Athletor Podcast with Mike Mal

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.

In episode 085 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Alex Clemsen, head coach of the University of Maryland wrestling program. Coach Clemsen shares insights into the challenges and rewards of running a college wrestling program, including the critical role of fundraising and how he manages his team alongside assistant coach Nick Brascetta. We also discuss the impact of recent scoring rule changes on Maryland's season, as well as the age-old topic of weight cutting—how it's handled in his program and its effect on performance.

Join us for episode 084 of the Athletor Podcast with Michael Kemerer, now Assistant Coach at Minnesota and a 5x NCAA All American. Michael dives into his recent career transition to coaching at Minnesota, reflecting on his coaching experience at Brown University. He dispels common misconceptions about wrestling at Iowa and shares insights from his formative years at Young Guns Wrestling Club under the mentorship of Jody Strittmatter. Don't miss Michael's perspectives on how his coaching journey has shaped his approach to wrestling.

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Mocco, Head Coach of Mocco Wrestling Academy, Olympian, 2x NCAA Champion, and 4x NCAA All-American. Steve shares insights into his transition from being a competitive wrestler to becoming a coach and what that journey has taught him. We delve into the origins of the famous “Mocco Footsweep” and how it became a signature move. Steve also discusses the structure of his practice sessions, reflecting on his time with the legendary Blair wrestling teams and how those experiences shaped his approach to coaching. You'll will also hear about Steve's remarkable college career, his experiences at the Olympic Games, and the mindset required to compete at the highest levels. Whether you're a wrestling enthusiast or a coach looking for inspiration, this episode offers valuable lessons from one of the sport's greats.

In this episode, we sit down with Tony Robie, Head Coach of Virginia Tech Wrestling, to explore the ever-changing landscape of college wrestling. Tony provides insight into the recent changes in NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) and how they impact programs like Virginia Tech. He also discusses strategies for mid-major programs to secure their future and avoid the risk of being dropped. We dive into the passionate wrestling culture in Blacksburg, VA, and the unwavering support of Virginia Tech wrestling fans. Tony also shares his experiences coaching standout wrestlers Mekhi Lewis and Caleb Henson, highlighting their contrasting styles and the unique approaches needed to coach each athlete effectively. Plus, Tony reveals key recruiting red flags that coaches should watch for. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone involved in or passionate about the sport of wrestling.

In episode 081 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Mike Palazzo, the head coach at Lake Highland Prep and recipient of the 2017 NHSCA Coach of the Year and 2016 Flo Wrestling Coach of the Year awards. Mike shares his insights on freestyle and Greco-Roman wrestling, discussing how his focus on these styles has evolved in recent years and the reasons behind this shift. We also delve into the impact of new scoring rules on his coaching tactics and strategies for his wrestlers. Mike explains how his goals have expanded beyond just winning state titles, emphasizing the broader objectives for his team. Additionally, he sheds light on the resources and fundraising efforts necessary to support the extensive travel requirements of the Lake Highland Prep wrestling program during their season. This episode offers a comprehensive look at the strategies and philosophies of a highly successful high school wrestling coach.

In episode 080 of the Athletor Podcast, we feature Zach Even-Esh, the OG strength coach and founder of Underground Strength Gym. Zach shares his origin story, revealing how his passion for sports performance training began and evolved over the years. We dive into the principles of training to build strength and power, discussing the differences between functional training and bodybuilding, and why functional training often yields better results. Zach also emphasizes the importance of customizing training to solve specific goals, such as building the confidence to execute a high-paced offense rather than just conserving energy. He highlights how effective training can be achieved without relying on advanced technology, focusing on practical and impactful methods. This episode is packed with valuable insights for anyone looking to enhance their training regimen and athletic performance.

In episode 079 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Chael Sonnen, media mogul, UFC superstar, and NCAA All-American. Chael shares his journey into the sport of wrestling, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced along the way. We also explore the controversial topic of dropping and starting new wrestling programs, with Chael offering his unique insights. The conversation takes an international turn as we talk about Olympic wrestling and the impact of Russia not competing. Chael gives his take on Gable Steveson's transition to the NFL and what it means for the wrestling community. Additionally, Chael recounts a hilarious story about his first encounter with the legendary John Smith, providing listeners with an entertaining and enlightening episode. Don't miss this engaging discussion with one of the most outspoken personalities in combat sports.

In episode 078 of the Athletor Podcast, host Mike Mal is joined by Brent Metcalf, Assistant Coach at Iowa State and 2X NCAA Champion. They discuss Brent's approach to preparing David Carr for the 2023/24 season, including the strategies that led to Carr's victory over Keegan O'Toole at the NCAA Tournament. Brent also shares insights into Iowa State University's recruiting approach and how they attract top talent to Ames. Additionally, listeners get a glimpse into the mindset Brent instills in the wrestling room and the expectations he has for his wrestlers on the mat. This episode provides an in-depth look at coaching philosophies and the competitive spirit driving success at Iowa State.

In this episode of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Chris "Chewy" Chionuma, the Associate Head Coach at Cal Poly. We dive into the intricacies of the recruiting process at Cal Poly and explore how the program's fundraising efforts are driving it towards self-sufficiency. Chewy shares invaluable advice for recruits and discusses how becoming a new dad has influenced his coaching philosophy. Additionally, we get a glimpse into Chewy's aspirations and whether he envisions himself as a future head coach of a Division I wrestling program. Tune in for an insightful conversation packed with practical tips and personal reflections from one of the leading figures in collegiate wrestling.

In episode 076 of the Athletor Podcast host Mike Mal sits down with Cody Brewer, Head Assistant Coach at Princeton, NCAA Champion, and 4x All-American. Cody shares insights into his experiences at various institutions, including Oklahoma, Virginia Tech, Northwestern, and now Princeton, highlighting the differences and challenges at each. He dives into weight management strategies for recruits and the importance of finding the right fit for athletes. Cody also discusses his admiration for Joe Dubuque's relentless work ethic and the competitive dynamics within the NCAA's second-best conference. The episode wraps up with an unexpected twist as a fire alarm goes off during the interview, adding an interesting end to their conversation.Join us for an engaging discussion on coaching, recruiting, and the unique journey of one of wrestling's notable coaches.

In episode 075 of the Athletor Podcast, host Mike Mal sits down with Doug Schwab, Head Coach at the University of Northern Iowa. They discuss the historic West Gym and its significance in building a strong emotional connection for recruits. Doug shares his experiences balancing administrative duties with hands-on coaching, providing a unique perspective on managing both aspects effectively. The conversation also covers NIL and UNI's innovative approach to staying competitive with other institutions. Additionally, Doug talks about Parker Keckeisen's development and what he needs to focus on to excel at the international level. This episode offers valuable insights into the challenges and strategies of collegiate wrestling coaching.

In episode 074 of the Athletor Podcast, host Mike Mal chats with Jesse Mendez, a 2x NCAA All-American and NCAA Champion. Jesse shares insights into his mindset and approach to wrestling, giving listeners a glimpse into what drives his success. He recounts his NCAA Championship match against Bo Bartlett and discusses the recruiting process that led him to Ohio State. Jesse also reveals the key changes from his freshman to sophomore year that helped him secure a national championship. Additionally, he talks about what the Ohio State team needs to do to compete with and beat Penn State, offering a strategic look at the future of the program.

In episode 073 of the Athletor Podcast, host Mike Mal sits down with Chris Ayres, the Head Coach at Stanford University. Chris shares his experience of moving across the country from Princeton to Stanford and dives into his unique system for recruiting top talent. He discusses whether it's more challenging to recruit athletes from the east coast compared to the west coast and offers valuable insights into what he wishes parents understood about the recruiting process. Additionally, Chris addresses the impact of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) on college sports, describing how it has introduced chaos for both coaches and administrators. This episode provides a comprehensive look at the intricacies of recruiting and the evolving landscape of college athletics.

In this episode of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Andrew Alirez, an NCAA Champion and 2x Big 12 Champion, to discuss his journey and insights into the world of wrestling. Andrew shares his experience with the transfer portal and the factors that ultimately led him to remain at Northern Colorado. He offers a candid look at what he learned about NIL through this process and how it has shaped his perspective. We also discuss the challenges Andrew faced with his weight cut to 65kg and its impact on his performance at the Olympic trials. He talks about his approach to taking an Olympic redshirt and his plans for the upcoming World Team Trials. Tune in to hear about the resilience, strategy, and dedication that drive one of wrestling's top athletes.

Join us for an insightful episode of the Athletor Podcast featuring Donny Pritzlaff, the Associate Coach at Rutgers, World Medalist, and 2x NCAA Champion. In this episode, Donny shares how Earnie Monaco influenced his approach to wrestling and discusses the balance between baseline technique and innovative "funk" moves. He opens up about the discipline that drove his success as both an athlete and coach, and how he manages expectations at the Jersey Mike's Arena. Plus, Donny reveals his surprising picks for the Mount Rushmore of wrestling and delves into the processes that have led to his remarkable career achievements. Tune in for a deep dive into the mind of one of wrestling's most respected figures, and learn about the strategies and mindset that have made Donny Pritzlaff a standout in the sport.

In Episode 070 of the Athletor Podcast, we are joined by Mason Parris, the 2024 Olympic Qualifier, NCAA Champion, 3x NCAA All-American, and 2023 World Bronze Medalist. Mason shares insights on his significant progress in wrestling, highlighting the pivotal moments and training methods that propelled his game to the next level. He discusses the coaches who had the most profound impact on his technique, particularly emphasizing how Coach Josh Churella and Kevin Jackson refined his methodical approach to wrestling. Mason recounts his most memorable victory, noting that winning the B1G title this past year cemented his belief in his ability to claim an NCAA title. He also shares his thoughts on the ideal traits for modern-day heavyweights and talks about the diverse, international atmosphere in the Michigan wrestling room, where the exchange of ideas and techniques enriches their training environment. This episode is a treasure trove of wisdom and experiences from one of wrestling's rising stars.

In Episode 069 of the Athletor Podcast, we welcome Rob Koll, the esteemed Head Coach at the University of North Carolina and former head coach at Stanford and Cornell. Rob discusses the dynamic 2024 coaching carousel and shares insights on David Taylor's influence. Reflecting on his second year at UNC, he offers a deep dive into his unique business mindset, exploring whether wrestling can achieve financial stability. Rob also reveals his strategy for engaging young wrestlers to create lifelong fans and explains his business-like approach to running a wrestling program, detailing how this philosophy has evolved throughout his career. We discuss the importance of event-driven fundraising, common pitfalls for young coaches, and the impact of NIL on the sport and his daily operations. This episode is packed with valuable insights for coaches and wrestling enthusiasts alike.

In Episode 068 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Mark Hall, Director of Operations at the University of Oklahoma, NCAA Champion, and Cadet and Junior World Champion. Mark shares his journey into wrestling, revealing how an early injury pushed him to develop a unique technique that allows him to score without ever touching a leg. The conversation covers a range of topics including balancing the drive to win with personal growth, understanding and preventing burnout in wrestlers, and strategies to help kids fall in love with wrestling. Mark also shares entertaining stories from his time in the Penn State wrestling room, including their Call of Duty-inspired training games. We discuss building competitiveness in the wrestling room, advice for young wrestlers struggling with competitiveness, and insights into Mark's coaching career and how he connects with his athletes. Tune in for an episode filled with valuable insights and inspiring stories.

In Episode 067 of the Athletor Podcast, we welcome Terry Steiner, the accomplished USA Wrestling Women's Head Coach and NCAA Champion. Coach Steiner shares insights into the distinct process of making Team USA for women compared to men, explaining the rationale and origins of these differences. He provides an inside look at the rigorous Team USA training camps as the team prepares for the 2024 Olympics and discusses the heightened pressures athletes face during Olympic years. We also cover how Team USA helps athletes stay focused on competition amid numerous media requests, the role of Regional Training Centers (RTCs) in the US's decentralized athlete development approach, and the impact of NIL on RTCs. Additionally, Coach Steiner talks about the growth and challenges of women's college wrestling at the NCAA level. This episode is a treasure trove of information for anyone interested in elite wrestling and athlete preparation.

In Episode 066 of the Athletor Podcast, we're joined by Steve Mytych, Assistant Coach at Rutgers, who brings a wealth of experience from both the competitive and coaching sides of wrestling. This discussion delves into the critical aspects of youth wrestling culture and the influence of parenting on young athletes' careers. Steve shares poignant insights from his time on the camp circuit, illustrating common mistakes he observes in wrestling parents and the often overlooked emotional toll of "the car ride home" discussions post-practice. Steve offers invaluable advice to wrestling parents, emphasizing the importance of stability by committing to a single wrestling club and fostering a supportive home environment aligned with shared goals. He also recounts some eye-opening stories of parenting mishaps he's encountered, providing lessons on what not to do. Additionally, Steve discusses the logistical and emotional challenges of juggling a demanding Division I coaching schedule with managing youth national competitions, shedding light on how he successfully maintains balance between high-level coaching responsibilities and personal commitment to youth development in the sport. This episode is a must-listen for anyone involved in youth sports, particularly wrestling, offering guidance on nurturing young athletes while avoiding the pitfalls of high-intensity sports parenting.