A Coach's Perspective

Episode #385: In this episode, we recognize Lance Kettering, Executive Director of the Springfield Sports Commission, and the outstanding work he did organizing the Springfield Sports Commission Awards in partnership with the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame. We also celebrated with Female Athlete of the Year Brooke Daniels from Fair Grove High School and her basketball coach, Gary Greene, gathering insights on what makes her such a unique and talented athlete and champion both on and off the court. Guest: Lance Kettering, Brooke Daniels, Gary Greene

Episode #384: Tonight, we recognized one of the finest officials in the state, region, and nation. Emry Dilday had a profound impact on officials, coaches, athletic administrators, friends, and countless others throughout his career. He was an absolute presence in every sense of the word, and we celebrated both his life and his enduring legacy. Joining us from the officiating community were two officials who worked alongside Emry and have known him for decades: Ron Snodgrass and Craig Kelley. From the athletic administrative perspective, we welcomed Becky Oakes, former Executive Director of the Missouri State High School Activities Association and the National Federation of State High School Associations. And representing what was undoubtedly his most cherished role—that of father—we welcomed his wonderful daughter, Missy Facklam. Together, we honored a man whose influence extended far beyond the playing field and whose memory will continue to inspire all who knew him. Guest: Ron Snodgrass, Craig Kelly, Missy Facklam, and Becky Oakes

Episode #383: We're excited to cover the 2nd annual WEMO CFC (Western Missouri Coaches Fighting Cancer) Coaches Clinic on Wednesday, August 6, 2025. Coach Bob Coffey, Coach Trish Marsh, and Coach Gary Pendergraft join us to discuss the speaker lineup, logistics, and mission behind this upcoming clinic. "Round Two: Beyond the X's and O's – The Art of Effective Coaching" will be hosted by Greenwood Laboratory School on the campus of Missouri State University in Springfield, Missouri. For more information, visit wemocfc.com. Guest: Trish Marsh, Bob Coffey, Gary Pendergraft

Episode #382: Whatever sport you play, you'll be able to relate to the talented professional handball athletes in this episode. Ray Ure, national men's collegiate champion and national professional men's runner-up, and national women's champion Mikaila Esser join us to break down the game of handball, discussing the athletic demands of playing a professional sport, and sharing insights on taking your game to the next level. Guest: Ray Ure, Mikaila Esser

Episode #381: Matt Krueger, Executive Director of the United States Handball Association (USHA), and Sam Esser, Development Director of the USHA and accomplished professional player, join us to preview this weekend's highly anticipated 4-wall national handball tournament. Our conversation explores not only the excitement and competitive energy surrounding the tournament, but also delves into the comprehensive fitness benefits and fundamental techniques that make handball such a distinctive sport. Krueger and Esser share insights into handball's unique athletic demands, the strategic elements that define elite play, and the welcoming, tight-knit community culture that has sustained this dynamic sport for generations. Guest: Matt Krueger, Sam Esser

Episode #380: Steve Shepherd joins us for a conversation about the state of collegiate athletics and his impact at College of the Ozarks. As the men's basketball coach and athletic director, Coach Shepherd leads his team and this unique athletic department with a spiritual mindset and team-oriented philosophy. Guest: Steve Shepherd

Episode #379: Patrick Ransdell joins us for a conversation about the state of collegiate athletics and his impact at Missouri State University. Since assuming the position, Ransdell has worked with the Bears athletics program to enhance game experiences, foster greater community and student involvement, and bring renewed energy to athletic events. Guest: Patrick Ransdell

Episode #378: It's time! Arena Football kicks off again, and we had two standout players from the Ozarks Lunkers join us. MVP Matt Rush and Kendrick Payne discussed the new league rules, the upcoming season, their remarkable team chemistry, and their preparation strategies for their second season in the league. Come out and support the Lunkers this season! Guests: Matt Rush and Kendrick Payne

Episode #377: From rodeo to coaching to athletic administration, Coach Nyla Milleson has been a leader and champion throughout her career path. Her journey spans from building Drury Athletics to navigating the variables of athletics, while focusing on developing relationships and appreciating experiences along the way. Guests: Nyla Milleson

Episode #376: Rick Grayson joins us to share his insights and experiences with the Masters professional golf tournament. Viewing the storylines of Augusta National through the lens of a PGA golf instructor gave us an inside peek into a different perspective on what unfolded on the course. We also played "out of the hat" asking questions and picked the brain of a golf pro to gather tips for improving our overall golf game. Guests: Rick Grayson

Episode #375: We welcome the recently crowned Class 3 Girls Basketball State Champions from Fair Grove: Coach Gary Greene along with his seniors Ashton Bell, Brooke Daniels, Abbey Greene, Camdyn Hart, Shea Skouby, Meadow Carter, Emaley Stallings, and Emma Padgett. Playing together since kindergarten, these seniors go out in style after capping off their careers with their third state championship! Guests: Gary Greene, Ashton Bell, Brooke Daniels, Abbey Greene, Camdyn Hart, Shea Skouby, Meadow Carter, Emaley Stallings

Episode #374: In this episode, we celebrated the Class 4 Girls Basketball State Champions, the Doniphan Donnettes, and their path to holding that state championship trophy. Coach Adam Epps, Class 4 Player of the Year Carsyn Hagood, and talented point guard Maddie Redus joined us as they recount what their success meant to their school and community. We also celebrated with Coach Jack Simpson and highly decorated player Dassiah Green from Parkview Boys Basketball and their Final Four trip, their program's first since 1981. The Vikings persevered through a tough schedule and peaked when they needed to, capping off a successful season. Guests: Adam Epps, Maddie Redus, Carsyn Hagood, Jack Simpson, Dassiah Green

Episode #373: In this episode, we explore the Track & Field and Cross Country experience at Missouri State University with athlete Riley Bryan and Head Coach Jordan Fife. We discuss training techniques, pre-performance routines, finding balance as a college athlete, and other perspectives on collegiate athletics. Guests: Jordan Fife, Riley Bryan

Episode #372: In this episode, we celebrate a state championship on the court with father-daughter duo Coach Kevin Cheek and All-State guard Kenzi Cheek. We also gain valuable insights from wife, mom, and team photographer Kelli Cheek on what it meant to witness Kenzi's high school career culminate in a state championship comeback victory. Additionally, we catch up with Missouri State High School Activities Association Executive Director Dr. Jen Rukstad and celebrate the progress she has made during her first three years on the job. Guests: Kevin, Kelli, Kenzi Cheek and Dr. Jen Rukstad

Episode #370: In this episode, we catch up with Coach Chuck Hepola on the success of his Evangel football program and on bringing his philosophy to the entire athletic department as the new Director of Athletics. Guests: Chuck Hepola

Episode #369: In this episode, Kevin Kane and Tierney Baumstark discuss Missouri State University Women's Golf and the intricacies of being a collegiate golfer. They explore the development of student-athletes, team dynamics, coachability, learning from mistakes, preparation, and both the technical and mental aspects required for success in golf.

Episode #368: In this episode, we sit down with Grant Burkett, Missouri State University's four-time All-American punter, to discuss his stellar career as a Bear. We explore what's ahead for freshman kicker Stewart McDonald and his promising future at Missouri State. The conversation delves into the physical demands, sport-specific techniques, and mental challenges of being a kicker—including the unique pressure of performing with perfect precision. Guests: Stewart McDonald, Grant Burkett

Episode #367: In this episode, we explore how boxing transforms lives through the stories of two special athletes: Lee Macharia and Sonja Kirsch. They join us alongside their coach, Hall of Fame boxer Darrell "Smitty" Smith, owner of Smitty's Midwest Boxing Gym. For over 15 years, Coach Smitty has been training champions both inside and outside the ring, positively impacting young boxers' lives. Lee and Sonja share how the sport of boxing and Coach Smitty's guidance have shaped their journeys.

Episode #366: In this episode, we meet Jake von Scherrer, a Hall of Fame Athletic Director who shares his top tools of the trade. Jake is also a #1 best-selling author of "The Athletic Director's Toolbox: The Top Twenty Tools for Success," which draws from insights gathered through his role as host of The Educational AD Podcast, the leading podcast for athletic directors. Jake shares invaluable wisdom about what it takes to excel as an athletic director and offers expert advice on leading successful athletic programs.

Episode #365: In this episode, we continue to celebrate the life and enduring impact of Dr. Edsel Matthews. We explored Matthews' role as an athletic director with Mark Fisher and learned about his life as a family man through conversations with his daughter, Cheryl Kepes. Dr. Matthews and his professional and personal legacy will ripple through for generations. Guests: Mark Fisher, Cheryl Kepes

Episode #364: In this episode, we celebrate the life and enduring impact of Dr. Edsel Matthews. One of the most cherished chapters in his professional journey was his time as a coach. We welcome former players James Bone and Mike Carter from the 1979 Drury University national championship team, along with team supporter Loren Broaddus. Next week, we'll explore Matthews' role as an athletic director with Mark Fisher and learn about his life as a family man through conversations with his daughter, Cheryl Kepes. Guests: James Bone, Mike Carter, Loren Broaddus

Episode #363: In this episode, we sit down with two prominent figures in handball: professional player Martin Mulkerrins and passionate supporter Doug Randolph. Fresh off a successful pro-tour season and strong showing at the world championships, Mulkerrins discusses both his physical and mental training regimens, as well as his dual role as an athlete and head coach at Texas A&M. We also gain valuable insights into the sport from Doug Randolph, whose Randolph Foundation for Higher Education has made a remarkable impact on collegiate handball through one-million-dollar endowments to four universities. Guests: Doug Randolph, Martin Mulkerrins

Episode #362: In this episode, Missouri State University's new Director of Athletics, Patrick Ransdell, brings a wealth of experience from six Division I universities to lead the Bears athletic program into Conference USA. With an ambitious vision centered on packed stadiums and arenas, Ransdell sees a future filled with energy and excitement for Bears athletics. Guests: Patrick Ransdell

Episode #361: In this episode, we speak with sports parents Amanda DeBoef and Stacy Asante. We discuss Amanda's article "7 Life Lessons Learned on the Basketball Court," which explores insights gained from observing a middle school basketball game. We also study "The 10 Commandments for Parents of Athletic Children." While being a sports parent can be challenging, it's ultimately a rewarding and joyful role. Amanda and Stacy offer valuable perspectives from their experiences supporting their athletic children. Guests: Amannda DeBoef, Stacy Asante

Episode #360: In this episode, join me and Cori Elms, decorated girls' basketball coach from Missouri, as we sit down with three New Hampshire coaches: David Chase, Tim LaTorra, and Mike Donnell. From selecting effective assistant coaches to communicating with parents about playing time and building winning cultures, this veteran panel tackles a variety of coaching challenges. In our "out of the hat" segment, these experienced coaches share their insights on random coaching scenarios. Guests: David Chase, Cori Elms, Tim LaTorra, Mike Donnell

Episode #359: In this episode, we sit down with Coach Rick Jones, senior assistant and advisor to University of Missouri football head coach Eli Drinkwitz. Coach Jones shares his perspective on the coaching profession, from managing the ups and downs of a season to handling criticism and incorporating analytics. Guests: Rick Jones

Episode #358: In this episode, we visit with former Proctor & Gamble executive and award winning author, Scott Mautz. His LinkedIn courses have been taken over 1.5 million times. We focus on his book, The Mentally Strong Leader, and the section on fortitude. How we handle adversity can directly reflect how effective we are as leaders. According to Mautz, being mentally strong is the superpower of leadership. Scott Mautz Website The Mentally Strong Leader Book

Episode #357: In this episode, we revisit my conversation with NFL Hall of Famer Emmitt Smith from the Boys and Girls Club Steak and Steak fundraiser. We navigate his experiences, from his time in Pensacola and the University of Florida to his career with the Dallas Cowboys and his appearance on Dancing with the Stars. Throughout our discussion, we explore how these diverse endeavors have shaped him into the family man and businessman he is today. Guests: Emmitt Smith

Episode #356: In this episode, we explore Christie Blasi's golf career and her recent induction into the Springfield Area Sports Hall of Fame. We also bring her famous caddy (and husband) Tim Blasi and sister Katie Yates Miller into the conversation. Together, we discuss their new venture, the Pickle and Chilly Dill, now open in Springfield, Missouri. This innovative recreation center offers indoor pickleball courts along with a wide array of cryotherapy services, providing a new health and fitness gathering spot in the Ozarks. Guests: Tim and Christie Blasi and Katie Yates Miller

Episode #355: In this episode, we welcome recent Springfield Area Sports Hall of Fame inductees Jon Leamy and Dennis Heim. We explored their successes and accolades, and how their experiences shaped them both professionally and personally. Thank you to my guests for sharing their perspectives! Guests: Jon Leamy and Dennis Heim

Episode #354: Raegan Weber, studio producer Logan Weber's younger sister, joins us to wrap up our Inspiring Athletes Series as she reflects on being diagnosed with a brain tumor at eight years old. After surgery, rehabilitation, and recovery she was able to battle back and become a cheerleader and excel in the world of theatre with advanced chorography. Her resilience and determination to recover inspired her brothers, as Logan expresses how she is his hero and has always been motivated by her determination. (Side note-Logan had no idea she was our guest this week until we surprised him during segment two!). Guests: Raegan and Logan Weber

Episode #353: Coach Shane Matzen joins us to discuss his new book, Coaching, Is It Worth It? (ABSOLUTELY) and shares his process and energy for the stories and anecdotes that he pieces together from his time as a coach and athletic director, along with his current career in the sport of golf working at Graves Golf and the unique system they teach. To order his book, visit Amazon. Guests: Shane Matzen

Episode #352: In this episode, we applauded and celebrated the upcoming induction of the Hillcrest High School Baseball Dick Birmingham Era into this year's Springfield Area Sports Hall of Fame as the Era of Excellence Award recipient. Joining us in studio to represent some of the talented teams from that era included Bill O'Dell, Tim Blasi, Steve Seal, and Pat Blasi. We honor the dedication, work ethic, discipline, and winning tradition that Dick Birmingham established at Hillcrest, and explored how these values have resonated throughout the lives of the men he coached. Guests: Bill O'Dell, Tim Blasi, Steve Seal, Pat Blasi

Episode #351: In this episode, we celebrate the inspiring journey of Drury University's Shotgun Sports Team to the National Championship, led by Coach Kevin Boyer and three senior standouts: Grant Boswell, an All-American and Collegiate Individual Champion trap shooter; Colten Cozza, a collegiate All-American; and Hayden Sanson, an All-American and AIM Grand National High Over-All shooter. We also share the extraordinary story of Colten Cozza and his recovery from an accident two years ago that left him in a wheelchair with an uncertain future. His incredible drive and inspiring "only-one-path-forward" attitude motivated both him and his teammates. Cozza's journey from national wheelchair division ATA champion to collegiate All-American on a national championship team is truly remarkable. Congratulations to the entire Drury Shotgun Sports Team! Guests: Kevin Boyer, Grant Boswell, Colten Cozza, and Hayden Sanson

Episode #350: In this episode, we explore the journey of Kadyn Carroll, a champion dancer who was diagnosed with cystic fibrosis at 11 days old. Along with her mother Katie, we delve into Kadyn's path through hospital stays, treatments, and medications. Despite her uncertain prognosis, it is Kadyn's competitiveness, determination, and sheer will that have brought her to the most stable point of her life. Controlling her diet, exercise, and using dance as her therapy of choice have propelled her forward. We discuss Dance 101 with Kadyn and her teammate, Katy Daugherty, exploring the physical and mental aspects of this sport and how it ripples into their lives. Guests: Katie and Kadyn Carroll, Katy Daugherty

Episode #349: In this episode, we explore the journey of Cross Kubik, a member of the Drury University Men's Golf Team, who has battled and beaten cancer twice against incredible odds. Cross, along with his parents Brian and Ashley, shares his story that involves faith, family, competitiveness, and a sister who saved his life. His inspirational story is captured in the book: The Power of the Cross: Beating Cancer Twice and God's Plan for My Life. This incredible story is available at crosskubik.com and on Amazon, with proceeds going to St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Guests: Cross, Brian, and Ashley Kubik

Episode #348: In this episode Hailey Jo Hopkins and I recap and reflect on the 2024 Paris Olympic games! The world's greatest athletes on the world's greatest stage uniting the world through competition and sports. From the Rubik's cube to Gold Medals to diving knitters to last minute clutch victories, the Olympics delivered this year with interesting stories and phenomenal performances!

Episode #347: "Passing the Torch" at Missouri State University In this episode of our leadership transition series, we focused on Missouri State University's (MSU) Clif Smart, the recently retired president, and Dr. Richard "Biff" Williams, who has taken the helm as the new president. Our guests offered valuable insights into this crucial role and its impact on our community, along with the transition to Conference USA. We were also honored to have contributions from former (MSU) president Mike Nietzel and Senator Roy Blunt, who joined us in reflecting on Clif's success and looking ahead to Biff's accomplishments. Guests: Clif Smart and Dr. Biff Williams

In this episode (#346): We host the incredibly athletic and talented Ozark Lunkers football star, Matt Rush, and celebrate his football career and how he continues to wow fans on the field. We talk Arena Football 101, strategy, training techniques, and motivation heading into to the playoffs. My thanks to my guest for his insights and perspective!

In this episode (#345): Pete Steinberg joins us, a former U.S., international, and Olympic sports coach and commentator. He led the USA Women's Rugby Team to two World Cups and the Rio Olympics and has coached rugby teams to 11 National Championships. Pete is President of Innovative Thought, where he supports clients in the areas of innovation, leadership, strategic planning, marketing, recruiting, and organizational development. Pete is the author of Leadership Shock: Using Authenticity to Navigate the Hidden Dangers of Career Success. We appreciate Pete sharing his perspective with us! Guests: Pete Steinberg

In this episode (#344): Missouri State University's Softball Coach Holly Hesse retires after an incredible hall of fame career with a mile long list of accolades and is passing the reins to assistant coach Kasey Griffith. Coach Griffith brings in a wealth of experience in the sport of softball and has an inspired vision for the program. My thanks to both coaches for sharing their perspectives on their coaching paths and philosophy of leading a collegiate program. Guests: Holly Hesse, Kasey Griffith

In this episode (#343): Coach Shane Matzen joins us to discuss his new book, Coaching, Is It Worth It? (ABSOLUTELY) and shares his process and energy for the stories and anecdotes that he pieces together from his time as a coach and athletic director, along with his current career in the sport of golf. To order his book, visit Amazon: ORDER BOOK

In this episode (#342): Retiring, and highly decorated, Missouri State University head baseball coach Keith Guttin talks about his 42-year career and passing on the legacy of the program to new head coach, and former player and assistant, Joey Hawkins. Coach Hawkins shares about taking his influence from Coach G, his time at Missouri State, playing professionally, and assistant coaching to develop a leadership style ready to lead the Bears baseball program as its 3rd head coach in program history. My thanks to both these coaches for sharing their perspective on what it takes to lead a successful program. Guests: Keith Guttin, Joey Hawkins

In this episode (#341): We catch up with my favorite-and let's face it-most knowledgeable St. Louis Cardinals correspondent, Don Louzader and find out what the redbirds have been up to this season. My Royals correspondent, Ethan Bryan, was unavailable, so in true (what used to only be) American League form, I called in a DH! Loren Broaddus joined us to talk Royals and read some of his baseball poetry. Check out his book of poetry, Joe DiMaggio Moves Like Liquid Light HERE. Guests: Don Louzader and Loren Broaddus

In this episode (#340): We celebrated the upcoming induction into the Springfield Area Sports Hall of Fame for the Era of Excellence: Dick Birmingham's Era of Hillcrest Baseball. This legendary program boasts incredible numbers, memorable stories, and inspiring coaches and athletes. Guests: Mike Keltner, Tim Blasi, and Mike Snodgrass

In this episode (#339): This episode covers the roster release of the nominees of the Missouri Sports Hall of Fame's Sports Commission Awards which will be celebrated on June 18, 2024. Kary Booher discussed the nominees, plus the specialty awards that will be recognized. For more information visit mosportshalloffame.com. We also discussed, with studio producer Logan Weber, a variety of sports topics going on right now including Hurley NOT going to the Lakers, Clark NOT playing in Paris, MMA fighting, and the USA professional Cricket team (that's right!). Guest: Kary Booher

In this episode (#338): On this episode, we promote the 1st annual Western Missouri Coaches Fighting Cancer multi-sport coaching clinic. Steering committee and founding members Bob Coffey, Trish Marsh, and Gary Pendergraft join us to talk about the line up and mission of this event. Visit wemocfc.com for more information, to sign up, or to donate to the cause. These coaches are uniting coaches from all sports to fight a cause near and dear to all our hearts. Thank you to my guests for using their platforms for bringing awareness and resources to the fight against cancer. Guests: Bob Coffey, Trish Marsh, Gary Pendergraft

In this episode (#337): This week we visit with Women Basketball Coaches Association's Hall of Fame coach, Sherri Coale. Her successful run as the coach at the University of Oklahoma for 25 years left her with multiple accolades and accomplishments, but more importantly memories and relationships that impacted her for a lifetime. She is a coach, a writer, a motivational speaker, a family woman, and an all-around amazing person. I so enjoyed my conversation with the talented Coach Sherri Coale, enjoy! Guest: Coach Sherri Coale

In this episode (#336): Officiating is a valued and necessary role in competition. We need more officials and we need officials to be trained and mentored along the way. We encourage you to officiate any sport that draws you in, but if football is the one drawing you, June 30 is the start of your new officiating career! Ready to start? Dan Murphy can answer your questions. (417) 849-7367, murphyd7@sbcglobal.net. Being a part of the game, a team, staying in shape, and providing a valuable role in the world of sports is a great reason to put on the stripes. Thank you to my guests for sharing their perspective: Big 10 Referee, Ron Snodgrass, Referee Gary Hurst, and Referee and Coordinator Dan Murphy.

In this episode (#335): Bring it on! My guests are part of an emerging sport in the country, girls flag football! Coach Dustin Baldwin (Nixa, Mo High School) and players Jessie Nelson and Brooke Chandler join us to discuss flag football and the growing popularity of this sport and how their first season has gone. Pay attention, this is one to listen to and learn! Guest: Dustin Baldwin, Jessie Nelson, Brooke Chandler

In this episode (#334): From champion player to head coach, Ellie Burger continues to make her mark on Missouri State University's women's tennis program. A former three-time All-Conference player, she took over the Division I program two years ago and is making strides with the players and the program. Using a player's mentality of a high work ethic and skill development, Coach Burger is improving the program each year. Keep an eye on this program and coach, both are headed for a big stage! Guest: Ellie Burger