Vanderbilt, College Gameday, and Being the Next Chalamet | with Nate Bargatze

World Cup, Wimbledon, and Seating Ourselves at the Swift-Kelce Wedding

Jul 7, 20261h 42mSummary

In this episode of Casuals with Katie Nolan, the team dives into a variety of sports and pop culture topics with their signature blend of humor and analysis. The hosts kick things off by addressing the ongoing debate over the terminology of soccer versus football, ultimately standing firm on their preference for the former. The primary focus of the episode is an engaging, analytical walkthrough of the World Cup round of 32. Katie and her production crew rank all sixteen matches from the knockout stage, providing commentary on the most thrilling moments, tactical blunders, and standout performances—including Erling Haaland’s impressive run and the dramatic penalty shootouts. Beyond the World Cup, the group briefly touches on the buzz surrounding the Swift-Kelce wedding and promises an upcoming deep dive into the Jalen Brown trade and the latest developments at Wimbledon. Throughout the discussion, the hosts maintain a lighthearted dynamic, debating officiating controversies, the nuances of penalty kick strategies, and even the occasional viral dog rescue story. The episode serves as an accessible, casual guide for listeners looking to stay caught up on the biggest narratives currently unfolding in the sports world.

Baseball, Pocket Cannolis, and Homering Off Quavo | with Jake Storiale

Jul 2, 20261h 42mSummary

In this episode of Casuals with Katie Nolan, the team navigates a busy week of sports headlines with their signature relaxed and irreverent style. The hosts delve into the latest NBA free agency drama, discussing the Boston Celtics' acquisition of Mitchell Robinson and the significant trade sending Kawhi Leonard back to the Toronto Raptors. They also examine the career struggles of Ja Morant, the ongoing LeBron James free agency speculation, and the return of Serena Williams to the Wimbledon court, sparking a fun debate over the "Am I Too Old For This?" segment. Beyond basketball and tennis, the conversation shifts to soccer, covering the excitement of the World Cup, the unexpected celebration tactics of Mexican fans, and Sam Kerr’s return to the NWSL. The episode concludes with a look at baseball, featuring guest Jake Storiale from Jomboy Media. Storiale joins the crew to provide a much-needed update on the current MLB landscape, helping the hosts break down the season for those who haven't been keeping a close eye on the diamond. It is a lighthearted, wide-ranging discussion perfect for keeping a finger on the pulse of the sports world.

World Cup, Wombat Poop, and Why Jagga Smith is the World's Bestest Athlete

Jun 30, 20261h 42mSummary

In this episode of Casuals with Katie Nolan, the team dives into a mix of viral stories, travel recaps, and global sports coverage. The conversation kicks off with a bizarre anecdote about a concert attendee who allegedly defecated in the stands during a Noah Kahan performance, leading to a discussion on concert etiquette. Katie Nolan shares her recent experiences attending a marketing conference in the French Riviera, contrasting the beautiful setting with the exhaustion of industry networking. Meanwhile, the production team celebrates the return of their resident Australian, Chris, who recounts his family trip to see the Carlton Football Club in action. He highlights his daughter Izzy’s enthusiasm for her favorite player, Jagga Smith, sharing a heartwarming segment where he surprises her with a personalized message from the athlete after a failed attempt to meet him at a training session. Finally, the hosts provide an update on the World Cup. They break down the current state of the knockout rounds, discuss the pressure facing both the U.S. and Australian teams, and share reactions to some viral, ill-advised pre-match commentary regarding upcoming opponents.

What Does Your Favorite Sports Movie Say About You? | with Rob Anderson

Jun 25, 20261h 13mSummary

In this summer blockbuster episode of Casuals with Katie Nolan, the host is joined by comedian and internet personality Rob Anderson to explore the intersection of cinema and athletics. Tasking listeners with submitting their all-time favorite sports movies, the duo dives into a lighthearted analysis of what these cinematic choices reveal about a person’s personality and upbringing. The conversation centers on several iconic titles. They celebrate A League of Their Own as an undisputed classic, highlighting its cultural impact, the humor found in its rigid etiquette training, and the enduring debate surrounding the film’s final act. The episode also features a spirited look at The Mighty Ducks 2, with the hosts laughing over its lack of logical adherence to actual hockey rules and the nostalgia it evokes. Other discussions cover Miracle, praised for its intergenerational appeal, and Bend It Like Beckham, which the hosts identify as a definitive coming-of-age story centered on female friendship. Through their witty banter, Nolan and Anderson examine the fine line between athletic reality and Hollywood whimsy, proving that the best sports movies are often those that linger in the cultural imagination.

Raygun Energy, Doc Emrick Love, and the Return of Pope Facts | with Ashley Braband

Jun 23, 20261h 24mSummary

In this episode of Casuals with Katie Nolan, Katie welcomes former podcast co-host Ashley Braband for a long-awaited reunion. The two reflect on their shared history, the evolution of their careers, and the transition from their previous collaborative work to their current lives. The conversation takes a nostalgic turn as they discuss the unique, often chaotic nature of their past ad reads and their shared experiences navigating the industry. The hosts transition into a lighthearted rundown of major sports and cultural stories that occurred during their years apart. They discuss the controversial homework clause in Kyler Murray's contract, the scandal surrounding Shohei Ohtani’s interpreter, and the viral reaction to Australian breakdancer Raygun at the 2024 Olympics. The discussion on Raygun sparks a playful debate, with Katie teasing Ashley about sharing a spiritual connection to the dancer's unconventional performance style. Finally, they dive into their recurring segment of “Pope Facts,” sharing historical anecdotes about the papacy, including the rise of the first American Pope and the scandalous life of Pope John XI, proving that their signature blend of humor and niche trivia remains as sharp as ever.

One-Star World Cup Reviews, Pride Night in SF, and Championship Ice Cream Cake

Jun 18, 20261h 51mSummary

In this episode of Casuals with Katie Nolan, the host and her crew dive into a lively mix of sports headlines, fan culture, and personal banter. The conversation opens with an attempt to slice into a championship ice cream cake, setting a humorous tone as the team navigates the challenges of studio resources. The main segment focuses on the ongoing World Cup, where the hosts break down surprising match results, including the high-profile draw between Spain and Cape Verde. They discuss the massive surge in social media fame for players and the peculiar habit of coaches blaming analytical data rather than performance for their losses. The discussion also touches on the atmosphere surrounding the tournament, from the dedicated international fans bringing energy to American cities to the logistical quirks of branding at host venues. Beyond the pitch, the team chats about sports media trends, the intersection of pop culture and athletics, and even a brief exploration of world geography. Throughout the episode, the hosts maintain a lighthearted, conversational style, providing an accessible take on the sporting world that welcomes fans of all levels of expertise.

Knicks in Five! Plus Elite World Cup Vibes, and the Best Names of the MCWS

Jun 16, 20261h 16mSummary

In this episode of Casuals with Katie Nolan, the team gathers in a makeshift studio to celebrate a monumental moment in sports: the New York Knicks winning the championship in five games. The hosts dive into the contagious energy surrounding the city’s historic victory, reflecting on the emotional toll and joy that comes with deep playoff fandom. They recount the dramatic comeback in game four, share personal stories of intense reactions to the series, and discuss the collective spirit that united New York fans, from spontaneous street celebrations to celebrity reactions. Beyond the championship, the hosts explore the cultural phenomenon surrounding the Knicks, including the crossover appeal of celebrity fans and the camaraderie of the Villanova-connected trio leading the team. The conversation also touches on the excitement of upcoming parades and the debate over whether family commitments should take a backseat to historic sports celebrations. With natural, engaging banter, the episode captures the raw, unfiltered experience of being a sports fan, emphasizing why these moments mean so much to the city and the people watching from home.

Pickleball, Liverpool, and What is a Sports Fan? | with Michael Schur & Joe Posnanski

Jun 11, 20261h 46mSummary

In this episode of Casuals with Katie Nolan, the host and her production team dive into the evolving world of sports fandom and the complex issues currently shaping the industry. The conversation begins with a look at trending social media stories, including a daring solo rowing journey across the Pacific, before shifting to the latest developments in the NBA Finals. Nolan and her team analyze the atmosphere at Madison Square Garden, the controversy surrounding high-profile political appearances at games, and the passionate, sometimes unruly, behavior of fans in the streets. A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to the ongoing gambling scandal involving college athlete Brendan Sorsby. Nolan discusses the implications of players betting on their own teams, the lack of a collective bargaining agreement within college athletics, and the broader, troubling trend of gambling accessibility for student-athletes. The hosts express concern over the lack of accountability and the potential long-term damage this poses to the integrity of sports. Throughout the discussion, the team emphasizes the importance of maintaining the spirit of fair play while navigating the increasingly commercialized landscape of modern sports.

The Finals in NYC, Stanley Cup Tattoos, and Who is Buying Taylor Swift's Chair?

Jun 9, 20261h 41mSummary

In this episode of Casuals with Katie Nolan, the team dives into the electric atmosphere surrounding the New York Knicks as they navigate the NBA Finals. Katie and her production crew discuss the viral moments from recent games, including the chaotic street celebrations that have taken over the city and the high-stakes tension of Game 2. They touch upon the surreal reality of New York City in the grip of playoff fever, from celebrity sightings to the unintended consequences of city-wide excitement, such as the extension of event curfews. The conversation shifts to the staggering financial landscape of the series, as the hosts break down the record-breaking ticket prices that have effectively priced out the average fan. The discussion also covers the logistical challenges brought on by high-profile attendance at Madison Square Garden, focusing on how security protocols and crowd control measures are impacting the fan experience. Beyond the court, the team shares humorous personal anecdotes about their own viewing rituals, balancing the intense professional sports analysis with the lighthearted, everyday perspective that defines the podcast.

Knicks-Spurs, Ladybug Eating, and the Greatest Combined No-No | with JP McDade

Jun 4, 20261h 33mSummary

In this episode of Casuals with Katie Nolan, the hosts dive into a wide-ranging conversation that blends sports analysis with humorous anecdotes. The discussion kicks off with the excitement surrounding the NBA Finals as the team prepares to watch the Knicks face off against the Spurs. Isabella shares her candid perspective on the "bandwagon" fan phenomenon, arguing that joining a winning team is a natural entry point for new sports fans rather than something to be gatekept. She also outlines her game-day survival guide, balancing professional duties with the intensity of playoff fandom. The conversation shifts to unique athletic feats and odd occurrences in sports culture, including the bizarre revelation of a college softball tradition involving eating ladybugs for good luck. The hosts also discuss the impressive, albeit unconventional, story of Nebraska pitcher Jordy Bahl, who threw a perfect game while pregnant. Finally, the show turns to the upcoming World Cup, covering the U.S. men’s national team’s recent exhibition match and the grueling travel schedule winger Brendon Aaronson endured to balance his wedding with national team commitments. The episode captures the lighthearted, unpredictable energy of sports fandom.