The Late Sub with Claire Watkins

979
Sports #81

The Late Sub with Claire Watkins brings you the latest news and freshest takes on all things USWNT, NWSL and whatever else is popping off in women's soccer each week. Special guest appearances with the biggest names in women’s sports make The Late Sub a must-listen for every soccer fan.You can find The Late Sub wherever you get your podcasts. Follow Claire on X/Twitter @ScoutRipley and subscribe to the Just Women’s Sports newsletter for more.

Recent Episodes
  • The Gotham FC superteam experiment was a failure
    May 1, 2025 – 21:45
  • What Trinity Rodman’s injury means
    Apr 24, 2025 – 19:55
  • Angel City: The good and the bad, a deep dive into the future of the club
    Apr 17, 2025 – 21:12
  • The USWNT's youth movement hits a bump in the road
    Apr 10, 2025 – 21:40
  • NWSL predictions: Champion, Shield, MVP and more
    Mar 18, 2025 – 16:29
  • Women’s Sports Wishlist: A look into 2025
    Dec 31, 2024 – 26:00
  • What a year for women's sports: an end end of year recap
    Dec 23, 2024 – 20:40
  • Lynn Williams is traded to Seattle, plus a nice salute to USWNT legend Becky Sauerbrunn
    Dec 20, 2024 – 23:33
  • Is Hannah Hidalgo National Player of the Year?
    Dec 17, 2024 – 26:33
  • Building a basketball team with Natalie Nakase
    Dec 12, 2024 – 21:14
  • Don’t count out South Carolina, plus a quick look in NCAA soccer & volleyball, the PWHL, and NWSL free agency
    Dec 10, 2024 – 22:55
  • BIGGEST college basketball surprises, plus a quick dive into the WNBA, PWHL, and college volleyball
    Dec 5, 2024 – 24:35
  • The USWNT survives their final game of the year
    Dec 4, 2024 – 24:47
  • The USWNT says goodbye to Naeher
    Dec 1, 2024 – 23:21
  • MARTA DID IT! An NWSL Championship Recap
    Nov 26, 2024 – 30:16
  • NWSL Championship: Banda vs Rodman, plus a quick look into college basketball, NWSL awards, and the new WNBA hires
    Nov 21, 2024 – 27:05
  • Triple Espresso takes a break: a look into the USWNT roster drop; plus a recap of the NWSL semifinal games
    Nov 19, 2024 – 31:30
  • NWSL Awards: Snubs and Surprises, plus a preview going into the NWSL semifinal round
    Nov 14, 2024 – 25:17
  • Bay FC ALMOST pulls it off, plus a special interview with Bay FC midfielder Kiki Pickett
    Nov 12, 2024 – 41:40
  • Can Sophia Smith UPSET Gotham? Plus a special interview with Olympic bronze medalist rugby player Sammy Sullivan
    Nov 7, 2024 – 46:55
  • Is it NATTY or BUST for Paige Bueckers and UConn? | The Late Sub
    Nov 5, 2024 – 28:10
  • Naomi Girma can do it all, plus a final look at the NWSL regular season
    Oct 31, 2024 – 26:48
  • USWNT: It's a mental game, plus a chat with Olympic gold medalist Gabby Thomas
    Oct 28, 2024 – 35:39
  • The USWNT is BACK!
    Oct 25, 2024 – 29:23
  • The Liberty survive game 5, plus a quick wish list for the end of the NWSL regular season
    Oct 22, 2024 – 29:51
  • What's next for the USWNT? Plus an analysis of the WNBA Finals as it nears the end
    Oct 17, 2024 – 29:01
  • Banda vs. Chawinga for MVP? Plus a look at the first two WNBA Finals games
    Oct 15, 2024 – 30:58
  • Do the Liberty take it all? Plus a recap of NWSL news this week in preparation for playoffs
    Oct 10, 2024 – 25:11
  • Marta’s Orlando dream comes true, plus Claire gives a postmortem on the Las Vegas Aces
    Oct 8, 2024 – 29:06
  • Sabrina Ionescu and the Liberty look for a sweep, plus a look into the Orlando Pride's potential shield win
    Oct 3, 2024 – 26:36
  • Can the Aces bounce back? Plus a look into NWSL playoff possibilities
    Oct 1, 2024 – 25:02
  • WNBA underdogs struggle, plus a look into the NWSL playoff landscape
    Sep 24, 2024 – 40:04
  • Trinity Rodman is a superstar, plus a look into why a WNBA season expansion is a good thing
    Sep 17, 2024 – 38:44
  • Alex Morgan’s final game, plus a look into Angel Reese's injury, the U.S. Open, and the Paralympics
    Sep 10, 2024 – 36:57
  • The NWSL playoff race begins, and a chat with NWSLPA President Tori Huster
    Sep 3, 2024 – 41:38
  • The new NWSL CBA changes everything, plus a Q+A to answer your women's sports questions
    Aug 27, 2024 – 38:59
  • The New York Liberty clinch first, plus a look into the NWSL starting back up
    Aug 20, 2024 – 42:00
  • USA basketball gets it done, plus a chat with Arsenal forward Alessia Russo
    Aug 13, 2024 – 41:31
  • Simone Biles's legacy grows, plus a preview of the USWNT's semifinal matchup
    Aug 5, 2024 – 35:16
  • The USWNT always bounces back, and the Olympics always bring the drama
    Jul 29, 2024 – 39:13
  • Can the USWNT medal? Plus a look into WNBA All-Star Weekend
    Jul 23, 2024 – 40:19
  • This is Sophia Smiths USWNT attack now, and a brief look at WNBA all-star
    Jul 16, 2024 – 39:40
  • How well did the NWSL and WNBA prepare its players for the Olympics?
    Jul 9, 2024 – 30:32
  • How the Orlando Pride became a contender with Haley Carter and Ally Watt, plus a quick look into the WNBA as the Olympic break approaches
    Jul 3, 2024 – 40:41
  • Is it the right choice leaving Alex Morgan? Unpacking the USWNT Olympic roster drop
    Jun 26, 2024 – 23:12
  • Talking USWNT and Rookie of the Year goals with Croix Bethune, plus the rookie of the year race is on in the WNBA
    Jun 25, 2024 – 37:21
  • “This year is completely different” with Lo’eau LaBonta
    Jun 18, 2024 – 37:10
  • Sophia Smith is innocent: an NWSL recap, and the surprises and snubs of the USA women’s basketball Olympic roster
    Jun 11, 2024 – 35:37
  • Emma Hayes’s USWNT looks ready to roll, and the Indiana Fever finally end their early-season gauntlet
    Jun 4, 2024 – 36:43
  • Angel Reese is earning Chicago wins, and Orlando stakes their claim for best team in the NWSL
    May 29, 2024 – 46:26
Recent Reviews
  • LC51281
    Needs cohost, disappointing to not cover WNBA Draft
    Claire could really benefit from having a cohost. The monologue style doesn’t work for this podcast. Also very disappointed there was no coverage of the WNBA Draft after and instead was all NWSL content. :( Why not both? So many gaps in this podcast need to be addressed.
  • Amy Becca
    Favorite women’s sports podcast
    The Late Sub is wonderful — limited ads, no awkward banter, just Claire sharing women’s sports news and her analysis.
  • Fleabag231
    S’good
    Claire is so dynamic in her analysis and storytelling, made even more impressive by the fact she’s monologuing. How difficult it is to make podcasts sound conversational, even with conversations, and she achieves this on her own. Here for the soccer but I’ve loved learning more about basketball. Also hot take: I appreciate that there aren’t interviews on this pod. The other woso pods cover that, and most of the time I find them redundant or lacking insight. I come here to sound smarter about soccer when I rant about it to my friends.
  • flangeslammer
    Who thought this was a good idea?
    One person talking for 30-40 minutes and covering topics just throughly enough to count it as coverage… rather than having a back and fourth with other personalities who cover the sport as well so as to be slightly interesting… And they went the solo pod production route? Love Claire’s work historically, but this isn’t working and they’re not really trying.
  • JMyrtle7
    Great, just needs some fine tuning
    The content is great - thoughtful analysis, to the point, interesting and illuminating. It’s an excellent addition to JWS, fun to wait for every week. Only complaint is frequent repetitions of “like I said” and “again” - so frequent that it becomes irritating. It’s ok to repeat things when you make a point, it’s expected, and in this case justified. It takes a little while to establish a point and emphasize it a few times - perfectly fine - no need to acknowledge with “again.” Saying “like I said” sometimes in consecutive sentences or as often as 3 times in 10 sentences - sounds compulsive, and it’s at this point like a tic. Please allow yourself to go back to good points you’ve made, without declaring that a repetition is coming. Otherwise - excellent podcast, great mix of topics, always a thoughtful POV.
  • KrisMillerJD
    Basketball & Tactics
    I love the WNBA coverage! Also love the focus on tactics/game coverage for both NWSL and WNBA. Guests are okay, but I generally prefer Claire solo/without a cohost because her analysis is so good and I think solo coverage keeps the podcast more focused. Only wish would be for longer episodes.
  • run2tunes
    Monologue
    Need to add another expert to this or bring in guests. I keep waiting for discussion, but it's just a long monologue.
  • ms. boyski
    Bball too!
    I’ve always loved Claire’s soccer analysis but find I love her basketball analysis even more! Thank you for helping me appreciate what makes Dawn Staley so special.
  • SuperDuperMick18
    we want a lot more NWSL!!!!!!!
    Please stop talking about things we don’t care about like college basketball! Cannot wait for that to be over! Please please focus on the NWSL!!!!!! More of that please!!!! Also maybe get some women soccer players on to interview? Tell us everyday what Alex Morgan is doing! Ha.
  • Sreuter49
    Women’s Sports Analysis
    Love to hear analysis of the women's game - thank you!! Would love to hear the PWHL included in the future.
  • geogal217
    Yes for this analysis
    I loved Kelley, Midge, Sam, and Lynn’s voices in their JWS podcasts but the Late Sub has the analysis that I had been craving. (I know all the shows have different purposes!). I think there is an edge that is there since she hasn’t been a pro player herself and isn’t worried about talking about her friends and teammates like the others may have been. Loved, loved, loved the quick and speedy recaps and also the thorough explanations of how games and tournaments are setup. I feel like the podcasts hosted by players often skipped over that since it’s second nature for them. I would say that Claire might be good with a co-host who is on her high-level to add some banter to the show!
  • ELou05
    Why kill the Snacks feed : (
    I loved Snacks. It was so great! If Lynn and Sam needed to move on, sure. I’m bummed but totally understand. But it’s so weird using their IP and feed for a totally different basketball/soccer pod. So lame. I’ll just have to delete it from my feed now even though it would have been nice to keep it. : (
  • huey256&
    Claire rules
    Great analysis, love the topics covered. Feels like Claire has a long future doing pods
  • Brinsvii
    Great! Ep 2
    Great insight constructive criticism been liking in some of the podcast I listen to about women’s soccer, or over US women’s national team soccer.
  • Mrs3474
    Love the update
    Love this update! It brings all different Womens sports to the spotlight as deserved.
  • Maya soccer lover
    Best Podcast Ever!!!!!!
    This show is so so so so so good and funny and I cried when it was over! I will miss it so much! Thanks guys!
  • molly lover
    Love this.
    You guys!!!! This is so amazing. Please don’t stop recording! This is so inspirational and brings me so much joy. I usually listen to it when I am training, and before my club games. Thanks for all of this.
  • ilikebigbuttsamdicannotlie
    SNACKS IS THE BEST
    Snacks is the best. I love listening to you girls! And I am the biggest USWNT supporter so this was basically made for me. I love how funny Sam mewis and Lynn Williams are!
  • R David 107
    Snacks is the Best
    Snacks brings joy to my life. Please continue. I am sad that Sam may not be able to play soccer again, but confident that she has so much to contribute going forward. Sam, take strength from all those who love and believe in you.
  • EAOC 03
    Thanks for being genuine
    The Championship recap show was an easy listen. My favorite part, however, was when Sam shared her experience with injury. That was incredibly helpful for people to hear, and thank you for doing so.
  • Toothless lover 89
    I would totally be a havapoo or German Shepard
    I would definitely be a havapoo or a German Shepherd. My havapoo name is Finn and he definitely lives up to his Finnish name.
  • Kapp46
    This has morphed from my favorite soccer podcast to my favorite podcast
    I realized when I saw Snacks in my podcast lineup today that I love it so much it’s now officially my favorite podcast not just my favorite podcast about soccer. I love it! It’s sweet, funny, goofy and thoughtful. And when Sam switches over into deep soccer tactical analysis it’s clear she’s one of the best thinkers about soccer out there. I hope she and Lynn both have years of playing ahead of them, but if Sam has to retire, her leadership within the game and as a pundit will mean she’s still a huge asset to the game.
  • lyndilou
    Snacks is an absolute SNACK!
    Another incredible podcast produced by JWS. I’m 37 and this is pod is something I would have given anything for as a young female athlete. It’s my favorite weekly podcast and has a little bit of everything. Thanks Lynn and Sam, I adore you both. CHOMP!
  • Jess R :)
    Love this Podcast
    I listen to this podcast while walking to class and working out! Thank you for making my days brighter!
  • Cberr19
    The best
    Snacks has been my light in a dark time. Without fail, I can pop an episode on and be laughing within seconds. Lynn and Sam’s dynamic is priceless and I think we all just listen and want to be their friend. Keep it up guys, and thanks for doing more than you probably realize for a lot of us out here. Chomp!
  • DAFOSU
    Love the podcast but no more Abby Wambach
    Love this hilarious, intelligent and insightful women’s soccer podcast and enjoy your interviews with guests. it just felt like Abby shoved you to the side to push her own agenda. Obviously I’m down for next week!
  • #1 Mug
    Abby!
    Epic convo with Abby! Such great questions and insight. #Chomp
  • erine01
    An OK Time (the best)
    I can’t even with how much I enjoy listening to Lynn and Sam banter, share, and laugh. From talking about apple-picking to knitting to, yeah, some soccer, too, they will keep you laughing and smiling. We all need to have friendships like theirs. Even if you’re not a soccer fan, this is a fun show (but also…get into women’s soccer immediately!).
  • CoachBeau27
    Chills
    What a podcast! I literally had chills all over listening to Abby talk about the goal v Brazil. She put into words the inexplainable moment in sports - TRUST !! And SURRENDER What a lesson - for sports and life! WOW!!!
  • Juliaznyc
    Gem
    A gem among podcasts! As a women’s soccer lover and lover of good smart funny people, this podcast has it all. I just wish there was more of it. Thank you Sam and Lynn. We love you!
  • KAYPEA333
    The best in the biz
    Been listening to this podcast since the beginning and love it. I’m convinced the only people who should interview athletes are other athletes because I feel like the players are more comfortable sharing stories and being vulnerable with people who know/understand them. Love Lynn and Sam’s dynamic and the variety of topics they get in to. Excellent work ladies! GO BATS.
  • Zo36
    Great Podcast! 🤩
    I have only listened to two episodes so far, but this has become one of my favorite podcast. I loved the interview with Jessica Berman, NWSL Commissioner. It was informative and entertaining. Great questions and discussion. I was already an avid fan of the NWSL, and this has enhanced my fandom. Kudos to Lynn and Sam!!
  • CBurke122
    Loveee
    Not a big podcast person, but Snacks is my absolute favorite. Makes me feel like I’m hanging out with Sam, Lynn, and their guest(s) every week. I want to be their bestie.
  • Crip0807
    Love Snacks
    I look forward to Thursdays to be uplifted and entertained by Lynn and Sam. Their guests are interesting and it is wonderful to learn different sides of these amazing women. Keep up the good work and thank you.
  • CML99
    Love it
    It's funny and quirky, and I love it. I really enjoy listening to Lynn & Sam and finding out more about the inside scoop of rhe NWSL League and USWMT. Keep up the great work! Chomp😎
  • jbaron44
    Love it!
    Love listening! Bring on Abby!
  • NiniO-GoBats
    Love the show!!!
    Snacks is an incredible show. I love all the behind the scenes insight into the game and the players that we love to watch. I hope we can see Sam back out on the field soon - any updates that you can fill us in on? Also, I am a Gotham season ticket holder / GO BATS!!! Go Lynn!!!
  • Srob59
    Old soccer mom
    I love listening to you two on my dog walks. You are funny, informative, and just are so genuine. I also love watching you two play. I smile the whole time!
  • Shared iCloudID
    The only thing I hate about this
    The only thing I hate about this is that it only comes out once a week. Love Lynn and Sam and the open honest conversations they have with everyone. It’s also super fun to listen to all the back and forth between these amazing women.
  • Lizzel1324
    Love it!
    Love me some Sammy and Lynn Williams!!!
  • bettjay
    More than an OK time
    This podcast rules and my only suggestion is to make it year round!
  • *CTID*
    My favorite podcast!
    I’m so excited for the Pod to be back! I’ve had a SNACKS sized hole in my heart during the hiatus. Exceptionally entertaining, insightful, and fun! Can’t wait to hear more from Shrimp Head and Panic Petunia!
  • pamarams
    Love this podcast
    Thank you for having Ashley Hatch on your program. Her being left off the World Cup team was so devastating. It had to be so crushing. The game of soccer is a game of up’s and downs. I love how Ashley told us how she navigated the news and how her team and coaches were so supportive. We all need to hear how people navigate their mental health and learn from it. Thank you Ashley for being such a class act! And thank you Lynn and Sam for such a great platform for players to share. Love this podcast!
  • Oti woo woo
    The BEST
    This. Has. Everything. I’m a huge soccer fan so I love their recaps and insights. What I love even more is their friendship and all the great stories they share. The best guests. The best questions. You feel like you’re in the room with them listening to these great conversations with soccer legends. And such a healthy dose of silly. I am always giggling along. More of all of this please.
  • Sftball137
    LOL!
    I love how unconventional the podcast is and they stick to who they are, super stars who are deep down just real people. I’ve just started but I’ve seen clips on TikTok so looking forward to the laughter and chaos to come. I wish all of them were filmed versus some just having pieces of the podcast. Maybe that’s something to come. I’m a newish fan to soccer, first watched the 2015 Women’s World Cup so it’s going to be fun to learn even more through this podcast. Overall love watching these two play on the National team and take a deeper dive into their lives and the sport of soccer.
  • bswartwood
    Obsessed
    Just found Snacks during the World Cup, so I’m late to the game. But Sam and Lynn are so good that I’ve gone back and listened to over half of all of their episodes. Such good insights and also super funny. The balance is 🤌. I’m an avid listener for life now❤️
  • LSpadaforaT
    Perfection
    Could a podcast get any more perfect? Great hosts, great guests, great banter, perfect mix of soccer and real life. Always laughing while listening. Best parts are the free flow conversations when you can tell they stay away from the notes. Sam and Lynn slay at everything so tuning in every week is a no brainer. Love my girls!
  • BrianaPilar
    A masterpiece!
    Absolutely LOVE these 2 so much!! I would be so happy to hear them talk about absolutely anything at all. They have the biggest hearts and are so hilarious and I hope this goes on forever.
  • maddyyypryor
    Two big CHOMPS
    I just binged every ep of Snacks in time for the World Cup and my serotonin is out the ROOF! Thanks to Sam & Lynn for bringing the laughter, the feels, and everything in-between while letting us inside the minds of our NWSL and USWNT heroes. I rate this pod with 5 stars and two big CHOMPS! P.S. GO BATS!
  • sccrain
    FANtastics!!
    If you love fun and friendship this is the pod cast for you!! Amazing insider women’s soccer!! Love it!
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