Episodes

  • She’s Got An Eye For This!

    She’s Got An Eye For This!
    Aug 29 2024
    Michelle and Erika go behind the lens with photographer Lauren Sopourn in this episode of The Spin Chicks. Lauren's journey into photography began at an early age when she discovered her passion for capturing moments. She pursued her love for photography while studying fine arts at Florida Atlantic University and has since made a name for herself as a talented and award-winning sports photographer. Lauren has built an impressive portfolio by photographing numerous collegiate sports events and working closely with professional teams including the Miami Dolphins and the Florida Panthers. Her business, Sports and Media Nation LLC, showcases her entrepreneurial spirit, dedication to the craft and her ability to transform her point of view into a thriving career. Lauren shares her quest from student to professional photographer, the gift that sparked her career and how she prepares for assignments. It's inspiring to hear about her experiences, especially the excitement of capturing the Florida Panthers' 2024 Stanley Cup champion run, highlighting her role as a moment historian in the world of sports.
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    50 mins
  • She’s Getting the Gold!

    She’s Getting the Gold!
    Jul 25 2024
    In this episode of The Spin Chicks, Erika turns the mic on Michelle to talk about her work with previous guest Lashinda Demus as she prepares to receive her gold medal at the Olympic Games in Paris. Lashinda’s journey to the first-ever medal reallocation ceremony has been a long one, and Michelle takes us back to the track at South Carolina, where they met as student-athlete and SID. Michelle recounts the emotional phone call when Lashinda learned she would finally receive her gold medal. Working with Lashinda as a friend, as well as a seasoned PR professional, she provides insight into what has happened since that call. Michelle also gives us a behind-the-scenes look into planning and preparing to share this monumental news with the public. From developing a media campaign to planning a trip to Paris, Michelle’s dedication to helping her friend in one of the most memorable moments of her life shines through.
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    29 mins
  • Celebrating One Year of The Spin Chicks with Dawn Ellerbe

    Celebrating One Year of The Spin Chicks with Dawn Ellerbe
    Jul 17 2024
    Michelle and Erika are thrilled to mark the first anniversary of The Spin Chicks podcast by welcoming back their very first guest, the incredible Dawn Ellerbe. A trailblazing track and field collegiate athlete, Olympian, and sports administrator at Vanderbilt, Dawn joins us to reflect on an eventful year. She shares her experiences with a major cross-country move and a significant career change, providing her perspective on personal and professional growth. We also share insight on the upcoming Olympic Games in Paris, along with the latest in fashion, sports, and more. Tune in and let’s celebrate what a difference a year makes!
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    48 mins
  • Bridging the Distance: Javelin Thrower Arshad Nadeem - Pakistan's Flag Bearer in Paris

    Bridging the Distance: Javelin Thrower Arshad Nadeem - Pakistan's Flag Bearer in Paris
    Jul 3 2024
    The Spin Chicks digitally bridge an 8,000-mile gap to chat with Arshad Nadeem, Pakistan's javelin star and 2023 World Championship silver medalist. Joining Arshad is his coach and mentor Salman Butts, who helps with translation. Despite training in scorching 113-degree heat, Arshad's focus remains on the Paris Olympics. He shares insights into his journey, mental preparation and visualization techniques, and how rhythmic dance has surprisingly enhanced his approach in hurling the 8.2-pound javelin. This conversation offers a glimpse into the dedication and unique training methods of this rising athletic talent.
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    35 mins
  • The Long Wait for the Gold Medal is Over

    The Long Wait for the Gold Medal is Over
    May 29 2024
    In this breaking news podcast (May 29, 2024), the Spin Chicks visit with U.S. Olympian Lashinda Demus. Lashinda has been collaborating with the IOC for more than a year. When the gold medal is placed around her neck in Paris’ Champions Park beneath the backdrop of the Eiffel Tower on August 9th - Lashinda will finally kiss her medal as the champion of the 400-meter hurdles race from the 2012 London Olympics. This will be the first-ever medal reallocation ceremony held at a Summer Olympic games. Lashinda reflects on being the true pioneer, how this ceremony came to fruition, what it’s been like the last couple of years and more. She also gives us a preview of some of her picks for Paris Gold Medals as well.
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    48 mins
  • My Husband’s A Chef Part II

    My Husband’s A Chef Part II
    May 20 2024
    Michelle and Erika are excited to congratulate Traci Messier on her exciting new career venture. They discuss Traci's transition from a P.R. agency executive to the corporate communications director for U.S. Soccer. They are eager to hear more about her experiences and insights in this new role. Traci shares her enthusiasm about upcoming events, including the 2026 Men’s World Cup. Additionally, she reveals exciting plans for a new campus being built in suburban Atlanta. It will serve as a hub for training and development within the organization.
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    36 mins
  • My Husband’s A Chef Part I

    My Husband’s A Chef Part I
    May 7 2024
    During a catch-up session with Michelle and Erika, Traci Messier fondly reminisces about her past as a Syracuse Orangemen cheerleader and her successful 10-year career as a TV sports and news anchor. Traci reflects on how her weekend shift influenced her decision to eventually leave the sports coverage scene in northern New York. She shares stories, including covering the Bills Mafia beat. In addition to her broadcasting experience, Traci discusses her life working in PR Agencies in the South, highlighting her versatility and adaptability in the media industry. Traci also takes a moment to reflect on her husband Christian, who is a dedicated full-time chef, adding a personal touch to the conversation.
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    43 mins
  • Behind the Headlines

    Behind the Headlines
    Apr 10 2024
    Michelle and Erika catch up with Bob Gillespie, a former columnist for The State in Columbia, S.C. He reflects on his experiences as a sportswriter for the Gamecocks, Clemson, PGA Tour and more. Navigating the dynamics of being a sports journalist is different and Bob filled us in some of the behind-the-scenes of it all. He talks about just how much the profession has evolved over the years. With the rise of digital media and social platforms, Bob elaborates on the challenges of the role and the future of the profession. He also sprinkles in stories from his time on the beat, from unforgettable games to encounters with both coaches and players (and SIDs!).

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    45 mins