The Women's Soccer Podcast

In today's episode, LDG breaks down the trio of teams, that among the early leaders in the NWSL season, have proven themselves to be above the rest: the Portland Thorns, Washington Spirit, and San Diego Wave.On the surface, these teams are delivering good performances through victories and points, but what makes their approach unique is the method by which they are achieving such success. In this episode, LDG examines the various identities that are emerging among the league leaders, including the new balance found in Portland, the offensive fireworks provided by Washington, and the defensive organization of San Diego.LDG explores the tactics behind these clubs, including the key players and statistics contributing to their current successes, and examine the reason for their emergence as potential standard-bearers of the NWSL. However, the overarching question here remains: is this the dawn of a new era, or just the form of the early season period?LDG digs deep into what has been motivating each team beyond mere results. In the case of Portland, it is the development of their midfield players as well as a tactical approach to attack that is more fluid and adaptable than ever before. As for Washington, it is the pairing of world-class athletes with an extremely fast-paced game that utilizes its vertical strength to generate high-quality scoring opportunities. Lastly, it is the tactical cohesion of San Diego’s defense and ball control that makes them a nightmare for any opponent looking to find a way past them.Thank you for listening! Remember to follow us wherever you get your podcasts, on Instagram (@the_womens_soccer_podcast) and Bluesky (@thewomenssoccerpod.bsky.social). In addition, leave a 5-star review and tell all your friends about our show!

In this episode, I am so excited to talk with Sporting Jacksonville and USWNT U-20 forward Ashlyn Puerta, who is currently leading the Gainbridge Super League golden boot race.A rising force in the professional game, Ashlyn's made an immediate impact in her first season at Sporting Jacksonville, quickly establishing herself as one of the most dangerous attacking players in the Gainbridge Super League. From a standout youth career that included top academy performances, early national team involvement, and exposure to elite training environments, her path to the professional level has been defined by constant challenges and adaptation at every stage.Ashlyn reflects on her earliest soccer memories, the moments that shaped her development, and how she built the mindset needed to transition from youth standout to professional goalscorer. Ashlyn also breaks down her decision to forgo the traditional college route in favor of joining an expansion project, walking through what ultimately made Sporting Jacksonville the right fit at a pivotal moment in her career. Now a key figure in the club’s early success, she discusses her adjustment to the professional game, playing in front of growing home crowds, and what it means to be part of a team building its identity from the ground up.The conversation closes with reflections on her goals for the future, both short-term and long-term, as she continues her breakout season and looks ahead to what’s next in her career.Thank you for listening! Remember to follow us wherever you get your podcasts, on Instagram (@the_womens_soccer_podcast) and Bluesky (@thewomenssoccerpod.bsky.social). In addition, leave a 5-star review and tell all your friends about our show!

Fresh off one of the most decorated collegiate seasons in the country, rising defender Kolo Suliafu gave her first-ever interview as a professional in an exclusive and in-depth conversation with LDG.Kolo gives a glimpse into the path that led her to reach a professional level of play. Beginning with childhood memories of playing soccer and being a standout at high school all the way to deciding to join University of Washington and making history by taking the Huskies to an Elite Eight appearance, Kolo shares stories of winning Big Ten Defender of the Year and All-American awards, creating the winning mindset that she is bringing to KC.Kolo brings listeners behinds the scenes access into what it is like becoming part of Kansas City Current in its new phase, the journey of a rookie navigating a post-draft ecosystem, what made Kansas City the most appealing project to start her professional career, and her experience in her first-ever professional preseason being tasked by achieving the club's lofty goals.Lastly, Kolo chats about her initial days in Kansas City, the elite amenities of playing for the Current (dedicated stadium and training facilities,) the message she wants to convey to fans, and the objectives/staples on her vision board for 2026 and beyond.Thank you for listening! Remember to follow us wherever you get your podcasts, on Instagram (@the_womens_soccer_podcast) and Bluesky (@thewomenssoccerpod.bsky.social). In addition, leave a 5-star review and tell all your friends about our show!

In this episode, LDG looks over Racing Louisville FC's current roster and gives a complete preview of how the 2023 season will go for them. This is a must-listen episode if you want to have an idea of how Racing Louisville FC will do in the 2023 NWSL season, as we go over everything from the style of play to the projected starting 11 to the most underrated players on the roster to FIFA Ratings! In our Instagram comments, tell us how you think Racing Louisville FC will do. Also, talk about your favorite Racing Louisville FC player. Thank you for listening, and remember to follow us wherever you get your podcasts and on Instagram @the_womens_soccer_podcast.

In this episode, host LDG goes over the Gotham FC vs. Angel City FC game that he attended. Not all of it was about on the field, as pregame he met some exceptional people in the world of women's soccer. He also thanks his fans, the ones from the beginning and those who have joined along the way. Thank you for listening to this episode, and remember to follow us wherever you get your podcasts and on Instagram @the_womens_soccer_podcast!