POPULARITY
In this episode of Untidy, Alice Soper is back behind the mic with Hannah, stepping in as co-host once more while Matilda continues to handle the jandal. Alice and Hannah get into Alice’s journey toward motherhood in a queer partnership. From wanting to be a mum, tweaking her fiancee’s algorithm, finding sperm donors, considering whakapapa, and choosing to step outside the medical system; Alice takes us on her queer journey towards motherhood. Alice opens up about the big conversations with her partner, the moment she knew she wanted to carry, and how they’re hoping to build their whanau with love, intention, and community. The girls take a detour into Alice’s elaborate proposal, a history lesson on the rebellion of women’s rugby, and a solid rant about gender politics in sport. Links from the episode: Open Play by Sheree Bekker & Steve Mumford Full Credit podcast with Alice Soper and Les Elder Where to watch: Girls Can’t Surf – Documentary My Big Moments – Kids’ books (Use code UNTIDY for 10% off) If you’re enjoying Untidy, the best way to show your support is by tapping the ‘+ follow’ button in your podcast app and subscribing on YouTube! That way, fresh episodes will always be ready and waiting for you. Help us to keep building this supportive community — share an episode with a mate, and chuck us a 5-star review — it helps more people find our Untidy, unfiltered, and relatable chats. Thank you for listening, contributing and supporting this independent production! We’re grateful to have you here! — Hannah & Matty xx Don’t forget! Untidy is made for YOU — the people right at the heart of this steaming hot mess! Follow the show and DM us on Instagram @untidypodcast or email hello@untidypodcast.com. Your stories and ideas to help shape the show! Find us online at Untidy podcast. Find Matilda at @matootles and get your copy of The Feel Good Guide. Find Hannah at @hannahedavison and her My Big Moments children’s books at @mybigmoments. Enter code UNTIDY at checkout for 10% off your order.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
In this episode of Untidy, Hannah is joined by fellow neuro-spicy, and guest co-host, Alice Soper. Alice is a multi-award-winning sports broadcaster, co-host of the ‘Full Credit’ podcast, women’s rugby obsessive, and unfiltered advocate responding to a broad spectrum of the world’s f*ckery. With Matilda away wrangling the most feral life admin, Alice takes the mic for an unmoderated kōrero about identity, queerness, relationships, and throwing out outdated life scripts. Together, Hannah and Alice unpack the tyranny of gender expectations, the temptation of dating a ‘broject’, and how to recover from being a ‘Band-Aid Bitch’. They explore the parallels between coming out and getting divorced, and each share their personal experiences of neurodivergence, ADHD, overstimulation, and the freedom that comes with being able to remove the mask. And, if you’ve ever felt on the sidelines of sport, Alice makes the most compelling case for why this is the year to get behind women’s rugby. The Black Ferns are gearing up to defend their World Cup title, and if Alice can’t get you excited, no one can. As mentioned in the show: Full Credit podcast with Alice Soper and Les Elder Black Ferns V Canada tickets NZ Rugby 2025 Season tickets If you’re enjoying Untidy, the best way to show your support is by tapping the ‘+ follow’ button in your podcast app and subscribing on YouTube! That way, fresh episodes will always be ready and waiting for you. Help us to keep building this supportive community — share an episode with a mate, and chuck us a 5-star review — it helps more people find our Untidy, unfiltered, and relatable chats. Thank you for listening, contributing and supporting this independent production! We’re grateful to have you here! — Hannah & Matty xx Don’t forget! Untidy is made for YOU — the people right at the heart of this steaming hot mess! Follow the show and DM us on Instagram @untidypodcast or email hello@untidypodcast.com. Your stories and ideas to help shape the show! Find us online at Untidy podcast. Find Matilda at @matootles and get your copy of The Feel Good Guide. Find Hannah at @hannahedavison and her My Big Moments children’s books at @mybigmoments. Enter code UNTIDY at checkout for 10% off your order.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Wherein I sit down with the amazing Alice Soper to talk Super Rugby Aupiki and all things Women's Rugby, while managing to insert tidbits of silliness, as well. If you're enjoying listening, please like and subscribe, and above all, tell a friend! If you'd like the FULL VIDEO pods rather than audio only, please subscribe to our YouTube Channel. Sound bites commonly used in this show are from the show, “Still Game,” available on Netflix, and “The West Wing,” available on HBO, I highly recommend both. Thanks, cheers and be well! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Wherein I sit down with the amazing Alice Soper to talk Super Rugby Aupiki and all things Women's Rugby, while managing to insert tidbits of silliness, as well. If you're enjoying listening, please like and subscribe, and above all, tell a friend! If you'd like the FULL VIDEO pods rather than audio only, please subscribe to our YouTube Channel. Sound bites commonly used in this show are from the show, “Still Game,” available on Netflix, and “The West Wing,” available on HBO, I highly recommend both. Thanks, cheers and be well! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
Alice Soper joins Riccardo to preview the opening round of Super Rugby Aupiki Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
"Everybody has their own version of success and wouldn't it be cooler if we were just telling those stories, rather than holding it up against some arbitrary marker" - Alice Soper, Advocate, Sports Writer & Community Commentator. Alice is always, always going to light a fire within me everytime we speak. This episode is no different, and it is a gift to share it with you today!! During our kōrero, we start with discussing Alice's journey in advocating for women's sports, reflecting on her personal growth as a freelancer and the intersection of politics and sports. My favourite parts are when we dive into the complexities of storytelling and the innovations needed in sports broadcasting to enhance viewer engagement, increase media representation, and the role of social media in activism and shaping narratives. My write-up of this episode truly cannot do it justice, just tune in and let me (or Alice) know your thoughts on our many, many topics! Listen to the full interview on Spotify, iHeart Radio, or Apple Podcasts. #sports #woman #womensport #womenzsport #advocacy #freelancer #rugby #sport #newzealand #aotearoa #podcast #mentalperformance #tallpoppytalk #mentalhealthmatters #quote #fyp #athlete #athletes #storytelling #storyteller #broadcasting #representation #activism #narratives #gender #equality
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
Wherein I again sit down with the incredible Alice Soper to talk all things women's rugby in New Zealand! You can subscribe to her newsletter here: https://alicesoapbox.substack.com/ If you're enjoying listening, you can always buy me a beverage through the link below, or you can sign up through Anchor to become a monthly supporter! If you still haven't left a review, I'd really appreciate it if you could take that bit of time, it's really more helpful than I can say. In the meantime, thanks as always for your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ScrumOfTheEarth https://cms.megaphone.fm/channel/COMG8392611016 Sound bites commonly used in this show are from the show, “Still Game,” available on Netflix, and “The West Wing,” available on HBO, I highly recommend both. Thanks, cheers and be well! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
This week, in celebration of Te Wiki o te Reo Māori WOMENZSPORTS is hyped to share our kōrero with Ki Ō 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 Ki Ō 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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon't forget to rate & review this podcast wherever you're listening!Photo credit: New Zealand Paddle FernsMusic by Alex_MakeMusic “Calming In The Sun” from Pixabay Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
PRIDE was born of protest. Riots. The necessity to love & be who we are without fear of reprisal, judgement, criminality, violence, or death. In many places, PRIDE is now a celebration. A place where queer, rainbow, & LGBTQIA+ people & those who love them (go the allies!) can be seen, heard, & embraced for simply being who they are. As a queer person, my journey to self-acceptance has been a life-long one. I didn't come out until my mid-thirties & when I came out I came out ready to do whatever I could to be seen, heard, & to support others to be their authentic selves. Whether it was in boardrooms, ballrooms, greenrooms, or in the public eye - my mission has been a simple one: to be seen so that others might see themselves represented in positive, optimistic, & loving ways. Being a queer kid in small towns, big cities, or in places where queerness is literally illegal means that so many folks around the world need voices, faces, & ideas that reinforce to them that they are enough. As they are, as they will be… as they always have been. Society is great at telling us what to hide about ourselves, my life is dedicated to the opposite. I'm certain that my only job on this planet is to show love, be love, share love & invite love into this world. This week's Kindness Warriors episode is one that celebrates PRIDE, queerdom, rainbow allies, & everyone out there who knows that love truly is love. To anyone struggling with self-acceptance or finding a community: let this be a love note to you. You're welcome here, with us. Always. A huge thanks goes out to this week's guests. Folks who, when I put out the call (or dropped into their DMs) sent through their thoughts on what PRIDE means to them whole-heartedly & without hesitation. You're all heroes in my eyes.And, in my heart. Happy PRIDE, whānau. Let's stretch the season out into every season. Let's double-down on lifting up others. This week's guests are Cheley Tackett: singer, songwriter, sister Janis Vogel: life coach, epic creative Hunter Kelly: author, radio host, soul-brother Clare Cheyne: sister, ally, documentarian Emily Scott Robinson: singer, songwriter, sister with the best laugh! Madeline Finn: singer, songwriter, baby shark Laura LaBarbera: my best friend & soul mate Haylie Craig: creative legend, inspiring human Dani Fennessy: sister, media personality Alice Soper: writer, host, rugby-mad sis Brooke Berry: host, creative, guru, a friend for the ages
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
Wherein I sit down for a chat with the amazing Alice Soper, New Zealand writer, pundit and advocate for all things Women's Rugby! If you're enjoying listening, you can always buy me a beverage through the link below, or you can sign up to become a monthly supporter! If you still haven't left a review, I'd really appreciate it if you could take that bit of time, it's really more helpful than I can say. In the meantime, thanks as always for your support! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/ScrumOfTheEarth Sound bites commonly used in this show are from the fantastic show, “Still Game,” available on Netflix, I highly recommend it. Thanks, cheers and be well! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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 450Shakti: 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 violenceTe Kupenga Whakaoti Mahi Patunga: National Network of Family Violence ServicesWhite Ribbon: Aiming to eliminate men's violence towards women. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
The Hurricanes women's side have gone after the Government with their new haka. Hurricanes Poua debuted their new haka over the weekend and with a line about "puppets of this redneck government". The haka was written by a former rugby player but it was the brainchild of Hurricanes Poua prop and Haka Leader Leilani Perese. Alice Soper joined D'Arcy Waldegrave to discuss the issue. LISTEN ABOVESee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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-campaignFollow us on social @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
Alice Soper is one of my favourite humans. Her heart, mind, passion for life, & her ability to create community around women's sport inspires me daily. I don't know many things for certain, but I am certain that anyone who knows Alice knows what it feels like to feel seen. In this episode we talk about gender expression, sexuality, creativity in equity for sport, & about how growing older doesn't have to mean growing up. Buckle up, this is a helluva conversation!!!
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
In this year's first episode of the Kindness Warriors Creative Commons series of conversations, I sit down with Dani & Mel - two American imports bringing NZ sports (women's sports, to be exact) to the fore in 2024. Not only are these two some of the most amazing humans you'll ever meet, but they're building something BIG for New Zealand (& the world) with the launch of WomenzSports. In this conversation we get nerdy, sporty, & dive into what inspired these two creative souls to bring more equity of coverage & more passion for women's sport across Aotearoa. You're going to absolutely love their mahi & the mana behind what drives them. We also become the unofficial fan club for Alice Soper. Ha! Enjoy!
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 @womenzsportsWant to get in touch? https://www.womenzsports.com/aboutDon'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.
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.
The Black Ferns team has been named ahead of the final match of the WXV1 tournament Saturday night against England. The Test between the world's two leading nations at Auckland's Mount Smart Stadium is a rematch of last year's memorable World Cup final at Eden Park, which New Zealand won 34-31. Rugby commentator Alice Soper says the tournament so far shows anything could happen. Soper spoke to Corin Dann.
Freelance journalist and staunch advocate for women's sport Alice Soper opens up on her path to self-acceptance and coming out in her late 20s, and deep dives into the stronghold gender and perception bias still have in women's sport.
"Women's sport is a protest. No one ever turned around and was like 'oh you're allowed to play now,' that was always a fight. People did it themselves." Alice Soper is a writer, a former rugby player and a life-long advocate for the game. During this interview we dive into the landscape and evolution of women's rugby, discuss the impact of good leadership, how we can strengthen one another, and, why she "rants." Alice regularly writes for the Lockerroom and NZ Herald, and has been interviewed for the New York Times, Radio NZ & more. This was an epic, passionate korero with lots of educational moments.Listen to the full interview on Spotify, iHeart Radio, or Apple Podcasts.#rugby #womenssport #womensrugby #writer #commentator #aotearoa #newzealand #lockerroom #worldcup #elite #athletes #advocate #tallpoppy #blackferns #protest #women #sport
Three new assistant coaches have been named for the Black Ferns, all of whom are men. Tony Christie, Steve Jackson and Mike Delany will join head coach Allan Bunting in the coaching set up, while former NZ Sevens team manager Janelle Strickland will be the team's manager. The new trio replace departing assistants Wesley Clarke and Whitney Hansen. There hasn't been a great coaching pathway for women in rugby over the years, but some are starting to emerge, such as Crystal Kaua at the Chiefs, and Victoria Grant with the Hurricanes. Of course Hansen was an assistant with the Black Ferns under Wayne Smith, but she's now leading the Matatū in Super Rugby. Former Wellington player turned rugby commentator Alice Soper thinks more could be done to improve that coaching pathway for women. She spoke to Corin Dann.
The Black Ferns now have an all-male coaching team. The trio of Tony Christie, Steve Jackson and Mike Delany will join Black Ferns Director of Rugby Allan Bunting to round off the coaching staff for the World Cup winning team. Sports journalist and former player Alice Soper isn't surprised by the all-male lineup, as they didn't have any credible women short-listed for the Black Ferns coaching roles. "What we've got at the moment is a bit of a lopsided landscape. People would probably look around and go- oh, well we've got a couple of head coaches now in Opiki with the Super Rugby competition. That's true, but we've now got three." LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The South Island's Matatū women's Super Rugby side have won the Aupiki title for 2023, beating Chiefs Manawa 33-points-to-31 in a thrilling final on Saturday afternoon. It's been a splendid year for women's rugby, with the Black Ferns winning the World Cup on home soil with a series of enthralling performances, and the Super Rugby Aupiki final delivered again. The only disappointment for many observers is that the season is done and dusted already, and it's not even April yet. Rugby commentator and former Wellington player Alice Soper spoke to Māni Dunlop.
D'Arcy Waldegrave speaks to former Farah Palmer Cup player Alice Soper on what a massive year 2022 was for women's sport and what needs to happen to make sure the momentum doesn't go to waste.See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
The Black Ferns managed to hold off France in last night's semi-final and win the match 25-24. The score was close and the match was intense, but the Black Ferns have advanced to the final against England. Sports journalist Alice Soper broke down the impressive performance from the Black Ferns this morning. LISTEN ABOVE See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
New Zealand Rugby has admitted it didn't consider the Black Ferns' Rugby World Cup quarterfinal when it agreed to a fixture against Japan, which will be in direct competition for viewers. The Black Ferns, playing in their first home world cup campaign, take on Wales in the World Cup quarterfinal in Whangarei at 7.30pm on Saturday night. NZR knew about the likely quarterfinal fixture about a year ago, and yet they somehow forgot the women would be playing when they scheduled the All Blacks to play Japan at 6.50pm. It means viewers will have to decide whether to watch a meaningless All Blacks game in Japan, or a knockout, sudden-death Black Ferns' World Cup match. Rugby commentator Alice Soper spoke to Corin Dann.
The Black Ferns got their women's Rugby World Cup campaign off to a great start on Saturday, beating Australia 41-points-to-17 at Eden Park. Despite 6000 ticket holders staying home, the 34,235 people who fronted up set a record for a women's sporting crowd in New Zealand. Attendees say Eden Park was brimming with energy, with a strong base of families and new fans in the stands. Rugby commentator Alice Soper spoke to Guyon Espiner.
To launch the series and to get excited for the first round of matches, Jess Bunyard is joined by fierce rugby activist Alice Soper to chat about her country being the host nation. Eamonn Hogan also joins the podcast to discuss barriers to coaching.
The Women's Rugby World cup will kick off at Eden Park this weekend so for this week's NZ Sporting history we're looking back at the history of women's rugby in Aotearoa. Former player and commentator Alice Soper talks to Jesse.
The ninth edition of the Women's Rugby World Cup is kicking off. The excitement is tangible for the growing legion of fans who enjoy following their sporting idols. However, the promotion around this world-class sporting event pales in comparison to when the Men's Rugby World Cup was previously held in New Zealand. So are we doing enough to back the Black Ferns? Who are the main teams to watch this year? And can the Black Ferns take the trophy for a record sixth time? Today, Damien is joined by NZ Herald columnist, huge rugby fan, and passionate player of the game, Alice Soper. Follow The Front Page on iHeartRadio or wherever you get your podcasts. You can read more about this and other stories in the New Zealand Herald, online at nzherald.co.nz, or tune in to news bulletins across the NZME network. Host: Damien VenutoProducers: Paddy Fox and Shaun D WilsonSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
It's been a long time coming, but a New Zealand national rugby team has finally dealt a dominant blow to opposition over the weekend. On Saturday night in Christchurch, the Black Ferns battered Australia's Wallaroos 52 points to five in the first of two test matches. Australia aren't expected to be New Zealand's biggest headache when it comes to the World Cup in October and November - the bigger challenges are expected to come from England, France, and perhaps even Canada. Rugby commentator Alice Soper says we still saw some promising signs. Soper spoke to Corin Dann.
The Black Ferns have won the Pacific Four Series 2022 with a crushing victory in the final against the United States. It's a promising sign before October's Rugby World Cup. Rugby commentator Alice Soper spoke to Corin Dann.
Widespread problems within the culture and management of the Black Ferns rugby team - including body shaming, ghosting and favouritism - have been revealed in a scathing independent review. The inquiry was undertaken after New Zealand's tour of Europe at the end of last year, which resulted in four losses. There were also revelations by hooker Te Kura Ngata-Aerengamate that coach Glenn Moore had told her she didn't deserve to be on the team, and was picked "only to play the guitar". While the review panel found comments like those weren't isolated, Moore has kept his job and New Zealand Rugby is not making a public apology to Ngata-Aerengamate, saying a restorative justice process is underway. Rugby commentator and player Alice Soper spoke to Corin Dann.
Staf has a chat to rugby analyst Alice Soper after an underwhelming Black Ferns side was soundly beaten by England.
The Black Ferns have suffered a second emphatic loss to England, going down 56-15 in Northampton earlier this morning. The result comes a week after the New Zealanders were humbled by the team with a record 43-12 score. Alice Soper spoke to Corin Dann about where the power lies in women's rugby and who's looking good ahead of next year's World Cup.
Staf has a chat to rugby analyst Alice Soper after an underprepared Black Ferns side was soundly beaten by England.
“It just seems bizarre.” Alice Soper questions why there doesn't seem a code of conduct that would prevent Troy Bowker from speaking against his team. And expresses disgust that someone can buy a place at the table and also buy immunity from their comments.LISTEN ABOVE
Gold For The Black FernsThe women's sevens side bet France 26-12 in the final to win the gold medal.Francesca Rudkin chatted to New Zealand rugby player and Sky contributor Alice Soper about why this win was the fruition of nearly 10 years of work and what a win like this will do for women's rugby.The Sports We Didn't ExpectCommentator Mark Watson talked about the surprising sports New Zealand is medalling in this Olympics and what ones to watch out for this week.LISTEN ABOVE
Staffy and Alice Soper chat Farah Palmer Cup
A controversial opinion piece in Rugby News has sparked backlash from sports fans.Columnist Sam Casey wrote that New Zealand Rugby is investing too much money in women's rugby for too little return.He also took aim at Farah Palmer Cup player Alice Soper for putting pressure on New Zealand Rugby to get more game time for the Black Ferns.Soper told Heather du Plessis-Allan that New Zealand Rugby had already struggled to make money before Covid-19, and women's rugby hasn't made anything worse. She says Farah Palmer is the stepping stone between club rugby and international rugby"The only opportunity for the Black Ferns was to play in the FPC."If you want to be defending a World Cup on home soil, the FPC was their only option."Soper says that other competitions for men - such as Heartland - do not provide a training ground for international competitors. LISTEN ABOVE
An historic occasion took place over the weekend at Eden Park when two super rugby women's teams played a one-off at the stadium. Alice Soper says it marks a big step.
Jordan has a yarn with Wellington Pride member, Alice Soper. The outside back turned hooker spills how she got into playing rugby, what led to her calling out the NZRU last year and where the women's game has been continually let down along with suggestions for how she'd address the problems.
The Black Ferns won't play any test rugby this year, despite only being a year out from the Rugby World Cup.The world champions were scheduled to play eight tests - including seven at home - ahead of next year's World Cup in New Zealand, but Covid-19 has forced those matches to be cancelled.Among the games announced in March this year were tests against the USA in Dunedin and two O'Reilly Cup clashes against the Wallaroos, with more test announcements promised before the pandemic forced the worldwide suspension of rugby. New Zealand Rugby, who initially hoped to reschedule at least two tests this year, confirmed that the Black Ferns won't be playing international games at all in 2020."The Wallaroos are unable to make it over," NZR chief executive Mark Robinson told Newshub."We would've liked to have got some international competition for the team, obviously. That was something we've continued to work through really carefully and were really committed to in the last little while."But unfortunately, we haven't been able to do that, so we'll focus on a domestic type situation … that's the best we can do for now." The news comes after NZR worked hard to secure a full All Blacks test schedule for this year, including two Bledisloe Cup tests to be played in New Zealand in October. Many in the New Zealand rugby community expressed their disappointment on social media, including Wellington Pride player Alice Soper."Ata māria [sic] to everyone, except @NZRugby who have done everything possible to ensure the All Blacks play but are happy to leave the Black Ferns to play domestically the year before a World Cup," Soper wrote on Twitter."Ridiculous that we aren't playing a test the year before a World Cup but okay, if we are playing local Barbarians, when?" Soper added in another tweet, which included a video expressing her frustration with NZR."I thought maybe we were going to make it happen, particularly how hard they worked to make the men's stuff go. But na it's not happening for us."And okay sure, multiple layers as to why. But you know what, when you make an announcement, have a backup ready to go. We want to build momentum and we want to build excitement into a World Cup." NZR later announced a revised three-match schedule in November at the conclusion of the Farah Palmer Cup - consisting of a Possibles v Probables match on Saturday November 7, and two clashes between the Black Ferns and the New Zealand Barbarians on November 14 and 21.In a statement, Robinson said NZR remained "committed to having the Black Ferns play in front of our local fans as we build up to next year's Rugby World Cup and the opening rounds of the Farah Palmer Cup have been a good indicator of the outstanding quality of rugby we can expect from these three matches"."Covid-19 has caused a range of unique complexities for the international women's game. Many players balance work commitments with rugby, so for many teams extended periods away from their home countries to play international rugby is tough," Robinson said."The financial implications of quarantine and travel are also significant to teams."The 2021 Rugby World Cup is scheduled to kick off on September 18, with matches to be played at Waitakere Stadium, Northland Events Centre and Eden Park.
We talk with Alice Soper who this morning went to twitter to call out the NZR for some clarity around the Farah Palmer Cup...And we welcome the @thefullninetynz podcast to the Marc Peard Sports platform... @nick_hyde06 and @jacobspoonley covering NZ club, @wellingtonphoenix and @nzallwhites football!.
In Extra Time this week ...what do the Black Caps need to do to turn their Summer of Discontent around? Super Rugby kicks off this weekend but do we care? Basketball star Kobe Bryant died this week but was the New Zealand media over the top? And we preview the Super Bowl - the San Francisco 49ers against the Kansas City Chiefs. Listen in with Barry Guy, Alice Soper, Hamish Bidwell, Clay Wilson and Matt Chatterton.
In Extra Time this week ...what do the Black Caps need to do to turn their Summer of Discontent around? Super Rugby kicks off this weekend but do we care? Basketball star Kobe Bryant died this week but was the New Zealand media over the top? And we preview the Super Bowl - the San Francisco 49ers against the Kansas City Chiefs. Listen in with Barry Guy, Alice Soper, Hamish Bidwell, Clay Wilson and Matt Chatterton.
The All Black centre Sonny Bill Williams has confirmed his return to rugby league and while he'll do well out of a reported $10 million deal the RNZ Sports panel ponders the benefits for the Toronto Wolfpack or the English Super League. Hamish Bidwell, Alice Soper, William Maloney and Barry Guy discuss SBW's time in union and what he still has to offer. There is also plenty of debate over who should be the next All Blacks coach with NZ Rugby casting their net wide to find a replacement for Steve Hansen.
The All Black centre Sonny Bill Williams has confirmed his return to rugby league and while he'll do well out of a reported $10 million deal the RNZ Sports panel ponders the benefits for the Toronto Wolfpack or the English Super League. Hamish Bidwell, Alice Soper, William Maloney and Barry Guy discuss SBW's time in union and what he still has to offer. There is also plenty of debate over who should be the next All Blacks coach with NZ Rugby casting their net wide to find a replacement for Steve Hansen.
In Extra Time this week the All Blacks attempt to put behind them a recent poor run against Ireland when they meet in the quarter-finals of the World Cup. The Black Ferns have lost to Ireland at a World Cup. Halfback Kendra Cocksedge was a member of that team in 2014 and she has her thoughts on what the men will need to do to avoid an early exit from this tournament. Cocksedge and Wellington Pride player Alice Soper join the RNZ sports crew of Hamish Bidwell, Joe Porter and Barry Guy to discuss the All Blacks-Ireland match and the other six teams still in contention for the Webb Ellis Cup.
In Extra Time this week the All Blacks attempt to put behind them a recent poor run against Ireland when they meet in the quarter-finals of the World Cup. The Black Ferns have lost to Ireland at a World Cup. Halfback Kendra Cocksedge was a member of that team in 2014 and she has her thoughts on what the men will need to do to avoid an early exit from this tournament. Cocksedge and Wellington Pride player Alice Soper join the RNZ sports crew of Hamish Bidwell, Joe Porter and Barry Guy to discuss the All Blacks-Ireland match and the other six teams still in contention for the Webb Ellis Cup.
In Extra time this week - Host Hamish Bidwell talks with RNZ rugby correspondent Joe Porter and Wellington Pride women's rugby player Alice Soper about the Rugby World Cup and the challengers to the All Blacks throne. They discuss the future of rugby in the Pacific Islands, what NZ Rugby and World Rugby need to do to level the playing field and what NZ rugby needs to do to increase the amount of women in its ranks. We also catch up with Supercars leader New Zealander Scott McLaughlin who's racing at home in Pukekohe this weekend.
In Extra time this week - Host Hamish Bidwell talks with RNZ rugby correspondent Joe Porter and Wellington Pride women's rugby player Alice Soper about the Rugby World Cup and the challengers to the All Blacks throne. They discuss the future of rugby in the Pacific Islands, what NZ Rugby and World Rugby need to do to level the playing field and what NZ rugby needs to do to increase the amount of women in its ranks. We also catch up with Supercars leader New Zealander Scott McLaughlin who's racing at home in Pukekohe this weekend.