エピソード

  • Cooper DeJean: Super Bowl Champion, Small Town Iowa to Philadelphia Eagles star cornerback first NFL player to score on his birthday in a Super Bowl with pick six of Patrick Mahomes, talks Jalen Hurts, Saquon Barkley and Exciting Whites
    2025/02/18
    "I hope coming from where I come from, I inspire other kids back home from my community, we are a small town but if you put that work in, you can go as far as you want." Cooper DeJean Super Bowl Champion From a small town in Iowa to NFL Super Star in his first year with the Philadelphia Eagles, Cooper DeJean has shaken up the sports world with his high level of play by breaking the mold for cornerbacks in the league. Fresh off the Super Bowl Parade, Ryan, Channing and Fred sit with the rookie defensive back as he reflects on his unbelievable season, turning stereotypes into success, proving doubters wrong and how his dream became his football reality. A man of many NFL nicknames- the Caucasian Corner, Cooper DeJawn, One half of the Exciting Whites, but after his interception for a touchdown against the Kansas City Chiefs in the Super Bowl, Cooper DeJean is now a household name. Growing up in Odebolt, Iowa, DeJean didn’t always see football as his future and thought basketball was his path until his on-field football skills became hard to ignore. Through hard work and sacrifice, Cooper shares how his upbringing molded him into the man he is today, how his parents' unwavering support led him to chase his NFL dream that has now made him a Super Bowl champion at just 22 year old. Spinning the white cornerback stereotype into a movement, Cooper embraced his opportunity and at every turn continued to shut down opposing offenses and consistently led the defense with aggressive playmaking. Going in-depth with the Eagles game plan to talking the guys through the team's mindset leading up to the big game, Cooper opens up on how Philadelphia prepared for victory while giving an inside perspective to the their decisive win over the defending champions, Kansas City Chiefs. He shares how the night before the game a certain energy filtrated the locker room from powerful speeches made by the veterans to the look of certainty in each of his teammates' eyes. The bright lights and global stage of Super Bowl Sunday didn't cripple momentum but rather spurred more motivation as Cooper couldn't have scripted his birthday any better than picking off Patrick Mahomes and returning it for a touchdown to put the Eagles in control. Admittedly, Cooper shares how he didn't fully grasp the magnitude of the moment in real time and to him, he was just out there playing football like he's always done. He shares the unique leadership and focus of Quarterback Jalen Hurts and how Saquon Barkley helped guide him through his rookie year, pushing him to be the best version of himself every week. The Philadelphia roster remains intact heading into the offseason which has the guys fired up to get back to ball and see what the future holds to defend their title. Cooper's humility keeps him grounded as he continues to be an example for his community back home that through hard work and dedication, anything is possible. He shares some of the messages he received after his championship title including from fellow Iowa Hawkeye Caitlin Clark, who despite rooting for Kansas City was beyond happy to congratulate her college friend. Thank you to our friends at Crown Royal for delivering this episode and a reminder to our Pivot Family- Live Generously and life will treat you Royally. Visit @crownroyal on Instagram for special recipes and to learn more on the purple bag project. PLEASE DRINK RESPONSIBLY. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    55 分
  • Tristan Wirfs NFL All Pro and Super Bowl Champion talks protecting Tom Brady vs Baker Mayfield, dealing with mental struggles of the pressures of position, Tampa Bay Bucs future, Iowa greats and becoming a father
    2025/02/14
    “You might not have everything you want, but you're gonna have everything you need.” Tristan Wirfs on powerful words from his mother In this episode of The Pivot, Ryan, Channing and Fred sit with Tampa Bay Buccaneers All-Pro tackle and Super Bowl champion Tristan Wirfs who discusses his journey from Iowa to NFL stardom as he shares what it was like protecting Tom Brady year one vs Baker Mayfield now, talks the personal struggles he’s overcome and how fast life changes if we don’t adapt. Immediately as the conversation starts, the energy is high, and the guys realize Tristan isn’t the typical offensive lineman personality wise as he jokes with the guys, joins in on the fun and delivers a refreshing perspective to football, family and life. Wirfs reflects on the high expectations placed on him as a rookie tasked with protecting one of the greatest quarterbacks of all time. He shares with the guys invaluable advice from his coaches that taught him importance of discipline and consistency as well as the one thing Tom Brady said to not let happen! Opening up about the mental struggles he faced transitioning in the league, revealing that nightmares and anxiety crept in as he doubted himself, especially as he was tasked with switching positions and the pressures he felt being on this level. His bond with Baker Mayfield and his offensive line helped pull him through the dark times and now he’s looking to lead his team back to a championship. Wirfs’ motivation and mindset stems from the strength he received from is his mother, who worked tirelessly to provide for him and his sister as a single mother. He shares an emotional story of calling her to tell her she no longer had to work and how meaningful the sacrifices she made back then are now. This past summer, Wirfs welcomed his first child and it immediately changed his perspective, bringing deeper joy and responsibility into his life. He speaks on the rewarding experience of giving back, whether it’s participating in Iowa’s Hawkeye Wave tradition, and how special it’s been to see so much unexpected talent come from his Alma mater from Caitlin Clark to Cooper DeJean to Riley Moss and more… Wirfs journey is a testament of not just chasing a dream but fulfilling it through hard work, mental resilience and gratitude. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 時間 1 分
  • James Harrison 2x Super Bowl Champion, former All Pro LineBacker one of the NFL's scariest man opens up on what kept him humble, the mentality fueled his greatness, his famous 100 yard Interception return in SB XLIII and how parenting saved his life
    2025/02/11
    “I never really wanted kids because I never wanted to care more about somebody than I did myself. And when I had them, I became vulnerable. I was no longer invincible. I think that was something I needed.” James Harrison 2x Super Bowl Champ and 5x Pro Bowler on his biggest Pivot After the sports world just witnessed one of the best defensive performances by a team in a Super Bowl with Philadelphia’s win, we can’t help but remember the infamous 100 yard interception return by James Harrison in Super Bowl XLIII and how maybe the All Pro Line Backer was onto something when he said, "Offense win games, Defense win championships." The Super Bowl hero and former Pittsburgh Steelers All Pro sits with his old teammate Ryan Clark, along with Channing Crowder and Fred Taylor, for a wide open and wide ranging conversation about his NFL journey, his unmatched intensity on and off the field and how fatherhood saved his life. Starting out the gate, the question is asked: Is James Harrison actually scary, or just misunderstood? Channing has funny banter as the guys debate James’ intense, no-nonsense demeanor and how he maintained this alter ego. Harrison shares how he was raised to believe that kindness could be mistaken for weakness and lived by that mantra with his on-field play reflecting it. Harrison opens up about his struggles early on in his career from playing at Kent State to NFL Europe to getting cut multiple times, and almost walking away from football. But his relentless work ethic instilled from his parents and a 'chip on the shoulder' mentality fueled his efforts. He shares how Steelers Defensive Coordinator Dick LeBeau played a crucial role in shaping his career, admitting that without him, “There is no James Harrison.” Harrison doesn’t hold back when discussing some of his hardest hits and biggest fines, including a notable play involving Josh Cribbs that cost him $75,000, which he feels he shouldn’t have paid, but perhaps someone in the room who was truly responsible for it, should have paid, as he gives a look to Ryan. The guys get into a deeper conversation about how the locker room and playing mentality was different during their days vs today's era. He reveals in a shocking story, what ultimately led him to leave Pittsburgh to play with AFC rivals Patriots and then Bengals. Always living on the edge with a reckless abandon approach to all aspects of his life, Harrison opens up on how becoming a father didn't just soften him, but changed his entire outlook financially, mentally and even safety wise. In a heartfelt moment, James shares the 180 his life took after becoming a dad and how 100% honesty is what guides his parenting skills, even when some things are better off not said! From parenting advice to chatting about James' potential MMA/boxing match with Chad OchoCinco Johnson, the guys' conversation goes from laugh out loud moments to tears filling up discussing the evolution of life as the men have grown older. This episode has it all whether a football fan or curious about life, family, growth as we peel back the layers of James Harrison- the fierce competitor, the devoted father, and the man who never backs down from a challenge. Pivot Family-Use code 50PIVOT to get 50% OFF plus free shipping on your first Factor box at https://bit.ly/40yF3k1 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 時間 3 分
  • Nik Bonitto: NFL All Pro, Denver Broncos Linee Backer, talks Patrick Mahomes, college teammate Jalen Hurts, Kansas City Chiefs, Patrick Surtain II winning Defensive Player of the Year & Super Bowl Preview match up
    2025/02/07
    “At the end of the day, the Pro Bowls and All Pro's are cool and stuff. But you know, I came in the league wanting to have a gold jacket." Nik Bonitto Kicking off Super Bowl Wknd and getting ready for the big game with a player who faces the Chiefs twice a year and played with Philadelphia's quarterback at Oklahoma. In this episode of The Pivot Podcast, Ryan, Channig and Fred sit down with first time All Pro, Denver Broncos linebacker Nik Bonitto as he talks about his journey to the NFL, adjusting to life in Denver, facing Patrick Mahomes, playing with Jalen Hurts in college, his support of Broncos teammate Patrick Surtain II winning the Defensive Player of the Year and why people hate the Chiefs! Love them or hate them, you have to respect them says Bonitto about the Chiefs, especially Patrick Mahomes who always seems to find ways to win and is a true leader on and off the field. It's not about magic, cheating or any of that, it's about the formula for a winning DNA that KC has! Bonitto also talks about the same things that made Jalen Hurts great in college are what make him the special leader he is today with the Eagles. Bonitto gives his Super Bowl prediction and also recognizes his own teammate Patrick Surtain for being a technician on the field and winning the league's Defensive Player of the Year award as well as the future for their QB Bo Nix. Switching gears to his own career, Bonitto talks about his time as a Bronco and how adjusting to the altitude in Denver was a brutal reality check—Bonitto jokes that he thought he might get cut after his first rookie minicamp. He also speaks on the Broncos’ disappointing culture in his rookie season the arrival of Sean Payton brought a much-needed cultural shift, as the veteran coach emphasized accountability and championship habits as the Broncos try to compete with a tough AFC West division. Bonitto opens up about his struggles early in his career, particularly the frustration of not getting playing time despite being Denver’s first pick. He credits his faith in God for keeping him focused, knowing that bigger things were planned for him and his hard work ethic of staying ready. He also discusses his personal goals, gives Channing some fashion advice and who his pick is in this year’s Super Bowl LIX matchup between Kansas City Chiefs and the Philadelphia Eagles. Enjoy this conversation Pivot Fam as we get ready for the Big Game in the Big Easy! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    50 分
  • All Pro Derek Stingley Jr and his pops, Derek Stingley Sr, talk 3 generations of NFL, paralyzing hit to his grandfather , growing up in Louisiana, LSU football 2019, Houston Texans, CJ Stroud, defending Patrick Mahomes, legacy and Super Bowl
    2025/02/04
    “Even with the good, you know, the bad is going to always come. And I will always say block out the outside noise. You only control what you can control." Derek Stingley Jr's advice from his father Special episode to kick off Super Bowl week as Ryan, Channing and Fred sit with a football family spanning three NFL generations. Louisiana natives nick-named Big Sting and Little Sting-Derek Stingley Sr. and Derek Stingley Jr. chat about legacy of their family name in football, dealing with heartache, overcoming unimaginable challenges, the sacrifices it takes to reach the highest level of the game and how to stay at the top once you are there. Derek Stingley Jr, Houston Texans' All Pro Cornerback, is one of the most explosive and skilled players in the NFL, going from a stand out at LSU and part of the 2019 National Championship team to now paving his own path as one of the top defensive players in the league while living out the legacy of his family name. But the young Stingley's football story started long ago. His father shares the story of Sting's grandfather, Darryl Stingley, whose career was tragically cut short after a paralyzing hit in an NFL preseason game. Derek Stingley Sr recalls watching the hit that would forever alter their family's life and despite the trauma of his father’s injury, Stingley Sr. never ran from football. He explains that his father instilled in him the mindset that “as football players, we assume the risks'," and this same mentality was passed down to his son, Stingley Jr who shares in the memories of his late grandfather, his approach to the game and how his own dad's tough coaching prepared him for the NFL level now. As a proud father, Stingley Sr understands its the 1% of the 1% who make it to the NFL but recalls the "this is different" moment when he first saw something special in his son, Derek Jr while coaching him as a young boy who always wanted to match up against the older kids and thrived on competition. “I stood back there with my hands on my hair like, oh my God, like, how could somebody that young do that or think that?". Stingley Jr. reflects on his journey to the NFL, from his time at LSU, where he was regarded as the best player on the team as a freshman on a National championship team that featured Joe Burrow, Ja’Marr Chase and Justin Jefferson. He and his father discuss how they handled the outside noise whether it’s praise or criticism. When it comes to on-the-field matchups, Stingley Jr. breaks down his first experiences in the NFL, discussing the speed of the game, going against elite quarterbacks like Patrick Mahomes, and recognizing the talent of practice squad players who don’t get the credit they deserve. He assesses his season, believing he could have had far more interceptions, showcasing the high expectations he holds for himself. Having played the Kansas City Chiefs twice this year, Sting shares what he thinks the Philadelphia Eagles must do to slow down the man in red and white wearing #15 looking for his 3rd back to back title in Super Bowl LIX. Stingley Jr. reflecting on what he wants his legacy to be, stating that when people hear his name, he wants them to say he made his family proud. With a father and grandfather whose legacies are woven into football history, He understands the weight of his last name but instead of running from it, he embraces it. This episode is a true testament to family, resilience, and the pursuit of greatness. The Stingley’s story is more than just football, It’s about overcoming adversity, honoring legacy, and building something that lasts beyond the game. Don't forget to hit subscribe on YouTube for all the latest updates and new releases. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 時間
  • NFL Pro Bowl to Super Bowl: Ryan Clark, Fred Taylor & Channing Crowder talking Patrick Mahomes vs Jalen Hurts, Andy Reid , new coaches, Glory holes, Duuuval, fear of failure, American Airlines tragedy a reminder of life is short
    2025/01/31
    “Life is not about scoreboard watching.” Ryan Clark The Super Bowl match up is set and we are down in Orlando with all the guys who didn’t make it but had insane seasons this year! That’s right, we got the fellas together down here at the Pro Bowl and we are talking the Big Game in the Big Easy, the Quarterback match ups, Andy Reid’s greatness, reality of fan culture, new coach hires, personal fears and how we adjust to the unpredictable moments of life. Ryan, Channing and Fred bring a blend of insight, humor, raw honesty as the trio goes beyond the actual games and talk storylines surrounding the top headlines. Recapping some of the new coach hires of course starting in Duuuval as Fred shares his reaction to the man in charge and not what he said but how he said it to make it the most played sound bite in sports! Continuing around the league, the guys have fun trying to make sense of Jerry Jones’ use of the expression Glory hole while Channing weighs in on his own take on what that means which turns into one of the more hilarious stories on the show! Turning attention to next week’s game, the powerhouse match up between Philadelphia and Kansas City as the Chiefs try to make history with a three-peat while it’s a battle of two highly talented quarterbacks with Patrick Mahomes and Jalen Hurts. Ryan reflects on how, just two years ago, the focus was solely on their race, but today, it’s about their ability as elite quarterbacks—a sign of progress. The conversation continues on how rephrasing the way we talk about black quarterbacks is evolving and we should continue to push the narrative to be on the talent, skill and who the athletes are as people not defined by skin color. Fred brings up the unapologetic behaviors of fans and how there is no accountability which Ryan agrees where Channing chimes in that being heckled and shit talked by fans comes with the territory when people sign up to be paid millions of dollars to play a sport. Pivoting to the sad reality for so many, The guys reflect and send a heartfelt message to those impacted by the tragedy of the American Airlines Flight 5342 and use it as a reminder not to take life for granted and understand you never know how the simple things we do daily can not always going as planned. The guys take a moment and chat about they fear in life whether it’s a big over arching fear or something fun in the moment that scares them as Ryan, Channing and Fred each share what’s on their mind which leads into a deeper look about the fear of failure by the pressure of success. As we wrap the conversation, Ryan leaves the guys asking if they could go back in time to redo an awkward moment in life, what would it be and why….the responses are interesting and show a little deeper look into some of the moments that shaped who the guys are today. Don’t forget to hit the subscribe button and follow along with us on our social to get the latest updates and guest surprises. Pivot Family we have a special offer for you to help balance your lifestyle and better eating habits! Use code 50PIVOT to get 50% OFF plus free shipping on your first Factor box at https://bit.ly/40yF3k1! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 時間 5 分
  • Jerome Bettis: Super Bowl Champion known as The Bus talks journey from the Detroit streets to NFL Hall of Fame, Pittsburgh's Pride, his family legacy, Notre Dame and defines today's franchise Running Back and what makes Saquon Barkley different
    2025/01/28
    "The name on my back was always my moral compass." Jerome Bettis Here comes the Bus! Yes Pivot Family, we have an epic episode as Ryan, Channing, and Fred sit with NFL legend and Hall of Famer Jerome Bettis, known in the football world as “The Bus.” Bettis shares stories from his humble beginnings to strong family bonds to renowned football career to his life journey making it from the streets of Detroit to the fame walls of Canton and inspiring moments along the way. Very few organizations have the identity the Pittsburgh Steelers have and Jerome Bettis is very clear on how that football organization shaped not just his play on the field but his way of life in how he approached every aspect of life. He recounts how Pittsburgh’s blue-collar mentality resonated with him, how the locker room shared in a special camaraderie with players embracing the culture that created the team's collective drive for greatness. Starting the conversation off with a little fun reflecting on the old rivalry between Bettis and Freddy T back in the days where Fred would have some of his best games vs the Pittsburgh Steelers which transitions the guys into talking the current state of the NFL, specifically the diminishing value of running backs and how today’s offenses have shifted away from the power running game Backs like them thrived in. Bettis calls out how Philadelphia being in the Super Bowl is no surprise since the team acquired Saquon who in Bettis' mind, is the ideal Franchise running back along with Derrick Henry, who both proved a strong ground game is a must for a team's longevity. Speaking of Super Bowl, Bettis recounts the pivotal moment that shaped his decision to delay retirement: a conversation with his late teammate Clark Haggans about playing the big game in Bettis' hometown of Detroit and how he couldn't miss that run. His decision led to a full circle moment capping his career with a storybook ending winning a Super Bowl title with his Pittsburgh Steelers. The discussion dives into Bettis’ early life in inner-city Detroit, where football wasn’t initially on his radar. He candidly shares how his high school coach helped steer him away from the streets, convincing him that he had the talent to play in the NFL. Bettis credits this intervention as his pivotal moment, leading him to Notre Dame, where legendary coach Lou Holtz recruited him and paved the way for a new opportunity. He opens up on moments of humility, including a funny story about winning Rookie of the Year but still being required to take out the trash at his parents’ house as well as insights into his father’s advice to always protect the family name and the pride he felt seeing fans wear his jersey...a constant reminder to uphold a standard of excellence. A journey filled with so many highs and powerful moments, Bettis never shys away from the lessons learned along the way, although he jokes he didn't think his own teammate Ryan would bring up the hardest one to talk about. Emotion masked with laughter, Bettis reflects on how his career could have ended so much differently after fumbling the opportunity of his life-long dream in the AFC Championship game vs the Indianapolis Colts. He takes Ryan, Channing and Fred through the rollercoaster of emotions in that few second span and how humility turned to hope and how his life was forever changed for the better and his legacy cemented in history books. With humor, wisdom, and candid storytelling, this episode highlights the many sides of Jerome Bettis—from the relentless competitor to the devoted family man. You don't need to be a Steelers fan to appreciate this powerful story filled with inspiration, lessons, prayer, perseverance, humility, and the pursuit of greatness. Cancel your unwanted subscriptions and reach your financial goals faster with Rocket Money http://rocketmoney.com/pivot Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 時間 18 分
  • Nick Saban: Becoming a Hall of Fame Coach, state of college vs NFL, reveals never-told-before stories, his one career regret, building football, family and life with Miss Terry and responds to infamous Channing stories
    2025/01/21
    “What do you want your legacy to be as a coach? Do you want to be Vince Lombardi or Bear Bryant? I said Bear Bryant… So, what are you doing going to Miami than?” The conversation we've all been waiting for where Channing's infamous stories get checked, and we have some laughs while we learn the path of one of the most respected and successful figures in sports. Ahead of College Football's National Championship, we get to sit with the man who has the most wins with 7 titles and decades of storied seasons. Newly selected Hall of Fame Coach and the true GOAT of college football, Nick Saban, is sitting with Ryan, Channing and Fred for a rare and personal look into the journey that shaped his life, the values that drive his success, and the lessons learned from decades of coaching at the highest level. The conversation begins with Saban reflecting on his humble beginnings and how he stumbled into coaching, despite initially wanting nothing to do with it. He recalls working at his father’s service station and the life-changing moment he realized coaching was a way to combine his love for competition with a deeper purpose: shaping young men’s futures. With humor and humility, Coach shares how he never set out to become the “GOAT” but focused on the process—a philosophy that has become synonymous with his name. Saban notes pivotal moments in his career, including his brief and challenging stint with the Miami Dolphins. He opens up about the decision not to sign Drew Brees due to a failed physical, a move that still lingers as one of his biggest “what-ifs.” Despite this, he explains why returning to college football was the right decision, allowing him to develop players both on and off the field in ways the NFL couldn’t. Both having played for Saban, Ryan and Channing speak of Saban’s legendary leadership style, exploring how he motivates players and manages diverse personalities. He shares how he learned to tailor his coaching approach to each individual and how to get the best out of his guys that went way beyond talent and skill. It's a known thing that when you see Coach Saban, his wife isn't too far away. Always by his side, Miss Terry has been Coach's partner in life, football and all his endeavors for more than 50 years as the two met as young kids and created this life they could never imagine which has been sustained through love, success and true dedication. The conversation goes from life lessons to lighter locker room talk as the guys bring up Channing's rookie stunt during Saban's tenure in Miami to get his reaction and how that really all went down, Saban responds in the best "Nick Saban" way possible as Ryan, Fred and Channing break out into laughter. From joking around and reminiscing, the episode reveals never-told-before stories, the real reason why Saban said farewell to coaching as the guys don't shy away from discussing the challenges facing modern college football. Saban gets into the current state of NIL while sharing his concerns for growth, character building and how the futures of young men are being altered. In a reflective moment, Saban looks back on his life and all the things he feels defined him as he recalls certain times he had to push his teams harder, especially when complacency crept in after winning which led to creating his famous, “nothing speech,” where he reminds players that entitlement leads to nothing and what underscores commitment to hard work and accountability. Packed with humor, wisdom, and powerful lessons, this episode offers an unparalleled look into the mind of one of sports' greatest leaders. Whether you’re a fan of the game or simply looking for inspiration, Nick Saban’s journey will leave you motivated to trust the process and redefine success on your own terms. Tap in on YouTube and hit the subscribe button for more conversations like this. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
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    1 時間 19 分