Her Y: Recent Episodes
BYUradio
Her Y, hosted by Lauren McClain, focuses solely on the women who have played and coached the BYU sports we love to watch. We will celebrate their triumphs in the field of play and dig deep to discuss the setbacks in their athletic careers and everyday lives. The stories they tell will inspire and enlighten sports fans and non-sports fans alike. It’s time these Cougars get the attention they deserve.
Join us for a special and inspiring episode with BYU gymnast Mina Margraf as she shares her gymnastics journey from Japan to competing at the Big 12 Championship and everything in between. Hear about her challenges, including surgeries for a vascular anomaly, torn elbows, and her triumphant return to competition. Mina also opens up about her sexuality, the support she's received, and fostering inclusivity.
In this episode, we sit down with Brecken Mozingo, a rising star of the Utah Royals soccer team, as she shares her journey into the professional world of soccer. Brecken opens up about the challenges and triumphs along the way, discussing her battles with mental health and self-confidence. You won't want to miss this inspiring conversation.
It's part two of our interview with Whitney Johnson Catt, BYU Associate Athletic Director over Student-Athlete Development, Diversity, and Inclusion. During college, Whitney wasn't ready or willing to talk about race. However, her job has given her a powerful perspective on how transformative the power of understanding can be for someone's life, and how to help people on their identity journeys no matter where they are in the process. Whitney also talks about reconnecting with her parents about her racial identity later in life, and how it has been healing for her. We also dive into her college basketball career at New Mexico and Southern Utah, and how she overcame devastating injuries after a conversation with a friend.
Join us for a special two-part interview with Associate Athletic Director of Student-Athlete Development, Diversity, and Inclusion, Whitney Johnson Catt. Whitney talks about some of the most important parts of her work in diversity and inclusion and helping people in their own process of learning about their identities sooner. Drawing from her personal experiences navigating her racial identity, she explains how necessary difficult conversations are.
BYU women's golfer Whitney Banz's last 12 months have been a bit crazy. She returned from a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Thailand, officially transferred to BYU from Westminster College, and has tried to get her golf game back in order after not playing for 18 months. Whitney talks about how she attempts to conquer the mental blocks in the game of golf and setting records in Utah, but not in golf.
BYU women's basketball head coach Amber Whiting joins us this week to tell us all about the team's first season in the Big 12. She celebrates the team's fighting spirit, standout players, and what fans can look forward to next season.
In this episode get to know Ari Mackey-Williams, a basketball player for BYU and recent convert to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints who hails from New Zealand! She had a successful sophomore season but just before her junior year was hit with an ACL injury, which ultimately led her to lean on her team for support during recovery. Through this trial, her faith was strengthened, and her enthusiasm for basketball has only increased.
Join us this week on Her Y to hear how Natalie Lainhart's love of basketball led her down some unexpected paths. She always dreamed she'd be a successful basketball player turned coach, but due to some injuries and some divine help, her journey has looked quite different from the one she would have made for herself. Listen to how this basketball player became BYU Women's Basketball Director of Operations and the joy she finds in connecting with athletes.
Join us on this episode of Her Y as we tee off with a special guest, the BYU Women's Golf Coach Carrie Roberts. Delve into the world of golf as she shares insights into her team and the challenges of competing in the Big 12. From her unexpected coaching journey to poignant family anecdotes, discover the resilience and passion driving her remarkable career both on and off the green.
Ashley Hatch is one of the best soccer players in the United States, but she was deeply disappointed when she didn't make the USWNT's World Cup roster in 2023. In this episode, the former Cougar soccer superstar talks about how she maintained her love of soccer disappointment, and public rejections. Lauren also talks to her about maintaining a long-distance marriage, sticking to personal values, and how she gives back to her community through her "Boots from Pros" organization, which donates cleats to young aspiring players.
This week on Her Y, we share an episode from another member of our BYUradio family—Top of Mind—about the impact of sports. Most Americans identify as sports fans – more than identify as church-goers. Is it good for sports fandom to play such a prominent role in society? After all, we know how tribal, obsessive, and competitive we can get about our favorite sports teams. But there’s evidence that sports fandom benefits American society as a whole. For example, it fuels networks of relationships and can help reduce political polarization. In this podcast episode, we’ll hear why sports fans often have more friends and are more satisfied with other aspects of their lives. And we’ll cast a critical eye on the influence sports has on the way we think about gender, patriotism, and the American Dream. How can we maximize the positive impact of sports fandom in society?
In this episode, we hear from Violet Zavodnik, the BYU Softball Team's senior outfielder, who shares her journey of overcoming recent injuries and making strides in softball. From a young age, competing against older players and even on a boys' high school baseball team, Violet has developed both her physical and mental strength. She discusses how she has grown and gained confidence from playing with the USA Team, shares her excitement for the upcoming season, and laughs about her unique path to BYU, diving into the role of faith and community in her life and softball career.
This week Carlie Ellett, the wife of Kansas City Chiefs assistant Running Backs coach, Porter Ellett, shares the untold stories behind the glamour of NFL football. Beyond the Super Bowl wins and other victories with the Chiefs, she opens up about the sacrifices and challenges of solo parenting during the season while her husband is away with the team. She shares ways that she tries to keep her family connected during the season, and how she has turned to other women navigating the same football lifestyle, for strength.
This week, we're sharing a very special episode from Deep Blue—another show in our BYUradio family. Host Jason Shepherd sits down with BYU Swimmer Jordan Tiffany to talk about his road to competing for the Cougars, including falling out of love with the sport, prioritizing his mental health, and ultimately how God guided him back to the sport.
Senior Associate Athletic Director Liz Darger joins us this week to share her journey from a coaching role to an administrative role. She touches on the importance of differing perspectives in athletics as well as highlighting the positive trajectory for the women involved in BYU sports no matter the capacity. You won't want to miss this very special episode of Her Y in honor of National Girls and Women in Sports Day!
María José Barragán grew up playing golf on the courses in her home country of Mexico. So, why did she leave her home country for college golf in the United States? Find out why she eventually continued her education and links career at BYU. Plus, the international golfer recounts her experience at the ANNIKA Latin American Invitational in Argentina and her adjustment to a different country.
Sisters and BYU soccer goalkeepers Savanna Mason and Haven Empey join us for this week's episode. Both have competed against each other for years for time in goal, and they recount the joy they feel from seeing one another succeed, as well as the growth opportunities from serving church missions to overcoming injuries.
In this podcast episode, we talk with BYU's Director of Sports Medicine, Carolyn Billings. Carolyn has battled back from cancer several times and lived through several harrowing experiences. She talks about how God and others have helped her through the ups and downs of her life.
Annie Robinson, daughter of BYU Men's Basketball Assistant Coach Nick Robinson, sits down with us to talk all things swimming and basketball. As a former member of the BYU Swim Team, Annie opens up about what it was like being cut after her freshman season and offers us a glimpse into her resilient spirit and how she has navigated through difficulties in her life. A true nomad at heart, having moved nine times during her upbringing, Annie discusses the pros and cons of being a collegiate coach's daughter and shares more of her story!
Join us on this week's episode of Her Y as we sit down with BYU's Emilee Astle and Jacque Dunyon, accomplished tennis doubles partners, to discuss their win against the number one tennis doubles partners in the country. Astle and Dunyon also open up about the greatest influences on their tennis careers, going from rivals to teammates, and goals for the spring season.
BYU libero Aria McComber didn't want to play for the Cougars when she graduated from high school in Hawaii. But Aria finally made her way to Provo after a Cougar coach connected with her when she entered the transfer portal. Find out about her grandfather's volleyball legacy, her unique family dynamic, and why she decided to be baptized a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.
Join us for a chat with Kate Prior, a former middle blocker now excelling as a right side hitter. Kate's journey unfolds from the dance floor to the volleyball court, and even though her parents lacked many athletic experiences, their unwavering support has remained constant in her life. Discover the pivotal role her parents played in college recruiting, the challenges of transitioning to college, adapting to the faster pace of the game, and embracing a strategic position shift on the court. Kate shares insights with us from the NCAA tournament, a transformative European tour, and the evolving dynamics within her team which has become a close-knit family of sisters to her. Her personal growth is evident as she has overcome limited playing time to emerge as a standout player for our BYU cougars.
One season. Aleia and Ailana Agbayani get to play one college softball season together. Discover why Aleia transferred to BYU and why her sister chose the Cougar softball team over other schools. Plus, find out what it's like having a former Major League Baseball player for a father and their behind-the-scenes mom who made sure their daughters worked to experience the success they now enjoy.
This week, we have the pleasure of sitting down with BYU hurdler Lindsey Middleton on the track and field team. Lindsey generously shares her extraordinary journey, one that has taken her from the track to a mission field. In this episode, she shares her adventures, from filming segments in Texas for BYUtv to her contributions to TCU's Fellowship of Christian Athletes program. But the excitement doesn't stop there! Lindsey discusses her decision to serve a mission for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, the challenges of learning the Karen language, and her dedicated work with refugees in Kentucky. Surprisingly, running in college wasn't initially part of her plan, but after overcoming an injury, she's now performing better than ever and cherishing her BYU track experience!
Join us as we talk to the talented Lauren Gustin, a standout in collegiate basketball as last season's best rebounder in the nation, and a Senior Forward for BYU. This exclusive interview explores her record-breaking achievements, her bold transfer portal decision, her return to BYU, and the influential role her family played in fueling her passion for the game. Lauren's journey from the University of Idaho to Salt Lake Community College and back to BYU reveals the challenges she faced but also the motivation that drives her. She discusses the pressures of a powerhouse team, coaching changes, and player turnover, while also offering insights into her mental preparation, pre-game rituals, and cherished memories as a BYU student-athlete. Lauren’s story embodies dedication, resilience, and the relentless pursuit of excellence in collegiate basketball.
In this episode, we delve deep into the story of former BYU swimmer Brynn Sproul, who left an indelible mark on both the school and the sport. We take a close look at Brynn's life after graduation, her enduring connection with swimming, and her extraordinary capacity to overcome challenges. She qualified for the Olympic Trials when she was just a freshman in college, won 5 MPSF titles, and holds the BYU record in the 200 Backstroke. However, her path had challenges, including a postponed Olympic Trials due to the COVID-19 pandemic and a battle with a hip tumor that ultimately led to her having to step away from her sport sooner than anticipated. Throughout our conversation, we gain insight into her resilient journey, the impact of her faith on her athletic pursuits, and her personal growth over six transformative years, from her initial commitment to BYU in 2017 to the present.
In this fun podcast episode, we spotlight Dolita Shaw, a multitalented athlete who excels as a sprinter on BYU's Track and Field team while also making her mark as a fashion and lifestyle influencer and content creator. She shares her experience of pursuing a track career in America, specifically at BYU, all while balancing her growing social media presence. Lauren McClain's conversation dives into Dolita's unique path from the UK to the US, the challenges of adapting to Utah and BYU, and maintaining connections back home with family and friends. She also discusses her decision to commit to Jesus Christ and the role her faith in God has played in her life.
In this podcast episode, Lauren chats with BYU Softball outfielder Maddie Bejarano. We'll delve into the Arizona native's remarkable journey to BYU via the University of Central Florida. Beyond the diamond, we explore her family's influence, particularly her brother Tanner, who has Down syndrome. From facing the challenges of collegiate softball to her standout moments on the field, this conversation offers an inside look at the experiences that have defined Maddie's college career and how she found a home at BYU.
Welcome to another episode where we have special guest Avery Pope, a junior on the women's tennis team and the daughter of BYU men's basketball head coach Mark Pope and her mother Lee Anne Pope. Avery joins us to share her unique perspective on life as a member of the Pope family. We delve into her journey, her role on the women's tennis team, and how she navigates being part of such an athletic household. Tune in to hear about her experiences, her passion for tennis, and her goals for the upcoming tennis season. This conversation offers a behind-the-scenes look into her life, both on and off the tennis court.
In part two of our interview with former BYU Women's Volleyball star Kenzie Koerber Dahle, she recounts her spiritual journey and the peace she's found in the restored gospel of Jesus Christ. She also shares her experience playing college volleyball during a pandemic and the adjustment she made to be a leader on BYU's volleyball court.
Kenzie only played one season as a BYU cougar, but her life has changed quite a bit since moving to Utah. In part one of this two-part interview, she walks us through her job opportunities at BYU after her last season of volleyball and her love for the broadcasting world. She also shares with us about her mental health and other struggles during her college career and what led her to join the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.
Join us in this episode as we explore the incredible journey of a former Olympian, three-time national champion, and ten-time All-American, Tiffany Hogan. Hogan recounts her humble track beginnings, making the leap at BYU and fulfilling a lifelong goal of competing in the 2004 Summer Olympics. It was not an easy road. But her story reminds us that dedication and determination can help us overcome obstacles to greatness.
We trace Ellie Walbruch's extraordinary journey from UCLA to BYU. From scoring goals and winning a national championship at UCLA to deciding to play closer to home, Ellie's story shows us dedication and embracing new challenges. Listen in as we talk about Walbruch's transfer experience, soccer roots, and excitement about joining the BYU team.
In this episode, we dive into the incredible journey of Lynette Hernaez, a standout soccer goalie and recently returned missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. From her wins on the field to her profound spiritual transformation off the field, we explore how Lynette's dedication to soccer and her remarkable conversion intertwine. Discover how she navigated the challenges of faith and sports, transitioning from saving goals to embracing grace.
Kenzie Koerber Dahle only played one season for BYU's volleyball team, but her life has completely changed since she moved to Provo. In part one of a two-part interview, Kenzie details all the changes in her life since she stopped playing for the Cougars, including balancing a professional career in BYU Athletics and BYU Broadcasting and supporting her husband in professional baseball. Also, learn more about Kenzie's journey with mental health and how she overcame trials throughout her college career.
Courtney Wayment won 4 National Championships while she ran track and field at BYU, but what is next for this former steeplechase national champion? Courtney shares not only her journey to athletic dominance but also what it has been like running at the professional level as one of the first members of Diljeet Taylor's professional running group, Taylor Made Elite.
Abby Taylor's journey from Las Vegas to Provo was a long one. It started with learning how to play competitive volleyball in high school. But no division one school recruited her out of high school. So, how did she finally make it onto the BYU women's volleyball team to play a vital role for one season? It's a story of hard work and dedication.
Jamie Shepherd is coming back to play one more season for the Cougars. That also means the midfielder will also get to play against her sister, UVU defender Jenna Shepherd, one more time. Jamie dishes on what it's been like to play against her sibling and how that's put to the side for Sunday dinners. Plus, Jamie shares her experience of playing in a National Championship match and the pressure of PKs.
Elease Rollins is an All-American for the BYU gymnastics team with an all-American story. She has gone from walk-on to being named one of the best in her gymnastics discipline. Hear how the "beam queen" almost didn't get that far because she was not on scholarship and running out of money. And listen to a bonus interview with BYU basketball coach Amber Whiting.
Anyssa Alvarado is the first Mexican-Honduran gymnast for BYU and also the first member of her family to attend college. These incredible achievements have set the bar of expectations higher and higher for Anyssa and she tells us how she does her best to live up to them.
Holly Hasler played tennis at BYU for one season before turning pro. And even though she played some big-time names in some big-time tournaments, Hasler was looking for something more. Now she's coaching potential pros of the future at BYU. Find out why she decided to step away from the professional spotlight and what she loves most about being a coach for her players and her family.
BYU Hurdler/Sprinter Adaobi Tabugbo is all about winning and competing at a high level. But she wasn't sure if she could make it work out at BYU. Find out how her mother and relying on her faith in God made fitting in a little easier. Adaobi also shares insights into why her family immigrated to the United States, her Nigerian heritage and culture, and why she wants to run for her home country someday.
BYU Cross Country runner Aubrey Frentheway and Cougar gymnast Rebekah Ripley talk about their roads to success by striving to improve at their sport despite setbacks. Frentheway talks about how a disappointing finish last season has been motivating her to work harder in the future. Rebekah Ripley talks about what it has been like going viral for her "Barbie Girl" floor routine and how it has made her return to competition from injuries that much sweeter.
How hard is it to come back from an injury? What about an injury sustained in a car accident? For BYU runner Meghan Hunter, it's not been easy. She broke her neck in a car accident that threatened her running career. Now, she's back to racing again, but it's not come without some struggles physically and mentally. Meghan, though, reminds herself that progress isn't always linear.Additional Guest: Iain Hunter - BYU professor and Meghan's father.
From not playing basketball until 9th grade to WCC player of the year, former BYU Women's Basketball player Morgan Bailey is now taking on a new role. Morgan reminisces on her time playing at BYU and how she is adjusting to her new title as an assistant coach. With Amber Whiting's hire as head coach, Morgan saw this as an opportunity to progress and develop into the coach she would like to become. Later, Morgan talks about her playing career, journey overseas and how her mom influenced her decision to play at BYU.
Diljeet Taylor, BYU women's track and cross country head coach, has had an incredibly successful career. But one of her most important successes is the relationships she creates with her runners and the people she interacts with. In this podcast, Diljeet talks about why she chooses to empower someone every day and what it's like being a member of the Sikh faith in Provo.
Lexi Eaton Rydalch left a legacy of hard work, perseverance, faith, and a family-first mentality during her time as a star on the BYU Women's Basketball team and as a standout high jumper on the track team. Hear about how Lexi's strong desire to be the best mother she could be helped guide her decisions regarding her athletics career.
Playing two or three sports in junior high and high school is not unheard of. But how tough is it to pull off in college? BYU Cougar alumni Lindsey Metcalf and Caitlyn Alldredge were able to do it but had two very different experiences. Hear how they pushed through the struggles to become stellar athletes in two sports.
What does it take to make a track national champ? If you are BYU's Ashton Riner-Lunt, you grow up on a farm in eastern Washington state, have your dad be your coach, and get angry right before you throw. Riner-Lunt recounts her journey to becoming the NCAA javelin national champ, including how she recovered from Tommy John surgery and how adrenaline fuels her throws.
Heather Gneiting didn't expect her senior season on BYU's volleyball team would go like this. It started with a fan being accused of shouting racial slurs during a match with Duke University and death threats against her coach. But Gneiting and her teammates have come through it all. Gneiting also details why she stopped playing volleyball to serve a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and her hopes of playing professionally once her college career is complete.
Amber Whiting's path to becoming BYU's newest head coach for women's basketball has been an unexpected journey. Whiting gave up college basketball to focus on her family and also supported her husband for 12 years as he played professional basketball in Italy. But she never lost a love for the game. In this podcast, find out how Amber went from being a basketball player's wife to BYU's big boss on the hardwood.
Laveni and Daviana Vaka, twin sisters on the BYU Women's Soccer team, are very close. But the duo didn't want to play with each other once they left high school. So how did they end up in Provo? You'll find out in this week's podcast. You'll also hear what it's like playing for Tonga's national team and overcoming potentially debilitating performance anxiety.
What is it like to play with not one but two siblings on the same team? We get answers from sisters Morgan Clinger, Whitney Bower, and Eden Bower from the BYU volleyball team. They learned the sport early from their mother, Caroline Bower, who also played volleyball for the Cougars. They've also gained knowledge and understanding from each other during their triumphs and trials.
In our first episode, BYU women's soccer captain Natalee Wells shares her journey from Utah women's soccer star to missionary for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints to a defender on a team that made it to the college cup. And she almost didn't play again after a sledding accident in 2020.
BYU women’s athletics has been dominant regionally and nationally in almost every sport on campus. It’s time these Cougars get the attention they deserve. Lauren McClain dives into their stories on, and off, the field of play.