WOMENZSPORTS presents Alice’s Soapbox is a brand new podcast showcasing women’s sports across Aotearoa New Zealand.The last couple of years have been epic for women in sport in Aotearoa. We’ve hosted three World Cups, sold out stadiums, launched new competitions, and found new champions.Good news is: we’re only just getting started! In 2024, we’re going all in on women’s sports. Join sports journalist Alice Soper each week as she takes a peek into the lives of some of our incredible athletes, and gives these awesome New Zealand wāhine the recognition and hype they deserve...
S1 E50 · Sun, December 29, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is excited to share our final episode of 2024 with a special two-for-one deal! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with sisters Chloe and Lola Groube to discuss all things surfing. The sisters open up about sibling rivalry in the surf, how they stay calm under pressure during competitions, and the best wave they've ever ridden. They also share what makes the surfing community so special, while their mum offers insight into the surfing pathways available here in New Zealand. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E49 · Sun, December 22, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is excited to share our kōrero with golfer and five-time World Long Drive Champion Phillis Meti! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Phillis to discuss all things golf. Phillis talks about her journey into long drive competitions and the realities of professional sport. She also reflects on the lessons she learned over the 10 years between championships and why she is so passionate about passing on her knowledge. (Disclaimer: you may catch one or two !#&*@...) Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E48 · Sun, December 15, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is excited to share our kōrero with Olympic road cyclist and New Zealand time trial champion Kim Cadzow! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Kim to discuss all things road cycling. Kim talks about navigating the chaos of her first pro year and her experience competing at the 2024 Paris Olympics. She also touches on her somewhat unconventional pathway into pro cycling and what it took to crack it. Kim discusses the importance of balancing health with ambition in the pursuit of excellence and shares which sport had her hiding in bushes as a child. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E47 · Sun, December 08, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is excited to share our kōrero with drummer and former professional skateboarder Georgina Matthews!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Georgie to discuss all things skateboarding. Georgie talks about getting her first skateboard in 1999 and how she went on to win the National Championship the following year. She shares the ups and downs of her professional career and what it was like competing overseas at a young age. She also discusses the role her family has played in both her skateboarding journey and her career as a drummer in a band with her sister. And, of course, fashion! (Disclaimer: you may catch one or two !#&*@...) Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E46 · Sun, December 01, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is excited to share our kōrero with NZBLAX attacker and current Waikato champ, Keita Perry! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Keita to discuss all things lacrosse. Keita talks about her journey into this minority sport and the role her family has played. She shares her perspective as a wahine Māori playing a sport invented by Indigenous North Americans. Plus, Keita reveals what it takes to represent New Zealand at the upcoming World Cup Qualifier in Australia in January 2025, while keeping her sights set on the next Olympic Games. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E45 · Sun, November 24, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is excited to share our kōrero with Para Alpine Development Squad Sit Skier and Winton native, Bailley Unahi! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Bailley to discuss all things sit skiing. Bailley talks about the whole new world she’s discovered on the ski slopes and about using her lived experience in her mahi. She opens up about navigating the trauma of both injury and the news cycle. Plus, Bailley shares what it's like to train and compete with the goal of representing New Zealand at the Winter Paralympics in Milan 2026. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E44 · Sun, November 17, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is excited to share our kōrero with Caitlin O'Reilly, the youngest person ever to swim the Ocean's Seven! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Caitlin to discuss all things ultra swimming. Caitlin talks about setting her first open-water record at age 12 and her journey to conquer the six remaining open-water channel swims. She opens up about not only what it takes physically to spend hours in the open water but also the mental game behind it. Plus, Caitlin shares the most beautiful thing she’s seen out in the ocean. (Disclaimer: you may catch one or two !#&*@...) Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E43 · Sun, November 10, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is excited to share our kōrero with White Sox and Kaiapoi Queens outfielder Rissa McDowell! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Rissa to discuss all things softball! Rissa talks about growing up in a family of ballers and the vital role community plays in the sport. She opens up about her goals while back in Aotearoa, her time playing overseas, and the doors softball can open for players, even on home soil. Plus, Rissa shares why outfielders deserve a bit more justice. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E42 · Sun, November 03, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is excited to share our kōrero with professional trail runner and self-taught artist Caitlin Fielder! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Caitlin right after her victory in France to chat about all things trail running. Caitlin discusses the importance of small wins when aiming to conquer big distances, the issues with the "shrink it and pink it" mentality, and how she tackles training. She also explains how a birthday gift for her boyfriend ultimately unlocked her fine arts career. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E41 · Sun, October 27, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is excited to share our kōrero with tenpin bowler (and four-time consecutive national champion) Sarah Young! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Sarah to chat about a nostalgia-inducing sport that many New Zealanders have played (albeit at a hobby level). Sarah shares about her growing up "on the lanes" in bowling centres run by her parents, then growing up to run one herself. She also highlights how tenpin bowling is an inclusive sport that can be played by people from age 5-95, whether socially or high-level. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E40 · Sun, October 20, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is excited to share our kōrero with Black Fin Surf Life Saving athlete and World Champion beach sprinter Briana Irving! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Briana to discuss one of New Zealand's most quintessential sports: surf life saving. Briana shares her journey in athletics, her passion for long-distance running, and her competitive experiences on the sand. She also highlights that surf life saving is a sport rooted in community service, playing a vital role in ensuring safety at the beach. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E39 · Sun, October 13, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is excited to share our kōrero with Olympic Weightlifting Commonwealth medalist and multiple New Zealand title holder Medea Jones! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Medea to discuss the increasing participation of women in this traditionally male-dominated sport. Medea talks about her background in international power tumbling and reveals which gymnastic move has helped enhance her lifts. She also shares how discovering her physical strength has contributed to a stronger sense of self. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E38 · Sun, October 06, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with Queenstown athlete and snowboarding Slopestyle Olympian Cool Wakushima!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Cool to chat about the universal language of sport and how it helped ease the culture shock after moving to New Zealand from Japan. Cool talks about her race in the pool against both puberty and Erika Fairweather. She also reminds us of the importance of rehabilitating both our body and mind when returning from serious injury. (Disclaimer: you may catch one or two !#&*@...) Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E37 · Sun, September 29, 2024
This week, WOMENZSPORTS is excited to share our kōrero with Tall Fern and captain of the reigning champion BNZ Kāhu, Penina Davidson! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Penina to discuss defining your own version of success — on and off the basketball court. Penina talks about the impact that former Tall Ferns have had on her basketball career and the importance of holding space for her teammates when they need it. She also shares the joy and frustration associated with firsts in women’s sports (and being part of the history-making BNZ Kāhu professional women's basketball team, which recently announced its trailblazing all-women ownership group that includes WOMENZSPORTS founder Dani Marshall!). Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E36 · Sun, September 22, 2024
This week, WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with field hockey coach and Masters Black Stick athlete Di Jordan!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Di to chat about starting her masters field hockey career in the 90s, representing New Zealand overseas and reminiscing about wearing the Silver Fern for the first time. Di talks about the importance of having a sport that lasts for life and how removing barriers through player-led design is helping others. Di also shares which Dr. Seuss book she thinks is the best metaphor for sport and for life! Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E35 · Sun, September 15, 2024
This week, in celebration of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with Kī o Rahi athlete, advocate and coach Bobbie Hira!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Bobbie to chat about the wonderful world of Kī o Rahi - a game that is rooted in legend and played around the motu. Bobbie talks about the importance of connecting her Māoritanga with her passion for sport and how she invites more wāhine to give it a go. Bobbie also shares the insights and lessons she learned as a youth MP. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E34 · Sun, September 08, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with canoe polo athlete, Paddle Fern and World Games bronze medalist Casey Hales!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Casey to chat about why she thinks canoe polo is rugby on the water, about the draw of team sports and how you can be successful at playing canoe polo chicken! Casey talks about growing up in the Hawke's Bay, the influence her older sisters had on her canoe journey and the impact she hopes to bring to the next generation of Paddle Ferns. Casey also gives the 101 on all things canoe polo. (Disclaimer: you may catch one !#&*@...) Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Photo credit: New Zealand Paddle Ferns Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E33 · Sun, August 25, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with handball athlete (2015 U21 Oceania Champ), player for London GD & handball commentator Alex Mair!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Alex to chat about how she found her way into the unique sport, about being the voice that she never heard when she first entered the game and about why you should love handball just as much as she does! Alex talks about her passion and the importance of including women behind the mic and inside the commentary box. Alex also shares how she helped shape the landscape of club handball in Wellington. (Disclaimer: you may catch one !#&*@...) Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E32 · Sun, August 18, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with Volley Fern and Australian Rules Football player for the North Shore Tigers (2023 AFLW Champions) Katie Adamson!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Katie to chat about the nitty-gritty of indoor volleyball and AFL, the art of smack-talk, and the joy that is discovering a new sport after you have mastered another. Katie talks about her journey from growing up in Nelson to playing indoor volleyball around the world, and how a move back to New Zealand led to her finding Australian Rules Football. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E31 · Sun, August 11, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with New Zealand SailGP Black Foils strategist Liv Mackay!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Liv to chat about her less traditional pathway into the sport of sailing, why they both love a quota and about the pressure and privilege of being a first. Liv talks about the struggles she's had with finding her voice as the only female sailor on a team and the hurdles of growing up outside of New Zealand's sailing hub. Liv also shares the importance of gender equality and representation in sailing and how recent changes have allowed her to see a pathway for women in professional sailing. (Disclaimer: you may catch one !#&*@...) Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E30 · Sun, July 28, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with 2024 Paris Olympics tennis player and recent Wimbledon sensation Lulu Sun!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Lulu to chat about the myth of overnight success, managing the DM blowup after becoming a household name, and the spark she wants to bring to New Zealand tennis. Lulu talks about being born in Southland's Te Anau, and why she wanted to represent New Zealand after feeling the aroha at the ASB Classic tournament in Auckland. Lulu also shares her thoughts on the differences in the professional tennis systems for men and women, and how the women in her life (her grandma, her mum, and her older sister) made huge impacts on her life. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E29 · Sun, July 21, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with waka ama paddler Jasmin Stevenson!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Jas to chat about how injury re-diverted her course from rugby, reconnecting with her Māori culture through the waka, and her mission to get more wāhine into the open ocean. Jas talks about being part of the New Zealand Elite Open Women's team for the upcoming World Sprint Championships in August in Hawaii, and finding a massive and welcoming paddling community in Aotearoa. Jas also shares her thoughts on Kiwi athletes being incredibly successful on the water, and why Wellington's windy weather makes it an ideal location for paddling. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E28 · Sun, July 14, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with equestrian athlete Louise Duncan!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Louise to chat about growing up on horseback, becoming a para-athlete after contracting meningitis as a teenager, and her journey to the 2024 Paris Paralympics (with horse Showcase). Louise talks about finding your perfect equine match, the complex logistics of transporting a horse from New Zealand, and her connection to the horses in the Lord of the Rings movies! Louise also shares her thoughts on people being scared of what they don't understand, and finding a beautiful community in para-sport. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E27 · Sun, July 07, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with badminton athlete Anona Pak!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Anona to chat about how her love of food translated to a love of languages, the secret to finding the right doubles partner, and her recent decision to retire from the national badminton team. Anona talks about passing her knowledge on to the next generation of athletes, and using her experience to coach New Zealand's next para-badminton athlete. Anona also shares her thoughts on the importance of following your dreams, and not letting pressure hold you back from doing something you love. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E26 · Sun, June 30, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with inline hockey AND ice hockey athlete Anjali Mulari!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Anjali to chat about representing New Zealand as both an Inline Fern and Ice Fern, her numerous goal-scoring records, and meeting her partner at the rink. Anjali talks about the intersections and differences between inline hockey and ice hockey, and the massive costs associated with playing her sports. Anjali also shares her thoughts on the growth of women's ice hockey globally, and how ice hockey's "plus/minus" stat provides interesting insight into team contribution. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E25 · Sun, June 23, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with long jumper Anna Grimaldi!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Anna to chat about breaking out of societal expectations, reaching success early on as a Paralympian, and winning two gold medals (and heading back to defend her title at the 2024 Paris Paralympics). Anna talks about being a one-handed athlete in a two-handed world, and using her talents to compete in the long jump and 100m/200m sprints. Anna also shares her thoughts on the categorisation of disabilities, and finding a community of para-athletes who share a piece of her lived experience. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E24 · Sun, June 16, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with ultimate frisbee athlete Marah Neal!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Marah to chat about playing a minority sport that is relatively new to New Zealand, what it's like to be a player and a coach, and where people can find ultimate teams across Aotearoa. Marah talks about how the NZ Whaitiri Ultimate Women's Team is preparing for the upcoming World Ultimate Championships in the Gold Coast. Marah also shares her thoughts on how ultimate frisbee is played without referees (and how that works out on the field!) Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E23 · Sun, June 09, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with javelin athlete Tori Peeters!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Tori to chat about growing up in Gore, being a competitive kid, and why it can be important to have a good cry. Tori talks about picking up javelin at school athletics day, then challenging herself to become the best javelin thrower in Aotearoa New Zealand (and one of the top-ranked javelin athletes in the world!). Tori also shares her thoughts on the power of dreaming big, especially when you come from a small town. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E22 · Sun, June 02, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with beach volleyball player Alice Zeimann!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Alice to chat about having four mums, her journey through the college sports system in the U.S., and her goal to be one of the first women to represent NZ in beach volleyball at the Olympics. She talks about finishing up her criminal law degree (congratulations are in order for this recent grad!) at the same time as competing for an Olympic qualification. Alice also shares her thoughts on the growth of women's sports and fan culture, and her perspective on wearing a sports bikini. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E21 · Sun, May 26, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with trampolinist Maddie Davidson!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Maddie to chat about competing in two very different Olympic games (Tokyo 2021 and Paris 2024), what it's like to throw yourself two stories into the air, and how fans can look out for Maddie's "Half Triffis" maneuver. Maddie also shares about how unlocking her mental game has been the secret to unlocking her true potential. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E20 · Sun, May 19, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with racing driver Madeline Stewart!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Madeline to chat about how racing go-karts as a kid sparked her love of motorsport, her family connection to racing, and how succeeding in this sport has meant moving out of New Zealand. Madeline also shares about the expectations put on women in her male-dominated sport, and whether or not she drives a cool car off the track. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E19 · Sun, May 12, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with netballer Erena Mikaere!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Erena to chat about how netball paved the way as New Zealand's first professional sport for women, Erena's experience as a professional athlete and a mother, and her concerns about the future of netball. Erena also shares stories about her impressive tattoo pieces, and talks about being seen as the "Dennis Rodman" of Aotearoa. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E18 · Sun, April 28, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with pole vaulter Olivia McTaggart!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Olivia to chat about how she found her way from gymnastics to pole vault, her relationship with New Zealand's binge drinking culture, and how she has learned to value the process over outcomes. Olivia also shares about her experience with online harassment and societal pressures around body image, and talks about her journey to the 2024 Paris Olympics. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E17 · Sun, April 21, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with arm wrestler and powerlifter Ashleigh Hoeta-Williamson!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Ashleigh to chat about the twists and turns that brought her to these sports, the promises she made to her late father, and the legacy she wants to leave for her kids. Ashleigh shares about finding early success in gymnastics (but having that success cut short due to injury), suffering a stroke in her early 20s, becoming a New Zealand champion arm wrestler (and newly-crowned Oceania champ!), and achieving a world record as the first woman in the world to EQ bench 700lbs (317.5kg)! Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E16 · Sun, April 14, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with world champion boxer Mea Motu!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Mea to chat about growing up in Te Tai Tokerau (Northland), her love of boxing, and reconnecting with her culture. Mea shares about starting boxing at 13 years old, leaving the sport to start a family, then finding boxing again in her 30s. TRIGGER WARNING: This episode contains discussion of intimate partner violence (between timestamps 22:45-34:40). There are no specific details of violence, but rather a meaningful conversation about resilience, breaking generational cycles of trauma, learning how to forgive, and the process of moving forward. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay *********** How to get help: If you're in danger now: Phone the police on 111 or ask neighbours or friends to ring for you. Run outside and head for where there are other people. Scream for help so your neighbours can hear you. Take the children with you. Don't stop to get anything else. If you are being abused, remember it's not your fault. Violence is never okay. Where to go for help or more information: Women's Refuge : Crisis line - 0800 REFUGE or 0800 733 843 (available 24/7) Shine : Helpline - 0508 744 633 (available 24/7) It's Not Ok : Family violence information line - 0800 456 450 Shakti : Specialist services for African, Asian and Middle Eastern women and children. Crisis line - 0800 742 584 (available 24/7) Ministry of Justice : For information on family violence Te Kupenga Whakaoti Mahi Patunga : National Network of Family Violence Services White Ribbon : Aiming to eliminate men's violence towards women. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E15 · Sun, April 07, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with swimmer Erika Fairweather!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Erika to chat about her love of the water (especially after growing up in Dunedin), winning the World Aquatics Championships in the 400m freestyle, and preparing for the 2024 Paris Olympics. Erika shares about starting competitive swimming at 11 years old (which she says is considered late for many swimmers!), making her first senior swimming team around 14 years old, and competing in the Tokyo Olympics at 17 years old. Erika also talks about her pre-race routine, her bearded collie spoodle dog, and what it's like to train for elite sports in a public facility. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E14 · Sun, March 31, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with roller derby athlete Layla Robinson (aka: "Primevil")!! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Layla to chat about her love of smashing into opponents on small wheels, preparing for the 2025 Roller Derby World Cup with Team New Zealand, and co-founding Rotorua's roller derby league (the Sulphur City Steam Rollers). Layla shares about how New Zealand's roller derby community provides an inclusive and safe space for people from all walks of life, and how people with no skating experience can still get amongst it. Layla also talks about the 101s of roller derby, and what to look out for at your next roller derby bout! Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E13 · Sun, March 24, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with cricketer Xara Jetly! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Xara to chat about cricket, debuting for the Wellington Blaze at age 16, and Xara's celebratory flips on the oval. Xara shares about how she uses social media to entertain and inspire, especially as her following grows rapidly. Xara also talks about playing cricket part of the year in the UK, and what New Zealand can learn from India about building the women's cricket game. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E12 · Sun, March 17, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with bronze medalist wrestler Tayla Ford! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Tayla to chat about her love of wrestling (which Tayla started at age 7!), her incredible flexibility and balance, and her drive to grasp another major medal (after winning medals at both the 2014 and 2022 Commonwealth Games). Tayla talks about focusing on wellbeing and peace to keep herself motivated as a high-performance athlete in a sport that has limited representation of women. Tayla also shares about learning self-confidence, and having to move abroad to train with partners who keep her competitive. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E11 · Sun, March 10, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with speed climber Sarah Tetzlaff! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Sarah to chat about the highly precise sport of speed climbing, and having to consistently compete against herself. Sarah talks about being named as the first woman member of the Paris 2024 Olympic team, and how she feels about creating a legacy as the first woman speed climber to represent New Zealand at the Olympics! Sarah also shares about how she balances high-performance training with studying for a master's degree in environmental science, as well as coaching the next generation of climbers. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E10 · Sun, March 03, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with ... ourselves! Yep, you read that right: this week, Dani & Mel (the co-founders of WOMENZSPORTS) sit down with podcast host Alice Soper (who also sees a bit of flip-the-script interviewing this episode!). We take a quick pause from our weekly athlete interviews to introduce ourselves and answer questions we've been getting: who we are, why we launched WOMENZSPORTS, what we are aiming to build, and why we think everyone should be investing in women. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by: Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay, Erloom "All You Gotta Do (vocal)" from Audiosocket via Canva Pro, Epidemic Sound "Record Scratch 7" via Canva Pro Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E9 · Sun, February 25, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with track cyclist Ellesse Andrews! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Ellesse to chat about winning a silver medal in the keirin at the Tokyo 2020 Olympics, what we should know about different track cycling races (including how the keirin was invented for gambling purposes!), and how self-confidence plays an important role in success. Ellesse also shares some behind-the-scenes about getting sick only a few weeks before the 2022 Commonwealth Games...where she then won 3 gold medals and a silver medal! Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E8 · Sun, February 18, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with Napier's very own Emma Twigg! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with the single sculler to chat about the pathways into rowing in New Zealand, how a boat (not an athlete) qualifies for the Olympics, and the possibility of Emma defending her 2021 Olympic Gold at the 2024 Paris Olympics. Emma also shares about the legacy she wants to leave off the water, and her current involvement with The Athletes' Cooperative in a lawsuit advocating for athlete rights, representation, and protections. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E7 · Sun, February 11, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with the multi-talented Honey Hireme-Smiler in this episode about women's rugby league in New Zealand! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with the Waikato-raised sports icon to chat about how sometimes you need to take the wrong paths in order to find your way to the right ones. Honey talks about how her upbringing led to finding a sense of belonging on the rugby field, and how she now dedicates her life to service. She also shares how grief and caretaking impacted her career, remembering back to winning the 2019 Rugby League World Cup 9s as the captain of the Kiwi Ferns, mere weeks after losing her mom to cancer. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E6 · Sun, February 04, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with downhill mountain biker Kate Weatherly! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Kate to chat about how riding bikes to get lollies from the dairy led Kate to podium finishes as a champion New Zealand mountain biker in 2018 and 2019. Kate also shares about the unique camaraderie and community within women's sports, and how she found herself in the middle of a debate about her participation in her sport. Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E5 · Sun, January 28, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with Claire Cooper! Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Claire to learn how a holiday program turned into a lifelong passion for épée fencing, the details on those white uniforms, and her experience competing in a niche sport at the bottom of the world. Claire also shares what it was like to compete at the World Championships in Italy in 2023 and how being selected for an international training camp for disadvantaged countries has ignited her hope to represent Aotearoa in this upcoming 2024 Summer Olympics in Paris. Donate to Claire's GiveALittle: https://givealittle.co.nz/cause/claires-2024-olympic-campaign Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E4 · Sun, January 21, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with Jacqui Elmsly: an Aotearoa Flag Fern, player for Hamilton Hawks American Football Club, and black belt in karate. Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Jacqui Elmsly to discuss everything from finding her way into an American sport in Aotearoa New Zealand, to the future of flag football leading up to its first inclusion in the 2028 Summer Olympics. Jacqui also shares how her journey in karate led her to where she is today, and tells us why she makes a great defensive player! Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E3 · Sun, January 14, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with Annalie "Flea" Longo: a Football Fern, Olympian & Captain of the Wellington Phoenix. Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Annalie Longo to discuss everything from starting a sports career at a young age to Annalie's part in naming the Football Ferns. They also explore the growth of football across New Zealand, and Annalie talks about being the first player in the world to compete at all U17, U20, Women’s World Cup & Olympic Games tournaments! Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E2 · Sun, January 07, 2024
WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with Shiray Kaka: a 10+ year player for the Black Ferns Sevens, Tokyo 2020 Olympic gold medalist, and creator of "Rayzing the Awareness" (where Shiray shouts out NZ women's sports: @shiray_9 on IG, @shiray_k9 on TikTok). Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Shiray Kaka to discuss everything from overcoming adversity, knowing how much to share online, and Shiray's background in dog psychology! They also explore what the future looks like as the Black Ferns Sevens prepare for the 2024 Olympics, and Shiray talks about what it's like to have a partner who is also a high-performance athlete. (Disclaimer: there is a bit of #%!*& in this episode, all in good fun!) Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
S1 E1 · Sun, December 31, 2023
Nau mai, haere mai and welcome to the first episode of WOMENZSPORTS presents Alice’s Soapbox! WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with Ruahei Demant: the co-captain of the World Cup Champion Black Ferns, 2022 World Rugby Women's 15s Player of the Year, and player for the Auckland Blues, Auckland Storm, and College Rifles. Sports journalist and rugby player Alice Soper sits down with Ruahei Demant to discuss everything from getting started in rugby to the challenges faced by players as the women's rugby game grows in Aotearoa New Zealand. They also explore the importance of honouring culture and heritage, and Ruahei reveals her tuākana (big sisters) and tēina (little sisters) within rugby! Follow us on social @womenzsports Want to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/about Don't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening! Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
Trailer · Fri, December 22, 2023
Nau mai, haere mai and welcome to WOMENZSPORTS presents Alice’s Soapbox ! WOMENZSPORTS presents Alice’s Soapbox is a brand new podcast showcasing women’s sports across Aotearoa New Zealand. The last couple of years have been epic for women in sport in Aotearoa. We’ve hosted three World Cups, sold out stadiums, launched new competitions, and found new champions. Good news is: we’re only just getting started! In 2024, we’re going all in on women’s sports. Join sports journalist Alice Soper each week as she takes a peek into the lives of some of our incredible athletes, and gives these awesome New Zealand wāhine the recognition and hype they deserve. (You might even discover a brand new sport to follow and support throughout the year!) Stay tuned for the first episode launching on 1st January 2024! WOMENZSPORTS is the ultimate hype champion for NZ womxn’s sports. It was founded in November 2023 by Dani and Mel Marshall, with the aim to create an Aotearoa New Zealand where it is easy to be a fan of women’s sports. Get involved in the conversation on social media and follow us @womenzsports . Music by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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