Embracing the Spirit of Fall: From Halloween Thrills to Thanksgiving Warmth

Growing up in Western Pennsylvania, the Friday night lights were more than just a game—they were a rite of passage that sculpted the sinews of our character. That's the backdrop of my heartfelt conversation with college buddy Matt Landowski, as we relive the glory days of high school sports. We tackle the nostalgia head-on, discussing how the camaraderie on the field led to lifelong bonds and left an indelible mark on our personal growth. From backyard scraps to the echoes of cheering crowds, join us as we revisit the moments that turned us from wide-eyed teens into men forged by the thrill of competition.

College was a whole new ballgame, and you'll hear about the detours life threw at us, like the shoulder injury that sent me to Bethany College instead of swimming for WVU. Matt and I recount the mentors who guided us through these pivotal years, giving kudos to Mrs. Samson, Gerald Schultz, and Heather Taylor for their academic support. And let's not overlook the grueling, mud-splattered memories under coaches Weaver, Garvey, and Upton—lessons from the gridiron that never really fade. It's a trip down memory lane that will resonate with anyone who's felt the rush of the game or the guidance of a coach's wisdom.

Fast forward to today, and you'll find Matt has channeled his sportsman's spirit into an entrepreneurial leap with Sweet Hands, his sports company that’s making waves in the baseball world. We dissect the journey from concept to reality, from stitching together the perfect batting gloves to navigating the pitfalls of business amid a global pandemic. As we wrap things up, Matt shares how SweetHandsSports.com is not just a brand, but a testament to the drive that was reignited on the diamond. For all you sports enthusiasts and dreamers, this catch-up session is a testament to the power of our roots and the communities that support us.

Sweet Hands Gloves: 
https://www.sweethands.com

Stupid Should Hurt 
Link to my Merch store the Stupid Should Hurt Line!

Reaper Apparel
Reaper Apparel Co was built for those who refuse to die slowly! Reaper isn't just clothing it’s a lifestyle!

Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support

Stepping off the well-trodden path, Austin Dudley joins me to unpack a story woven with dedication and a deep-seated love for Division III college athletics. His leap from the comfort zones of St. Louis to the challenges of Webster University's cross-country terrain exemplifies a tale not just of sports, but of personal evolution. Choosing passion over pragmatism, Austin's shift from environmental sciences to education mirrors the very adaptability and resolve intrinsic to the student-athlete spirit.

Navigating the post-graduation maze often leaves many of us pondering our next move; my own journey from scraping by to carving a niche in the registrar's office, with a side of freelance coaching, is a testament to this universal quest. Austin and I dissect our allegiances to rival sports teams, the cultural clash of rooting for the underdog in a city of champions, and how humor—like the unexpected delight of stand-up comedy—can be a saving grace amidst the pressures of early career life.

As we close, the conversation ascends from the literal heights of rock climbing to the metaphorical peaks of honeymoon marathons in the Pacific Northwest. We recount hydration follies, race day surprises, and the communal push beyond comfort zones that every athlete faces. My parting thoughts offer a curated list of podcasts that entertain and inspire, from true crime to running humor. We sign off with a heartfelt reminder to spread positivity and invite listeners to carry these good vibes forward, eagerly anticipating the next round of stories to share.

Stupid Should Hurt 
Link to my Merch store the Stupid Should Hurt Line!

Reaper Apparel
Reaper Apparel Co was built for those who refuse to die slowly! Reaper isn't just clothing it’s a lifestyle!

Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support

Join us on a nostalgic trip down memory lane with Mike Larkin, as we traverse his early years in New Jersey to his defiant track career at The College of New Jersey, and beyond. Mike's leap from his home state to Notre Dame College, peppered with tales of regional food shocks and the bold choices that shaped his future, paints a vivid picture of perseverance and the vital role athletics play in personal growth. Feel the Garden State charm as we recall the close-knit bonds formed through team sports, and the life-altering impacts of those unorthodox decisions that set us on unexpected paths.

Have you ever wondered about the gritty, unseen side of college athletics? Mike and I share the raw truths of the sweat and resilience it takes to compete at the collegiate level. From the thrilling rush of game-day to the trials of training with injuries, our discussion reveals the mental and physical battles athletes endure. The conversation doesn't shy away from the importance of knowing yourself, balancing the push to excel with the wisdom of listening to your body, and the lessons learned through pain and pressure.

In this heart-to-heart episode, we also give a nod to the inspiring figures in sports, while we open up about our coaching journeys across various disciplines. We unravel the symbiotic relationship between football and track, uncovering how cross-training can be a game-changer for athletes. Our "Fast Fiddy Five" segment brings a fun twist, answering rapid-fire questions that unveil more about the off-track preferences and musings. So, whether you're a sports aficionado or just love a good story of triumph and camaraderie, this episode has something for you.

Stupid Should Hurt 
Link to my Merch store the Stupid Should Hurt Line!

Reaper Apparel
Reaper Apparel Co was built for those who refuse to die slowly! Reaper isn't just clothing it’s a lifestyle!

Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support

From the frosty ballparks of Pickering, Canada, to the coaching box at Notre Dame College, Kyle Espineli's baseball journey embodies the grit and growth of the sport beyond America's borders. In our heartwarming chat, Kyle, the assistant baseball coach, unpacks the cultural exchange of bats and balls between Canada and the U.S. He lays bare the realities Canadian athletes face, where hockey skates often overshadow baseball gloves, and how events like Tournament 12 are shaking up the status quo. As he reflects on his own path, paved by the travel ball circuit, we're reminded that the diamond often finds its sparkle in the most unexpected of places.

As the conversation turns to the dugout, it's clear that the leap from player to coach isn't just a change in title—it's a transformation of spirit. Kyle's initiation into coaching, much like my own detour into a broadcast booth following an injury, is a testament to the profound ways sports can redirect our lives. Together, we explore the nuances of building a collegiate program under Ohio's capricious skies, eagerly awaiting an Orlando tournament that promises to test the mettle and heart of the team. It's a tale that underscores the beauty of mentorship, and how the seeds of passion for the game can sprout a legacy on the field.

Our episode concludes with a tip of the cap to Kyle for his candid narratives and invaluable perceptions on the Canadian baseball landscape and the coaching life. Listeners, you're in for an episode that throws a perfect game—full of stories about resilience, strategy, and the unstoppable underdog drive. It's an episode that not only celebrates the grand slam moments but also cherishes the camaraderie and life lessons that are the true home runs of sports. Share it around; there's something in here for every fan of life's unpredictable game.

Stupid Should Hurt 
Link to my Merch store the Stupid Should Hurt Line!

Reaper Apparel
Reaper Apparel Co was built for those who refuse to die slowly! Reaper isn't just clothing it’s a lifestyle!

Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support

Get ready for a Super Bowl roundup like no other, where  Fiddy and I team up with football's finest minds to unpack the Chiefs versus 49ers mega-clash. From the strategic nous of former student assistants to the seasoned wisdom of high school coaches, media pundits, and football family royalty, this episode is a full-field press of insight. Special guests Chris Marsco, Tony Bogan, Mister Askew, Bob Gavalier, Jordan DeMarco, Bill Stoy, Joe Cowart, and Nick Tomba  join us to share stories, dissect plays, and fire off predictions that will sculpt your view of the game and stoke the flames of fandom before the ultimate showdown.

Let's huddle up and dissect Andy Reid's coaching legacy, where we put his NFL achievements under the microscope and debate whether another Super Bowl ring could hoist him into the coaching stratosphere. Quarterback connoisseurs, you're in for a treat as we compare Mahomes to the titans of the turf, weighing his jaw-dropping feats against the greats. And for those scratching their heads over the 49ers' secret weapon, we spotlight linebacker Fred Warner and debate his potential to disrupt Kansas City's rhythm.

Tune in as we laugh and learn with Fiddy posing the unexpected questions that lead to the most unforgettable moments. Our gratitude is immense for the insights from all our guests. Share this epic pregame party with your fellow gridiron enthusiasts, and let the offbeat debates—like whether 50 Emperor penguins could outflank 200 squirrels—keep you chuckling. Remember, next week we'll be back with another episode, ready to tackle more stories and stats that will keep you riveted to your seat.

Stupid Should Hurt 
Link to my Merch store the Stupid Should Hurt Line!

Reaper Apparel
Reaper Apparel Co was built for those who refuse to die slowly! Reaper isn't just clothing it’s a lifestyle!

Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support

When the whistle blows and the stadium lights ignite, that's when Coach Tim Weaver shines brightest – and I had the pleasure of sitting down with this mastermind behind Brown University's defensive maneuvers. Our conversation is more than just X's and O's; it's a deep dive into the heart of collegiate football, from the strategic recruitment plays to the personal growth of players who have sprinted their way from Ivy League fields to NFL glory. We reminisce on Bethany College days, where Weaver's coaching narrative began, and explore the tough yet rewarding journey of steering a program back to success.

Roll up your sleeves for a behind-the-scenes look at what it means to wear multiple hats in Division III athletics, as Weaver gives us the playbook on balancing the dual roles of coach and athletic director. There's richness in the tales of unsung heroes like Johnny "Fiddy" Falconi, whose unyielding spirit represents the diversity of contributions that make a team whole. It's not about the scoreboard but the character built and the lives shaped by the game – a sentiment that shines through in every anecdote and reflection.

Finally, prepare to be entertained – because it's not all serious strategy and life lessons. We're tackling the age-old debates of sports fans everywhere, from which championship is tougher to win to the hypothetical showdown between kangaroos and a polar bear. And as we close out the episode, I'm placing my bets on the burgeoning talent within Ivy League football and the thrills of FCS play. Coach Weaver's stories and insights are an open invitation to join us in celebrating the lesser-known corners of the football world, where passion and determination meet on the gridiron.

Stupid Should Hurt 
Link to my Merch store the Stupid Should Hurt Line!

Reaper Apparel
Reaper Apparel Co was built for those who refuse to die slowly! Reaper isn't just clothing it’s a lifestyle!

Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support

Step off the spectator stands and into the lives of Andy Santiago and Allie Green, as they swing into our latest episode with stories that link the crack of the bat and the thwack of the tennis ball to real-world wins. Cleveland's own athletic achievers peel back the layers of their college sports days, with Andy diving into the nitty-gritty of baseball and accounting, while Allie serves up insights from her journey from tennis to public health. Their candid memories from campus life and the enduring bonds formed therein give us a play-by-play of how the lessons learned in sports arenas translate into career grand slams.

Switching gears, get ready to feel the burn as I open up about my evolution from chuckling on stage to squatting in the gym. The episode pumps up the volume with tales of iron wills and iron bars — where Spartan races and Ironman challenges are just the warm-up. We're talking about seizing the day with morning workouts that can sharpen your focus sharper than any caffeine shot, navigating the hurdles of personal limitations, and customizing fitness regimes like a tailor-made suit. Whether you're in it for the endorphins or the accolades, our conversation is a high-energy sprint through the importance of staying active, adaptable, and above all, passionate, no matter where the track may lead.

Stupid Should Hurt 
Link to my Merch store the Stupid Should Hurt Line!

Reaper Apparel
Reaper Apparel Co was built for those who refuse to die slowly! Reaper isn't just clothing it’s a lifestyle!

Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support

As the neon lights of Las Vegas faded into the background, Austin Fitch, the inspiring coach from Fort Cherry, PA, joined me to recount the whirlwind of leading his team to the state finals. Journey through the highs and lows of competitive sports with us, where the buzz of New Year's in Vegas sets the stage for a discussion on the city's burgeoning sports scene. From the warm embrace of the Raiders to the triumphs of the Vegas Golden Knights, we explore how geographical ties to teams can stir the hearts of fans, especially amid the turbulence of relocations and name changes.

This week's episode isn't just about the glitz of game nights; it's a heartfelt narrative of Fort Cherry's legacy, where football giants like Marvin Lewis and Marty Schottenheimer have left indelible marks. Austin opens up about his own career trajectory, from technical education to the postal service, and even his offbeat passion for comedy. It's a testament to the power of ambition and the importance of chasing dreams, no matter how divergent the paths may seem. Austin's story is a blend of past and present, echoing the perseverance and spirit of Fort Cherry's finest.

Wrap up your week with more than just a conversation; it's an experience as Austin shares his love for the scenic vistas beyond Vegas's casinos and his fervent support for Pittsburgh sports. Our "Fast Fiddy Five" segment peels back the layers, revealing the man behind the coach's whistle—his personal tastes, his Sunday rituals, and an invitation to the unique charm of a Friday night in McDonald, Pennsylvania. If you're seeking inspiration or just a good story, this episode promises to deliver both, with a side of community pride and an enduring pursuit of excellence.

Stupid Should Hurt 
Link to my Merch store the Stupid Should Hurt Line!

Reaper Apparel
Reaper Apparel Co was built for those who refuse to die slowly! Reaper isn't just clothing it’s a lifestyle!

Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support

When an injury benched my dreams of swimming competitively, I understood the weight of saying goodbye to a lifelong passion. Today, Pat Svihlik, a former college soccer standout who's now shaping futures at Notre Dame College, joins me to share that familiar pang of an athlete's career cut short and the resilience needed to craft new dreams. We follow Pat's journey from his rough-and-tumble childhood games with his brothers to the turning point that saw him hang up his cleats and pick up the coach's whistle. Alongside, we delve into the world of college recruitment, unpacking the allure that pulled him to Walsh University, and nodding to the friendships that often guide our most pivotal choices.

The conversation takes a heartwarming turn as we reminisce about the euphoria of calling a championship soccer game, before peering into the multifaceted life of a college admissions officer at the historic Notre Dame College. Moving through corridors of laughter, we exchange tales from wearing our many hats—mine as a comedian and podcast host, and Pat's as an administrator. But don't let the chuckles fool you; there's wisdom in our "Fast Fiddy Five" segment, where quirky questions unlock candid revelations. As the episode winds down, Pat takes a moment to step back from the spotlight, redirecting our attention to those serving in the armed forces and first responders with a heartfelt thank you, leaving listeners with a sense of gratitude and blessings for the New Year.

Stupid Should Hurt 
Link to my Merch store the Stupid Should Hurt Line!

Reaper Apparel
Reaper Apparel Co was built for those who refuse to die slowly! Reaper isn't just clothing it’s a lifestyle!

Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support

Unlock the secrets behind the success of college football's elite teams as I sit down with a panel of pros including former players like Johnny "Fiddy" Falconi, Jovon Johnson, brothers Ryan and Drew Barth, Dan Bolson, Mister Askew, Jonas Jackson, and the legendary Hal Mumme. Together, we dissect the brilliance of Nick Saban's Alabama and make our bold predictions for the playoff showdowns ahead. Whether you're a die-hard Crimson Tide fan or just love the strategic battles on the gridiron, this episode is your playbook to understanding what separates the good teams from the great ones.

Ever wondered how powerhouse programs like Michigan and Washington impact their universities beyond the scoreboard? Our conversation uncovers the transformative effects of playoff success, touching on everything from merchandise sales to academic prestige. Plus, we tackle the future of the College Football Playoffs with insights from Ryan Barth and Dan Bolson, debating the merits of expanding the current system and reflecting on how such changes could alter the collegiate landscape.

As we round off our gridiron gabfest, we spotlight the legacies being carved out by coaches like Jim Harbaugh and explore his potential NFL prospects. The episode culminates with a lively discussion on the pros and cons of moving to a 12-team playoff, offering diverse perspectives from across the college football realm. Whether you're a casual fan or a coaching connoisseur, this episode is a touchdown dance of knowledge and entertainment.

Stupid Should Hurt 
Link to my Merch store the Stupid Should Hurt Line!

Reaper Apparel
Reaper Apparel Co was built for those who refuse to die slowly! Reaper isn't just clothing it’s a lifestyle!

Subscribe for exclusive content: https://www.buzzsprout.com/1530455/support