More Than An Armband

In this bonus segment from Shae Holmes, we hear about a moment were 30 sec of courage unlocked the ability to ask questions to her captains at the professional level. Also, listeners will learn about how Shae spends her time outside of soccer with her jewelry business, Connected Comebacks.

In this episode of the More Than An Armband podcast, host Anja Koehler sits down with Shae Holmes, a former rookie in the NWSL and a past collegiate captain, to explore the resilience and leadership required to navigate both triumph and adversity in sports.​
Shae shares her journey from youth soccer to the professional stage, reflecting on the setbacks that shaped her - most notably, injuries that tested her resolve and commitment to the game. She opens up about the pressures of leading a team while managing personal challenges and how she found strength in vulnerability.​
Throughout the conversation, Shae offers candid insights on maintaining a captain’s mindset, even when sidelined, and how she embraced her role as a leader both on and off the field. She discusses the transition to the NWSL, the learning curve of professional play, and the importance of perseverance in the face of obstacles.​
Listeners will take away key leadership lessons, including:
The power of resilience in overcoming injuries and setbacks.​
How to lead effectively, even when you’re not on the field.​
The mental shift required to step into the professional arena with confidence.​
Join us for this inspiring conversation with Shae Holmes as she shares the mindset and habits that helped her rise through the ranks and lead with purpose.​
Follow Shae Holmes:
Instagram: _shaeholmes11​
LinkedIn: Shae Holmes​

In this bonus segment, Lu speaks on her passions beyond the game, sustainability, and how they support her ability to support the community as well as connect and continue to lead your teammates. 

In this episode of the More Than an Armband podcast, host Anja Koehler sits down with Lu Barnes, a veteran NWSL leader and mentor to the next generation of athletes. With over a decade of experience in professional soccer, Lu shares her journey from a young player navigating the early days of the league to becoming a steady force of leadership for the Seattle Reign.
They dive into the evolution of leadership in sports, exploring how Lu transitioned from leading by example to actively mentoring younger players. She reflects on the challenges of fostering team culture, the importance of adaptability, and the responsibility of passing the torch to emerging leaders. Her insights highlight that leadership isn’t just about wearing the armband—it’s about showing up consistently, building connections, and elevating those around you.
Listeners will gain valuable takeaways, including:
How to lead authentically, even as an introvert.
The impact of mentorship on building a strong team culture.
Why leadership is about investing in others, not just holding a title.
Join us in this inspiring episode as Lu Barnes shares her perspective on leadership, resilience, and the future of women’s soccer.
Follow Lu Barnes:InstagramTwitter/X

Anja describes her journey to founding Captain's University, the mission to empower women leaders, and why we are launching More Than An Armband. In this short preview, Anja hopes to express that everyone's leadership journey is different. Many listeners may not know their next step to lead effectively and captain their life. More Than An Armband aims to share the stories and tools of leaders in their athletic journey and beyond.