Shows
When The Cleats Come OffAnna Laible: From softball player to sports journalist at the OlympicsThere aren’t a whole lot of female sports broadcasters out there, but sophomore at UNC Chapel Hill, Anna Laible, is in pursuit of changing the game. Learn her persistent and gritty approach to making her dreams become a reality by starting as a writer for Sports Illustrated Kids, hosting The National Dog Show - Junior and recently being invited to covering the most recent Olympics in Paris!Follow Anna on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/anna_laible?igsh=c3ptcWtrNHQ0cW1p Follow her Speak Up Sports Podcast - https://pod...
2024-09-0448 min
Speak Up SportsEpisode 97: Talking with Arkansas Gymnastics All-American, Reese DrotarToday on the podcast, I'm joined alongside bars All-American from the University of Arkansas, Reese Drotar. We will be discussing her journey to college gymnastics, being coached by Olympians, goals for her next college season, and more.
2024-07-0514 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 96: Learning from Soccer PxP Voice, Dean LinkeOn the Speak Up Sports Podcast today, I'm joined alongside play by play broadcaster and voice of North Carolina FC and NC Courage, Dean Linke. We will be talking about his journey from sales manager to broadcaster, his different roles in soccer including hosting a podcast and more.
2024-07-0232 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 95: Hearing from Athletics Multimedia Reporter, Jessica KleinschmidtThis week on the podcast, I am joined by multimedia journalist and pre and post game host for the Oakland Athletics, Jessica Kleinschmidt. We will be discussing how she changed career fields, working in different roles throughout her career, her current job, and so much more.
2024-07-0227 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 94: Chatting with 3x US Gymnastics National Team Member, Zoe MillerToday on the podcast, I'm joined by a 3x U.S. National gymnastics team member and incoming freshman on LSU's team, Zoe Miller. We will be talking about her elite career, training alongside some of the best gymnasts in the world, her next chapter in college gymnastics, and lots more.
2024-06-2218 minSpeak Up SportsTalking with MLB Network Radio Host and Baseball Analyst, Jensen LewisOn the podcast today, I am joined alongside MLB Network Radio Host, NCAA baseball analyst, and reporter for Bally Sports Cleveland, Jensen Lewis. We will be talking about his career in the sports media world, the surprise start for the Cleveland Guardians, and the CWS in Omaha.
2024-06-1729 minSpeak Up SportsSeason 7 Opener! Talking with 5x National Champion and Current UNC Field Hockey Head Coach Erin MatsonWelcome to Season 7 of the Speak Up Sports Podcast! Hosted by Anna Laible, writer for mlb.com and reporter for SI Kids for over 4 years, she is now a current student at UNC Chapel Hill.
To kick off season 7, Anna sits down and talks with the most decorated player in field hockey history and the current Head Coach of the 2023 National Champion UNC Tar Heels, Erin Matson. They will be talking about how Erin picked UNC, her illustrious playing career, becoming the youngest head coach in Division 1 history, and more.
2024-06-1420 minSpeak Up SportsHoliday Special! Talking with High Heat Co-Host, Alanna RizzoThis week on a special holiday episode of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined alongside MLB Network High Heat Co-Host, Alanna Rizzo! We will be talking about her journey in the sports broadcasting world, her prep for her High Heat shows, and lots more. Happy holidays!
2023-12-2132 minSpeak Up SportsSeason 6 Finale! Talking with UNC alum and ESPN College Football Sideline Reporter, Marilyn PayneOn the season 6 finale of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined alongside a UNC alumna and current sideline reporter for ESPN, Marilyn Payne. We will be talking about her journey from college student to her different roles post-college to her current sideline job and more.
2023-12-0529 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 89: Chatting with Professional Rock Climber, Natalia GrossmanOn this week’s episode, I am joined alongside Team USA professional rock climber, Natalia Grossman. We will be talking about how she got into rock climbing, what it is like to rock climb professionally, preparing for the Paris Olympics, and so much more.
2023-11-2823 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 88: Hearing about the journey of play-by-play college sports broadcaster, Courtney LyleThis week on the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined by college sports play-by-play broadcaster for ESPN and SEC Network, Courtney Lyle. We will be talking about her journey from college to broadcasting, juggling calling different sports in the same week, and lots more.
2023-11-1525 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 87: Talking with ACC Network Producer and UNC play-by-play broadcaster, Matt KrauseThis week on the podcast, I am joined by ACC Network UNC play-by-play broadcaster who does so many different sports including soccer, baseball, volleyball and women’s basketball and producer, Matt Krause. We will be talking about how he has learned to commentate on so many different sports and we will be breaking down some of UNC’s top programs.
2023-11-0730 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 86: Chatting with NWSL Athlete and Broadcaster, Brianna PintoOn this week's podcast episode, I am joined by 3x 1st team All-ACC selection for the UNC Tar Heels and NWSL athlete, Brianna Pinto. Brianna has been competing nationally and internationally since a very young age, winning the 2015 North Carolina Gatorade POY. We will be talking about her parents, who were also student athletes at UNC Chapel Hill, her collegiate career, being picked No. 3 in the NWSL draft, broadcasting college soccer and more.
2023-10-2433 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 85: Hearing from Professional Softball Player and Team USA Athlete, Amanda LorenzOn this week's episode, I am joined alongside a 4x All American outfielder, pro softball player, and 2022 Team USA World Games gold medalist, Amanda Lorenz. We will be talking about her collegiate journey, pro career so far, playing for Team USA soon, and much more.
2023-10-1726 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 84: Talking with Pitching Coach and ESPN Broadcaster, Amanda ScarboroughThis week on the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined by a former Texas A & M All-American pitcher and current pitching coach and softball broadcaster, Amanda Scarborough We will be talking about her pitching career, transition to calling games, coaching during the pandemic, and so much more.
2023-10-1124 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 83: Chatting with Professional Volleyball Athlete, Ali BastianelliThis week on the podcast, I am joined with professional volleyball player, Ali Bastianelli. We will be talking about her career at Illinois, upcoming season with Athletes Unlimited, new pro league, and lots more.
2023-10-0430 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 82: Hearing from USA Today Baseball Insider, Bob NightengaleOn this week's podcast episode, I am joined with USA Today MLB Insider and columnist, Bob Nightengale. We will be discussing his career in the sports industry, being a chairman for a BBWAA chapter, predictions for October baseball, and more!
2023-09-2624 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 81: Talking with WNBA Analyst, LaChina RobinsonOn this week's episode, I am joined with WNBA analyst, LaChina Robinson! We will be chatting about all things WNBA including the growth of the league, predictions for the playoffs, and much more!
2023-09-1930 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 80: Learning from MLB Reporter and MLB Central's Co-Host, Lauren ShehadiThis week on the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined by MLB reporter and the co-host of MLB Central, Lauren Shehadi. We will be talking about how Lauren became interested in sports journalism, what it is liked hosting a show every weekday, and so much more!
2023-09-1217 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 79: Talking with National Aviation Hall of Fame Inductee, Patty WagstaffThis week on the podcast, I am joined with 3x US National Aerobatic Champion, 6x US Aerobatic team member, and National Aviation HOF member, Patty Wagstaff. We will be talking about how she became a pilot, journey to breaking barriers, being a part of the US Aerobatic team, and lots more!
2023-09-0629 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 78: Chatting with UNC Women's Tennis National Champion, Carson TanguiligOn this week's podcast episode, I am joined with UNC Women’s Tennis National Champion, Carson Tanguilig. Since Carson won the doubles national title in addition to the team national championship with her teammate, Fiona Crawley, they earned a bid into the US Open and have their first round matchup today. We will be talking about how she found her love for tennis, winning the outdoor national title with UNC, and more.
2023-08-3124 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 77: Hearing from Athletes Unlimited Athlete and Olympic Silver Medalist, Bubba NicklesThis week on the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am talking with Olympian, All American, and professional athlete, Bubba Nickles. We will be talking about how her nickname came to be, her Tokyo Olympic experience, professional career at Athletes Unlimited and in Japan, and more!
2023-08-2232 minSpeak Up SportsSeason 6 Premiere! Talking with 2x Olympic Medalist and Hall of Fame Softball Pitcher, Jennie FinchWelcome to Season 6 of the Speak Up Sports Podcast! On this week's premiere episode, Anna Laible is joined with legendary softball pitcher, Jennie Finch. Jennie was an All American, National Player of the Year, and National Champion at the University of Arizona. She is also an Olympic Gold Medalist, and USA Softball Hall of Fame Inductee amongst her many career accomplishments. Today, we will be talking about how she became a pitcher, her successful playing career, work as an MLB ambassador, and so much more!
2023-08-1428 minSpeak Up SportsSeason 5 Finale: Talking with MLB Statistician, Sarah LangsOn the season 5 finale of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with an amazing statistician for mlb.com and MLB Network, Sarah Langs. We will be talking about how she got into this career field, how she has overcome obstacles, and much more!
2023-04-1724 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 74: Chatting with Orioles Broadcaster, Melanie NewmanThis week on the podcast, I am joined with a broadcaster for the Orioles and MLB Network, Melanie Newman. We will be discussing her journey into this career field, what her preparation for games look like, and lots more!
2023-04-1127 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 73: Talking with Duke Athletic Director, Nina KingOn this week’s podcast episode, I am joined with Vice President, Athletic Director, and Professor at Duke University, Nina King. We will be talking about how she got into this position, her current role at her university, and more!
2023-04-0427 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 72: 2023 World Baseball Classic EditionThis week on the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am bringing together all of the interviews and recaps from the World Baseball Classic semifinal games and the championship game!! You will hear from current and past players, present and former WBC managers, and much more!! This episode features some of the superstars from this year's WBC like Trea Turner, Lars Nootbaar, and so many more!!
2023-03-2739 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 71: Chatting with NBA Reporter, Kendra AndrewsOn this week's episode of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with NBA Reporter for ESPN, Kendra Andrews. We will be talking about how she first got involved reporting for ESPN, what it is like working alongside her sister, and more!
2023-03-2025 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 70: Talking with New York Mets Manager, Buck ShowalterThis week on the podcast, I am joined with 2022 Manager of the Year from the New York Mets, Buck Showalter. We will be talking about why Buck came back to manage, the off-season additions for his team, and lots more.
2023-03-1312 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 69: Talking with MLB Network Host, Lauren GardnerOn this week's podcast episode, I am joined with the MLB Network Host of "Off Base" and Reporter, Lauren Gardner! We will be talking about how she first started with MLB Network, hosting her own show, covering MLB playoff games, and so much more.
2023-03-0623 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 68: Hearing about the Story of Beach Volleyball National Champion, Julia ScolesThis week on the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with 2x Women's Beach Volleyball National Champion at USC, Julia Scoles. We will be talking about Julia’s unique journey from indoor to beach volleyball, her future career goals, and much more!
2023-02-2729 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 67: Talking with ESPN Reporter, Coley HarveyOn this week's episode of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with ESPN sideline reporter and SportsCenter reporter, Coley Harvey. Coley was at the heart of the Damar Hamlin coverage earlier this year. Today, we will be talking about how he first started with ESPN, his experience covering the Damar Hamlin story, and more!
2023-02-2135 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 66: Discussing Baseball with ESPN Analyst, Buster OlneyThis week on the podcast, I am joined with journalist and analyst for ESPN's Sunday Night Baseball team, Buster Olney. As a part of ESPN for the last two decades, Buster is a mainstay in baseball coverage across many different platforms. Today, we will be talking about juggling all of his different roles at ESPN and talking about future storylines for the 2023 season.
2023-02-1328 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 65: Talking with 29x Paralympic Medalist, Jessica LongOn this week's podcast episode, I am joined with 29x Paralympic Medalist (16x Gold Medalist) swimmer, Jessica Long. I enjoyed sharing her story on SI Kids before the Tokyo Games and her story continues to inspire me. Today, we will be talking about how she overcame being an amputee and orphan, her journey into swimming, her career as an elite athlete, and so much more!
2023-02-0633 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 64: Speaking with Radio Hall of Famer, Suzyn WaldmanThis week on the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with 2022 Radio Hall of Fame Inductee, Suzyn Waldman. Suzyn became the first woman to do play-by-play on a nationally televised MLB game and among her many career accomplishments was also the first full-time female color commentator for an MLB club (New York Yankees). Today, we will be talking about how she got into broadcasting, overcomes criticism from others, and lots more!
2023-01-3033 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 63: Talking with Basketball Hall of Famer, Tamika CatchingsOn this week's episode of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with Women's Basketball Hall of Fame Inductee, Tamika Catchings. Tamika is a collegiate National Champion at Tennessee, 2012 WNBA Champion with the Indiana Fever, and 4x Olympic Gold Medalist for Team USA. Today, we will be talking about talking about her Hall of Fame basketball career, Tamika's and her sister’s Catch the Stars Foundation, and so much more!
2023-01-2325 minSpeak Up SportsSeason 5 Premiere! Dusty's back - this time as a World Series Champion ManagerWelcome to Season 5 of the Speak Up Sports Podcast! Happy New Year to everyone! To start off this season, Dusty Baker is back to talk with Anna Laible after winning his 1st World Series title as a manager! Dusty is a 3x Manager of the Year, 9th all time on the regular season managerial wins list (2,093), and one of 7 managers to win the World Series as both a player and a manager. Today, we will be talking about him reaching the 2,000 career regular season wins milestone, winning the Fall Classic, and planning for the upcoming 2023 season.
2023-01-1628 minSpeak Up SportsSpecial Episode! Talking with Big Ten Commissioner, Kevin WarrenOn this week's special episode of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with the 1st African American Commissioner in any American student-sports conference and current Big Ten Commissioner, Kevin Warren. We will be talking about his career that led him into this position, groundbreaking deals for the Big Ten, the Big Ten Foundation, and more!
2022-10-2927 minSpeak Up SportsSeason 4 Finale! Talking with Olympic Sports Columnist, Christine BrennanOn the Season 4 finale of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with professional sports columnist, seven time author, and Olympic journalist extraordinaire, Christine Brennan. Christine has covered over a dozen Olympic Games throughout her prestigious writing career. We will be talking about how she got into this field, how she has juggled being a female trailblazer, her favorite Olympic experiences, and much more!!
2022-10-1041 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 59: Talking with Tampa Tarpons Manager, Rachel BalkovecOn this week's episode, I am joined with the first female manager in professional affiliated baseball history, Rachel Balkovec. Her road to managing has been anything but easy! Today, we will be discussing Rachel’s career journey, leadership by example, her future goals, and so much more!
2022-10-0327 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 58: Hearing about the Journey of Renowned MLB Writer and Reporter, Ken RosenthalThis week on the podcast, I am joined with Emmy award winner, Senior writer for The Athletic, and MLB FOX Reporter, Ken Rosenthal. We will be talking about how Ken got into this industry, his signature bow tie, how he juggles writing and reporting, his storylines for this postseason, and more!
2022-09-2633 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 57: Talking with Oklahoma's 2x National Champion Softball Pitcher, Nicole MayThis week on the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with 2x National Champion softball pitcher for the Oklahoma Sooners, Nicole May. Today, we will be talking about how she became a pitcher, what the incredible moments of winning two titles were, and lots more!
2022-09-1921 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 56: Talking with President of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, Josh RawitchOn this week's podcast episode, I am joined with the President of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum, Josh Rawitch. After working in baseball for multiple decades, Josh became the HOF President last fall. Today, we will be discussing how Josh got into baseball, his career journey, his work at the Hall of Fame, and much more!
2022-09-1225 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 55: Chatting with Title IX Trailblazer, Noor AbukaramThis week on the podcast, I am joined with Title IX trailblazer and founder of "Let Noor Run," Noor Abukaram. Noor's life changed after one race when she was disqualified for wearing a hijab. Since then, she has impacted high school sports by testifying in court to create a bill so that this kind of racial inequality would never happen again! Her story was featured in ESPN's fifty/50 shorts. Today, we will be talking about her sports journey, Senate Bill 288, and so much more!
2022-09-0535 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 54: Talking with Volleyball Olympian and Sportscaster, Ci MichelOn this week's episode, I am joined with volleyball Olympian and sports commentator, Ci Michel. Ci competed for Great Britain in the 2012 London Olympics, and is now a part of the broadcast team at Athletes Unlimited. We will be talking about her athletic journey, career after playing, and more!
2022-08-3029 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 53: Hearing about the Creation of Athletes Unlimited with Co-Founder, Jon PatricofThis week on the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with the Co-Founder of Athletes Unlimited, Jon Patricof. Athletes Unlimited is a unique network of professional women's sports leagues, including softball, lacrosse, volleyball, and basketball. Today, we will be talking about how AU came to be, the point system, athlete resources, and so much more!
2022-08-2323 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 52: Talking with ESPN Senior NFL Insider, Adam SchefterThis week on the podcast, I am joined with ESPN Senior NFL Insider, Adam Schefter. Adam has been working with ESPN since 2009, and oftentimes, breaks the news about anything in the NFL. Adam and I will be talking about his career, this NFL offseason, his predictions for the 2022 season, and much more!
2022-08-1612 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 51: Hearing from Softball National Champion, Hope TrautweinOn this week's podcast episode, I am joined with former Oklahoma Sooners softball pitcher and National Champion, Hope Trautwein. Hope transferred to OU after playing for UNT, and recently finished her first professional season with WPF (Women's Professional Fastpitch). Today, we will be talking about her softball journey, collegiate career, and lots more!
2022-08-0829 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 50: Talking with Former NFL Player and TV Host, Akbar GbajabiamilaThis week on the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with former NFL player and co-host of American Ninja Warrior, Akbar Gbajabiamila. We will be talking about his football career, journey into commentating, Season 14 of ANW, and so much more!
2022-08-0133 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 49: 2022 MLB Hall of Fame Induction CeremonyOn this week's special episode of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I will be sharing interview highlights that I had from covering this year's MLB Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Cooperstown, NY. From talking with 2022 Hall of Fame Inductees Tony Oliva and Jim Kaat to speaking with Negro Leagues Baseball Museum President, Bob Kendrick, everything about covering this year's ceremony was exciting! Tune in to hear my conversations with these baseball game-changers as they etched their names in baseball's greatest hall this past weekend.
2022-07-2509 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 48: Learning about the Story of 3x All American Pitcher, Georgina CorrickThis week on the podcast, I am joined with 3x All American, 4x AAC Pitcher of Year, and NFCA 2022 Pitcher of the Year, Georgina Corrick. A USF alum, Georgina not only broke dozens of records in college, but she just recently finished her first professional softball season with AUX. Today, we will be talking about why she chose USF, her collegiate career, her first professional softball experience, and more!
2022-07-1834 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 47: Talking with Former Grant High School Softball Players on Title IX IssueOn this week's podcast episode, I am not only joined with one guest, but with three! Elizabeth Kollrack, Madyson Roach, and Olivia Dunn, all former high school softball players, together with their coach sued Grant High School, when they were not given a new softball field like they had been promised. They were not able to play home games because the pitcher’s mound didn’t line up with home plate. You can check out Part 4 of ESPN’s 37 Words that features their story! Today, I will be talking with Elisabeth, Olivia, and Maddie about their lawsuit journey, the buildi...
2022-07-1125 min
Speak Up SportsKicking Off Season 4! Talking with 2x Track and Field Olympic Medalist, Kendall EllisWelcome to Season 4 of the Speak Up Sports Podcast! Thank you to everyone who has listened to the first three seasons! I can't wait for you all to hear the guests on this season. Today, I am talking with 2x Olympic Track and Field Medalist, Kendall Ellis. Kendall was a 4x Florida state high school champion in track and former USC athlete. We will be talking about how she got into running, her first Olympics experience, goals for the future, and much more!
2022-07-0520 minSpeak Up SportsSeason 3 Finale! Hearing from Softball Olympian and ESPN Broadcaster, Danielle LawrieOn the Season 3 finale of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with softball Olympic bronze medalist and ESPN broadcaster, Danielle Lawrie. A softball pitcher from the University of Washington, Danielle helped lead Team Canada to a bronze medal in the Tokyo Olympics. Today, we are going to be talking about how she got into pitching, her Olympic experiences, her commentating career, and so much more!
2022-04-1245 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 44: Talking with Olympic Gold Medalist, Ashley CaldwellOn this week's episode, I am joined with Ashley Caldwell, a 4x Olympian who recently competed in the Beijing Olympics. She not only is the only female to land "The Daddy" (quadruple-twisting triple back flip), but she also won Olympic Gold in the first ever mixed gender team Aerials event at the most recent Winter Games. Today, we will be talking about how she got interested in freestyle skiing, her Olympic experiences, and lots more!
2022-04-0520 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 43: Learning about the Journey of Washington Commanders Assistant Running Backs Coach, Jennifer KingThis week on the podcast, I am joined with Jennifer King, the first African American woman to be a full time coach in the NFL. She is currently the running backs' assistant coach for the Washington Commanders. Today, we will be talking about how she got into coaching, her journey into the NFL, and much more!
2022-03-2821 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 42: Talking with NFL official, Sarah ThomasOn this week's podcast episode, Anna is joined with the first full time female official in NFL history, Sarah Thomas. She made HERSTORY when she became the first woman to officiate in Super Bowl LV. Today, we will be talking about her journey into officiating, her experience as a Super Bowl referee, and so much more!
2022-03-2130 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 41: Hearing about the story of 2x Softball Olympic Medalist, Natasha WatleyThis week on the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with 2x softball Olympic medalist, Natasha Watley. A 4x All-American, 5x Japan softball league champion, 2003 NCAA National Champion, and 3x NPF champion, Natasha has done it all! She was a 2014 UCLA Athletics Hall of Fame Inductee, and not only serves as an MLB ambassador, but also has her own foundation, the Natasha Watley Foundation. Today, we will be talking about the softball skills she learned, being an MLB ambassador, her foundation, and lots more!
2022-03-1435 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 40: Talking with Hall of Fame Softball Coach, Sue EnquistOn this week's episode, I am joined with 11x National Champion and Hall of Fame softball coach, Sue Enquist. She was UCLA softball's first All-American, and she is one of only two former softball players to win a National Championship as both a player and a coach. Today, we will be talking about her journey from player to coach, lessons she taught her players, her Hall of Fame career, and so much more!
2022-03-0935 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 40: Talking with Hall of Fame Softball Coach, Sue EnquistOn this week's episode, I am joined with 11x National Champion and Hall of Fame softball coach, Sue Enquist. She was UCLA softball's first All-American, and she is one of only two former softball players to win a National Championship as both a player and a coach. Today, we will be talking about her journey from player to coach, lessons she taught her players, her Hall of Fame career, and so much more!
2022-03-0736 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 39: Learning about the journey of Marlins GM, Kim NgThis week on the podcast, I am joined with Kim Ng, the General Manager of the Miami Marlins. After three decades of experience in baseball, Kim made history when she was hired in November of 2020 as the first woman to ever be the GM of a major North American men's professional sports team! Today, we will be talking about how she got into baseball, what it's like being in baseball's front office, her historic hiring, and much more!
2022-02-2827 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 38: Hearing from 2x Softball Olympic Pitcher, Monica AbbottOn this week's podcast episode, I am joined with 2x Softball Olympic Medalist, Monica Abbott. A 3x SEC Pitcher of the Year for Tennessee and 4x First Team Louisville Slugger, Abbott has thrown 6 perfect games and 23 no-hitters among her many accomplishments in college. Now, she has been a professional softball player for many years, competing in Japan and for Team U.S.A. Today, we will be talking about her development as a pitcher, her collegiate career, her Olympic experiences, and more!
2022-02-2127 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 37: Talking with Paralympian, Dani AravichThis week on the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined by Summer and soon to be Winter Paralympian, Dani Aravich. Dani has had to overcome great obstacles since she was born without her left hand and forearm. Today, we will be talking about how Dani has overcome adversity, how she got into Paralympic sports, and so much more! Don't forget to watch Dani compete in the Beijing Paralympics next month starting on March 4th on Peacock!
2022-02-1426 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 36: Learning about the Journey of Softball Olympian, Ali AguilarOn this week's episode of the podcast, Anna is joined with softball Olympic Silver Medalist, Ali Aguilar. A former University of Washington softball player, she earned NFCA Second & Third team All-American honors in college. Now, she is an infielder for Team U.S.A. Today, we will be talking about what made her get into softball, how she trained during COVID, her Tokyo Olympic experience, and more!
2022-02-0731 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 35: Learning about Sports PR from ESPN Senior Director of Communications, Ben CafardoThis week on the podcast, I am joined by ESPN Senior Director of Communications, Ben Cafardo. He has been in the sports PR world for over a decade, and knows the ins and outs of it. Today, we will be talking about sports in his family, his journey on the PR side of professional sports, and much more!
2022-01-3133 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 34: Talking with ESPN Reporter, Jalyn JohnsonThis week on the Speak Up Sports Podcast, host Anna Laible is joined with ESPN Reporter, Jalyn Johnson. Not only did Jalyn earn her Master's Degree in 2021, but she started working for ESPN only a few weeks after graduating! She reported on both the Women's College World Series and the college football season. Today, we are talking about Jalyn's journey into sports reporting, her experiences at ESPN so far, and so much more!
2022-01-2438 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 33: Talking with Co-Host of American Ninja Warrior, Matt IsemanOn this week's episode of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, Anna is joined with Matt Iseman, who is a comedian, Olympic commentator, and co-host of the 4x Emmy nominated TV show, American Ninja Warrior. We will be talking about how he went from becoming a physician (yes, he was a Dr!) to a comedian to TV show host to Olympic commentator and so much more!!
2022-01-1834 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 32: Learning about the Journey of 2x Olympic Medalist, Laurie HernandezThis week on the podcast, I am joined with 2x gymnastics Olympic Medalist, Laurie Hernandez. Laurie earned Team Gold and an individual Silver Medal on the balance beam at the 2016 Rio Olympics. Now, she has transitioned into a variety of different sports commentating roles, including commentating at the most recent Olympic Games in Tokyo. Today, we are talking about her gymnastics career journey, how she overcame adversity, and her experiences in the sports commentating world. Can't wait for you to listen!
2022-01-1041 minSpeak Up SportsSeason 3 Premiere! Talking with My Friend and Broadcasting Legend, Mary CarilloWelcome to Season 3 of the Speak Up Sports Podcast! Happy New Year! To kick off this season, host Anna Laible is joined with Sports Broadcasting Hall of Famer, Mary Carillo. Mary is a former professional tennis player who has been in the sports broadcasting world for over 4 decades. After covering 15 Olympics, she can call anything and everything from winter sports to tennis to dog shows. I had the pleasure of meeting and learning from her when I was filming the National Dog Show Jr! Today, we will be talking about how she got into playing tennis, the way she...
2022-01-0340 minSpeak Up SportsSeason 2 Finale! Learning about the Journey of 3x Olympic Softball Medalist, Cat OstermanOn the Season 2 finale of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with 3x Olympic Medalist, Cat Osterman. Cat, a lefty pitcher, was a 4x NFCA All-American, 4x Big 12 Pitcher of the Year, and 3x National Player of the Year in her collegiate career as a Texas Longhorn. She retired in 2015, but then decided to come out of retirement to compete in the Tokyo Olympics in 2021. Now that she is retired for the last and final time, she is helping coach the next generation of softball players as the Director of Softball at RBI Austin, a non-profit who...
2021-11-0336 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 29: Talking with Olympic Softball Silver Medalist, Delaney SpauldingOn this week's episode of the podcast, I am joined with Team USA's softball shortstop, Delaney Spaulding. Delaney was an All-PAC softball player at UCLA, a two time World Cup Medalist, and an Olympic Silver Medalist. We will be talking about how she got into sports as a kid, what it was like when she suffered an injury close to the Olympics, and her entire Olympic experience in Tokyo.
2021-10-2636 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 28: Talking with Colorado Rockies Reporter, Jenny CavnarThis week on the podcast, I am joined with MLB reporter, Jenny Cavnar. Jenny is a reporter for the Rockies, who covered the All Star Game in Denver and the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Cooperstown, NY this season. We will be talking about how she got interested in sports reporting, how she juggled her crazy MLB season that included having a baby, and so much more!
2021-10-1137 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 27: Learning about the Journey of MLB's First Ever Full-time Female Coach, Alyssa NakkenOn this episode of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with Alyssa Nakken, who became the first full-time female coach in the MLB last year for the San Francisco Giants. She is a trailblazer, and will be coaching the National League #1 seed Giants this postseason to make even more history! We will be talking about her journey from collegiate softball player to Major League Coach, what her first full MLB season was like, and what the strengths of her team are as she heads into her first postseason as a coach.
2021-10-0621 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 26: Talking with Professional Baseball Coach, Madison FemiaThis week, I am joined alongside 19 year-old professional baseball coach, Madison Femia. Madison is currently working on earning her Associate's Degree while also coaching the Joliet Slammers. She was the youngest female to be a part of MLB's "Take the Field program" this past December. We talk about what it was like playing baseball with the boys growing up, her career goals, and much more!
2021-09-2729 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 25: MLB Hall of Fame Induction CeremonyOn this special episode of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I will be sharing highlights from interviews that I had covering my first sporting event for the podcast. From talking with 2020 Hall of Fame inductees Derek Jeter and Larry Walker to talking with Jeter's former teammate Jorge Posada and the chairman of the Players Association, Tony Clark - everything about covering the Hall of Fame Induction Ceremony in Cooperstown, NY was incredible! Tune in today to hear my conversations with all of these amazing individuals on their playing careers, what it was like finding out that they had been...
2021-09-1308 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 24: Chatting with Vanderbilt Baseball Player, Kenny MalloryOn this episode of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with freshman Vanderbilt baseball player, Kenny Mallory. Kenny, one of the top baseball players in the Class of 2025, is continuing his baseball dream by starting his collegiate career at Vanderbilt. We will be talking about how he developed a passion for sports as a young kid, what its been like playing with other top athletes, and what he is looking forward to about playing D1 baseball.
2021-09-0716 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 23: Talking with Ella Bruning, the LLWS' 20th girlOn the Speak Up Sports Podcast this week, I am talking with Ella Bruning, who just finished competing in Williamsport for the Little League World Series. She starred there with her great defensive catching skills, after become only the 20th girl to ever play in the world's biggest baseball tournament for kids! Today, we will be talking about how she got into sports, what she enjoys most about catching, and what some of her favorite memories are from her trip to Williamsport.
2021-08-3116 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 22: Learning about the Journey of ESPN Broadcaster, Karl RavechThis week, I am joined with Karl Ravech, a broadcaster who covers almost every major baseball event - from regular season games to MLB playoffs and the Little League World Series to the College World Series. Currently, he is in Williamsport calling multiple Little League games daily. Today, we will be talking about how he got into journalism and reporting, what it has been like calling games in the MLB, and how he juggles his busy schedule of covering so many different baseball events.
2021-08-2329 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 21: Talking with ESPN side-line reporter, Cassidy HubbarthOn the Speak Up Sports Podcast this week, I am talking with ESPN side-line reporter and host of the NBA pre-game TV show, "Hoopstreams," Cassidy Hubbarth. Cassidy is a trailblazing female basketball reporter in the sports media world. We will be talking about her journey into sports, how she became interested in reporting, and what her experiences have been like pre-COVID and during COVID with interviews and reporting.
2021-08-1636 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 20: Learning from my Softball Role Model, Aliyah AndrewsThis week on the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am talking with former LSU outfielder, Aliyah Andrews. While Aliyah earned some incredible honors like 2021 First Team All-SEC, 2021 SEC All-Defensive Team, NCAA Female Athlete Finalist, she also racked up a career .353 batting average and holds the second all time record in stolen bases at LSU with 145. Not only is she an incredible athlete, but she is also known for her kindness off the field. Today, we will be talking about her journey in sports, how she got the nickname "Air Aliyah," and what she is doing to prepare for the...
2021-08-0920 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 19: Talking with Former Pro Basketball Player, Morgan JonesOn this episode of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, I am joined with former collegiate and professional women's basketball player, Morgan Jones. Morgan was a standout in high school, played at Northwestern and Florida State, and even played a little pro ball. Now she started her own business called "Athletes To Visionaries" with the goal to help female athletes find their voice and passion. Today, we will be talking about her journey as an athlete, how she is now helping other female athletes, and her future goals.
2021-08-0318 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 18: Learning about the Journey of Former Collegiate Softball Player, Kendall BurtonOn the Speak Up Sports Podcast this week, I am joined with former softball player from the University of Georgia, Kendall Burton. Kendall has had to not only overcome injuries from softball, but she has had over 20 surgeries in her life since being born with cleft lip and palate. Today, we will be talking about how she has overcome all of her health issues, and so much more, to still excel in life! Stay tuned!
2021-07-2633 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 17: Talking with Little League President, Steve KeenerThis week, I am talking with the Little League International President, CEO, and Commissioner, Steve Keener. The Little League World Series is an annual event every year in Williamsport, PA where the top 8 teams across the world come to compete against one another. Sadly, due to COVID, the tournament will only be between U.S. teams in August. Today, I will be talking about how the MLB Little League Classic Game came to be, how Little League has had to make changes with the pandemic, and what the LLWS Commissioner hopes to see in the future for Little League...
2021-07-1918 minSpeak Up SportsSeason 2 Kick off! Talking with MLB Commissioner, Mr. ManfredWelcome to Season 2 of the Speak Up Sports Podcast! Thank you to everyone who came on as a guest for Season 1, and to all of the listeners. I am thrilled to be starting a new season that is going to be filled with incredible guests. Today, I am joined with Major League Baseball Commissioner, Mr. Manfred. I first met him at the Little League World Series in 2019, and I am excited that he wants to continue bringing more youth, like myself, into the sports of baseball and softball. I will be talking with him about his journey so far...
2021-07-1212 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 15: Diving into the journey of journalist and NBA host, Rachel NicholsOn the Season 1 finale of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, Anna is joined with amazing journalist, side-line reporter, and host of the NBA TV show "The Jump" - Rachel Nichols! Rachel has been a part of all different sports - from reporting for Sports Center and the NFL on Monday and Sunday night football games, to working for TNT, CNN, and ESPN. She recently was nominated as an outstanding sports personality and studio host as the only female for a Sports Emmy! Today, we will be talking about how she became interested in writing and reporting about sports, and w...
2021-06-0131 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 14: Talking with former D1 softball player and co-founder of The Packaged Deal, Morgan StuartGet ready to hear some softball talk! Today, Anna is joined with former University of Washington softball player, Morgan Stuart. Morgan was part of the Washington Championship team in 2009, and she earned Women's College World Series honors for having a .476 batting average during their title run in Oklahoma City. Also, she helped start The Packaged Deal, which includes a group of former softball players who hold elite camps and clinics throughout the country. Today, we will be talking about how she got into sports, and then how she is helping the next generation of girls improve their defense.
2021-05-2429 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 13: Part 2 with MLB Reporter and Writer, Jon MorosiToday, we are back with part two of the interview with Jon Morosi. Anna had so much fun talking with him that it had to be broken into two different episodes! On this episode, they will be talking about how he got involved with MLB Network, and what some of his fun things to do with his family are.
2021-05-1721 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 12: Part 1 with MLB Reporter and Writer, Jon MorosiThis week's podcast episode will be the first of two featuring MLB Network reporter, Jon Morosi. Jon is a former Harvard alum. He now is a writer in the baseball world. He reports for MLB, Fox, and MLB Network. One of his favorite events to cover is the WBC (World Baseball Classic), since he communicates with athletes in their native languages - both English and Spanish. Today, Anna will be diving into Morosi's journey as an athlete, father, and reporter. Make sure to tune in to hear the end of our conversation next week!
2021-05-1134 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 11: Chatting with my friend and fellow Sports Illustrated Kids writer, Ayesha BadiolaOn this episode of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, Anna is joined with SI Kids writer, Ayesha Badiola. Ayesha and Anna are both Kid Reporters on the SI Kids 2019 - 2020 team and have become friends through texting and calling, even though they live in different countries. Ayesha is a aspiring side-line reporter, and she hopes to report for the Toronto Raptors one day. Today, we will be talking about where her love of sports came from and why she decided to start writing at a young age.
2021-05-0323 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 10: Talking with IBWAA Co-Director, Dan EpsteinToday, Anna is joined with IBWAA (Internet Baseball Writers Association of America) Co-Director, Dan Epstein. Dan is a baseball writer for Baseball Prospectus and Off the Bench Baseball. As a new IBWAA member herself, Anna will be talking with him about his sports writing journey and his involvement with the IBWAA.
2021-04-2628 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 9: Learning from Former Pro Softball Player, Ashley BurkhardtThis week's podcast episode will be featuring 3-time Academic All-Big Ten honoree and former pro softball player, Ashley Burkhardt. Ashley had a .335 career D1 hitting average. She holds the runs and stolen bases records at Purdue. As a 1st baseman, Ashley was selected for the 1st team All-Midwest in 2015. After playing for Purdue, Ashley continued her softball career at the professional level. Now, she owns her own business called Ashley B Training. She is helping girls near and far improve as athletes, both mentally and physically. Today, we will be diving into her softball career and how the lessons she...
2021-04-1938 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 8: Konnor McClain Speaks Up about Elite GymnasticsThis week's podcast episode is featuring Olympic gymnast hopeful, Konnor McClain. Konnor is a 3x National Team Member, 2019 U.S. Classic Junior All-Around Champion, and silver medalist at the U.S. National Championships in 2019. As a 16 year old, Konnor became eligible for this summer's Tokyo Olympic Games when they were postponed due to COVID. Anna will be talking with her about what it is like being an elite gymnast, how she juggles school amidst her training, and what her future goals are if she qualifies for the upcoming Olympics.
2021-04-1222 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 7: Talking with Mental Game Coach, Paige TonzOn this episode of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, Anna is joined along with mental game coach, Paige Tonz. Paige is a former Division 1 athlete, Academic All-American, and a Big Ten Distinguished Scholar. Now, Paige is helping girls all across the country work on their mental game for both sports, but also for school, relationships, and more throughout their lives. Join us today as we discuss Paige's athletic journey, and what inspired her to coach.
2021-04-0537 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 6: A look into the life of MLB agent, Rachel LubaToday, Anna is joined with one of her role models, Rachel Luba. Rachel is a former collegiate gymnast who turned to boxing at UCLA. After she found her passion in sports, she decided to become an MLB player agent, and started her own agency, Luba Sports in 2019. Not only is Rachel one of the few female agents in the sports industry, she just recently signed her agent Trevor Bauer to a record breaking 3 year, 112 million dollar contract. Anna will be talking with Rachel about what made her decide to become a sports agent and what it takes to be...
2021-03-2929 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 5: Learning about hockey with women's hockey Olympian, AJ MleczkoThis week's podcast is featuring amazing women's hockey legend, AJ Mleczko. AJ is a Harvard alum, who played at the 1st ever women's hockey Olympics in 1998 representing USA. Over her career, she had many incredible accomplishments and honors, including being inducted to multiple different Hall of Fames. Anna will be talking with AJ about her journey as a hockey athlete, what it has been like breaking into a broadcasting career field without many women, and how she has seen the hockey sport grow over the years.
2021-03-2243 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 4: Talking with Washington Nationals Minority Owner, Paxton BakerOn this week's episode of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, Paxton Baker joins Anna to talk about how his music career took him into the sports industry as he is now an owner of a MLB team. Paxton Baker is a businessman, entrepreneur, previous producer of multiple Grammy nominated albums, and the current Chairman of the Congressional Award. Anna will be talking more about his career and his many more amazing accomplishments! Mr. Baker will share that after the Nationals won the World Series in 2019, they are hoping to chase and win another Championship soon!
2021-03-1530 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 3: Learning valuable lessons from Julie FoudyThis week, Anna is joined with soccer legend, Julie Foudy. Julie is a 2x Women's World Cup Champion, 3-time Olympic Medalist, a Hall of Fame Soccer player, an author, and so many more amazing things! Julie runs her own summer camp for young girls called the Julie Foudy Sports Leadership Academy and she is helping the next generation of females in sports become leaders. She is a reporter for ESPN and she is voice for many of the soccer game telecasts. We will be talking about her experiences as an elite athlete, her reporting journey, and so much more!
2021-03-0839 minSpeak Up SportsEpsiode 2: Talking with my role model, Jessica MendozaOn this episode of the Speak Up Sports Podcast, Anna Laible is joined with her role model, the amazing Jessica Mendoza. Jessica is a 4-time First Team All-American, a 2-time Olympic Medalist, a First Team Academic All-American in 2002, a previous Stanford Female Athlete of the Year, and a 2019 National Softball Hall of Fame inductee! She is now in the broadcasting world, and she was the 1st female to broadcast national MLB games, and last year, she became the 1st woman to broadcast World Series games. Today, she will be virtually joining Anna as she talks about her softball journey and...
2021-03-0114 minSpeak Up SportsEpisode 1: Catching up with Dusty BakerOn the first episode of the Speak Up Sports podcast, Anna Laible sits down over zoom to talk with Houston Astros Manager, Dusty Baker. Dusty Baker is a 2x Sliver Slugger, 2x All-Star, Gold Glove winner, 3x Manager of the Year, and he is the winningest manager without a World Series Trophy with a career 1,892 wins. Dusty Baker talks about starting his playing career in the majors at only 19 years old, and about his mentor and long-time best friend, Hank Aaron.
2021-03-0114 minSpeak Up SportsTrailerWelcome to the Speak Up Sports podcast! Stay tuned for the first episode dropping next Monday, March 1st!
2021-02-2300 min