Former NBA center Michael Ruffin stops by the Sports Will Save Us All studio to chat with host Sasha Graham about the weird life of a pro athlete, and what happens after the buzzer sounds—navigating early retirement, finding new purpose, and staying mentally strong in the face of big transitions. They discuss the evolving nature of sports fandom and the importance of mental resilience in and out of sports.

Ruffin shares insights from his journey as a player, parent, coach, and now as the basketball program director at Scottsdale's brand new basketball facility, Swysh Den, emphasizing the significance of fostering community through basketball and building a love for the game among youth. The conversation also touches on the revival of pickup games, the role of coaches in youth development, and the joy of competition.

Sports Fam, you can find Swysh Den online at www.SwyshDen.com, and on IG @SwyshDenBasketball.

ABOUT

Sports Will Save Us All is the wildly popular human interest Sports Podcast based in Scottsdale, Arizona and hosted by Sasha Graham. Welcome to the Sports Fam.

To be a guest: Contact us on Podmatch or Via email at SportsWillSaveUsAll@gmail.com

Instagram: @sportswillsaveusall

Website: www.SportsWillSaveUsAll.com

This week on Sports Will Save Us All, host Sasha Graham dives into the wild, rebellious world of women’s sports—on and off the screen. Sparked by her love for the 2009 roller derby cult classic Whip It, Sasha explores what it truly means to find your identity through sport, especially as a woman navigating grit, growth, and expectations.

Joining her in the studio is the remarkable Dr. Devoney Looser—Regents Professor of English at Arizona State University, Jane Austen expert, and yes... roller derby powerhouse known as Stone Cold Jane Austen. Together, they unpack the empowering intersections of sports, literature, feminism, and community. From Devoney’s unexpected journey into roller derby, and the enduring power of Austen, this episode is a vibrant ride through the ways sports can shape who we are.

Find Devoney’s latest book Wild for Austen: A Rebellious, Subversive, and Untamed Jane wherever books are sold. Follow her at www.devoneylooser.com, and check out the ASU Derby Devils on Instagram @derbydevilsasu.

ABOUT

Sports Will Save Us All is the wildly popular human interest Sports Podcast based in Arizona and hosted by Sasha Graham. Welcome to the Sports Fam.

To be a guest: Contact us on Podmatch or Via email at SportsWillSaveUsAll@gmail.com

Instagram: @sportswillsaveusall

Website: www.SportsWillSaveUsAll.com

In this solo episode of Sports Will Save Us All, host Sasha Graham takes a moment to reflect on a whirlwind summer and the ever-evolving journey of podcasting. From celebrating recognition by the Women Who Podcast Awards to sharing personal lessons on vulnerability and growth, Sasha opens up about what’s been happening behind the mic.

She dives into surprising research about cold plunges (are they actually holding back your gains?), shares a story about a moment of pure "sporty joy," and yes—she even weighs in on the mystery surrounding Aaron Rodgers’ wife.

With thoughtful insights, a few laughs, and a whole lot of heart, this episode is a reminder of the joy that connection through sports can bring. Sasha also invites listeners to join the conversation—because your voice matters here.

ABOUT

Sports Will Save Us All is the wildly popular human interest Sports Podcast based in Arizona and hosted by Sasha Graham. Welcome to the Sports Fam.

To be a guest: Contact us on Podmatch or Via email at SportsWillSaveUsAll@gmail.com

Instagram: @sportswillsaveusall

Website: www.SportsWillSaveUsAll.com