Click Clack

Happy New Year and Season 4 Clackers! 

In this episode, hosts Jacki G and Lauren Duletzke kick off Season Two of Unrivaled, discussing the exciting developments in women's sports, particularly the Unrivaled league. They explore the league's unique structure, the importance of player-led initiatives, and the impact of brand partnerships on women's sports. The conversation shifts to the evolving landscape of player pay, highlighting the NWSL's new high-impact player rule and its implications for the future of women's sports. The hosts reflect on their personal growth and intentions for the new year, emphasizing the importance of setting goals a...

As we close out the year, Click Clack hosts Lauren Duletzke and Jacki Gemelos reflect on one full year of the podcast and look ahead to what’s next for women’s basketball, the WNBA, NIL, and women’s sports business.

This New Year’s Eve episode explores why 2026 is shaping up to be the “money era” for women’s basketball, how player leverage is changing the industry, and what increased investment means for athletes, brands, and leadership across sports.

🔍 What We Cover in This Episode
• Women’s basketball and the future of the WNBA
• Why 2026 i...

As we head towards an amazing end of 2025, Jacki Gemelos and Lauren Duletzke explore the evolving landscape of women's sports, emphasizing the importance of community, marketing, and storytelling. They discuss the shift from viewing women's sports as a moment to recognizing it as a thriving industry. The duo also shares predictions for 2026, touching on coaching changes, emerging leagues, and the significance of building inclusive communities. Their insights highlight the growing fan engagement and the potential for women's sports to lead in the future.

Takeaways

We’re back. What’s good? 🧡

This week we’re breaking down who’s actually coaching the WNBA right now, from NBA assistants jumping into head coaching roles, to college lifers like Karl Smesko, Lynne Roberts, and Jose Fernandez, to the OGs who’ve been here since the beginning: Cheryl Reeve, Stephanie White, Sandy Brondello, Becky Hammon. We get into why hiring feels like public CEO drama, why there are still no women of color as W head coaches, and who Jacki is manifesting for the new expansion teams in Cleveland, Philly, and Detroit.

Then we pivot into...

How NIL is Reshaping the New Era of Women's Sports 
Season 3 Episode 11

Today on Click Clack, we’re unpacking the Diana Taurasi x Paige Bueckers golf video, aka the most unserious, intimate, chemistry-filled piece of wbb content we’ve gotten in MONTHS. Why did 12 minutes of golf tell us more about them than a year of media day quotes? Because when you take the basketball away… the real stuff comes out.

Lauren & Jacki break down the chaotic-aunt-energy, the little-sister vibes, the gentle bullying, the mentorship, the looks, the laughs, all the tiny moments that make fa...

At Jacki’s basketball game, a fan once told her they named their lizard after her—and that perfectly sums up the fun, chaotic world of sports fandom we get into this episode. 

We break down Project B, the new women’s basketball league launching in 2026 with global games and contracts starting at $2 million, and why it could completely shift the landscape of women’s sports. 

Then we dive into the best parts of sports fan culture—from NWSL moments to college games with our families—and how international influences are...

Step into the world of sports psychology with Dr. Chantelle Green, the trailblazing Director of Mind Health and Wellness for the Portland Trail Blazers. With an impressive academic background and a personal journey from athlete to advocate, Dr. Green shares her holistic approach to care—treating players as whole people, not just performers. She underscores the importance of trust, genuine connection, and understanding the distinction between mental health and mental illness. 

We explore the transition from collegiate to professional sports and the unique challenges NBA players face, including navigating newfound free time and the mental hur...

Remember that time when a wardrobe malfunction nearly ruined your day? We've all been there. This time, we kick off with tales of fashion mishaps and challenging days, setting the stage for a deeper chat on the evolution of the WNBA's Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA). From its early days in 1999 to the transformative changes of 2020, we highlight how crucial these agreements are for shaping the league and supporting women through salary structures, free agency, and more. It's a journey through sports history that underscores the power of unions and the relentless pursuit of equality.

Moving forward, we...

In this episode, we talk birthdays abroad, guilty sports obsessions, and our latest reality TV takes—from Love Is Blind to Love Island. We also break down the WNBA’s CBA talks and how they echo the NBA’s 1983 deal, highlighting why investment in women’s sports still matters.

We unpack the surprisingly calm Love Is Blind reunion (where was the drama?), shout out Madison and Jordan for stealing the show, and laugh about the random Chris Paul cameo. To wrap things up, we imagine dream reality TV casts, debate Halloween candy favorites, and keep things light while lo...

Jacki and Lauren return to their corporate roots—Nike, where their story began—to cover the Nike Sole City Showcase, an event celebrating the best employee basketball players across the company. What started as a local tournament has evolved into a multi-city competition featuring hoopers from Beaverton, Los Angeles, Memphis, New York, Orlando, and Toronto, all battling for a coveted spot in the Memphis Championship.In this special episode, Jacki and Lauren sit down with inspiring Nike leaders and former athletes, including Ashley Houts, former WNBA player turned Nike leader, and Karrie Conners, Nike’s Head of Global Basketball. 

Th...

In this inspiring episode, NFL Network host Kimmi Chex shares her journey from Kansas City to becoming a powerful voice in sports broadcasting. As a trailblazing woman in a traditionally male-dominated industry, Kimmi opens up about navigating her path with confidence, style, and a deep passion for football.

From her early days immersed in Kansas City's rich sports culture to her rapid ascent into a prestigious role with the NFL, Kimmi’s story is one of perseverance, purpose, and breaking boundaries. We discuss the evolving landscape for women in sports media, th...

As the crisp fall air fills our lungs, we're buzzing with Halloween excitement, reminiscing about our favorite costumes and planning this year's outfits. Join us for a whimsical ride as we toss around playful costume ideas, from a classic playboy bunny to the ever-elegant Morticia Addams. We even share personal plans, including some adorable children's costumes like a quesadilla and a Disney princess, stirring up nostalgic memories of past Halloween parties. Amidst the spooky chatter, a more serious discussion emerges about the collective bargaining agreement (CBA) expiration set for Halloween, a topic that looms with peculiar timing and potential...

The WNBA officiating system is broken, risking player safety and game integrity. This episode, we confront the escalating issues of rough play and inconsistent refereeing that fuel injury rates and player frustration. Join us as we spotlight the resilience of Indiana Fever's Kelsey Mitchell and dissect the broader implications of player protection, especially in financial terms. We probe the critical need for reform and the ripple effects on the league's future, urging an urgent conversation about the stakes involved.

Our discussion shifts to the heated WNBA collective bargaining agreement (CBA) negotiations. With a critical deadline looming, we...

Trailblazing former WNBA star, Olympia Scott, takes center stage to share her groundbreaking journey as both a professional athlete and a mother. Olympia's story is nothing short of inspiring as she recounts her experiences as the first WNBA player to have a child and return to the court. Her candid reflections illuminate the challenges she faced in a male-dominated league that lacked maternity protocols, offering insights into the resilience and leadership she embodied to blaze a trail for future generations of female athletes.

The episode also delves into the complex challenges women face in professional sports, especially...

When Jacki and Lauren first met at Nike, we never expected our bond would grow into a lasting friendship rooted in a shared passion for women’s sports. What began with common interests in beauty, fashion, and skincare evolved into a deep commitment to authenticity and uplifting women. In Season 3 of Click Clack, we reflect on our journey and the power of stepping into discomfort to spark growth and success. We also spotlight Angel Reese’s bold presence at the Met Gala, reshaping how we view women’s identities.

This season, we honor the moments that shaped our lo...

In this special Click Clack episode, recorded live at the LPGA Standard Portland Classic golf tournament, Jenny Nguyen—founder of The Sports Bra, the first bar dedicated to women’s sports—joins as co-host for her podcast debut. We explore Portland’s unique sports ecosystem, Jenny’s journey from athlete to entrepreneur, and how inclusive spaces and authentic storytelling are reshaping fan culture.

We spotlight the rise of women’s sports in Portland—from the Thorns to the LPGA—and highlight a powerful trend: athletes from across women’s sports showing up for each other. From Caitlin Clark throwing a f...

Reflecting on the incredible journey of season two, we've navigated through 28 episodes filled with passion, challenges, and triumphs. We've shared diverse voices and narratives while proudly supporting women's sports, symbolized by our "pay us what you owe us" shirts. Our online community has grown beyond our expectations, and we're especially grateful to dedicated fans like Carla. This episode marks a significant milestone as we set our intentions for the future, committed to continuing our mission of empowering and celebrating women in sports.

Our candid conversations as hosts reveal how we've broken traditional norms to find our voices—no...

NBA legend Michael Cooper, a cornerstone of the Showtime Lakers, shares his incredible journey with us on this episode of the Click Clack Podcast. From his groundbreaking role as one of the original "3 and D" players to his intense matchups with the likes of Kareem Abdul-Jabbar and Magic Johnson, Coop's stories paint a vivid picture of an era defined by grit and glory. Jacki, one of Coop's former players at USC, offers a heartfelt tribute to his coaching prowess, highlighting how his guidance shaped her athletic career and left an indelible mark on her life.

We dive...

In this week's episode Lauren and Jacki talk about Portland buzzing... because the WNBA welcomes back the Portland Fire, and we had front-row access to all the action. From the electric energy of the launch event to the deep connection between the team, fans, and city, this is more than a comeback—it’s a pivotal moment for women’s sports and pay equity. We’re taking you behind the scenes of an unforgettable weekend filled with celebration, activism, and community.

The WNBA All-Star Weekend took it to the next level: snagging Sabrina 3s, catching GloRilla’s epic halft...

In this episode, we sit down with Marcus Harvey, founder of Portland Gear, to explore his journey from Nike-inspired beginnings to building one of Portland’s most iconic lifestyle brands. Marcus shares how his brand evolved alongside a rising female fanbase and the growing influence of women’s sports, emphasizing the power of merchandise in connecting athletes and communities.

We dive into the return of Portland’s WNBA team, and its renewed rivalry with the Seattle Storm, reflecting on the legacy of the Portland Fire and stars like Jackie Stiles. Our conversation covers the financial challenges that shaped...

Odessa Jenkins, founder and former football player, joins us to shed light on the groundbreaking Women's National Football Conference (WNFC), where her vision for a premier women's tackle football league is making waves. As the founder, Odessa talks passionately about challenging stereotypes and the journey of attracting investments that are driving the WNFC's explosive growth. Her dedication and transformative impact on women's sports are truly admirable and align perfectly with our mission to celebrate powerful female athletes.

As the WNBA season heats up, we're diving into the tensions surrounding the collective bargaining agreement negotiations. With players like...

With the holiday this week, we thought we'd take some time off, enjoy with family and friends, AND celebrate some big news... Portland has a new WNBA president, and SHE is Clare Hamill. From playing basketball in college the first year of Title IX, to joining Nike when the company was less than 10 years old, to building the Nike Women brand, and founding a first-of-its-kind innovation program for former WNBA players... Clare has built a legendary career. A career that's catapulted women, athletes, and so much innovation in sports. 

Please take a listen, if you haven't already, t...

On this week's episode of Click Clack, it's just Lauren and Jack... no guests, just us! Aside from acknowledging how we didn't post about each other on National Best Friend's Day, we go deep into our "Drip" of women's sports topics as there's a lot to unpack that's happened in the recent weeks. 

We cover one of the hottest topics in college sports right now... the House v. NCAA settlement: athlete compensation and how the game is changing under the NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) era. We break down what these new NIL collectives actually mean for p...

In this episode of Click Clack, we sit down with Susan King Borchardt—former Stanford athlete and pioneering WNBA performance coach—to explore her journey from battling ACL injuries to redefining how elite athletes train and recover. Susan founded The Athlete Blueprint, a performance company based out of Beaverton, OR, serving the most elite women's basketball players in the world. 

Susan shares how her experience shaped a personalized, holistic approach to performance coaching—one that blends mental resilience, cutting-edge tech like Plantiga sensors and Springbok 3D MRIs, and athlete-first recovery strategies.

We dive into the evolvin...

Our latest episode is a heartfelt exploration of inclusivity in women's sports, with a special spotlight on the safe havens created for LGBTQ+ athletes. We champion the progressive environment of the WNBA and celebrate icons like Breanna Stewart and Sue Bird, who are reshaping the narrative around love and acceptance in sports. 

For those who know the special bond between a father and a daughter, this one's for you. We dive into the touching tales of 'girl dads' like Matt Thorsen, whose unwavering support and empathy are nurturing the next generation of strong, confident women in sports. A...

From a Zara summer look to WNBA tunnel fits, this episode dives into the bold intersection of women’s sports and fashion. We explore how WNBA athletes like Rickea Jackson and Kelsey Plum use style to express identity, challenge norms, and set trends.

We also discuss the emotional side of the game—from being waived to navigating the college-to-pro leap—and how fashion and beauty can empower athletes beyond the court.

Artist, Annika Wooton, joins us to share how she brings sports to life through speed painting, blending creativity with athletic energy in unforgettable ways. Who co...

This live episode, Click Clack's first (!), was recorded at a women’s Flag Football tournament in Portland, OR as the state heads towards making it an official high school sport for girls. Click Clack is all about elevating leadership stories in sports to inspire girls and women as they grow in their careers. 

Former WNBA stars Carla McGhee and Lisa C. Willis share their powerful journeys from pro basketball to leadership roles at Nike. Carla reflects on her pivotal role in the first women's pro basketball "Dream Team" and how the pandemic reshaped her career path. Lisa ope...

In this episode, Jacki and Lauren dive into ACL injuries in women’s sports, with a focus on the WNBA and Seattle Storm. They explore the under-discussed link between menstrual cycles and injury risks, as raised by stars like Sue Bird and Megan Rapinoe. The show also debuts a new segment, The Drip, covering the latest in women’s sports news.

The episode tackles athlete retirement, career transitions, and the need for programs like an "MBA for athletes." The hosts highlight how companies like ESPN and tech firms can benefit from hiring former athletes for leadership roles.
...

Join us as we warmly welcome the extraordinary Amy Haas, whose inspiring journey of resilience and triumph has led her to achieve the remarkable feat of completing a half marathon, marathon, or ultra in every U.S. state. Her story is not just about athletic achievement but is also a testament to the power of community and the strength found in facing life's adversities head-on. Amy's energetic journey, from her spirited childhood to her final race surrounded by loved ones, shows how sport can be a healing and fulfilling pursuit, transforming lives and fostering authentic connections.

Our...

Imagine being at your own wedding, surrounded by loved ones and die-hard fans all celebrating the magic of women's sports. That's exactly where Jacki found herself, amidst a whirlwind of events like the WNBA draft, Final Four, and her wedding. Our community is growing, and with it, our commitment to keeping you informed about all things women's sports. We've kick off season two with a fresh segment called "the drip," which promises to keep you up-to-date with the latest headlines and developments in women's athletics.

We're thrilled to be highlighting the rise of women's tackle football and...

Welcome Back for season 2 of Click Clack! From humble beginnings to a thriving career at Nike, an inspiring woman, Michelle Bain-Brink, shares her journey of perseverance and family dynamics. Raised by a single mother as the youngest of three sisters, she broke barriers by becoming the first in her family to attend college on a sports scholarship. Her narrative weaves through career achievements, personal sacrifices, and the deeply rooted values that have shaped her life decisions, including coaching her daughter's basketball team and supporting her son's rowing ambitions. Through her story, we explore the intricate balance between career aspirations...

Reflecting on our journey through season one of the Click Clack Podcast feels like looking back at a whirlwind of passion, growth, and laughter. It all started with some clumsy introductions and brainstorming sessions over tacos at Matador in Portland, OR, where we dreamt of creating a platform to help more everyday women fall in love with women's sports. Our mission-oriented brand has blossomed thanks to our incredible team, and the chemistry and shared laughter have been our secret sauce. As we close out this chapter, we're beaming with pride at the growth of women’s sports in the me...

Picture this: an arena filled with anticipation as dynamic teams like LSU, UCLA, USC, and UConn battle it out during the Elite Eight games. We couldn’t help but marvel at the incredible talent on display, especially standout players like Sarah Strong, whose performances left us counting her as an Elite 8 MVP. As we weave personal stories about the challenges of balancing motherhood and a passion for sports, fashion statements, like those unforgettable lavender-colored Kobe sneakers, add a splash of color to the narrative.

Reflecting on our own childhood, we reminisce about the beauty and complexity of ba...

Nike legend Clare Hamill joins us for our last guest interview of season 1 on Click Clack Podcast, sharing her incredible 43-year journey with the brand and the impactful programs she spearheaded. Having just retired, Clare talks about her transformative work with the WIN "Women in Nike" program, which supports retired WNBA athletes in transitioning to corporate roles at Nike. Her story is a powerful testament to the unique mindset athletes bring to the business world, offering lessons in confidence, resilience, and teamwork that resonate far beyond sports.

Our conversation delves into the groundbreaking success of Nike's initiative...

Transitioning from snowboarding to skiing after years on the slopes has been a thrilling yet challenging journey for Lauren. We chat about the excitement and intimidation of learning new sports and encourage women everywhere to take the leap, whether it's picking up skiing or facing unexpected competition on the pickleball court. Plus, Lauren shares heartwarming stories about encouraging her daughter as she navigates the ups and downs of competition and resilience.

We delve into the tough but inspiring world of sports injuries, highlighting the incredible journey of a young basketball talent, Juju, who is bravely recovering from...

Valerie Sizemore and Ella Quinney join us to share the incredible journey of Femme Rising, a groundbreaking martial arts studio in Portland, Oregon, dedicated exclusively to empowering women and girls. Inspired by their vision, we explore how Brazilian jiu-jitsu, kickboxing, and self-defense classes at Femme Rising foster confidence and agency in women as young as three. Valerie and Ella's passion for creating a supportive and inclusive community shines through as they emphasize the importance of challenging societal norms that often discourage women from embracing their power.

Throughout our conversation, we delve into the intricate relationship between trauma...

Ever found yourself enthusiastically filling out a March Madness bracket only to realize you’ve been following the wrong tournament? We've been there... actually Lauren's been there... and it's just one of the many delightful mix-ups we chat about on this episode of the Click Clack Podcast. This year, women’s sports are taking center stage, with a growing number of fans tuning in to the women's brackets. We share our excitement for this historic shift and discuss the need for resources that make sports more accessible for everyone, fostering an environment where curiosity is not only welcomed but cele...

Picture this: two women from different worlds, united by a shared passion for women's sports and an unbreakable bond of friendship. Jacki and Lauren invite you to listen in on our candid conversation about the essence of female friendship and its transformative impact on women in sports. We open up about our unique styles—humor and positivity complementing Jacki's community-building spirit—creating a dynamic that brings engaging content to life. Together, we celebrate the role of hype women and underscore the importance of young girls witnessing the power of positive female relationships.

Moving on to the court, we s...

Join us on the Click Clack Podcast as we welcome the incredible Amy Thomsen, a true powerhouse in the world of adaptive sports. Amy candidly shares her inspiring journey of resilience, navigating life after a life-changing injury, and the profound impact of wheelchair basketball on her identity and family. Our conversation explores the strength found in community, the importance of organizations like Adaptive Sports Northwest, and the joy sports bring into our lives. With light-hearted anecdotes about childhood seances and candle-filled atmospheres, this episode is as heartfelt as it is illuminating.

Reflecting on the transformative power of...

We sit across from two inspirational women who have redefined their careers, moving from traditional medical roles to leaders in the aesthetics industry. Summer Harness, a nurse with a background in women's health, and Nikki Hassell, a PA with roots in urgent care, join us to share their incredible journeys. Their stories illuminate the empowering potential of aesthetics, transforming how women perceive themselves and embrace their natural beauty. Together, we celebrate the power of self-love, while tackling the cultural pressures of body image with grace and positivity. 

The conversation takes a dynamic turn as we explore the v...

"When I first realized that my body was capable of so much more than I had ever imagined, it transformed my approach to fitness and life." 

Join us as we embark on a heartfelt exploration of women's sports and fitness, sharing personal stories and insights that challenge traditional narratives around body image, self-worth, and representation. From the excitement of Unrivaled and League One Volleyball to the inspiring stories of women overcoming adversity, we celebrate the groundbreaking initiatives that are paving the way for female athletes.

In this episode, we emphasize the power of community in b...

We sit down with Nick DePaula, Boardroom writer, sneaker expert, and creative director for a discussion on all things women's basketball (past and present), Unrivaled, and storytelling around sneaker design... including some of Nick's personal favorites. Nick has interviewed some of the most iconic athletes from Kobe Bryant, to Steph Curry, to Candace Parker... and has collaborated on iconic exclusive sneakers from SLAM magazine and more. His knowledge of the women's game inspired Lauren and Jacki and to say they were hyped in the interview is an understatement.

You can also watch the interview on our YouTube...

It all started with a playful word swap—"sports bar" turned into "sports bra"—and from that lighthearted moment, Jenny Nguyen's bold vision for the Sports Bra was born. Join us as we share an inspiring conversation with Jenny, who transformed this concept into the first women's sports bar in America. Her story is one of resilience and passion, navigating the challenges of opening a business during a pandemic to create a space that celebrates and empowers women's sports. We explore the significance of having dedicated venues like The Sports Bra and reflect on the impact they could have had...

Ever had a moldy sweet potato ruin your day? Jacki did, and it was just one of the quirky highlights in our latest Click Clack Podcast episode. We kick things off with our personal highs and lows of the week, from toe cramps to the irony of social media leaving us socially drained. Amidst the chaos, we celebrate the launch of our podcast and the community that's jumping in with us. It's a whirlwind of frustration, humor, and nostalgia that sets the stage for an inspiring chat with a truly remarkable guest.

We're honored to have Dr...

After crossing paths at Nike, where our shared passions for fashion, beauty, and authenticity intertwined, we found ourselves on a journey to celebrate the multifaceted identities of female athletes. Jacki's personal story as a former WNBA player and current sports agent, alongside Lauren’s dynamic career in communications and marketing, laid the foundation for the Click Clack Podcast. We aim to highlight the empowering world of women's sports and the unifying power of shared experiences.

Lauren's impressive career trajectory, from her roles at Nike and Microsoft to her abundant passion for connecting with people, has been nothing sh...