Sidelined w/ Brooke Fletcher & Dani Klupenger podcast artwork

PODCAST · sports

Sidelined w/ Brooke Fletcher & Dani Klupenger

Sidelined is the sports podcast that finally gives women a space to talk about the game—without leaving behind everything else they love. Brooke Fletcher and Dani Klupenger have spent over a decade as sports broadcasters but they realized their conversations weren’t solely based on sports- they were about fashion, pop culture, beauty and even reality tv. They know they are not the only ones. If you’ve ever felt like an outsider or ‘sidelined’ in sports talk, this podcast is for you. Why should sports only be for the guys? It’s for the girls too!

  1. 53

    From Overseas Hoops to CEO: Taylor Burner’s Journey in Sports Marketing

    Brooke and Dani welcome Dani’s best friend from Stony Brook, Agency 3_2 founder and CEO Taylor Burner, for a deep dive into her journey through the sports marketing industry and the friendship that began on the basketball court in college. Taylor looks back on playing overseas in Israel, becoming an Israeli citizen, adjusting to life far from home for the first time, and the unforgettable experiences she had living and partying in Tel Aviv. As the conversation unfolds, Taylor details her rise from googling “jobs in sports” after moving back to Brooklyn to building stops at Nike Basketball and Game 7 before launching her own company, inspired by a line from Ice Cube. She also shares insight into talent management, negotiating deals, understanding self-worth in business, and working with stars like Andraya Carter, Sydney Carter, and A'ja Wilson while reflecting on some of the biggest events she’s helped bring to life across the sports world.

  2. 52

    Covering New York Sports, Balancing Family and Finding a Broadcasting Path with Michelle Margaux

    Michelle Margaux joins Brooke and Dani for a conversation that dives deep into the nonstop world of New York sports and the demands that come with covering it across multiple platforms. Michelle breaks down the Knicks’ playoff push, the Mets’ early-season struggles, and what it’s like juggling coverage of the Mets, Yankees, Knicks, and a nightly New York-focused sports show all at once. She also offers a behind-the-scenes perspective on how players adjust to the pressure of performing under the New York spotlight and what daily life looks like moving between stadiums like Citi Field and beyond. Beyond the game, Michelle opens up about her life away from the camera, including motherhood, marriage, and the challenge of balancing it all with an intense broadcasting schedule. She reflects on how advice from her father reshaped how she views time, priorities, and perspective both personally and professionally. Michelle also traces her path into sports broadcasting, talks about her deep love for baseball, evaluates the pros and cons of her many roles in the industry, and wraps things up with a rapid-fire segment that includes a surprising take on the most intimidating athlete she’s ever covered.

  3. 51

    Rafael Nadal, Breakups & Spring Cleaning

    Brooke and Dani bounce between continents to start the episode, swapping stories from San Diego and Spain before easing into a candid check-in on Brooke’s season and what might need a reset. From there, they shift to baseball, breaking down the White Sox’s recent surge. Dani also asks Brooke what it’s really like covering a series with a personal twist, as her husband, Padres infielder Jake Cronenworth, takes the field. The conversation then turns to a mix of pop culture and real-life moments, including the headlines around Klay Thompson and Megan Thee Stallion’s breakup, plus a debate on whether leaving a note after hitting someone’s car is truly non-negotiable. They preview the upcoming Rafael Nadal documentary, toss around ideas for which athletes deserve the next deep dive, and get into how reality TV can impact relationships. The episode wraps with behind-the-scenes stories of freezing on camera and a fun round of “Spring Cleaning,” where Brooke and Dani decide what stays and what goes.

  4. 50

    WNBA Draft Recap with Kalia Butler

    WCIU Chicago Sky reporter and LockedOnSports host Kalia Butler joins the show to break down the 2026 WNBA Draft and everything that came with it. She shares her reaction to UConn’s Azzi Fudd going No. 1 overall, weighs in on a record six UCLA players being selected, and discusses which teams, like the Washington Mystics, may have set themselves up best for the future. The conversation also dives into some of the biggest storylines around the league, including the Chicago Sky trading Angel Reese and the buzz surrounding the WNBA’s CBA deal. Kalia also reflects on her journey into sports media, offering insight into how she got her start and what led her to cover the Sky today.

  5. 49

    Monte Carlo, The Masters and Angel Reese Trade

    Brooke and Dani kick things off by catching up, with Brooke breaking down the chaos of the Padres’ wild finish and Dani sharing stories from her tennis adventures in Nice, France. The conversation rolls into the global stage as they react to the Monte-Carlo Masters and Carlos Alcaraz’s win before previewing the storylines to watch at the Masters Tournament this weekend. They also hit on NCAA Men's Basketball Tournament glory for the Michigan Wolverines men's basketball, the impact of Angel Reese being dealt from the Chicago Sky to the Atlanta Dream, and the buzz around the Portland Fire’s unique style of play. To close, Brooke and Dani dive into Munetaka Murakami’s growing social media presence and compare it to the rise of Alexandra Eala, highlighting how both athletes are navigating attention on and off the field.

  6. 48

    Final Four is set & April Fools' Day | Sidelined

    Brooke and Dani open with a personal catch-up, as Dani shares updates on renovating the home she plans to lease out, with help from her parents, while Brooke checks in on the early stages of the White Sox season and her initial takeaways. They also dive into the business side of sports, discussing Indiana Fever guard Lexie Hull launching a makeup brand tailored specifically for athletes and what it could mean for performance-driven beauty. From there, the conversation bounces between pop culture and sports, including the latest “Secret Lives of Mormons” and Bachelorette drama, a look back at the chaotic Duke–UConn March Madness finish, and a preview of the Final Four in Indianapolis. Dani also weighs her options for attending the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles, before they shift to golf with a look at Gary Woodland’s incredible journey. They wrap things up with April Fools’ Day prank stories, a lively tattoo debate, and a breakdown of a viral Miss Thailand pageant dance that’s making the rounds.

  7. 47

    Robbie Hummel Breaks Down the Madness

    Brooke and Dani kick things off with a fun intro that covers everything from Dani stepping into homeownership to the latest buzz at the Miami Open, including updates on Carlos Alcaraz, Coco Gauff, and Jannik Sinner. Brooke also sets the tone for baseball season, explaining why White Sox fans shouldn’t be hitting the panic button on Opening Day while giving a behind-the-scenes look at what her day actually looks like at the ballpark. Then, Robbie Hummel (NCAA, NBA Analyst) joins the show to break down the madness of March as the tournament heads from the Sweet 16 into the Elite Eight. He shares the most compelling storyline so far, what Illinois needs to make a deeper run, and how he balances calling games while keeping his Purdue ties in check under head coach Matt Painter. Hummel also dives into bracket chaos, working alongside Kevin Harlan, juggling college hoops with NBA duties, and previewing what should be a loaded Elite Eight slate.

  8. 46

    Inside March Madness with ESPN's Peter Burns

    ESPN SEC Network studio anchor Peter Burns joins the show to break down how to build the perfect March Madness bracket, offering quick-hit tips and strategy to help you navigate the chaos. He also dives into sleepers in the tournament, highlights a standout team outside the SEC, and gives his take on the intriguing first-round matchup between Kansas and St. John’s—plus, find out why he doesn't pick "cinderellas" anymore. The conversation shifts beyond the bracket as Peter talks Auburn basketball, Brooke's alma mater, shares stories from his journey through sports broadcasting, and opens up about a tweet he wishes he could take back. He also offers valuable advice for aspiring broadcasters and the lessons he’s learned along the way covering multiple sports at the highest level.

  9. 45

    Sophia Minnaert on midwest roots and the daily grind of covering baseball

    Sophia Minnaert joins Brooke and Dani to reflect on her journey covering the Milwaukee Brewers as she's at her 14th spring training as the team's reporter. She shares stories from growing up in Madison as the daughter of a coach, how that background shaped her approach to sports, and what it’s like covering the always entertaining Brewers manager Pat Murphy. Minnaert also talks about the advantages of being bilingual in baseball and recalls the moment former Brewers star Carlos Gómez realized she spoke Spanish. The conversation looks back on eight seasons covering one of the most successful stretches in Brewers history, how she builds trust with players during a grueling 162-game schedule, the cities she enjoys most on the MLB circuit, and why the World Baseball Classic always brings extra excitement around the clubhouse.

  10. 44

    U.S. Olympian Jackie Wiles on Winning Bronze and competing alongside Lindsey Vonn

    Olympic bronze medalist Jackie Wiles joins the show for a candid conversation about capturing bronze in the inaugural women’s Alpine combined event and why this moment felt different from the rest. She opens up about competing in her fourth Olympic Games, discovering her confidence at the right time, and growing up in the same hometown as Dani. Jackie reflects on realizing she had a special talent for skiing and the tough decision to choose it over basketball. The conversation goes far beyond the podium. Wiles shares the harrowing story of surviving a plane crash last year. She gives a behind-the-scenes look at life during the games, from staying in a hotel instead of the Olympic Village to bonding with teammates over Catan and celebrating Breezy Johnson’s engagement. She also reflects on being mentored by Lindsey Vonn and what it meant to compete alongside her one final time before sharing what’s next in her career.

  11. 43

    Gold Medals, the Return of Baseball, and Punch the Monkey

    Brooke and Dani kick off the show with a whirlwind of Olympic storylines, from Team USA women’s hockey capturing gold to Alysa Liu making history as the first American woman to win Olympic singles gold since 2002. They dive into how Liu’s comeback and personality won over fans everywhere, break down Ilia Malinin’s up-and-down Olympic ride, and react to the latest buzz surrounding rumored hyaluronic acid injections. From there, the conversation shifts across the sports landscape, including Kris Bryant’s injury concerns and uncertain baseball future, the betting scandal involving Emmanuel Clase, and what’s next for the Chicago Bears stadium plans in Arlington Heights or even Indiana. Brooke and Dani also touch on college basketball, ESPN’s new women-focused Sunday programming spotlighting the WNBA and NWSL, plus a touching detour into Japan’s viral “Punch the Monkey” moment.

  12. 42

    Journey from UNC to Pro Sports with Kendra Douglas

    Kendra joins the show to share her journey to becoming a reporter, from her time at North Carolina, a university that holds deep meaning for her family, to competing in track and field. She also takes listeners behind the scenes of life as an NBA sideline reporter, including balancing social media with the demands of the job and how covering a rebuilding team elevated her craft. Kendra revisits her viral interview moment with former NFL quarterback Andrew Luck and closes with her thoughts on the NBA’s biggest storylines, from trade deadline fallout to All-Star Weekend buzz.

  13. 41

    Australian Open Recap, Super Bowl Preview and Winter Olympic' Fits

    Brooke and Dani kick things off with a recap of SoxFest before breaking down a historic Australian Open final, as Carlos Alcaraz defeats Novak Djokovic to complete the career Grand Slam, and look ahead to the Super Bowl matchup between the Seattle Seahawks and New England Patriots. The conversation continues with Super Bowl plans, including thoughts on Bad Bunny's halftime show and what to expect from this year’s commercials. Brooke and Dani also spotlight National Girls & Women in Sports Day, react to newly released Olympic kits ahead of the Winter Games, and wrap up by turning their attention to baseball as spring training approaches and Brooke prepares for her trip to Arizona.

  14. 40

    Drake Maye’s Rise, Vrabel’s Impact, and a Patriots Super Bowl Run

    Alexandra Francisco joins the show for an inside look at the New England Patriots’ run to the Super Bowl and what it’s like covering one of the league’s hottest teams. She shares perspective on the AFC Champion Patriots, the impact of head coach Mike Vrabel, and the evolution of quarterback Drake Maye as he continues his rapid rise on the biggest stage. The conversation also highlights the human side of the season, from Rhamondre Stevenson’s resilience to inspirational stories within the organization that helped define this championship run. Alexandra weighs in on pop-culture moments surrounding the team, reflects on growing up in New England and how sports shaped her career, and offers insight into preparing for Super Bowl week as a team reporter. The episode wraps with thoughts on Bill Belichick’s legacy and why now might be the perfect time to jump on the Patriots bandwagon.

  15. 39

    CFP Championship, NFL Shakeups & Beckham Family Drama

    Brooke and Dani open the show with a recap of the College Football Playoff National Championship, breaking down Indiana’s win behind Fernando Mendoza and the postgame backlash involving Miami quarterback Carson Beck. The conversation then shifts to the Australian Open for early tournament updates and a look at the fashion making waves on and off the court. From there, the duo dives into pop-culture headlines, unpacking the latest Beckham family drama and why it’s grabbing attention beyond the sports world. The episode continues with a rundown of the latest NFL news, including the Bears’ playoff loss to the Rams, quarterback changes in Denver with Bo Nix sidelined and Jarrett Stidham stepping in, along with early NFL Honors buzz and coaching carousel chatter. The show wraps with a major MLB headline as the White Sox trade Luis Robert Jr. to the Mets and what it means moving forward.

  16. 38

    Australian Open, Golden Globes, and NFL Coaching Carousel

    Brooke and Dani open the show by diving into the Australian Open spotlight, starting with amateurs getting a rare crack at the pros and a look at the tournament’s early favorites, including how Novak Djokovic fits into the title picture. The conversation then moves beyond the courts with a recap of the Golden Globes and a breakdown of the hit show Heated Rivalry. The episode keeps rolling with a pulse check on the NFL coaching carousel and a closer look at the Rams vs. Bears divisional playoff matchup, digging into what could swing the game. Brooke and Dani also weigh in on the viral “2016” social media trend, preview the College Football Playoff National Championship between Indiana and Miami, and close things out with thoughts from around the college basketball world.

  17. 37

    CFB Playoffs, NFL Playoffs & 2025 Recap

    In this episode, Brooke and Dani kick things off reflecting on the holidays and sharing their goals heading into 2026. The conversation then turns to college football, as they break down a wild College Football Playoff quarterfinal round and look ahead to what’s shaping up to be a must-watch semifinal slate. From there, Brooke and Dani recap their fantasy football seasons and preview the NFL playoffs, including which teams and storylines have their attention. They also react to the coaching shakeups and what those moves could mean going forward. To wrap things up, the duo looks back on 2025 with their favorite sports moments, trends, TikTok sounds, TV shows, and more!

  18. 36

    Balancing Motherhood and the Mic with Ashley ShahAhmadi

    Ashley ShahAhmadi of NBA on NBC joins Brooke Fletcher and Dani Klupenger for a wide-ranging conversation on life, career, and the realities of sports broadcasting. Ashley reflects on her early days in the industry, the importance of networking in college sports, and how her journey led her to the national stage. She also looks back on her time as a sideline reporter with the Charlotte Hornets and discusses the shift from regional coverage to a national role. The conversation dives deeper into the personal side of the job, including motherhood, long-distance relationships, and how Ashley balances reporting life with being a mom. She opens up about handling tough moments with players and coaches, shares the story behind her viral moment at last year’s SEC Championship Game, and offers insight into what it really takes to succeed in today’s sports media landscape.

  19. 35

    Lane Kiffin to LSU & Heisman Contenders with Nicole Auerbach

    Lane Kiffin, Heisman favorites, coaching vacancies, and LinkedIn pages, Nicole Auerbach joins us to break down the latest in college football. She dives into the Heisman conversation, goes behind the scenes at schools with top contenders, and reacts to Fernando Mendoza’s surprising LinkedIn page. Plus, Nicole weighs in on the Erin Andrews situation and shares how her bigger role in coverage has changed her life, delivering stories, insights, and moments every college football fan will want to hear.

  20. 34

    Big Ten battles, Tennis updates and meeting Giuliana Rancic

    Brooke and Dani cover it all—from football, tennis, and TV life to holidays and heated rivalries. They recap Sidelined Live, talk the whirlwind of football season, and share behind-the-scenes stories on traveling with TV crews. Dani breaks down her tennis world updates, while Brooke brings the Big Ten heat heading into Michigan–Ohio State. Plus: Super Bowl week nostalgia, holiday traditions, Thanksgiving food takes, Brooke’s first dinner party, and her story about meeting Giuliana Rancic.

  21. 33

    Sidelined LIVE! with Kylen Mills

    Brooke and Dani are joined by broadcaster and Chicago native Kylen Mills for a special live event inside the White Sox clubhouse at Guaranteed Rate Field. Kylen reflects on how her passion for sports broadcasting first took shape, her journey through local news, and the lessons she learned along the way. Brooke shares her unexpected story of auditioning for MTV’s TRL, while Dani talks about her experience as the Clippers’ in-arena host. Together, the group dives into the grind of building a career in sports media, the highs and lows of life behind the mic, and what it really takes to find balance and keep moving forward in an ever-evolving industry. 

  22. 32

    How Kirsten Watson Built a Career Across the NFL, NBA & MLB

    Brooke and Dani are joined by Dodgers on-field reporter Kirsten Watson, who reflects on an unforgettable Dodgers World Series run, the emotional roller coaster of Game 7, the championship parade, and life in the offseason. Kirsten walks through her unique path from college volleyball to ESPN, the NFL, the WNBA, and ultimately the Dodgers — plus how pageants, fashion, and travel shaped her journey. The group also talks work-life balance, career goals, and what comes next in a fast-changing sports media landscape.

  23. 31

    Building a Career in Beauty & Broadcasting

    Brooke and Dani pull back the curtain on what really happens behind the camera with two pros who make the stars shine — celebrity makeup artists Amy De La Rosa and Jessica Marie. From their starts in retail to working with major TV networks and Hollywood talent, Amy and Jessica share how they broke into the industry, what it takes to thrive on set, and why confidence and calm matter as much as skill. They dish on career advice, on-air makeup myths, and the small details that make a big difference for anyone working in sports, entertainment, or media. Plus tips for glowing on camera, negotiating your worth, and some fun Halloween inspiration to wrap it up.

  24. 30

    Sideline CHAOS & Best College Stadiums | NBA Opening Night Reactions

    Brooke and Dani swap sideline interview stories — from unexpected walk-offs to guests answering phone calls mid-hit — and break down what it takes to stay composed when the chaos hits live TV. Then, they shift to NBA Opening Night and the nostalgia of basketball’s return to NBC, debating the new “heave rule” and early season storylines. Plus, the duo reacts to The Athletic’s Top 25 college football stadiums, sharing their favorite game-day atmospheres and why LSU at night is truly unmatched. And to close it out, Dani previews her upcoming work trip through Europe!

  25. 29

    Penn State Fallout, Taylor Swift Takes & Pilates Pain

    It’s a cozy catch-up on Sideline! Brooke Fletcher and Dani K talk slowing down, catching up on sleep, and why “binge cheating” on a show might be relationship sabotage. From Halloween plans and fall fashion to Angel Reese hitting the Victoria’s Secret runway, Brooke’s Maryland trip, and trying Pilates for the first time — it’s all laughs, vibes, and a little sports talk to wrap things up.

  26. 28

    Cam Smith on Chicago Pride, Family, and Finding His Dream Job

    Brooke and Dani kick off a cozy, fall-themed episode of Sideline with Halloween decor, baseball heartbreak, and a special reunion guest — Chicago native and new Bulls Pre & Postgame Live host, Cam Smith. From growing up on the West Side to playing college hoops under Matt Painter, Cam shares his incredible journey to landing his dream job with CHSN. He opens up about patience, family, faith, and Chicago pride, and brings his signature mix of heart and humor with stories about basketball, music, and life at home as a dad of two. The crew also plays “Hot Take or Hall of Fame,” covering hoops debates, sports movies, and yes — ketchup on hot dogs.

  27. 27

    A Baseball Home Divided, True Life of Tennis Pros, and The Real MVPs on Set

    On the latest episode of Sidelined - Brooke shares what it was like covering White Sox–Padres while her husband was on the field for the other team — a rare collision of work and home. Dani pulls back the curtain on the grind of tennis pros, from travel chaos to why the “off-season” barely exists. And both give long overdue credit to the real MVPs of every broadcast: the runners who make it all possible.

  28. 26

    Going National with Yahoo! Sports MLB Insider Russell Dorsey

    Brooke and Dani welcome their longtime friend and Yahoo! Sports MLB Insider Russell Dorsey to Sidelined. Russ shares how he carved a path as an MLB insider, the grind of breaking news, and the balance between networking and building true relationships. Then, they look back at their days together in Chicago under Bally Sports and debate how the industry is shifting toward influencers and an appetite for viral content. Plus, Russ gives insight into the MLB postseason picture and we figure out the best times to snap a selfie.

  29. 25

    US Open Drama, Trouble for Belichick, and Labubu-Mania

    Brooke Fletcher and Dani Klupenger are back on Sideline with a little lake life and a lot of sports. Brooke recaps Week 1 on the college gridiron from Eugene—mascot-head chaos included—and a full-circle Dante Moore moment. Dani compares lake vs. beach life and explains the Jeep “ducking” phenomenon Brooke stumbled into. The US Open takes center court: Naomi’s surge, Coco’s pressure, the Townsend–Ostapenko dust-up, and why Sinner vs. Alcaraz feels inevitable. Then it’s NFL kickoff: Micah Parsons’ shock move, Lions hype, Bears’ Caleb era, Bills-Ravens, and a deliciously petty Jets-Steelers angle.

  30. 24

    Gridiron to Grapes: Will Blackmon’s Journey from NFL Football to Fine Wine

    NFL champion Will Blackmon joins Dani and Brooke to share stories from his NFL journey—from being recruited out of Rhode Island to navigating the Favre/Rodgers era in Green Bay and winning a ring with the Giants. He also explains how Charles Woodson inspired his love of wine, why Champagne is always his go-to, and what it’s like running his own label, Blackmon Cellars. Plus, Will opens up about his love-hate with fantasy football and makes a bold Super Bowl prediction.

  31. 23

    Baseball for Baddies: Kait Maniscalco on Changing the Game for Women

    Brooke and Dani welcome Kait Maniscalco, creator of Baseball for Baddies, for a lively conversation about making baseball more inclusive for women and casual fans. Kait shares how she turned a TikTok side project into a growing sports brand, her approach to humanizing athletes, and the importance of balancing analytics with the “eye test.” They dive into game-day fashion dos and don’ts, the realities of sports content creation, and why creating a safe space for women matters.

  32. 22

    Networking with Football Minds in LA & The New U.S. Open Dating Show

    On this episode of Sidelined, Brooke and Dani catch up in a lively, wide-ranging episode covering everything from Fox Sports’ behind-the-scenes football seminar to a quirky new US Open dating show. They swap stories about meeting sports legends, dish on tennis traditions with a fresh perspective, and debate the wildest fantasy football punishments they’ve seen. The conversation also touches on stadium wish lists, Brooke’s exciting new home in San Diego, and the surprising return of Hannah Montana. It’s part sports talk, part life update, and all good vibes.

  33. 21

    WNBA Evolution with Annie Costabile: Expansion, CBA Talks, and Player Safety

    Brooke Fletcher and Dani Klupenger are joined by Annie Costabile of Front Office Sports for a jam-packed conversation on all things WNBA. From the WNBA's plan for expansion to breaking down what’s driving the league’s growth and the real story behind those “Pay Us What You Owe Us” shirts. The group also unpacks the upcoming CBA negotiations, Caitlin Clark’s recent stalker incident, and why player safety has never been more important. Plus, Annie names her favorite under-the-radar WNBA stars and compares life in Chicago vs. her new world in New York City — food, fashion, and all.

  34. 20

    Anisimova’s Redemption, Ilona’s Impact, and Love Island Team Hoopers

    On this episode of Sideline, Brooke Fletcher and Dani Klupenger dive into their Fourth of July festivities, including beach parties, boating trips, and Brooke’s behind-the-scenes NASCAR experience. Dani shares insights on Amanda Anisimova’s inspiring Wimbledon run and why American tennis is having a moment. The two also discuss Ben Shelton and Trinity Rodman’s rising star couple status, the mental toll of athletic identity, and Love Island's unexpected emotional depth.

  35. 19

    WAGs of Wimbledon, White Sox Trade Buzz & NASCAR Street Race

    It’s a full catch-up sesh on this week’s Sideline as Brooke Fletcher and Dani Klupenger reunite after some travel and time off. From Dani’s new beach volleyball league and Brooke’s ongoing closet organization mission to their shared nostalgia over early-2000s hip-hop. The duo dives deep into the latest on the White Sox, Coco Gauff’s Wimbledon struggles, the tennis WAG influencer economy, and why Detroit deserves more respect. Plus, NASCAR takes over Chicago, and the WNBA expands again!

  36. 18

    Danny Graves Talks Savannah Bananas, MLB Clubhouse Life, and Boy Band Fame

    Baseball stories, shirtless TV appearances, boy bands, and Bert Kreischer?! Danny Graves joins Brooke and Dani live from the College World Series in Omaha and delivers an all-time performance—no mound required. The Reds Hall of Famer recounts pitching for the Savannah Bananas (in the same clothes for days), mixing it up with fans in Cincinnati, and what he really thought about Jessica Simpson. Plus, wild MLB clubhouse stories, motorcycle gang memories with Ryan Dempster, and a surprise 98 Degrees connection you won’t believe.

  37. 17

    Lauren Jbara Talks Thyroid Surgery, TNT NBA Coverage & Newlywed Life

    TNT & NBATV's Lauren Jbara joins the show for an inspiring and wide-ranging conversation about her whirlwind year—from navigating a thyroid surgery scare to covering some of the biggest events in sports. She shares behind-the-scenes stories from the NBA Playoffs, what it’s really like interviewing legends like Steph Curry, and how she’s balanced her rising national TV career with newlywed life. Plus: tips on moving to a new city, building friendships as an adult, and must-have beauty products that actually last.

  38. 16

    Summer House at Citi Field, Brett Favre Fallout & Who's the Next Nadal?

    Brooke Fletcher and Dani Klupenger are back for a good old-fashioned catch-up. Brooke reflects on her recent trip to NYC—including a surprise Summer House sighting at Citi Field—while Dani opens up about much-needed R&R after her Europe whirlwind. The two dive into the grind of life on the road, the realities of being a woman in sports media, and an eye-opening conversation about the Brett Favre documentary. Plus, tennis talk honoring Rafa Nadal, reality TV recs, and Dani’s unexpected home break-in story.

  39. 15

    Jen Lada’s Rise in Sports Media and Her Powerful Storytelling at ESPN

    Emmy Award winner and ESPN College Gameday's Jen Lada joins the show to reflect on her career journey—from working midnight shifts in Chicago to becoming a vital part of College GameDay. Jen shares what it’s like to report on emotional stories, how she finds her balance in a demanding industry, and what it means to be an authentic voice in sports media. She talks about the highs and lows of storytelling, her favorite campus traditions, behind-the-scenes anecdotes from ESPN, and the emotional weight of covering real human moments in sports. Plus, hear her thoughts on working alongside Nick Saban, Lee Corso, and Pat McAfee, and what’s next for one of the most respected voices in the business.

  40. 14

    Lauren Shehadi on Her Rise in Broadcasting and Life at MLB Network

    This week on Sideline, Brooke and Dani are joined by one of the most familiar faces in baseball broadcasting — Lauren Shehadi of MLB Network. From sending out 100 VHS tapes to breaking down playoff moments on national television, Lauren shares her incredible journey through sports media. She talks about the nerves that never go away, why preparation is everything, and how authenticity has shaped her on-air success. The conversation dives into her prep process for March Madness, the balance of social media and privacy, and the art of asking the right question — even when you're live in front of millions. Plus, cereal hot takes, favorite stadiums, and what it really feels like to mess up on air. This one is full of insight, laughs, and real talk from a broadcasting pro.

  41. 13

    European Blackouts, Met Gala Fits, and Baseball Rain Delays

    From a Vatican Conclave in Rome to a power outage across Europe, Dani Klupenger has been at the heart of historic moments—while Brooke Fletcher wraps up her 4-game visit to Kansas City. The two catch up across time zones to swap wild travel stories, debate the Met Gala’s best (and worst) looks, and talk about how sports leagues are stepping up their player marketing game—from MLB’s new partnership with Boardroom to tennis’ global media surge. Plus: Brooke’s birthday plans, Dani’s $26 spray tan, and giving Coco Gauff her flowers

  42. 12

    Emerging Tennis Stars and Falling Down NFL Draft Boards

    Join Brooke and Dani on this episode of Sidelined as Dani kicks off her month long work trip. First stop? Madrid, Spain! Dani and Brooke give us their travel hacks and essentials when away from home. We also get into the tennis scene as some veterans seem to be struggling while there is young talent emerging. And finally we talk about the value of running backs, Shedeur Sanders' landing spot, and the history of QB's falling down draft boards.

  43. 11

    ESPN's Kris Budden on Iamaleava, NILs, & her broadcasting journey

    This week on Sideline, Brooke and Dani discuss Dani's Monte Carlo trip and upcoming travels, necessities for a month-long European adventure, and the explosive situation surrounding Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava and NIL deals. They're joined by ESPN & SiriusXM's Kris Budden, who shares insights on Iamaleava's departure, her own career journey balancing family and a demanding job, and advice for aspiring broadcasters. It's a dynamic conversation on the evolving world of college sports and the personal sacrifices needed to succeed in the broadcasting industry.

  44. 10

    Loyola HC Drew Valentine's journey though basketball and fatherhood

    On this episode of Sidelined, Brooke and Dani speak with Loyola Chicago Head Coach Drew Valentine! We delve deep into Drew's inspiring journey, from his Lansing, Michigan roots to his time under coaching legends Tom Izzo and Greg Kampe. We discuss Loyola Chicago's impressive season, their deep NIT run, and the unique challenges and triumphs of navigating the modern landscape of college basketball, including NIL and the transfer portal. Drew also shares how fatherhood has shaped his coaching philosophy. 

  45. 9

    Brooke's Path from Pageants to Broadcasting

    On this episode of Sidelined, Dani talks about traveling for tennis tournaments and the mental bandwidth it takes to cover sports. Then we dive into the life and career of Brooke Fletcher. We get into her first day as the White Sox Reporter on Opening Day of the MLB season and the challenges of getting through a broadcast. We then get into Brooke's time competing in Miss Georgia Teen USA and Miss Georgia. Her spark for reporting at Auburn University, to ESPN, New York, Fox Sports, to The Rally!

  46. 8

    Taylor McGregor's Journey Through Life as a Sports Broadcaster

    Join Brooke Fletcher and Dani Klupenger on Sideline for an unforgettable episode featuring Taylor McGregor, Chicago Cubs reporter and ESPN college football correspondent! We dive deep into Taylor's incredible experience covering the Cubs-Dodgers series in Tokyo. Hear firsthand accounts of Shohei Ohtani's legendary status in Japan, the unique cultural differences, and the surprising realities of ticket pricing. Beyond Tokyo, Taylor shares insightful reflections on the challenges and rewards of being a woman in sports broadcasting, offering invaluable career advice for aspiring professionals. We discuss the importance of work-life balance, building authentic friendships in a competitive industry, and the surprising similarities between navigating the world of sports and the world of dating! This episode is filled with laughter, heartfelt moments, and wisdom you won't want to miss.

  47. 7

    Tournament Takes, Brooke Meets Bo, and the Miami Open Tea

    On the latest episode of Sidelined, Brooke and Dani go over their brackets, upsets to watch, and one team manager who is landing NIL deals of his own. Brooke recaps here recent encounter with a two-sport legend at Camelback Ranch. Dani brings us the latest from the Miami Open including the latest couple to hard launch on the tennis scene. Also Scottie Scheffler's dinner menu and Brooke's preparation for her color commentator debut in the booth for a White Sox spring training matchup. 

  48. 6

    March Madness Refresher & Major Moves in the NFL

    This week on Sideline, Brooke and Dani discuss the NFL's wild free agency, including Justin Fields' move to the Jets and DK Metcalf's return to Russell Wilson.  Dani breaks down March Madness, explaining key terms and offering bracket tips. We celebrate women's college basketball stars Hailey Van Lith and Dawn Staley, spill the tea on celebrity sightings, and share some exciting pregnancy announcements!  Get ready for an action-packed episode!

  49. 5

    Fit Checks, Tennis Prep, & Cooper Flagg's Big Decision

    On the latest episode of Sidelined, Brooke and Dani bring you their favorite looks from the red carpet at The Oscars and which athletes turned heads. Also, Dani breaks down Serena Williams venture into WNBA ownership and how it impacts the league. We then preview the upcoming tennis season and the possibility of Cooper Flagg staying at Duke for another year! 

  50. 4

    Combine Chaos & Reality TV with Joshua Perry

    Join Brooke Fletcher and Dani Klupenger on Sidelined as they chat with Ohio State National Champion and former NFL linebacker,  Joshua Perry! This episode is a wild ride covering Joshua's NFL Combine experience, the controversies of NIL deals and the transfer portal in college football, and his surprising love for reality TV (Real Housewives, anyone?). We also discuss Dani's new brunette look and Brooke's experience reporting on a game where her husband was across the diamond. Get ready for laughs, insightful sports commentary, and a healthy dose of reality TV gossip!

Type above to search every episode's transcript for a word or phrase. Matches are scoped to this podcast.

Searching…

We're indexing this podcast's transcripts for the first time — this can take a minute or two. We'll show results as soon as they're ready.

No matches for "" in this podcast's transcripts.

Showing of matches

No topics indexed yet for this podcast.

Loading reviews...

ABOUT THIS SHOW

Sidelined is the sports podcast that finally gives women a space to talk about the game—without leaving behind everything else they love. Brooke Fletcher and Dani Klupenger have spent over a decade as sports broadcasters but they realized their conversations weren’t solely based on sports- they were about fashion, pop culture, beauty and even reality tv. They know they are not the only ones. If you’ve ever felt like an outsider or ‘sidelined’ in sports talk, this podcast is for you. Why should sports only be for the guys? It’s for the girls too!

HOSTED BY

Chicago Sports Network

Frequently Asked Questions

How many episodes does Sidelined w/ Brooke Fletcher & Dani Klupenger have?

Sidelined w/ Brooke Fletcher & Dani Klupenger currently has 50 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.

What is Sidelined w/ Brooke Fletcher & Dani Klupenger about?

Sidelined is the sports podcast that finally gives women a space to talk about the game—without leaving behind everything else they love. Brooke Fletcher and Dani Klupenger have spent over a decade as sports broadcasters but they realized their conversations weren’t solely based on sports- they...

How often does Sidelined w/ Brooke Fletcher & Dani Klupenger release new episodes?

Sidelined w/ Brooke Fletcher & Dani Klupenger has 50 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.

Where can I listen to Sidelined w/ Brooke Fletcher & Dani Klupenger?

You can listen to Sidelined w/ Brooke Fletcher & Dani Klupenger on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.

Who hosts Sidelined w/ Brooke Fletcher & Dani Klupenger?

Sidelined w/ Brooke Fletcher & Dani Klupenger is created and hosted by Chicago Sports Network.
URL copied to clipboard!