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.

Episodes

  1. 8H AGO

    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

  2. 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

  3. APR 28

    Episode 7: Draft Day

    Join Beth and Jenny as they cover a range of topics including the WNBA draft, NFL draft, and NFL Combine player stories. Jenny even makes a bold (crazy) prediction that she will run the 40-yd dash. Stay tuned! Takeaways WNBA and NFL draftsPlayer stories Chapters 00:00 WNBA Draft and Player Stories08:00 NFL Draft and Player Experiences18:28 Draft Anticipation and Season Excitement

    36 min

  4. APR 21

    Episode 6: Tournament Recaps

    Beth and Jenny cover a detailed recap of March Madness and the Masters, providing insights into the tournament outcomes and player performances. They also delve into the impact of the transfer portal and NIL on college sports, highlighting the challenges and opportunities presented by these developments. Takeaways March Madness Tournament RecapThe Masters Tournament Recap Chapters 00:00 March Madness Recap11:35 Masters Recap

    36 min

  5. APR 14

    Episode 5: Kicking It with Mollie Whitacre

    Ready to go from clueless to soccer connoisseur faster than a striker on a breakaway? Buckle up as we chat with Mollie Whitacre -- soccer state champion, Division I player, and The Pretend Pros first guest -- about the game’s ins and outs. Whether you're planning to watch the World Cup this year or just impress your friends with your offsides knowledge, this episode is packed with fun facts, strategic insights, and a whole lot of “a-ha” moments. In this episode:Mollie breaks down the roles of defenders, midfielders, and forwardsThe secrets behind the “offsides” rule and how it’s more nuanced than it looksInsights on how soccer players condition, including the beep testA peek into the soccer journey from walk-on to scholarship at Ohio UniversityHow international tournaments like the FIFA World Cup workThe story behind Mollie’s championship plaza and her team’s impressive high school legacyTimestamps:00:00 - Welcome to the episode with rookie hosts and our first-ever guest Mollie Whitacre 02:14 - Mollie’s high school soccer mastery and state championship feats 03:23 - College soccer journey from walk-on to star at Ohio University 08:02 - What exactly does a midfielder do? Insights from the field 10:01 - Soccer formations explained—think flexible basketball lineup strategies 15:26 - Conditioning, beep tests, and the fitness grind of a college athlete 17:42 - Demystifying offsides: The rule, the controversy, and how referees call it 22:40 - Spotting chances to shoot and recognizing real goal moments 23:51 - Playground fakery? How players fake injuries to buy time or strategize 26:43 - Match scoring, points systems, and the eternal debate on ties 27:49 - The pathway to World Cup stardom and the league hierarchy in the US and abroad 30:46 - The upcoming FIFA World Cup: format, qualifiers, and the men’s vs women’s tournaments 33:16 - How to enjoy your first soccer game—field markings, penalty areas, and what to look for 35:28 - The legendary statue of Mollie in championship plaza

    37 min

  6. APR 7

    Episode 4: Birdies & Bogeys

    The Masters is almost here and The Pretend Pros have THOUGHTS. Join Jenny and Beth as they dive into the world of golf with humor and heart. From Jenny's childhood golf adventures in her grandma's backyard to Beth’s wild story of how a corporate bracket contest nearly scored her tickets to the big tournament (hint, it involves Duke and UCONN), this episode is packed with laughs and insights. Discover the true meaning of a Career Grand Slam, hear about Tiger Woods' comeback (or lack thereof), and enjoy outrageous golf simulator stories. Whether you're a golf fanatic or just here for the fun stories, this episode will make you root for Gary Woodland's inspiring comeback and laugh at the absurdity of putt-putt outhouse holes. Perfect for sports fans, curious newcomers, or anyone who wants a good laugh. No golf attire required, just bring your sense of humor. P.S. Beth might start watching golf after this—or not.

    36 min

  7. MAR 31

    Episode 3: Women Can Ball

    Most NCAA fans are fixated on the men's bracket, but we can't forget about the magic happening on the women’s side. In this episode, Jennifer and Beth dive into the incredible stories shaping women’s college basketball and the WNBA. From a Cinderella Virginia team to stories of tattoos and family legacies, this is the deep-dive you didn’t know you needed. We break down key upsets like Virginia knocking off Georgia in overtime amidst Iowa’s sweltering arena, and spotlight players like Kymora Johnson, whose inspiring story and tattoo remind us that home isn’t just a place, it’s a feeling. We also highlight Audi Crooks’ monster 37-point game for Iowa State and a college star’s journey from small-town Indiana to the brink of WNBA stardom, all while acknowledging how far women’s sports have come in just a few short decades. Whether you’re a hardcore hoops fan, new to women’s sports, or just here for the epic tales, this episode serves up heart, humor, and a whole lot of game-changing moments.

    35 min

  8. MAR 24

    Episode 2: Busted Brackets

    Dive into the madness of March with Beth and Jenny as they unravel the hilarious, bizarre, and jaw-dropping tales behind the NCAA brackets. Think you know this tournament inside out? Prepare to be surprised as our hosts share amusing (and slightly embarrassing) truths about their picks, from shattered brackets to mythical mascot mishaps, all while delivering a dose of chaos and comedy. In this episode, our hosts take a look at their underdog selections and reveal the crazy stories that make college basketball so much more than just numbers. You'll discover how a street dog named Buddy became Queens’ unlikely mascot, why Miami’s swim team is sporting speedos in the stands, and the true origins of the mythical “Billiken” creature that’s been fueling St. Louis pride. This episode is a must-listen for college basketball enthusiasts, casual fans, and anyone who enjoys a good laugh while navigating the March Madness. Whether you're aiming for victory or just in it for the fun, these stories and laughs will keep your bracket-busting spirits high. Get ready to cheer, chuckle, and maybe even devise your next bracket strategy as we celebrate the most unpredictable and entertaining chaos in sports. Chapters:Episode 1 Fact ChecksMarch Madness Men's Underdog Bracket RecapFinal Four PredictionsClosing Thoughts

    18 min

  9. TRAILER

    Introduction

    Welcome to The Pretend Prod, the sports podcast where the takes are hot and the expertise is...questionable.

    1 min

  10. MAR 17

    Episode 1: We're Going Dancing

    We're going dancing -- and we don't mean salsa! This week we're talking about buzzer beaters, 3-point shots and the underdogs. That's right, it's March Madness time! Join us as we draft our Underdog Teams in this year's Men's NCAA College Basketball Tournament. We share our personal experiences with college basketball, our favorite teams and the excitement surrounding the tournament. In this episode: Introduction to your hosts & this podcastMarch Madness Kick-offThe Underdog DraftFun Facts about this year's tournament

    47 min

Trailer

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
    10
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Jennifer Hoffman