In this roundtable episode of “The Forecast” on KVRU 105.7 FM, host Maggie Mertens speaks with hockey writers Ava Wood and Heather Coy Moonka about the inaugural PWHL season of the Seattle Torrant, reflecting on a year of on-ice struggles, off-ice success, and growing community support. They recount a pivotal late-season win over the Minnesota Frost that secured a top-two position in the league’s “Gold Plan” draft-order system, an anti-tanking measure that rewards eliminated teams for continued strong play in pursuit of a highly anticipated, star-studded draft class. The guests highlight standout performances from players such as Michaela Grant-Mentis, Julia Gosling, Hannah Murphy, and CJ, emphasizing their energy, resilience, and emotional connection with fans. Despite finishing at the bottom of the standings, they argue that the true success of the season lies in consistently strong attendance, family-friendly accessibility, and an unusually engaged, knowledgeable crowd that has embraced the team and created an inclusive environment, especially for women and children discovering pro women’s hockey.

Looking ahead, they express optimism about the Torrant’s future, citing expected rapid improvement through a deep draft, potential league expansion to new markets, and the benefits and challenges of the PWHL’s single-owner model, while stressing the need for sustainable growth, better officiating, and careful expansion to preserve quality and player development. Throughout, they frame this first season as the foundation of something much larger for women’s sports in Seattle, urging fans not to be discouraged by early results and to recognize their role in building a long-term, community-rooted franchise.

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Heather Moonka lives in Seattle with her husband and their rescue dog. She has always loved sports, but has a true passion for women's sports and amplifying the voices of those in the space. She covers PWHL Seattle for The Hockey News- Women's and speaks passionately about the team on the @BTWSEA podcast.

Ava Wood founded 365 Hockey Girl to talk PWHL every day. Ava’s mission is to make women’s hockey accessible, inclusive, and fun. Follow 365 Hockey Girl on all social media but more importantly, subscribe to the 365 Hockey Girl newsletter here : https://tinyurl.com/5s6me9r6

____________________________________________________________

The Forecast is a Production of :

KVRU (https://www.kvru.org/shows/the-forecast/) & JEFFSCOTTSHAW

_____________________________________________________________

Executive Producer + Host // Maggie Mertens // Maggie@KVRU.org

Executive Producer // JEFFSCOTTSHAW // Jeff@KVRU.org

Additional Production Support Provided By // Crystal Fincher & Shannon Cheng & Maurice Jones Jr.

This episode of “The Forecast,” Seattle’s weekly women’s sports show on KVRU 105.7 FM, covers a packed spring weekend in which the city hosted professional women’s games in soccer (OL Reign vs. Utah Royals), hockey (PWHL Seattle Torrent), and basketball (Seattle Storm preseason vs. Golden State Valkyries), alongside University of Washington softball’s home series against UCLA.

Host Maggie Mertens and producer Jeff Shaw recap OL Reign’s 3–0 loss to Utah, which dropped the club to fourth in the NWSL table and was marred by an early defensive lapse and a concerning injury to retiring legend Jess Fishlock. They then highlight the Seattle Torrent’s sellout Pride Night at Climate Pledge Arena, noting that Seattle led the PWHL in average attendance at 12,426 fans and discussing how venue quality and in-city locations drive women’s sports support.

The show breaks down the Torrent’s season finale shootout loss to Montreal, the impact of the league’s “Gold Plan” anti-tanking draft system, and the uncertainty introduced by upcoming expansion teams on Seattle’s draft position. In a later roundtable, guests Heather Coy Moonka (The Hockey News) and Ava Wood (365 Hockey Girl) describe a pivotal late-season win over Minnesota, explain how the Gold Plan keeps eliminated teams competitive, and spotlight top 2025 draft prospects such as Layla Edwards and Caroline Harvey.

Coy Moonka and Wood emphasize the Torrent’s resilience, the consistently strong crowds that made Seattle the league’s attendance leader, and the sense that the franchise’s inaugural season is a success despite on-ice struggles, thanks to community connection and a promising draft class. They also highlight breakout performances from players like Michaela Grant-Mentis, Julia Gosling, and rookie goaltender Hannah Murphy, and reflect on emotional milestones such as the first home game, first home win, and first goal in Climate Pledge Arena.

On the basketball side, the episode analyzes the Storm’s first preseason game under new head coach Sonia Raman, focusing on an up-tempo style, widely distributed minutes, and a narrow last-second loss to the Valkyries. The hosts discuss injuries to key players (including Natisha Hiedeman, Katie Lou Samuelson, Jordan Horston, and Ezi Magbegor), the experimentation with lineups, as well as center Dom Malonga’s efficient scoring and rebounding.

The show also checks in on UW softball, noting that Washington was swept in a three-game home series by powerhouse UCLA, drawing about 5,700 fans over the weekend, dropping to fourth in the Big Ten and 22nd nationally, and likely losing the chance to host a super regional despite a strong, youth-driven season.

In her “hot take,” Mertens argues that Seattle is currently the best city in the United States—and possibly the world—for women’s sports, as the only city with all three major professional women’s leagues (WNBA, NWSL, PWHL) playing within city limits and in the same professional arenas as their male counterparts, often in front of sellout crowds. She frames this as the culmination of a long evolution from the early days when the Storm were the city’s lone women’s pro team, and invites both new and longtime fans to recognize and nurture this growing ecosystem.

The episode closes with a brief literary segment on runner Mary Cain’s new memoir about her experience as a teenage prodigy in Nike’s Oregon Project under coach Alberto Salazar, recommended for readers interested in women’s running and gender inequity in sport, followed by a rundown of upcoming local fixtures for the Storm, OL Reign, Seattle Majestics, and Seattle Tempest.

Episode Notes

0:00 - Weekly Sports Recap

32:30 - Maggie’s Hot Take

36:35 - Torrent 2026 Roundtable Recap with Heather Coy Moonka and Ava Wood

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Heather Moonka lives in Seattle with her husband and their rescue dog. She has always loved sports, but has a true passion for women's sports and amplifying the voices of those in the space. She covers PWHL Seattle for The Hockey News- Women's and speaks passionately about the team on the @BTWSEA podcast.

Ava Wood founded 365 Hockey Girl to talk PWHL every day. Ava’s mission is to make women’s hockey accessible, inclusive, and fun. Follow 365 Hockey Girl on all social media but more importantly, subscribe to the 365 Hockey Girl newsletter here : https://tinyurl.com/5s6me9r6

____________________________________________________________

The Forecast is a Production of :

KVRU (https://www.kvru.org/shows/the-forecast/) & JEFFSCOTTSHAW

_____________________________________________________________

Executive Producer + Host // Maggie Mertens // Maggie@KVRU.org

Executive Producer // JEFFSCOTTSHAW // Jeff@KVRU.org

Additional Production Support Provided By // Crystal Fincher & Shannon Cheng & Maurice Jones Jr.

This episode of “The Forecast,” Seattle’s weekly women’s sports show on KVRU 105.7 FM, is recorded at Seattle Storm Media Day and weaves together updates and analysis across Seattle’s women’s sports landscape, from hockey and soccer to ultimate frisbee and the WNBA. It opens with the Seattle Torrent’s elimination from PWHL playoff contention and an explanation of the league’s “gold plan” draft system, under which teams earn draft-order points only after they are mathematically eliminated, incentivizing competitive play through the end of the season. The show highlights a dramatic 6–5 overtime loss to Vancouver, the seven-goal third period, and goaltender Carly Jackson’s emotional first start and gratitude toward Seattle fans.

Host Maggie Mertens then surveys local results and schedules: OL Reign’s return from international break for a home match against the Utah Royals at Lumen Field, the Seattle Majestics’ narrow loss to Golden State Storm, and the Seattle Tempest’s record-setting 37–10 win over Utah Wild and strong position in the Western Ultimate League standings. Maggie recounts attending a cold, rainy U.S. Women’s National Team friendly against Japan at Lumen Field, where Emma Hayes experimented with a completely new starting XI in a 1–0 loss, yet Seattle still set a city record with 36,128 fans for a women’s sporting event. The following day’s She Believes Summit in Seattle is presented as a hub for national and local leaders to connect women’s sports to broader gender equity efforts, featuring conversations with Emma Hayes, Melinda French Gates, and hockey star Hilary Knight.

Through on-site interviews, the episode spotlights emerging infrastructure for women’s sport. Former Reign midfielder Rosie White, now engagement lead for the Kang Women’s Institute, describes US Soccer’s new research platform focused on improving standards for girls and women from grassroots to elite levels, including projects on soccer-specific dropout and standardized menstrual-cycle tracking to inform performance decisions. She emphasizes translating research into practical education for coaches, scouts, and players, and notes Washington’s high rate of female soccer coaches and Seattle’s strong culture of celebrating women’s sports. Reign chief business officer Maya Mendoza-Exstrom explains how the club is leveraging US Soccer partnerships, World Cup momentum, and a major forthcoming World Cup Fan Fest with the RAVE Foundation and Sounders, alongside an ambitious mini-pitch program that has already reached 52 free-play fields and aims for 100 by 2031, with a focus on keeping middle-school girls in soccer. She also details the club’s successful Spokane activation as a strategic foothold in Eastern Washington, generating new fans and merchandise demand.

The summit’s cross-sport lens is underscored by conversations with Seattle Storm chief social impact officer Sheridan Blanford and Seattle Sports Commission president and CEO Beth Knox. Blanford stresses that, amid national retrenchment around DEI, the Storm and WNBA are doubling down on caring for a diverse community, backed by a naturally diverse ownership, leadership, and coaching structure that reflects the team’s values and drives success. Knox frames Seattle as the only U.S. city with three major professional women’s teams and emphasizes storytelling, fan engagement, and grassroots connections as key to sustaining growth, arguing that fan power and lessons from women’s teams are influencing men’s franchises as well. The episode closes this segment by noting the Torrent’s full-team show of support for captain Hilary Knight at the summit, even after a late return from an elimination loss, and her stated goal of bringing a Walter Cup to Seattle.

In the second half, the show shifts to Storm Media Day, where Mertens and producer Jeff Shaw interpret the 2026 Seattle Storm as a near-expansion-style rebuild under new head coach Sonia Raman. They describe a deliberate culture reset after past locker-room tensions, with an emphasis on joy, accountability, and a versatile, position-flexible roster that may deploy an unconventional approach to the point guard role. The hosts highlight returning guard Jade Melbourne’s growth in basketball IQ and self-awareness, the enthusiasm and happiness of veteran guard Lexie Brown, and the potential of additions like Natisha Hiedeman, while acknowledging early-season uncertainty due to multiple players returning from injury and delayed arrivals from overseas commitments.

Player and coach audio deepens this portrait. Center Stephanie Dolson cites Seattle’s long-standing, loyal fan base and the franchise’s championship history as major draws, praises Jade Melbourne’s evolution from pure speed to better pacing and reads, and describes her own leadership style as a mix of “mama bear” and demanding competitiveness, balanced by an emphasis on joy. Guard Natisha Hiedeman emphasizes the team’s good people, high energy, youth, and her readiness to embrace whatever role is needed, noting that conversations with Raman and GM Talisa Rhea made her feel genuinely wanted in Seattle. Rookie Flau’jae Johnson recounts the surprise of her draft-night trade, contrasts Raman’s calm style with former college coach Kim Mulkey, and praises Seattle’s player-first environment, free-flowing, IQ-driven system, and the franchise’s storied history as motivation to help restore championship standards.She also shares a philosophy of visible confidence—“walk in the door like you’re supposed to be there”—as a tool for young athletes.

Forward Jordan Horston reflects on returning from an ACL tear with deep gratitude, explaining how the injury forced her to rediscover her identity beyond basketball, study the game from a new vantage point, and build habits and body awareness she believes will benefit her long-term.She describes a collaborative leadership model in which every player, including rookies, has a voice in a new system that requires collective responsibility rather than a single dominant leader. Coach Sonia Raman outlines her vision of relationship-based, high-expectation coaching that centers players’ motivations and “superpowers,” combining positivity and growth mindset with hard coaching and accountability. She sees no fixed ceiling for this young group, instead focusing on daily growth toward a style built on controlled pace, ball movement, and defensive stops.

The episode concludes by previewing the Storm’s rapid ramp-up: a preseason opener against the Golden State Valkyries, a home preseason game versus the expansion Portland Fire at Climate Pledge Arena, and a May 8 regular-season home opener against the Valkyries, all coming just days after the WNBA draft and the start of training camp. Across its segments, the show positions Seattle as a national leader in women’s sports, blending game coverage, structural analysis, and on-the-ground voices to illustrate how local teams, institutions, and fans are collectively building the future of women’s athletics.

Episode Notes

0:00 - Weekly Sports Recap

14:01 - Maggie at the SheBelieves Summit

15:04 - Interview with Rosie White - Kang Women’s Institute

20:01 - Interview with Maya Mendoza-Estrom - Seattle Reign

26:31 - Interview with Sheridan Blanford - Seattle Storm

29:31 - Interview with Beth Knox - Seattle Sports Commission

33:09 - Live from Seattle Storm Media Day 2026

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The Forecast is a Production of :

KVRU (https://www.kvru.org/shows/the-forecast/) & JEFFSCOTTSHAW

_____________________________________________________________

Executive Producer + Host // Maggie Mertens // Maggie@KVRU.org

Executive Producer // JEFFSCOTTSHAW // Jeff@KVRU.org

Additional Production Support Provided By // Crystal Fincher & Shannon Cheng & Maurice Jones Jr.

April 14th, 2026 Episode Summary

The episode of “The Forecast,” Seattle’s weekly women’s sports show on KVRU 105.7 FM, covers a packed slate of women’s sports stories recorded on WNBA Draft Day 2026. Host Maggie Mertens and producer Jeff Shaw begin with updates from the NCBA Boxing National Championships, highlighting University of Washington boxers Apple Tran’s semifinal run and Jill Doucet’s national title at 125 pounds, along with Doucet being named best female boxer of the tournament and the importance of a collegiate program that embraces her individual style.

They then debrief the NCAA women’s basketball tournament, focusing on UCLA’s championship, Cori Close’s long-term program-building, and the value of a veteran, cohesive roster. The discussion centers on Lauren Betts’ WNBA potential, the difficulty of transitioning from college to the ultra-competitive WNBA, and why UCLA’s team-oriented excellence drew less attention than star-driven programs like UConn and South Carolina. They also critique Geno Auriemma’s behavior and comments around the tournament, praising Dawn Staley’s response and noting how ESPN’s postgame coverage signaled a new level of serious, critical analysis for women’s basketball.

The show moves through a rapid local and national roundup: the PWHL’s Seattle-based Torrent remain at the bottom of the table despite a recent win over Ottawa, in what has still been a breakthrough year for women’s hockey; OL Reign (referred to as Seattle Reign) sit at 3–1–1 after a scoreless draw with expansion side Denver Summit and prepare for their true home opener at Lumen Field on April 26. The hosts preview the U.S. Women’s National Team’s friendly against Japan in Seattle, where organizers hope to break the attendance record previously set at Megan Rapinoe’s farewell match. They also spotlight UW softball’s undefeated Big Ten start, a sweep of Minnesota, and a deep, team-first roster that could position the Huskies to host a super regional if they can take a home series from UCLA.

In the WNBA segment, Mertens shares insider gossip that the Seattle Storm’s new coach, Sonia Raman, and ownership are pursuing a youth-focused rebuild. The team has moved on from veterans Nneka Ogwumike, Skylar Diggins, and Gabby Williams, and is tentatively building around Dominique Malonga (“Dom”), Ezi Magbegor, Jordan Horston, and a young core, while rumors swirl about a possible sign-and-trade involving Magbegor. The hosts note re-signings like Jade Melbourne and Katie Lou Samuelson, express skepticism about some free agency choices, and contrast the Storm’s uncertain direction with aggressive, well-funded moves by franchises like the Sparks, Aces, and Liberty under the new CBA.

The second half of the episode shifts on-site to a packed WNBA Draft watch party at Rough & Tumble, a women’s sports bar in Seattle’s Columbia City neighborhood, where fans react live to the Storm’s draft decisions. After Minnesota selects Olivia Miles at No. 2, thwarting widespread expectations that Seattle would take her to fill a glaring need at point guard, the Storm surprise the room by drafting big Awa Fam at No. 3, adding to a frontcourt already featuring Ezi Magbegor, Dom Malonga, Stephanie Dolson, and the tall, versatile Jordan Horston. Mertens and fans express confusion about the team’s guard situation and overall direction, even as the bar’s atmosphere remains enthusiastic about women’s basketball more broadly.

The Storm’s later first-round pick of Duke’s Taina Mair at No. 14 deepens the hosts’ skepticism, as they note that she was not in the green room and that more highly touted prospects like Marta Suárez and Dorka Juhász (referred to as “Nepkins”) were still available. Mertens questions the front office’s decision-making and warns that if these choices don’t pan out, the general manager’s strategy will face serious scrutiny, even as she allows that Raman may be executing a “moneyball”-style, system-driven plan focused on defense, rebounding, and fit over star power.

A late-breaking trade dramatically reshapes the narrative: after the recording, the Storm deal Marta Suárez and a 2028 second-round pick to the Valkyries for LSU star guard and rapper Flau’jae Johnson. Mertens reports that the bar erupted when the news hit and describes Johnson as a true point guard, dynamic personality, and culture-builder who fills Seattle’s most pressing positional need and instantly makes the roster more balanced and exciting. The hosts close by reflecting on how this move, combined with the young international frontcourt, could form the foundation of a fun, competitive future Storm team, while promising to unpack further developments in the next episode.

Episode Notes

0:00 - Weekly Sports Recap

32:50 - LIVE 2026 Draft Night Coverage from Rough & Tumble Columbia City\

_________________________________________________________

The Forecast is a Production of :

KVRU (https://www.kvru.org/shows/the-forecast/) & JEFFSCOTTSHAW

_____________________________________________________________

Executive Producer + Host // Maggie Mertens // Maggie@KVRU.org

Executive Producer // JEFFSCOTTSHAW // Jeff@KVRU.org

Additional Production Support Provided By // Crystal Fincher & Shannon Cheng & Maurice Jones Jr.

This episode of “The Forecast,” Seattle’s weekly women’s sports show on KVRU 105.7 FM, spotlights the University of Washington’s student-run boxing club through in-depth conversations with boxers Apple Tran and team president Jill Doucet ahead of the National Collegiate Boxing Association (NCBA) National Championships, held April 9–11. Tran, a former varsity soccer player with no prior boxing experience, describes being drawn in by the team’s “one team, one family” culture and positive mindset, ultimately finding a strong athletic identity and rapid growth in a sport whose physical intensity soon became “normal.” She recounts mixed but evolving family reactions—hesitant parents, enthusiastic siblings, and a grandfather who supports her self-defense skills—and emphasizes focusing on progress over medals, echoing her coaches’ philosophy.

Doucet, who began boxing at 12 in Canada following her mother into the sport, explains how she deliberately chose UW for its boxing program and transitioned from casual youth competition, through a COVID break, into serious collegiate boxing. She trains with the team up to five days a week, sometimes twice a day, while balancing full-time studies, a part-time job, and leadership responsibilities as club president, including coordinating facilities after their home gym closed. Doucet, last year’s NCBA silver medalist and this year’s regional champion, approaches nationals with a process-focused mindset, aiming to enjoy the tournament and measure success by performance quality rather than medals, in a format that can require up to three consecutive days of bouts.

The episode highlights the rarity and value of women’s boxing—still relatively new on the Olympic stage—and the small but growing cohort of eight women among roughly 55 UW boxers. Doucet describes both past gendered stereotypes and the importance of having female teammates and shared travel experiences, even as the women are heavily outnumbered. She notes that UW’s program, one of the earliest to train men and women together without gender-based separation, emphasizes a culture of “fit, one team, and grit,” selecting and developing boxers based on heart, determination, and cultural fit rather than prior experience—an approach that has produced national champions from complete beginners.

Both interviews underscore the club’s deep sense of community: athletes train and spar across genders, receive individualized coaching, and travel as a tight-knit group that provides intense ringside support, including large crowds of teammates surrounding boxers before marquee bouts at venues like the Washington Athletic Club. Doucet frames representing the university in collegiate boxing as uniquely meaningful compared to traditional amateur circuits and notes that the long-established UW program has built a durable system and culture that many in the broader community still don’t know exists. The episode closes by directing listeners to the NCBA website for live streams and bout sheets to follow Tran and Ducey at nationals, and by inviting local women’s sports fans to connect with “The Forecast” via radio, podcast platforms, email, and Instagram.

Episode Notes

1:00 - Interview with UW Boxing Apple Tran 2026 USIBA 125lb National Champion

10:54 - Interview with Jill Doucet NCBA 2025 Runner Up and 2026 125lb National Champion

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Apple Tran is a sophomore at the University of Washington and in her second year of boxing on UW’s Boxing Team. Apple is the current 125lb USIBA National Champion and finished as a semi finalist at the 2026 NCBA National Championships.

Jill Doucet is a Junior at the University of Washington and in her third year boxing on UW’s Boxing Team. Jill was the 2025 USIBA National Champion at 125lb, the runner up at the 2025 NCBA National Championships, and the new current 2026 NCBA National Champion at 125lb. She also was awarded the “Female Boxer of the Tournament” at the 2026 NCBA National Championships.

____________________________________________________________

The Forecast is a Production of :

KVRU (https://www.kvru.org/shows/the-forecast/) & JEFFSCOTTSHAW

_____________________________________________________________

Executive Producer + Host // Maggie Mertens // Maggie@KVRU.org

Executive Producer // JEFFSCOTTSHAW // Jeff@KVRU.org

Additional Production Support Provided By // Crystal Fincher & Shannon Cheng & Maurice Jones Jr.

This episode of KVRU’s “The Forecast,” Seattle’s weekly women’s sports show hosted by journalist Maggie Mertens, opens with a focus on local women’s teams, including the PWHL’s Seattle Torrent, NWSL’s Seattle Reign, the Seattle Majestics, and Seattle Tempest, while largely eschewing men’s sports coverage. Mertens recaps the Torrent’s week: a 4–1 win over the New York Sirens in Chicago that snapped a four-game losing streak, followed by a deflating 2–0 home loss to the Ottawa Charge despite a crowd of over 16,000 on youth hockey night and a standout 27-save performance from goalie Corinne Schroeder. The Torrent remain last in the league with 22 points, five points behind Vancouver, and are nearing mathematical elimination even as they continue to draw some of the PWHL’s largest crowds.

The show then highlights the Seattle Reign’s “home away from home” series in Spokane, where they beat reigning NWSL Shield winners Kansas City Current 3–0 and followed with a 2–1 win over Racing Louisville, signaling a promising offensive resurgence after recent struggles. Mertens also notes the Seattle Majestics’ 41–2 loss in their season opener and previews their upcoming games, along with schedules for the Torrent, Reign, Majestics, Seattle Tempest ultimate, the U.S. Women’s National Team friendly vs. Japan, and a 20-game win streak by UW softball.

In a March Madness segment, the hosts discuss key NCAA women’s games, including Notre Dame’s upset of Vanderbilt and Duke’s last-second win over LSU, and debate WNBA draft prospects such as Olivia Miles, Lauren Betts, Kiki Rice, Madison Booker, and others as potential fits for the Seattle Storm. They frame the tournament as a scouting opportunity ahead of a highly anticipated WNBA draft and note the growing strategic importance of coaching and player development at both college and pro levels.

The episode’s second half features an in-depth interview with Defector staff writer Maitreyi Anantharaman about the WNBA’s new collective bargaining agreement (CBA) and the broader “big business” moment for women’s basketball. Anantharaman explains how the new CBA, negotiated after players opted out of the 2020 deal, finally ties salaries to league revenue—though at roughly 20% rather than the 40% players initially sought—marking a historic shift from previously arbitrary salary caps. She highlights wins around improved facilities and minimum standards for training and medical support, while noting owners gain more games, expanded use of player data, and potential draft combine structures.The conversation also addresses opaque league finances, the growing importance of media rights, the challenges and benefits of NBA-linked versus independent ownership models, and how rising operating costs may affect teams like the locally owned Seattle Storm, who have already sold minority stakes to fund a practice facility.

They also discuss Seattle’s new head coach, Sonia Raman—formerly of the Liberty, MIT, and with NBA bench experience—as a significant hire and a promising fit for a Storm roster that will at least be anchored by rising star Dominique Malonga. The episode closes with reflections on Seattle as a robust multi-sport market where women’s teams like the PWHL Torrent and WNBA Storm can thrive alongside men’s franchises, and with a preview of Anantharaman’s forthcoming book, a year-in-the-life narrative about how the rapid commercialization of women’s basketball is reshaping players’ careers, identities, and daily realities.

Episode Notes

0:00 - Weekly Sports Recap

24:58 - Interview with Maitreyi Anantharaman

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Maitreyi Anantharaman is a writer from Michigan. She covers the WNBA and other sports as a staff writer at Defector. She’s studied Angel Reese’s knack for offensive rebounding up close in Chicago; heard Sabrina Ionescu hush a Finals crowd in Minneapolis; watched Paige Bueckers, Azzi Fudd and the UConn Huskies cut down the nets in Tampa; and reported from the media circus at Caitlin Clark’s Indiana home debut. Her writing about the WNBA has been anthologized in the 2025 edition of The Year’s Best Sports Writing. She’s at work on a book about the rapid cultural rise of women’s basketball and its young superstars for Dutton/Penguin Random House. She lives in Chicago.

____________________________________________________________

The Forecast is a Production of :

KVRU (https://www.kvru.org/shows/the-forecast/) & JEFFSCOTTSHAW

_____________________________________________________________

Executive Producer + Host // Maggie Mertens // Maggie@KVRU.org

Executive Producer // JEFFSCOTTSHAW // Jeff@KVRU.org

Additional Production Support Provided By // Crystal Fincher & Shannon Cheng & Maurice Jones Jr.

Most people still think women can't or don't play tackle football — Odessa Jenkins breaks down why that narrative is wrong and how she's transforming the game for women. If you've ever wondered why women are marginalized in sports, or how underserved women athletes truly are, this episode is a must-listen.Odessa, founder and CEO of the Women’s National Football Conference (WNFC), reveals her journey from childhood football dreams to building a league that now features the best women players on the planet. She shares vivid stories of fighting for recognition and resources, the grueling reality of playing in underfunded leagues—on Holy Grass fields, with donated equipment, and little visibility—and how she turned her passion into a movement that’s changing perceptions of women in football.We break down the strategies behind scaling a professional women’s league, including the surge in talent, increasing media exposure — over 100 million digital impressions last year alone and national TV on ESPN2. Odessa shares how the league aims to accelerate women's financial equity through football and why challenging the status quo is essential for genuine progress. You’ll discover why flag football is just the start and how women’s strength, both physical and mental, is reshaping notions of femininity in sports.This isn’t just about football — it’s a movement toward breaking barriers, rethinking femininity, and creating opportunities that empower women to claim their space in the most physical game of all. If you believe women should be paid, seen, and heard in sports, this episode will inspire you to see the potential in women who are redefining strength and resilience.Perfect for sports fans, entrepreneurs, gender equity advocates, and anyone hungry for stories of empowering change. Odessa's insights reveal why women’s football is on the brink of a revolution—and how you can be part of it.

In this episode:

1. Odessa shares her childhood love for tackle football and how she belonged in the sport while defying societal expectations
2. The evolution of women’s tackle football from neighborhood games to organized leagues with professional ambitions
3. The challenges of playing football with limited resources and community building in the league’s early days
4. How the NFL's flag football initiatives both help and hinder the growth of women’s tackle football
5. The WNFC’s current state: growth metrics, talent caliber, media visibility, and sponsorship success
6. Odessa’s vision to accelerate financial and cultural equity for women through football
7. The importance of challenging athletes, especially women, to embrace their strength and versatility
8. Opportunities for women athletes in Seattle and the challenge to show up for the sport
9. A call for investment and support in women’s football as a burgeoning business opportunity

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Odessa OJ Jenkins was born and raised in South Central Los Angeles, overcame early challenges, including the tragic loss of her brother to gang violence, to become a top high school athlete, earning a Division 1 scholarship to Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. She began her career in sales before transitioning to a decade-long tenure in healthcare technology with Medco Health Solutions (Express Scripts). In 2008, Jenkins entered women’s football, where she quickly rose to prominence, being named the #1 running back in the world and leading Team USA to multiple world championships. She returned to coaching and team ownership in 2014, co-founding the Texas Elite Spartans and later the Women’s National Football Conference (WNFC), which broke barriers as the first women’s tackle football league sponsored by major global sports brands like Adidas and Riddell. Under her leadership, the WNFC rapidly grew, accelerating women’s tackle football toward professionalism. Today, Jenkins is a sought-after keynote speaker and coach, mentoring leaders in sports and corporate environments on building diverse and inclusive teams.

Follow OJ on Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/ojthejuice03

Connect with OJ on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/odessajenkins/

____________________________________________________________

The Forecast is a Production of :

KVRU (https://www.kvru.org/shows/the-forecast/) & JEFFSCOTTSHAW

_____________________________________________________________

Executive Producer + Host // Maggie Mertens // Maggie@KVRU.org

Executive Producer // JEFFSCOTTSHAW // Jeff@KVRU.org

Additional Production Support Provided By // Crystal Fincher & Shannon Cheng & Maurice Jones Jr.

The discussion centers around the excitement of March Madness, with a focus on potential upsets and Cinderella stories. The panelists express their predictions and preferences for the tournament, highlighting teams like South Carolina, UCLA, and UConn as strong contenders. They also discuss the potential of the University of Washington and other teams like Texas and Iowa State, with a particular interest in standout players such as Audi Crooks.

The conversation touches on the growth of women's basketball and the increasing popularity of filling out brackets, which has become a fun and engaging way for fans to participate in the tournament. The panelists share personal anecdotes about their experiences with March Madness and the joy of watching games with family and friends.

In conclusion, the panelists make their final predictions for the tournament, with Angela Garbes backing Iowa State for an upset against UConn, Jen Barnes supporting South Carolina, Kristen Tollefsen favoring UCLA, and Maggie Mertens rooting for Texas.

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Angela Garbes is a writer based in Seattle, Washington, where she lives with her family on Beacon Hill. She’s the author of the national bestseller Essential Labor, called “a landmark and a lightning storm, a gift that will be passed hand to hand for years,” by The New Yorker. You can watch Angela discuss Essential Labor and the value of domestic work on The Daily Show with Trevor Noah or listen to her conversation with Terry Gross on Fresh Air. Angela is also a HUGE basketball fan and closely watching Iowa State and Audi Crooks this tournament.

Jen Barnes is the founder and CEO of Rough & Tumble, the world’s first company purpose-built to promote gender equity in sports viewing and fandom. Since launching in 2022, she has led Rough & Tumble to become a national leader in the women’s sports sector—transforming how we watch, celebrate, and come together around the game.

With over 25 years of experience building vibrant, award-winning companies, Jen brings deep entrepreneurial expertise and a lifelong passion for sports and equity. A former athlete and avid fan, she most recently partnered with NWSL players and WNBA owners to co-found Salmon Bay FC, Seattle’s first pre-professional women’s soccer team—expanding opportunities for women athletes and fans alike.

Kristen Tollefsen is a local educator who has 15+ years of experience building relationships with students and families and fighting for a more inclusive educational experience. Kristen is also a HUGE college basketball fan, has coached high school basketball, and currently covers UW Husky Women’s Basketball for the UW Dawg Pound on SB Nation.

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The Forecast is a Production of :

KVRU (https://www.kvru.org/shows/the-forecast/) & JEFFSCOTTSHAW

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Executive Producer + Host // Maggie Mertens // Maggie@KVRU.org

Executive Producer // JEFFSCOTTSHAW // Jeff@KVRU.org

Additional Production Support Provided By // Crystal Fincher & Shannon Cheng & Maurice Jones Jr.

The Forecast is Seattle's weekly women's sports show on KBRU 1057FM, hosted by Maggie Mertens, an independent journalist, and produced by Jeff Scott Shaw. On this week’s episode Ava Wood from 365 Hockey Girl joins the show to discuss the Seattle Torrent's recent games, including a win against the Boston Fleet and losses to Minnesota Frost and Toronto Sceptres, highlighting key players like Alex Carpenter and Danielle Serdachny. The show also covered the Rain's season opener win against Orlando Pride, with standout performances from Jess Fishlock and Brittany Ratcliff. Additionally, the University of Washington's softball coach Heather Tarr joins the show after their recent sweep against Maryland and their upcoming challenges in the Big 10 conference. The episode also touched on broader sports topics, such as the ongoing WNBA CBA negotiations and the FIBA World Cup qualifying tournament. The Forecast airs on Tuesdays and Wednesdays and is available on podcast platforms.

Episode Notes

1:37 - Seattle Torrent Recap with Ava Wood from 365 Hockey Girl

13:35 - Seattle Women’s Weekly Sports Scores Recap

26:24 - Jeff’s Hot Take

33:45 - Interview with UW Softball Coach Heather Tarr

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Ava Wood founded 365 Hockey Girl to talk PWHL every day. Ava’s mission is to make women’s hockey accessible, inclusive, and fun. Follow 365 Hockey Girl on all social media but more importantly, subscribe to the 365 Hockey Girl newsletter here : https://tinyurl.com/5s6me9r6

Heather Tarr Heather Tarr enters her 22nd season at the helm of the Washington softball program in 2025-26 as the Huskies enter their second year in the Big Ten Conference. She was named head coach in July 2004.

A native of Redmond, Washington, Tarr returned to the Huskies as the head coach in 2005 and has gone on to become the winningest coach of any sport in Washington history with an 845-332-1 record at the beginning of the 2026 season. Her .720 winning percentage is 11th most among active DI softball head coaches following the conclusion of the 2025 season.

____________________________________________________________

The Forecast is a Production of :

KVRU (https://www.kvru.org/shows/the-forecast/) & JEFFSCOTTSHAW

_____________________________________________________________

Executive Producer + Host // Maggie Mertens // Maggie@KVRU.org

Executive Producer // JEFFSCOTTSHAW // Jeff@KVRU.org

Additional Production Support Provided By // Crystal Fincher & Shannon Cheng & Maurice Jones Jr.

With WNBA CBA talks still in progress we spoke with Jeff Brown from Storm Chasers and wanted to air the full extended interview.

Jeff Brown, a seasoned journalist, has been covering the Seattle Storm since 2015, initially for SB Nation and later through his independent newsletter, Storm Chasers. The discussion highlights the ongoing complexities in the WNBA's collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations, primarily centered around revenue sharing. Players are pushing for a higher percentage of gross revenue, while owners are offering a smaller share, leading to a significant gap in negotiations. The WNBA's growth is evident, with increased media attention and a lucrative TV deal, which has prompted players to seek fair compensation. Despite challenges, including the potential for a shortened season due to unresolved CBA issues, the league's expansion with new teams like the Portland Fire and Toronto Tempo is underway.

The Seattle Storm faces uncertainty with many players as free agents, but promising young talents like Dominique Malonga and Jordan Horston offer hope for the future. The Storm's new coach, Sonia Raman, brings a fresh perspective, having previously coached at the collegiate level and served as an assistant in the WNBA and NBA. The conversation also touches on the broader media landscape and the role of increased exposure in the WNBA's growth. Jeff Brown's insights provide a comprehensive overview of the current state and future prospects of the Seattle Storm and the WNBA.

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Jeff Brown has been covering the Seattle Storm since 2015. Storm Chasers is dedicated to covering the 4-time WNBA Champion Seattle Storm and the WNBA league overall. Aiming to be the very best media coverage for the Storm. You can follow and support Jeff’s coverage by subscribing on substack https://stormchaserswnba.substack.com/ or by following on X : https://x.com/wnbastormchaser

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The Forecast is a Production of :

KVRU (https://www.kvru.org/shows/the-forecast/) & JEFFSCOTTSHAW

_____________________________________________________________

Executive Producer + Host // Maggie Mertens // Maggie@KVRU.org

Executive Producer // JEFFSCOTTSHAW // Jeff@KVRU.org

Additional Production Support Provided By // Crystal Fincher & Shannon Cheng & Maurice Jones Jr.

In a recent episode, the hosts discussed the She Believes Cup, highlighting the USA's performance and the contributions of players like Rose Lavelle and Alyssa Thompson. The show also covered the Torrent's recent game against the Ottawa Charge, where Alex Carpenter made history with the first-ever penalty shot in PWHL history. Additionally, the University of Washington softball team is on a winning streak, having recently swept Northwestern and The Forecast previews an interview with coach Heather Tarr that will play in it’s entirety next week . The show also touched on the Seattle Reign's upcoming season, with insights from Susie Rantz, a writer covering the . The Reign for Sounder At Heart.

Episode Notes

0:00 - Weekly Sports Recap

20:46 - Maggie’s Hot Take

24:43 - Interview preview with University of Washington Softball Coach Heather Tarr

28:08 - Interview with Susie Rantz from Sounder At Heart

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Heather Tarr Heather Tarr enters her 22nd season at the helm of the Washington softball program in 2025-26 as the Huskies enter their second year in the Big Ten Conference. She was named head coach in July 2004.

A native of Redmond, Washington, Tarr returned to the Huskies as the head coach in 2005 and has gone on to become the winningest coach of any sport in Washington history with an 845-332-1 record at the beginning of the 2026 season. Her .720 winning percentage is 11th most among active DI softball head coaches following the conclusion of the 2025 season.

Susie Rantz is a self proclaimed nerd, storyteller, and soccer fan. Susie writes mostly about the Seattle Reign and women’s soccer for Sounder At Heart : www.sounderatheart.com/author/susie/

____________________________________________________________

The Forecast is a Production of :

KVRU (https://www.kvru.org/shows/the-forecast/) & JEFFSCOTTSHAW

_____________________________________________________________

Executive Producer + Host // Maggie Mertens // Maggie@KVRU.org

Executive Producer // JEFFSCOTTSHAW // Jeff@KVRU.org

Additional Production Support Provided By // Crystal Fincher & Shannon Cheng & Maurice Jones Jr.

To kick off the first episode in March, Maggie and Jeff cover a range of topics related to women's sports in Seattle, focusing on the Seattle Torrent and the WNBA. Megan Rapinoe’s heartfelt speech welcoming the Torrance Olympians back to Seattle opens the episode, highlighting their inspiring performance and the impact on future generations.

The second half of the episode discusses the WNBA's ongoing CBA negotiations, focusing on revenue sharing and the potential impact on the upcoming season. Jeff Brown from Storm Chasers provides insights into the Seattle Storm's potential roster changes and the broader WNBA landscape, noting the league's growth and the challenges of the current CBA negotiations.

Episode Notes

0:00 - Weekly Sports Recap

25:13 - Maggie’s Hot Take

28:42 - Interview with Storm Chasers’ Jeff Brown

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Jeff Brown runs Storm Chasers and is dedicated to covering the 4-time WNBA Champion Seattle Storm and the WNBA league overall. Aiming to be the very best media coverage for the Storm.

Substack : https://substack.com/@stormchaserswnba

Twitters : https://x.com/WNBAStormChaser

____________________________________________________________

The Forecast is a Production of :

KVRU (https://www.kvru.org/shows/the-forecast/) & JEFFSCOTTSHAW

_____________________________________________________________

Executive Producer + Host // Maggie Mertens // Maggie@KVRU.org

Executive Producer // JEFFSCOTTSHAW // Jeff@KVRU.org

Additional Production Support Provided By // Crystal Fincher & Shannon Cheng & Maurice Jones Jr.

In the latest episode, Maggie and Jeff discuss the impact of the Winter Olympics, highlighting the dominance and cultural significance of women athletes. They celebrate achievements such as Alyssa Liu's gold medal in figure skating and the US women's hockey team's victory, which included Seattle Torrent players. The show also covers the progress of women's sports leagues like the PWHL and the excitement surrounding the Seattle Torrent's inaugural season.

The second half of the episode features interviews with Torrent season ticket holders Em Richardson and Henry Elliott and local journalist Heather Moonka, who discuss the community's enthusiasm for women's hockey and the inclusive, welcoming atmosphere at games. The show concludes with a preview of upcoming events, including the return of the PWHL and the Unrivaled Playoff series.

Episode Notes

0:00 - Weekly Sports Recap

17:48 - Maggie’s Hot Take

24:45 - Interview with Torrent Season Ticket Holders Em Richardson & Henry Elliott

41:05 - Interview with Heather Moonka from The Hockey News

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Heather Moonka lives in Seattle with her husband and their rescue dog. She has always loved sports, but has a true passion for women's sports and amplifying the voices of those in the space. She covers PWHL Seattle for The Hockey News- Women's and speaks passionately about the team on the @BTWSEA podcast.

____________________________________________________________

The Forecast is a Production of :

KVRU (https://www.kvru.org/shows/the-forecast/) & JEFFSCOTTSHAW

_____________________________________________________________

Executive Producer + Host // Maggie Mertens // Maggie@KVRU.org

Executive Producer // JEFFSCOTTSHAW // Jeff@KVRU.org

Additional Production Support Provided By // Crystal Fincher & Shannon Cheng & Maurice Jones Jr.

KVRU 1057's "The Forecast" is a Seattle-based weekly sports show dedicated to women's sports, hosted by Maggie Mertens. The show aims to shift the focus from traditionally male-dominated sports coverage to highlight local women's teams such as the Seattle Storm, Salmon Bay FC, the Seattle Reign, and the Seattle Majestics, among others. Maggie, a seasoned journalist, alongside producer Jeff Scott Shaw, is committed to making women's sports the main event, providing in-depth interviews and discussions on the latest scores and headlines.

This week's show highlights include discussions on Seattle's connections to Team USA at the Olympics, hot takes on ski jumping, and interviews with Anna Gibson, an Olympian in ski mountaineering, and Latoya Brackett, a professor discussing athletes and protest.

The show also covers the performance of the University of Washington's women's basketball team, which recently won against the University of Oregon despite scoring below their usual winning threshold. In contrast, Team USA's women's hockey team is highlighted for their dominant performance at the Olympics, having given up only one goal throughout the tournament.

Anna Gibson, a former track star, is making her Olympic debut in ski mountaineering, a new event at the Winter Games. She shares her journey from trail running to competing in this challenging sport. The show also discusses the historical context of athlete protests, featuring insights from Dr. Latoya Brackett on the impact of protests by Black athletes, such as the iconic 1968 Olympic protest by Tommy Smith and John Carlos.

The episode concludes with a focus on upcoming events, including the gold medal match for Team USA women's hockey and Anna Gibson's participation in the ski mountaineering mixed relay.

Episode Notes

0:00 - Weekly Sports Recap

11:37 - Interview with USA Ski Mountaineering Olympian Anna Gibson

24:54 - Maggie’s Hot Take : “Women’s Ski Jumping and Nordic Combined Inclusion”

24:54 - Interview with USA Olympic Speed Skater Eunice Lee

36:35 - Interview with Latoya Brackett on “When Black Athletes Speak Up” and Olympic Activism

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Anna Gibson was raised in Jackson, Wyoming. She won 17 overall Wyoming state titles in three sports: track, cross country, and Nordic skiing, while also being named the valedictorian of her high school class.

Gibson attended the University of Washington, focusing on cross country and track and field, excelling especially in middle-distance running. In 2024, she made the 1500m semifinal at the U.S. Olympic Trials. The following year, Gibson would win a bronze medal in the women’s uphill 6km event while representing Team USA at the World Mountain and Trail Running World Championships.

She was recruited to the U.S. ski mountaineering team by 13-time national champion Cam Smith because of her background in Nordic Skiing and track and field. In her first-ever World Cup race, Gibson, alongside Smith, became the first American team ever to win a mixed relay World Cup event. By winning the race, they qualified the U.S. for an Olympic berth at the Winter Olympics Milano Cortina 2026 where SkiMo will make its Winter Games debut.

Gibson, after winning her first race: “It feels so normal to be here, which is crazy, because this is my first one. It just feels right you know?. I’m all about this sport. This is so fun. I’m not about to stop doing anything else I’m doing, but there will be lots more of this in my future.”

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/annaagibsonn

Website : https://www.teamusa.com/profiles/anna-gibson

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LaToya Brackett is an associate professor of African American studies at the University of Puget Sound, where she also serves as a member of the leadership team for the Race & Pedagogy Institute. A scholar with two degrees in Black studies, one from Cornell University and the other from Michigan State, she is an interdisciplinarian who centers the Black experience.

Website : https://www.latoyabrackett.com/

Instagram : www.instagram.com/blacktaxtic_msadventures

Humanities Washington Speakers Bureau : https://www.humanities.org/speaker/latoya-brackett-2/

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The Forecast is a Production of :

KVRU (https://www.kvru.org/shows/the-forecast/) & JEFFSCOTTSHAW

_____________________________________________________________

Executive Producer + Host // Maggie Mertens // Maggie@KRVU.org

Executive Producer // JEFFSCOTTSHAW // Jeff@KVRU.org

Additional Production Support Provided By // Crystal Fincher & Shannon Cheng & Maurice Jones Jr.

KVRU 1057's "The Forecast" is a Seattle-based weekly sports show dedicated to women's sports, hosted by Maggie Mertens. The show aims to shift the focus from traditionally male-dominated sports coverage to highlight local women's teams such as the Seattle Storm, Salmon Bay FC, the Seattle Reign, and the Seattle Majestics, among others. Maggie, a seasoned journalist, alongside producer Jeff Scott Shaw, is committed to making women's sports the main event, providing in-depth interviews and discussions on the latest scores and headlines. Overall, "The Forecast" provides a comprehensive look at women's sports in Seattle, combining sports coverage with cultural and social commentary, aiming to engage and inform its audience

The introductory show covers a wide range of topics, including the performance of Seattle athletes in the Winter Olympics, with notable mentions of the Seattle Torrent players' contributions to Team USA's victories. Additionally, the program discusses the University of Washington Huskies' basketball season and the challenges they face in the competitive landscape.

Maggie delves into the Unrivaled basketball tournament, highlighting the performances of various teams and players, including the Breeze and their coach Noelle Quinn. The show addresses broader issues in sports, such as the impact of political activism by athletes and the ongoing negotiations in the WNBA.

In the first interview of the second segment, Maggie interviews local short track Olympian Eunice Lee who got her speedskating start with the Puget Sound Speed Skating Club. Eunice will compete in the women’s 3000 meter relay on Saturday February 14th.

In the final segment, journalist Frankie De La Cretaz joins the show and explores the complexities of the PWHL's growth, including the challenges of maintaining safe and inclusive environments for fans amidst increasing mainstream attention. The discussion also touches on the financial and ethical considerations of league ownership and the importance of supporting players over franchises.

Episode Notes

0:00 - Weekly Sports Recap

17:25 - Jeff’s Hot Take : “No WNBA Season”

19:45 - Maggie’s Hot Take : “USA Olympic Athletes Speaking Out”

23:30 - Interview with USA Olympic Speed Skater Eunice Lee

31:38 - Maggie’s Seattle Torrent Game Experience

37:21 - Interview with Frankie De La Cretaz - PWHL & Activism

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Eunice Lee grew up in Bellevue, Washington, and when she moved there at age 6 from South Korea, she joined her brother and sister in speedskating at her local club, Puget Sound Speedskating Club.

Eleven years later, she was the youngest speedskater, at only age 17, named to the U.S. speedskating team for the Beijing Games. Lee was the relay team’s backup and did not compete in Beijing. Two years at the 2024 world championships, she was a part of the U.S. relay team that won a world championships silver medal, the first world medal for the American women in this event since 2012.

Lee missed the following season with an ankle injury before returning to represent the U.S. during the 2025-2026 ISU Short Track World Tour and helped the U.S. women finish third at the last stop in Dordrecht, Netherlands, to qualify a relay team for the Milano Cortina 2026.

Off the ice, Lee attends Duke, where she is studying chemistry and biology on a pre-med track.

Instagram : https://www.instagram.com/lee_eunice_

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Frankie De La Cretaz is a freelance writer whose work sits at the intersection of sports, gender, culture, and queerness. Their writing is a mix between reported journalism and creative nonfiction, and they teach writing classes at GrubStreet.

Their work has been featured in the New York Times, Sports Illustrated, Vogue, the Washington Post, Bleacher Report, The Ringer, The Atlantic, and many others.

Their book, HAIL MARY: The Rise and Fall of the National Women’s Football League, is co-written with Lyndsey D’Arcangelo is available now, from Bold Type Books. The book was called “a delight” by Publisher’s Weekly and named one of the Los Angeles Times’ “10 sports books we loved in 2021.”

Instagram : http://instagram.com/thefrankiedlc

Website : https://www.britnidlc.com/

Writing Library : https://authory.com/FrankiedelaCretaz

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The Forecast is a Production of :

KVRU (https://www.kvru.org/shows/the-forecast/) & JEFFSCOTTSHAW

_____________________________________________________________

Executive Producer + Host // Maggie Mertens // Maggie@KVRU.org

Executive Producer // JEFFSCOTTSHAW // Jeff@KVRU.org

Additional Production Support Provided By // Crystal Fincher & Shannon Cheng & Maurice Jones Jr.