About the Illinois Girls Wrestling Podcast

Girls wrestling in Illinois is growing fast—and families deserve a clear, welcoming place to learn the sport, ask questions, and hear real stories from the mat.

The Illinois Girls Wrestling Podcast gives parents, coaches, and athletes a simple, honest look at girls’ wrestling in Illinois—from youth and kids clubs to middle school and high school programs. Each episode tackles the questions families actually ask (like “What’s the best age to start?”), shares inspiring athlete journeys, and breaks down the basics so you can support your wrestler with confidence.

What you’ll hear on the show

  • Beginner-friendly answers to common parent questions

  • Interviews with Illinois coaches, athletes, and community leaders

  • Real talk about training, tournaments, mindset, and growth

  • Practical guidance on topics like healthy habits, recovery, and fueling (without the hype)

Who this podcast is for

  • Parents new to wrestling (or still deciding if it’s the right sport)

  • Girls wrestlers at any level—from first practice to postseason goals

  • Coaches and supporters who want to grow the sport the right way

  • Anyone cheering for the future of Illinois girls wrestling

Meet Your Host: Lena Burkut

Host Lena Burkut is a Chicago-suburbs mom of three with a deep love for storytelling and community-building. Originally from Russia, Lena earned a graduate degree in television journalism and has spent years creating family-focused media and video projects—always centered on real life, real people, and the moments that matter. (Way 2 Goodlife)

As a wrestling parent, Lena brings a practical, encouraging perspective to the sport—making the podcast a friendly starting point for new families, and a meaningful spotlight for the girls putting in the work every day. She is currently a part of the Wheeling Wildcat Wrestling in Wheeling, IL.

Why we made this

Because girls deserve mat time and a microphone.

This podcast exists to celebrate Illinois girl wrestlers, help families feel less overwhelmed, and build a stronger, more connected wrestling community—one story (and one helpful episode) at a time.

Be part of the show

Have a question you want answered on an episode? Want to recommend a guest, coach, or athlete story Illinois needs to hear?

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