The Pretend Pros

Jennifer Hoffman

Welcome to The Pretend Pros, the sports podcast where the takes are hot and the expertise is...questionable. We're two die-hard fans breaking down weekly stories in sports, from March Madness and college rivalries to whatever interesting story catches our eyes. One of us might know what we're talking about...the other is just here for the chaos. This is The Pretend Pros -- certified fans, uncertified experts.

  1. 4d ago

    Episode 15: Set It & Forget It with Gracie Cagle

    Get ready to dive into the world of college volleyball with Gracie Cagle, the Texas-turned-University of Montana setter whose story is as inspiring as it is athletic. From high school standout to Big Sky star and potential pro overseas, she’s got the tips, tales, and terrific stats to share. In this episode:The role of a setter: the court quarterbackThe top rules and strategies you need to know about volleyball scoringBehind the scenes of college volleyball life: training, travel, and balancing schoolAdvice for young girls dreaming of spiking their way to college and beyond Timestamps:00:00 - Welcome to the game: Meet Gracie and her volleyball journey 02:45 - From a kid playing second grade to Big Sky setter of the year 04:22 - Libero, setter, and the evolution of her position: all about growth 05:06 - The temperament of a setter: calm, in control, and a leader on the court 06:09 - Communication is key: How setters keep the game moving smoothly 07:22 - Understanding rotations and formations like a volleyball ninja 08:02 - Moving around on the court: no front row or back row spot is safe! 09:43 - The art of passing, pulling back, and staying in the right place 10:37 - Power, athleticism, and the smash hits that make volleyball awesome 11:52 - Montana’s Big Sky Conference: rivals, travel, and loyal fans 13:00 - Deciding Montana over other schools: more than just the mountains 14:29 - How early did Gracie know college volleyball was her thing? 15:19 - Steady as she goes: consistent assists and stats that impress coaches 16:24 - The demanding schedule of a student-athlete: practice, travel, and schoolwork 20:41 - Nutrition, training, and staying in top shape — all part of the college grind 24:10 - What’s next? Pro volleyball dreams and overseas adventures 26:09 - The volleyball scene in the US and abroad: opportunities outside college 30:25 - Fan culture: cult or community? Montana fans know how to cheer 34:00 - Beach volleyball: sandy, tougher, and equally addictive 37:24 - Goals, dreams, and how to follow your volleyball passion 41:24 - Words of wisdom: Play with joy, and the rest will follow

    38 min

  2. Jun 16

    Episode 14: Cycling Adventures with Eric Stein

    Jenny may be on the injured reserve list this week, hence her celebrity sunglasses, but her and Beth still have a great episode for you. Join them as they sit down with Eric Stein, Indiana University alumni and cycling enthusiast, to talk about his adventures on a bike. This episode covers everything from Eric's challenging ride up Mount Mitchell in North Carolina to the legendary Charlotte charity ride, 24 Hours of Booty. Eric covers his most beautiful rides in Europe and Wyoming, group ride etiquette and safety, the difference between road and mountain biking, and the IU Little Five Hundred. Takeaways Cycling as a form of freedom and enjoymentThe physical and mental challenges of cycling and endurance sportsMost memorable cycling adventuresThe 24 Hours of Booty charity event and its impactBiking mishaps, safety, and group ride dynamicsThe history of the Little Five Hundred race at IU Chapters:[0:06] Introduction / Jenny's Injured Reserve List[2:12] IU Fan Culture and Football Fandom[9:01] Eric's Cycling Journey[15:50] Duathlons and Training Insights[19:28] Mount Mitchell Challenge[23:50] Memorable Rides and Adventures[26:48] Road vs. Mountain Biking[31:05] The 24 Hours of Booty Event[40:09] Group Riding Etiquette[50:57] Closing Thoughts and Farewell

    51 min

  3. Jun 9

    Episode 13: NFL Trades, NBA & NHL Playoffs & More Sports Stories

    Hold onto your jerseys because this episode is a wild ride through NFL trades, NBA finals banter, and epic ultra marathons — plus a dash of Serena’s comeback and some hilarious stadium hat switching. It’s sports talk served with a healthy dose of stories as told by fans and a sprinkle of actual stats. And remember: whether it's a hat, a stadium, or an ultra-long race, keep it sports, keep it funny, and never underestimate the power of a good laugh. In this episode:NFL trade turmoil including Miles Garrett’s big move and AJ Brown’s Patriots reunionNBA finals recap: Knick, Spurs, and the hilarious Villanova squadStanley Cup Finals excitementWomen’s sports spotlight: Serena’s return, WNBA surprises, and a 250 mile desert raceA humorous take on stadium hats, celebrity sightings, and bathroom logistics in ultra marathonsTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome to the sports chaos: NFL trades, NBA vibes, and Stanley Cup shoutouts01:32 - Browns mourn Miles Garrett’s move and the Rams’ Super Bowl gamble04:06 - AJ Brown swapped NFL drama and Odell Beckham Jr's Giants return07:00 - Russell Wilson's TV future and NFL trade deadline secrets11:12 - Meet Barry Wesley: the practice squad superman from Indiana13:14 - NBA Finals: Knicks, Spurs, and the Villanova reunion17:20 - San Antonio basketball culture23:31 - Women’s sports highlights including Serena’s big comeback32:40 - Desert endurance race: 250 miles, 56 hours, and dirt naps38:29 - Wrap-up: Cheers to women in sports

    39 min

  4. Jun 2

    Episode 12: Just Keep Running with Emily Mars Raymond

    Forget everything you think you know about running. Emily Mars Raymond, a former Ohio State cross-country star and nine-time Boston Marathon veteran, spills the secret sauce to running a 100-mile race. Spoiler alert, it involves Pringles and the art of lying to yourself to keep going. Whether you’re a casual jogger or just curious about why anyone would run 50 miles on purpose, this episode is a must-listen. Emily’s story is a fascinating journey from high school athlete to ultra-running warrior. She shares how she balances training, sometimes 60 miles a week, while working as a social worker at a hospital and raising three kids. Plus, she’s got expert tips on fueling the body, training, and which snacks make elite runners crush their goals. Ever wondered what mile 80 of a hundred miler feels like? Emily takes us there. We break down: the surprising team side of cross country, the real deal about qualifying for Boston, why running a Taco Bell race might just be your new thing, and what it’s like to go from a high schooler chasing flowers to a woman who’s still running competitively. She’s raced on hills, roads, and even through snow, proving that while runners might be a little crazy, they’re also some of the most inspiring folks you’ll ever meet. No matter if you’re considering your first 5K or dreaming of that elusive marathon medal, Emily’s story shows that running isn’t just a sport—it's a mindset, a community, and yes, a delicious snack-fueled adventure that anyone can start. She reminds us that the best part isn’t finishing first, it’s showing up for yourself, no matter how slow you are. Get ready to be motivated, entertained, and maybe convinced to lace up your shoes. Hit play and discover why this episode might just make you want to run a little...verrrrry slowly, perhaps, but run nonetheless.

    38 min

  5. May 26

    Episode 11: Sports Stories of the Week with Doug Morris

    Welcome to the latest episode of The Pretend Pros where chaos, comedy, and cluelessness collide. In this tongue-in-cheek episode, Beth and Jenny throw sports knowledge out the window and rely on their guest Doug Morris (aka, self-proclaimed executive producer) to hold the line. Spoiler: That line is pretty much nonexistent. From the Cavs and the NBA playoffs to the wildest baseball trends (yes, shirtless sections and mascots waving shirts like a mid-game dance party), they cover it all with a healthy dose of humor. Ever wondered about the secret to college softball pitchers throwing 80 mph or how a squirrel became the MVP in a baseball game? They've got you covered. You'll discover: the bizarre MLB trend of “tarps off” sections in baseball stadiums, how to wear a Rally Cap, a high schooler scoring millions in soccer, and the woman throwing 79 mph pitches in softball. Think you need in-depth analysis? Think again. This episode is perfect if you want nonstop laughs, surprising facts, and a reminder that sometimes, sports are just a really good excuse to have fun. Whether you're a die-hard fan or just here for the comedy, this episode guarantees smiles, laughter, and maybe even a new appreciation for sports you never understood.

    47 min

  6. May 19

    Episode 10: In the Penalty Box with David Danielewicz

    Most people think hockey is just skating fast and hitting hard — turns out, there’s a whole universe of rules, strategies, and behind-the-scenes action that could make even the most clueless fan into an expert overnight. Ever wondered what it’s really like to score a goal, break a stick, or survive a fight on ice? Prepare to become the MVP of hockey trivia after this episode. Jenny and Beth—your favorite rookies—bring in the ultimate insider, hockey coach and player David Danielewicz, who’s been mastering the game since the age of four in Buffalo and still plays for the Carolina Hurricanes Warriors. He shares hilarious stories from growing up playing the game, the different levels of hockey, and debates whether or not Jenny could score a goal on the ice. You’ll discover: How a kid who started with a dream of playing hockey ended up with a real trading cardThe secret “edges” figure skaters use that hockey players desperately need to learnWhy NHL players skate 17 minutes per game, and how linesmen clock an astonishing 8 miles on their skates each matchThe wild rules of fighting, the penalty box, and what really triggers a game ejectionThe ins and outs of hockey zone coverage, strategies, and how players switch from checking to scoringPlus, David’s tips for a rookie trying to score a goal—or even just staing upright on skates Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just hockey-curious, missing out on this episode is like leaving your helmet at home, you’re missing the essentials. Perfect for sports fans, aspiring players, or anyone who secretly wanted to know if hockey players really do lose teeth or if that’s just a myth. This isn’t your average sports chat, it’s a crash course in the coolest, craziest sport on ice (literally). Hit play and get ready to score some knowledge points. Just remember, no backwards skating in the shootout! David Danielewicz is hockey coach and player, whose 25+ years of coaching, championship wins, and a surprisingly legit hockey trading card make him the guy who actually knows how the puck drops.

    47 min

  7. May 12

    Episode 9: Random Sports Talk

    This episode dives into the chaos and comedy that is Jenny and Beth. It includes stories from the NBA Playoffs, WNBA season openers, and even a preview of our special hockey guest that will be joining us in a future episode. From Cleveland’s nail-biting game to IU alma mater bragging rights, we uncover the crazy moments, surprising stats, and quirky traditions that makes sports so unpredictable, and hilarious. Plus, we chat about the underdog Buffalo Sabres’ 17-year drought and the intense thrill of a WNBA game that included higher scoring than an NBA game (yes, really). Perfect if you're a casual fan or a dedicated sports junkie craving some fresh, funny takes. No expertise needed, just come for the laughs, stay for the surprises, and maybe get a new appreciation for sports you never knew existed. Whatever team you root for, there’s a little chaos for everyone. And don’t worry, next week, we’re bringing in a hockey expert, so buckle up for some serious puck talk (or lack thereof). Until then, grab your favorite snack, settle in, and enjoy the most authentic sports banter you didn’t know you needed.

    50 min

  8. May 5

    Episode 8: The "Pretend" Combine

    When Jenny gets a wild idea in her head, you never know where it will lead. Case in point, a casual conversation about the NFL Combine and the 40-yard dash leads to The Pretend Pros hosting their very own "Pretend" Combine. Can Jenny run the 40-yard dash faster than Tom Brady or catch passes better than Travis Kelce? You'll find out in this week's episode. Spoiler alert: She's not planning to quit her day job...yet. Beth and Jenny discuss 40-yard dash records, share amusing stories related to the combine, and even get out on the football field to attempt some combine skills. Full of witty humor and sarcasm, this episode is sure to have you laughing out loud.

    22 min
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Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

Welcome to The Pretend Pros, the sports podcast where the takes are hot and the expertise is...questionable. We're two die-hard fans breaking down weekly stories in sports, from March Madness and college rivalries to whatever interesting story catches our eyes. One of us might know what we're talking about...the other is just here for the chaos. This is The Pretend Pros -- certified fans, uncertified experts.

Information

  • Creator
    Jennifer Hoffman
  • Years Active
    2K
  • Episodes
    16
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Jennifer Hoffman