it’s because of sports is a podcast exploring the journeys of athletes, coaches, and professional women, from competition to careers beyond the game. Where sport meets life, for athletes, fans, and anyone navigating what’s next.
18: Watch Me Sports Bar’s Jax Diener - Creating A Home for Sports Fans
On today's pod, Stef Z and Jax discuss the vibrant community at WatchMe Sports Bar, the excitement of hosting sports legends, and the importance of creating a welcoming environment for all. They explore the dynamics of community and teamwork, emphasizing the significance of camaraderie and inclusivity in their space. Jax shares insights on the evolution of the bar and the unique events they host, while also humorously contemplating what their mascot would be, ultimately landing on a fiery jalapeno.
5 Nov 2025
17: Coach Hunter - Wisdom Beyond the Game
In this inspiring episode, join us as we sit down with Coach Hunter, the head volleyball coach at Jack Yates High School in Houston. Coach Hunter shares her journey from a young athlete to a mentor shaping the lives of young women. Discover how sports have been a transformative force in her life, teaching lessons of teamwork, discipline, and self-belief. Through heartfelt stories and wisdom, Coach Hunter reveals the power of sports to build confident leaders and resilient individuals. Tune in to explore the profound impact of sports beyond the game.
29 Oct 2025
16: Culture Wins: Cori Close on Leadership at UCLA
In this episode of "It's Because of Sports," host Stef Z sits down with Cori Close, the head coach of the UCLA women's basketball team. Known for her leadership and impact beyond the game, Cori shares her journey from a player to a respected coach, emphasizing the importance of culture, character, and connection. Discover how she navigates the challenges of modern college athletics, the role of sports in personal development, and her vision for empowering the next generation of female athletes. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about sports, leadership, and life lessons that transcend the court.
22 Oct 2025
15: Alisha Pope: The Intersection of Business and Sport
Join us in this inspiring episode as we sit down with Alisha Pope, the head of sports and sponsorship strategy at MGM Resorts International. Alisha shares her journey from playing basketball to leading strategic sports partnerships, highlighting the transformative power of sports in shaping careers and culture. Discover how sports teach invaluable life skills like teamwork, resilience, and adaptability, and explore the unique role Las Vegas plays in the evolving sports landscape. Whether you're an athlete, a fan, or navigating your own career path, Alisha's insights offer a fresh perspective on the intersection of sports and business.
15 Oct 2025
14: Cycling the World: Vedangi Kulkarni’s Story of Resilience
Join us on an inspiring journey with Vedangi Kulkarni, the youngest woman to cycle around the world. At just 19, Vedangi embarked on a global adventure that tested her physical endurance and mental resilience. In this episode, she shares her insights on courage, vulnerability, and the transformative power of sports. Discover how Vedangi's experiences have shaped her perspective on life and the lessons she learned along the way. Tune in to hear her story of perseverance and the profound impact of embracing challenges. #AdventureCycling #Inspiration #SportsJourney
For more information on Stef Z's non-profit Section Z -- or to donate -- visit https://thesectionz.com/donate
8 Oct 2025
13: Kalen Wright from USC to ESPN
Join host Steph Z as she sits down with Kalen Wright, a former USC basketball player and seasoned sports television director. In this episode, Kalen shares her journey from the courts of USC to directing NBA games, highlighting the challenges and triumphs of women in sports. Discover how her passion for basketball led to a 35-year career in sports broadcasting, and hear her insights on the evolving landscape of women's sports. Whether you're a sports enthusiast or curious about the behind-the-scenes of sports media, this conversation offers a unique perspective on the intersection of athletics and media. Tune in for an inspiring discussion on resilience, passion, and the power of sports.
1 Oct 2025
12: Inside the Journey of Professional Soccer Player Machaela George
Join host Stef Z as she sits down with Michaela George, a remarkable defender whose journey spans from Santa Clara University to the NWSL with OL Reign, and international stints in Denmark and Portugal. Known for her grit and leadership, Michaela shares the resilience required to pursue dreams in professional sports, discussing the highs, challenges, and invaluable lessons from her soccer career. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about chasing dreams and navigating life beyond the game.
24 Sept 2025
11: Sports Medicine in Action | Dr. Heather Linden on UFC Athletes
Join us on "It's Because of Sports" as we dive into the fascinating world of sports medicine with Dr. Heather Linden, the Senior Director at the UFC Performance Institute. From her beginnings in physical therapy to supporting Team USA at the Olympics, Heather shares her journey of passion, resilience, and innovation in athlete care. Discover how she leads a global team to keep UFC athletes performing at their best, and learn about the groundbreaking protocols and brain health initiatives shaping the future of sports medicine. Whether you're a fan, athlete, or just curious about the intersection of sports and science, this episode offers a unique glimpse behind the scenes.
17 Sept 2025
10: Zoë Bell | Beyond the Stunts
Today, Stef Z sits down with the legendary stuntwoman and actress Zoë Bell. From her early days in gymnastics on a small island in New Zealand to becoming a trailblazer in Hollywood, Zoë shares her journey of resilience, courage, and creativity. Discover how sports shaped her career, the challenges she faced breaking into the stunt industry, and her thoughts on the importance of body awareness and self-defense. Join us for an inspiring conversation that delves into the heart of what it means to be a strong, fearless woman in a demanding industry. Don't miss this exclusive insight into Zoë's world, where sports and life intersect in the most unexpected ways.
10 Sept 2025
9: Lucy Han | Pro Beach Volleyball Player & Aerospace Engineer
Join host Stef Z as she sits down with Lucy Han, a former pro beach volleyball player, aerospace engineer, and community advocate. Discover how Lucy's journey from the sands of Santa Monica to the halls of engineering has been fueled by tenacity and a passion for breaking barriers. From her trailblazing days on the AVP tour to her impactful work in community advocacy, Lucy shares insights on resilience, leadership, and the power of sports to shape a fulfilling career. Tune in for an inspiring conversation that highlights the intersection of athletics, STEM, and community service.
3 Sept 2025
8: Valerie Tyson | Wasserman, The Collective on Setting Female Athletes Up for Success.
Director of Marketing for Wasserman’s The Collective Valerie Tyson discusses how to set female athletes up for success in sport and beyond!
27 Aug 2025
7: Jasmyne Spencer | Professional Soccer Player & Advocate for Sustainability
Join us on "It's Because of Sports" as we explore the inspiring journey of Jasmyne Spencer, a professional soccer player, entrepreneur, and advocate for equity and sustainability. From her early days on the soccer field to her impactful work in environmental justice, Jasmyne shares how sports have shaped her life and career. Discover her insights on breaking barriers, the importance of community, and the joy of playing the game she loves. Tune in for an engaging conversation that highlights the power of sports to transform lives and communities.
20 Aug 2025
6: Molly Carlson | Professional High Diver and Brave Gang CEO
Join host Stef Z as she dives into an inspiring conversation with Molly Carlson, a Canadian high diver and Red Bull cliff diving athlete. Discover how Molly transitioned from gymnastics to diving, overcame performance anxiety, and founded the Brave Gang community. This episode explores the mental challenges athletes face, the importance of authenticity, and how Molly's journey redefines bravery. Tune in to hear Molly's insights on mental health, her viral moments, and the power of vulnerability in sports.
13 Aug 2025
5: Muralist Corie Mattie: The Overlap of Sports & Art
In this episode, join Stef Z as she sits down with Corie Mattie, the renowned LA Hope Dealer, to explore the intersection of sports, art, and activism. Corie shares her journey from being an athlete to becoming a celebrated muralist, highlighting her passion for creating impactful art that challenges perspectives and promotes gender equity in sports. Discover how Corie's unique path has led her to blend her love for sports and art, making a statement in the world of female muralists.
6 Aug 2025
4: 3x Pentathlon National Champion Jadin O’Brien
In this episode of "It's Because of Sports," host Stef Z sits down with Jadin O'Brien, a three-time pentathlon national champion, to explore her journey as a multi-sport athlete. Jadin shares her experiences overcoming personal challenges, including a rare childhood illness, and how these shaped her mental toughness and competitive spirit. Discover how Jadin balances vulnerability with strength, her aspirations for the Olympics, and her unexpected path to potentially joining the Olympic bobsled team. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about resilience, ambition, and the power of sports to transform lives.
30 Jul 2025
3: USWNT and Soccer Broadcaster Lori Lindsey
Join us for an inspiring conversation with Lori Lindsey, former professional soccer player and current broadcaster, as she shares her journey from playing on boys' teams in Indiana to representing the U.S. Women's National Team. Discover how sports shaped her identity, the challenges she faced, and her passion for equity and inclusion in women's sports. Lori also discusses her transition to broadcasting and the importance of leaving a legacy for future generations. Tune in for insights on teamwork, personal growth, and the evolving landscape of women's soccer.
23 Jul 2025
2: AEG’s Tamala Lewis: Community and the Four Ups
Join host Stef Z on "It's Because of Sports" as she sits down with Tamala Lewis, the Senior Director of Community Affairs at AEG's Dignity Health Sports Park. In this episode, they explore Tamala's inspiring journey from her roots in Ohio to her impactful role in community relations. Discover how sports and music create connections, the importance of giving back, and the power of women supporting women in the entertainment industry. Tune in for an engaging conversation filled with insights, laughter, and the four ups: stand up, speak up, show up, and pull someone else up. Don't miss this episode that celebrates the joy and unity sports bring to our lives
16 Jul 2025
1: Olympic Rugby Medalist Steph Rovetti
Join us for a powerful and inspiring conversation with Steph Rovetti, Olympic bronze medalist in rugby at the Paris 2024 Games. Steph shares her remarkable journey from college basketball to the world of Olympic rugby—detailing the challenges she faced, the risks she took, and the triumphs that followed.
We explore how sports have shaped her life, the role of intuition in navigating big transitions, and the unique energy and dynamics of women’s sports. Steph also opens up about her shift into a career in occupational therapy and her passion for making a difference in the lives of others.
This episode is a thoughtful look at resilience, growth, and the communities that lift us. Don’t miss it!
11 Jul 2025
Welcome to 'It's Because of Sports"
“it’s because of sports” is a podcast exploring the journeys of athletes, coaches, and professional women, from competition to careers beyond the game. Where sport meets life, for athletes, fans, and anyone navigating what’s next.
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