المحتوى المقدم من Banterscape Media. يتم تحميل جميع محتويات البودكاست بما في ذلك الحلقات والرسومات وأوصاف البودكاست وتقديمها مباشرة بواسطة Banterscape Media أو شريك منصة البودكاست الخاص بهم. إذا كنت تعتقد أن شخصًا ما يستخدم عملك المحمي بحقوق الطبع والنشر دون إذنك، فيمكنك اتباع العملية الموضحة هنا https://ar.player.fm/legal.
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The truth is out West! We’re hopping on the ET Highway and venturing to the most notorious alien hot spots, including Roswell’s infamous crash site, Area 51’s eerie perimeter, and a mysterious desert watchtower. Join us as journalist Laura Krantz, host of the podcast Wild Thing , beams up to share stories from the front lines of UFO reporting—from strange sightings and quirky festivals to a mailbox where people leave letters to extraterrestrials. Maybe you’ll even decide for yourself: Is Earth a tourist stop for spaceships? UFO hot spots you’ll encounter in this episode: - UFO Watchtower (near Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado) - Roswell, New Mexico - Area 51, Nevada - Extraterrestrial Highway (aka State Route 375), Nevada - Little A’Le’Inn, ET Highway, Nevada - E.T. Fresh Jerky, ET Highway, Nevada - Alien Research Center, ET Highway, Nevada - The Black Mailbox, ET Highway, Nevada Via Podcast is a production of AAA Mountain West Group .…
المحتوى المقدم من Banterscape Media. يتم تحميل جميع محتويات البودكاست بما في ذلك الحلقات والرسومات وأوصاف البودكاست وتقديمها مباشرة بواسطة Banterscape Media أو شريك منصة البودكاست الخاص بهم. إذا كنت تعتقد أن شخصًا ما يستخدم عملك المحمي بحقوق الطبع والنشر دون إذنك، فيمكنك اتباع العملية الموضحة هنا https://ar.player.fm/legal.
In the Front Row with Mike Vaccaro is your front row seat to one-on-one conversations with sports figures. Our guests are hall of famers, gold medalists, record holders, trailblazers and more. We share stories from all sports and eras to bring you amazing guests with incredible accounts of the moments that made them the athlete and person they are today.
المحتوى المقدم من Banterscape Media. يتم تحميل جميع محتويات البودكاست بما في ذلك الحلقات والرسومات وأوصاف البودكاست وتقديمها مباشرة بواسطة Banterscape Media أو شريك منصة البودكاست الخاص بهم. إذا كنت تعتقد أن شخصًا ما يستخدم عملك المحمي بحقوق الطبع والنشر دون إذنك، فيمكنك اتباع العملية الموضحة هنا https://ar.player.fm/legal.
In the Front Row with Mike Vaccaro is your front row seat to one-on-one conversations with sports figures. Our guests are hall of famers, gold medalists, record holders, trailblazers and more. We share stories from all sports and eras to bring you amazing guests with incredible accounts of the moments that made them the athlete and person they are today.
Anthony Robles was born to a teenage mother who was still in high school. Additionally, Anthony was born missing his right leg up to his hip. His mom, Judy, encouraged Anthony to live a life no different than kids his age. That encouragement led to Anthony playing a variety of sports, but it wasn't until his cousin introduced him to wrestling in the 8th grade that he found his calling. Utilizing his grip strength honed from using his crutches, Robles excelled and went 96-0 his last two years at Mesa High School in Arizona. After he won a high school National Championship, he received just one scholarship offer to Drexel. He dreamed of wrestling for national power Iowa but decided to walk on at nearby Arizona State. For the Sun Devils, Robles became a three-time All-American at 125 pounds. He capped his career by winning the 2011 National Championship against Matt McDonough from Iowa and was named the tournament's Most Outstanding Wrestler. Robles won the Jimmy V Award for Perseverance at the ESPY's where he was presented by Jay Leno. He later chronicled his journey in his autobiography, "Unstoppable", a line from a poem written by Dan Clark that Anthony read at the ESPY's. Following several delays. "Unstoppable" became a movie released earlier this year on Prime produced by Ben Affleck and Matt Damon and starring Jharrel Jerome as Anthony and Jennifer Lopez as Judy (Anthony was Jerome's body double). Anthony shares his incredible story and the impact his mom has had in his life. He tells us his response to opponents saying his missing leg gave him an unfair advantage. Robles also tells us how a third-grade class changed his outlook on his career and helped lead to his undefeated senior season. Plus, he tells us why he enjoys being a motivational speaker, his goal as a high school coach in Arizona and his love for the NFL's Raiders.…
Amy Van Dyken-Rouen grew up in Colorado and started swimming to combat her asthma. She soon excelled at the sport and just missed out on making the 1992 US Olympic Swim Team. She swam collegiately at Arizona for 2 years before transferring to Colorado State where she almost quit the sport. Instead, Van Dyken-Rouen swam for the Rams and broke the US record for the 50-yard freestyle at the NCAA Championships with a time of 21.77 seconds. Named the 1994 NCAA Female Swimmer of the Year, Van Dyken-Rouen moved to the US Training Center in Colorado Springs where she qualified for the 1996 Atlanta Olympics. At those games, she became the first American female athlete to win 4 gold medals in a single Olympic Games when she won the 50-yard freestyle, 100 butterfly, the 4×100 medley relay and the 4×100 freestyle relay. After that feat, the 23-year-old won many major awards, was on the cover of magazines, made numerous TV appearances and was inducted into the US Olympic Hall of Fame. She battled injuries the next four years, but once again qualified for the US Olympic Team and won two more gold medals in the Sydney Olympics at 27 years old. Van Dyken-Rouen retired from the sport after Sydney and married NFL punter Tom Rouen. Retirement included stints as a radio DJ and NFL sideline reporter along with triathlons. On June 6, 2014, Van Dyken-Rouen's life took a dramatic turn when an ATV accident left her paralyzed from the waist down and nearly ended her life. Recovery from the accident led to an addiction to opioids and additional affects still felt today. She uses her platform to help those dealing with similar issues and has returned to broadcasting. The energetic Van Dyken-Rouen shares her story and tells us how being an athlete helped in her recovery both mentally and physically. She also recounts her Olympic experience and takes us in the pool in Atlanta during a race with an unexpected result. Van Dyken-Rouen also tells us about how her husband stood by her side during an uncertain time after her accident.…
Marc Mero was born in Buffalo before moving to Liverpool, NY where he gravitated to the contact sports of hockey, lacrosse, football and boxing. He was a 4-time state champion boxer, but when an injury ended his dream of boxing in the Olympics, Mero turned to drugs and odd jobs to fill the void. After watching pro wrestling on TV, Mero gave the sport a try at age 30. He trained in Tampa and signed with the WCW in 1990 and worked with Dusty Rhodes to create "Johnny B. Badd". Portraying the flamboyant villain, Mero became a star and eventually negotiated with Vince McMahon to join the WWF (now WWE). Mero retired in 2006 and once again turned to drugs to cope with life's struggles. Down and out one Christmas Eve, Mero had a moment that would change his life and lead him to his current path as a motivational speaker talking to high school and middle school students about bullying and drug addiction. With the release of his memoir, Badd to Good - The Inspiring Story of a Wrestling Wildman , Mero joined us to share his story. He goes behind the scenes of professional wrestling and the training it takes to avoid series injury for him and his opponent. Mero tells us how singer Little Richard inspired his "Johnny B. Badd" character and also takes us in the ring for an early match against wrestling legend Ric Flair. He also remembers his darkest day and leaves us with an inspirational message. (For more on Marc Mero and his memoir, visit https://marcmero.com/ )…
Herm Edwards was born on an Army base with a dad who was a World War II veteran and a German mom. Edwards grew up in Seaside, CA and took to football against his mother’s wishes. He played cornerback at nearby California Berkeley for 2 seasons along with one season at Monterey Peninsula College and San Diego State where he would graduate in 1976 with a criminal justice degree. Undrafted, Edwards signed with the Philadelphia Eagles in 1977. He spent 9 years with the franchise and never missed a regular season game. Along the way, he grabbed 38 interceptions, just 1 shy of the franchise record. Following his playing career, Edwards turned to coaching where he worked under mentors like Marty Schottenheimer and Tony Dungy. He got his own head coaching job in 2001 when he was hired by the New York Jets and was later traded to the Kansas City Chiefs where he replaced Dick Vermeil, his head coach in Philadelphia. He moved onto TV in 2009 when he was hired by ESPN and returned to the network in 2022 after a stint as a college coach. Now 70, Edwards reflects on his journey and shares the lessons he’s learned playing and coaching football. He also tells us about the life-changing moments during his career including the impact quarterback Roman Gabriel had on him. Plus, we hear the story behind his first NFL interception and the full-circle moment that came later.…
Herman Moore was born and raised in Danville, VA where he was a three-sport athlete playing basketball, football and running track. After decommitting from Virginia Tech, Moore played for rival Virginia becoming an All-ACC and All-American wide receiver under Hall of Fame coach George Welsh. The Detroit Lions drafted Moore 10th overall in 1991 and in his rookie season, he helped lead Detroit to their first playoff win in 34 years. He made the Pro Bowl 4 times and finished his career with all the Detroit receiving records. In this episode, Moore shares his journey and takes us inside his NFL career explaining the differences between his many quarterbacks. He also tells us what it was like playing alongside Hall of Fame running back Barry Sanders and tells us what keepsake of Sanders he won't part with. Moore explains why his numbers make him worthy of the Pro Football Hall of Fame and hints at what his induction speech might include. He talks about being a fan favorite in Detroit and why he's still part of the community. Moore also gives us his take on The Curse of Babby Layne.…
Leland Melvin was born and raised in Lynchburg, VA in the 1960s during the time of the moon landing in 1969. But, instead of wanting to be the next Neil Armstrong or Buzz Aldrin, Melvin wanted to be the next Arthur Ashe. While tennis didn't become his sport, football did, and Melvin earned a scholarship to the University of Richmond. Playing for the Spiders from 1982-85, Melvin set records as a wide receiver and was inducted into the Richmond Athletics Hall of Fame. He was drafted in the NFL by the Detroit Lions in 1986 but a hamstring injury ended his time in Detroit. Melvin gave it another try playing for Tom Laundry and the Dallas Cowboys, but an injury would ultimately end his professional football aspirations. During this time, Melvin worked on his master's degree from the University of Virginia and in 1989 started working at NASA's Langley Research Center. He was selected as an astronaut in 1998 and flew two missions on Space Shuttle Atlantis in 2008 visiting the International Space Station where he helped build a laboratory. After logging 565 hours in space, Melvin retired and returned to Lynchburg. He wrote his autobiography, "Chasing Space", and became a motivational speaker. Melvin shares his incredible story with us including obstacles that nearly ended his chance to become an astronaut. He also tells us the role football played in his career in space and takes us through what it's like traveling at 17,500mph. Plus, we go behind-the-scenes of his viral photo of him and his dogs that would become the cover of his autobiography. Now an author of a book for young readers, Melvin gives us the backstory of "Space Chasers" which is the first in a series of books featuring middle school students in an exclusive NASA program. (Special thanks to MacMillan Publishers for arranging our interview with Melvin. For more in "Space Chasers" or to order a copy, visit https://us.macmillan.com/books/9781250782779/spacechasersbylelandmelvin/ ).…
Chucky Brown was born and raised in New York City before moving to Southeastern North Carolina his sophomore year in high school. He was a standout at North Brunswick High School in Leland, NC and was named the 1985 North Carolina Mr. Basketball along with All-State and All-America. Although he grew up a North Carolina Tar Heel fan, Brown chose NC State and coach Jim Valvano. He played for the Wolfpack from 1985-89 and helped lead the Pack to Elite 8 and Sweet 16 appearances while being named All-ACC in 1989. Cleveland drafted Brown in the 2nd round in 1989 starting his NBA journey that would last 13 years playing for 12 teams which was a record at the time. 1995 would prove to be a banner year for Brown as he won a Continental Basketball Association title with the Yakima Sun Kings before he helped the Houton Rockets win an NBA title. After his career ended, Brown turned to coaching and scouting while he also finished his degree at NC State. Brown was recently inducted into the Greater Wilmington Sports Hall of Fame and shares what that honor means to him. He also remembers the players he played with, and against, in college and the NBA and tells us why coach Lenny Wilkins had a great impact on him. He also takes us back to the secret pick-up games his college teammates played against players from North Carolina, Duke and North Carolina Central in the 1980s; and he tells us which teammate ended those games. Brown also tells us what he has in common with fellow NC State standout Julius Hodge, our guest in Ep. 98 of In The Front Row: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hk8E8QmaLqQ&t=164s . Plus, Brown considers what’s ahead for him and why his daughters might be providing a great example.…
Boubacar Aw was born and raised in Sengela in West Africa. Like most Senegalese children, he played soccer and loved the sport. However, a growth spurt led to basketball and a new love. Georgetown assistant coach Craig Esherick helped discover Aw along with fellow Senegalese player Ya-Ya Dia. In 1993, at age 17 and speaking only French and Wolof, Aw moved to Lake Waccamaw, NC. He played one season at East Columbus High School and was the Player of the Year whole also graduating. From 1994-98 he attended Georgetown and played for Hall of Fame coach John Thompson. Instead of rooming with friend Dia, Aw was paired with Allen Iverson by his veteran coach. During his four years, Aw helped lead the Hoyas to the NCAA Tournament three times including a run to the Elite 8 in 1996 where the Hoyas lost to Marcus Camby and top seed UMass. Aw graduated in 1998 with honors and spent the next 13 years playing professionally overseas earning numerous honors. When his body told him it was time to retire, Aw moved back to Southeastern North Carolina and started teaching in Wilmington. When an opportunity arose to coach the girls’ basketball team at Hoggard High School, Aw volunteered and has led the Vikings to over 200 wins in his career. Aw shares stories from his journey to the United State including how he overcame the language barrier. He tells us what he learned from playing for Coach Thompson and rooming with Iverson. Aw describes his coaching style and explains why he’s just a “country boy” at heart.…
Jake Plummer grew up in Idaho playing sports with his two older brothers. A three-sport athlete in high school, Plummer became an All-State quarterback who wanted to go to Stanford. Instead of being a walk-on for the Cardinal, he accepted a scholarship to Arizona State where he played for Bruce Snyder and became a starter his freshman year. A record-setting career culminated in 1996 when the Sun Devils were 11-0 before falling in the Rose Bowl denying them a chance at a share of the National Championship. That senior season, Plummer was the PAC 10 Offensive Player of the Year, a First-Team All-American and finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting behind Danny Wuerffel (Ep. 22 featuring Wuerffel: https://bit.ly/40wgbLf). Plummer was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame in 2019. Ten years in the NFL followed college including the first six in Arizona where he helped lead the Cardinals to a postseason victory in 1998, their first in 51 years. He finished his career with the Denver and helped lead the Broncos to the 2005 AFC Championship game, falling to Pittsburgh. Since his retirement in 2007, Plummer has played handball professionally and helped co-found Umbo Functional Mushrooms for Athletes. In this episode, Plummer shares his journey and remembers his teammates including the late Pat Tillman who he played with at Arizona State and with the Arizona Cardinals. He also tells us about being labeled a "gunslinger" and why he likes his nickname, Jack "The Snake". He also explains the benefits of the natural ingredients Umbo uses and the positive affects the mushrooms have on the body and mind (Get 15% off your order at https://getumbo.com/ using the code ITFR15). In the Front Row with Mike Vaccaro is your front row seat to one-on-one conversations with sports figures. Each episode we go beyond the bio and hear about the stories that made headlines. Our guests are hall of famers, gold medalists, record holders, trailblazers and more. We cover all sports and all eras to bring you amazing guests with incredible accounts of the moments that made them the athlete and person they are today. Join us as our guests share memories of their best, and worst, moments of their journey in sports and in life.…
Ryan Nyquist grew up in California riding bikes and doing trikes with his brother. What started out as a hobby became a profession when he left college and turned pro in 1995. He competed in his first X Games in 1996 and would rise to the top of the sport soon after. He moved to Greenville, NC where he lived with, and competed against, BMX legend Dave Mirra. Known for his bar spin variations, Nyquist won 16 medals at the X Games including 4 gold medals. In addition to BMX, Nyquist also competed in freeride and slopestyle mountain biking. He was inducted into the National BMX Hall of Fame in 2023. From competing to coaching, Nyquist is the head coach of Team USA's Olympic BMX Freestyle Team leading them in Tokyo, Paris and again in his home state for the 2028 LA Olympics. Now living in Wilmington, NC, Nyquist tells us about becoming one of the bests along with what he learned from the late Dave Mirra. He also takes us through several high moments along with several of the worst crashes he's endured. Plus, he describes the business he runs with his wife and the love for BMX that his son shares with him. In the Front Row with Mike Vaccaro is your front row seat to one-on-one conversations with sports figures. Each episode we go beyond the bio and hear about the stories that made headlines. Our guests are hall of famers, gold medalists, record holders, trailblazers and more. We cover all sports and all eras to bring you amazing guests with incredible accounts of the moments that made them the athlete and person they are today. Join us as our guests share memories of their best, and worst, moments of their journey in sports and in life.…
Mario Andretti was born in Italy during World War II. At 8 years old, he and his family spent time in a refugee camp in Italy before moving to the United States. The Andretti family settled in Nazareth, PA where Mario and twin brother Aldo discovered the nearby Nazareth Speedway. Lying about their age and experience, the brothers began racing at age 19 sharing one car and one helmet. Racing quickly became a passion and led to a career that prospered in the 1960s. He raced all discplines and won NASCAR's Daytona 500 in 1967 and the Indianapolis 500 in 1969. He raced Formula 1 in the 1970s and 1980s and returned to IndyCar winning the Pocono 500 in 1986. He watched his sons Michael and Jeff and grandson Marco follow in the family business that was built into Andretti Global. A member of numerous halls of fame, Andretti recounts his life including the moment he and his family passed the Statue of Liberty on their way from Italy. He remembers some of the big wins and also takes us behind the wheel for his crash at the 2003 Indianapolis 500 during testing. He also shares the enjoyment he gets out of his family's successes and why he's still involved with the sport. Plus, he gives us his take on whether or not racing is a sport.…
Nick Mangold grew up in Ohio, the oldest of four kids with three sisters. He was all-state in football while also wrestling and competing in the shot put. A highly recruited offensive lineman, Mangold chose Ohio State over Notre Dame despite his mom's wishes that he'd play for the Fighting Irish. A three-year starter at center for Jim Tressel, Mangold was a member of the 2002 National Championship team for the Buckeyes and won three Fiesta Bowls including his senior season defeating Notre Dame. The Jets made him the 29th overall pick in 2006 and he played his entire 11-year career in New York where he was a 7-time Pro Bowler who committed just 20 penalties in 164 games. At one time the highest paid center in the NFL, Mangold officially retired in 2018 and was inducted into the Jets Ring of Honor in 2022. Mangold remembers his journey and recounts his recruiting process along with the draft process. He also describes the role of a center in the offense, how his wrestling career helped his football career and his welcome to the NFL moment. Mangold also tells us what it was like playing with a revolving door of quarterbacks in New York and why he never entertained going anywhere else. Plus, Mangold gives us his take on being eligible for the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Now the owner of Mangold's 74 BBQ Sauce (https://www.mangolds74bbq.com/), he shares how the business began, the cause it benefits and the sauces that are named after his four kids.…
Julius Hodge grew up in Harlem and was named after NBA Hall of Famer Julius Erving. He fell in love with basketball after his dad took him to a New York Knicks game against Magic Johnson and the Los Angeles Lakers as a kid. Hodge's game flourished in high school where he was a McDonald's All-American and the New York State Mr. Basketball. He grew up a Syracuse fan but spurned the Orangemen for NC State where he played for Herb Sendek. In Raleigh, Hodge was a two-time All-American and the ACC Player of the Year as a junior. He was a first-round pick of the Denver Nuggets in 2005 and played alongside several future Hall of Famers. After 3 years in the NBA, Hodge spent 8 years playing overseas plus 2011 playing for the Antigua and Barbuda national team. After retiring, Hodge embarked on a coaching career with time spent as an assistant coach at Buffalo, Santa Clara (for Sendek), San Jose State and Arkansas Little Rock. This summer, Hodge was named head coach at Division II Lincoln University in Pennsylvania. Hodge shares his journey including the unusual way he decided to attend NC State. Plus, he talks about the ACC rivals and adversaries like Chris Paul with whom he had an altercation during his time at State. Hodge also recounts the drive-by shooting during his rookie season that changed his perspective on life and tells us what he learned from his time playing overseas. Hodge also gives us insight on his kids and their own hoop dreams.…
Joe Theismann grew up in South River, NJ where he was often found outside playing basketball, baseball or football. After he convinced his mom to allow him to play organized football, he teamed up with future Hall of Famer Drew Pearson at South River High School and became a star. Highly recruited, Theismann initially committed to NC State before eventually signing with Notre Dame and head coach Ara Parseghian. An injury led to him becoming the starting QB his sophomore year and he became an All-American his senior season in 1970. Before that year, his last name was pronounced "Theesmann". But Notre Dame PR man Roger Valdiserri convinced him to change the pronunciation of his name to rhyme with the Heisman Trophy. While he finished second that year for the award behind Jim Plunkett and ahead of Archie Manning, the name stuck. In 1971, he was drafted by the Miami Dolphins in the NFL and the Minnesota Twins in MLB. After failed negotiations with the Dolphins, Theismann signed with the Toronto Argonauts in the CFL. Following three seasons in Toronto, the Washington Redskins obtained Theismann's rights. Waiting his turn at quarterback, Theismann returned punts to stay fresh. He eventually became QB1 with Washington where he led them to the Super Bowl XVII championship over the Dolphins. His playing career came to an end in 1985 after a gruesome injury on Monday Night Football. Broadcasting, speaking and even acting all followed along with charitable work with St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital. In this episode, Joe recounts the many twists and turns of his career. He tells us why Don Shula wasn't his biggest fan, why his injury was a blessing and why St. Jude's has a special place in his heart. He also shares stories from the Super Bowl season and his teammates "The Hogs" and "The Smurfs" - a group he calls "characters with character". Plus, he remembers what it was like hosting the first season of "American Gladiators" and shares why he wore the single bar facemask. (For more on Joe Theismann and you can help his efforts with St. Jude's visit https://www.joetheismann.com/autographs ).For more on the "American Gladiators", watch Episode 90 featuring Dan "Nitro" Clark: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vlSmGTln55g&t=34s…
Tony Silvagni was born in Pennsylvania, but moved to Kure Beach, NC when he was 5. That move led to a love of the water and surfing. Silvagni gravitated to longboard surfing, idolizing surfing legend Kelly Slater. His professional career has taken Silvagni around the world where he has won numerous championships and placed 5th in the world in 2023. Back home in North Carolina, Silvagni owns and operates a surf school and puts his marketing degree from the University of North Carolina Wilmington (UNCW) to good use. Silvagni also organized numerous charities to support his community and was recently inducted into the Wrightsville Beach Hall of Fame. In this episode, Silvagni shares his journey and tells us where the best waves are. He also recounts how he once taught surf lessons to President Barack Obama's Secret Service agents while living in Hawaii. Plus, he explains what it means to be regular or goofy footed, what hang ten means and what animal he had a close encounter with one day in the water.…
Bob Kendrick grew up in the small town of Crawfordville, Georgia. In 1980, he accepted a basketball scholarship to play at Park College in Parkville, Missouri making his way to the Midwest for the first time. Following a 10-year newspaper career, Kendrick began his tenure with the Negro Leagues Baseball Museum in Kansas City, MO in 1998 and was named President in 2011. Since then, Kendrick has had many roles and responsibilities including historian and fundraiser. In this episode, Kendrick tells us about the founding of the Museum in 1990 with the help of former Negro Leagues player Buck O’Neil and shares what made O’Neil a special person. He also recounts the names and stories from the Negro Leagues including Oscar Charleston, Willie Mays, Cool Papa Bell, Satchel Paige, Josh Gibson and others. Kendrick gives his thoughts on the treatment endured by black players of the past and the lack of black players playing baseball today. Plus, he tells us about the growing respect for the Negro Leagues with stats added to MLB records and the focus of the leagues in the recent MLB game at Rickwood Field in Birmingham, Alabama. Kendrick also tells us how the inclusion of Negro League players in a video game has done more to promote the Negro Leagues than anything else.…
Dick LeBeau on 2008 Pittsburgh Steelers, Hall of Fame Playing Career and 45-Year NFL Coaching Career Dick Lebeau was born in London, Ohio just 25 miles from Columbus. He stayed close to home and played for legendary coach Woody Hayes at Ohio State and was a two-way player on the 1957 Buckeyes National Championship team. The Cleveland Browns drafted LeBeau in 1959 but cut him in training camp. He would sign with the Detroit Lions and spend 14 years in the Motor City where he was a three-time Pro Bowler and would be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2010. Following his playing career, LeBeau began what would be a 45-year coaching career starting as special teams coach with the Philadelphia Eagles. That led to an assistant coaching position under Bart Starr at Green Bay and notable stints with the Cincinnati Bengals (19 total seasons) and Pittsburgh Steelers (16 seasons). In his new book published by Triumph Books, "Legendary", co-written with Scott Brown and George Von Benko, LeBeau recounts the 2008 Steelers Super Bowl team. LeBeau tells us what made his defense so special on that 2008 team. He also takes us through his football journey, including lessons learned from Hayes and why he had mixed emotions working for Bart Starr. Now 86 years old, LeBeau still follows the NFL and tells us what his Sundays are like away from the game.…
Josh Rawitch is a Los Angeles native who grew up playing baseball and idolizing the Los Angeles Dodgers. He attended Indiana University thinking he would be the next Vin Scully and instead became Scully's "boss" during his 15 years working for the Dodgers rising to Vice President of Communications. Rawitch also spent a decade working for the Arizona Diamondbacks ss Senior Vice President of Content and Communications before he was named President of the National Baseball Hall of Fame and Museum in September of 2021. As just the 8th president in the 85 years of the Hall, Rawitch recently took part in his 3rd induction ceremony in Cooperstown, NY where the Class of 2024 included former Dodger Adrian Beltre'. He tells us what makes the Hall so special and remembers moments around the game's greats like Johnny Bench. We hear about some of the Hall's exhibits including a new exhibit coming next July highlighting the Japanese influence on the national pastime. Rawitch also tells us how the Hall decides what new items to collect such as a Shohei Ohtani bat and Paul Skenes' All Star Game hat. Along with his love of baseball, Rawitch also tells us about his infatuation with the Dave Matthews Band which he's seen more than 70 times in concert.…
Lance Parrish was born in Pennsylvania and grew up in California where he was a three-sport star in high school. With an offer to play football at UCLA, Parrish was drafted in the first round by the Detroit Tigers in 1974 and decided to start his professional career. While making his way through the minor leagues, Parrish had a brief stint as a "bodyguard" for singer Tina Turner, a story that attracted much attention at the time. He made his MLB debut in September of 1977 and had a somewhat memorable first hit during his second game. He became the starting catcher in 1979 and the Tigers started to come together when Sparky Anderson took over as manager that same season. It all led to 1984 when the Tigers began the season 35-5 on their way to 104 wins and the team's first World Series title in 16 years. Now a special assistant to the Tigers GM, Parrish looks back at his 19-year career that included 8 All-Star appearances, 3 Gold Glove awards, 6 Silver Slugger awards and the nickname "The Big Wheel" given to him by broadcaster Mel Allen. He also tells us what it was like to catch Jack Morris' no-hitter in the fourth game of the 1984 season and setting the homerun record for American League catchers. The stories and more are also shared in "The Enchanted Season" co-written by Tom Gage and published by Triumph Books (https://www.triumphbooks.com/the-enchanted-season-products-9781637275641.php).…
Dre' Bly Reflects on His 11-year NFL Journey, from Winning a Super Bowl to Coaching Dre' Bly grew up in Chesapeake, VA raised by parents who were long-time educators. Bly played multiple sports as a kid highlighted by baseball and football. A fan of Michael Jordan and the Tar Heels, Bly chose to play at North Carolina over schools like Virginia, Virginia Tech and Syracuse. Playing for coaches Mack Brown and Carl Torbush, Bly was a three-time First Team All-American. As a freshman, he led the country with 13 interceptions and was named ACC Rookie of the Year. (In 2014, Bly was inducted into the College Football Hall of Fame.) In 1999, the St. Louis Rams drafted Bly in the 2nd Round starting what would be an 11-year career in the NFL. He won a Super Bowl (XXXIV) and lost a Super Bowl (XXXVI) with the Rams before signing with the Detroit Lions as a free agent in 2003. The cornerback was a two-time Pro Bowler with the Lions before spending time with the Denver Broncos and the San Francisco 49ers. Following his playing days, Bly coached youth sports in the Charlotte, NC area before coaching back at his alma mater along with the NFL. He's returned to Charlotte as Defensive Analyst for the Charlotte 49ers, coaching alongside his son Trey who is a student assistant. In this episode, Bly shares his journey and the role his parents and coaches played in his career. He tells us about a special bond he shares with former rival, turned teammate Torry Holt. He also tells us what it means to be in several halls of fame and what the future holds for him in coaching.…
Dan “Nitro” Clark on being an American Gladiator and Netflix docuseries “Muscles & Mayhem” Dan Clark was born in Japan. After trying boxing and baseball, he turned to football which would take him to San Jose State and a brief stint in the NFL with the Los Angeles Rams. When his football career ended, Clark moved to Hollywood with Arnold Schwarzenegger and Sylvester Stallone as his role models. He eventually auditioned for a sports game show and would get the call after one specific line he used during his audition. He became “Nitro” on American Gladiators which would become a hit show in the 1990s and become a cultural phenomenon. Clark shares about his time on the show and the stories that became the basis for a book that was turned into a hit Netflix docuseries “Muscles & Mayhem”. He also tells us about his ventures after the show ended along with his outlook on life as he gets set to celebrate his 60th birthday.…
Joe Kleine grew up in Slater, Missouri where he was a 2nd Team Parade All-American basketball player. Raised Catholic and a big Notre Dame fan, Kleine chose to play for the Fighting Irish and head coach Digger Phelps. After transferring to Arkansas where he played for another legendary coach in Eddie Sutton, Kleine saw his game flourish. From 1982-85, Kleine and the Razorbacks were a force in the Southwest Conference often battling with Houston’s “Phi Slama Jama” Cougars led by Hakeem Olajuwon and Clyde Drexler. Before his senior season, Kleine helped lead the US Olympic team to a gold medal in the Los Angeles Olympics playing for Bob Knight and alongside Michael Jordan. In 1985, Kleine was drafted 6th overall by the Sacramento Kings and would begin a 15-year career in the NBA. During his stops, Kleine was coached by Bill Russell, was teammates with Larry Bird, Charles Barkley and Michael Jordan, and battled against some of the game’s greatest big men. He won an NBA title with the Bulls in 1998 and would eventually retire in 2000. Now a broadcaster for the SEC Network and owner of multiple Corkey’s Ribs and BBQ restaurants, Kleine shares his journey with us including his Top 5 Centers he faced.…
Jack "Goose" Givens on 1978 Kentucky National Championship and his NBA coach Hubie Brown Jack Givens grew up in the housing projects of Lexington, KY playing baseball, but his sport of choice changed as his body changed and he started to grow. His growth spurt helped him excel at basketball and become Mr. Kentucky Basketball and a Prade All-American in 1974 while also earning his nickname "Goose". Kentucky head coach Joe B. Hall and Big Blue Nation convinced Givens to stay home. Playing for the Wildcats, Givens helped them to a national runner-up finish his freshman year followed by NIT appearances. Everything came together in his senior year when he led the Wildcats to the 1978 NCAA National Championship with a win against Duke scoring 41 points to earn Most Outstanding Player. A fan favorite, he finished his career with 2038 points, was a three-time All-SEC selection and an All-American playing in Rupp Arena were his #21 jersey currently hangs. Drafted by the Atlanta Hawks, Givens played two seasons for head coach Hubie Brown before playing several years overseas. Business and broadcasting followed his playing career including his current role back in Lexington as the analyst on Kentucky Radio broadcasts. In this episode, Givens shares his story with us including how the 1966 Texas Western basketball team's win over Kentucky in the NCAA Championship game opened his eyes to the possibility of him playing for the Wildcats. He also recounts a deeply personal and difficult moment in his life that's a part of his new memoir coming out this year. Plus, he gives us his Top 5 Kentucky Wildcats basketball players of all time.…
Kevin Eastman on the 2008 Celtics Championship TEAM and Coaching KG, Ray Allen, And Paul Pierce Kevin Eastman grew up in New Jersey playing basketball. After graduating high school, Eastman played at Richmond where he was a two-time captain and 1000-point scorer (he was inducted into the Richmond Athletics Hall of Fame in 2004). Eastman played one year of pro ball before he started his coaching career. Following several stops as an assistant coach, Eastman became a head coach at Belmont Abbey in 1986. Stints at UNCW (1990-94) and Washington State (1994-99) followed before Eastman served 4 years as Athletic Director at Randolph-Macon College. While working with Nike Basketball, Eastman found himself at a camp that led to a successful career as an NBA assistant coach under Doc Rivers. From 2004-2013 Eastman coached with the Boston Celtics and helped lead the storied franchise to the 2008 NBA title against Kobe Bryant and the Los Angeles Lakers. Eastman ended his time in the NBA spending three years alongside Rivers with the Los Angeles Clippers. Now a motivational speaker and author, Eastman shares his experiences and the lessons he's learned from some of the best players he's coached. He also recounts his time at UNCW and what made coaching the Seahawks so special. Plus, he gives us his Top 5 list of players he's coached.…
Josh Bonifay grew up around baseball with a grandfather who was a minor league general manager and a dad who was the GM for the Pittsburgh Pirates. After excelling in high school, Bonifay attended UNCW where he played for legendary head coach Mark Scalf. Following his junior year, he was drafted by the Pirates receiving the phone call from his dad. Bonifay spent 8 years in minor league baseball before injuries eventually forced him to retire. Bonifay returned to UNCW to earn his degree before pursuing a coaching and managing career back in the minors. Josh eventually moved to MLB front office positions with the Philadelphia Phillies and the Word Series Champion Texas Rangers. In this episode, Bonifay remembers what it was like being around professional baseball players such as Barry Bonds, Ken Griffey Jr. and others while his dad was GM of the Pirates. He shares what made his time at UNCW so special and why he still has ties to the Seahawk program. Plus, we hear about his future professional goals along with his Top 5 players he’s been around including a very special player that tops that list.…
Brett Blizzard on UNCW Basketball, LESSONS learned from Coach Jerry Wainwright and playing in Italy Brett Blizzard grew up in Tallahassee, FL playing football for his dad, Al, but focused on basketball when his dad coached the high school team. A prolific scorer and Player of the Year at Florida State University School, Blizzard chose to play for UNCW (University of North Carolina Wilmington) over walking on at Florida State or attending other schools. From 1999-2003, Blizzard helped lead the Seahawks to their first three CAA Championships while becoming the all-time leading scorer. He was also the CAA Rookie of the Year, a four-time First Team All-CAA Selection and two-time CAA Player of the Year. Following his time in Wilmington, NC, Blizzard played 16 years professionally in Italy in addition to two stints in the NBA Summer League. In this episode, Blizzard remembers his time at UNCW and what it was like playing for coaches Jerry Wainwright and Brad Brownell. He shares what it took to be the player he became and what it's like to have his jersey retired by the school. Blizzard also tells us about what he's doing now to help current and future Seahawks, and he gives us his list of Top 5 players he loved to play against.…
Scoop Jackson on writing about Sports and Hip Hop, plus lessons learned from NBA Legend George Gervin Robert “Scoop” Jackson was born and raised in Chicago and given his nickname by his Uncle. He attended Xavier University of Louisiana intending to be a lawyer. After earning a Master of Arts degree from Howard, Jackson went into writing following advice from a professor. That advice led to a career writing about sports with publications such as SLAM , Hoop and Inside Stuff , along with Hip Hop magazine XXL . Jackson recently co-authored the book Ice with NBA Legend George Gervin published by Triumph Books. In this episode, he shares his story with us including the origins of his nickname, his first article for SLAM featuring Shaquille O’Neal and his thoughts on the 50th anniversary of Hip Hop. He also tells us what life lessons he learned from George Gervin and looks back at his career as he turns 60. Additionally, we hear about the person he wished he could have interviewed, his fandom for the Chicago White Sox and New York Knicks and why the late 60 Minutes and CBS Nes reporter Ed Bradley is his idol.…
Dr. Matt Provencher on working with the Navy Seals and Bill Belichick plus the Grass vs. Turf debate Dr. Matt Provencher attended the US Naval Academy where he was an All-American oarsman. That experience led him to a career as an orthopedic surgeon. His first job was developing a training program for the Navy Seal Teams followed by an opportunity working with Bill Belichick and the New England Patriots as head team physician. One of the country's top shoulder and knee surgeons, Dr. Provencher has his own practice and is also the Fox Sports Athletic Injury and Performance Analyst while also co-hosting The Predictors (https://thepredictors.com/) using NFL Injury Analytics. In this episode, Dr. Provencher shares his journey and his injury knowledge. He explains the difference between grass and turf when it comes to injuries and takes us inside the recent procedures used to repair Achilles injuries like the one suffered by NY Jets quarterback Aaron Rodgers. He also explains the recent shoulder injury suffered by Colts quarterback Antony Richardson, the advancements made with concussions and how his Navy training has prepared him to be ready for any situation such as Demar Hamlin's cardiac arrest.…
Steve Wright from the LA Raiders to SURVIVING 31 Days on "Survivor" Before a long career in the NFL and lasting 31 days on Survivor, Steve Wright was a four-sport athlete as a youth playing football, basketball, hockey as well as track & field. He played football for four years at Northern Iowa and was later inducted into the school's athletic hall of fame. An 11-year NFL career started in Dallas where he made the Cowboys as a free-agent and played for legendary head coach Tom Landry. After two years with the Balitmore/Indianapolis Colts and one year in the USFL, Wright found a home with the Los Angeles Raiders. From 1987-93, Wright played offensive line for the Silver and Black blocking for notable running backs Marcus Allen and Bo Jackson while also competing against Howie Long in practice. Wright moved on from the NFL after the 1993 season to begin a successful business career with a mist cooling company called Cloudburst. In 2010, he was invited to be a contestant on the 22nd season of "Survivor" and lasted 31 days on the show. Wright shares these moments of his life with us which are also part of his new book "Aggressively Human" which he co-wrote with his wife Lizzy. He takes us back to his block which led to the record-setting 99-yard touchdown run by Tony Dorsett with the Cowboys and compares blocking for Marcus Allen and Bo Jackson. He recounts what it was like during his time in the jungle of Nicaragua during "Survivor" and the effects that show had on him. Plus, he gives us his Top 5 defensive linemen he faced, and we hear about his rearward facing toilet for which he was awarded a patent recently.…
Steve Largent on Hall of Fame career with Seattle Seahawks and Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund Steve Largent was born in Tulsa, OK before moving to Oklahoma City at a young age. At Putnam City High School, Largent was a running back on the football team before a coach convinced him to move to wide receiver. That change in positions led to a record-setting career at the University of Tulsa and selection in the 1976 NFL draft. Picked in the 4th Round by the Houston Oilers, Largent was about to be cut after four preseason games when the Oilers decided to trade him to the expansion Seattle Seahawks. From 1976-89, Largent broke every major NFL receiving record and was the first Seahawk selected to a Pro Bowl (he was selected 7 times overall). In 1995, Largent became the first Seahawk elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame doing so in his first year eligible. In addition to spending time with his 10 grandchildren, Largent is currently working to help raise money and awareness for the Gridiron Greats Assistance Fund ( https://www.gridirongreats.org/ ) through Pork Rind Appreciation Day (Learn more at https://www.southernrecipesmallbatch.com/pork-rind-appreciation-day ). Largent shares why he was so successful, what adjustments he made catching balls from lefthanded quarterback Jim Zorn to righty Dave Krieg and which teammates he enjoyed playing alongside. He also tells us about the Steve Largent Award, the connection he has with current Seahawk receiver Tyler Lockett and the return of the retro Seahawks jerseys. Largent also recounts the concussion he got on a hit from Broncos DB Mike Harden and the revenge hit he delivered weeks later.…
Christian Okoye on growing up in Nigeria, playing for the Kansas City Chiefs and his Top 5 Big Running Backs Christian Okoye was born in Enugu, Nigeria and grew up playing soccer and running track despite his dad not wanting him to play sports. Okoye excelled in track and field but when the Nigerian government declined to put him on the 1984 Olympic team, he focused on football which he saw for the first time when he moved to United States in his early 20s. Okoye combined speed with his 6'1" and 260-pound frame to become a force in his new sport at Azusa Pacific University in California. Kansas City drafted Okoye in the 2nd Round in 1987 and he embarked on a 6-year career with the Chiefs. Under coach Marty Schottenheimer, Okoye led the NFL in rushing in 1989 and was named First Team All-Pro, AFC MVP and a Pro Bowler that year. Nagging injuries forced Okoye to retire following the 1992 season as Kansas City's all-time leading rusher. In 2000, he was named to the Kansas City Chiefs Hall of Fame. Okoye, known as the "Nigerian Nightmare", shares his incredible story with us including the impact Schottenheimer had on his career, the NFL running backs he studied to learn the game and whether or not he could play in today's NFL. He also gives us his Top 5 (or 6) Big Running Backs. Okoye also tells us about his memoir "The Nigerian Nightmare: My Journey Out of Africa to the Kansas City Chiefs and Beyond" available November 7 published by Triumph Books.…
Alonzo Highsmith on playing football at Miami, his boxing career and his Top 5 players from the “U” Alonzo Highsmith grew up in Florida influenced to play football by his dad, Walter, who played and coached football including a stint at Texas Southern where he coached future Pro Football Hall of Fame inductee Michael Strahan. The younger Highsmith was a defensive end in high school and was the Florida high school Defensive Player of the Year. With offers from Notre Dame and Michigan, Highsmith elected to stay in state and played for the University of Miami. His freshman season, Miami coach Howard Schnellenberger convinced Highsmith to move to fullback, a move that helped lead the Hurricanes to their first national championship in 1983. After Schnellenberger left Miami, Jimmy Johnson took over as head coach and Highsmith continued to flourish. The Houston Oilers made Highsmith the 3rd overall pick in 1987 but knee injuries led to a short professional career. He went from the football field to the boxing ring when he retired and after a successful heavyweight career, Highsmith worked in NFL front offices in Green Bay, Cleveland and Seattle. He returned to his alma mater as the General manager of Football Operations in 2022. In this episode, Highsmith takes us back to the 1980s when the “U” started to take over college football and what it was like playing for both Schnellenberger and Johnson who he later played for with the Dallas Cowboys. He also tells us about being inducted into the University of Miami Sports Hall of Fame and what led to his boxing career. Plus, he gives us his Top 5 Players to Play at the “U”.…
Devon Harris: From the Original Jamaican Bobsled Team to Disney's "Cool Runnings" Devon Harris was born in the ghetto of Olympic Gardens in Kingston, Jamaica. He played soccer and ran track while dreaming of representing his country in the 1984 Olympics. When that didn't happen, Harris attended the prestigious Royal Military Academy Sandhurst in England. While a member of the Jamaica Defense Force, a colonel convinced him to try out for the newly formed Jamaican bobsled team. Making the team in late 1987, he was a member of the four-man team in the 1988 Calgary Winter Olympics. That story became the Disney movie "Cool Runnings" in 1993 starring John Candy. In this episode, Harris talks about the sport he became synonymous with and takes us inside the training for their debut run in Calgary. He also shares how "Cool Runnings" differs from real life and how he's received when he returns to his native country. Harris also tells us about his motivational speaking career, the foundation he started and whether or not he spent time in a freezer to prepare for the Winter Olympics as depicted in "Cool Runnings".…
Joe Maddon On World Series Win with Cubs, Managing Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout Joe Maddon was born in Hazleton, PA and grew up playing baseball along with football and basketball. After playing baseball and one season of football at Lafayette College in Easton, PA, Maddon signed a free agent contract with the California Angels as a catcher. Following four seasons in minor league baseball, he was convinced to go into coaching. He spent over 30 years within the Angels organization which included three stints as interim manager and a World Series championship as a coach in 2002. In 2006, Maddon got his chance to be a full-time manager for the first time with Tampa Bay and led the Rays to the World Series in 2008 earning his first of three Manager of the Year awards. His time with the Rays included over 750 wins but ended after the 2014 season when he decided to join the Chicago Cubs. In 2015, Maddon took the Cubs to their first postseason appearance in seven seasons and in 2016 he led Chicago to a World Series title, their first in 108 years. He returned to the west coast to manage the Angels in 2020 and held that position until the middle of the 2022 season. Maddon is back in his hometown enjoying some downtime and working with the Hazleton Integration Project which he established in 2013. In this episode, we hear about Maddon’s tie to the city of Hazleton and how it helped him become the person he is today. He tells us why his catching career has helped his career as an MLB manager. Maddon also recounts stories of winning the World Series with the Cubs and tells us what it’s like when he returns to Chicago. Plus, he gives us his take on Shohei Ohtani and Mike Trout along with his thoughts on the game now and if he’ll manage again. We also hear about his podcast, “The Book of Joe”, which is based on the recent book he co-wrote with sports journalist Tom Verducci.…
Kenny Albert grew up in New York in a broadcast family with dad Marv Albert and uncles Al and Steve Albert. He did mock broadcasts into his tape recorder at age 5 and was broadcasting games for real by the age of 15. After graduating from New York University, Albert began his career in 1990 and has been on the mic for more than 3000 broadcasts calling games in all four major US sports leagues (NFL, NHL, MLB and NBA). In this episode, Albert shares stories from his new book "A Mic for All Seasons" available October 10 via Triumph Books. He tells us why hockey has always been a favorite sport for him and led to him calling games in the NHL and the Winter Olympics. He recounts some of his 250+ broadcast partners including memories of the late Tony Siragusa. Albert also provides advice for aspiring broadcasters and tells us about some of his favorite moments and athletes he's been fortunate to cover. Plus, he tells us about the coolest perks of his job and how the support of his family has allowed him to excel as a broadcaster.…
John Swofford was born and raised in North Wilkesboro, NC where his dad owned a tire store that catered to NASCAR legends like Junior Johnson. Swofford was an All-State quarterback at Wilkes Central High School and attended the University of North Carolina on a Morehead Scholarship. He was part of coach Bill Dooley’s first recruiting class for the Tar Heels and played both quarterback and safety. After earning his master’s degree at Ohio University, Swofford began his athletic administration career at Virginia before returning to North Carolina where he would take over as Athletic Director in 1980 at the age of 31. After 17 years leading the Tar Heels to more ACC and National Championships than any other AD in ACC history, Swofford joined the league as the 4th commissioner in conference history. He became the longest tenured commissioner in ACC history serving in that role for 24 years before retiring in 2021. In this episode, Swofford tells us what makes a good athletic director and what accomplishments he’s most proud of during his career. He also shares his advice he received from Dean Smith along with some of the coaches who highlighted his time in Chapel Hill and with the ACC. Swofford also remembers the influence of former UNC Athletic Director Homer Rice, reflects on his induction into the North Carolina Sports Hall of Fame in 2009 and gives his take on college athletics. In the Front Row with Mike Vaccaro is your front row seat to one-on-one conversations with sports figures. Each episode we go beyond the bio and hear about the stories that made headlines. Our guests are hall of famers, gold medalists, record holders, trailblazers and more. We cover all sports and all eras to bring you amazing guests with incredible accounts of the moments that made them the athlete and person they are today. Join us as our guests share memories of their best, and worst, moments of their journey in sports and in life.…
Eddie George: Heisman Trophy Winner, Tennessee Titan, And Tennessee State Coach Eddie George was born in Philadelphia and played multiple sports at Abington Senior High School before his mom made him attend Fork Union Military Academy in Virginia. It was at Fork Union where George grew on and off the field. After spending a post-graduate year at Fork Union, college football coaches came calling and a visit to Ohio State convinced George that being a Buckeye was a great fit. During his senior season in 1995, George set school records and won the Heisman Trophy. The Houston Oilers drafted him 14th overall in the 1996 NFL draft and his performance that year earned him NFL Rookie of the Year. In all, George spent 8 years with the Oilers/Tennessee Titans and one year with the Dallas Cowboys. He retired with over 10,000 rushing yards and stands with just Jim Brown as the only running backs with over 10,000 rushing yards without missing a start. After retiring, George earned an MBA from Northwestern and started a business career while also turning to acting which included a role on Broadway in the musical "Chicago". In 2021, George was named head coach at Tennessee State and is set to open his 3rd season at Notre Dame. George tells stories about how giving his Heisman speech compares to singing on stage. He also tells us what it's like to be in several halls of fame, how the discipline of Fork Union still serves him today and what it's like to be in the same company as Jim Brown.…
Brandon Phillips on MLB Career, Winning a World Series and Owning a Pro Softball Team Brandon Phillips was born in Raleigh, NC and grew up in Stone Mountain, GA in an athletic family. He played multiple sports and wanted to focu on football before his mom suggested he concentrate on baseball. That advice led to a 17-year MLB career including 11 with the Cincinnati Reds where he was a 3-time All-Star, 4-time Gold Glove Award winner and a Silver Slugger Award winner. Phillips also spent time with his hometown Atlanta Braves and won a World Series with the Boston Red Sox in 2018. Now semi-retired, Phillips and his partner Jade Cargill (a pro wrestler and fitness model) founded the Texas Smoke in the Women's Professional Fastpitch league. In this episode, Phillips tells us how he nearly attended Georgia to play both baseball and football before being drafted by the Montreal Expos. He also shares about growing up a Barry Larkin fan and his relationship with members of the "Big Red Machine" including the late Joe Morgan. Plus, he tells us why Dusty Baker was a great manager, why he doesn't watch baseball today and how he got his nickname "Dat Dude BP".…
David Glenn on The David Glenn Show, Interviewing Presidents and Philly Sports Fandom David Glenn was raised in Philadelphia during a successful time for Philly sports teams. A fan of Phillies pitcher Steve Carlton, Glenn was also a lefthanded pitcher growing up and played baseball from age 5 years old into his 20s. Realizing that playing sports would not be his profession, Glenn decided on sports journalism. After moving to North Carolina, Glenn started as a print journalist with the Durham Herald Sun and eventually worked and owned the ACC Sports Journal and ACCsports.com. During a time when he also practiced law, Glenn transitioned to radio and hosted the long running The David Glenn Show which was heard across the Tar Heel state. Now back with a new version of the show airing on the North Carolina Sports Network, Glenn tells us about his multifaceted life and how he's balanced it all. He also recounts memorable interviews with two US Presidents and a few notable authors and actors. Plus, we hear his plans for his new venture and why he thinks the time is right to bring The David Glenn Show back after a 3-year absence.…
Kerri Walsh Jennings on WINNING Olympic Gold and being a Hall of Famer, a role model and a MOM Kerri Walsh Jennings grew up in California in an active family. As a somewhat shy kid, she used sports as her outlet playing both basketball and volleyball. As the #1 volleyball recruit her senior year, Walsh Jennings chose nearby Stanford where she helped lead the Cardinal to 2 NCAA Titles (1996 and 1997). Her first Olympic experience came in the Sydney games as a member of the Indoor Volleyball team in 2000. She soon switched to Beach Volleyball and partnered with Misty May-Treanor in 2001 to form a pairing that would win Olympic gold in Athens in 2004, Beijing in 2008 and London in 2012 (where she was 5 weeks pregnant with her third child). Walsh Jennings also won a Bronze medal in Rio in 2016 making her the most-decorated beach athlete. She shares her journey with us including her accomplishments and challenges during her rise to the top of her sport. We hear how the partnership with Misty May-Treanor came to be and how the two balanced competition and fame. Walsh Jennings also tells us what her 2022 induction into the International Volleyball Hall of Fame means to her and why she enjoys the role of simply being mom to her three kids with fellow beach volleyball player Casey Jennings. Plus, she tells us her plans for Paris 2024 and her new venture centered on sports and wellness.…
Mike Candrea on winning NCAA Softball Championships, Olympic Gold and growing the game of Softball Mike Candrea was born in New Orleans and loved playing pick-up baseball with his friends. After moving to Phoenix at age 7, Candrea’s passion for the sport continued to grow. He played second base at Central Arizona College and became an assistant coach at the school before being asked to take over the softball program. After leading Central Arizona College to several championships, Candrea was hired as softball head coach at Arizona in 1986 and he stayed until he retired in 2021. During that time, he built the Wildcats softball program from the ground up and led them to 8 National Championships starting with their first title in 1991. In all, Candrea became the game’s winningest coach with 1674 wins (currently second to Carol Hutchins), is in six different Halls of Fame and has his name on the Arizona stadium he helped build. Candrea also coached the US Olympic softball team twice, winning gold in 2004 in Athens and silver in 2008 in Beijing. The 2004 team was so dominant that it outscored their opponents 51-1 giving up the lone run to Australia in the gold medal game. Now retired and serving as a special assistant to the Athletic Director at Arizona, Candrea is still working to grow the game he loves while also pursuing his passion for golf. Candrea shares the lessons he’s learning during his career and the players who influenced him including All-American pitcher Jennie Finch. He also tells us the impact of Title IX, what makes the female athlete so special and the great perspective he has on life.…
Karl Mecklenburg was born in Seattle but grew up in Minnesota where he started playing football when he was 9 years old. He wanted to attend the University of Minnesota, but at 6-foot and just 200 pounds he had to settle for Augustana College in Sioux Falls, SD. After having his scholarship removed at Augustana, Mecklenburg walked on at Minnesota and in 1982 he was the Gophers' top defensive player, All-Big Ten 2nd team and All-Academic. The Denver Broncos drafted Karl in the 12th round (310 overall) in the 1983 NFL draft. Playing for Dan Reeves, Mecklenburg flourished playing on the defensive line and at linebacker. He helped lead the Broncos to three Super Bowls (XXI, XXII and XXIV) and played his entire 12-year career in Denver. He battled multiple injuries including more than 10 concussions during his career and later was a plaintiff in a lawsuit vs. the NFL. A long-time motivational speaker, Mecklenburg shares tales from his journey including his breakthrough moment as a linebacker and what it was like playing on a team with John Elway as the quarterback (he tells us his view of "The Drive" in the 1986 AFC Championship game). He also tells us about the quarterback he loved to sack the most, the teammate who pushed him in practice and the honor of being inducted in the Denver Broncos Ring of Fame in 2001. Mecklenburg tells us why his versatility might be what's keeping him out of the Pro Football Hall of Fame, why he enjoys giving back to the Denver community and how he got his nickname "The Albino Rhino".…
Ron Cey was born and raised in Tacoma, WA where he played multiple sports up until graduating high school and attended Washington State to play baseball. After playing for the WSU freshman team, Cey played for Coach Chuck Brayton and the varsity team where he became the Cougar's top hitter and also earned his nickname "The Penguin". In 1968, the Dodgers drafted Cey in the 3rd round and he spent three years in the minors before making his MLB debut in 1971. He became a full-time Dodger in 1973 and teamed with Steve Garvey (1B), Davey Lopes (2B) and Bill Russell (SS) to form the Los Angeles infield for the next 8½ years. During that time, Cey was a 6-time All-Star and helped the Dodgers navigate a strike in the middle of the 1981 season to win the World Series against the New York Yankees. Playing for legendary manager Tommy Lasorda, Cey he was named co-MVP of the Series along with Steve Yeager and Pedro Guerrero. That title signaled the end of an era as the Dodger infield eventually broke up with Cey getting traded to the Chicago Cubs after the 1982 season. After 4 years with the Cubs and one more with the Oakland A's, Cey retired in 1987. He worked for the Dodgers after his retirement and currently hosts a podcast ("We'll See About That") and recently wrote his memoir (Penguin Power - Dodger Blue, Hollywood Lights, and My One-In-A-Million Big League Journey). In this episode, Cey shares his journey and tells us who was "his guy" growing up. He also takes us through the 1981 Fall Classic and recounts getting hit in the head by a Goose Gossage pitch in Game 5. Cey also tells us why third basemen have been an under-represented position in the Baseball Hall of Fame and why his numbers might warrant induction into the Hall.…
Jeremy Roenick was born in Boston and moved around as a youth. He played hockey for the first time at age 4 and fell in love with the game. When he was 7 years old, Roenick had a memorable encounter with hockey legend Gordie Howe, something that would shape how he treated fans during his career. As a 10-year-old, he and his friends idolized Mike Eruzione and the US Olympic team that won gold in Lake Placid, NY (Ep. 49 featured Mike Eruzione: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=s6Wmnarax8g&t=1068s). Roenick moved back to Massachusetts and played hockey at Thayer Academy before the Chicago Blackhawks drafted him in 1988 making his debut in October and his playoff debut that season as well. He became a full-time member of the Blackhawks in the 1989-90 season and remained in Chicago until he was traded to Phoenix in 1996. Roenick played 20 seasons in the NHL including stops in Philadelphia, Los Angeles and San Jose along with a second stint in Phoenix playing for coach Wayne Gretzky. He retired in 2009 as one of the best American-born players to ever play in the NHL (513 goals, 703 assists and 9 All Star appearances) but it still not inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame. Roenick shares his journey with us and tells us about his first All-Star game during the 1990-91 season, the teammates he enjoyed playing with the most and the moment he gained the respect of his teammates as a rookie. Plus, he recounts what it was like being in Chicago during the Bulls NBA titles led by Michael Jordan (and gives us his take on recent comments by former Bull Scottie Pippen regarding Jordan). We also hear about Roenick’s post-playing endeavors including his broadcasting and acting career along with his company Whisky in the Wild. He even gives us his take on the 2023 Stanley Cup Finals featuring the Las Vegas Knights and the Florida Panthers.…
Clyde Simmons was born in Lane, SC. His family moved to Wilmington, NC when he was young and sports highlighted his childhood. Playing multiple sports at New Hanover High School (alongside Ep. 55 guest Kenny Gattison), Simmons found his calling in football. Encouraged by Wildcats head coach Joe Miller, Simmons attended Western Carolina in the North Carolina mountains. During his four years, he helped lead the Catamounts to the 1983 NCAA I-AA National Championship game and was First Team All-America in 1985 He was inducted into the WCU Athletics Hall of Fame in 2002. Scouts noticed his play and in 1986 the Philadelphia Eagles drafted him in the 9th round. He played for head coach Buddy Ryan and alongside Reggie White and Jerome Brown to anchor the NFL's top defense in 1991. He led the NFL in sacks in 1992 and was twice named to the Pro Bowl during his 8 years in Philly. Simmons played 7 more years in the NFL with stints in Arizona, Jacksonville, Cincinnati and Chicago. He finished his 15-year career with 121.5 sacks which is 22nd all-time. After working outside of football, Simmons made his way back to the sport as a coach both in the NFL and on the college level where he currently coaches defensive linemen at Tennessee State under head coach Eddie Georgie. Simmons also talks about concussions and what playing in the 1980s and 1990s NFL was like. He shares what he learned from coaches like Miller, Ryan and Tom Coughlin who coached him in Jacksonville. Plus, he tells us why it was important to return to WCU to graduate in 1996 and what makes his 2008 induction into the Great Wilmington Sports Hall of Fame so special. We also hear about his "welcome to the NFL' moment, which team he considered his biggest NFL rival and which quarterback he enjoyed sacking the most.…
مرحبًا بك في مشغل أف ام!
يقوم برنامج مشغل أف أم بمسح الويب للحصول على بودكاست عالية الجودة لتستمتع بها الآن. إنه أفضل تطبيق بودكاست ويعمل على أجهزة اندرويد والأيفون والويب. قم بالتسجيل لمزامنة الاشتراكات عبر الأجهزة.