Welcome back to the Weekly Hurdle! This newsletter is free and will stay free thanks to sponsors and the individuals that opt-in to give. If you love reading this week after week, consider becoming a paid subscriber by clicking the button below.
Also, don’t forget to tap on the “heart” button, while you’re at it. Your likes (and comments) are also another ~great~ form of support.
Presented by LMNT:
I’ve been doing one new thing a week since the top of the year, and every week I give an update on what that thing is in the newsletter. I made the decision to do this because I realized that most all of my highlights from 2024 were work related, and I wanted to reclaim some of my joy for just me. I wanted to experience things that had nothing to do with recording, writing, hosting, or editing.
… It’s been fun. Really fun. Along the way, I’ve realized that one of the best parts of this is bringing other people into the mix. Enjoying experiences with others. Don’t get it twisted, I love my solo time. However, it’s really, really fun to propose an activity to a friend I haven’t seen in a beat than—yet again—go to a bar for yet another catch-up cocktail.
Anyway. I know what you’re thinking: What’s the point, Em? We know this. Well, last week’s new thing—watch Clueless at Fort Greene Park—brought about a lot of feelings for me. To be clear: I’ve watched movies in New York parks before, but never Fort Greene. It’s probably been 8+ years since I’ve squadded up with my picnic blanket, some finger foods, good wine, and the obligatory leggings/long-sleeve combo in hopes not to get completely mauled by mosquitoes. (Real question, if someone asked you to spell the word mosquitoes, would you be able to do it on first try? Asking for me.)
… As I was sitting there solo before my girlfriend arrived and the movie began, I had one of those smack-you-in-the-face moments. I don’t know what I expected when I moved to New York. How long I’d be here. Who I’d become. What I’d be doing with my life 15 years later (wow). But I’m living a life right now that’s even better than what I hoped for. I’m healthy. I’m happy. I’ve got great people in my orbit.
Anyway. Surrounded by hundreds of other people sitting on my grey, white-trimmed blanket, I realized I was A. Playing out what felt like a rom-com movie montage of some of my favorite New York memories in my head B. Smiling. Like, a big, toothy, quirky, if someone looked at me they’d be like what is this lady on, smile.
In 2024, I really was on autopilot for a minute there. I realize now that’s something I don’t want to do that ever again. I want to keep trying new things. Being where my feet are. Making a conscious effort to explore and adventure and embrace my inner kid and laugh until my cheeks hurt. Just like I make movement a priority, I’ve got this pact with myself to continue to exploring, too.
And, I could use your help. Regardless of where you are in the world, drop a comment below with something fun to add to my must-try list. Will travel for the good stuff!
Keep hurdling,
HIGHLIGHTS OF THE WEEK
Gear I’m Loving: LNDR Femme Fatale Sports Bra
It’s been a minute since I put on a sports bra that I really liked both aesthetically and from a functional perspective. This was my first time trying out LNDR. I loved the material—especially the compression (but not so tight that I felt like I had spillage, IYKYK). I wore the bra with their Fatal Attraction 6” Shorts (my favorite inseam length) for a 4-mile tempo run, and again—was really surprised here! It’s hard for me to find a short that stays put and has functional pockets.
I’m Reading: Don’t Call It A Comeback by Keira D’Amato
I already mentioned this here once, but now that I’ve finished it I want to promo it one more time. So many great themes in here from the former American record holder in the half- and full marathon. As a woman who’s closer to 40 than 30, D’Amato really just inspires me to be my best self and put my big goals on the line. If you’re at a place where you’re ready to stop asking what if?—this read is for you. Don’t worry, she’s coming back on the show, soon.
I’m Watching: The Summer I Turned Pretty on Amazon Prime
Am I watching the newest episode that I’ve already seen makes loads of people cry after I schedule this newsletter? Absolutely.
NEW ON THE SHOW
Shana Stephenson had her dream job at ESPN years ago. Now, she has her dream job—again. As the New York Liberty's Chief Brand Officer, Stephenson has the opportunity shape the way that fans see the Championship team in the stadium, on television, and beyond. In this week's episode, Stephenson talks about how she ended up in Brooklyn, and what goes into marketing the No. 1 team. She also talks about how she balances work and her personal life, how the WNBA has changed drastically over the past eight years since she came on board, and what she's most looking forward to next.
“I’m very proud as a Black woman being out here representing myself and representing us in our culture. I make sure that I do everything that I can to be the best representation possible every time that I step on the court and even off the court.”
- Taylor Townsend (listen to her Hurdle episode) after what transpired post-match with opponent Jelena Ostapenko at the U.S. Open
Other thoughts and links: Tell me you saw Billy Jean Bling, right? Nike unveiled Caitlin Clark’s new signature logo, and it’s about damn time. (Is it 2026, yet?) Oura announced some new offerings that leverage biometric data for more personalized support for pregnant and perimenopausal women. Trinity Rodman’s jeans are a definite yes. Abby Wambach, Julie Foudy, and Billie Jean King starting a podcast together was not on my 2025 Bingo card, but I dig it. Did you know that Togethxr has a job board featuring prominent jobs within women’s sports? Yes please, more please.
Have something you want me to nod to in an upcoming Weekly Hurdle? Or, just want to say hi? Let me know, and slam the button below.
Thanks to LMNT — an electrolyte drink mix with everything you need and nothing you don't — for supporting Hurdle.
If you haven’t tried the lemonade LMNT yet, you’re missing out. Not only is it zero-sugar hydration to support your active lifestyle, but it’s also absolutely delicious. These electrolytes my go-to to perform better, and they’re also without artificial ingredients, sugar, and coloring. And best part? They recently announced that the once-seasonal summer flavor is now here to stay! With LMNT, you can:
☀️ Kickstart your mornings
💪 Fuel workouts and improve recovery
They’ve got a flavor for every taste, but admittedly lemonade is the perfect sip on a hot day. A girlfriend of mine has me hooked on the half-and-half approach: Half a packet of lemonade combined with half a packet of watermelon. Head to DrinkLMNT.com/Hurdle to get a FREE LMNT sample pack with any purchase, including LMNT Sparkling. To claim this deal you must go to DrinkLMNT.com/Hurdle — no code necessary!
HOW CAN I SUPPORT HURDLE?
I’m so, so glad you asked!
SUBSCRIBE, RATE, AND REVIEW HURDLE:
We’re now over 1,500 ratings and reviews in Apple Podcasts! Go on, get after it.
iTunes | Spotify
JOIN: THE *Secret* FACEBOOK GROUP
Another (weekly) Hurdle conquered.
Do me a quick favor? Click the “heart” below before you graduate onto the next thing of your day, yeah? Your likes, comments, and support mean the world to me.
How about dance? I never thought I had the “ballet body” (whatever that means) but my sweet daughter and some friends encouraged me to try-at age 42-my dream of doing ballet! And it is AMAZING! 10/10 recommend!
Come check this out! I’ve never been and don’t know what to expect. I am going with a friend, and we’d love to have you join us!
https://worldathletics.org/competitions/world-athletics-cross-country-championships/tallahassee26