The Game - A Football Podcast by the Girls, for Everyone

Victoria Henderson
  • 5.0 (8)
  • FOOTBALL

The Game is an NFL-based podcast redefining how we look at and talk about sports. We champion female voices, challenge the status quo, and spark the kinds of conversations the sports media world has long overlooked—blending statistics with lifestyle, analysis with authenticity. With casual banter, bold perspectives, and meaningful dialogue, The Game is where every fan, long-time fans, and newcomers alike pull up a chair.  This is where play calls meet culture and community, This is where women call the plays.

  1. 40. Steph VanWagoner: From Starting Over to Sideline Photography for the Detroit Lions

    4D AGO

    40. Steph VanWagoner: From Starting Over to Sideline Photography for the Detroit Lions

    Send us a text Find Steph on Instagram: her personal account & photography account Follow The Game on social:  The Game: Instagram | TikTok  Victoria Henderson: Instagram | TikTok 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. 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, for everyone: Thegamethepodcast.substack.com Ready to try CUSO'S? Head to cusocuts.com/thegame for 10% off your order! FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL: The Game: Instagram | TikTok Victoria Henderson : Instagram | TikTok Love you, Bye! 3

    57 min
  2. 39. Bri Martinez (Hot Girls Talk Sports): Chatting Conference Championships

    JAN 27

    39. Bri Martinez (Hot Girls Talk Sports): Chatting Conference Championships

    Send us a text 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. 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, for everyone: Thegamethepodcast.substack.com Ready to try CUSO'S? Head to cusocuts.com/thegame for 10% off your order! FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL: The Game: Instagram | TikTok Victoria Henderson : Instagram | TikTok Love you, Bye! 3

    53 min
  3. 38. Carly Teller: Cleveland Browns, Social Media, and NFL Free Agency

    JAN 23

    38. Carly Teller: Cleveland Browns, Social Media, and NFL Free Agency

    Send us a text 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 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, for everyone: Thegamethepodcast.substack.com Ready to try CUSO'S? Head to cusocuts.com/thegame for 10% off your order! FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL: The Game: Instagram | TikTok Victoria Henderson : Instagram | TikTok Love you, Bye! 3

    1h 11m

  4. JAN 20

    37. Divisional Weekend Yap with JoJo Cash: Heartbreak and Heroball

    Send us a text 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? 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, for everyone: Thegamethepodcast.substack.com Ready to try CUSO'S? Head to cusocuts.com/thegame for 10% off your order! FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL: The Game: Instagram | TikTok Victoria Henderson : Instagram | TikTok Love you, Bye! 3

    50 min

  5. JAN 13

    36. Wildcard Weekend with Allie Anthony: Hot Takes on Playoff Teams and Women Around the League

    Send us a text 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 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, for everyone: Thegamethepodcast.substack.com Ready to try CUSO'S? Head to cusocuts.com/thegame for 10% off your order! FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL: The Game: Instagram | TikTok Victoria Henderson : Instagram | TikTok Love you, Bye! 3

    1 hr
  6. 35. Abigail Lee: Buffalo, Building the By Abigail Lee Brand and the Bills

    JAN 11

    35. Abigail Lee: Buffalo, Building the By Abigail Lee Brand and the Bills

    Send us a text 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, for everyone: Thegamethepodcast.substack.com Ready to try CUSO'S? Head to cusocuts.com/thegame for 10% off your order! FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL: The Game: Instagram | TikTok Victoria Henderson : Instagram | TikTok Love you, Bye! 3

    51 min
  7. 34. Mary Crippen: NFeLementary Co-Creator and TikTok's Favorite Teacher

    JAN 9

    34. Mary Crippen: NFeLementary Co-Creator and TikTok's Favorite Teacher

    Send us a text 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, for everyone: Thegamethepodcast.substack.com Ready to try CUSO'S? Head to cusocuts.com/thegame for 10% off your order! FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL: The Game: Instagram | TikTok Victoria Henderson : Instagram | TikTok Love you, Bye! 3

    1h 15m

  8. JAN 8

    33. The Game Stats Lab: The NFL's Longest Little Kick, The NFL is Reality TV and The MVP Numbers You Need to Know and

    Send us a text Keywords NFL, Wild Card Weekend, Super Bowl, player stats, coaching changes, playoff predictions, Oregon football, Texans, Steelers, MVP Summary In this episode, Victoria and Giovanna dive into the excitement of Wild Card Weekend in the NFL, discussing the unpredictability of the playoffs, standout players like Cam Little, and the impact of coaching changes on team dynamics. They analyze the playoff picture for both the NFC and AFC, highlight key player statistics, and explore the emergence of Oregon as a quarterback powerhouse. The conversation wraps up with predictions for upcoming matchups and a debate on MVP candidates, emphasizing the significance of the draft in shaping future teams. Takeaways The unpredictability of this NFL season has created thrilling matchups. Cam Little's performance is a highlight in the kicking game. Coaching changes can significantly impact team dynamics and performance. The NFC East has seen a lot of movement in the coaching staff. The Texans are emerging as a formidable defense in the league. Oregon is becoming a notable source for producing top quarterbacks. Matthew Stafford's impressive stats position him as a strong MVP candidate. The draft is crucial for teams looking to rebuild or strengthen their rosters. Playoff experience may not be as critical as team synergy and desire. The media often jumps the gun on discussions about the draft and MVPs.  Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Wild Card Weekend 02:58 Media Predictions and Super Bowl Speculations 05:54 Player Highlights: Cam Little and Kicking Stats 08:56 Coaching Changes and Team Dynamics 11:45 Playoff Picture and Rivalries 14:14 Stat Leaders and Performance Analysis 21:20 Bears vs. Packers: A Clash of Rivals 22:58 49ers and Eagles: Injury Controversies 24:53 The NFC Playoff Picture: Surprises and Predictions 28:52 AFC Playoff Insights: Texans and Patriots 32:36 Quarterback University: Oregon's Rising Stars 34:33 MVP Conversations: Stafford vs. May 45:24 Draft Talk: The Future of NFL Teams 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, for everyone: Thegamethepodcast.substack.com Ready to try CUSO'S? Head to cusocuts.com/thegame for 10% off your order! FOLLOW US ON SOCIAL: The Game: Instagram | TikTok Victoria Henderson : Instagram | TikTok Love you, Bye! 3

    45 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

The Game is an NFL-based podcast redefining how we look at and talk about sports. We champion female voices, challenge the status quo, and spark the kinds of conversations the sports media world has long overlooked—blending statistics with lifestyle, analysis with authenticity. With casual banter, bold perspectives, and meaningful dialogue, The Game is where every fan, long-time fans, and newcomers alike pull up a chair.  This is where play calls meet culture and community, This is where women call the plays.

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