The Sports Mecca of America: Inside Chicago's Biggest Moment for Women's Sports

Welcome back to another episode of All For the Love of Chicago , the podcast where we spotlight the people, experiences, and unforgettable moments that continue to shape the spirit of Chicago. We kick things off with “The Deep Dish” as Lisa welcomes Clarissa Flores as guest co-host while Kristen is away.

Lisa and Clarissa discuss her journey from competing as a Division I student-athlete at Northwestern University to building a successful career in Chicago's hospitality industry. As Director of Operations at TAO Hospitality Group Chicago, Clarissa has helped oversee one of the city's premier entertainment destinations, but her passion for sports and her hometown inspired her latest venture: Level Sporting Club.

She shares how the new Wrigleyville hotspot is creating a dedicated home for women's sports fans while celebrating Chicago's thriving and rapidly growing women's sports community. In our featured segment, “ We're Lovin' It ,” Lisa and Clarissa are joined by Nadia Rawlinson, Co-Owner and Operating Chairman of the Chicago Sky and Co-Chair of the Chicago All-Star 2026 Host Committee.

Nadia shares the excitement surrounding the upcoming AT&T WNBA All-Star festivities as Chicago prepares to welcome the basketball world, including celebrations at the brand-new Obama Presidential Center. She also discusses the Line 'Em Up initiative, which is helping inspire the next generation of girls through greater access to basketball across Chicago, and reflects on the incredible growth and momentum behind women's sports.

Plus, Nadia shares a memorable story about joining fellow Chicago civic leaders on a special visit to the Vatican, where they had the opportunity to meet Chicago-born Pope Leo XIV. We wrap up with Let's ChicaGO , where Joanie and Fabiola highlight some of Chicago's favorite summer traditions and can't-miss seasonal events.

This episode features a stop at the iconic Rainbow Cone, the uplifting sounds of the Chicago Gospel Music Festival, and a look at beloved neighborhood celebrations, including the Chinatown Summer Fair, Wicker Park Fest, and Fiesta del Sol, making it the perfect time to experience the energy, culture, and community that define summer in Chicago. WNBA All-Star Festivities: Follow Along on Instagram: Choose Chicago: All For the Love of Chicago: Visit for more information, and be sure to subscribe wherever you get your podcasts!

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