Athletor Podcast with Mike Mal

In this episode of the Athletor Podcast, Utah Valley head coach Adam Hall sits down to discuss his transition into leading the Wolverines and the lessons he's carrying over from years of competing and coaching. Hall talks about what he expects from his athletes—focusing on effort, discipline, and doing the small things right—as he works to build a strong foundation for Utah Valley Wrestling.The conversation dives into the challenges of establishing a program identity in the Big 12, how to balance the demands of coaching with developing athletes on and off the mat, and why accountability and culture are at the core of long-term success. Hall also shares insight into recruiting, adapting to the evolving NIL landscape, and what it takes to compete against powerhouse programs.

Episode 134 of the Athletor Podcast features Teyon Ware, Head Coach at Northern Colorado. Ware dives into his transition into the head coaching role, outlining the challenges, responsibilities, and excitement that come with leading a Division I program. He explains what it means to set a standard for his team and how he expects athletes to uphold the brand both on and off the mat.From culture-building to accountability, Ware stresses the importance of discipline, consistency, and doing the small things right. He shares his vision for Northern Colorado wrestling, his approach to developing athletes, and what it takes to move a program forward in today's landscape.

On Episode 133 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Lee Pritts, Assistant Coach at Arizona State University. Known for his energy, passion, and relentless work ethic, Pritts shares what it takes to build culture inside a top Division I program while staying connected to the athletes on a personal level.We dive into his journey through coaching, his philosophy on recruiting, and the evolution of the sport with NIL, the transfer portal, and the growing spotlight on wrestling. Pritts also breaks down what makes Arizona State unique, the challenges of staying competitive at the highest level, and why he still thrives on being in the wrestling room every day.

In this episode of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Kenny Monday, Head Coach at Morgan State University. Monday shares his coaching journey, the challenges and opportunities of building the Morgan State program, and what it takes to develop athletes both on and off the mat.We also dive into culture, recruiting, and the vision for wrestling at Morgan State as they continue to grow the program and compete at the highest level.

Pitt Associate Coach Drew Headlee joins the show to talk about his journey from standout competitor to leading one of the nation's top wrestling programs. He shares insights on developing athletes, building trust, and adapting to the constantly evolving college wrestling landscape.We dive into topics like recruiting philosophies, training adjustments, and what it takes to prepare wrestlers for success at the highest level. Drew also reflects on his own competitive career and the lessons that continue to shape his coaching approach today.

On Episode 130 of the Athletor Podcast, we're joined by Nick Brascetta, Associate Head Coach at the University of Maryland. Brascetta dives into the evolving responsibilities of an associate head coach, how the role shifts from program to program, and what leadership looks like at the Power Five level.We also cover Maryland's developmental strategy, building buy-in from athletes, and how Brascetta balances recruiting, coaching, and culture-building. If you're looking for insights into what it really takes to elevate a Big Ten wrestling program, this one's a must-listen.

In Episode 129 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Kyle Ruschell, Head Coach at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Kyle shares his journey from a standout athlete in Kentucky to leading a D1 program in the heart of the South. He talks about the lessons he's taken from his time at Wisconsin, how he's building a strong culture at UTC, and what it takes to recruit and develop talent in a non-traditional wrestling region.We also get into the importance of authenticity in coaching, the power of consistency, and the challenges that come with growing a program outside the Big Ten spotlight. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or wrestling fan, this conversation offers real insight into what it takes to build something special from the ground up.

Episode #128 of the Athletor Podcast features Kellen Russell, Associate Head Coach at Cornell University. Kellen sits down with Mike Mal to talk through his coaching journey, what it's like leading one of the top wrestling programs in the country, and how the evolving NCAA landscape is affecting the sport. From navigating recruiting challenges to building culture in a high-performance room, Kellen shares valuable insight into what makes a championship-level program thrive.They also dig into the details of developing young athletes, coaching philosophies that go beyond the mat, and what sets Cornell apart in the Ivy League and nationally. Whether you're a coach, parent, or athlete, this episode offers a rare look into the mindset behind one of college wrestling's sharpest minds.

On this episode of the Athletor Podcast, we're joined by two-time NCAA Champion Jordan Oliver, a name that's echoed across wrestling's Mount Rushmore conversations. Jordan dives deep into his journey through collegiate and freestyle wrestling, reflecting on the mindset, struggles, and breakthroughs that defined his legendary career. From being immortalized by peers like Mario Mason to discussing what separates the greats from the elite, this conversation is as real and raw as the sport itself.Whether you're an aspiring wrestler or a fan of greatness, Jordan brings perspective, humility, and intensity that speaks volumes. Tune in for stories you've never heard, insights you didn't expect, and a behind-the-scenes look at the life of a champion who continues to inspire generations.

In episode 126 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Luke Becker, Head Assistant Coach at the University of Minnesota. Becker shares what life looks like during the off-season, including how he balances recruiting, summer training, and catching a few waves behind a boat. From Big Ten battles to bonding with athletes, Becker opens up about his coaching philosophy and the Gophers' mindset heading into the season.We also dive into his thoughts on building relationships with athletes, staying grounded through decades of experience in the sport, and why he's still hungry to help push Minnesota Wrestling forward.

In episode 126 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Luke Becker, Head Assistant Coach at the University of Minnesota. Becker shares what life looks like during the off-season, including how he balances recruiting, summer training, and catching a few waves behind a boat. From Big Ten battles to bonding with athletes, Becker opens up about his coaching philosophy and the Gophers' mindset heading into the season.We also dive into his thoughts on building relationships with athletes, staying grounded through decades of experience in the sport, and why he's still hungry to help push Minnesota Wrestling forward.

Bellarmine Head Coach Ned Shuck joins the Athletor Podcast to talk about the challenges and mindset behind building a Division I program from the ground up. From leaving West Point to leading Bellarmine's young squad, Shuck shares what it's like to build a culture, navigate NCAA wrestling's evolving landscape, and fight for relevance in a resource-limited environment.We also dig into what motivates him, how he's developed leadership from day one, and why creating belief and identity in a new team matters more than anything else.

Episode 124 of the Athletor Podcast features Zach Tanelli, Associate Head Coach at Virginia Tech. In this conversation, Zach reflects on his transition from head coach at an Ivy League school to joining the Hokies program, and why that move made perfect sense inside the wrestling world. He opens up about his mindset, growth as a coach, and how family, culture, and competitive alignment all played a role.We also get into how high-level decisions shape a career, what young athletes should look for in a college program, and how building trust and relationships off the mat often matters just as much as winning on it.

In Episode 123 of the Athletor Podcast, Mike Mal sits down with Mario Mason—former wrestling standout and founder of Shot Docs. From dominating on the mat at Fargo to carving out a business in the media space, Mario shares how he transitioned from athlete to entrepreneur. They dive into the lessons wrestling taught him about resilience, branding, and building something that lasts beyond competition.Whether you're an athlete thinking about life after sports or a creative looking to find your lane, this conversation is packed with insights on staying true to your roots while leveling up.

In episode 122 of the Athletor Podcast, Cal Poly Head Coach Joe Sioredas returns to talk about the current landscape of NCAA wrestling and what it takes to survive in it. Joe breaks down how the same powerhouse programs still dominate, but the rules of engagement have shifted. From NIL to transfer culture, he shares why “you adapt or you die” isn't just a catchphrase—it's the reality of staying competitive.Joe also dives into the emotional toll of developing overlooked athletes into All-Americans, only to lose them late in their careers. He talks about the importance of having conversations with athletes, why honor still matters, and how resources dictate results. From fundraising to roster integrity, this episode is a real look at the behind-the-scenes battles college coaches are facing today.

In episode 121 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Chuck Kearney, Head Coach at the University of Saint Mary, to explore the evolution of wrestling through his unique lens—from his roots in Pendleton, Oregon, to building programs at the NAIA level. Chuck reflects on his time at Oregon State, where the structure of practice was almost academic in its discipline, and contrasts that with the flexibility and challenges of coaching in today's collegiate landscape.We dig into the growing concerns around roster limits, shrinking opportunities for athletes, and the shifting value of scholarships vs. NIL. Chuck doesn't hold back on what he sees as threats to the sport's future—and how programs like his are adapting. We wrap with rapid-fire takes on wrestling shoes, book recs, and who makes Chuck's all-time Mount Rushmore.

In Episode 120 of the Athletor Podcast, Nebraska Associate Head Coach Bryan Snyder joins us to break down how the Huskers are navigating NIL, the transfer portal, and athlete development on their own terms. From building a system that rewards growth to defining what “the right guy” really looks like, Bryan gives a behind-the-scenes look at how Nebraska is setting a new standard.We talk about what makes a recruit stand out, the structure behind individual athlete plans, and why rest might be one of the toughest decisions in high-level wrestling. This one's all about building sustainable success—from the ground up.

On episode 118 of the Athletor Podcast, comedian and former wrestler Greg Warren joins Mike Mal to break down the surprising connection between wrestling and stand-up comedy. Greg shares how the discipline and repetition of learning a wrestling move—like the cheap tilt—mirrors the process of building a joke from scratch. He also talks about how his new comedy special The Champ came together over two years, how he digs into old material to spark new ideas, and why he still trusts the early laughs—even if they're just one person in the back of the room.This one's a deep dive into mindset, performance, and how wrestling continues to shape Greg's approach to creativity, persistence, and storytelling.

Parker Keckeisen joins the Athletor Podcast fresh off the US Open to talk about what it's like competing against the best in the world. He breaks down key moments from his match with Kyle Dake, explains why he prefers the pace of the US Open over the NCAA Tournament, and reflects on how loyalty and values shaped his decision to stay at UNI despite big NIL offers.We also dive into the current state of NCAA wrestling, NIL's impact, and the challenges of staying grounded in a system that's rapidly evolving. Parker shares his mindset as he transitions to the senior level, why this past season was uniquely difficult, and how he stays focused on growth over hype.

-

In Episode 116 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with UNC Associate Head Coach Tony Ramos—a 3x U.S. Open Champion and 2x World Team Member—to talk about what growth looks like off the mat. From running the business side of a college wrestling program to securing major donors and building strong alumni networks, Tony breaks down how coaching today involves way more than just practice plans.We also dig into the evolving NCAA landscape, including roster cap changes, revenue sharing, and the realities of the transfer portal. Plus, Tony shares how his priorities would shift if he were leading a program like Illinois—and why getting support from fans and alumni is just as important as wins on the mat.

On Episode 115 of the Athletor Podcast, we're joined by Missouri assistant coach Kendrick Maple to talk about the state of college wrestling in the NIL and portal era. Maple opens up about the realities of re-recruiting your own athletes each year, why seeing Keegan O'Toole stay at Mizzou meant a lot to the team, and how the transfer landscape has become the wild west—with big money chasing unproven talent.We also dive into how Mizzou develops athletes mentally and physically, the structure behind their success, and how character matters just as much as wins when it comes to recruiting. From NIL updates to roster cap challenges, weight management, and the future of coaching, Kendrick brings a grounded, thoughtful look at what it really takes to build a winning program today.

In Episode 114 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Adam Fellers—a wrestling coach and finance expert—to talk about the intersection of business and wrestling. Adam breaks down why so many coaches lack the business acumen needed to grow and sustain successful programs, and why waiting for outside help isn't a winning strategy. We also analyze key financial metrics, like fundraising and staff investment, and how they correlate with on-the-mat success at the Division I level.Beyond the numbers, Adam shares insights on how wrestling programs can adopt a more structured, KPI-driven approach to athlete development. If he had the power to change the NCAA system, what would he do? We get into that, plus some rapid-fire fun, including his top book recommendation, Mount Rushmore picks, and more. If you're interested in the future of wrestling from both a competitive and financial standpoint, this is an episode you won't want to miss!

In Episode 113 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Grant Leeth, head club wrestling coach at Tarleton State NCWA and founder of Heilung Shoes, to talk about what it takes to build a college wrestling program from scratch. When Grant arrived in Texas in late 2023, there was no wrestling room, no athletes, and no alumni base—just a vision. He walks us through the challenges of getting administrative buy-in, the role of fundraising, and the foundation working to bring college wrestling to Texas.We also discuss the recruiting process, how Texas remains an under-recruited state, and Tarleton's approach to keeping talent in-state. Grant shares lessons learned in his first year, the struggles of delegation, and why winning an NCWA title isn't the ultimate goal—building a sustainable Division I program is. If you're interested in the future of college wrestling, coaching, or sports entrepreneurship, this is an episode you won't want to miss!

In episode 112 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Joe Russell, Assistant Coach for USA Wrestling, to discuss the evolving landscape of wrestling, from grassroots to international success. Joe shares his thoughts on the importance of RTCs, how USA Wrestling is adapting to the impact of NIL, and what the future of the sport might look like. He also dives into coaching strategies, working with athletes, and the challenges of dealing with officials, along with some personal insights into his experiences traveling the world. Tune in for an in-depth conversation on the present and future of USA Wrestling.

In this episode of the Athletor Podcast, we chat with Vito Arujau, a 1x World Champion and 2x NCAA Champion, about his journey to success in wrestling. Vito shares his experience growing up in New York after immigrating from Belarus, his early struggles with motivation, and how his mindset shifted as he took ownership of his wrestling development. We also discuss his relationship with Yianni Diakomihalis, the challenges of weight management, and how his focus on sports psychology has shaped his career. Tune in for insights on Vito's growth, his approach to competition, and what the future holds for him in wrestling.

In this episode of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Mark Muñoz, Associate Head Coach at Cal Baptist University, as he shares his journey from wrestling to MMA. We discuss his time at Oklahoma State and the surprising connection between California wrestling and Stillwater, Oklahoma. Mark opens up about his transition from wrestling to UFC, recounting a pivotal moment when he was thrown into a sparring session with Randy Couture. He also talks about his coaching philosophy at CBU, emphasizing the importance of mentality, community, and culture in building a successful program. Tune in for a deep dive into Mark's unique journey and his thoughts on the future of wrestling and MMA.

In episode 109 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Dave Bell, Head Coach at a public school wrestling program, to discuss his journey from coaching at Bergen Catholic to taking over a public school program. Dave shares his insights on building a championship-caliber team, managing resources, and how he navigated the transition from a private school to a public one. We dive into the importance of sustained success, overcoming challenges, and his approach to fundraising, recruiting, and team culture. Additionally, Dave talks about the coaching staff that helped build his program and how he approaches developing athletes both on and off the mat.

In episode #108 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Gabe Arnold, a standout wrestler with a unique journey. Gabe shares the story of how he first stepped onto the mats at just five years old, following in his brother's footsteps, and how he got hooked on wrestling despite early struggles. We dive into his high school career, discussing his time at Wyoming Seminary, the transition to living away from home, and the lessons he learned along the way. Gabe opens up about the impact of his father's philosophy on his approach to the sport, his recruiting process, and the mindset required to reach his goals. Plus, we discuss the upcoming Iowa vs. OSU dual and Gabe's thoughts on mental health in wrestling. Tune in for insights into the life of an elite wrestler and coach.

In episode 107 of the Athletor Podcast, host Mike Malinconico sits down with Keith Gavin, the head coach of Pitt Wrestling, to discuss his approach to building a wrestling program from the ground up. They dive into recruiting strategies, the culture at Pitt, and how NIL is constantly changing the landscape of college sports. Keith also shares how he prepares his athletes for success, offering a unique insight into his own journey and the importance of adaptability, discipline, and passion for the sport.Whether you're a coach, athlete, or wrestling fan, this episode gives a behind-the-scenes look at the dynamic and evolving world of collegiate wrestling.

In episode 106 of the Athletor Podcast, host Mike Malinconico chats with Tim Flynn, head coach at West Virginia University, about the state of the Mountaineers' wrestling program. Flynn shares insights on their recruiting strategies, including how they identify wrestlers with "Mountaineer potential," and reflects on his past experience at Edinboro. They dive into the challenges and opportunities facing college wrestling today, from roster caps to NIL, and explore what it takes to build a successful program at a school like WVU. Flynn also discusses his approach to fundraising and how creating a passionate fan base is crucial for supporting a thriving wrestling program.

In this episode of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Trent Hidlay of NC State Wrestling to explore his journey from collegiate wrestling to his current aspirations in the sport. Trent discusses the challenges of NCAA wrestling, including NIL and roster limits, and shares insights on the current state of the sport. We also dive into his training regimen as he gears up for the 2028 Olympics and how his approach to film study and fundamentals keeps him at the top of his game. Plus, Trent talks about his bond with his brother Hayden and their shared wrestling legacy.

In this episode of the Athletor Podcast, Hall of Fame writer, broadcaster, announcer, and podcaster Jason Bryant joins Mike Malinconico to discuss key issues surrounding the sport of wrestling. Jason shares his insights on marketing wrestling and the struggles the sport faces with fan retention, citing historical challenges and the slow adoption of women's wrestling. He also dives into the need for more fan engagement and explains how rivalries, consistency, and better event presentation could help elevate wrestling's visibility. The conversation also touches on the impact of weight management, recruitment, and the strategies necessary for the sport to evolve moving forward. Don't miss this fascinating discussion about the future of wrestling and the ways we can improve the fan experience.

In episode 103 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Coleman Scott, a key figure in the wrestling world and a passionate advocate for the sport's future. Currently, Coleman is focused on building "The Farm," an ambitious wrestling training facility that promises to revolutionize the development of young athletes. In this episode, Coleman talks about the journey behind the project, his decision to draw inspiration from other successful models, and the process of working with local contractors in the Oklahoma wrestling community. He also reflects on the challenges he faced in the aftermath of his coaching transition and his renewed focus on helping the next generation of wrestlers.

In episode 102, Cyler Sanderson gives us a unique look into growing up in the legendary Sanderson household, where the focus was always on effort, growth, and sportsmanship rather than just winning. He reflects on his father's influence, their positive wrestling culture, and how it shaped his approach to coaching at the Sanderson Wrestling Academy. We also explore the challenges facing wrestling at the collegiate level, from NIL to potential program cuts, and how these changes could reshape the sport. Cyler dives into the rise of high school and youth wrestling clubs, explaining why they're becoming the foundation of the sport. He shares insights into his coaching philosophy, emphasizing the importance of long-term development, competition, and creating a vision for athletes' growth over the years.

In Episode 101 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with U23 World Champion Sage Mortimer to discuss her journey to the top of the wrestling world. Sage dives into her mindset during her stunning comeback at the U23 World Championships, her approach to overcoming mental and technical barriers, and the philosophy that helped her turn challenges into growth opportunities. From her unique origin story of wrestling boys in Utah to her dominance on the international stage, Sage offers insights into how she has continuously evolved as a competitor. We also explore Sage's transition from high school to collegiate wrestling, her focus on refining her technique, and how she balances the intensity of training with the need for personal growth. With her sights set on the 2028 Olympics, Sage shares how she's preparing to face the best in the world, including her thoughts on the elite competition at 50kg. This episode is packed with lessons on resilience, adaptability, and the relentless pursuit of excellence.

In Episode 100 of the Athletor Podcast, Ohio State Head Coach Tom Ryan joins us to dive into the evolving landscape of college wrestling. From the challenges of NIL and roster caps to the importance of trust, leadership, and values, Tom provides a unique perspective on what it takes to build a successful program. He also shares his thoughts on the Big Ten's new commissioner, the critical need for a dual meet championship, and how the sport can navigate its most pressing issues. We also discuss the decisions behind redshirting top athletes like Rocco Welch, the balancing act of freedom and accountability for student-athletes, and the importance of fundraising to expand resources. Whether you're a fan of the Buckeyes, a coach, or simply passionate about wrestling, this episode is packed with insights into the current state and future of the sport.

In Episode 099 of the Athletor Podcast, Olympic silver medalist and co-owner of Pinnacle Wrestling Club, Brandon Paulson, shares his philosophy on coaching and building a successful wrestling program. From the origins of Pinnacle's slogan, “Love the Fight,” to balancing basic techniques with non-conventional strategies, Paulson offers insights into how his approach helps athletes thrive both on and off the mat. He also reflects on the challenges of starting and growing a wrestling club, the shifting landscape of NCAA wrestling, and how NIL and roster caps are influencing the sport's future. Paulson opens up about his personal experiences, including supporting his daughter's high-level gymnastics career and navigating fundraising for his club. Whether discussing the importance of hard work, the value of creating a wrestling “show,” or the lessons he'd apply if starting over, this episode is a must-listen for wrestling enthusiasts, coaches, and athletes.

In this episode, we sit down with Patrick Brucki, Assistant Coach at Stanford and 2x NCAA All-American. Patrick shares his journey from the south side of Chicago to Princeton, navigating the challenges of balancing an Ivy League education and collegiate wrestling, and eventually finishing his career at Michigan. He opens up about the hard lessons he learned about overtraining, his transition into coaching, and the fulfillment he finds in helping athletes achieve their goals. We explore the broader themes of identity in wrestling, how athletes can prepare for life after competition, and the evolving landscape of club coaching. Patrick also offers valuable advice for aspiring club owners, emphasizing the importance of capital and mentorship. Whether you're a wrestler, coach, or fan, this episode delivers insights into the mindset and dedication it takes to succeed both on and off the mat.

In episode 097 of the Athletor Podcast, Mike Mal sits down with Rich Bender, Executive Director of USA Wrestling, to explore the past, present, and future of the sport. Rich shares insights from his journey, starting as an intern in 1988 to becoming one of the most influential figures in wrestling. From infrastructure improvements to the role of RTCs and NIL's impact, Rich breaks down the dynamics shaping wrestling at both collegiate and international levels. This conversation touches on the evolution of NCAA wrestling, strategies for growing the sport, and the importance of aligning efforts across institutions. Rich also reflects on the legacy of icons like John Smith and offers a visionary take on how USA Wrestling is adapting to meet the needs of the next generation of athletes. Whether you're a fan or deeply involved in the sport, this episode provides a unique perspective on wrestling's trajectory.

In episode 096 of the Athletor Podcast, Luka Wick, standout wrestler at Cal Poly, joins the show to share his journey from initially disliking the sport to becoming one of wrestling's top competitors. Luka opens up about his early struggles, the pivotal moments that sparked his passion in middle school, and the lessons learned from wrestling alongside his brothers, Zander and Evan. He reflects on his high school experiences, including intense practices and the pressure of competing in California's grueling state tournament. We also dive into Luka's approach to training, weight management, and his philosophy on competition. Additionally, Luka discusses his role as an ambassador for Rudis, the impact of NIL deals on his career, and how wrestlers can successfully navigate partnerships in this evolving landscape. Packed with insight and inspiration, this episode is a must-listen for wrestling fans and athletes alike.

In this episode of the Athletor Podcast, Hayden Hidlay, 5x NCAA All-American and Assistant Coach at Stanford, shares his journey from growing up in a sports-loving family in central Pennsylvania to becoming one of wrestling's top competitors. Hayden reflects on the pivotal role of his youth coach Ian, the fundamentals that shaped his style, and how a mat in the basement transformed his family into a wrestling powerhouse. We also explore Hayden's college career, including his battles with NCAA blue blood programs and his legendary matches against Jason Nolf. Now coaching at Stanford, Hayden discusses the cultural differences between NC State and Stanford, recruiting challenges, and building a winning mindset in athletes. Don't miss this episode filled with unique insights and personal stories from one of wrestling's most accomplished athletes.

In episode 94 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Erin Sparrold, a sports nutritionist with over a decade of experience working with wrestlers, and Lori Ayres, a trailblazer in women's wrestling as co-founder of DI Women's Wrestling and Executive Director of the California RTC. Together, they dive into the unique nutritional needs and challenges female wrestlers face, from managing energy availability to maintaining bone density and hormonal health. The discussion highlights critical insights into weight class selection, macro balancing, and the impact of menstrual cycles on training and performance. Erin and Lori also explore the symptoms of under-fueling and strategies to promote long-term health and success for female athletes. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or parent, this episode provides essential takeaways for supporting wrestlers on and off the mat.

In Episode 093 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Cary Kolat, Head Coach at the United States Naval Academy, to explore the unique challenges and opportunities of coaching at a service academy compared to a traditional college program. Kolat shares his insights on recruiting high-caliber student-athletes who excel in academics, athletics, and leadership, while navigating the realities of modern NCAA wrestling, including NIL, the transfer portal, and the sustainability of funding in college athletics. Kolat also dives into the evolution of U.S. wrestling, reflecting on how RTCs, high-level youth clubs, and changes in the Ivy League have elevated the sport's competitiveness. From his experiences with legends like Dave Schultz to the value of Navy's unparalleled post-graduation opportunities, this episode provides a comprehensive look at wrestling's past, present, and future. Don't miss this thoughtful and candid conversation with one of the sport's most respected coaches.

In this episode of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Alex Marinelli, head coach at Hawkeye Wrestling Academy and 4x All-American. Alex shares his journey from competing at the senior level to coaching the next generation, discussing the unique challenges and joys of working with youth wrestlers. He talks about transitioning from the competitive environment of Iowa to building a sustainable and high-level youth program, instilling the basics in young athletes, and the importance of patience in teaching foundational skills. We also dive into the realities of youth wrestling in 2024, including the pressures young athletes face, burnout, and the delicate balance of managing over-enthusiastic parents. Alex reflects on how his own influences shaped his coaching philosophy and offers insights on fostering a lifelong passion for the sport. If you're a coach, parent, or wrestling enthusiast, this episode provides a fresh perspective on youth development in wrestling.

In this episode of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Steve Garland, head coach of the University of Virginia wrestling program, as he shares his journey from athlete to coach and reflects on the evolving challenges in college athletics. Steve opens up about how wrestling shaped his life, teaching him discipline and purpose, and how he aims to instill those same values in his athletes at UVA. He also tackles complex issues like the addictive nature of competitive sports, balancing a strong work ethic with a healthy mindset, and the importance of finding athletes who are driven by the right “why.” Steve provides a candid look at the realities of recruiting and developing wrestlers who fit UVA's demanding academic and athletic culture. He shares his thoughts on the changing landscape of college athletics, the financial challenges wrestling programs face, and the crucial role of community support and engagement in sustaining the sport. This episode offers invaluable insights for athletes, coaches, and anyone invested in the future of college wrestling.

In this episode of the Athletor Podcast, we talk with Sean Gray, assistant coach at Stanford University and former assistant coach at Princeton, about the exciting momentum behind Stanford Wrestling. Sean dives into the team's mission to compete for a national championship, navigating a major transition from the East Coast to the Bay Area, and the unique talent mix in Stanford's wrestling room. We explore how he balances creativity with discipline, helping athletes like Hunter Garvin control the chaos in their wrestling styles. Sean also shares his passion for youth wrestling, the importance of building a community-driven league in the Bay Area, and the lessons learned from Stanford's fight to preserve its wrestling program. Whether it's developing athletes or thinking like a startup, Sean emphasizes the need for long-term vision, community engagement, and innovative fundraising to sustain success in an evolving college athletics landscape.

In this episode of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Frank Popolizio, founder and head coach at Journeymen Wrestling. Frank shares the origin story of the Journeymen events, from his early inspirations under John and Pat Smith at Oklahoma State to building one of the most influential wrestling event series in the U.S. We dive into how he grew from knowing little about recruiting and competition to developing innovative tournaments like the Northeast Duals and Journeymen Fall Classic. Frank also opens up about the challenges of leadership—balancing vision with execution, the mental toll of entrepreneurship, and why fostering meaningful competition is essential at every level. Tune in as we explore the future of wrestling events, non-conference dual meets, and the impact of wrestling programs that run like businesses.

In episode 088 of the Athletor Podcast, Ty Walz, Assistant Coach at Brown University, shares his experiences transitioning from coaching at a large university to a smaller one like Brown. He discusses the unique challenges and opportunities that come with coaching in the Ivy League, including the pros and cons of recruiting and developing athletes in a highly academic environment. Ty also highlights how his approach to identifying recruits with untapped potential has evolved, and what it's like working alongside head coach Jordan Leen to elevate Brown's wrestling program. If you're curious about the balance between athletics and academics at the Ivy League level, this episode offers valuable insights.

Join us in episode 087 of the Athletor Podcast as we sit down with wrestling influencer Hayden Ancheta, who has built a dedicated following of over 39,000 on Instagram and 10,000 on YouTube while wrestling at San Francisco State University. In this episode, Hayden shares his origin story and what ignited his passion for wrestling. He reflects on the influence of his high school coach, Erik Duus, and the unique relationship Duus had with the legendary Dave Schultz. We also explore Japan's impressive performance on the world stage and their distinctive approach to wrestling. Hayden opens up about his journey into content creation and discusses the challenges of balancing life as a student-athlete with his passion for producing engaging wrestling content.

In this episode of the Athletor Podcast, we welcome Bryan Medlin, Director of Ops at the University of Illinois and Head Coach of the Illinois RTC. Bryan shares his insights on the vibrant wrestling culture in Ossetia. He discusses the common misconceptions surrounding wrestling and the challenges of navigating the current landscape of the sport. Additionally, Bryan provides valuable advice for coaches and parents on fostering a love for wrestling in young athletes, emphasizing the importance of hard work and setting attainable goals. Tune in for a deep dive into the world of wrestling and the unique perspectives Bryan brings from his experiences.