Podcast

Summit Up

Soccer, Sports

The First & only exclusive Denver Summit FC Podcast! Summit Up is your one stop shop for all things Denver Summit FC with plenty of side hikes into the greater NWSL landscape, Women’s Sports in Denver and everything you should know about the culture and community of soccer at 5280’. Join hosts Kali & Matt weekly as we set out on The Climb!

Episodes
30
Releases
Weekly
Typical length
52 min
On air since
2025
Latest episode
3 days ago

Episodes

30 episodes, newest first

  1. Denver Summit vs Racing Louisville Recap + North Carolina Courage Preview

    Season 26, Episode 25

    Show notes

    Kali & Matt are back to cover all the Denver Summit news Peak 2 Peak, recap that goal-fest of a victory over Racing Louisville, and preview Decision Day at North Carolina Courage--in addition to how Seattle Reign and Orlando Pride factor into the playoff equation. #SummitUp

    Chapters:

    00:00 Welcome to Summit Up!

    01:25 Player Highlights and Stats

    02:04 Baby Bigalski and Future Summit Stars

    03:51 Halloween Bald Caps and Dylan's Dedication

    06:15 Injury Recoveries and Team Resilience

    07:15 Record-Setting Goal Totals

    08:50 Looking Ahead: Future Prospects

    13:04 Celebrating Team Achievements and Player Moments

    16:46 First Half: Flint and Kurtz Strike

    19:24 Second Half Goal Barrage

    22:32 Referee Decisions and Game Impact

    24:41 Louisville's Spoiler and Yaz Ryan's Stunner

    29:05 Postgame Press Conference

    45:54 Playoff Picture: Standings and Scenarios

    47:38 Match Preview: Summit at North Carolina

    49:51 Referee Controversies and Their Consequences

    52:42 Key Storylines: Sanchez and the Offense

    57:27 The Charlie Kelly Rule of Fandom

    01:00:44 Predictions and Expectations for the Final Match

    01:04:08 Watch Parties, Reviews and Sign-Off

    1 hr 6 min
  2. Denver Summit vs Angel City Preview (October 17th)

    Show notes

    The international break is over, and Denver Summit FC is back in action with the playoffs on the line!

    This week on Summit Up, we're recapping how six Summit players represented their countries during international duty, including Melissa Kössler's brace for Germany, Lindsey Heaps captaining the USWNT, and Janine Sonis and Emma Regan suiting up for Canada.

    Then, we're looking ahead to Saturday's HUGE matchup against Angel City FC at Centennial Stadium. With Denver sitting just four points outside the playoff picture and three matches remaining, every point counts. We're breaking down the playoff scenarios, players to watch, keys to victory, and what the Summit need to do to keep their postseason dreams alive.

    Plus, a look at Indigenous Peoples Night and everything fans can expect on matchday!

    The playoff push is ON. Let's Summit Up!

    36 min
  3. Denver Summit vs KC Current Recap + Chicago Stars Preview

    Show notes

    Kali and Matt are back with Groundbreaking news in Peak to Peak, a recap of that reality check against the Kansas City Current and preview the Denver Summit match vs Chicago Stars this weekend.

    Chapters

    00:34 Introduction and Episode Overview

    03:20 Naomi Eto's WAFCON Victory and Arrival in Denver

    06:03 Recovery of Nahikari Garcia and Jasmine Aikey

    06:43 Team Efforts and Community Engagement at the Groundbreaking

    08:45 Recap of Groundbreaking Ceremony and Community Impact

    16:05 Jen Millet's Speech and Vision for Denver Soccer

    23:22 Stadium Construction Timeline and Future Events

    23:54 Denver Summit vs Kansas City Current Match Recap

    31:11 Playoff Standings and Scenarios

    36:01 Upcoming Match Preview: Denver vs Chicago

    43:14 Predictions and Goals for the Chicago Match

    44:47 Final Predictions and Weekend Plans

    52 min
  4. Denver Summit vs Seattle Reign Recap + KC Current Preview

    Show notes

    Kali and Matt are back to take you Peak to peak on your Denver Summit and NWSL News and Notables, recap that gritty win over Seattle Reign and preview the six point match up against Kansas City Current this weekend.

    Chapters
    00:19 Introduction to Denver Summit FC's recent performance and key topics

    04:00 International Call-ups

    05:53 Community News & Biscuits

    10:17 Seattle Reign Match Recap

    24:13 Janine MVP Watch* At the time of this recording, Janine was in 4th for the Golden Boot race; that number has now changed.*

    27:42 Playoff Race Breakdown

    32:48 Kansas City Current Preview

    41:41 Score Predictions

    44:52 Final Thoughts & Sign-off

    49 min
  5. Denver Summit vs Bay FC Recap + Seattle Reign Preview

    Season 26, Episode 21

    Show notes

    Kali and Matt are back to go Peak 2 Peak on all your Denver Summit news ad notables, recap Bay FC, and preview Seattle Reign. Summit Up!

    00:00 Introduction to Denver Summer FC and episode overview

    00:52 Welcome & Team Updates

    07:29 Bay FC Match Recap

    24:24 Supporter Chants & Matchday Banter

    30:21 Janine Saunas MVP Case

    36:28 Playoff Picture

    42:41 Seattle Rain Preview

    46:34 Pirate Chef Guest Prediction

    52:42 Score Predictions & Rain Game Talk

    57:03 Sign-off

    1 hr 2 min
  6. Denver Summit FC vs Gotham, Angel City Recaps + Bay FC Preview

    Season 26, Episode 21

    Show notes

    Kali and Matt are back from their travels and ready to talk player signings, Denver Summit's toppling of Gotham FC, frustrating draw against Angel City FC, and revenge match against Bay FC. #SummitUp

    Chapter List
    00:48 Introduction and episode overview

    03:09 Team updates and Naomi Eto's signing

    04:39 Naomi Eto's background and playing style

    07:43 Local spots and community highlights

    24:40 Match recap: Summit FC's victory over Gotham FC

    30:06 Reflections on the Gotham FC game and league standings

    32:37 Key moments and player performances

    33:38 Match analysis: defensive strategies and key goals

    39:26 Post-match thoughts and team morale

    44:33 Upcoming match preview: Summit FC vs Bay FC

    52:05 League context: U-20 Women's World Cup and player development

    1 hr 4 min
  7. Denver Summit vs Portland Thorns, Chicago Stars Recaps + Gotham FC Preview

    Show notes

    00:20 Introduction to Denver Summit FC's recent highlights

    03:11 Emma Regan's viral Meg moment

    07:02 Media appearances and community engagement

    15:19 Injury updates and player transfers

    20:04 Game recap: Summit vs Thorns

    27:16 Game recap: Summit vs Chicago Stars

    34:40 Janine Saunas' record-breaking goals and stats

    56:50 Preview of upcoming Gotham match

    1 hr 25 min
  8. Denver Summit FC vs San Deigo Wave + Portland Thorns Preview

    Season 2, Episode 23

    Show notes

    In this episode: Denver Summit FC vs. San Diego Wave recap, Yazmeen Ryan’s fifth goal of the season, Janine Sonis’ red-hot run of form, Abby Smith’s milestone night, the NWSL playoff picture, and a full Denver Summit FC vs. Portland Thorns preview.

    Denver Summit FC earned a hard-fought point on the road with a 1-1 draw against San Diego Wave FC, keeping Denver firmly in the 2026 NWSL playoff race. Kali and Matt break down a tale of two halves at Snapdragon Stadium, from Abby Smith’s massive four-save performance and 300th career NWSL save to the growing connection between Janine Sonis and Yazmeen Ryan, who combined for Denver’s second-half equalizer.

    Was this one point earned or two points dropped? We dig into Nick Cushing’s halftime adjustments, Eva Gaetino and Lindsey Heaps’ injury situations, Denver’s need for scoring beyond Sonis and Ryan, and why this result matters as Summit fights for a postseason spot. Plus, we look ahead to another huge road test against Portland Thorns FC at Providence Park, including the players and matchups to watch.

    Summit Up is your one-stop shop for Denver Summit FC, the NWSL, women’s soccer in Colorado, and the culture and community of soccer at 5,280 feet.

    43 min
  9. Denver Summit vs North Carolina Courage, Utah Royals Recaps + San Diego Wave Preview

    Season 26, Episode 18

    Show notes

    Kali and Matt are back to recap the latter half of the 3 game match week with thoughts on Denver Summit FC vs North Carolina Courage and Utah Royals. Then they jump in to preview a revenge bout with San Diego Wave. #SummitUp

    CHAPTERS

    00:48 Introduction to Episode and Main Topics

    04:57 Soccer Transfers: Faith Weber and Lourdes Sposch

    09:00 Team Roster Changes and Injury Updates

    17:10 Game Recap: North Carolina Courage vs Summit FC

    23:29 Game Recap: Utah Royals vs Summit FC

    32:15 Player Highlights and Key Moments

    33:23 Team Strategies and Future Outlook

    36:37 Analyzing Recent Matches and Team Performance

    37:40 Player Health and Team Morale

    39:50 Key Player Contributions and Development

    46 min
  10. Denver Summit vs Washington Spirit, Boston Legacy Recaps + North Carolina Courage Preview

    Season 26, Episode 17

    Show notes

    Kali & Matt are back to go Peak 2 Peak on Denver Summit FC News & Notables. recap TWO Matches in the away day to Washington Spirit and the home game against Boston Legacy. Then we'll preview the Wednesday night fight against a familiar foe in North Carolina Courage. #SummitUp

    00:00 Introduction to the Episode and Key Topics

    01:01 Jasmine Ike's Return and Recovery Timeline

    04:24 Gemma Bonner Joins Denver Summit FC

    09:32 Approach to the Summer Transfer Window

    12:00 Washington Spirit Game Recap and Personal Highlights

    30:15 Match Analysis: Denver Summit vs Boston Legacy

    52:12 Post-Game Press Conference Insights

    56:12 Upcoming Match Preview: North Carolina Courage

    59:13 North Carolina Courage Team Overview and Key Players

    1 hr 7 min
  11. Denver Summit vs Portland Thorns Recap + Washington Spirit Preview

    Show notes

    Kali & Matt are back to talk Lindsey Heaps and the Centennial Stadium Debut! We recap that epic Portland Thorns Match and Preview The Trip To DC to face the Washington Spirit.

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction and episode overview

    00:32 Lindsay Heaps' debut and leadership on the field

    06:47 Team tactics and performance analysis

    12:27 Match controversies and key moments

    15:04 Goals, highlights, and fan reactions

    19:30 Player performances and team dynamics

    51:31 Upcoming game preview: Denver Summit vs Washington Spirit

    58:32 Predictions and final thoughts

    01:11:48 Stadium experience and fan feedback

    01:19:48 Closing remarks and social media links

    1 hr 26 min
  12. Denver Summit vs Houston Dash Recap + Portland Thorns Preview

    Season 26, Episode 15

    Show notes

    Kali and Matt go Peak 2 Peak on News & Notables, Recap the 2-2 draw against Houston Dash, Preview Lindsey Heaps' debut against Sophia Wilson and The Portland Thorns, and tell you what you need to know heading into your first Centennial Stadium game day experience. #SummitUp

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction and episode overview

    04:48 Match recap: Denver Summit FC vs Houston Dash

    11:57 Second half analysis and key moments

    13:33 Turning Stats into Wins

    23:41 Team Response and Accountability

    25:23 Building Cohesion and Relationships

    27:40 Lindsay Heaps' debut and team expectations

    30:01 Upcoming game against Portland Thorns and strategic insights

    45:46 Predictions and final thoughts on the match

    52:08 Stadium logistics, parking, and fan tips

    59:43 Closing remarks and social media links

    1 hr 5 min
  13. Denver Summit vs Kansas City Current Recap + Houston Dash Preview

    Season 26, Episode 14

    Show notes

    Kali and Matt go Peak 2 Peak on Denver Summit FC news and notables, recap Lindsey Heaps' first open training and media press conference, talk the whopping 0-3 loss against Kansas City Current, what went wrong and how to fix it, then preview the upcoming, last match at Dick's Sporting Goods Park, against Houston Dash.

    CHAPTERS

    00:00 Welcome to Summit Up

    01:06 New Faces in Training

    06:31 Free Agency Insights

    16:37 Game Recap: Kansas City Current

    20:07 Looking Ahead: Women's World Cup 2027

    28:15 Navigating the Challenges of a Young Team

    29:58 Building Consistency and Identity

    30:53 Highlighting Individual Performances

    34:33 The Importance of Goalkeeping

    36:01 Tactical Adjustments and Team Dynamics

    39:01 Learning from Tough Losses

    41:01 Looking Ahead to Upcoming Matches

    57:08 Anticipating the Houston Matchup

    58:35 Table Watch and Playoff Implications

    1 hr 6 min
  14. Sod, Superlatives & Second-Half Dreams

    Season 2, Episode 13

    Show notes

    Denver Summit FC is back from the international break, and there's a lot to catch up on. From an inside look at the club's brand-new world-class training facility to first-half season superlatives and bold second-half predictions, this episode is packed with everything Summit supporters need before the action resumes.

    On this episode of Summit Up, we take you behind the scenes of the grand opening of Denver Summit FC's new CommonSpirit Performance Center, breaking down the intentional design, player-first philosophy, recovery technology, and what having a permanent home means for the future of the club.

    We also discuss Denver Summit FC's continued commitment to the community through Pride celebrations, international call-ups for several players, and what fans can expect as the club prepares for the highly anticipated opening of Centennial Stadium, including the expected debut of hometown star Lindsay Heaps.

    Then it's time for our First Half Superlatives! We reveal our picks for Offensive Player, Defensive Player, Rookie of the First Half, MVP, Unsung Heroine, Best Goal, Best Match, and Favorite Moment from an unforgettable inaugural season so far. Plus, we share listener-inspired debates, behind-the-scenes stories from the Season Ticket Member event, and plenty of laughs along the way.

    We make our second-half predictions, including breakout stars, Golden Boot favorites, playoff expectations, and which players we think are about to take another leap as Denver pushes toward the postseason.

    Finally, we preview Denver Summit FC's return from the international break against the Kansas City Current, and discuss the biggest storylines, key matchups, and what we're watching for as the club begins its playoff push. From breakout stars to Golden Boot favorites and postseason expectations, we share our bold predictions for the rest of the season.

    Whether you've been following Denver Summit FC since day one or are just jumping aboard the fastest-growing club in the NWSL, this episode is your ultimate midseason check-in before an exciting second half begins.

    Chapters

    00:00 Welcome Back & Peak to Peak Updates
    03:58 Inside Denver Summit FC's New Training Facility
    22:10 Pride Weekend, International Duty & Club News
    35:00 Season Ticket Member Event Highlights
    42:15 First Half Superlatives: MVPs, Best Moments & Biggest Surprises
    1:02:30 Second Half Predictions & Playoff Outlook

    1 hr 9 min
  15. What Denver Summit FC Teaches Us About Leadership, Culture & Building Community

    Season 26, Episode 10

    Show notes

    Description:

    What does it take to build a championship-caliber team before the wins ever come? In this episode of Summit Up, we look beyond the scoreboard to explore the leadership, culture, and community foundations shaping Denver’s newest professional women’s soccer team.

    Kali and Matt sit down with Amanda and Lizzie, co-founders of A Better Monday, a Denver-based leadership coaching company, to discuss how lessons from sports translate to the workplace and everyday leadership. T

    Together, they unpack why culture comes before results, how psychological safety creates stronger teams, and why the most successful organizations are built around trust, belonging, and shared purpose.

    From Denver Summit FC’s inaugural season and the power of fan connection to leadership transitions, team identity, and building something from the ground up, this conversation explores what businesses, coaches, athletes, and leaders can learn from the world of women’s sports.

    In this episode, we discuss:

    • Why “culture eats strategy for breakfast” and how strong cultures drive results

    • How Denver Summit FC is creating a community-first identity from day one

    • What psychological safety looks like on a team and why it matters

    • The difference between a workplace “family” and a healthy community

    • How leaders can communicate with clarity, purpose, and empathy

    • What businesses can learn from sports teams about belonging and collaboration

    • Navigating change, leadership transitions, and the next chapter for Denver Summit FC

    Whether you’re a Denver Summit FC fan, a women’s sports supporter, a leader, or someone passionate about building better teams, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the people and principles creating something special in Denver.

    Follow Summit Up for more conversations about Denver Summit FC, women’s soccer, and the culture behind the club.

    Chapters

    00:00 Exploring Leadership and Community in Sports

    04:10 The Importance of Culture Over Results

    10:38 Building Genuine Connections in Sports

    15:20 The Dangers of 'Family' Culture in Companies

    21:59 Tangible Lessons from Sports for Businesses

    23:21 The Joy of Play in Sports and Life

    28:13 Transforming Workplaces Through Playfulness

    36:01 Understanding Team Dynamics and Phases

    39:51 The Importance of Communication in Leadership

    49:23 Navigating Team Transformations

    55:15 Building Community and Trust

    01:03:00 Empowering Women Leaders in Sports

    1 hr 17 min
  16. Denver Summit at Racing Louisville Recap

    Season 2, Episode 11

    Show notes

    Denver Summit FC heads into the break on a high after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Racing Louisville FC, and we're breaking down everything from a massive night on the road.

    On this episode of Summit Up, we dive into the match recap, postgame press conference takeaways, and the team-wide performance that showcased just how far this squad has come.

    We discuss the patience and passing patterns that unlocked Louisville's defense, the tactical evolution of Denver Summit FC under the current system, and what this result means for the NWSL table heading into the second half of the season. Plus, we celebrate Ally Brazier's special match-winning goal, highlight standout performances across the pitch, and examine the professionalism and maturity this team continues to display in pressure moments.

    We also touch on Denver's Pride celebrations, community engagement efforts, and why this club is building something bigger than results on the field.

    Finally, we look ahead to upcoming matches, second-half expectations, and exciting future episodes featuring special guests and deeper conversations around women's soccer in Denver.

    Whether you're a longtime Summit supporter or new to Denver Summit FC, this episode has everything you need to stay connected with the club, the players, and the growing women's soccer community.

    Chapters
    00:00 Introduction to Summit Up and Match Preview

    09:49 Summit vs Racing Louisville Match Recap

    18:53 Postgame Insights and Player Highlights

    36:29 Looking Ahead: Future Matches and Community Engagement

    40:06 Fan Involvement and Upcoming Special Episodes

    45 min
  17. Denver Summit FC @ Utah Royals Recap + Racing Louisville Preview

    Season 26, Episode 10

    Show notes

    The episode covers a range of topics including a match recap for Denver Summit at Utah Royals, Athlete Ally Tally fundraiser, Centennial Stadium construction delays, return of Lindsay Heaps and Sophia Wilson, captain's armband handoff to Lindsay Heaps, international duty updates, national team call-ups, NWSL and CVS Assist of the Week, and an upcoming match preview between Racing Louisville and Denver Summit FC.

    Chapters

    00:00 Introduction to Summit Up and NWSL Landscape

    01:28 KKAAT Fundraiser and Player Contributions

    03:20 Centennial Stadium Construction Updates

    04:39 Captaincy Changes and Player Updates

    08:24 Match Recap: Summit FC vs. Utah Royals

    14:24 Preview: Upcoming Match Against Racing Louisville

    27 min
  18. Denver Summit Fc First Home Victory | Orlando Pride May 16th

    Season 2, Episode 9

    Show notes

    Denver Summit FC is officially on a roll. In this episode of Summit Up, Kali and Matt break down Denver Summit’s historic 3-1 victory over the Orlando Pride! The club’s first ever home win and first back-to-back wins in franchise history. From a sold-out Pride Night crowd at Dick’s Sporting Goods Park to Janine Sonis delivering her second straight brace, this episode captures the electric energy surrounding Summit FC right now.

    The hosts dive into Eva Gaetano’s first professional goal, Denver’s first-ever penalty kick converted by captain Janine Sonis, and the continued dominance of players like Yazmen Ryan, Ayo Oke, Tash Flint, and Abby Smith. They discuss how Summit controlled long stretches against the reigning NWSL champions, why the team no longer looks like an “expansion club,” and how Nick Cushing’s squad is quickly becoming one of the league’s most dangerous attacking teams.

    Kali and Matt also react to Orlando’s frustration boiling over with Angelina’s red card, Barbara Banda’s inevitable goal-scoring threat, and Denver’s immediate response that sealed the match moments later.

    Plus, the episode features stories from Pride Night, the incredible atmosphere around the club, and appearances from soccer icons Tobin Heath and Christen Press during their visit to Denver.

    Beyond the match recap, the hosts preview Denver Summit FC’s upcoming rivalry showdown against the Utah Royals in the newly named Continental Divide Cup Derby. They break down key players to watch, Golden Boot standings, score predictions, and why this matchup could become one of the NWSL’s best emerging rivalries.

    If you love NWSL coverage, women’s soccer analysis, Denver sports culture, supporter energy, tactical breakdowns, and chaotic late-night podcast vibes, this episode is for you.

    Topics include: Denver Summit FC vs Orlando Pride recap, Janine Sonis brace, Eva Gaetano first goal, Yazmeen Ryan analysis, Abby Smith performances, Tobin Heath and Christen Press in Denver, Utah Royals preview, Pride Night, NWSL rivalry matches, and Denver Summit FC fan culture.

    59 min
  19. Denver Summit FC vs Houston Dash | May 9th

    Season 2, Episode 8

    Show notes

    Denver Summit FC earned their biggest statement win yet, and Summit Up is breaking it all down. In this episode, Kali and Matt recap Denver Summit’s dominant 4-1 road victory over the Houston Dash, highlighting Janine Sonis’ historic brace in her 100th NWSL appearance, Yazmeen Ryan’s emotional return to Houston with two assists, and a complete 90-minute performance from Summit FC after recent frustrations.

    The hosts discuss key tactical adjustments from head coach Nick Cushing, standout performances from Tash Flint, Delanie Sheehan, Ayo Oke, and Abby Smith, and why this match felt like a turning point for the club. They also react to postgame press conference comments from Cushing, Sonis, and Ryan while diving into advanced stats, passing patterns, and the chemistry that finally clicked for Denver.

    The episode previews Denver Summit FC’s upcoming Pride Night showdown against the Orlando Pride, including score predictions, Barbara Banda concerns, and why the vibes around Denver Summit FC feel stronger than ever.

    38 min
  20. Denver Summit vs Boston Legacy | May 3 2026

    Season 2, Episode 10

    Show notes

    Denver Summit FC suffered a heartbreaking 3-2 loss to fellow expansion side Boston Legacy, and Hallie and Matt break down everything that went wrong in this week’s episode of Summit Up. From late-game defensive collapses to midfield struggles and tactical questions surrounding Nick Cushing’s lineup decisions, the hosts dive into what the result means for Summit FC moving forward in the NWSL season.

    The episode highlights standout moments from Yasmin Ryan, Tash Flint, Abby Smith, Ava Gaetano, and Carson Pickett while exploring why Denver continues to struggle closing out matches.

    Hallie and Matt also discuss Boston’s aggressive attack, Summit’s lack of possession control, and the emotional reactions from players and coaches after another painful loss.

    Off the field, the show spotlights Kaleigh Kurtz’s Pride Month partnership with Athlete Ally, Denver Summit FC’s upcoming Pride Night against Orlando Pride, and exciting progress on the club’s future stadium and training facility in Centennial.

    Plus, the hosts preview Denver’s upcoming road match against the Houston Dash with score predictions, revenge-game storylines, and key players to watch.

    If you love NWSL soccer, Denver women’s sports, expansion team drama, and in-depth analysis of Denver Summit FC, this episode has everything you need to stay connected to the growing soccer culture at 5280.

    31 min