Episodes
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The Washington Spirit are heading to the 2024 NWSL Championship, so in this week’s Spirit Spotlight, Bram Weinstein and Michael Minnich break down the Spirit's dramatic playoff run. The two relive the late-game heroics from both Tara McKeown and Hal Hershfelt, the standout performances from Heather Stainbrook and McKenna Morris, along with Aubrey Kingsbury’s jaw-dropping penalty saves.
Plus, hear insights from the broadcast booth as they discuss what it will take for the Spirit to secure their second NWSL title.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Saturday, November 23rd vs Orlando Pride
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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This week on Spirit Spotlight, Bram Weinstein and Michael Minnich dive deep into the thrilling NWSL semifinals as the Washington Spirit gear up to face Gotham FC at Audi Field! With a high noon kickoff on Saturday, we break down the Spirit's journey to their first home semifinal since 2016. The two then analyze key players, including Trinity Rodman and the impact of crucial lineup changes.
To close things out, Bram and Mike recap the team’s electric quarterfinal victory, highlighted by late-match heroics, record-breaking crowds, and standout performances.
Will the Spirit's confidence, bolstered by rookie resilience and tactical flair, carry them to victory?
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Saturday, November 16th vs Gotham FC
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Missing episodes?
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In this special playoff edition of Spirit Spotlight, the broadcast booth -Bram Weinstein, Gaby Vincent and Michael Minnich- delves into the Washington Spirit's journey to clinch the No. 2 seed.
Despite a season filled with setbacks, including key injuries to stars like Andi Sullivan, Croix Bethune and Trinity Rodman, the Spirit's resilience has been unmatched. From clutch victories and new players stepping up to overcome hurdles, the team has shown why they’re a force to be reckoned with. Join our crew as they break down pivotal moments, relive the highs and lows, and preview the Spirit's first playoff clash with Bay FC at Audi Field.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Sunday, November 10th vs Bay FC
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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In this episode of Spirit Spotlight, ahead of the Washington Spirit’s last regular-season game, Michael Minnich sits down with defender Tara McKeown to discuss the team’s preparation for a high-stakes showdown against North Carolina.
Tara shares how the team is managing the physical and mental demands of this late season push, along with the valuable lessons learned from teammates like Sam Staab and Aubrey Kingsbury. She also discusses how the Spirit's rookies have stepped up this season and the growth she's experienced alongside veteran teammates.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Saturday, November 2nd vs North Carolina Courage
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Bram Weinstein hosts this week’s episode of Spirit Spotlight and is joined by Brittany Ratcliffe from the Washington Spirit as she reflects on an unforgettable season that felt like four seasons in one.
From new coaches and players to unexpected injuries and challenges, Brittany dives into the team’s journey, their unwavering chemistry, and how they’ve grown stronger together. With playoff seeding on the line, Brittany shares the Spirit’s mindset heading into the season finale, the impact of player support, and the power of staying resilient amid change.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Saturday, November 2nd vs North Carolina Courage
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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In this episode of Spirit Spotlight, one of D.C. soccer’s finest, Aubrey Kingsbury, sits down with Michael Minnich and special guest co-host Bill Hamid!
Together, the three discuss the Spirit’s recent 4-1 win over Racing Louisville FC, and the momentum that has been built for the team after securing a home field playoff match last weekend. Aubrey then reflects on some of her more recent career milestones, including surpassing the 450 saves mark with the Spirit.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Sunday, October 20th vs Chicago Red Stars
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Washington Spirit rookie Heather Stainbrook joins Michael Minnich for this week’s edition of Spirit Spotlight, fresh off the first regular season start of her NWSL career.
Heather takes us through the emotions of that rainy day, the last-minute news of her starting position, and how the support from veteran teammate Ashley Hatch fueled her confidence. She also shares a bit about her new kitten, Boo!
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Sunday, October 13th vs Racing Louisville FC
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Bram Weinstein sat down with Esme Morgan, one of the Washington Spirit's newest stars, in this week’s episode of Spirit Spotlight to discuss her journey from the WSL to the NWSL.
After growing up as a lifelong Manchester City fan and playing for her dream club for seven years, Esme made the bold decision to join the Washington Spirit. She shares why she felt it was time to leave the club she loved and how Washington Spirit is helping her unlock her full potential. Esme opens up about her competitive drive, her partnership with Tara McKeown, and her goals for the future as the Spirit eye a championship run.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Sunday, October 13th vs Racing Louisville FC
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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In this episode of Spirit Spotlight, Bram Weinstein sits down with Washington Spirit midfielder Andi Sullivan.
Together the two discuss the rise of the NWSL, along with what that rise could mean for the league’s future. Andi then reflects on her journey from playing at the Maryland SoccerPlex to leading a championship team at Audi Field, including the impact that the game has on local young talent, like Makenna Morris.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Sunday, October 13th vs Racing Louisville FC
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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This episode is hosted by Wardell McCabe, who takes you through some of the best postgame sounds from the Washington Spirit's 3-0 loss to the Kansas City Current.
You'll hear from Bram Weinstein and Gaby Vincent as they provide their immediate reactions from the team's loss. Then after that, you'll Head Coach Jonatan Giráldez, Gaby Carle, and Paige Metayer from the Post-Game Press Conferences.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Friday, September 27th at Angel City FC
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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In this week’s episode of Spirit Spotlight, Bram Weinstein catches up with the Washington Spirit's all-time leading goal scorer, Ashley Hatch!
Fresh off scoring her 49th and 50th career regular-season goals, Ashley shares her thoughts on reaching this monumental achievement, reflecting on the hard work and memorable moments that have defined her career. Plus, she gives us a glimpse into her own podcast, The Ditto Podcast, where she explores the importance of mental performance and resilience in sports.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Friday, September 20th at Kansas City Current
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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This episode of the Post-Game Pod is hosted by Wardell McCabe - covering the Spirit's dominant display over the Houston Dash on September 15th.
After recapping the 3-0 result, you'll hear Head Coach Jonatan Giráldez from the Press Conferences, followed shortly thereafter by Hal Hershfelt and Ashley Hatch.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Friday, September 20th at Kansas City Current
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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This week on Spirit Spotlight, Bram Weinstein is joined by Makenna Morris, a Germantown native and the Washington Spirit's 13th overall pick in the 2024 NWSL Draft.
Makenna shares her story of growing up just steps away from the Maryland SoccerPlex, watching the Washington Spirit, and dreaming of one day playing for her hometown team. From her early days with Bethesda Soccer Club to making her professional debut at Audi Field, Makenna reflects on her incredible journey, the support of her family, and the rise of women's soccer.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Saturday, September 15th vs Houston Dash
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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In this week's episode of Spirit Spotlight, Bram Weinstein sat down with Washington Spirit defender and U.S. Women’s National Team gold medalist, Casey Krueger.
Casey shares her thoughts on Alex Morgan’s surprising retirement while also reflecting on her recent Olympic journey, and then discusses the challenges and joys of balancing motherhood with her professional soccer career. From there she offers insight into the Spirit’s current playoff push, and how the team plans to stop Sophia Smith in their upcoming clash with the Portland Thorns.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Saturday, September 7th vs Portland
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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In this episode of Spirit Spotlight, Bram Weinstein is joined by Washington Spirit midfielder Paige Metayer. Together they dive into the Spirit's recent triumphs as Paige takes us behind the scenes of her stunning goal against Kansas City, sharing how the team's strategic play and her love for open field running created a magical moment on the pitch.
The two then explore how the Spirit are integrating new players, adjusting to post-Olympic changes, and building strong team chemistry amid a season full of transitions.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Saturday, September 7th vs Portland
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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This episode is hosted by Mike Callow following the Spirit's huge 4-1 win over KC Current, vaulting them into 2nd place in the NWSL standings.
You'll first hear from Bram Weinstein, Gaby Vincent and Michael Minnich in the broadcast booth, as they recap Washington's dominant performance returning back to action post-Olympic break, plus Andi Sullivan joining the postgame show. Then, you'll hear from Head Coach Jonatan Giráldez and Trinity Rodman.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Saturday, September 7th vs Portland
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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In this episode of Spirit Spotlight Bram Weinstein sits down with Washington Spirit head coach Jonatan Giráldez as he reflects on his initial weeks at the helm. Hear firsthand how he's navigating the transition from Liga F to the fast-paced, physically demanding style of the NWSL.
Giráldez shares some of his insights on player development, his philosophy on competition, and the importance of staying process oriented. From managing high expectations to refining game plans for key players like Trinity Rodman and Croix Bethune, this conversation offers a candid look at the process of building a championship-contending team.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Sunday, August 25th vs San Diego Wave FC
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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In this week's Spirit Spotlight, Bram Weinstein catches up with Washington Spirit defender Gabby Carle - fresh off of her run with the Canadian National Soccer Team at the Paris Olympics. Gabby opens up about the highs and lows of living her childhood dream on the world stage, including the challenges her team faced amidst unexpected scandals and the inspiring resilience their squad displayed.
Plus, Gabby shares her excitement to rejoin the Spirit as they get ready to face Arsenal in a historic friendly this, while the team gears up for the second half of the season.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Sunday, August 25th vs San Diego Wave FC
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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In this episode, Bram Weinstein is joined by Mike Minnich, and the two take a dive deep into the unexpected journey of the U.S. Women's National Team. Despite lower expectations, the team is now just one match away from a gold medal, led by the electrifying front trio of Mallory Swanson, Trinity Rodman, and Sophia Smith.
They discuss Trinity Rodman’s breakout performances on the global stage, her potential as the future superstar of U.S. women’s soccer, and what this means for her and the team’s future. Plus, they take a closer look at the defensive powerhouse Naomi Girma and the U.S.’s road to the final against Brazil. Bram and Mike then preview the looming second half of the NWSL regular season as the Washington Spirit prepare to resume action.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Sunday, August 25th vs San Diego Wave FC
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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Bram is joined once again by his fellow broadcast booth member, and NBC Olympic Correspondent, Mike Minnich on today's episode, with the two delving into the US Women's National Team's stellar start in the Olympic group stage.
Together, the two share their insights on USWNT's decisive victories, standout players like Mallory Swanson and Trinity Rodman, and the strategic choices that have propelled them forward. They also provide an early preview of the quarterfinal match against Japan and explore the potential semifinals showdown with Canada amidst the drone spying scandal.
Tune in to Spirit Spotlight live, every Friday at 3:40pm ET on ESPN 630 AM and the ESPN 630 App.
Next radio streaming broadcast: Sunday, August 25th vs San Diego Wave FC
Subscribe to the podcast today on: Apple Podcasts (https://twtr.to/lc17d), Spotify (https://twtr.to/hzo84), iHeart (https://twtr.to/Xatif), Amazon Music (https://twtr.to/JZ-tJ)
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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