Best Collegiate Empowerment Podcasts (2024)

1
The Journey to the Transfer Portal With Ryder MacGillivray 27:43

3d ago27:43

27:43

Summary Ryder MacGillivray, a former football player at Utah State University, shares his journey and decision to enter the transfer portal. He talks about his experiences on the team, including being awarded a scholarship and battling for a starting position. Ryder discusses the tough conversations he had with coaches and the emotional process of …

1
These New Rules Will Be The Death of the NFL 34:27

4d ago34:27

34:27

This week Russell Davis and Anwar Newton talk about the new NFL rule changes like the hip drop tackle ban and the new kickoff rule. Is the game being changed for the better or worse? Does the NFL show the same amount of care for defensive players that they show for offensive players? The Route with Russell podcast is hosted by Super Bowl champion a…

1
From Small Town to Big League: How Michael Bankston Made it to the NFL 32:37

11d ago32:37

32:37

This week we’re joined by Arizona Cardinal alumnus Michael Bankston to talk about his career journey from a small town in Texas to the big league. Michael played 9 seasons in the NFL starting as a defensive tackle with the Cardinals and finishing his career with the Cincinnati Bengals (Who Dey!) He and Russ have a great talk about growing up with t…

1
When Opportunity Knocks: Learning and Growing from the Sideline 25:18

12d ago25:18

25:18

Summary In this episode, Naki discusses the importance of sideline etiquette for players who are not on the field. He emphasizes the impact of body language, understanding momentum, gaining an edge, servant leadership, being engaged in the game, and being ready for opportunities. Naki shares personal experiences and provides practical advice for pl…

1
Head Coach Kevin Brooks | Angelo State University 14:16

17d ago14:16

14:16

Kevin Brooks has guided the Angelo State baseball program to six NCAA Division II College World Series appearances with six South Central Championships and has compiled an impressive 742-333 overall record since starting the ASU program in 2005. In 2023, the Rams claimed the Division II National Championship for the first time in program history. T…

1
Growing Up With a Military Mom 41:47

18d ago41:47

41:47

This week Russell talks about his mother and her impact on how he is the father that he is today. Russ looks back at his upbringing under a strict mom, navigating social media with his football star son, Deuce Davis (Washington Huskies), and remembers a house party that nearly got him in the worst trouble of his life! The Route with Russell podcast…

1
Recruit Grind Combine FAQ's 27:41

19d ago27:41

27:41

Summary In this conversation, Naki addresses frequently asked questions about a combine event. He discusses the importance of underclassmen attending the combine to showcase their potential and progression. He emphasizes that every position, including linemen, is important and should participate in the combine. Naki also explains that while combine…

1
Lee Lipinski - Asst Coach | Rider University 20:50

22d ago20:50

20:50

Lee Lipinski enters his sixth season as an assistant coach for the Broncos. This is Lipinski’s 11th consecutive year as a member of the Broncs Baseball Program, playing five years and captaining two teams. Lipinski was a part of two regular season championships (2013 & 2015) and played in three MAAC tournaments during his tenure as a player. Lipins…

1
Steve Murry - Head Coach | Neosho Community College 30:36

23d ago30:36

30:36

Steve Murry assumed the Head Coaching job at Neosho County in June of 1986. He succeeded Carl Robb and became only the second coach in Neosho Baseball history. During his 37 year stint, the Panthers have won 1176 games,Jayhawk Conference Championships in 1994, 2003, 2006 and 2016 and Jayhawk Conference Eastern Division Sub-Regional Championships in…

1
Inside the Huddle with Dominic Hanger: A Redshirt Freshman's Journey 27:03

25d ago27:03

27:03

This week we chat with Arizona Wildcat linebacker Dominic Hanger. With 156 total tackles, 5.0 sacks, and numerous hurries during his high school career, Dominic brings a wealth of talent to the Wildcats team We talk about the pressures of college, how to navigate being a redshirt freshman, and his goals to make an impact in life and on the field Th…

1
Kadyn Proctor Made How Much before Transferring!? 10:40

26d ago10:40

10:40

Summary This episode discusses the controversial case of Kaden Proctor, a college football player who made headlines for his NIL transactions. The conversation explores Proctor's background, recruitment, and success at Alabama, as well as his subsequent transfer to Iowa. The focus then shifts to the crowdfunding controversy surrounding Proctor and …

1
Getting Cut From The Chicago Bears 47:26

1M ago47:26

47:26

Russell Davis talks about his rookie year with the Chicago Bears and the impact it had on him mentally for the rest of his career The Route with Russell podcast is hosted by Super Bowl champion and retired NFL player Russell Davis Sr. This is a space where the community can come together for meaningful discussions. Whether you’re a young athlete de…

1
A Reintroduction to Your Host 19:06

1M ago19:06

19:06

Summary In this episode, Funaki Asisi introduces himself and shares the story of how he started his podcast. He also mentions the influential people who inspired him to start the podcast, including Gary Vaynerchuk and Shay Haddow. Funaki talks about his background in football and his college experience. He then discusses his journey working in coll…

1
Russell hosts Carlos Brooks & Paul Richardson Sr., sharing raw sports parenting truths. From loyalty to money, they uncover the real game. 59:54

1M ago59:54

59:54

This week, Russell's got some real talk lined up with Carlos Brooks, yep, the former NFL Defensive Back, and Paul Richardson Sr., the coach and host of The Kave Show. They're all in the same boat as sports dads, sharing their stories about raising kids in the game. You've heard the chatter about money and loyalty, right? But let's get real here. Mo…

1
New Signing Day!? 11:16

1M ago11:16

11:16

Summary The conversation discusses the changing landscape of college athletics, specifically focusing on the signing periods for high school recruits. It explores the recent decision to move the December signing period and the proposal to introduce a new signing period in June. The conversation highlights the pros and cons of these changes and refl…

1
From High School Champion To No Name Freshman | Tatum Thomas 45:09

2M ago45:09

45:09

This week, Russell Davis is joined by college volleyball player, Tatum Thomas, to talk transferring from GCU to Texas A&M during the pandemic, adjusting from high school champion to unproven freshman, and how she managed workloads while making a name for herself again in the sports world. The Route with Russell podcast is hosted by Super Bowl champ…

1
Everything You Need to Know About Camps and Which Ones You Need to Go To 36:58

2M ago36:58

36:58

Summary The conversation covers the different types of camps, including institutional camps and non-institutional camps. Institutional camps are run by college football programs and are usually held on campus or at satellite locations. Non-institutional camps include elite camps, showcases, combines, and private camps. Attending institutional camps…

1
How The NFL Combine Has Completely Changed 48:38

2M ago48:38

48:38

This week we talk about the NFL Combine and how it has gone from being an unknown part of the NFL to a televised event. Russell shares what he went through in the Combine in the 90’s and what players face now with all the new money today’s NFL brings in. The Route with Russell podcast is hosted by Super Bowl champion and retired NFL player Russell …

1
The GRINDHOUSE: Coach Kurt Taufa'asau talks NMMI Football & More 1:06:51

2M ago1:06:51

1:06:51

Summary Kurt Taufa'asau shares his journey from playing football at New Mexico Military Institute and the University of Wyoming to getting a shot in the NFL and transitioning to coaching. He highlights the importance of relationships and networking in the football industry and the challenges of making it to the professional level. Kurt's story is a…

1
Staying Mentally Resilient For Football: Frank Sanders On His Years As An NFL Wide Receiver 39:44

2M ago39:44

39:44

This week we’re joined by former Arizona Cardinal wide receiver, Frank Sanders. Frank and Russell discuss the decisions made when considering colleges for their own student athletes, NIL changes, and thier shared history growing up as young football players. Sanders reflects on the challenges and triumphs of his football career, emphasizing the imp…

1
NIL & Recruitment Reinvented: Discussing GMs in College Sports 1:14:43

2M ago1:14:43

1:14:43

Summary The conversation explores the idea of having a general manager (GM) in college football to handle NIL negotiations and recruitment. The challenges of advancing in coaching and the responsibilities that come with higher positions are discussed. The need for a GM to handle NIL deals is highlighted, along with the challenges of fulfilling thes…

1
Are you in the Book Podcast | Chad Miller - iD Evolution 21:19

2M ago21:19

21:19

Coach Miller’s goal is to help players learn more about themselves, train to their strengths, reduce their weaknesses, increase their opportunities, and diminish risks to take their game to the next level utilizing science and technology. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/baseballbluebook/support…

1
MLB’s First Latin Born Crew Chief Alfonso Marquez On The Pressure Of Being An Umpire 42:01

2M ago42:01

42:01

This week we’re joined by current MLB umpire Alfonso Marquez to share his journey officiating baseball. Marquez has been an integral part of MLB field crews for over 24 seasons having worked in the [National League](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_League_(baseball)) in 1999 and has worked throughout both major leagues since 2000. He was prom…

1
Mastering the Mental Game with Riley Jensen: Strategies for Athletes 1:16:42

2M ago1:16:42

1:16:42

Summary Riley Jensen, a mental performance coach and former football player, discusses the importance of resilience, positive self-talk, and focusing on strengths in the recruiting process and in life. He emphasizes the value of football in building confidence, character, and the ability to handle pressure. Jensen also highlights the need for indiv…

1
Bertrand Berry On Overcoming Adversity Through Life And Football 40:43

2M ago40:43

40:43

This week we’re joined by retired NFL defensive end, Bertand Berry, as we discuss the mental health aspect of being a young athlete. Berry, who spent time with the Denver Broncos and Arizona Cardinals appearing in the 2005 Pro Bowl, reveals his coping mechanisms for self acceptance, how becoming a father has offered him a fresh perspective on his o…

1
Junior College Football with Trever McFalls at Snow College 1:34:45

2M ago1:34:45

1:34:45

Summary Coach Trever McFalls shares his journey from high school to college football, including his recruiting experience and decision to attend Southern Utah University. He discusses the challenges of starting the recruiting process late and the importance of sending out film early. Coach McFalls also talks about his transition from playing to coa…

1
Russell Davis On Super Bowl 42, The Infamous Helmet Catch, and Being A Part Of NFL History 42:36

3M ago42:36

42:36

This week Super Bowl champion Russell Davis discusses the highs and lows on the road to winning the Vince Lombardi trophy. Russell reflects on being a part of the infamous postseason run of the 2007-08 New York Giants leading up to their championship victory against the undefeated New England Patriots. Many call it the greatest upset in Super Bowl …

1
Decoding All the 'Shirts' in College Sports 20:08

3M ago20:08

20:08

Summary In this episode, Naki discusses the positive side of gray-shirting and the benefits it can offer in terms of development and preparation. He then explains the concept of red-shirting and the eligibility clock, highlighting the reasons for red-shirting and its advantages. Naki also clarifies the terminology used for different stages of redsh…

1
Kerwin Daniels: MLB’s First Black Crew Chief On Breaking Barriers 39:32

3M ago39:32

39:32

This week Russell is joined by Kerwin Daniels, retired MLB umpire, as he shares his remarkable journey in Major League Baseball and the significance of breaking barriers. From his experiences as a player to becoming the first black crew chief, Kerwin spills on the impact of diversity in the sport and how he helped pave the way for future generation…

1
Advice For Walk-ons 17:59

3M ago17:59

17:59

Summary This conversation discusses the experience of being a walk-on player in college football and provides advice for those considering this path. The conversation covers topics such as the recruitment process, the meaning of preferred walk-ons, changes in treatment for walk-ons, perks and support for walk-ons, earning a scholarship as a walk-on…

1
Head Coach Anthony Pla' - Lincoln University 38:59

3M ago38:59

38:59

Anthony Plá enters his 12th season as Head Baseball Coach at Lincoln University. In May of 2015, Coach Plá is also the Assistant Athletic Director of Facilities moving the Lions to new heights as a program. Plá is looking to further the progression of the already-growing baseball program as they look to improve on each year’s success. The transitio…

1
Carlos Brooks: From NFL to Youth Coaching - Insights on Football Evolution & Parenting in Sports 40:43

3M ago40:43

40:43

Join us as Carlos Brooks, former NFL player and youth coach, shares his journey from professional football to coaching young athletes. Discover insights on the evolution of football, the importance of instilling passion in kids, and the balance between sports and academics. This candid conversation sheds light on the mental toughness required in sp…

1
Transfer Portal? or Is The Grass Greener Where You Water It? 28:14

3M ago28:14

28:14

Summary In this episode, Naki discusses the transfer portal and provides insights and advice for college athletes considering making a jump. He emphasizes the importance of playing time and having game film to showcase skills to potential coaches. Naki also highlights the significance of self-awareness, academic progress, and mental health in makin…

1
Eric Guliford On Playing With Tony Dungy and Christ Carter, Shares Insights on Managing Expectations 40:04

3M ago40:04

40:04

This week we’re joined by former wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers, Eric Guliford! Eric Guliford played 5 seasons in the NFL for not just the Panthers, but also for the Minnesota Vikings and the New Orleans Saints. He joins Russell to reflect on his time in the NFL with Tony Dungy and Chris Carter, and to discuss coaching his son as he begins…

1
So You Want to Be An Athlete? - A Brandin Bryant Story 1:28:59

3M ago1:28:59

1:28:59

Summary The conversation covers the journey of a football player from Omaha, Nebraska, who overcame challenges and setbacks to pursue his dream of playing in the NFL. The chapters explore topics such as the football scene in Omaha, the importance of self-belief, the decision to attend a junior college, the transfer to FAU, highlights of the college…

1
Parenting High-Performing Children: Athlete or Artist, Nurturing Excellence 44:43

4M ago44:43

44:43

This week’s episode of The Route takes a look at the world of competitive song and dance and the parallels it draws to sports. Robert and Amber Everson, parents of young aspiring singer Rayla, join Russell to talk about the MTCA, The Musical Theatre Competitions of America, an experience devoted not only to performing arts competitions and festival…

1
NIL Deals and Taxes: What Every Student Athlete Must Know 47:09

4M ago47:09

47:09

Summary In this conversation, Funaki Asisi interviews his mother, June Asisi, who is a tax consultant. They discuss the importance of taxes for student athletes, particularly in the context of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. June explains that any income over $600 is taxable and advises student athletes to request a 1099 form from businesses…

1
Breaking the Stigma: Supporting Young Athletes’ Mental Health with Spencer Waggoner 37:58

4M ago37:58

37:58

In this week’s episode of The Route, join us as we talk about supporting young athletes' mental health and the importance of open communication. Learn from our guest, Spencer Waggoner, about strategies for parents and coaches to help kids cope with pressures. Spencer Waggoner is a former football player turned coach with over 15 years of experience…

1
10 Ways to Build Your Brand and How to Make Money on It 27:10

4M ago27:10

27:10

Summary In this conversation, Naki introduces a new intro song and video for the recruit grind. He then discusses the history and development of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) and the challenges faced by athletes in making money from NIL. He explains the role of platforms, agents, and collectives in helping athletes make money. Naki predicts that …

1
Are you in the Book Podcast | Joseph Guzman - Empowerment Sports Group 52:42

4M ago52:42

52:42

Joseph Guzman graduated from Florida Memorial University with a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and Minor in Aviation. He graduated with Cum Laude Honors and part of the National Honor Math Society Mu Alpha Theta. He has over 6 years’ experience as adviser, mentor, and talent recruiter. His coaching positions include work with the Kans…

1
Are you in the Book Podcast | Head Coach Austin Szemacs - Bryant & Stratton, Solon 30:48

4M ago30:48

30:48

At just 27 years old, Austin Szemacs crossed one major item off his bucket list. The Streetsboro graduate was recently named baseball coach at Bryant & Stratton College in Solon. Szemacs is quick to dole out credit for his quick rise, including to longtime Rockets baseball coach Chris Scisciani, who he said helped inspire him to become a coach. Sze…

1
The Recruit Grind's Top 10 Episodes of 2023 37:21

4M ago37:21

37:21

🎊 As 2023 draws to a close, join us in a special celebration episode on 'The Recruit Grind' where we highlight our Top 10 Episodes of the year. This episode isn't just a trip down memory lane; it's a tribute to the incredible stories, insights, and invaluable advice shared by our distinguished guests. 🙌 A huge thank you to every listener, guest, an…

1
Home for the Holidays: Bowl Games and Family 15:46

4M ago15:46

15:46

In this special Christmas episode of The Route with Russell, Russell shares a personal and heartwarming reflection on the challenges and joys of being away from home during the holiday season, specifically for young athletes participating in bowl games. As the excitement of bowl game experiences unfolds, the inevitable longing for family and the si…

1
Are you in the Book Podcast | Coach Jared Bennett - Randall University 47:13

4M ago47:13

47:13

Head Coach Bennett has been leading the RU Baseball team for 2 years. After a difficult regular season, RU finished 3-2 in regionals and are looking to build on the success in 2024. Randall University is a School in Moore, OK, that competes in the NCCAA. Please get to know Coach Bennett and his program. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.…

1
College Football Evolution: Insights with Youth Coach & Sports Radio Host, Paul Richardson 38:31

4M ago38:31

38:31

This week, Russell sits down with Paul Richardson Sr., a youth coach, host of The Kave Show, and fellow sports dad. Join them as they offer a distinct perspective from both the father and coach/player angles. Uncover the transformation of college football with a focus on the transfer portal and NIL's influence on student-athletes. Prepare for an in…

1
DJ Nelson's Playbook for High School Football Success 1:05:23

4M ago1:05:23

1:05:23

This conversation explores the art of constructing a game plan and the importance of understanding the game of football. It delves into the legacy of Logan High School football and the coaching philosophy of Coach Favero. The impact of Coach Favero's game strategy is discussed, as well as the success of Logan High School football. The conversation …

1
Are you in the Book Podcast | Baseball Dad - Mark Lonergan 37:00

4M ago37:00

37:00

In this episode, we delve into the inspiring story of Mark and his son Cole, who, with the guidance of Walter Beede, embarked on a remarkable journey through the baseball recruiting process. Join us as we explore the challenges, victories, and the impact on their entire family. Discover the dedication and hard work that led Cole to become the best …

1
Are you in the Book Podcast | Baseball Mom - Alysa Schildcrout 41:01

4M ago41:01

41:01

A baseball mom's perspective of the recruiting process and working with Walter Beede. --- Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/baseballbluebook/support

1
Navigating College Football Recruitment: A Parent’s Guide to Success 14:05

5M ago14:05

14:05

In this week’s episode of The Route, Russell gives an honest discussion on college football recruitment, including navigating rankings, choosing the right college, and preparing for a successful football career. You’re going to get a real perspective not only from a former NFL player who went through the recruitment process back in the day but also…

1
"A Life-Changing Kick" - Grady Gross Discusses Recruitment and His Pivotal Game-Winning Moment 35:03

5M ago35:03

35:03

Grady Gross, the kicker for the University of Washington, discusses his journey from high school to college football, including his recruitment process and the challenges he faced. He shares how he transitioned from soccer to football and the transferable skills he gained. Grady also talks about his game-winning field goal in the Apple Cup and the …

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