Shows
Butterfly RoadGuest Appearance: Ava Cook In this episode, we sit down with Chicago Stars forward Ava Cook to hear the remarkable story of her journey through the NWSL. From her beginnings at a Division II university to transferring to Division I and eventually earning her spot with the Stars, Ava takes us through the pivotal moments that shaped her path. She reflects on the thrill of being drafted, the heartbreak of a season-ending ACL tear in 2024, and the long, grueling road to recovery.Ava speaks candidly about the mental and emotional challenges she faced during rehab, the support systems that helped her...
2025-06-101h 00Butterfly RoadDoing Your BestWe’re back! After a little break for the NWSL season, we’re refreshed and ready to dive into a topic that’s been a long time coming—doing your best. What does it actually mean to give your best, and how can you shift your mindset when your "best" looks different from day to day? If you've been feeling like your best hasn't been enough lately, we've got you covered! Tune in and let us remind you—you’re doing better than you think!
2024-11-2830 minButterfly RoadPost-Vacation BluesPicture this: You've been counting down the days to your vacation, or maybe it's that much-needed semester break, or you've finally reached the off-season. You've worked your tail off to get here, and now you can't wait to kick back and enjoy some well-deserved downtime. But as the return date approaches, a sense of dread starts creeping in. Suddenly, you're bombarded with questions: Am I ready to jump back into the grind? Did I make the most of my time off? And what's waiting for me when I get back? You're caught in this transition where you can't shake...
2024-04-0428 minButterfly RoadEmbracing PressureIt’s a Christmas miracle! We’re back to discuss pressure, the different kinds, and how to handle them!While we acknowledge pressure is a privilege, we know it can be daunting and overwhelming. If you’re not prepared to embrace your own pressures, you may not reap as many benefits from those experiences. Tune in to hear about the pressures we face on and off the field and the tricks we use to alleviate them.
2023-12-2039 minButterfly RoadGuest Appearance: Monica FloresThis week we sit down with Monica Flores. Monica is an integrative health practitioner who looks to enhance the lives of others through holistic measures. Recently retired from professional soccer, Monica is now continuing her journey to change how people understand the connection between diet and mental health.During this episode, we discuss the mind-gut connection and how important a healthy diet is to mental health. Flores works with numerous athletes and attempts to shift their focus from societal expectations of appearance to fuel and performance through small changes. Flores also dotes on how the way one...
2023-07-1254 minButterfly RoadConfidence & Self-WorthIndividuals are no strangers to the ups and downs of life. And with those ups and downs comes a struggle to maintain your confidence and self-worth. Factors out of your control, like playing time, injuries, job success, and outside opinions can threaten your identity. How do you maintain a steady mindset in the midst of it all? How do you stay confident through adversity?This episode, we answer those questions and discuss how to build self-confidence and self-worth on and off the field. It’s a common struggle we all face. But it’s manageable with the righ...
2023-04-2557 minButterfly RoadSunday RoutinesFor as long as we can remember, Sundays have been our least favorite day of the week. The excitement and activities of the weekend are gone, and you’re staring at five days of responsibilities until another weekend comes around. The temptation to be a couch potato is strong, but you know it’ll make things even worse. So, what do you do?Join us this week as we discuss creating your own Sunday routine and things you can do to hit the ground running on Monday.
2023-01-1033 minButterfly RoadAthlete Spotlight: John WallThis episode we dive into the life of five-time NBA All-Star, John Wall. Wall made a name for himself as a point guard for the Washington Wizards, starting in 2010. He faced a storm of hardships including his mother’s death, a ruptured Achilles tendon, as well as getting traded from the Washington Wizards. Through these events, Wall battled with clinical depression and detailed his struggles in a Players’ Tribune article. We discuss the hardships, but more so, the inspiration Wall used to pull himself out of his depression. Once again, we see the positive effects of vulnerability and h...
2022-12-0134 minButterfly RoadThe High School to College TransitionOne of the biggest universal experiences all humans face is transition. Transition in where you live, transition in where you work – transition is unavoidable. And often, transitions bring about a ton of stress and anxieties. This episode we discuss the transition from high school to college, and the obstacles you face with this change in relation to your sport. Suddenly, you’re in an entirely new environment, learning the ropes, trying to make new friends, all while fighting for a spot in the lineup. Join us as we discuss our experience with the high school to college trans...
2022-10-0640 minButterfly RoadFill Up Your CupExpansion teams come with a lot of press, buzz and excitement. But rarely does the public hear about the growing pains of the team's first season. An entirely new roster, coaching staff, front office, and routine are a few of the obstacles expansion teams face. That paired with the transition from your previous club can be a daunting task to face. But with this challenge comes immense growth, and ultimately, amazing life experiences that make you stronger and better on and off the field. Experiences Cari wouldn't trade for anything! Join us as we discuss Angel City's w...
2022-07-1930 minButterfly RoadAthlete Spotlight: DeMar DeRozanDeMar DeRozan, Chicago Bulls’ dominant shooting guard, is no stranger to success. With five NBA All-Star games under his belt, he’s shown poise and consistency in the league since his induction in 2009. However, our admiration of DeRozan is for something that can’t be found on the stat sheet. It comes from the vulnerability to talk about his depression and ignite a long-overdue conversation in the NBA about mental health. Join us as we discuss DeRozan’s background, playing history, and the ways he changed the NBA for the better!
2022-05-1045 minButterfly RoadGuest Appearance: Diego BocanegraThis week we sit down with Diego Bocanegra-- the first coach to ever join us on Butterfly Road. Diego spent three seasons as an assistant coach at Notre Dame where he coached us. After, he led the University of Houston women's soccer team to their most successful season in program history as a head coach. During this episode, we ask Diego all the questions we couldn't as players and where he sees the future of soccer as it relates to mental health. He shares the pillars he stuck to as a coach and details his perspective on p...
2022-04-121h 05Butterfly RoadGuest Appearance: Joanna Boyles & Tina IordanouJoin us this week as we sit down with Tina Iordanou and Joanna Boyles – hosts of one of our favorite podcasts Two Washups One Pro. Being former professional soccer players themselves, they know far too well the identity crisis an athlete experiences when they retire from their sport. As they bring us through their stories of retirement and finding themselves outside of soccer, we realize that this life transition is relatable to all types of people (athlete or not). What makes up your identity? How do you cope with the fear of losing your identity after leaving some...
2022-03-051h 01Butterfly RoadGuest Appearance: Emily PerrinNew Year’s resolutions have us all trying to better ourselves this year. And what better way to start than with our mental headspace and emotions! In this episode, we had the pleasure of speaking to Emily Perrin, CEO and Founder of Perrin Wellness and Performance. She is an integrative health coach and expert in all things mindfulness, meditation, and yoga. As a former D1 soccer player herself, Emily loves working with collegiate and professional athletes, helping them navigate the mental challenges of their sport.Tune in to hear about her meditation routines, techniques to sta...
2022-01-031h 04Butterfly RoadNWSL Season RecapOur special guest this week is none other than my cohost, Cari Roccaro!Every athlete knows the grind, challenges, and triumphs that accompany a sports season and Cari’s 2021 NWSL journey was just that. But her ability to stay steady, refocus and deal with those challenges is what allowed her to mentally grow throughout it all. Tune in to hear about her journey and advice she has for those also going through it!
2021-12-0927 minButterfly RoadGuest Appearance: Stephen JohnsThis week, we sat down with former NHL player Stephen Johns to discuss his journey from rock bottom to roller-blading across the country.Stephen Johns played professionally for the Chicago Blackhawks and Dallas Stars organizations from 2014 to 2020. He had to step aside for two years and ultimately from the game altogether due to too many concussions. This started his downward spiral leading to depression.Join us to hear the unique story of how he embarked on a cross-country MentalMiles journey and overcame his depression!
2021-11-0448 minButterfly RoadCrystals, Halloween Costumes and Self WorthIt's officially spooky season and what's scarier than Halloween itself? Evaluating yourself through the eyes of other people! Oftentimes, we learn at a young age that others' opinions determine our self-worth. As we grow up, this belief system becomes reinforced and harder to grow out of. But fear not! In this episode, we discuss the origins of your self-worth and different techniques/practices you can use to improve it. We promise it's never too late to work on yourself. All you need to do is take the first step -- so tune in!
2021-10-1340 minButterfly RoadGrief, Stress and BucatiniWe're back and boy do we have a LOT to catch up on! Work stress, breakthrough COVID infections, moving across the country, and the loss of a loved one -- life has thrown us some curveballs. We'd be remiss if we had not taken the last few weeks off. After all, we constantly preach stepping away to focus on your mental health.But now we're recharged and so happy to be back discussing sports, life and the mental rollercoaster ride of it all. Join us!
2021-09-3034 minButterfly RoadGuest Appearance: James OnwualuThis episode, we sit down with our friend and former Notre Dame football captain, James Onwualu! James’ story is unlike anything we’ve ever heard. From injuries, to cuts, to crashing on people’s couches on both coasts, James has been through the ringer. In a league as cut-throat as the NFL, these obstacles can bring you to a dark place mentally. And yet, his resilience pushed him to get back out there every time. Join us as he discusses – for the first time ever – his journey and what the landscape looks like f...
2021-08-1354 minButterfly RoadComparing Yourself to OthersDo you ever feel like your self-esteem is lower after looking at someone else’s Instagram? Do doubts creep in when you see someone achieve something you desire? Comparing yourself to others is natural—we all do it. However, life is more fun — and more manageable — when we focus on self-growth rather than others' accomplishments. Tune in for a raw conversation on our struggles with comparing, why it’s important to avoid it, and tips and tricks on how to do so!
2021-07-2236 minButterfly RoadAthlete Spotlight: Terry BradshawFrom the outside looking in, Terry Bradshaw had it all -- 4 Super Bowls, a great job as an NFL analyst, wife and kids, appearances in movies and TV shows. His never-ending success, colorful personality, and southern charm made him a fan-favorite all over the world. But this happy facade made it that much harder for the public to believe him when he came out with depression and ADD. Some even went as far as accusing him of using it as a publicity stunt.Join us as we discuss the obstacles Bradshaw overcame in a time period known...
2021-07-0936 minButterfly RoadWhat to Say & Not to SayWe’re strong believers in the idea that if we were all a little more educated on mental illness and how to help, the world would be a better place. Struggling with a mental illness is hard -- we spent the first 25 episodes just scratching the surface! This episode is dedicated to those on the sideline just trying to help. Our conversation dives into what to say, what not to say, what to do, and what not to do. Tune in to hear our advice on being there for someone going through it!
2021-06-2537 minButterfly RoadGuest Appearance: Dr. Brad MillerJoin us this week as we sit down with Dr. Brad Miller, a 20-year clinical psychologist and founder at Soccer Resilience. Brad specializes in helping youth and adult athletes strengthen confidence, resilience, performance and well-being on and off the field. We asked him all the things on our minds, as well as YOUR submitted questions. From pandemic stress, to reset techniques, to performance anxiety in and out of sport — Brad had us leaving refreshed, validated and feeling as though we had our own little therapy session. If you want in on all these good vibes, tune in!
2021-06-111h 13Butterfly RoadGisele Bündchen and GratitudeBeing grateful and practicing gratitude can be very different things. For example, I'm grateful for Netflix, wine, and not receiving any work emails before 9 AM. But to properly practice gratitude, one must do it with intent. It could be anything big or small, silly or serious -- as long as you're consistent. The more committed you are to practicing gratitude, the more your brain picks up on the beautiful little things all around us. It changes your brain chemistry and literally makes you think happier thoughts. If that's not a cheat code, I don't know what is! J...
2021-06-0446 minButterfly RoadAthlete Spotlight: Aly RaismanThis week, we take you through an Athlete Spotlight episode featuring none other than the beautiful and brave Aly Raisman. You may know her as the two-time Olympic gymnast — but do you know her story?Sexual abuse and post-traumatic stress disorder are two of a few things she comes face-to-face with every day. Her story isn’t one of defeat, however, as she has stepped up and been vocal about her issues in the hopes of helping others. Tune in to hear her struggles, and more importantly, the techniques she uses to stay level-headed and kick her demo...
2021-05-1339 minButterfly RoadHitting the Reset ButtonAfter a two-week reset, we're back to talk about just that! Resetting and giving yourself the proper recovery from life -- whether that's physically, mentally, or both! Having self-awareness and understanding when you're burned out is crucial to maintaining a balanced and healthy mindset. Noone's perfect and we all come close or even hit our breaking point at times. However, the right techniques and tools can help you feel in control and empowered to get yourself back on the right track. Tune in and recharge with us!
2021-05-0135 minButterfly RoadStepping Away for Your Mental HealthThis week we discuss our favorite Kardashian, social media trolls, stepping away to take care of your mental health, and how to go about doing so. No matter the circumstances, life can be overwhelming at times. We're here to remind you that you're not alone and there are tools at your disposal that can help turn things around. Tune in!
2021-04-0938 minButterfly RoadBouncing BackThis week, we talk about the ways in which we handle setbacks and the coping mechanisms we use to bounce back.
2021-04-0131 minButterfly RoadAthlete Spotlight: Michael PhelpsThis week, we take you through Michael Phelps' story of Olympic success, mental health struggles, legal troubles and the ultimate journey to discover who he is apart from swimming.
2021-03-2446 minButterfly RoadGuest Appearance: Lindsey HoranThis week, we sit down with Lindsey Horan as she tells her story of playing professionally in France at the age of 18. An experience comprised of tough decisions, new cultures, body image issues, and a struggle to maintain her love for the game. Through details never shared before, we learn how the Portland Thorns and US Women’s National Team midfielder got to where she is today and the experiences that shaped her current outlook as a world-renowned footballer.
2021-03-171h 06Butterfly RoadQ&A: Cari and GinnyThis week we answer YOUR questions and share things about ourselves we haven't in past episodes. Some funny, some serious, some sports-related, and some not -- we talk about it all! Tune in!
2021-03-1040 minButterfly RoadThe Science People & ADHDThis week we talk about ADHD and all the misconceptions that go with it! We learned that those with ADHD (including Simone Biles and Michael Phelps) experience the world in a different way. And even though it’s challenging at times, some channel it in their sport or profession. We put it all on the table and tackle the stigma once and for all. Tune in!
2021-03-0332 minButterfly RoadAthlete Spotlight: Liz CambageIt's about time for another athlete spotlight! This week, we talk about Australian & WNBA superstar Liz Cambage. Liz's story showcases her strength and perseverance through alcohol problems, mental health and pressure experienced on the largest of stages. Her time at the Olympics and with the WNBA gives us an inside look at her journey to overcome her own mental demons. We are now the biggest Liz Cambage fans and you'll become one too after listening to this episode -- so tune in!
2021-02-2344 minButterfly RoadFamiliarity and The UnknownChange and transition can be very daunting, especially if you are a fellow routine-lover like us. One thing we do know is that change is inevitable, but fear not as we have a few tips and tricks up our sleeve. Tune in to hear the ways we cope with change and what's worked best for us in times of transition!
2021-02-1640 minButterfly Road1-Hour Wall SitsRaise your hand if you think doing a 1-hour wall sit should be illegal 🙋🏻♀️This week we dive into our time on the Notre Dame soccer team and all the ups and downs that came with it (literally). Would we do it all over again if given the choice? Yes. Did it sometimes make us want to drop-kick any item in our path? Also, yes. We give you the unfiltered take on our college years and an inside look into life as a student-athlete.
2021-02-0940 minButterfly RoadGuest Appearance: Jess McDonaldThis week, Jessica McDonald joins us as the first EVER Butterfly Road Podcast guest! Her story is inspirational and multifaceted -- childhood struggles, family relations, injuries, rejection, forgiveness, motherhood -- she covers it all.Tune in to hear Jess' triumphs through adversity and how it all brought her here today!
2021-02-0158 minButterfly RoadThe Bed-wettersWeakness is normal! Anyone who tells you otherwise needs to take a lap. Being a leader - whether it be in sports, the classroom, the office - is a hard job. Being a leader and struggling with mental health is even harder. So, how do we get through it?This week, we discuss what it's like being a leader while dealing with your mental health. It's not all rainbows and sunshine, and there are things we'd do differently if given the chance. But those hard lessons brought us here today and we wouldn't have it any other...
2021-01-2538 minButterfly RoadThe Wall SpiderHave you ever equated your personal value with how you're doing at your job, on the field, or in the classroom? If yes, then boy do we feel your pain. If no, then please tell us your secret! This episode, we discuss our struggles in separating our self-worth from our performance on the job. We also share different tips and tricks we -- and various professional athletes -- use to help keep us grounded. Join us to hear our usual raw, embarrassing, and genuine stories about mental health!
2021-01-1246 minButterfly RoadAthlete Spotlight: Hayden HurstThis week, we discuss restaurant wine tasting and our wish for it not to exist. It's a lovely gesture, we're just not classy enough to appreciate it. We also take a look at NFL tight end, Hayden Hurst, and his incredible story of struggle and perseverance in the face of depression.
2021-01-0537 minButterfly RoadInstagram vs. RealityDon't get us wrong, we love the gram, twittersphere, the snap, and have even dabbled a bit in the TikTok scene (clearly out of our element there). However, it's important to remember how detrimental social media can be for our mental health. We discuss it all in this week's episode!
2020-12-2936 minButterfly RoadMilk & HoneyThis week, we listen to YOUR suggestions and discuss ways we cope with our own mental health flare-ups. In addition, we chat about the possible existence of human-like life forms in the deep sea and whether or not they have grocery stores. Tune in to hear it all!
2020-12-1436 minButterfly RoadTake a Chill PillIf you could tell your pre-high school or pre-college self anything, what would it be? This week, we discuss our answers to this question as well as some of our more embarrassing moments growing up.
2020-12-0733 minButterfly RoadAthlete Spotlight: Colin WilsonNew pop culture obsessions, an introduction to a new life in Sweden, and an uplifting and informative chat about Colin Wilson's experiences with OCD.
2020-11-2936 minButterfly RoadUnravel Your Yarn BallsExercise confessions, airport pet peeves, and a raw and vulnerable discussion about anything and everything related to triggers and anxiety.
2020-11-2144 minButterfly RoadThe Last Chicken at WalmartTune into Episode 3 for blunt thoughts about men's bathrooms as well as a relatable and honest discussion regarding the struggles and silver linings of COVID-19.
2020-11-0238 minButterfly RoadAthlete Spotlight: Dak PrescottA brief Bachelorette recap (no spoilers), the meaning behind the name "Butterfly Road," Dak Prescott, and of course, Skip Bayless. We go through it all in Episode 2!
2020-10-2527 minButterfly RoadWho Gave Us Mics?How do you turn this thing on? Join us for our FIRST EPISODE EVER where we strip down and bare it all...mentally. We say things out loud we haven't in our entire lives-and guess what- it feels amazing! We're about to completely annihilate the athlete & mental health stigma. Come along for the ride and let's talk, baby!
2020-10-1531 min