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Victoria sits down with Lily Shimbashi — the woman who built Sportsish from a glow light, an Amazon mic, and a business plan she started years before Sportsish was created. Before she was interviewing athletes on ESPN red carpets, Lily was a broadcast assistant, making $7.25 an hour as a PA for the Utah Jazz, watching the men around her tear down the woman she wanted to be someday.

Lily takes us from a broadcast truck to New York City, from early motherhood to launching Sportsish during nap time, from a thousand followers overnight to a hundred thousand the year Taylor Swift walked into Arrowhead. She's unapologetic about who she built it for, what it took to get there (years without monetization), and what's next.

This is exactly the kind of conversation The Game was built for: a woman who loves sports, built a sports company, and never once waited for the industry to give her a seat.

What we cover:

• Working in a Utah Jazz broadcast truck and watching the men tear down a woman broadcaster right in front of her
• Applying to hundreds of sports broadcasting jobs, getting rejected, and deciding to go build her own dream
• Having her first baby at 26 — and how a wave of intuition while nursing changed everything
• Launching Sportsish from her apartment during nap time 
• September 27, 2023: how Sportsish hit 100K
• Being unapologetic about making content "not for men" — and why that's exactly the point
• Her new partnerships with ESPN and Togethxr ("Everyone Watches Women's Sports")
• How she manages an all-female team, weekend sports schedules, and two kids under seven
• The women she thinks every NFL fan needs to know: Adriana from Black Girls Love Football and Nicole Lynn, a record-breaking sports agent.

Follow Lily on Instagram: Lily.beths & Sportsish

Sportsish Website | Sportsish Substack

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Find Kellie on Instagram & TikTok

Kellie Finlayson's Book: There Must Be More: Finding Purpose in a life with cancer

Kellie's Symptom Tracker

Guest: Kellie Finlayson — AFL WAG, stage 4 colorectal cancer survivor, author, and advocate based in Australia.

Episode Description: Kellie Finlayson flew from Australia to Dallas to catch a Cowboys Thanksgiving game — and ended up in the cheerleaders' locker room. That's the kind of woman she is. But Kellie's story goes so much deeper than football. She's the wife of 12-year AFL veteran Jeremy Finlayson, a mom to four-year-old Sophia, a published author, and a stage 4 colorectal cancer survivor who was told she had three years to live — three years ago.

In this episode we get into the AFL vs NFL (chaos ball, anyone?), WAG culture in Australia vs the US, what it's really like to be a partner in pro sports, and then Kellie opens up about seven years of being dismissed by doctors, her diagnosis at 26, chemotherapy on her birthday, and how she's given her experience purpose through her book, There Must Be More.

This one hits different. Don't miss it.

Topics Covered:

• How a Cowboys Thanksgiving game converted an AFL girl
• Breaking down Australian rules football for NFL fans
• AFL vs NFL: pay, ownership, fan culture, and merch
• WAG culture in Australia vs the US — and why the NFL is changing the game
• Jeremy's 12-year AFL career and what delisting actually feels like
• Seven years of being dismissed by doctors before a stage 4 diagnosis
• Starting chemo on her 26th birthday
• How Kellie and Jeremy's relationship survived it all
• Writing her book There Must Be More — and dropping it off to friends before running out the door
• What NOT to ask someone who is seriously ill
• Why aging is a privilege, and how Kellie is living her 30s differently

Links:

• Follow Kellie on Instagram: @kellie_finlayson_
• Get her book, There Must Be More: Available on Amazon
• Her symptom tracker: https://www.trustyourgut.org.au/

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A Super Bowl that felt like a slog on the field still delivered a story worth telling: pressure beats plans, patience wins possessions, and sometimes a running back defines the biggest stage. We unpack how Seattle’s defense squeezed Drake May into sacks and hurried throws, why five field goals quietly controlled the scoreboard, and how Kenneth Walker’s vision and timing earned a long-overdue Super Bowl MVP for a RB. Then we tackle the quarterback discourse: Sam Darnold’s night wasn’t flashy, but it was calm, clean, and exactly what the moment required. Meanwhile, the Patriots’ line and receivers struggled to create answers until late, when the math had already tilted.

The culture, though, was electric. Coco Jones and Brandi Carlile set a high bar before kickoff, Green Day gave the Bay a nostalgic jolt, and Bad Bunny turned halftime into a masterclass in inclusive storytelling. Minimalist staging. Maximal joy. Human “grass,” street chairs, a pickup, and a camera plan that felt intimate at stadium scale—plus a Gaga surprise that underscored the show’s message of openness and community. We contrast that precision with the NFL Honors’ awkward bits, mispronounced names, and tone-deaf jokes that undercut a night meant to celebrate players. The league proved it can stage world-class culture; now it should bring that same care to honoring its own.

We close with our ins and outs: Walker’s patience in, efficient field goals (yes, really) in, messy playoff beards and stale jokes out. We look ahead to international NFL games, the Winter Olympics as our sports bridge, and a summer slate of interviews that keep smart, inclusive football talk flowing. Hit play for a candid, women-led breakdown that blends tape, tactics, and culture without the fluff. If you enjoy the show, subscribe, share with a friend, and leave a review—your support helps us keep amplifying voices and yapping ball all year.

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We're happy you're here. If you enjoyed the episode, please send it to a friend, share it on social, or leave us a cute 5-star review.

JOIN THE COMMUNITY of women in our Substack community for gameday chats, exclusive articles, and more NFL by the girls. Thegamethepodcast.substack.com

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Find Steph on Instagram: her personal account & photography account

Follow The Game on social: 

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Ever wonder how someone goes from a 911 console to the Detroit Lions’ sideline with a camera in hand? We bring you an intimate, step-by-step look at how freelance photographer Steph Van Wagner built a career in pro sports through smart outreach, gritty portfolio work, and unshakable calm under pressure. From weddings with zero retakes to Ford Field’s catwalk, Steph shares the exact moves that turned a fan POV video into a coffee meeting, then into a season contract.

We dig into the nuts and bolts that most people never see: why “don’t ask for a credential” is rule number one, how contributing photographer contracts and image rights actually work, and the no-gambling policies that can end a season before it starts. Steph breaks down game-day rhythm—arriving before the crowds, rotating between sideline action and partnership deliverables, and using shared presets for cohesive edits—plus the captioning and upload pipeline that keeps content flowing fast. If you’re building a portfolio, you’ll hear practical ways to shoot for free without working for exposure forever, how to DM with purpose, and what kind of questions earn real mentorship.

Steph also opens up about resilience: the portfolio review that left her in tears, the Michigan–Oregon assignment that arrived two weeks later, and the mindset shift that turned criticism into fuel. For women carving a path on male-dominated sidelines, she offers a grounded message—your eye belongs here, your voice matters, and kindness is a competitive edge. Whether you’re an aspiring sports photographer or a curious fan, you’ll leave with a clear playbook for breaking in, staying in, and growing your craft with integrity.

If this conversation pushed you to take your next shot, follow, share, and leave a quick review. Tell us the one skill you’re committing to improve this month—we’ll cheer you on.

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We're happy you're here. If you enjoyed the episode, please send it to a friend, share it on social, or leave us a cute 5-star review.

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Follow Bri (Hot Girls Talk Sports) on Instagram & TikTok

A snowstorm rolled into Denver right as New England took the lead, and suddenly every inch mattered. We dig into how weather, special teams, and culture swung Patriots-Broncos, including the wild sequence of a practice-squad elevation tipping a potential game-tying kick and a holder setting up a yard too shallow in whiteout conditions. The lesson isn’t just about points; it’s about programs. Why does one AFC East team keep finding its way to Super Sunday while rivals stall despite talent and hype? Ownership standards, coherent systems, and consistent situational football stack advantage long before the snap.

Out west, Seattle showed the blueprint. Sam Darnold delivered poised, precise quarterbacking, while JSN and Kenneth Walker turned routine plays into steady gains. No hero capes, no panic throws—just layered offense and a defense that didn’t ask for miracles. We contrast that with the Rams’ reliance on late-game theatrics and ask the uncomfortable question: can a team built on final-drive drama survive January? Along the way, we dissect a pivotal taunting flag, a missed roughing call, and the broader frustration with officiating. If the league wants credibility, it needs fewer, clearer penalties and consistent replay thresholds that travel from crew to crew.

We also talk media moments—from WAG style done right to the Empire State Building lighting up in Patriots colors—and why narratives shape how fans process results. Our rapid-fire ins and outs crown team football over hero ball, call for transparency in the coaching carousel, and underline accountability off the field. If you care about how champions are built, how officiating shapes legacies, and why Seattle’s balance feels sustainable, you’ll find plenty to argue with and even more to steal for your own football lens.

Enjoyed the breakdown? Follow, rate, and share to keep the conversation going—and tell us your fix for officiating consistency and your pick for the Lombardi.

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We're happy you're here. If you enjoyed the episode, please send it to a friend, share it on social, or leave us a cute 5-star review.

JOIN THE COMMUNITY of women in our Substack community for gameday chats, exclusive articles, and more NFL by the girls. Thegamethepodcast.substack.com

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In this engaging conversation, Carly Teller shares her journey as an NFL wife, her relationship with Wyatt Teller, and the dynamics of navigating life in the public eye. She discusses the challenges of free agency, the importance of community engagement, and her approach to social media. Carly emphasizes the significance of open communication in her marriage and reflects on the traditions she has established within the Cleveland Browns community. In this engaging conversation, Carly Teller shares her experiences as an NFL wife, her journey through social media, and the importance of community and relationships in the world of football. She discusses the dynamics of dating in the digital age, the significance of personal branding, and the challenges and joys of motherhood. Carly also reflects on the quarterback situation in the NFL and the media's portrayal of it, emphasizing the need for patience in relationships and the value of finding true love.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Carly Teller
00:58 Carly's TikTok Journey and Relatability
03:54 How Carly and Wyatt Met
09:52 The Evolution of Their Relationship
11:48 Navigating Media as a Couple
15:44 Carly's Social Media Presence and Wyatt's Perspective
19:48 Discussion on the Cleveland Browns
20:23 Wyatt's Love for His Quarterbacks
25:13 The Quarterback Situation in Cleveland
33:55 Celebrating Miles Garrett and His Achievements
38:21 Starstruck Moments in the NFL
40:26 The Emotional Rollercoaster of Free Agency
49:44 Building a Life in Cleveland
55:21 The Loyalty of NFL Fans
58:01 Connecting with Browns Fans
01:00:19 Life Before the NFL
01:01:37 The Journey into Social Media
01:04:10 Balancing Glamour and Reality
01:08:18 Advice for Young Women
01:11:52 Describing Love in Three Words
01:14:03 Introduction to Carly Teller and Her Impact
01:15:29 Carly's Journey and Connection to the Cleveland Browns
01:16:21 Introduction to The Game Podcast
01:16:22 Exploring Key Themes in Gaming
01:16:52 The Importance of Flavor in Healthy Eating
01:17:52 Enhancing Meals with Quality Ingredients

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We're happy you're here. If you enjoyed the episode, please send it to a friend, share it on social, or leave us a cute 5-star review.

JOIN THE COMMUNITY of women in our Substack community for gameday chats, exclusive articles, and more NFL by the girls. Thegamethepodcast.substack.com

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A weekend this wild doesn’t teach one lesson—it teaches five. We unpack how the Bills coughed away a winnable game against the Broncos, why a single backward toss can tilt an entire locker room, and what clean, boring, effective football looks like when Denver plays it. From there, we go deep on the officiating confusion—PI standards, catch rules, and the gap between the rulebook and what fans see on replay—and offer a simple fix: fewer penalties, clearer definitions, and better communication.

The Patriots advance after the Texans’ offense hit a wall, with CJ Stroud buried by turnovers and a thin receiver room. That launches our larger theme: hero ball doesn’t scale in January. Mobility and magic help, but if your quarterback is your run game, your bailout, and your identity, you’re one hit or one bad read from the cliff. We contrast that with sustained, system-first teams and call out the front office responsibility to build real support.

We also relive the Rams-Bears thriller—Caleb Williams’ audacious heave, overtime heartbreak, and Los Angeles’ habit of living on field goals. It’s thrilling, but it’s not a blueprint. Add in the surge of lower-leg injuries and the coaching carousel spinning from Buffalo to New York to Miami, and you get the bigger picture: the teams that survive are the ones that protect the ball, manage moments, and keep players healthy. That’s the DNA of a January contender.

If you loved the breakdown, tap follow, share this with a friend who texts during every drive, and leave a quick review to help more football fans find us. Join our group chat at thegamethepodcast.com and tell us: who’s your pick to go all the way?

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We're happy you're here. If you enjoyed the episode, please send it to a friend, share it on social, or leave us a cute 5-star review.

JOIN THE COMMUNITY of women in our Substack community for gameday chats, exclusive articles, and more NFL by the girls. Thegamethepodcast.substack.com

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In this lively conversation, Victoria Henderson and Allie Anthony discuss the recent NFL playoff games, focusing on the Rams vs. Panthers matchup, the Bears vs. Packers rivalry, and the challenges faced by quarterbacks like Trevor Lawrence. They also touch on coaching dynamics, the emergence of teams like the Texans and Seahawks, and the significance of women in sports. The discussion wraps up with our classic In's and Out's list. 

Takeaways

Saturday football creates a relaxed atmosphere for fans.
The Rams' performance against the Panthers was underwhelming despite their win.
The Panthers showed resilience and potential in their playoff run.
Rivalries like Bears vs. Packers add intensity to playoff games.
Quarterback performance is crucial in playoff success.
Coaching dynamics can significantly impact team chemistry and performance.
Emerging teams like the Texans and Seahawks are forces to watch.
Throwback uniforms add a nostalgic vibe to the NFL.
Booing your own team reflects a lack of loyalty from fans.
Women in sports are making significant strides and deserve recognition.

Chapters

00:00 Saturday Football Vibes
01:57 Rams vs. Panthers: A Surprising Showdown
03:51 The Panthers' Rise and Future Potential
05:57 Rams' Performance and Playoff Prospects
09:56 Bears vs. Packers: A Rivalry Renewed
12:01 Coaching Rivalries: LaFleur vs. Johnson
15:50 The Young and Fearless Bears
17:37 Jaguars vs. Bills: A Tale of Two Quarterbacks
21:42 The Bills' Playoff Journey and Future
23:45 Seahawks and Texans: Teams to Watch
25:44 Chargers vs. Patriots: A Snooze Fest
30:45 The Thrill of Overtime and Game Predictions
33:31 Analyzing the 49ers vs. Eagles Matchup
36:35 Celebrating Women in Sports
39:47 Coaching Dynamics and Team Cohesion
44:19 In and Out: Loyalty, Trends, and Personalities
56:07 Final Thoughts and Reflections

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We sit down with Abigail Lee to trace her rise from reworking thrifted Bills gear to landing a 70-store wholesale deal, and we unpack how Buffalo’s culture, women fans, and smart social media turned a local idea into a regional brand. Stadium nostalgia, fashion that keeps you warm, and a candid look at scaling without losing soul.

• Buffalo game day as identity and community 
• From bleach-and-dye to first sellouts 
• Social media as the growth engine 
• TOPS partnership and wholesale logistics 
• Manufacturing lessons and QC at scale 
• Women redefining NFL fandom and style 
• Unisex designs and inclusive sizing 
• New stadium hopes and team store goals 
• Bills playoff outlook and rituals

Find Abigail on TikTok, Instagram, on her website, or in Tops Markets.

Head to CusoCuts.com/the game or use code the game for 10% off

Support the show

Thanks for listening to The Game!

We're happy you're here. If you enjoyed the episode, please send it to a friend, share it on social, or leave us a cute 5-star review.

JOIN THE COMMUNITY of women in our Substack community for gameday chats, exclusive articles, and more NFL by the girls. Thegamethepodcast.substack.com

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In this conversation, Mary Crippen, co-creator of NFeLeementary, discusses her innovative project-based learning curriculum that integrates the excitement of the NFL into education. She shares insights on how the NFL draft experience in her classroom fosters teamwork, communication, and life lessons. Mary also addresses the challenges of managing student expectations with losing teams, the role of social media in enhancing engagement, and the surprising recognition she has received from NFL players. Throughout the discussion, she emphasizes the importance of respect, sportsmanship, and the influence of family in education, while highlighting how her passion for teaching has been reignited through this unique curriculum. In this engaging conversation, Mary Crippen discusses the chaotic nature of the current NFL season, highlighting key injuries and team performances. She shares insights on the Dolphins' struggles and future prospects, emphasizing the importance of support systems in both personal and professional life. The discussion also touches on innovative ways to engage students in learning about football, even after the season ends, showcasing the intersection of sports and education.

Follow Mary on TikTok, Instagram and YouTube

Find NFeLementary: https://classclass123.com/

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to NFL Elementary and Mary Crippen's Journey
02:12 The NFL Draft Experience in the Classroom
08:57 Managing Expectations and Team Performance
14:21 Surprising Moments and Recognition in the NFL
19:01 Life Lessons Through Football
28:19 The Role of Family in Education and NFL Elementary
33:34 The Journey Begins: From Classroom to Social Media Stardom
38:59 Reigniting Passion: The Impact of Community in Education
42:37 Chaos on the Field: Analyzing the NFL Season
55:10 Dolphins Dilemma: A Critical Look at Team Performance
55:57 The Dallas Cowboys and Troy Aikman
57:29 Jerry Jones: A Complex Legacy
59:31 Mary's Journey as a Dolphins Fan
01:01:12 Finding Balance: Work and Life
01:05:19 Engaging Students Beyond Football Season
01:09:27 Creative Teaching Methods in NFL Elementary
01:11:20 The Future of NFL Elementary and Community Engagement

Support the show

Thanks for listening to The Game!

We're happy you're here. If you enjoyed the episode, please send it to a friend, share it on social, or leave us a cute 5-star review.

JOIN THE COMMUNITY of women in our Substack community for gameday chats, exclusive articles, and more NFL by the girls. Thegamethepodcast.substack.com

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The Game: Instagram | TikTok

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Ready to try CUSO'S?

Head to cusocuts.com/thegame for 10% off your order!

Love you, Bye! <3