Marnie Schneider, granddaughter of legendary Eagles owner Leonard Tose, is the author of the Football Freddie & Fumble the Dog series, which introduces young readers to football, history, and city pride. With 11 books and more in development, her work promotes literacy and a love for sports. A dedicated philanthropist, she supports education and veteran initiatives. Her books are available on Amazon and directly from the publisher.
Calling an Audible: Navigating Life’s Unexpected Plays
by Marnie Schneider
Life is full of plays—some go exactly as planned, and others? Well, sometimes you have to call an audible. As women, we juggle careers, families, friendships, dreams, and responsibilities that often feel never-ending. But through it all, we keep moving forward. We adjust. We find a way.
I’ve learned a lot from my journey—from growing up surrounded by football, to raising my children, to writing 11 books, to caring for my mom, to navigating love and loss. And if there’sone thing I know for sure, it’s this: women are stronger than we sometimes give ourselves credit for.
So here are a few insights that might help you on your path, whether you’re pushing through a challenge, reaching for a new goal, or just needing a reminder of your own resilience:
1. Your Path Is Yours—Own It
There’s no single roadmap to success or happiness. Whether you’re a working mom, an entrepreneur, a caregiver, or chasing a dream that others don’t fully understand—your journey is valid. Don’t measure your progress against someone else’s highlight reel. Trust yourself, and keep going.
2. It’s Okay to Rest, But Don’t Quit
Life throws obstacles at us—some expected, some completely out of left field. It’s okay to feel tired. It’s okay to take a moment to breathe. But don’t let exhaustion make you forget why you started in the first place. Take breaks, not exits.
3. Gratitude is a Superpower
When things feel overwhelming, gratitude has a way of shifting everything. Even in the hardest moments, there’s something to be thankful for—a friend who shows up, a small victory, a lesson learned. Gratitude doesn’t mean ignoring difficulties, but it helps remind us of the good, even in the tough times.
4. Confidence is Built, Not Given
No one hands you confidence—it’s earned through experience, through showing up, through proving to yourself that you are capable. The key? Do the thing, even if you’re scared. Speak up in the meeting. Start the project. Step into the opportunity. Confidence follows action.
5. Support Other Women
We rise higher when we lift each other. Celebrate the wins of other women. Share opportunities. Offer encouragement. There is enough success, happiness, and joy for all of us. A strong woman standing alone is powerful—but a group of strong women supporting each other? Unstoppable.
6. Love Yourself Like You’d Love Your Best Friend
We are so good at showing love, patience, and understanding to others. But do we offer ourselves the same grace? If you wouldn’t speak to your best friend the way you speak to yourself, it’s time to rewrite that inner dialogue. You deserve kindness, too.
You’ve Got This
No matter where you are in life right now—starting fresh, rebuilding, thriving, struggling—just know that you are capable, worthy, and equipped to handle whatever comes next.
So take that next step. Try. Keep believing. And remember: You are stronger than you think, and the best chapters of your story are still ahead.
