Almost Fans

Welcome to your crash course in fantasy football—the game that makes Sundays way more dramatic. We’re joined by Jake, our resident commissioner and repeat guest, to break down everything beginners need to know: draft strategies that actually work, why kickers are your last pick (always), and how trades can make or break your season. We unpack the lingo—PPR, busts, sleepers, flex spots—and share the funniest league punishments and t...

NIL is transforming college sports—driving brand deals, viral TikTok fame, and a new era of athlete empowerment. But beyond the million-dollar headlines, what does Name, Image, and Likeness really mean for everyday student-athletes? We sit down with Keri Becker, Athletic Director at Grand Valley State University, to unpack the biggest misconceptions about NIL, the boldest ways athletes are cashing in, and how schools walk the fine ...

Want to enjoy the NFL without memorizing the playbook? This episode is your ultimate NFL crash course—from what happens in the off-season to how the salary cap actually works (spoiler: it’s complicated but kind of fascinating). We break down the preseason drama, explain what to look for during games (even if you don’t know the rules), and serve up a cheat sheet of quarterback names and spicy soundbites. Plus, we spotlight the Irsay...

Think gymnastics is just flips and glitter? Think again. We’re diving into the powerhouse world of women’s gymnastics with former competitive gymnast and superfan Kaleigh Gabriel. This episode unpacks everything from how scoring deductions really work to bold NCAA gymnastics predictions—and yes, we’re talking leotard dos, don’ts, and hot takes. You’ll hear insights on how the sport is evolving to support elite gymnasts like Simone ...

Youth sports in America have become high-pressure, high-cost, and high-stakes. In this episode, we unpack the truth about youth sports burnout, the myth of athletic scholarships, and why so many kids are walking away from competitive play. We dive into early specialization, overuse injuries, and how the $30 billion youth sports industry is impacting kids’ mental health, physical development, and family life. From sideline behavior ...

Hally Leadbetter is shaking up golf with comedy, creativity, and a mission to make the game more human. We dive into her viral rise—from growing up in a golf dynasty to becoming one of the sport’s freshest media voices and most recognizable golf influencers. With on-course interviews alongside stars like Tom Holland and DJ Khaled, and a social media presence that blends humor with heart, Hally is redefining who golf is for. We unpa...

Former British pro cyclist Lucy Shaw takes us inside the world of elite women’s cycling—from grueling training weeks and intense stage races to navigating life as the youngest rider on a pro team. What does it really take to compete at the highest level of women’s professional cycling? Lucy joins us to unpack team dynamics, the unique challenges of the women’s pro circuit, and even debunk some of those tactical moves you see on TV ...

Welcome to the WNBA’s biggest moment yet. We break down the viral rise of the iconic WNBA orange hoodie—spotted on Kobe Bryant, LeBron James, and Naomi Osaka—and how it helped take the league mainstream. We dive into Unrivaled, the new 3x3 women’s pro basketball league, and spotlight Angel Reese (aka Bayou Barbie)—whose elite talent, bold style, and headline-making NIL deals are redefining women’s sports. From record-breaking WNBA ...

New to tennis or just love the drama? We break down the pro tennis world from the ground up—how it works, what winning Wimbledon or any Grand Slam really means, and how players actually make money. You’ll finally crack the code on tennis scoring, discover how AI is reshaping coaching behind the scenes, and understand why tennis is one of the most physically and mentally demanding sports on the planet. Plus, we end with the incredib...

Golf insider Jake Fergus joins us to talk all things pro golf—behind-the-scenes at The Masters, working with PGA Tour players at TaylorMade, and what’s really happening with LIV Golf vs. PGA. We cover tour traditions, golf gear innovation, how pros make money, and the magic that makes Augusta National legendary. Whether you’re a casual fan or a die-hard golfer, this episode is packed with insight, heart, and a few great name drops....

In this listener-powered episode, we answer your best questions—from our most cringe-worthy sports icks to the one sport that still makes us say, “Wait…why do people love this?” We talk about our sports origin stories, how parenting has completely changed the way we watch games, and the moments in mom life that rival championship pressure. Plus, we debate future-kid sports picks and unpack how being sports podcast hosts has impacte...

Why are the Stanley Cup Playoffs called “the Madness on Ice”? Because no other sport blends grit, superstition, and glory quite like hockey. In this episode, we break down how the NHL Playoffs work—from the point system and seven-game series to power plays and the science behind superstitions. Plus, we dive into what makes the Stanley Cup the most coveted and chaotic trophy in pro sports, complete with hot dogs, baptisms, and strip...

Welcome to the world of the NBA! Whether you’re new to basketball or gearing up for the NBA Playoffs, this episode breaks it all down. We cover the basics—how the NBA works, the 30 teams, the G-League, the shot clock, and a few trivia gems. Then we dive into what makes the season unique, from the 82-game grind to how the NBA Playoffs actually work. We wrap with a tribute to basketball legend Sue Bird—whose leadership off the court ...

It’s not just soccer—it’s the English Premier League, and it hits different. We're talking chants that give you chills, rivalries fueled by history and hate, and a system that punishes losers with relegation. Our guest gives us the ultimate English Premier League breakdown: how fans pick their team, what makes the league so global, and how much money really controls the game. From pre-match rituals to lifelong grudges, English...

Think NASCAR is just fast cars turning left? Think again. We're diving into the high-octane world of NASCAR, where strategy, precision, and athleticism collide at 200 mph. From the adrenaline-pumping pit stops—to the intensity of the NASCAR Cup Series playoffs and the grueling physical demands drivers endure in 130°F cockpits, there's more to this sport than meets the eye. Plus, we spotlight Danica Patrick's groundbr...

Jenny Cavnar is changing the sound of baseball—literally. In this episode, we sit down with MLB’s first female primary play-by-play announcer to talk game-day prep, imposter syndrome, and the power of storytelling in the booth. She takes us behind the mic and into the chaos of calling games while raising a family and making history. We dig into what it means to find your voice in a male-dominated field, how she handles pressure on ...

Welcome to the world of volleyball! Whether you’re a newcomer or a die-hard fan, this episode serves up everything you need to know about the sport. We break down the basics—plus explain the six key positions on the court in superhero terms. We also spotlight the explosive growth of volleyball in the U.S., from record-breaking college teams like Nebraska to the new pro leagues like the Pro Volleyball Federation and League One Volle...

Welcome to the most glamorous two minutes in sports! We’re diving headfirst into the Kentucky Derby—from the thunderous excitement of the race to the real secrets behind horse betting and Triple Crown glory. In this episode, we break down what really happens behind the scenes once the races end (spoiler: the biggest money isn’t made in the winner’s circle). Plus, we spotlight legendary jockey Michelle Payne, who shattered glass cei...

The NFL Draft is more than just names called on a stage—it's about money, strategy, and dreams. On this episode, we break down how the rookie salary cap works, what the Combine actually measures, and why going in the first round can change your life. We also dig into late-round success stories like Tom Brady and Brock Purdy. Whether you’re a seasoned fan or just getting into football, this is your go-to guide for understanding...