Michelle and Erika go behind the lens with photographer Lauren Sopourn in this episode of The Spin Chicks. Lauren's journey into photography began at an early age when she discovered her passion for capturing moments. She pursued her love for photography while studying fine arts at Florida Atlantic University and has since made a name for herself as a talented and award-winning sports photographer. Lauren has built an impressive portfolio by photographing numerous collegiate sports events and working closely with professional teams including the Miami Dolphins and the Florida Panthers. Her business, Sports and Media Nation LLC, showcases her entrepreneurial spirit, dedication to the craft and her ability to transform her point of view into a thriving career. Lauren shares her quest from student to professional photographer, the gift that sparked her career and how she prepares for assignments. It's inspiring to hear about her experiences, especially the excitement of capturing the Florida Panthers' 2024 Stanley Cup champion run, highlighting her role as a moment historian in the world of sports.

In this episode of The Spin Chicks, Erika turns the mic on Michelle to talk about her work with previous guest Lashinda Demus as she prepares to receive her gold medal at the Olympic Games in Paris. Lashinda’s journey to the first-ever medal reallocation ceremony has been a long one, and Michelle takes us back to the track at South Carolina, where they met as student-athlete and SID. Michelle recounts the emotional phone call when Lashinda learned she would finally receive her gold medal. Working with Lashinda as a friend, as well as a seasoned PR professional, she provides insight into what has happened since that call. Michelle also gives us a behind-the-scenes look into planning and preparing to share this monumental news with the public. From developing a media campaign to planning a trip to Paris, Michelle’s dedication to helping her friend in one of the most memorable moments of her life shines through.

Michelle and Erika are thrilled to mark the first anniversary of The Spin Chicks podcast by welcoming back their very first guest, the incredible Dawn Ellerbe. A trailblazing track and field collegiate athlete, Olympian, and sports administrator at Vanderbilt, Dawn joins us to reflect on an eventful year. She shares her experiences with a major cross-country move and a significant career change, providing her perspective on personal and professional growth. We also share insight on the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, along with the latest in fashion, sports, and more. Tune in and let’s celebrate what a difference a year makes!

The Spin Chicks digitally bridge an 8,000-mile gap to chat with Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan's javelin star - who, weeks after this conversation, threw 92.97 meters (305 feet and 1/4 inch) in Paris for an Olympic record and Pakistan's first individual Olympic gold. With coach and mentor Salman Butt helping translate this podcast, Arshad opens up about training in 113-degree heat, his mental preparation and visualization routine, and how rhythmic dance improved his approach with the 8.2-pound javelin. A rare look inside the work that produced a historic moment.

In this breaking news podcast (May 29, 2024), the Spin Chicks visit with U.S. Olympian Lashinda Demus.  Lashinda has been collaborating with the IOC for more than a year.  When the gold medal is placed around her neck in Paris’ Champions Park beneath the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower on August 9th - Lashinda will finally kiss her medal as the champion of the 400-meter hurdles race from the 2012 London Olympics.  This will be the first-ever medal reallocation ceremony held at a Summer Olympic games.  Lashinda reflects on being the true pioneer, how this ceremony came to fruition, what it’s been like the last couple of years and more.  She also gives us a preview of some of her picks for Paris Gold Medals as well.

Michelle and Erika are excited to congratulate Traci Messier on her exciting new career venture. They discuss Traci's transition from a P.R. agency executive to the corporate communications director for U.S. Soccer. They are eager to hear more about her experiences and insights in this new role. Traci shares her enthusiasm about upcoming events, including the 2026 Men’s World Cup. Additionally, she reveals exciting plans for a new campus being built in suburban Atlanta. It will serve as a hub for training and development within the organization.

During a catch-up session with Michelle and Erika, Traci Messier fondly reminisces about her past as a Syracuse Orangemen cheerleader and her successful 10-year career as a TV sports and news anchor. Traci reflects on how her weekend shift influenced her decision to eventually leave the sports coverage scene in northern New York. She shares stories, including covering the Bills Mafia beat. In addition to her broadcasting experience, Traci discusses her life working in PR Agencies in the South, highlighting her versatility and adaptability in the media industry. Traci also takes a moment to reflect on her husband Christian, who is a dedicated full-time chef, adding a personal touch to the conversation.

Michelle and Erika catch up with Bob Gillespie, a former columnist for The State in Columbia, S.C. He reflects on his experiences as a sportswriter for the Gamecocks, Clemson, PGA Tour and more. Navigating the dynamics of being a sports journalist is different and Bob filled us in some of the behind-the-scenes of it all. He talks about just how much the profession has evolved over the years. With the rise of digital media and social platforms, Bob elaborates on the challenges of the role and the future of the profession. He also sprinkles in stories from his time on the beat, from unforgettable games to encounters with both coaches and players (and SIDs!). 

Captivated by the topic of trust with Roy Reid, a leading authority on trust, business, and executive communications, The Spin Chicks make this episode a breakout session as they talk about trust in sports and public relations. Can trust exist in sports and how do Roy’s principles of The Trust Transformation apply in these industries? Roy relishes the coach role as we continue to talk about trust in our daily life.

Kathleen Hohl built her career in public relations from the ground up, beginning as a softball student-athlete at Akron (the most successful team in school history) to her current position as Manager of Presidential Communication at Marquette. Her journey showcases how being a part of a team shaped her life personally and professionally. Throughout her career, Kathleen has seized every opportunity to learn, grow, and mentor others. She is a passionate pro who thrives under pressure but is always guaranteed to bring the lols. Self described as #JustAKidFromAkron (she went to the same high school as Lebron James), Kathleen’s authenticity and sense of humor stand out as she shares stories and advice with The Spin Chicks.