-bay-area/ Follow The Athletic’s World Cup coverage here: https://theathletic.com/football/womens-world-cup-soccer/ Follow The Athletic’s NWSL coverage here: https://theathletic.com/football/nwsl/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a special "Journey to the Cup" episode brought to you by Google Chrome. Sam Mewis joins Full Time to discuss her recent trip to Amsterdam for a conference with global player union FIFPro, how the USWNT players association tries to share their expertise, and wins in increased prize money for players at the 2023 World Cup. Plus, thoughts on the USWNT roster and her players to watch this summer. Listen to Snacks with Sam and Lynn Williams: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/snacks/id1563105123 Read Dan Sheldon’s story on the FIFPro report on WWC qualification: https://theathletic.com/4616336/2023/06/20/fifpro-report-womens-world-cup/ You can follow all our 2023 World Cup coverage here: https://theathletic.com/football/womens-world-cup-soccer/ Read all of The Athletic’s Journey to the Cup coverage here: https://theathletic.com/tag/the-journey-to-the-cup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a special "Journey to the Cup" episode brought to you by Google Chrome. Meg is joined by Steph Yang and Jeff Rueter to discuss the final USWNT roster for the 2023 World Cup, player by player and position by position. From the team’s depth, to major injuries and absences, to the players who also had legit shouts at making the 23 — it’s a comprehensive look at the team that’s going to be aiming for a U.S. three-peat in Aotearoa New Zealand and Australia. Initial thoughts from Steph on the roster: https://theathletic.com/4628045/2023/06/21/uswnt-world-cup-roster/ Jeff’s amazing breakdown of the USWNT roster with analysis of every player: https://theathletic.com/4628038/2023/06/21/uswnt-womens-world-cup-2023-squad-analysis/ You can follow all our 2023 World Cup coverage here: https://theathletic.com/football/womens-world-cup-soccer/ Read all of The Athletic’s Journey to the Cup coverage here: https://theathletic.com/tag/the-journey-to-the-cup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a special "Journey to the Cup" episode brought to you by Google Chrome. Meg is joined by Canadian and Portland Thorns forward Janine Beckie — currently rehabbing her ACL injury — to preview Canada’s World Cup — including their journey through the best and most interesting group, alongside hosts Australia, plus the Republic of Ireland and Nigeria. Thoughts on the preliminary roster from Bev Priestman, the lack of a send-off match for the team ahead of the tournament, plus FIFA’s increased investment in the women’s game. Here’s more on Canada’s preliminary roster from Steph Yang: https://theathletic.com/4593326/2023/06/08/canada-preliminary-world-cup-roster/ You can follow all our 2023 World Cup coverage here: https://theathletic.com/football/womens-world-cup-soccer/ Read all of The Athletic’s Journey to the Cup coverage here: https://theathletic.com/tag/the-journey-to-the-cup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steph Yang talks with "Angel City" director Arlene Nelson about how she spent 1+ year filming the team, the ways she wanted to bring viewers into the experience, and a possible season 2. Watch interview: https://youtu.be/e5ET1sX1x60 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steph Yang talks with Julie Uhrman, Angel City co-founder and president, about wanting people to see the difficulties of creating an expansion club, and her thoughts on the future direction of the NWSL. Watch interview: https://youtu.be/Hq1Ou9cVCEk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steph Yang talks with Angel City FC co-founder and owner Natalie Portman about why she wanted to make the HBO documentary, "Angel City", the importance of story-telling, and being the "cool sports friend" now. Watch interview: https://youtu.be/I49gSTNHLds Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steph Yang talks with Angel City FC forward Jasmyne Spencer about what it was like filming HBO's docuseries "Angel City", and the stories that she hopes continue to be told in women's soccer. Watch interview: https://youtu.be/38LaUNg3jhg Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This is a special "Journey to the Cup" episode brought to you by Google Chrome. Meg is joined by Charlotte Harpur and Steph Yang to discuss everything happening with the French women’s national team — from multiple players stepping away from the team over their concerns, including the team’s captain Wendie Renard, to the exit of head coach Corinne Diacre, the resignation of FFF president Noel Le Graet, and now the entrance of the team’s new head coach Herve Renard and possible return of players. All of this is happening only months before the World Cup, and time is running out for the team to prepare for this summer’s major tournament. Read Charlotte’s feature on France: https://theathletic.com/4260181/2023/03/01/france-wendie-renard-diacre/ More on Noel Le Graet’s resignation: https://theathletic.com/4259868/2023/02/28/noel-le-graet-french-football/ Corinne Diacre out as the team’s head coach: https://theathletic.com/4290895/2023/03/09/corinne-diacre-france-women-sacked/ And Herve Renard in: https://theathletic.com/4329031/2023/03/20/herve-renard-france-women/ Read all of The Athletic’s Journey to the Cup coverage here: https://theathletic.com/tag/the-journey-to-the-cup/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg checks in from New Zealand where she's on USWNT duty, and has audio from the post-game press conferences from the first match of the World Cup year for both the U.S. and the New Zealand Football Ferns. Vlatko Andonovski and Mal Swanson offer their thoughts on the match, followed by Ferns head coach Jitka Klimkova and Olivia Chance. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg and Steph are back for 2023, with so much happening on the first real Monday of the year that we needed an emergency pod. First up, new Portland Thorns FC head coach Mike Norris, then a discussion of the corrective actions and sanctions announced by the NWSL on Monday following the joint investigation, and finally, the major free agency news of the day: Debinha’s staying in the NWSL, and heading to Kansas City! Portland Thorns promote assistant Mike Norris to head coach: What’s next for the NWSL side?  https://theathletic.com/4073756/2023/01/09/portland-thorns-coach-mike-norris/ How the Kansas City Current landed Debinha, the NWSL’s top free agent https://theathletic.com/4069897/2023/01/09/debinha-kansas-city-current-nwsl/ NWSL bans Paul Riley, Christy Holly and others following joint investigation https://theathletic.com/4073531/2023/01/09/nwsl-investigation-bans-suspensions-riley-christy/ All our NWSL investigation coverage: https://theathletic.com/tag/nwsl-investigations/ The Journey to the Cup: What you need to know as we prepare for Australia & New Zealand 2023 https://theathletic.com/4020580/2022/12/21/2023-womens-world-cup-dates-info/ Get a FREE 1-year supply of immune-supporting Vitamin D AND 5 FREE travel packs with your first purchase at athleticgreens.com/MLS Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Following the release of the NWSL/NWSL PA joint investigation report that found “widespread misconduct” across the league, Meg and Steph discuss their reactions to the report, the timing of its release, and the major findings and how they’ll impact the league moving forward. Also: a few words in memory of our friend, Grant Wahl. Meg’s breakdown of the joint investigation report: https://theathletic.com/4002142/2022/12/14/nwsl-pa-joint-investigation/ Steph’s updated and comprehensive NWSL timeline of allegations, reports and inaction: https://theathletic.com/3677339/2022/10/10/nwsl-abuse-allegations-timeline/ All our NWSL investigation coverage: https://theathletic.com/tag/nwsl-investigations/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s time to catch up with Steph Yang! First, we discuss the new partnership between The Athletic and Google and reflect on what it means about where we’ve been and where we’re going. Then, tons of topics from the NWSL championship, NWSL fines, the USWNT’s readiness ahead of a World Cup year, Rose Lavelle’s big karaoke moment, and Lauren Holiday heading into the Soccer Hall of Fame. Subscribe to The Athletic for $1/month for 12 months during our Black Friday deal: www.theathletic.com/fulltime For more on the new Google partnership: https://www.nytco.com/press/the-athletic-and-google-launch-program-to-double-the-athletics-coverage-of-professional-womens-sports/ And https://theathletic.com/3908527/2022/11/22/project-womens-basketball-soccer-google/ That interview with CBS’s Dan Weinberg on the NWSL: https://theathletic.com/3742148/2022/11/01/fox-world-series-astros-phillies/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Let’s talk about some numbers! National Research Group’s Jay Kaufman (Executive Vice President and Head of Sports) and Mary Moczula (Global Marketing and Communications Director) join Full Time to discuss NRG’s recent study on women’s sports titled Leveling the Playing Field. The study sets out to answer a few major questions: what the increased attention on women’s sports actually means, if we are truly at a turning point, and if increased funding, viewership and interest can help overcome long-standing structural inequities. With a new media rights deal on the horizon for the NWSL, it’s the perfect time to dig deeper into the data. Read Leveling the Playing Field: https://www.nationalresearchgroup.com/news/leveling-the-playing-field Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Becca Roux, executive director of the USWNT Players Association, joins Full Time to discuss the collective bargaining agreement between the USWNT and U.S. Soccer, now available for everyone to read. From equal pay and equal prize money to safe working conditions and other important things to know from the document, Becca is here to provide the breakdown whether or not you opt to read the whole PDF. And: we talk about the infamous scrimmage against a boys team in 2017. Follow the USWNTPA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/USWNTPlayers And on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/uswntplayers/ USWNTPA website: https://uswntplayers.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We survived the NWSL Championship, and we’ve got one of the Championship winners on this week’s show! Janine Beckie is here to discuss the big game, the vibe in DC, the celebrations and what’s coming up in the off-season for her (spoiler: naps). Plus… we had to do it, we detoured into plenty fo Grey’s Anatomy talk (with Janine making sure we were major spoiler free). Follow our NWSL coverage at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/football/nwsl/ Follow Janine on Twitter: https://twitter.com/janinebeckie And Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/janinebeckie4/ Meg on the Ally deal: https://theathletic.com/3742895/2022/10/29/nwsl-ally-sponsorship/ Steph on Rhian Wilkinson: https://theathletic.com/3744844/2022/10/30/portland-thorns-nwsl-rhian-wilkinson/ The final NWSL Chaos Column of the year from Steph: https://theathletic.com/3749537/2022/10/31/nwsl-championship-thorns-sophia-smith/ Meg on the congressional letter to U.S. Soccer: https://theathletic.com/3752017/2022/11/01/nwsl-investigations-congress/ For more on Paul & Sam’s new USMNT podcast, From Couva to Qatar: https://theathletic.com/3748886/2022/11/01/usmnt-world-cup-podcast/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg’s on the move in DC this week ahead of the NWSL Championship. This week, players from the Portland Thorns and Kansas City Current, live from media day, answer questions about this weekend’s final. Follow our NWSL coverage at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/football/nwsl/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Claire Watkins is back on Full Time to discuss the Chicago Red Stars, following the release of her exhaustive investigative report on the team this week. We discuss her new full time role at Just Women’s Sports, her reporting, and what comes next for the Red Stars — plus, a quick celebration of the new 2023 World Cup mascot. Follow Claire on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ScoutRipley Read her Chicago Red Stars story at Defector: https://defector.com/how-the-chicago-red-stars-became-the-epitome-of-nwsl-dysfunction/ Subscribe to the JWS newsletter: https://justwomenssports.com/newsletter/ Here’s Meg’s Red Stars story at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/3705608/ Our World Cup draw guide: https://theathletic.com/3704486/ Meg and Steph Yang on the NWSL quarterfinals: https://theathletic.com/3702263/ And our NWSL playoffs guide: https://theathletic.com/3691227/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Eni Aluko, Angel City Sporting Director and former Lioness, joins Lynsey Hooper and The Athletic’s UK and U.S. football reporters Charlotte Harpur and Meg Linehan for this one. All fresh from Wembley they digest the European Champions’ victory over the World Champions, marred by the Yates abuse report. Charlotte speaks to Millie Bright, Georgia Stanway and Rachel Daly after the match. Plus we look ahead to the WSL weekend to come and we play buy one, bench one, sell one with the Ballon D’Or nominees ahead of next week’s awards. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The report from the U.S. Soccer independent investigation, led by Sally Yates is in. Meg and Steph discuss the key findings, detailed in the report’s executive summary, as well as the systemic recommendations. Content warning: this podcast discusses sensitive topics including sexual, verbal and emotional abuse. To follow our coverage: https://theathletic.com/tag/nwsl-investigations/ ‘This guy has a pattern’: Amid institutional failure, former NWSL players accuse prominent coach of sexual coercion (from Sep. 2021): https://theathletic.com/2857633/2021/09/30/this-guy-has-a-pattern-amid-institutional-failure-former-nwsl-players-accuse-prominent-coach-of-sexual-coercion/ NWSL & NWSLPA’s joint investigation, one year after Paul Riley: Where it stands, what’s next: https://theathletic.com/3644269/2022/09/30/nwsl-nwslpa-investigation-paul-riley/ Linehan: The NWSL and women’s soccer power brokers have repeatedly turned a blind eye to harm (from Nov. 2021): https://theathletic.com/2972862/2021/11/22/linehan-the-nwsl-and-womens-soccer-power-brokers-have-repeatedly-turned-a-blind-eye-to-harm/ ‘A fear based system’: How the structure of sports protects abusers of power (from Oct. 2021): https://theathletic.com/2862063/2021/10/01/a-fear-based-system-how-the-structure-of-sports-protects-abusers-of-power/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kansas City Current head coach Matt Potter joins Full Time to discuss his path to the NWSL via NCAA and U.S. Soccer roles, the team’s culture and approach to external narratives and a chaotic end to the NWSL regular season, plus a whole lot more including a lovely story about Carla Overbeck. Plus: Meg gives a quick breakdown of the USWNT roster heading to England and Spain next month, and the NWSL playoff scenarios and schedule ahead of the final weekend of the regular season. Matt’s not an active poster, but he is on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/MattPotter70 This week’s NWSL column from Meg and Steph: https://theathletic.com/3629516/2022/09/26/nwsl-mvp-candidates-debinha/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steph Yang is back! There’s a ton to cover since the last time she was on the show, from the congested NWSL table and race to the playoffs (plus a celebration of the wild 4-3 Spirit vs. Wave match) to the USWNT friendlies against Nigeria, and their upcoming ones against England, Spain and Germany, to the expected investigation report from Sally Yates. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The USWNT won back-to-back games against Nigeria in Kansas City and Washington D.C. This week, we’re going to the mixed zone and press conference at Audi Field to not just get some questions in about the soccer, but the big event of the USWNT and USMNT collective bargaining agreements being signed on the field with U.S. Soccer, featuring Becky Sauerbrunn, Megan Rapinoe, Sam Coffey, Cindy Parlow Cone and Vlatko Andonovski. Read Meg’s story on the CBA signing: https://theathletic.com/3574110/2022/09/07/uswnt-cba-ussf/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ryan Clarke of the Oregonian joins Full Time to discuss his recent investigation reports concerning the Portland Thorns and Timbers organization, from last month’s story on former employees describing a toxic work environment for women and working mothers, to this week’s story in which he reported extensive details around Portland’s investigation into their actions in 2015 concerning former head coach Paul Riley. Follow Ryan Clarke on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RyanTClarke Read ‘Former employees of Portland Timbers, Thorns allege ‘toxic’ work environment for women, working mothers’ by Ryan Clarke: https://www.oregonlive.com/sports/2022/08/former-employees-of-portland-timbers-thorns-allege-toxic-work-environment-for-women-working-mothers.html Read ‘Details emerge from law firm’s investigation into Portland Thorns’ handling of former coach Paul Riley’ by Ryan Clarke: https://www.oregonlive.com/sports/2022/08/details-emerge-from-law-firms-investigation-into-portland-thorns-handling-of-former-coach-paul-riley.html Read Meg and Steph’s NWSL free agency explainer: https://theathletic.com/3539143/2022/08/25/nwsl-free-agency-dispute/ And read Meg & Steph’s weekly NWSL column: https://theathletic.com/3546876/2022/08/29/nwsl-rapinoe-san-diego-wave/ The Athletic is hiring a staff writer to cover women’s basketball: https://jobs.lever.co/theathletic/fa35f1dc-b17c-4d9d-8123-8693f0db1a08 Hockey! Takeaways on Team USA at Women’s Worlds from Hailey Salvian and Shayna Goldman: https://theathletic.com/3551625/2022/08/30/team-usa-womens-worlds-five-takeaways/ And Hailey’s got thoughts on Canada at Worlds too: https://theathletic.com/3553749/2022/08/31/womens-worlds-canada-what-did-we-learn/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re shifting our focus to another NWSL team this week, with Houston Dash president Jessica O’Neill joining the show to discuss the growing ambitions in Houston. After winning the first Challenge Cup, and under (relatively) new ownership in Ted Segal, the team’s made a bunch of big moves on the roster and in the front office this week. From pushing for the 2022 playoffs to planning ahead to the 2026 World Cup, Jessica is here to talk about it all. The NWSL Championship moves to primetime: https://theathletic.com/3531241/2022/08/23/nwsl-championship-time-channel-cbs/ This week’s NWSL column from Meg & Steph: https://theathletic.com/3528601/2022/08/22/labonta-ward-nwsl-coaches/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sophie Sauvage, head of international football for Olympique Lyonnais, discusses her role with both OL Reign in the NWSL and Lyon in Division 1 Féminine. From what lessons can be shared on both sides of the organization to strategy and growth of the women’s game, Sauvage is one of the few that is directly involved in shaping what comes next here and in Europe. Plus, the latest news and Laura Harvey earns the record for most wins in the NWSL. Follow Sophie Sauvage on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sauvage_sophie Q&A with new Angel City GM Angela Hucles Mangano: https://theathletic.com/3508535/2022/08/15/ This week’s NWSL column from Meg & Steph: https://theathletic.com/3508747/2022/08/15/ More on the Oregonian’s report from Portland: https://www.oregonlive.com/sports/2022/08/five-points-to-focus-on-from-the-oregonians-investigation-into-ptfcs-workplace-culture.html Meg on Soccer Made in Portland discussing Ryan’s reporting: https://www.oregonlive.com/sports/2022/08/soccer-made-in-portland-podcast-the-athletics-meg-linehan-discusses-the-ptfc-investigation.html This episode of Full Time is presented by Klarna: the new, smart way to pay when you shop online for tickets, team merch, and more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jenna Tonelli of All for XI/Nets Republic joins Meg and Steph to discuss Thursday’s breaking news that Gotham FC and head coach Scott Parkinson have parted ways, from what comes next to interim head coach options to offering up some possible solutions on the field to salvage the 2022 season at Red Bull Arena. Follow Jenna Tonelli on Twitter: https://twitter.com/jennatonelli Follow Steph Yang on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thrace Our news story on Scott Parkinson: https://theathletic.com/3498443/2022/08/11/scott-parkinson-fired-gotham-fc/ Read Jenna’s story ‘As losses pile up, Gotham searches for an identity — and joy’ on Equalizer Soccer: https://equalizersoccer.com/2022/08/09/njny-gotham-fc-search-identity-joy-losing-streak-nwsl-analysis/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

England’s Euro 2022 triumph has captured the hearts of the nation, and it seems like it could lead to lasting change in women’s soccer in that country and beyond. But while many are comparing it with the USA’s win in the 1999 World Cup, there are some key differences. Meg Linehan is here to talk about them. The Athletic Soccer on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo56QQ41e5Mc3ndX45mjauQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg and Steph are in Monterrey and checking in after the group stage of the CONCACAF W Championship. The USWNT, Canada, Costa Rica and Jamaica have booked their spots for the 2023 World Cup, and there’s still Olympic qualifying on the line. From Mexico’s disappointing performance to USWNT stand-outs, plus some NWSL thoughts, there’s plenty to talk about this week! Follow Steph on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thrace Key takeaways and standout performers of the CONCACAF W Championship so far: https://theathletic.com/3419140/2022/07/12/key-takeaways-and-standout-performers-of-the-concacaf-w-championship-so-far/ Don’t forget, we have the NWSL schedule, standings and stats on the site and app now! https://theathletic.com/football/nwsl/standings/ The Athletic Soccer is now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo56QQ41e5Mc3ndX45mjauQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ally’s Chief Marketing Officer Andrea Brimmer joins the show to dig into their sponsorship of the NWSL, a new pledge to equally spend on men’s and women’s sports over the next 5 years in media buys, and how they hope to challenge others to join them in backing women’s sports. Follow Andrea Brimmer on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AndreaBrimmer Read about the Bay Area expansion efforts: https://theathletic.com/3375439/2022/06/21/nwsl-bay-area/ More on the USWNT roster for these friendlies & the W Championship: https://theathletic.com/3363484/2022/06/13/uswnt-roster-rapinoe-press/ Don’t forget, we have the NWSL schedule, standings and stats on the site and app now! https://theathletic.com/football/nwsl/standings/ The Athletic Soccer is now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo56QQ41e5Mc3ndX45mjauQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Orlando Pride have placed head coach Amanda Cromwell and first assistant coach Sam Greene on administrative leave, all pending the results of an investigation into allegations of retaliation. It’s the latest in a long run of NWSL coaching suspensions, firings and the like. Meg Linehan is here to tell us why this one is important, and how a new policy is having its intended effect. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A long, long journey is finally at its end. The United States men’s and women’s national teams have agreed to a first-of-it’s kind joint collective bargaining agreement – one which guarantees equal compensation for both teams. Meg Linehan has covered this story closely since the beginning, and she joins the show today to reflect on all that’s happened over the course of this story, and what could come next. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steph Yang returns to discuss all things NWSL, from the soccer itself to the second half of that Challenge Cup final. From the airing of grievances with Gotham to some processing and “I feel” statements, we’ve got it all this week. Follow Steph on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thrace Read this week’s NWSL column from Meg and Steph: https://theathletic.com/3301889/2022/05/09/nwsl-challenge-cup-alex-morgan-san-diego-wave/ Read Steph’s story on NWSL refs: https://theathletic.com/2856701/2021/09/29/what-its-like-to-be-an-nwsl-referee-low-pay-little-support-and-constant-criticism/ The latest news on Vivianne Miedema’s contract at Arsenal: https://theathletic.com/news/vivianne-miedema-closing-in-on-one-year-contract-extension-at-arsenal/TpTSnQGsMSwg/ The Athletic Soccer is now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo56QQ41e5Mc3ndX45mjauQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meghann Burke, executive director of the NWSL Players Association, joins Full Time to walk everyone through the collective bargaining agreement — just signed on Friday night at Angel City’s first regular season match.  Follow the NWSLPA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/nwsl_players/ Read the CBA: https://www.nwslplayers.com/contract Read this week’s NWSL column from Meg and Steph: https://theathletic.com/3291664/2022/05/03/angel-city-nwsl-tiers-ravelle/ Read Meg’s feature on the Angel City home opener: https://theathletic.com/3294418/2022/05/04/angel-city-fc-courage-opener-nwsl/ The Athletic Soccer is now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo56QQ41e5Mc3ndX45mjauQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sandra Herrera from CBS Sports joins to discuss the CONCACAF W Championship draw and how the new tournament is changing, plus some quick NWSL thoughts to send us into another week of the Challenge Cup. Follow Sandra on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandHerrera_ Follow Attacking Third on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AttackingThird For more on the CONCACAF W Championship: https://theathletic.com/3259874/2022/04/19/concacaf-wchampionship-draw-world-cup-qualifiers-uswnt/ The Athletic Soccer is now on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCo56QQ41e5Mc3ndX45mjauQ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The U.S. women’s national team just cruised to a pair of victories against Uzbekistan with a combined score of 18-1. So what did we actually learn? Steph Yang is back to discuss the takeaways with Meg as this summer’s World Cup and Olympics qualifying draws closer. Follow Steph on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thrace Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The NWSL challenge cup is just a handful of games old, but just in the past week ther ehave been three separate season-ending injuries that could impact the players’ clubs and the U.S. women’s national team. Meg Linehan is here to tell us all about it. Also, tonight’s the last night of CONCACAF World Cup qualifying – we’ll give you a quick guide to that. Meg & Steph’s NWSL recap: https://theathletic.com/3214400/2022/03/28/jessica-mcdonald-and-ashley-sanchez-skill-shows-issues-with-broadcast-quality-and-stoneywatch-this-week-in-nwsl-chaos/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Long time, no see.” Ada Hegerberg recently announced her return to the Norway women’s national team, and is prepping for the second leg of Lyon’s Champions League quarterfinal against Juventus — but she stopped by Full Time to discuss the reaction to her big news, and dig in on media coverage of the women’s game. Follow Ada on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AdaStolsmo Read more on Ada Hegerberg from Katie Whyatt: https://theathletic.com/3206942/2022/03/24/ada-hegerbergs-five-year-protest-shamed-football-now-we-must-cherish-her-talent-as-well-as-salute-her-activism/ Watch UWCL games here on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/c/DAZNUEFAWomensChampionsLeague Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Susie Piortkowski, head of women’s team sports at Octagon, joins Full Time this week to discuss the growth of the NWSL and women’s sports, the role of sponsorships, and, of course, sneakers. Follow Susie on Twitter: https://twitter.com/susiepio Read more on Ada Hegerberg from Katie Whyatt: https://theathletic.com/3206942/2022/03/24/ada-hegerbergs-five-year-protest-shamed-football-now-we-must-cherish-her-talent-as-well-as-salute-her-activism/ Meg’s story on the new Angel City FC anthem: https://theathletic.com/3207358/2022/03/24/angel-city-unveils-club-anthem-by-brittany-howard-and-tia-p-it-just-hits-on-so-many-different-levels/ Alex Abnos and his absurd chart for men’s World Cup qualifiers: https://twitter.com/AnAbnos/status/1506801657178427404 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg is joined by Steph Yang on a special live room edition of Full Time. They go through the entire NWSL league and preview the Challenge Cup. What should we expect? Which teams are the favorites? Challenge Cup preview: https://theathletic.com/3194346/2022/03/18/2022-nwsl-challenge-cup-guide-tournament-format-match-schedule-where-to-watch-and-more/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On Wednesday, the NWSL announced they had found their new commissioner — and Jessica Berman joins Full Time on day one (though her official start date isn’t until April 20 ahead of the regular season). It’s a giant role to step into considering the events of 2021 for the NWSL, and the future ahead — so time to find out what Berman’s approach to the role will be over the next four years. Follow Jessica Berman on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JessicaBerman1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Paul Tenorio is back and ready to discuss all things U.S. Soccer — from how the men’s national team will play a role in the USWNT equal pay settlement and CBA negotiations, to the new TV deal for the USMNT and USWNT, to the upcoming presidential election between Cindy Parlow Cone and Carlos Cordeiro this weekend.  Follow Paul on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PaulTenorio Where things stand following the USWNT’s settlement with U.S. Soccer (by Meg): https://theathletic.com/3147035/2022/02/23/where-things-stand-following-the-uswnts-settlement-with-u-s-soccer/ U.S. Soccer agrees to 8-year English-language media rights deal with Turner Sports and HBO (by Paul Tenorio and Sam Stejskal): https://theathletic.com/news/us-soccer-agrees-to-8-year-english-language-media-rights-deal-with-turner-sports-and-hbo/qqZYBuQLCEfI/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg Linehan and Steph Yang react to the USWNT players settlement with U.S. Soccer on a brand new live room on The Athletic! Meg's story: https://theathletic.com/news/uswnt-players-reach-settlement-with-us-soccer-for-total-of-24-million-in-pay-discrimination-lawsuit/BXmnGmymxK4b/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week’s guest is Molly Hensley-Clancy of the Washington Post, who discusses her investigative reporting on former Chicago Red Stars head coach Rory Dames at the NWSL and youth levels and the 2018 investigation done by U.S. Soccer, as well as the news of Michele Kang becoming majority owner of the Washington Spirit. Follow Molly on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mollyhc Read her latest story here: https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2022/02/08/rory-dames-eclipse-select-misconduct-allegations/ And on the players’ letter to Carlos Cordeiro and Cindy Parlow Cone: https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2022/02/09/uswnt-letter-us-soccer-rory-dames/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sarah Gregorius, FIFPRO’s Director of Policy & Strategy for Women’s Football, joins Full Time to discuss a new report from the organization on player workload. We focus in on the NWSL and the USWNT, and discuss how the schedule is ultimately the key to everything (at least when it comes to player workload). Plus: a historic CBA for the NWSL Players’ Association and the NWSL preseason started on time! Follow Sarah on Twitter: https://twitter.com/sarah_grego Read the 2021 FIFPRO Player Workload Monitoring Report: https://www.fifpro.org/en/player-iq-hub/player-workload-monitoring-platform/lack-of-games-and-calendar-hold-back-women-s-football Our initial news report on the CBA: https://theathletic.com/news/nwsl-players-association-ratifies-first-collective-bargaining-agreement/FxEH2fT5REqS/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s 2022, and Full Time is back! Meg and Steph catch up on the major events of the year so far, especially the ongoing collective bargaining negotiations between the players’ association and the NWSL, plus the ongoing ownership saga of the Washington Spirit and plenty more. Follow Steph Yang on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thrace Meg’s report on a potential work stoppage: https://theathletic.com/news/nwsl-players-wont-report-to-clubs-without-cba-in-place-sources/6Lq02CrVJBBr/ The latest NWSLPA statement: https://twitter.com/nwsl_players/status/1486087651271020545 NWSL board approves ownership changes to the Washington Spirit: https://theathletic.com/news/nwsl-board-approves-michele-kangs-acquisition-of-additional-washington-spirit-shares/f6lYpjP2y2Wn/ Steph on North Carolina and Jaelene Daniels: https://theathletic.com/3085015/2022/01/21/north-carolina-courage-leaderships-response-to-jaelene-daniels-backlash-worsens-growing-disconnect-with-fans/ Statement from the Portland Thorns players: https://twitter.com/sincy12/status/1485756823307096064 And a statement from the team on their investigation: https://twitter.com/itsmeglinehan/status/1486372083970064385 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

NWSL Players Association executive director Meghann Burke and former player Mana Shim join Full Time to discuss a new initiative designed to support NWSL players: an emergency fund that will assist current and former players with financial hardships, from car repairs to mental health resources, by putting money directly in their pockets. For more on the emergency fund and to donate: https://supporttheplayers.net/ Follow the NWSL PA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/nwsl_players Follow Mana Shim on Twitter: https://twitter.com/meleanashim The latest on the Washington Spirit at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/3016004/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The trades are done (for now, sort of) and Meg and Steph immediately hopped on Zoom to react to the protected and unprotected lists for the upcoming NWSL Expansion Draft as soon as they dropped on Friday. Real-time reactions, ruminating about the nature of the draft itself, plus some suggestions on additional programming for the broadcast — just tossing this out here, but if you’re going to put retired players on the list, then we deserve a NWSL retired player combine. The NWSL trade tracker (free to read): https://theathletic.com/live-blogs/nwsl-trade-tracker-sam-mewis-to-kc-current-sarah-gorden-and-julie-ertz-to-angel-city-and-more/DQSpUFTtvqRa/ The protected/unprotected lists: https://www.nwslsoccer.com/news/nwsl-releases-protected-lists-ahead-of-2022-nwsl-expansion-draft-presented-by-ally Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg and Steph tackle the new-look USWNT’s performance in the final games of the year against Australia, before digging into one of the wildest NWSL trade windows ever (and it’s not even quite done yet) ahead of the NWSL expansion draft for Angel City FC and San Diego Wave FC.  The NWSL trade tracker (free to read): https://theathletic.com/live-blogs/nwsl-trade-tracker-sam-mewis-to-kc-current-sarah-gorden-and-julie-ertz-to-angel-city-and-more/DQSpUFTtvqRa/ Meg and Steph on the USWNT players trending in the right direction after the Australia games: https://theathletic.com/2991655/2021/12/01/the-uswnt-players-trending-toward-more-playing-time-in-2022-after-the-matches-against-australia/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The NWSL went from the high of the NWSL Championship in Louisville on Saturday to the all-too-familiar low of yet another investigative report concerning the misconduct of a head coach. Claire Watkins is here to process the news around Rory Dames following Monday’s Washington Post report, plus touch on the final we just attended this weekend between the Red Stars and Washington Spirit. Subscribe to The Athletic and support all of our women’s soccer coverage right now — currently just $1 a month for Black Friday and Cyber Monday at https://theathletic.com/fulltime Follow Claire Watkins on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ScoutRipley Read her work at Just Women’s Sports: https://justwomenssports.com/authors/claire-watkins/ Read Molly Hensley-Clancy’s investigative reporter at the Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/11/22/rory-dames-chicago-red-stars-resigns/ Read Meg’s column on the state of the NWSL: https://theathletic.com/2972862/2021/11/22/linehan-the-nwsl-and-womens-soccer-power-brokers-have-repeatedly-turned-a-blind-eye-to-harm/ Read Pablo Maurer’s story on Trinity Rodman: https://theathletic.com/2968074/2021/11/20/trinity-rodman-caps-history-making-rookie-season-with-awe-inspiring-nwsl-championship-performance/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg’s in Portland, Steph’s at home, and we’re back to discuss the NWSL semifinals, the USWNT roster and some of the latest news around the league — plus, some thoughts on Red (Taylor’s Version) because it’s currently on repeat when we’re not recording podcasts. Subscribe to The Athletic and support all of our women’s soccer coverage right now at https://theathletic.com/fulltime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After an unplanned week off, Full Time is back in a big way with Alex Morgan, Rachel Daly and Lynn Williams joining the pod to have a discussion about the NWSL and plans for 2022 — with a crowded summer of international matches and World Cup qualifiers, how can players balance club and country? We explore the player perspective on the soccer calendar and what could change — and how proactively talking about this now might help push the NWSL to live up to its hopes of being the best league in the world. Help get Lauren Holiday to her marathon goal: https://jlhnycmarathon.funraise.org/ Subscribe to The Athletic and support all of our women’s soccer coverage right now at https://theathletic.com/fulltime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Just a quick check-in from Meg this week with the latest news, plus hear from new interim CEO of the NWSL Marla Messing, who spoke to the media for the first time on Wednesday. We’ve got some of her comments this episode covering the ongoing investigations across the women’s soccer landscape, a league update on the Washington Spirit, and more. Take the 2021 NWSL Supporter Survey here: https://theathletic.com/2902944/2021/10/20/nwsl-supporter-survey-2021-we-want-your-opinion-on-the-league-its-teams-and-this-unprecedented-year/ Subscribe to Soccer Every Day on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/soccer-every-day/id1586833046 Subscribe to The Athletic and support all of our women’s soccer coverage right now at https://theathletic.com/fulltime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg and Steph Yang catch up to discuss both the fall-out across the NWSL (including the relocation of the NWSL Championship) but also the games and the playoff picture — plus discuss some candidates for NWSL MVP, and what we consider “most valuable.” Plus: thinking about the NWSL commissioner role and the USWNT roster drop, and Meg might accidentally start a barbeque war at the end. The new website for the Black Women’s Player Collective: https://www.bwplayercollective.org/ Read Steph’s story “‘A fear based system’: How the structure of sports protects abusers of power” at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/2862063/2021/10/01/a-fear-based-system-how-the-structure-of-sports-protects-abusers-of-power/ For more on the NWSL Championship being moved to Louisville: https://theathletic.com/news/nwsl-championship-moved-from-portland-to-louisville-at-players-request/iVoU9DB4n2Ht/ Our rolling coverage of reactions across the NWSL following The Athletic’s reporting on Sep. 30: https://theathletic.com/live-blogs/sinead-farrelly-and-mana-shim-discuss-allegations-nwsl-commissioner-resigns-paul-riley-fired-live-updates-on-nwsl/CaPyeg3hqcbH/ For all of the latest Washington Spirit coverage: https://theathletic.com/team/spirit/ Buy Marcus Thompson’s book “Dynasties: The 10 G.O.A.T. Teams that Changed the NBA Forever” on Bookshop: https://bookshop.org/books/dynasties-the-10-g-o-a-t-teams-that-changed-the-nba-forever/9780762496297 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg and Katie Strang discuss their reporting on Thursday’s story: ‘This guy has a pattern’: Amid institutional failure, two former NWSL players accuse prominent coach of sexual coercion at The Athletic. Read the story here: https://theathletic.com/2857633/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg and Steph Yang both made trips to Ohio for the USWNT friendlies against Paraguay, and compare notes in today’s show, before discussing the emotions around player retirements, a diversion on the latest episode of Ted Lasso (spoilers!), and then circling back around to the NWSL, plus the new expansion draft rules. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The IX Newsletter’s Howard Megdal is here to discuss the latest on equal pay, with U.S. Soccer trying to take some big steps in collective bargaining negotiations and in the public sphere, plus the role of the equal pay documentary, public statements and tweets in the back-and-forth between the federation and the players.  Follow Howard on Twitter: https://twitter.com/howardmegdal Read Howard’s latest on equal pay at Forbes: https://www.forbes.com/sites/howardmegdal/2021/09/16/has-us-soccer-grabbed-the-pr-high-ground-in-equal-pay-fight/?sh=20edf8fb4cf1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sometimes you just want to talk about things that make you happy — so Kavitha Davidson, our culture writer at The Athletic, joins Full Time to discuss the second season of Ted Lasso, from appreciating the weekly nature of the show to a new appreciation for Higgins to the show’s embrace of earnestness and subversive feminism. Follow Kavitha on Twitter: https://twitter.com/kavithadavidson Kavitha’s Ted Lasso review: https://theathletic.com/2719847/2021/07/21/sophomore-slump-not-at-all-the-new-season-of-ted-lasso-doubles-down-on-its-awesomeness/ Our interview with Ben Olsen, new Spirit president: https://theathletic.com/2811768/2021/09/07/ben-olsen-washington-spirit-nwsl/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg is back from vacation and Steph Yang joins the show to help her catch up on another absolutely wild week in the NWSL. Plus, Douglas Reyes-Ceron from the Rose Room Collective joins Full Time to provide some supporter perspective on what’s happening with the Washington Spirit, and why a single banner created an entire NWSL news cycle. Follow Steph on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thrace Steph’s article on Christen Press signing with Angel City: https://theathletic.com/2785520/2021/08/23/christen-press-angel-city-nwsl/ Steph’s article on the new coaching staff at Gotham FC: https://theathletic.com/2800336/2021/08/31/gotham-fc-scott-parkinson-hire/ Follow Rose Room Collective on Twitter: https://twitter.com/RoseRoomCo The latest on the Spirit ownership battle from the Washington Post: https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/08/30/washington-spirit-owners-steve-baldwin/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg and Steph are in Portland for the Women’s International Champions Cup, and discuss the tournament’s opening matches between Lyon and Barcelona and Portland and Houston. We check in on the latest from the Washington Spirit as well and their sponsorship announcement, plus the major NWSL trade this week between Kansas City and Portland. Follow Steph on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thrace Check out Artifact: https://www.heyartifact.com/loveletters/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Pablo Maurer and Steph Yang join Full Time to discuss our reporting around the coaching situation happening with the Washington Spirit, after head coach Richie Burke was suspended pending an investigation by the team this week. Plus, we take a step back to discuss some of the tensions and issues facing the NWSL. Read our report on the Washington Spirit here: https://theathletic.com/2764932/2021/08/11/washington-spirit-richie-burke-nwsl-investigation/ Molly Hensley-Clancy’s reporting on Richie Burke and the Spirit is essential reading: https://www.washingtonpost.com/sports/2021/08/11/richie-burke-nwsl-spirit-verbal-abuse/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steph Yang and Meg are here with the final edition of our Olympics coverage on Full Time, with a very happy Steph celebrating Canada’s victory over Sweden via penalty kicks to win Gold. We’ve got some thoughts on the match, a little bit of reflection about what comes next for the USWNT, and say goodbye to Tokyo 2020 (and get just a bit hyped for the 2023 World Cup already). For all our Olympic women’s soccer coverage at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/tag/tokyo-2020-womens-soccer/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steph Yang and Meg are here with another early morning reaction to a USWNT match — and we finally got a good 4 a.m. game, with the U.S. sneaking past Australia to win bronze in a “no defense, just vibes” 4-3 affair.  For all our Olympic women’s soccer coverage at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/tag/tokyo-2020-womens-soccer/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Rueter of The Athletic joins Full Time for our final matchday minus-one preview episode ahead of the bronze and gold medal matches on Thursday. We talk about joy and some of the overall impressions of the USWNT through this tournament and what comes next, plus Jeff flips the script and asks me a couple of questions about what trying to cover the Olympics remotely has been like compared to the 2019 World Cup. For all our Olympic women’s soccer coverage at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/tag/tokyo-2020-womens-soccer/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jamie Wine, partner at Latham & Watkins, joins Full Time to provide some perspective from the U.S. Soccer Federation on the USWNT players’ appeal in the equal pay lawsuit, following the opening brief from the players’ legal team and six amicus briefs (including ones from the U.S. men’s national team’s players association and the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission). Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sweden and Canada picked up semifinal wins to advance to the Gold medal match in Japan, while the USWNT and Australia will play for bronze on Thursday morning (4 a.m. ET). Steph Yang joins the pod for our game day breakdown of the historic result for Canada, another underwhelming result for the U.S. and what it might mean for the team moving forward. Read Steph’s article, ‘What’s gone wrong for the USWNT at the Olympics’: https://theathletic.com/2746578/2021/08/02/uswnt-olympics-what-went-wrong/ Read Meg’s article, ‘Lacking their usual joy, the USWNT’s Olympic flaws are tough to pin on one root cause’: https://theathletic.com/2746658/2021/08/02/uswnt-olympics-losses/ For all our Olympic women’s soccer coverage at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/tag/tokyo-2020-womens-soccer/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s USA vs. Canada in the semifinals, what Meg has decided to call the Battle of the Bagels but also serves as a perfect rematch of the epic 2012 Olympic semifinal between the two teams. Preeminent Canadian Shireen Ahmed joins the pod to determine the stress levels on both sides of this semifinal ahead of Monday’s game. For all our Olympic women’s soccer coverage at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/tag/tokyo-2020-womens-soccer/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Four teams have moved on in the Olympics, with the USWNT, Canada, Australia and Sweden all now looking to bring home some medals. Steph Yang is back, and we discuss all four quarterfinals, how watching overlapping knockout rounds destroyed us, Alyssa Naeher stepping up for the USWNT and also discuss today’s update in the USWNT players’ appeal for equal pay, with the players of the USMNT throwing their support behind them for not just equal pay, but more pay. For all our Olympic women’s soccer coverage at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/tag/tokyo-2020-womens-soccer/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Big news, which means a bonus pod! Founder and CEO of Title Nine, Missy Park, joins the show to discuss her company’s one million dollar contribution to the USWNT Players’ Association to help close gap for equal pay, plus discusses how watching LFG played a role in this contribution, the Kick In For Equal Pay fund, and how this isn’t an ad for Title Nine, but woven into the company’s DNA in how they support women. For more on the Kick In For Equal Pay fund: www.KickInForEqualPay.com Follow Title Nine on Twitter: https://twitter.com/titlenine Follow the USWNT Players Association on Twitter: https://twitter.com/USWNTPlayers Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg and Steph are back to break down the final day of group stage matches from Japan, including the USWNT’s uninspired 0-0 draw with Australia, setting up a quarterfinal against the Netherlands (and a rematch of the 2019 World Cup final). We bid farewell to Chile, China, New Zealand and Zambia, and give our first impressions of the quarterfinal match-ups. For all our Olympic women’s soccer coverage at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/tag/tokyo-2020-womens-soccer/ Check out a sample from our sponsor, Artifact: https://www.heyartifact.com/loveletters/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg flies solo today with your Olympic preview for the final day of the group stage for the Olympic tournament, plus the latest from the equal pay lawsuit between the players of the USWNT and U.S. Soccer and a round-up of news from across the NWSL. For all our Olympic women’s soccer coverage at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/tag/tokyo-2020-womens-soccer/ Our guide to the tournament (free and unlocked to read): https://theathletic.com/2711374/2021/07/16/tokyo-2020-olympics-womens-football-soccer-guide/ Check out a sample from our sponsor, Artifact: https://www.heyartifact.com/loveletters/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The USWNT course corrected on Saturday with a 6-1 win over New Zealand, and Meg and Steph Yang are back with analysis of the second day of group stage matches from the Tokyo Olympics. Plus, from Barbra Banda to Brazil to Blackstenius, we review all the action after we break down what went right for the U.S. and what still needs cleaning up before they face Australia on Tuesday. For all our Olympic women’s soccer coverage at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/tag/tokyo-2020-womens-soccer/ Our guide to the tournament (free and unlocked to read): https://theathletic.com/2711374/2021/07/16/tokyo-2020-olympics-womens-football-soccer-guide/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Full Time is back for a preview of the second day of group stage matches, and The Athletic’s Matt Pentz joins for what we’re watching for as the USWNT plays New Zealand on Saturday. The team itself wants to be “absolutely ruthless” as they try to start digging out of the hole of that 3-0 loss to Sweden, but with the perspective of some more time between the loss and this podcast — what are the adjustments that need to be made? Plus, Meg gives you a quick breakdown on the other match-ups and how to watch in the U.S. For all our Olympic women’s soccer coverage at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/tag/tokyo-2020-womens-soccer/ Our guide to the tournament (free and unlocked to read): https://theathletic.com/2711374/2021/07/16/tokyo-2020-olympics-womens-football-soccer-guide/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The USWNT got a rude awakening to the start of their Olympic tournament, with Sweden dismantling them on Wednesday in a 3-0 win. Steph Yang joins for the first match-day reaction pod here at Full Time, where we try to make sense of the defeat and figure out what comes next, plus review the results from every single game (with big wins from the Netherlands and Brazil, opening victories from Team GB and Australia and Canada and Japan settling for the only draw on Wednesday). For all our Olympic women’s soccer coverage at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/tag/tokyo-2020-womens-soccer/ Our guide to the tournament (free and unlocked to read): https://theathletic.com/2711374/2021/07/16/tokyo-2020-olympics-womens-football-soccer-guide/ For even more Olympics podcasting from The Athletic, subscribe to The Offside Rule: Olympics Edition on Apple: ​​https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-offside-rule-olympics-edition/id1478431097 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Olympics are almost here — and we’re shifting into tournament mode at Full Time. Brooks Peck, deputy managing editor at The Athletic’s soccer vertical, helps kick off the first Olympics edition of the show as we preview the tournament and what we’re watching for in Japan, plus give you an overview of how to follow the tournament via our coverage. Plus: how to watch the opening day of games in the U.S.! For all our Olympic women’s soccer coverage at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/tag/tokyo-2020-womens-soccer/ Our guide to the tournament (free and unlocked to read): https://theathletic.com/2711374/2021/07/16/tokyo-2020-olympics-womens-football-soccer-guide/ For even more Olympics podcasting from The Athletic, subscribe to The Offside Rule: Olympics Edition on Apple: ​​https://podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/the-offside-rule-olympics-edition/id1478431097 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Mia Hamm joins Full Time to discuss setting a new record with her rookie card, Olympics from 1996 to 2021, how LAFC and AS Roma have taught her authenticity is important as an owner for Angel City, and more.  Follow Mia Hamm on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MiaHamm Read Adam Crafton and Katie Whyatt’s story on Manchester United Women: https://theathletic.com/2698027/ Follow all of our Olympic women’s soccer coverage at The Athletic in one place here: https://theathletic.com/tag/tokyo-2020-womens-soccer/ Hear the Foo Fighters Artifact here: https://youtu.be/H_ns8Mg-Dvk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’ve hit episode 50 of Full Time with Meg Linehan, and we’re celebrating with an extra-jammed pack episode. First, Sandra Herrera of CBS Sports hops on to catch up on the USWNT Send-Off Series, the NWSL and her new podcast with CBS and co-host Lisa Roman, Attacking Third. Then Adam Crafton of The Athletic joins and we get a bit outside the women’s game to discuss what’s been happening at Euro 2020 when it comes to rainbow armbands, stadiums lit up across Germany, and how governing bodies are addressing homophobia. Follow Sandra Herrera on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandHerrera_ Follow Attacking Third on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AttackingThird Subscribe to Attacking Third on Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/attacking-third-a-cbs-sports-soccer-podcast/id1573642138 Follow Adam Crafton on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AdamCrafton_ Read Adam’s story ‘UEFA, a rainbow armband and an uncomfortable blind eye to homophobia in eastern Europe’: https://theathletic.com/2665233/2021/06/22/uefa-a-rainbow-armband-and-an-uncomfortable-blind-eye-to-homophobia-in-eastern-europe/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Caiti Donovan, VP of data and insights with Sports Innovation Lab, joins Full Time to walk us through a new report designed to unlock the business case for women’s sports. Driven by fan data, we discuss the changing profile of fandom, quality over quantity of fan engagement and why fan behaviors are more important than fan demographics when trying to grow the game. Read The Fan Project report here: https://www.thefanproject.co/ Follow The Fan Project on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/thefanprojectco Follow Caiti Donovan on Twitter here: https://twitter.com/Caiti326 Read Steph Yang on Angel City FC’s new crest: https://theathletic.com/2681324/2021/06/30/angel-city-crest-nwsl/ Red Meg on Team Mew-S-A: https://theathletic.com/2673558/2021/06/25/sam-kristie-mewis-beer-uswnt/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg is back from Texas! Steph Yang hops on to discuss the final decisions for the USWNT Olympic roster, then Paul Tenorio joins to fill everyone in on the latest from the Olivia Moultrie vs. NWSL lawsuit. Spoiler: it did not go well for the NWSL.  Follow Steph on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thrace Our unlocked, free to read roster news story: https://theathletic.com/news/uswnt-reveals-18-player-olympic-squad-led-by-megan-rapinoe-rose-lavelle/P0TN1568gb39 Read our morning analysis of the roster: https://theathletic.com/2668995/2021/06/23/uswnt-olympic-roster-2021/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meg is back from Texas! Steph Yang hops on to discuss the final decisions for the USWNT Olympic roster, then Paul Tenorio joins to fill everyone in on the latest from the Olivia Moultrie vs. NWSL lawsuit. Spoiler: it did not go well for the NWSL.  Follow Steph on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thrace Follow Paul on Twitter: https://twitter.com/PaulTenorio Read Steph’s assessment of the USWNT roster: https://theathletic.com/2658453/2021/06/17/uswnt-olympics-roster-watch/ Read Paul’s latest on Moultrie vs. NWSL (free to read): https://theathletic.com/news/olivia-moultrie-wins-preliminary-injunction-in-fight-against-nwsls-age-rule/qfcnsLgl3BrV Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

HAO is back! Heather O’Reilly swings by the pod to help break down the USWNT roster and upcoming Summer Series games, with plenty of first-hand knowledge of how an 18-player Olympic roster gets made. From the role of alternates to how versatility is key, we try to tackle everything you need to watch these three games with the final roster in mind. Follow Heather O’Reilly on Twitter: https://twitter.com/HeatherOReilly Check out The Athletic’s Euros coverage: https://theathletic.com/tag/uefa-euro/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steph Yang has officially joined The Athletic as our second full time women’s soccer writer, and she joins the show to discuss the new role, avoid talking about herself at all costs, and actually talk about some soccer, the NWSL, and we face the ultimate question together: if we had 5 chickens like Crystal Dunn, what would we name them? Follow Steph Yang on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thrace Read Steph’s intro at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/2619997/2021/06/01/steph-yang-womens-soccer/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emina Ekic contributed a goal and an assist in Racing Louisville FC’s first victory of 2021 and their first as an expansion team. The hometown rookie joins Full Time to discuss moving up to the pros, pizza, and passing drills with Yuki Nagasato. Follow Emina Ekic on Twitter: https://twitter.com/emina_ekic10 Follow Emina Ekic on Instagram (this means you, Yuki): https://www.instagram.com/emina_ekic10/ Read Paul Tenorio on the USSF and SUM split: https://theathletic.com/2608411/ Read Shireen Ahmed’s story: https://www.tsn.ca/a-year-after-floyd-s-death-the-fight-for-accountability-and-justice-continues-1.1645014 Read Tim Graham’s story: https://theathletic.com/2585750/ Read Jeff Rueter’s story: https://theathletic.com/2613034/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Athletic’s Jeff Rueter joins Full Time to walk through the risks and rewards of rebranding a club as we examine what went wrong with Columbus Crew but right with Gotham FC, plus American soccer’s strange relationship with its own history. Also, of course, we discuss our favorite abandoned trademark, DOGSO. Follow Jeff on Twitter: https://twitter.com/jeffrueter More on the Santa Clara support section: https://theathletic.com/2597864/ More info/pre-order Secrets of Success: https://meglinehan.com/#book Read ‘Beats, cleats and eats: 10 strange North American soccer trademarks’ by Jeff Rueter and Pablo Maurer: https://theathletic.com/2005515/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kelli Hubly, defender for Portland Thorns FC, joins Full Time to talk about the first trophy of 2021 for the Thorns after their Challenge Cup success last weekend. Plus, she walks through the tournament final, provides insight on teammates like AD Franch and Christine Sinclair, and we reminisce about the time a basketball game broke out in the midst of a NWSL. media day Follow Kelli on Twitter: https://twitter.com/kellihubly Read more on Casey Stoney stepping down from Manchester United: https://theathletic.com/news/casey-stoney-manchester-united-women/KxhsjnNb4RF7 Read more on Mark Parsons heading to the Netherlands: https://theathletic.com/news/thorns-mark-parsons-to-coach-dutch-national-team-after-21-nwsl-season-sources/OTFLCsup0BN8 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A pretty jam-packed show this week on Full Time. First, Paul Tenorio of The Athletic joins to discuss the story of the lawsuit filed on behalf of 15-year-old Olivia Moultrie, who’s trying to sign a contract with Portland Thorns FC. Then, Howard Megdal of The Next and The IX Newsletter is on to break down all of the storylines around the NWSL Challenge Cup final, make a case for New Jersey’s finest Carli Lloyd, and take a step back to discuss the landscape of the NWSL and women’s sports coverage in general. Read Paul’s news story on the lawsuit: https://theathletic.com/news/teen-soccer-phenom-olivia-moultrie-sues-nwsl-for-right-to-play-in-league/Wz5D56HklWta Read Paul’s feature on how the age limit might pose antitrust problems for the NWSL: https://theathletic.com/2516805/2021/04/13/olivia-moultrie-nwsl-mls/ Follow Howard Megdal on Twitter: https://twitter.com/howardmegdal The Next Hoops on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheNextHoops The IX Newsletter (with Annie Peterson on women’s soccer!): https://twitter.com/TheIXNewsletter Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Meghann Burke, recently named executive director of the NWSL Players’ Association, joins the show to discuss her new role with the PA, her roots in women’s soccer and law, the process of how a CBA gets made and how this will define the new paradigm for the National Women’s Soccer League. Follow Meghann Burke on Twitter: https://twitter.com/meghannburke Visit the NWSLPA website: https://www.nwslplayers.com/ Follow the NWSLPA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/nwsl_players Yes, the schedule is out (2021 regular season edition): https://theathletic.com/news/nwsl-releases-schedule-for-2021-regular-season-which-kicks-off-may-15/HCmeVnzJNLzG A Saturday with NWSL Analitica tickets: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/a-saturday-with-nwsl-analitica-tickets-152020195497 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Kaylyn Kyle has been on plenty of the calls for the Challenge Cup so far, and she’s on Full Time to cover a lot of NWSL ground, plus the Olympic draw, the short life of the European Super League (born April 18, 2021; died April 20, 2021), and saying nice things about Americans. Follow Kaylyn on Twitter: https://twitter.com/KaylynKyle Follow Kaylyn on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kaylynkyle/ For more on Full Time: https://fulltimepod.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The late night Sunday announcement of the European Super League could only mean one thing — a bonus episode to focus entirely on what this means for women’s football. Caoimhe O’Neill, staff writer at The Athletic covering Liverpool, joins the show to break down what we know so far about the breakaway league’s vague promise of a corresponding women’s version. Follow Caoimhe on Twitter: https://twitter.com/CaoimheSport Read her article with Phil Buckingham on what the European Super League means for women’s football: https://theathletic.com/2529546/ For all of The Athletic’s stories on the European Super League: https://theathletic.com/tag/european-super-league/ For more on Full Time: https://fulltimepod.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sandra Herrera of CBS Sports and Steph Yang of All for XI join Full Time to help try and make sense of the past week across the NWSL and FIFA window, on and mostly off the field as the NWSL continues to try and navigate its generational growing pains. Follow Sandra on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandHerrera_ Follow Steph on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thrace Follow Yuki Nagasato on Twitter (you won’t regret it): https://twitter.com/Yuki_Ogimi For more on Full Time: https://fulltimepod.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Full Time with Meg Linehan is back from vacation mode and just in time for the kick off of the 2021 NWSL Challenge Cup. Alyse LaHue, just updated her job title from general manager of Sky Blue FC to general manager of NJ/NY Gotham FC, and she joined the podcast to go in-depth on the decision to rebrand one of the most historic pro women’s soccer clubs in the country. For everything Gotham FC: https://www.gothamfc.com/ Follow Alyse LaHue on Twitter: https://twitter.com/alahue Challenge Cup guide: https://theathletic.com/2438627/ Read “The NWSL Policy on Transgender Athletes is Not a Policy of Trans Inclusion” at The Victory Press: https://victorypress.org/2021/04/03/the-nwsl-policy-on-transgender-athletes-is-not-a-policy-of-trans-inclusion/ Get Erica L. Ayala to the 2022 Winter Olympics! https://gofund.me/f0aa76ac Full Time with Meg Linehan listener survey: https://forms.gle/9TS7CKXpF5vwY76E9 For more on Full Time: https://fulltimepod.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Marcus Thompson II, lead columnist at The Athletic, is back on Full Time to discuss his latest article, ‘Please don’t shrink’: Inside the movement to elevate Black women in U.S. soccer. We discuss his comprehensive story, and who gets to be the face of U.S. soccer.  Follow Marcus on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ThompsonScribe Read ‘Please don’t shrink’: Inside the movement to elevate Black women in U.S. soccer: https://theathletic.com/2404984/ Chantel Jennings’ full guide to the 2021 NCAA tournament and March Madness bracket: https://theathletic.com/2454892/ Black Women’s Player Collective fundraiser: https://www.gofundme.com/f/black-womens-player-collective Full Time with Meg Linehan listener survey: https://forms.gle/9TS7CKXpF5vwY76E9 For more on Full Time: https://fulltimepod.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Emily Anderson and Lesley Ryder of Gal Pal Sports join Full Time to discuss comedy, content, and the culture of the NWSL, why Alyse LaHue of Sky Blue FC makes for the perfect inspiration for their videos, and plenty more. Follow Gal Pal Sports on Twitter: https://twitter.com/galpalsports Yes, you can still get the shirt: https://www.customink.com/fundraising/isthescheduleoutyet Read Meg's story on the 2021 Challenge Cup at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/2438627/ The Fan Project: https://thefanproject.co/For more on Full Time with Meg Linehan: https://fulltimepod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Professional Women’s Hockey Player Association just played the first pro women’s hockey game ever at Madison Square Garden last week — and Meghan Duggan, who won a gold medal in 2018 and seven IIHF Women’s World Championships with USA Hockey, joins the show to help introduce the PWHPA and discuss the state of women’s hockey in America. You can watch another PWHPA game between Team Minnesota and Team New Hampshire on March 6 at 3 p.m. ET on NBCSN. For more on Duggan’s career at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/2135654/ For more on the PWHPA’s night at MSG: https://theathletic.com/2419369/ Follow Meghan Duggan on Twitter: https://twitter.com/mduggan10 For more on Full Time with Meg Linehan: https://fulltimepod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jeff Kassouf of Equalizer Soccer is here to help make sense of how NWSL federation contracts, allocation money and cap space all work together, plus we catch up on the state of Sacramento’s expansion bid, Angel City sponsorships, new owners in Chicago and across the league, plus some thoughts on media coverage of women’s soccer for 2021. Subscribe to Equalizer Soccer: https://equalizersoccer.com/subscribe/ Read Jeff’s article on NWSL federation contracts: https://equalizersoccer.com/2021/03/03/making-sense-of-nwsl-federation-contracts-redux/ Follow Jeff Kassouf on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JeffKassouf For more on Full Time with Meg Linehan: https://fulltimepod.com $40 off your first Artifact: heyartifact.com/fulltime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Julia Poe of the Orlando Sentinel was on-site for the entire SheBelieves Cup, and checks back in on Full Time to discuss the performances of Argentina, Brazil, Canada and the U.S. Is there a wrong answer for the USWNT Olympic roster? Is there a perfect one? We discuss! Follow Julia on Twitter: https://twitter.com/byjuliapoe Black Women’s Player Collective fundraiser: https://gofund.me/2b5f01d8 For more on Full Time with Meg Linehan: https://fulltimepod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

André Carlisle and Courtney Stith join Full Time for a very fun crossover episode with their new podcast, Diaspora United, a soccer podcast that centers Black women in the global game. The conversation is wide-ranging from the reason for starting their show, to how women’s soccer approaches Black History Month to SheBelieves Cup to all the soccer merchandise we keep buying. Our SheBelieves Cup guide, unlocked and free to read for all: https://theathletic.com/2395057/2021/02/17/ Follow André Carlisle on Twitter: https://twitter.com/not_carlisle Follow Courtney Stith on Twitter: https://twitter.com/CourtneyStith Follow Diaspora United on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DiasporaUtdPod And listen to the pod here: https://anchor.fm/diaspora-united For more on Full Time with Meg Linehan: https://fulltimepod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

FOX Sports analyst Aly Wagner joins Full Time for a special bonus episode to preview SheBelieves Cup, including how we should be watching the USWNT right now, what to expect from Canada, Brazil and Argentina, players to watch and plenty more. Follow Aly Wagner on Twitter: https://twitter.com/alywagner For more on Full Time with Meg Linehan: https://fulltimepod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The NWSL made some huge strides in 2020, from new sponsorships to increased television viewership. But did the NWSL improve on some key areas, like transparency, brand identity, and culture? Meg first revisits her 2020 NWSL Wishlist, before adding some new items onto her list for the 2021 season. Read Meg’s 2020 NWSL Wishlist: https://theathletic.com/1343830/ For more on Full Time with Meg Linehan: https://fulltimepod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steph Yang once again makes her return to Full Time as she and Meg try to make sense of the USWNT roster situation ahead of SheBelieves Cup and the 2021 Olympics, with plenty of pop culture references to go around.   Follow Steph on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thrace Read USWNT’s Olympic roster is still in progress, but taking shape on The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/2360649/ Read The rise of Lynn Williams by Matt Pentz on The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/2364457/ Read ‘Tonight, I will not sleep.’ Bill Walton: A text exchange, a call, and the tao of Bill by Chris Kamrani: https://theathletic.com/2361958/ For more on Full Time with Meg Linehan: https://fulltimepod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Kamrani is back on Full Time to discuss our coverage of the big breaking news in the NWSL: global tennis superstar Naomi Osaka has joined the ownership group of the North Carolina Courage. Chris and Meg break down the story and Osaka’s approach to her new role, plus what this means for the Courage and the NWSL. Follow Chris Kamrani on Twitter: https://twitter.com/chriskamrani Read the story on Naomi Osaka joining the North Carolina Courage ownership group: https://theathletic.com/2350082/ Read Chris’s feature on Becky Hammon: https://theathletic.com/2333024/ For more on Full Time with Meg Linehan: https://fulltimepod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re right back into the swing of things in the women’s soccer world. First, Heather O’Reilly joins the show to discuss the first match of 2021 for the USWNT and the state of the team while they prepare for the Olympics, then Jessica McDonald of the North Carolina Courage discusses a new partnership and what’s in store for her year ahead. Follow Heather O’Reilly on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/heatheroreilly/ Follow Jessica McDonald on Twitter: https://twitter.com/J_Mac1422 For more on Soccer Resilience: https://soccerresilience.com/ Follow Diaspora United Podcast on Twitter: https://twitter.com/DiasporaUtdPod Why Becky Sauerbrunn was a perfect choice for USWNT captain: https://theathletic.com/2330698/ For more on Full Time with Meg Linehan: https://fulltimepod.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After an extremely busy week in the NWSL and the USWNT full of news, Meg is here with a full breakdown of the 2021 NWSL Draft. First, No. 3 overall pick Brianna Pinto joins Full Time to discuss her decision to declare early and make the leap to the pros and her reaction to being drafted by Sky Blue FC. Then, former USWNT player and analyst Lori Lindsey is back to discuss the adjustment to a virtual draft, which teams had the best night, which teams have more work to do and more. For more on Full Time with Meg Linehan: https://fulltimepod.com Follow Brianna Pinto on Twitter: https://twitter.com/b_pinto9 Follow Lori Lindsey on Twitter: https://twitter.com/LoriLindsey6 For more NWSL coverage: https://theathletic.com/nwsl/ For more USWNT coverage: https://theathletic.com/team/uswnt/ Watch Megan Rapinoe’s press conference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zv30fjgAJXU Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Full Time is back for 2021! The January camp roster is in for the USWNT, and Meg kicks the year off with writer and activist Shireen Ahmed to discuss how sports (and women’s sports in particular) can be drivers of change, the state of the Canada women’s national team, and plenty more.  For more on Full Time with Meg Linehan: https://fulltimepod.com Read “After an agonizing year, sport must be a vehicle for change in 2021” by Shireen Ahmed: https://www.tsn.ca/shireen-ahmed-after-an-agonizing-year-sport-must-be-a-vehicle-for-change-in-2021-1.1570552 Follow Shireen on Twitter: https://twitter.com/_shireenahmed_ Read “Inside the WNBA’s evolution from a league of activists to organizers” by Chantel Jennings: https://theathletic.com/2137508/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

An all-Meg edition of Full Time to close out 2020 — with a look back at the year and the major storylines, and then tackling your questions in our second attempt at a listener mailbag. Thank you for listening to Full Time with Meg Linehan in 2020, thank you for making us a Best of 2020 selection at The Athletic, and we’ll see you again in 2021. Ask a question/provide some 2020/2021 feedback: https://forms.gle/pxgaHrQzwpfEvtex9 Buy one/gift one for your new Athletic subscription: theathletic.com/fulltime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

This week, Full Time is breaking down the giant NWSL news of the relocation of Utah Royals FC to Kansas City, from the perspective of both markets. Chris Kamrani of The Athletic joins from Utah to walk through our reporting on the Royals and Utah Soccer Holdings, including what comes next and the potential for the team to return in 2023. Then, Blue Crew media director Danielle Russell gives the Kansas City perspective, with a look back at 2017 and the journey to a second chance at a NWSL team. Follow Chris Kamrani on Twitter: https://twitter.com/chriskamrani Read the latest reporting on Utah at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/2247321/ Read the Q&A with Angie and Chris Long: https://theathletic.com/2247699/ Follow the Blue Crew: https://twitter.com/kcbluecrew Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

First, Brooks Peck of The Athletic joins Full Time to fully break down The Year of Kristie Mewis after her return to the USWNT and goal against the Netherlands. Then, Arianna Scavetti of Lyon Offside helps break down just what is happening with the France national team as the conflict between captain Amandine Henry and head coach Corinne Diacre elevates in a public fashion. Follow Brooks on Twitter: https://twitter.com/BrooksDT Read Brooks on Kristie Mewis during the Challenge Cup: https://theathletic.com/1955627/ And read Brooks on Kristie Mewis, USWNT goalscorer: https://theathletic.com/2225800/ Follow Arianna on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AScavs Find her work at Lyon Offside: https://lyonoffside.com/author/ascavetti/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John D. Halloran checks in from Chicago to break down the USWNT roster for their upcoming six-day camp and friendly against the Netherlands, plus reactions to the NWSL’s new plans for the 2021 season and the state of NWSL coverage. Follow John on Twitter: https://twitter.com/JohnDHalloran Follow John’s Work at The Equalizer: https://equalizersoccer.com/author/john-d-halloran/ More on the USWNT roster call-ups: https://theathletic.com/2204300/2020/11/17/final-uswnt-squad-of-2020-is-about-small-changes-not-seismic-shifts/ More on the plans for 2021 at the NWSL: https://theathletic.com/2205704/2020/11/18/nwsl-announces-modified-2021-schedule-including-challenge-cup-return/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steph Yang from All for XI is back — and we do our best to make sense of the NWSL expansion draft for Racing Louisville FC and the picks made on Thursday night, including the rights to Tobin Heath and Christen Press. Follow Steph on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thrace All for XI: https://www.allforxi.com/ Recap of Meg’s Live Q&A from during the expansion draft: https://theathletic.com/2189811/2020/11/10/live-qa-nwsl-expansion-draft-with-meg-linehan-on-11-12-at-7-p-m-et/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Ann Odong zooms in from Australia and we catch up on a decade-plus of trying to grow the game and coverage of women’s soccer, look ahead to the 2023 World Cup in Australia and New Zealand (yes, this includes quokka talk) and discuss managing burn-out, sightseeing on soccer trips and most importantly, community. Follow Ann on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AnnOdong Follow The Matildas on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheMatildas An entire documentary on quokkas: https://youtu.be/JLJ7NnpmGus Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Steph Yang of All for XI is back on Full Time to help break down the rules of the upcoming NWSL expansion draft for Racing Louisville FC, game out some scenarios of how we think the draft might go, and propose a plan so wild it might just work. Follow Steph on Twitter: https://twitter.com/thrace All for XI: https://www.allforxi.com/ Meg’s expansion draft story at The Athletic: https://theathletic.com/2161738/2020/10/26/nwsl-expansion-draft-rules-racing-louisville/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Sam Stejskal and Pablo Maurer of The Athletic join Full Time to discuss their latest reporting on political donations from MLS owners and how they’re at odds with the social causes the teams and fans support, and how this lens applies to the NWSL and the American soccer landscape. Follow Sam on Twitter: https://twitter.com/samstejskal Follow Pablo on Twitter: https://twitter.com/MLSist Read Disconnect: As MLS teams back social causes, owners’ money often fights them by Pablo and Sam: https://theathletic.com/2148851/ Read On Living Well and Writing Furiously by Adam Whittaker Snavely: https://snavely.substack.com/p/on-living-well-and-writing-furiously Read USWNT’s Vlatko Andonovski on how scouting, preparation led to October’s call-ups by Meg: https://theathletic.com/2142137/ Listen to Soccer 101 from Total Soccer Show: https://www.totalsoccershow.com/soccer101 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Anne M. Peterson of AP Sports is in this week to break down the NWSL Fall Series, especially her local team in Portland, the U.S. women’s national team camp roster, plus her coverage at the Associated Press and how we survived at the 2019 World Cup. Follow Anne on Twitter: https://twitter.com/AnnieMPeterson Subscribe to The IX newsletter: https://theix.substack.com/subscribe AP’s women’s soccer hub: https://apnews.com/hub/womens-soccer Read Matt Pentz on Madison Hammond of OL Reign: https://theathletic.com/2133313/ Read Meg’s story on Meghan Duggan’s retirement: https://theathletic.com/2135654/2 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s mailbag time! You had questions — a lot of them. Here are the answers in an extra-long episode to fit as many in as possible. Topics include: Kristie Mewis making her USWNT return, some early thoughts on the upcoming expansion draft, merchandise, women’s soccer coverage at the Athletic, and a lot of questions about books and beer, plus a hard sell on watching Ted Lasso. Read “Ted Lasso” pulls off rare jump from Premier League promos to sitcom success by Chris Kamrani: https://theathletic.com/2094135/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Angela Hucles (4:28) joins Full Time from her garage recording set-up to discuss calling games remotely, what’s happening with the USL, her ownership with the NWSL expansion team in Los Angeles, finding her leadership voice and some WUSA memories. Follow Angela Hucles on Twitter at: https://twitter.com/angelahucles Fueling Dynamic Leaders: https://www.fuelingdynamicleaders.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

First, Julia Poe of the Orlando Sentinel (6:01) walks us through the Orlando Pride’s approach to the Fall Series and beyond with a ton of local insight, then Sandra Herrera of CBS Sports (28:54) is back again to rep Chicago, plus discuss the stakes of NWSL games right now and the disrespect of Crystal Dunn.   Follow Julia Poe on Twitter: https://twitter.com/jpoe24601   Follow Sandra Herrera on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandHerrera_   Watch Katie Nolan’s segment (ONE OF US): https://youtu.be/BuNRvHt8t1Y Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lori Lindsey (4:28) takes some time out of her busy schedule of working both NWSL and MLS games to discuss her own broadcast career, work through some potential ideas for improvement for the league with Meg, and shine some light on her role with the Athlete’s Council after last week’s U.S. Soccer board meeting.   Follow Lori on Twitter https://twitter.com/LoriLindsey6   Support Thorns FC’s fundraising efforts to help in the wake of the wildfires: https://twitter.com/ThornsFC/status/1304940356551798784   ‘I was sure she was going to be dead at 25’: A figure skater’s redemptive journey by Katie Strang theathletic.com/2050283/   ‘God was in town’: The night Diego Maradona played in Canada by Pablo Maurer theathletic.com/2062114/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Lindsey Horan of Portland Thorns FC joins the show to discuss preparations for the NWSL Fall Series ahead of Portland vs. OL Reign, plus her thoughts on the NWSL’s deal with CBS and more. Then, Esmerelda Negron of Atalanta Media discusses her involvement with bringing women’s football to television, including the WSL deal with NBC Sports.   Read Hope Solo’s response to hall of fame snub: ‘It does nothing to weaken my fight’ at The Athletic: theathletic.com/2053903/   Follow Ata Football on Twitter: https://twitter.com/atafball   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Chris Kamrani and Paul Tenorio of The Athletic Soccer are on the podcast to discuss our ongoing reporting into Dell Loy Hansen and the toxic culture in Utah across Real Salt Lake, Utah Royals FC and the Real Monarchs.   Allocation Disorder with Paul Tenorio and Sam Stejskal: https://theathletic.com/podcast/209-allocation-disorder/?episode=10   Dell Loy Hansen has history of racist comments as RSL owner: theathletic.com/2027796/   Dell Loy Hansen to sell soccer holdings after revelations of racist behavior: theathletic.com/2032308/   Employees describe a Utah Soccer culture turned toxic under Hansen, Carroll: theathletic.com/2037881/   What interim president hire signals about Real Salt Lake, Utah Royals’ future: theathletic.com/2040016/   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Jessica Luther and Kavitha Davidson join Full Time to discuss their new book “Loving Sports When They Don’t Love You Back: Dilemmas of the Modern Fan,” the challenges of watching sports during a pandemic, women’s sports coverage, and the intersection of politics and sports — all in the scope of the NWSL and women’s soccer.   Follow Jessica Luther on Twitter: https://twitter.com/jessicawluther   Follow Kavitha Davidson on Twitter: https://twitter.com/kavithadavidson   Buy Loving Sports When They Don’t Love You Back: https://bookshop.org/books/loving-sports-when-they-don-t-love-you-back-dilemmas-of-the-modern-fan/9781477313138   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Executive director of the U.S. women’s national team players association, Becca Roux joins the show to discuss how she ended up in the middle of NWSL expansion efforts with the new Los Angeles team, the relationship between the USWNTPA, NWSLPA and the NWSL, and more. Then we go big picture and look at the ecosystem of women’s soccer in America and how to embrace change.   Follow the USWNTPA on Twitter: https://twitter.com/USWNTPlayers   Read more about NWSL expansion in Sacramento: https://theathletic.com/2008254/2020/08/19/sources-nwsl-to-add-sacramento-team-for-2021-season/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

We’re going all in on a WNBA x NWSL crossover with The Athletic’s Chantel Jennings, from her new role as the WNBA staff writer, to the bubble experience in Florida and how the WNBA is prioritizing social justice and how the NWSL can learn from their approach. We’re comparing notes across the board on how women’s professional sports are approaching 2020.   Read Chantel’s story on how the WNBA brought home-court advantage to the Wubble: theathletic.com/1989124/   Follow Chantel Jennings on Twitter: https://twitter.com/ChantelJennings   Soccer’s ugly sexism is keeping women from coaching the beautiful game by Steph Yang: https://www.sbnation.com/2017/6/27/15873624/soccer-female-coaches-sexism Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

NWSL Commissioner Lisa Baird (2:03) has gotten her one (1) day off since the NWSL Challenge Cup and joins Meg to reflect on her month in Utah, expansion, the league’s next steps on diversity and inclusion, and more.   Read the results of the NWSL Supporter’s Survey Challenge Cup Edition: https://theathletic.com/1972905/   Follow Lisa Baird on Twitter: https://twitter.com/lisainog   Subscribe to Bria Felicien’s newsletter The Black Sportswoman https://blacksportswoman.substack.com/ Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The Houston Dash are your NWSL Challenge Cup champions — and Rachel Daly, Kristie Mewis and Shea Groom all join the pod to discuss the bubble, the soccer and the epic celebrations (2:08). For a bigger picture at the success of the Challenge Cup, Meg is also joined by co-executive director of the NWSL players’ association, Brooke Elby (19:31). Read Brooks Peck on Kristie Mewis and her epic celebrations: https://theathletic.com/1955627/2020/07/27/i-never-win-anything-just-let-me-live-kristie-mewis-savors-her-moment/ Read more about what comes next for the NWSL: https://theathletic.com/1951422/2020/07/25/nwsl-tells-players-to-save-a-date-for-a-return-as-challenge-cup-wraps-up/ Follow the NWSL PA on Twitter:  https://twitter.com/nwsl_players Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

The NWSL Challenge Cup final is set for Sunday between the Houston Dash and Chicago Red Stars (12:30 ET/CBS), and Steph Yang of All for XI (2:31) joins the pod to talk about the tournament, take a stroll down memory lane with it comes to the Boston Breakers, and also determine what NWSL players we would want for back-up in a fight. You know, the usual for the two of us. Find all of our NWSL coverage here: https://theathletic.com/nwsl/ Sources: Sam Mewis joining Manchester City, Rose Lavelle considering offer: https://theathletic.com/1940211/ Follow Steph on Twitter: twitter.com/thrace Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A special bonus pod of Full Time with Meg Linehan — thanks to major NWSL expansion news, as the league has awarded a team to a new ownership group in Los Angeles. Meg is joined by two of the team’s founders: media and gaming entrepreneur Julie Uhrman and tech entrepreneur Alexis Ohanian (3:00) to discuss all things Angel City, and their hopes for the team ahead of the planned start in the 2022 NWSL season.   Find all of our NWSL coverage here, including our NWSL expansion stories: https://theathletic.com/nwsl/   Follow Angel City on Twitter: https://twitter.com/weareangelcity Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Episode four of Full Time with Meg Linehan, and we’re through the preliminary round of the NWSL Challenge Cup and as sleep-deprived as ever. First, Christen Press and Tobin Heath (3:24) are on the show to discuss what they’ve been up to in quarantine and the power of mentorship, then writer André Carlisle joins Meg (29:08) to break down the Challenge Cup quarterfinals and go deep on the Washington Spirit.   Find all of our NWSL coverage here: https://theathletic.com/nwsl/   Read André on Ashley Sanchez and the art of trying things: https://www.blackandredunited.com/washington-spirit-womens-soccer/2020/7/10/21317031/washington-spirit-ashley-sanchez-nwsl-challenge-cup   Follow André on Twitter: https://twitter.com/not_carlisle Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s episode three of Full Time with Meg Linehan, and Meg is joined by noted NWSL Expert Sandra Herrera who’s been locking down CBS’ editorial coverage of the NWSL Challenge Cup, as well as their pregame and postgame analysis shows (2:21). Sandra’s here to talk about her new gig, the Challenge Cup, and help me finally decide if Julie Ertz is properly appreciated. Find all of our NWSL coverage here: https://theathletic.com/nwsl/ Read Sandra’s work on CBS Sports: https://www.cbssports.com/writers/sandra-herrera/ Follow Sandra on Twitter: https://twitter.com/SandHerrera_ Andrew Keh and Andrew Das on the NWSL’s PPP loan: https://www.nytimes.com/2020/07/02/sports/soccer/nwsl-ppp-loan.html   Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s episode two of Full Time with Meg Linehan, and the sleep deprivation from the Challenge Cup is already kicking in, but we’re talking soccer and much larger things with Crystal Dunn of the North Carolina Courage (3:38) and fellow Athletic writer Marcus Thompson II (27:45).    Find all of our NWSL coverage here (plus Matt, Britt and Lindsey’s stories): https://theathletic.com/nwsl/   Read Marcus’ column from this past Sunday:  https://theathletic.com/1897344/2020/06/28/quarantine-randomness-casey-short-julie-ertz-display-the-heart-thats-needed/   Follow Marcus on Twitter at twitter.com/ThompsonScribe Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Welcome to the first episode of Full Time with Meg Linehan. We’re kicking things off with interviews with the Orlando Pride’s Ali Krieger (7:38) on the NWSL Challenge Cup (recorded before the Pride withdrew) and how she uses her platform, and fellow reporter Bria Felicien (30:17) on how Black players in the NWSL have navigated training, protests and conversations this month in the lead-up to the tournament.   Read Bria’s piece for All for XI: https://www.allforxi.com/2020/6/9/21284843/black-nwsl-players-tired-anxious-still-training-amidst-national-anti-racism-protest   Read the tournament guide to the NWSL Challenge Cup: https://theathletic.com/1889307/2020/06/24/nwsl-challenge-cup-guide-everything-you-need-to-know-to-follow-along/  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Debuting Thursday, June 25th on The Athletic:   Full Time with Meg Linehan is a weekly soccer podcast expanding The Athletic’s coverage of the U.S. women’s national team, the National Women’s Soccer League, and the larger world of international soccer. Meg tackles the culture, context, and conversations about the sport here in America and beyond, with help from fellow writers and insiders from all corners of the game.   Subscribe to The Athletic using this special promo and receive 40% off! https://theathletic.com/fulltime Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices