Billie Jean King

Shows

Episodes

  1. How Sarah Spain Used Traditional Sports Media to Build the Future

    1d ago

    How Sarah Spain Used Traditional Sports Media to Build the Future

    Emmy and Peabody Award-winning journalist and Good Game host Sarah Spain finally joins the party! Sarah gets into why she’s betting big on women’s sports, literally, what she learned from becoming a team investor, and why leaving the daily grind of men’s sports coverage has brought more joy and purpose to her work. She also opens up about navigating sexism throughout her career, the growing tension between journalism and rage-bait, and why trustworthy, thoughtful coverage will be essential as women’s sports continue to explode. Then, Sarah introduces Abby and Julie to the idea of “collective effervescence”, the shared energy we feel when we experience something together and perfectly explains why women’s sports can feel like so much more than sports. Plus: Kelsie Whitmore’s post-WTTP home run tear, a legendary weekend for women’s basketball, an unforgettable WAFCON run, the Maryland Charm make history, Sarah flexes her improv skills, and the Party tries the impossible: stumping Sarah Spain.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Substack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.com Welcome to the Party Merch - https://welcometotheparty.voila.store    Keep the Party Going: Get your daily women’s sports fix; listen to The Good Game with Sarah Spain: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/good-game-with-sarah-spain/id1752100672 More Spainer in your feed? Yes please. Follow: https://www.instagram.com/spain2323/ Want to go deeper on “collective effervescence”? Read Jia Tolentino’s: https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2019/05/27/losing-religion-and-finding-ecstasy-in-houston Gio Canali’s possible goal of the year: https://www.instagram.com/reel/Db9poIHtl_O/ The Welcome to the Party effect is real! Here’s where it all started with Kelsie Whitmore: youtube.com/watch?si=EO3coHz3Wc-MxVAt&v=0rcw12-cvwc&feature=youtu.be Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

  2. It's Hard Not To Like The Person You Become

    Aug 11

    It's Hard Not To Like The Person You Become

    What deserves our attention in women’s sports and what are we choosing to amplify? Julie Foudy, Abby Wambach and Billie Jean King dig into the noise surrounding the WNBA, from Caitlin Clark and the league’s growing pains to the stories of joy, excellence and record-breaking performances they’d rather see dominating the conversation. Plus, they break down new research from the Women’s Sports Foundation on movement and body appreciation, react to the Cleveland Sirens’ vision for building a WNBA franchise around women’s sports fans, and somehow find their way to “Boob Gate” at the Tour de France Femmes. Then, record-breaking ocean rower Kelsey Pfendler joins the party fresh off spending 43 days, 17 hours and 55 minutes alone at sea, rowing more than 2,400 miles from California to Hawaii. Kelsey takes us inside the storms, extreme sleep deprivation, meticulous preparation and very real fear that came with becoming the fastest person, man or woman, to complete the solo crossing. She shares why bravery can’t exist without fear, how endurance is as much emotional as it is physical, and why getting older might actually make us better at doing really hard things.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Substack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.com Welcome to the Party Merch - https://welcometotheparty.voila.store    Keep the Party Going: Women’s Sports Foundation Built to Move Study: https://www.womenssportsfoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/2026/07/Built-to-Move.pdf  Our episode with the Authors of Fair Game where we take a deep dive into Transgender athletes: What Everyone Gets Wrong About Trans Athletes Follow Kelsey Pfendler:https://www.instagram.com/kelseypfendler/?hl=en Part of our proceeds from our merch this month will go to the Whale Foundation, the organization that helped Kelsey through some of her toughest times:https://www.whalefoundation.org/   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

  3. How Kelsie Whitmore Became the #1 Overall Pick in Women’s Pro Baseball History

    6d ago

    How Kelsie Whitmore Became the #1 Overall Pick in Women’s Pro Baseball History

    Welcome to the Party is launching its first-ever Book Club with Billie Jean King’s new book, See It to Be It, co-written with Liz Robbins and featuring 11 athletes who are changing what the next generation can imagine. Then, one of those athletes joins the party: history-making baseball player Kelsie Whitmore. The Savannah Bananas star and first overall pick in the new Women’s Pro Baseball League opens up about growing up as the only girl on the field, the isolation and pressure that came with competing in male-dominated spaces, and the emotional moment she finally stepped onto a field surrounded by women who understood that experience. Kelsie also shares what it meant to receive the torch from baseball pioneer Maybelle Blair, why she never gave up on the game she loved, and her message to the next generation: dream big, believe in yourself, and never let anyone else define the version of you that belongs. Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Substack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.com Welcome to the Party Merch - https://welcometotheparty.voila.store    Keep the Party Going: Billie Jean King’s new book, See It to Be It: https://a.co/d/0axjnoVJ Books By Billie Jean King: https://www.goodreads.com/author/list/74527.Billie_Jean_King WPBL Baseball Schedule: https://www.womensprobaseballleague.com/schedule/ Follow Kelsie Whitmore:https://www.instagram.com/kelsie_whitmore/?hl=en Maybelle Blair throwing out the first pitch:https://www.instagram.com/p/Dbl60zFGVeI/ At 95, Maybelle Blair came out to the world, her incredible Story:https://www.mlb.com/news/maybelle-blair-on-coming-out-at-95-and-a-new-league-of-their-own   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

  4. We Interviewed The Cast of Ted Lasso!

    Aug 4

    We Interviewed The Cast of Ted Lasso!

    Believe it, Party People: Ted Lasso is back and this time, women’s soccer is taking center stage. Abby Wambach, Julie Foudy and Billie Jean King sit down with Emmy-winning stars Jason Sudeikis and Hannah Waddingham for a joyful, thoughtful and very funny conversation about the long-awaited fourth season. Jason reveals how his daughter, the Lionesses, the New York Liberty and years of watching women’s sports inspired AFC Richmond’s new women’s team, and how real players and leaders helped shape the stories behind the season. Then, Hannah opens up about Rebecca Welton’s evolution, the subtle sexism women face in leadership and entertainment, mentoring other women and why true feminism sometimes means confronting your own blind spots. Plus, Jason reflects on how playing Ted has changed him, Hannah learns a legendary USWNT cheer and the Party puts both guests through a little musical chaos. It’s an episode about representation, leadership, belonging and the power of women’s sports, with plenty of laughs, heart and, naturally, a whole lot of belief.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Substack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.com Welcome to the Party Merch - https://welcometotheparty.voila.store *for the month of August part of the proceeds will go to the Whale Foundation.   Keep the Party Going: Watch Season 4 of Ted Lasso this Wednesday:https://tv.apple.com/us/show/ted-lasso/umc.cmc.vtoh0mn0xn7t3c643xqonfzy WPBL - Women’s Professional Baseball Season Schedule:https://www.womensprobaseballleague.com/schedule/ Learn more about the Whale Foundation: https://www.whalefoundation.org/   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

  5. How A World Cup Legend Became President of US Soccer

    Aug 6

    How A World Cup Legend Became President of US Soccer

    U.S. Soccer President Cindy Parlow Cone joins Welcome to the Party for a candid conversation about leading American soccer through one of the most transformative eras in its history. From negotiating equal pay and rebuilding trust within U.S. Soccer to opening the new Arthur M. Blank National Training Center and preparing for the 2027 Women’s World Cup and a historic 2031 tournament on home soil, Cindy shares what it really takes to lead through uncertainty. Abby, Julie, Billie Jean and Cindy also break down FIFA’s abandoned private investment proposal, why the men’s World Cup changed the conversation around soccer in America, Mauricio Pochettino’s contract extension, Emma Hayes’ lasting impact, and the work still ahead to make youth soccer more affordable, accessible and fun. It’s an inspiring conversation about leadership, teamwork, and why the future of American soccer has never looked brighter.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Substack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.com Welcome to the Party Merch - https://welcometotheparty.voila.store    Keep the Party Going: Learn more about the Whale Foundation: https://www.whalefoundation.org/ U.S. Soccer Forward Foundation: https://www.ussoccer.com/stories/2024/06/us-soccer-launches-soccer-forward-foundation   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

  6. What Everyone Gets Wrong About Trans Athletes

    Jul 23

    What Everyone Gets Wrong About Trans Athletes

    In Part 1 of this special three-part series, Julie Foudy, Abby Wambach and Billie Jean King take on one of the most complex and emotionally charged conversations in sports today: transgender athletes and the future of women's sports. Joined by Fair Game: Trans Athletes and the Future of Sports authors Dr. Anna Baeth and Ellie Roscher, they explore the facts, science, history and policy behind a debate that has become deeply politicized. Together, they examine questions of fairness, inclusion and opportunity while challenging common misconceptions with data, expert research and the lived experiences of transgender athletes. From the role of Title IX and the realities of elite competition to youth sports, body autonomy and what fairness in sports truly means, this conversation invites listeners to slow down, ask questions and engage with empathy. Even when the answers aren't simple. Whether you're uncertain, curious or firmly opinionated, this episode offers space to listen, learn and better understand one of the defining issues in sports today. *Since this episode was recorded, the WTA announced that all players will be required to undergo one-time SRY gene testing to compete on the women’s tour, bringing tennis into compliance with the IOC’s eligibility requirements ahead of the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics.* Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Substack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.com Welcome to the Party Merch - https://welcometotheparty.voila.store    Keep the Party Going: If you want to learn more or go deeper on some of the things we discussed today, here are a few resources we recommend: 1. Chris Mosier's website is the place to go for action steps and the most up to date policy information: https://www.transathlete.com/ 2. Fair Game by Ellie Roscher and Anna Baeth: https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/fair-game-trans-athletes-and-the-future-of-sports/ 3. There are free resources to pair with the book-- a book discussion guide for folks who want to read FAIR GAME in groups and go deeper and writing prompts for cis folks to explore their cis identity: https://ellieroscher.com/books/fair-game 4. Testosterone: An Unauthorized Biography by Rebecca Jordan-Young and Katrina Karkazis:  5. Fair Play by Katie Barnes: https://www.thriftbooks.com/w/fair-play-how-sports-shape-the-gender-debates_katie-barnes/  Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

  7. Inside the Mind of England’s Greatest Footballer

    Jul 28

    Inside the Mind of England’s Greatest Footballer

    Abby Wambach and Julie Foudy are back from vacation with family reunions, wakeboarding injuries and one very bold Tahoe bear, then it’s straight into a packed week in women’s sports. They break down the biggest moments from WNBA All-Star Weekend, celebrate new champions in softball and women’s tackle football, catch up on the U.S. track and field championships and unpack the World Cup Google searches that had everyone asking the important questions…like whether Europe has ranch. Then, live from Gotham FC’s record-breaking Queens Classic at Citi Field, Abby and Julie sit down with English football legend Lucy Bronze. The most decorated English footballer of all time opens up about watching the women’s game transform around her, the childhood Google search that led her to UNC, playing through the Euros with a broken leg and why “Tough” is quite literally her middle name. Lucy also reflects on her autism and ADHD diagnoses, the response she received after speaking publicly about them, the future of women’s football and whether an NWSL chapter could ever be in the cards. It’s a conversation about toughness, visibility, untapped talent and the barriers women’s sports continue to smash, one record-breaking night at a time. Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Substack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.com Welcome to the Party Merch - https://welcometotheparty.voila.store    Keep the Party Going: Follow Lucy Bronze: https://www.instagram.com/lucybronze/ Gotham’s Record Breaking Queen’s Classic: https://www.gothamfc.com/schedule/washington-spirit-2026-07-16 Check out the WNBA’s Instagram for all the great highlights of the weekend: https://www.instagram.com/wnba The StudBudz excited when “The President” Caitlin Clark stops by the Stream to drop off her new Nike Caitlin 1 shoe: https://x.com/sluggahjells/status/2081147650900922446?s=48 President Obama dropping by the WNBA All Star Practice: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DbLj6QfxQVO/ Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

  8. The Volleyball Star Who Changed The Game

    Jul 30

    The Volleyball Star Who Changed The Game

    Nebraska volleyball star Harper Murray joins Abby Wambach and Julie Foudy live from Fanatics Fest to talk about her rise as one of college volleyball’s biggest names. Harper reflects on playing in front of a record-breaking 92,003 fans, navigating NIL and social media, prioritizing her mental health and stepping into a leadership role ahead of her senior season. She also shares what she has learned from Nebraska’s toughest NCAA Tournament losses, what makes Cornhusker volleyball culture so special and how she is preparing for another national championship run, before facing Abby and Julie in a chaotic live volleyball challenge.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Substack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.com Welcome to the Party Merch - https://welcometotheparty.voila.store    Keep the Party Going: Follow Harper on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/harpermurrayy/ Nebraska’s Schedule:https://huskers.com/sports/volleyball/schedule Nebraska to play a 1 Million Dollar Game at AT&T Stadium: https://www.espn.com/espn/story/_/id/49471859/marquee-matchups-set-1m-women-volleyball-exhibition    Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

  9. The Biggest World Cup Reunion

    Jul 16

    The Biggest World Cup Reunion

    It’s the ultimate World Cup reunion as Abby Wambach and Julie Foudy bring together generations of U.S. Women’s National Team legends, including Mia Hamm, Michelle Akers, Brandi Chastain, Briana Scurry, Kristine Lilly, Becky Sauerbrunn, Julie Ertz and more. The group reflects on the joy, energy and community surrounding this World Cup, breaks down the U.S. men’s heartbreaking exit and gets candid about what was missing when the pressure was highest. Then, the ’99ers and 2015 champions share emotional, hilarious and rarely heard stories from their own World Cup runs, from the moment they realized an entire country was behind them to the goals, saves, locker-room memories and lifelong sisterhood that changed women’s soccer forever. It’s a celebration of the players who built the game, the generations who carried it forward and the unforgettable feeling of representing your country on the world’s biggest stage. Follow the 99er’s movie and celebrate all things 99ers: https://www.instagram.com/the99ersteam/ Becky Sauerbrunn - Catch Teaming Up With Becky Sauerbrunn weekly podcast (part of Sam Mewis’s The Women’s Game podcast). https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLtNimwVrgGBLKQYK-7MgDDmZFIywBhKrx And follow Becky on social @reeba04 https://www.instagram.com/reeba04/  Julie Ertz - Listen to Julie’s amazing new podcast Style of Play, co-hosted with Kealia Watt - https://styleofplayshow.com/ - And follow Julie on social @julieertz - https://www.instagram.com/julieertz/  Michelle Akers - Co-founder of Storied Sports, a storytelling and athlete IP company - https://www.storiedsports.com/team-2 - And follow Michelle on social at @officialmichelleakers - https://www.instagram.com/officialmichelleakers/  Briana Scurry - Follow Briana at https://briscurry.com/ - And follow Briana on social, @briscurry - https://www.instagram.com/briscurry/  Mia Hamm - Co-founder of the Mia Hamm Foundation and part-owner of Angel City FC - https://www.miafoundation.org/ - And follow Mia on social, @miahamm - https://www.instagram.com/miahamm/  Kristine Lilly - Runs the Kristine Lilly Soccer Academy, Author of POWERHOUSE, and member of the NWSL team Boston Legacy’s Athlete Advisory Board. - https://kristinelilly13.com/book/ and https://kristinelilly13.com/klsa-camp/ - And follow Kristine on social, @kristinelilly - https://www.instagram.com/kristinelilly/  Brandi Chastain - Co-founder of NWSL team, Bay FC. - https://bayfc.com/ - And follow Brandi on social, @bchastain6 - https://www.instagram.com/bchastain6/ Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Instagram — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ TikTok — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Substack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.com Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Thank you to our sponsors: Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

  10. USMNT Red Card Was Overturned

    Jul 7

    USMNT Red Card Was Overturned

    Abby has officially lost her voice but luckily, Glennon Doyle is here to sub in, translate, and somehow survive being pulled off the bench at Taylor and Travis’s wedding. Julie, Abby, and Glennon kick things off with a hilarious recap of Abby’s weekend of screaming, soccer, wedding small talk, and one very stressful pocket watch. Then, the crew dives into the World Cup red card controversy that has everyone talking unpacking what happens when politics, power, FIFA, and fairness collide on the biggest stage in sports. Plus, they celebrate record-breaking rower Kelsey Fiedler, react to the 2026 WNBA All-Star starters, check in on Billie Jean King at Wimbledon, and break down the latest tennis headlines from Venus, Serena, Coco Gauff, Naomi Osaka, Madison Keys, and more. And because this is Welcome to the Party, the episode wraps with a psychic cat, a Balogun chant, and one very important reminder: when women in sports win, we all have a reason to party. Follow @welcometothepartyshow on:YouTube — @welcometothepartyshowInstagram — @welcometothepartyshowTikTok — @welcometothepartyshowEmail — partypeoplequestions@gmail.comSubstack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.comWelcome to the Party Merch - https://welcometotheparty.voila.store Keep the Party Going:Follow Kelsey Pfendler: https://www.instagram.com/kelseypfendler/?hl=enListen to Glennon on We Can do Hard Things: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/we-can-do-hard-things/id1564530722WNBA All-Stars: https://www.wnba.com/news/all-star-starters-2026Billy the Cat Predictions: https://www.instagram.com/billy_heartnose/ Thank you to our sponsors:-Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

  11. Julia Gets Wise with Billie Jean King

    04/24/2024

    Julia Gets Wise with Billie Jean King

    Today on Wiser Than Me, Julia sits down with 80-year-old tennis pro, activist, and LGBTQ+ icon Billie Jean King. Billie Jean delves into the nature of leadership, visualization, and her long journey towards self-acceptance. Inspired by the sports legend, Julia asks Billie Jean for advice about her niece’s college soccer career, as well as revealing the original spark that lit her own love of sports. Additionally, Julia’s mom, Judy, reflects on her generation's acceptance of societal norms and the transformative power of the feminist movement.   Follow Wiser Than Me on Instagram and TikTok @wiserthanme and on Facebook at facebook.com/wiserthanmepodcast.   Keep up with Billie Jean King @billiejeanking on Instagram.   Find out more about other shows on our network at @lemonadamedia on all social platforms.   Joining Lemonada Premium is a great way to support our show and get bonus content. Subscribe today at bit.ly/lemonadapremium.    For exclusive discount codes and more information about our sponsors, visit https://lemonadamedia.com/sponsors/.  For additional resources, information, and a transcript of the episode, visit lemonadamedia.com. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

  12. Abby Wambach, Julie Foudy, & Billie Jean King On The Importance of Women's Sports

    Jul 22

    Abby Wambach, Julie Foudy, & Billie Jean King On The Importance of Women's Sports

    Billie Jean King joins Abby Wambach and Julie Foudy for a powerful conversation about equality, leadership, and the confidence sports can build in girls. Recorded in partnership with Dove, the episode explores how sports, representation, and positive role models can help girls develop body confidence, find their voices, and recognize their own potential.Billie Jean reflects on the “Battle of the Sexes,” the sacrifices that transformed women’s sports, and the advice she gave that helped inspire the U.S. Women’s National Team’s pursuit of equal pay. Together, they discuss the importance of asking for what you deserve, the responsibility each generation has to move the game forward, and how one person’s courage can create lasting change. Plus, plenty of laughs—and a reminder that helping the next generation of girls feel confident in who they are can change far more than the game. This special episode of Welcome to the Party is presented by Dove. Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Substack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.com   Keep the Party Going: From now until December 31st, your Dove purchase keeps girls in sports! Go to http://dove.com/purchasetodonate to learn more.   Thank you to our sponsors: Dove

  13. Julie Foudy & Abby Wambach Answer Your Crazy Sports Questions

    Jun 25

    Julie Foudy & Abby Wambach Answer Your Crazy Sports Questions

    In this Party People Q&A episode, Abby Wambach, Julie Foudy, and Billie Jean King hand the mic over to the listeners and tackle the questions everyone actually wants answered. From the very real challenge of returning to sports in midlife, when your brain remembers one body and your knees remember another, to the eternal mystery of soccer’s offside rule, the trio brings their signature mix of wisdom, honesty, and chaos. Billie shares why strength, patience, and listening to your body matter more than trying to jump back in at full speed, Abby talks about learning new sports and taking ownership of your own growth, and Julie makes a passionate case for why offside keeps soccer beautiful, strategic, and just confusing enough to keep parents yelling from the sidelines. They also get into youth coaching, how kids can build confidence and skill outside of formal training, what makes a women’s sports league worth investing in, and the story behind the Welcome to the Party theme song. Plus: Billie’s iconic red glasses, Julie’s fancy hats, and a reminder that this party belongs to the Party People.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Welcome to the Party Merch - https://welcometotheparty.voila.store  SUBSTACK - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

  14. The Wild Story of Hockey’s Ultimate BFFs

    Jul 21

    The Wild Story of Hockey’s Ultimate BFFs

    Olympic gold medalists, three-time national champions and lifelong best friends K.K. Harvey and Laila Edwards are joining the party—along with tennis icon Billie Jean King. For more than a decade, K.K. and Laila have trained, lived and won together. Now, after being selected by different PWHL expansion teams, they're preparing to face off as professional rivals. They take us behind their unforgettable Olympic gold-medal run, winning another NCAA championship with Wisconsin just weeks later, and the friendship that gave them the confidence to believe they belonged on the world's biggest stage. Laila reflects on making history as the first Black woman to win Olympic hockey gold for Team USA and what it means to inspire the next generation of young athletes. K.K. shares why she always knew Laila would make the national team—even before Laila believed it herself. Plus, they reveal the truth behind their hilariously short-lived attempt at raising a bunny, put their TikTok skills to the test with Julie, Abby and Billie Jean, and answer who is most likely to lose an Olympic medal, miss the team bus or own the dance floor. In the Party Starter, we celebrate the record-breaking rise of women's rugby, professional women's hockey, and adaptive and para sports. Come for the Olympic champions. Stay for the bunny drama. Welcome to the Party!   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Substack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.com Welcome to the Party Merch - https://welcometotheparty.voila.store    Keep the Party Going: Follow KK on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/kkharvey/ and TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@kkharvey4/ Follow Laila on Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/laila_edwards/ and TikTok:https://www.tiktok.com/@ledwards21 Women’s Elite Rugby Schedule:https://www.womenseliterugby.us/2026-schedule   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

  15. A World Cup Starter Pack for People Who Don't Understand Soccer

    Jul 9

    A World Cup Starter Pack for People Who Don't Understand Soccer

    The World Cup party continues with a very special crossover. Julie Foudy and Abby Wambach are joined by Glennon Doyle and Amanda Doyle from We Can Do Hard Things for the ultimate World Cup starter pack. From offsides and yellow cards to why the World Cup feels like one giant global sleepover, Julie and Abby break down the beautiful game for anyone who is watching, pretending to understand, or fully emotionally invested. Plus, Abby and Julie react to the USMNT’s heartbreaking exit, talk through the grief of a tough World Cup loss, and explain why cheering for the men’s team also supports the women’s team thanks to U.S. Soccer’s equal pay agreement. It’s soccer, feelings, whiteboards, accountability, and just enough chaos to make this a true party.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Substack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.com   Keep the Party Going: Get more Glennon and Amanda on We Can Do Hard Things: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/we-can-do-hard-things/id1564530722   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

  16. Why Messi is Proving the Haters Wrong

    Jun 18

    Why Messi is Proving the Haters Wrong

    Men’s World Cup fever has officially taken over the party. Abby and Julie break down the start of what feels like the biggest Men’s World Cup yet, from the USMNT’s electric opening win and the power of playing on home soil, to Messi making history, Marta still owning the record books, and the global fan chaos that makes this tournament so magical. Plus, they catch up on the latest across women’s sports: Serena and Venus reuniting at Wimbledon, Wimbledon increasing prize money, the WNBA expanding to a 50-game season, the Indiana Fever quieting the drama with wins, the Commissioner’s Cup heating up, USWNT-Brazil fallout, and major PWHL movement with Hilary Knight heading to Detroit. It’s Men’s World Cup obsession, women’s sports headlines, and a reminder that sports might just be the great unifier we need right now.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Instagram — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ TikTok — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Substack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.com   Keep the Party Going: We’ve got Welcome to the Party MERCH!! https://welcometotheparty.voila.store/ The PWHL Award Winners: https://www.thepwhl.com/en/awards The WNBA Commissioner Cup Standings:https://www.wnba.com/standings/commissioners-cup Follow Freddy the German Tourist: https://x.com/FreddyLA7?lang=en The World Cup 15: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DZn4EZ9PjdS/ Follow Cape Verde Goalie: Vozinha:https://www.instagram.com/vozinha1/ Boston Loves Their Scots: https://www.instagram.com/reels/DZl0_zltP_2/   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Use code "podcast" to get a year of Shipt for only $49 -Pick up a bottle of all® free clear detergent for your next laundry day -Sign up and get 10% off at http://betterhelp.com/welcometotheparty -Apple Card is reliable, straightforward, and built to keep up. Apply in the Wallet app on your iPhone today -This Father’s Day, give your dad something meaningful. Go to www.remento.co and use code WELCOME to save $20 through Father’s Day

  17. Why 90% of New College Sports Revenue is Planned for Male Athletes

    Jun 23

    Why 90% of New College Sports Revenue is Planned for Male Athletes

    On the 54th anniversary of Title IX, Abby Wambach, Julie Foudy, and Billie Jean King look ahead at the future of women’s sports in a rapidly changing college athletics landscape. Joined by Women’s Sports Foundation President Swin Cash and CEO Danette Leighton, the hosts break down NIL, revenue sharing, the NCAA settlement, collectives, and the growing concern that women’s sports and Olympic programs could be left behind as new money floods the system. Together, they unpack why Title IX still matters as much today as it did in 1972, what’s at stake for girls and women at every level of sport, and how intentional investment, transparency, and advocacy can protect the next generation of athletes and leaders.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Instagram — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ TikTok — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Substack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.com Merch - https://welcometotheparty.voila.store    Keep the Party Going: Women’s Sports Foundation: https://www.womenssportsfoundation.org/ Play to Lead Study: https://www.womenssportsfoundation.org/articles_and_report/play-to-lead/?_gl=1*1eia117*_gcl_au*MjEwNDczOTczMy4xNzgyMTYzMTIw Title IX Resources Department of Education: https://www.ed.gov/laws-and-policy/civil-rights-laws/title-ix-and-sex-discrimination?utm_source=chatgpt.com   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Learn more at Levi.com -Find a host or co-host at https://www.airbnb.com/host/homes -Goodles is available nationwide at Target and Walmart, plus many other major grocery stores and retailers -Learn more about All Free Clear at https://www.all-laundry.com/ -Use code "podcast" to get a year of Shipt for only $49 -Use code Welcome to the Party at https://www.omahasteaks.com/ -Head to https://www.quince.com/Welcometotheparty for free shipping and 365-day returns.

  18. Serena & Venus Are Back at Wimbledon?! Billie Jean King Spills the Tea

    Jun 30

    Serena & Venus Are Back at Wimbledon?! Billie Jean King Spills the Tea

    Wimbledon is here, and the Party People are going across the pond for a very proper tea party with Billie Jean King and Ilana Kloss. Abby and Julie kick things off with World Cup fever, breaking down the USMNT’s knockout-round path, Cape Verde’s historic run, Gotham FC’s Challenge Cup win, and the latest NWSL shakeups. Then it’s all things Wimbledon: Billie’s 65th straight trip to the tournament, the traditions that make it unlike any other Grand Slam, Ilana’s own Wimbledon history, and the stories only these two legends can tell. Plus, Serena and Venus Williams are back, and Billie and Ilana weigh in on what it really takes to return to the sport’s biggest stage in your 40s.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Instagram — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ TikTok — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Substack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.com Welcome to the Party Merch - https://welcometotheparty.voila.store    Keep the Party Going: Learn more about Easter Seals: https://www.easterseals.com/ Wimbledon Schedule: https://www.wimbledon.com/en_GB/scores/schedule Foudy’s Football Store: https://foudys.com and on social https://www.instagram.com/wearefoudys/ USA Special Olympics: https://2026specialolympicsusagames.org/   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

  19. E.R. Fightmaster & Katie Kershaw Take Over Welcome To The Party

    Jul 2

    E.R. Fightmaster & Katie Kershaw Take Over Welcome To The Party

    This week, Welcome to the Party gets a full Pride Month takeover as Abby Wambach and Julie Foudy are joined by Jockular’s E.R. Fightmaster and Katie Kershaw for a hilarious, heartfelt crossover episode about queering up the World Cup, the undeniable LGBTQ+ roots of women’s sports, and why the gayest team always wins. From rewriting FIFA rules with short shorts, “Are We Sure, Babe?” VAR reviews, and Brandi Carlile opening ceremonies, to honoring the queer athletes and fans who helped build women’s sports culture from the margins, this episode is equal parts chaos, comedy, and celebration. Plus, the group debates the gayest USWNT era, the 1999 sports-bra moment, WNBA Pride energy, Abby’s LA Sparks doppelgänger, Jockular’s Queer Madness bracket, and Julie’s official induction as “the gayest non-gay person” they know. It’s Pride, it’s soccer, it’s women’s sports, and yes, it’s absolutely for the gays.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — @welcometothepartyshow Instagram — @welcometothepartyshow TikTok — @welcometothepartyshow Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com Substack - https://welcometothepartyshow.substack.com Welcome to the Party Merch - https://welcometotheparty.voila.store    Keep the Party Going: Follow Jocular Here:https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/jockular/id1732760459 See Jocular’s Queer Madness Bracket: https://www.instagram.com/p/DWwKcilEjTo/?hl=en   Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC

  20. Rachel Entrekin is the First Woman To Win Cocodona 250 Ultramarathon

    May 21

    Rachel Entrekin is the First Woman To Win Cocodona 250 Ultramarathon

    This week on Welcome to the Party, Abby and Julie sit down with ultra marathon phenomenon Rachel Entrekin after her historic win at the Cocodona 250, where she became the first woman ever to win the entire field, beating every runner, male and female, across more than 250 brutal miles through the Arizona desert and mountains. Rachel opens up about the mental side of endurance, the self-doubt that crept in while leading the race for nearly 200 miles, and why ultra running has become less about winning and more about discovering who she is when things get hard. She talks candidly about therapy, body image, eating disorders, learning to trust herself without obsessing over data, and the surprising “vibes-based” mindset behind one of the greatest endurance performances the sport has ever seen. Before the interview, Abby and Julie catch up on the upcoming Netflix 99ers project, the Indigo Girls concert that had Abby scream-singing all night, and the emotional milestone of Tish finishing her freshman year. Then the Party Starter dives into the biggest women’s sports storylines heading into summer, from new women’s lacrosse, softball, and baseball leagues launching across the country to growing youth sports burnout and what parents can do to help kids actually enjoy sports again. Plus: the U.S. Women’s Open at Riviera, Ally House in Los Angeles, WNBA and NWSL summer storylines, and why women’s sports fans are heading into one of the biggest summers yet.   Follow @welcometothepartyshow on: YouTube — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Instagram — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ TikTok — ⁠@welcometothepartyshow⁠ Email — partypeoplequestions@gmail.com   Keep the Party Going: Reserve Your Spot at The Ally House - June 4, 2026 in Santa Monica, CA: https://www.ally.com/ally-house Why Do Girls Drop Out of Soccer? Complete the HERStoPLAY Survey The Women’s Lacrosse League The Women’s Pro Baseball League Professional Softball League The Athlete’s Unlimited Softball League Our Burnout Episode - The Youth Sports Problem No One Talks About⁠ Follow Rachel Entrekin Thank you to our sponsors: -Ally’s got you covered. Ally Bank, Member FDIC -Explore the new Peloton Cross Training Tread+ at onepeloton.com  https://www.onepeloton.com/ -Use code "podcast" to get a year of Shipt for only $49 -Get 10% off your first order sitewide with code WELCOMETOTHEPARTY at OSEAMalibu.com - Elevate your summer wardrobe at Quince.com/welcometotheparty

Billie Jean King on Apple