The GO EARN IT Podcast

Drew Foster, a two-time All-American at Northern Iowa, discussed his journey as a four-sport athlete in high school and the benefits of versatility. He detailed his wrestling career, highlighting his redshirt freshman year where he went 1-9 and his rapid improvement to becoming an All-American in 2017. Foster emphasized the importance of effort, trust, and resilience.He shared his experience at the White House with President Trump and reflected on the impact of his achievements, including the pride and support from his community. Foster also touched on his personal life, including his wife and newborn child.Drew Foster discussed his wrestling career, highlighting key moments such as earning his first scholarship, becoming an All-American, and graduating college as the first in his immediate family. He recounted a pivotal match in the NCAA finals where he successfully executed a take-down sequence, drawing parallels to a similar practice drill.Foster expressed disappointment over not receiving a traditional wall chart for his national title, instead receiving a rolled-up mat instead of a framed bracket.

Lehigh head wrestling coach Pat Santoro joined the show to discuss his journey as an athlete and mentor. A two-time NCAA champion and four-time All-American at Pitt, Santoro reflected on the mental and physical growth that defined his wrestling career, from early struggles in high school to his breakthrough moments at Blair Academy and Pitt. He emphasized the importance of courage, belief, and embracing challenges, recounting how pivotal mindset shifts fueled his success. Santoro also shared his philosophy on developing athletes, stressing the value of enjoying the sport and continuously learning, both on and off the mat.In addition to wrestling insights, Santoro delved into personal stories, such as his connection to faith and how it shaped his life during college. He highlighted the influence of mentors like Rande Stottlemyer and celebrated the camaraderie of his Pitt teammates. Santoro's passion for wrestling extends to his current role at Lehigh, where he inspires his team to “lay it on the line” and embrace every opportunity. With reflections on dual meets, rule changes, and the evolving nature of the sport, the conversation offered a compelling glimpse into Santoro's impact as a coach and leader.

Kendric Maple, a three-time Big 12 champion and three-time All-American at the University of Oklahoma, discussed his high school and collegiate wrestling career. He highlighted his high school state titles and the impact of his coach. Maple detailed his recruiting process, including visits to Oklahoma and Iowa State, and his decision to attend Oklahoma.He recounted his national title win in 2014 and the challenges of being a returning champion. Maple emphasized the importance of mental preparation, team support, and the influence of coaches like Mark Cody and Brian Smith. He also shared personal anecdotes and his love for football and wrestling.

Mark Branch, a four-time finalist and two-time national champion, discusses his wrestling journey with Shane Sparks. Branch recalls his first meeting with John Smith, who convinced him to join Oklahoma State over the University of Oklahoma. He describes the initial challenges of transitioning from high school to college wrestling, feeling inadequate and overmatched. Branch emphasizes the importance of perseverance, citing his freshman season where he won the national championship despite entering the tournament with a losing record. He also shares the emotional impact of overcoming a serious knee injury and the support from his mother's cancer battle. Branch highlights the shift in his coaching philosophy to prioritize relationships and emotional support for his athletes. Check out Shane Sparks' interview with Mark Branch on Episode 38 of the Go Earn It Podcast.SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS

Current Edinboro assistant coach AJ Schopp joins Shane Sparks on the latest episode of the Go Earn It Podcast. Schopp was a three-time All-American for the Fighting Scots and recently returned after spending a number of years on staff at Purdue. School discusses his wrestling journey, emphasizing the importance of hard work and mental resilience. He recalls his time at Young Guns, highlighting the impact of the club on his development. Schopp shares his decision to attend Edinboro for its low-key environment and strong academic focus. He reflects on his 2015 NCAA Championships experience, where he overcame a first-round loss to place third, and the significance of team success. Schopp also discusses his competitive nature, particularly his pinning techniques and rivalries with wrestlers like Tony Ramos and Chris Dardanes. Check out Shane Sparks' interview with A.J. Schopp on Episode 37 of the Go Earn It Podcast. SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS

Darian Cruz, a three-time All-American, NCAA champion and Olympian, reflects on his career, particularly his 2017 NCAA championship win against Thomas Gilman. He recalls the emotional preparation and the pivotal moments in the match, including a crucial takedown in regulation and overtime. Cruz also discusses the impact of his coach, Pat Santoro, and the importance of mental preparation. He shares his Olympic experience, highlighting the excitement and pressure of competing at that level. Cruz emphasizes the significance of representing Puerto Rico and the lessons learned from both victories and defeats. Check out Shane Sparks' interview with Darian Cruz on Episode 36 of the Go Earn It Podcast. SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS

Teague Moore, a three-time All-American and national champion at Oklahoma State, discussed his wrestling journey. He recalled losing to Jeremy Hunter in high school and finally winning a high school state championship. Moore highlighted his pivotal meeting with John Smith at Fargo, which led to his commitment to Oklahoma State. He detailed his national championship win in 1998 over David Morgan and the emotional impact of his father's passing. Moore also reflected on his international career, including his silver at the World Cup and the influence of Coach Smith and other mentors. He emphasized the importance of embracing challenges and the potential for rule changes to enhance dual meets. Check out Shane Sparks' interview with Teague Moore on Episode 35 of the Go Earn It Podcast. SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS

Cody Brewer, a national champion and four-time All-American wrestler, discussed his wrestling journey and coaching career. He highlighted his mentor, Mike Lightner, and his best wrestling IQs. Brewer shared his early wrestling experiences, including his first state championship and his high school losses. He recounted his 2014 national title win and the 2015 loss to Nahshon Garrett. Brewer emphasized the importance of chasing competition and building relationships with athletes. He also reflected on his transition to coaching and the significance of his Punisher skull tattoo, symbolizing his grandmother's memory. Check out Shane Sparks' interview with Cody Brewer on Episode 34 of the Go Earn It Podcast. SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS

Daton Fix, a five-time Big 12 champion, five-time NCAA Division I All-American and Junior World Champion, discussed his wrestling journey. He highlighted his experiences at Gallagher-Iba Arena, including his final match against Iowa, and his high school career, where he won four state titles. Fix recounted his recruitment process, choosing Oklahoma State over other top colleges. He reflected on his dedication, mentions of his favorite Cowboy growing up, Steve Mocco, and his first meeting with John Smith. Fix also discussed his faith, the impact of setbacks, and his future goals, including becoming an Olympic gold medalist. Check out Shane Sparks' interview with Daton Fix on Episode 33 of the Go Earn It Podcast. SUBSCRIBE: Apple Podcasts | Spotify | RSS

Shane Sparks' discussion with World silver medalist, three-time NCAA All-American, two-time NCAA champion and two-time Olympian Kerry McCoy on Episode 32 of the Go Earn It Podcast.

Shane Sparks talks with Olympic silver medalist, NCAA All-American and respected club coach Brandon Paulson on Episode 31 of the Go Earn It Podcast. 

Join host Shane Sparks and Eric Larkin as they explore the world of wrestling from foundational philosophies to personal career experiences. This episode is packed with insights into starting a prep school wrestling program, the intrinsic benefits of wrestling, and the journey of building mental toughness through the sport.0:00 – Starting a Prep School Wrestling ProgramEric Larkin shares his experiences and strategies for launching a successful prep school wrestling program. He discusses the essential non-negotiables in philosophy and growth to create a strong foundation for young athletes.4:48 – The Benefits of Wrestling for Self-Drive and Aggression ReleaseExplore how wrestling fosters self-discipline and provides a healthy outlet for aggression. Eric and Shane delve into the psychological and physical benefits that wrestling offers to individuals.10:05 – Wrestling, Third Place, and Mental ToughnessA discussion on the significance of wrestling in developing mental toughness. Eric highlights the lessons learned from striving for third place and how these experiences build resilience.14:47 – Wrestling Career, State Titles, and College RecruitmentEric reflects on his wrestling career, recounting the journey to state titles and the college recruitment process. He provides valuable advice for aspiring wrestlers looking to make their mark at the state and collegiate levels.19:09 – College Wrestling Experiences and Weight Class ChallengesAn in-depth look at the challenges and triumphs of college wrestling. Eric shares his personal experiences with weight class struggles and the adaptations required to succeed at the collegiate level.24:00 – Wrestling Career, Injuries, and Mental ToughnessThe episode concludes with a discussion on the impact of injuries on a wrestling career. Eric emphasizes the importance of mental toughness in overcoming setbacks and achieving long-term success in the sport.

Part 1 of Shane Sparks' discussion with four-time All-American, NCAA champion and 2003 Dan Hodge Trophy Winner Eric Larkin on  Episode 30 of the Go Earn It Podcast.

Part 2 of Shane Sparks' discussion with current Virginia Tech associate head coach and 2012 Olympian Jared Frayer on  Episode 28 of the Go Earn It Podcast.

Part 1 of Shane Sparks' discussion with current Virginia Tech associate head coach and 2012 Olympian Jared Frayer on  Episode 26 of the Go Earn It Podcast.Frayer was a two-time All-American and a 2002 NCAA Division I national finalist for Oklahoma. Frayer is a native of Clearwater, Florida. 

Part 2 of Shane Sparks' discussion with current Wisconsin assistant coach and past NCAA Division I champion Jon Reader on Episode 26 of the Go Earn It Podcast.

Shane Sparks needs little reason to get fired up when talking wrestling, but when he's talking with Jon Reader, the fire just burns a bit brighter. Join Sparks on Episode 25 of the Go Earn It Podcast as he talks with the current Wisconsin assistant and 2011 NCAA Division I champion. 

Michigan native, four-time All-American and two-time NCAA champion Gabe Dean joins Shane Sparks on the most recent episode of the Go Earn It Podcast.

Shane Sparks joins New York native and current Cornell assistant coach Nick Gwiazdowski, a two-time World bronze medalist, four-time All-American and two-time NCAA Champion on the latest episode of the Go Earn It Podcast. Gwiazdowski started his college career at Binghamton for head coach Pat Popolizio and followed his coach to NC State where he'd win two NCAA titles and wrestle in the finals three times. Sparks tracks Gwiazdowski's path from growing up in the Capital Region of New York to his numerous U.S. Open championships to go along with his stellar college career.

Shane Sparks returns for Part 2 of the Go Earn It Podcast with Matt McDonough, a three-time NCAA Division I finalist and two-time champion from the University of Iowa.

Brian Smith has been the architect of the Missouri wrestling program. On the latest episode of the Go Earn It Podcast with host Shane Sparks, Smith talks about his philosophy on coaching and developing wrestlers, coming from Florida and wrestling at Michigan State and how he's shaped Missouri into one of the top programs in the country.

In this episode of the Go Earn It Podcast, host Shane Sparks sits down with David Carr, a five-time NCAA Division I All-American and two-time NCAA champion from Iowa State. The conversation delves into the intense rivalry between Carr and fellow wrestler Keegan O'Toole, which has captivated audiences with its fierce competition and strategic maneuvers (0:00). Carr opens up about dealing with disappointment in wrestling and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset despite setbacks, drawing on personal experiences and insights from literature to build mental toughness (5:15). Reflecting on his journey starting wrestling at the age of 5, Carr emphasizes the role of determination and hard work in his progression through the sport (17:48).Additionally, he shares the profound impact of his father's Olympic wrestling career on his own life and athletic pursuits (24:07). The discussion also touches on the influence of coaching and the factors that led Carr to choose his college (26:31). Throughout the episode, Carr underscores the significance of faith and perseverance in his life and career, highlighting the mental preparation and trust in God before high-stakes wrestling matches (15:16, 45:03).The conversation concludes with insights into the mindset of a football player during a game, as well as the strategies and emotions involved in wrestling matches (48:11, 51:19). Sparks wraps up the episode by thanking David Carr for sharing his experiences and insights, inviting listeners to tune in next time for more discussions on wrestling, sportsmanship, and personal growth on the Go Earn It Podcast.

Shane Sparks catches up with three-time All-American and two-time NCAA Division I champion Matt McDonough from Iowa. Sparks talks with McDonough about his career at Iowa and how he almost ended up as a Northwestern Wildcat. 

On Episode 18 of the Go Earn It Podcast, Shane Sparks delves into the wrestling journey of four-time All-American Nick Simmons, exploring his illustrious career as an athlete at Michigan State, his time on the U.S. World Team and a college and club coach. From his early days to becoming a three-time Big Ten champion, Simmons shares his insights on wrestling techniques, mental toughness, and his coaching philosophy.TimestampsWrestling Career and Memories with Nick Simmons (0:00)College Wrestling Career and Mentality (6:02)Wrestling Techniques and Favorite Wrestlers (13:07)Wrestling Strategies and Overcoming Setbacks (17:02)Mental Toughness in Wrestling After Devastating Losses (22:30)Wrestling Strategies and Personal Growth (31:54)Coaching Philosophy, and Advice for Young Wrestlers (38:36)Double Knee Pads (42:58)Tune in to The Go Earn It Podcast for more episodes featuring the stories and insights from wrestling's most influential figures!

Shane Sparks sits down with Robert Kokesh, a standout wrestler from the University of Nebraska, to discuss his journey from South Dakota to becoming a three-time All-American. Kokesh shares insights into his wrestling career, the influence of his coaches, and the lessons learned along the way.TimestampsWrestling, Sports, and Personal Background (0:02)Toughness, Resilience, and Wrestling (3:33)High School Wrestling Experiences and Coaching (6:26)College Wrestling Recruitment and Early Conversations with Coach Mark Manning (9:45)College Wrestling, Training, and Competition (12:41)Wrestling Strategies and Mindset (19:12)The Difficulty of Winning a Big Ten Wrestling Title (22:07)College Wrestling Success and Humility (24:55)High School Wrestling and Personal Growth (27:59)Wrestling Preparation and Music Choices (37:14)Wrestling, Perseverance, and Regret (39:58)Wrestling Career, Leadership, and Mentorship (43:19)A Wrestling Match with a Dramatic Finish (50:45)Wrestling Discipline and Lifestyle (53:26)Impact of Wrestling Coach on Son's Life (55:33)Wrestling, Parenting, and Personal Heroes (58:59)

Shane Sparks welcomes Cole Konrad, a wrestling legend from the University of Minnesota and an undefeated Bellator champion in MMA. Konrad discusses his journey from being a top high school heavyweight to achieving collegiate wrestling glory and making a mark in the MMA world. TimestampsCollege Sports Achievements with a Former Athlete (0:02)Wrestling Success, Motivation, and Dedication (1:01)High School Wrestling, College Recruitment, and Career Goals (6:47)College Wrestling, Commitment, and Focus with J Robinson (11:39)Impact of High School Wrestling Coach and Teammates on Personal Growth (16:48)Wrestling, Motivation, and Rivalry (31:25)Wrestling Career, Personal Preferences, and Life Goals (54:36)

Shane Sparks sits down with Matt Valenti, a distinguished figure in collegiate wrestling and athletics administration. Valenti shares insights from his journey as a multi-sport athlete in high school to becoming a two-time NCAA wrestling champion for the University of Pennsylvania. He's now working at his alma mater as a Senior Associate AD for Student-Athlete Leadership and Development. The conversation covers the importance of family support, the challenges and triumphs of his wrestling career, and his commitment to supporting student athletes' mental health.TimestampsThe Benefits of Multi-Sport Participation and Family Support in Wrestling (0:02)High School Wrestling Experiences and College Aspirations (3:42)Wrestling Career, College Recruitment, and Early Days at Penn (6:09)Wrestling Matches and Personal Achievements (12:44)Wrestling, Losing First Round, and Bouncing Back (15:20)Mental Health and Support for Student Athletes (23:22)Wrestling Mindset and Technique with NCAA Champion (25:55)Wrestling Championships and Future of the Sport (35:32)Dual Meet Championships in Wrestling (41:06)Wrestling Losses, Legacy, and Coaching Impact (44:38)

Join Shane Sparks as he delves into the inspiring journey of Anthony Cassar, from his singular New Jersey state championship to clinching the NCAA heavyweight title with Penn State. Cassar shares his transition into MMA, the mental and physical preparation that propelled him to success, and the lessons learned from setbacks.TimestampsPassion, Grit, and Perseverance in Wrestling and MMA (0:02)Career, College Choice, and Overcoming Setbacks (4:32)Wrestling Mindset and Preparation (11:16)Techniques and the Mental Game (15:59)Wrestling and MMA Training and Coaching (21:19)Using Losses for Personal Growth (26:06)Wrestling, Personal Goals, and Faith (38:59)

Shane Sparks sits down with wrestling legend Tommy Rowlands, discussing his illustrious career from high school dominance to international competition. They delve into Rowlands' rivalry with Steve Mocco, his Olympic journey, and the lessons he's learned along the way.TimestampsWrestling Career with Two-Time State Champion Tommy Rowlands (0:02)Wrestling Career, High School State Titles, and College Recruitment (0:54)Wrestling Career, Beliefs, and Mentors (4:48)Overcoming Setbacks and Nerves in Wrestling Career (11:41)A Fierce Wrestling Rivalry and Its Impact (18:35)Olympic Wrestling Journey and Lessons Learned (24:28)Wrestling, Coaching, and Personal Growth (29:19)Wrestling Techniques, Coaching Decisions, and Personal Growth (31:39)Wrestling Strategies and Passion for the Sport (36:59)Wrestling, Favorite Things, and Personal Stories (41:26)Life-Changing Moments and Personal Heroes (46:17)

In this episode, Shane Sparks welcomes Doug Schwab, a three-time All-American, national champion at Iowa, 2008 Olympian, and the head coach at the University of Northern Iowa. Schwab shares his insights on wrestling, coaching, and life, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, discipline, and the impact of great mentors.Key Points DiscussedSchwab's Wrestling Journey: From his early experiences in the sport to becoming a national champion and Olympian.Coaching Philosophy: Schwab discusses his approach to coaching, focusing on personal growth, discipline, and the long-term impact on athletes.Influences and Mentors: The significant impact of coaches like Dan Gable on Schwab's career and coaching style.Wrestling and Life Lessons: Schwab reflects on the parallels between wrestling and life, emphasizing the importance of persistence, learning from setbacks, and personal development.Team Dynamics and Leadership: Insights into building a successful team culture and the role of leadership in wrestling.Personal Reflections: Schwab shares personal stories, including his family's influence, his approach to overcoming challenges, and his perspective on success.

Shane Sparks sits down with wrestling legend Mark Ironside, a Cedar Rapids native known for his remarkable career at Iowa and his dynamic role in the KXIC wrestling broadcast team. Ironside was a four-time All-American at Iowa from 1995-1998 and was a two-time NCAA champion, claiming titles in 1997 and 1998 at 134 pounds. Ironside was the 1998 Dan Hodge Trophy winner. Sparks and Ironside delve into Ironside's wrestling techniques, memorable experiences, and the profound impact of coaches like Dan Gable on his career. TimestampsWrestling Techniques and Memories with Mark Ironside (0:02)Early Wrestling Experiences and Coach's Impact (0:54)College Wrestling, Iowa Hawkeyes, and Personal Experience (5:09)Dan Gable's Coaching Style and Impact on Wrestlers (11:57)Wrestling Match and Impactful Teammates (14:58)A Wrestling Match with Moments of Frustration and Focus (21:12)Dealing with Defeat in Wrestling (24:06)The Importance of Perseverance in Wrestling (30:33)Passion, Commitment, and Drive in Wrestling (33:18)A Memorable College Wrestling Match with Gable (40:01)Wrestling National Titles and Awards (42:37)The Importance of Top Position in Wrestling (46:47)Wrestling Training and Mental Preparation (48:54)Favorite Movies, Sports Teams, Superstitions and Personal Preferences (54:37)

Shane Sparks jumps into Episode 10 of the Go Earn It Podcast with current Stanford assistant coach Ryan Deakin. A native of Broomfield, Colorado and a two-time high school state champion at Legacy High School, Deakin qualified for the NCAA championships five times at Northwestern. He was a four-time All-American, placing three times and was named first-team All-American in 2020. He won a 2022 NCAA Division I title at 157 pounds for Northwestern. Sparks and Deakin discuss Deakin's journey in wrestling, from his early days to his collegiate triumphs and coaching career, emphasizing the lessons learned and the impact of wrestling on personal growth.TimestampsHow wrestling coach Ryan Deakin got into the sport and his early experiences. (0:02)High school wrestling and its impact on athletes. (2:49)Pursuing excellence in wrestling and life. (6:52)Academic success and potential. (10:35)Family, school, and wrestling with a Northwestern alumnus. (15:04)Wrestling goals and mental toughness. (21:35)College wrestling success and the importance of discipline. (26:24)Wrestling recovery and memorable matches. (29:58)College wrestling, past experiences, and announcing. (34:29)College wrestling, perseverance, and regret. (37:29)Wrestling career, setbacks, and perspective. (43:09)Wrestling losses and lessons learned. (49:00)Coaching, personal growth, and life preferences. (57:27)Wrestling, personal lives, and beliefs. (1:03:20)

Shane Sparks sits down with Mark Hall, a distinguished wrestler known for his six individual state championships and tenure as a four-time All-American at Penn State. Now an assistant coach at the University of Pennsylvania, Hall shares insights from his extensive wrestling career, the impact of his coaches, and the mental strategies that have shaped his approach to the sport.TimestampsWrestling Career and Achievements with Mark (0:00)Wrestling Career, Coach Chase Metcalf's Impact, and Memories (1:03)Wrestling, Family, and Childhood Memories (5:24)Wrestling Experiences and Memories (11:06)Wrestling Training, Partners, and Mental Toughness (15:11)Wrestling Techniques and Mindset (21:53)Wrestling Techniques and Strategies with a Former High School State Champion (26:37)Wrestling Memories and Recruiting Process (33:30)College Wrestling, Fear, and Confidence (37:00)Wrestling, Mindset, and Overcoming Setbacks (44:43)Sports Teams and Postseason Hopes (52:18)

Shane Sparks welcomes Dom Bradley, a two-time All-American from the University of Missouri and recent winner of the U.S. Senior Nationals. At 34, Bradley has qualified for his fourth Olympic Team Trials. The episode delves into his extensive wrestling career, techniques, personal growth, and the unique challenges of competing at an elite level in his mid-thirties. Timestamps Wrestling Techniques and Injuries with a Former NCAA Champion (0:00) Wrestling Love, Training, and Competing at 34 Years Old (2:37) Wrestling Experiences and Personal Growth (6:40) High School Wrestling and Personal Growth (10:10) Wrestling Career, High School Memories, and Tournament Experiences (16:55) Wrestling Experiences and Mindset (19:37) Wrestling Career and Rivalries (21:47) Wrestling Rivalry and Perseverance (28:34) Wrestling Career, Missed Opportunities, and Team Dynamics (32:22) Wrestling, Losing in Semis, and Taking Third Place (36:06) Wrestling Frequency and Training (39:13) Wrestling Experiences and Toughest Opponents (44:51) Wrestling Opponents and Techniques (47:36) Wrestling Coaching, Techniques, and Personal Stories (50:07) Coaching, Life Lessons, and Personal Growth (55:44) Wrestling Coaching, Training, and Mentorship (58:35) Parenting, Coaching, and Team Motivation (1:02:07)

Join host Shane Sparks as he engages with Alex Dieringer, a Wisconsin native and renowned wrestler with an impressive record as a four-time NCAA Division I All-American and three-time NCAA Champion. They delve into a range of topics covering Dieringer's wrestling journey, from his preparation and mental toughness to his experiences at Oklahoma State and beyond. TimestampsWrestling Preparation and Mental Toughness (0:02)Wrestling Origins, Confidence, and Self-Doubt (3:51)High School Wrestling Career and Its Impact on College Success (7:49)Wrestling Career, Losses, and Development (11:49)Wrestling Career, Recruiting Process, and College Experience (16:24)Wrestling Techniques and Mental Preparation with a Former College Wrestler (21:24)Wrestling Coach's Motivational Talks and Athlete's Comeback from Loss (25:22)Wrestling Career, Weight Cutting, and Success (29:03)Wrestling Mindset and Success at Oklahoma State (34:12)Wrestling Career, Impactful Teammates, and Short Memories (37:17)Wrestling Career Highlights and Techniques with a National Champion (43:03)Wrestling Career and Achievements (48:20)Wrestling Techniques and Strategies with an Olympic Champion (51:48)Wrestling Techniques and Coaches' Impact on Success (55:42)Movies, Romance, and Music with Two Friends (1:00:48)

Shane Sparks hosts Patrick Glory, the 2023 NCAA Champion from Princeton University, in a conversation that covers Glory's wrestling journey, his approach to mental toughness, and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on his career.TimestampsWrestling Background and Identity (0:02)Wrestling Career and Mental Toughness (3:16)Mental Preparation and State Championship Wins in Wrestling (6:39)College Wrestling Experience and Memories (12:42)Wrestling Success, Academic Priorities, and Top Game Mentality (16:00)College Wrestling, COVID-19 Pandemic, and Coping with Unexpected Setbacks (22:05)College Wrestling and Music Choices (25:44)Wrestling Strategies and Memories (28:56)Wrestling Mental Preparation and Spencer Lee's Dominance (34:34)Wrestling, Career, and Personal Growth (37:51)College Wrestling Culture and Coaching Impact (43:45)Weight Cutting, Eating Habits, and Wrestling Strategies (46:04)

In this episode of The GO EARN IT Podcast, host Shane Sparks sits down with multiple-time NCAA wrestling All-American, Alex Marinelli from the University of Iowa. Marinelli shares insights and stories from his remarkable wrestling career, reflecting on intense rivalries, personal growth, and the lessons learned both on and off the mat.Episode Timestamps:0:03 - The Intensity of the Iowa-Iowa State Wrestling Rivalry2:12 - Wrestling Memories and Experiences6:42 - High School Wrestling and Online Education11:49 - High School Wrestling, Coach Jeff Jordan, and Memorable Matches17:29 - Winning, Hard Work, and Quotes from Tom and Terry20:22 - Wrestling, Life Lessons, and Personal Growth24:54 - Wrestling Commitments and Personal Decisions30:33 - College Wrestling Career and Rivalries33:21 - Wrestling Matches and Techniques with a Former Opponent37:48 - Dealing with Loss and Perseverance in Wrestling42:09 - Wrestling Consistency and Discipline43:37 - Wrestling Training, Mental Preparation, and Identity49:38 - Wrestling Losses and Moving Forward52:39 - Wrestling Injuries and Faith58:29 - Faith, Sport, and Marriage1:01:29 - Quotes, Motivation, and Personal Growth1:06:11 - Wrestling Career, Faith, and Coaching Goals

Shane Sparks talks with multiple-time All-American and recent Bill Farrell International winner Trent Hidlay of NC State. A three-time All-American, Hidlay has finished second, fifth and fourth in his first three seasons in the Wolfpack lineup. Learn more about his with Shane Sparks on the GO EARN IT Podcast.

In this insightful episode, Shane Sparks sits down with Chris Perry, a decorated wrestler and current assistant coach at Oklahoma State. Perry, a four-time Big 12 champion, delves into his wrestling journey, discussing everything from his father's influence and high school challenges to the pressures of college wrestling and the importance of mental toughness. Wrestling with Chris Perry, 4-Time Big 12 Champion (0:03):Chris Perry shares his experiences as a four-time Big 12 champion and his transition to coaching at Oklahoma State.Father's Influence on Son's Sports Career (1:30):At 1:30, Perry discusses the significant impact his father had on his sports career.High SchoolWrestling and Mental Toughness (4:21):Perry reflects on his high school wrestling days and the development of mental toughness.HighSchool Wrestling, College Preparation, and Family Influence (7:13):The conversation shifts to how high school wrestling prepared him for college and the role his family played at 7:13.Pressure and Expectations in College Wrestling (10:45):Perry talks about handling pressure and expectations in the college wrestling scene at 10:45.College Wrestling, Confidence, and Overcoming Setbacks (15:24):At 15:24, he shares insights into building confidence and overcoming setbacks in college wrestling.Wrestling, Family, and Teamwork (18:49):The importance of family and teamwork in wrestling is discussed at 18:49.Wrestling Career, Setbacks, and Perseverance (22:04):Perry opens up about his wrestling career, facing setbacks, and the perseverance required at 22:04.Wrestling Pressure and Mental Toughness (28:03):He delves into the relationship between wrestling pressure and mental toughness at 28:03.Embracing Pressure and Belief in Oneself in Wrestling (31:27):At 31:27, Perry talks about embracing pressure and the power of self-belief in wrestling.Wrestling, Personal Growth, and Motivation (34:00):The conversation turns to personal growth and motivation in wrestling at 34:00.Beating a Tough Opponent in College Wrestling (40:46):Perry recounts his experience of beating a tough opponent in college wrestling at 40:46.Adapting to Opponents and Strategic Coaching (43:46):At 43:46, he discusses adapting to different opponents and the nuances of strategic coaching.The Difficulty and Hard Work Required in Wrestling (46:34):The episode concludes with Perry emphasizing the difficulty and hard work inherent in wrestling at 46:34.

Join host Shane Sparks as he engages with Nick Lee, a member of Team USA's men's freestyle wrestling team. Lee, a two-time NCAA Champion and five-time All-American at Penn State, delves into his wrestling journey, the influence of his family and faith, and the experiences that have shaped his career and personal growth.Nick Lee discusses the intertwining of family values, language, and his wrestling career right from the outset (0:00).He reflects on the influence of his family's military service on his collegiate wrestling life as the conversation progresses (2:41).Penn State's profound impact on his development as a wrestler comes into focus as the discussion moves forward (8:09).The decision to commit to Penn State during his high school career is recounted, marking a significant moment in his journey (10:51).Personal growth through wrestling and the importance of teamwork are highlighted as the episode continues (15:50).Nick shares how wrestling losses have shaped his personal evolution, a candid reflection on adversity (22:22).He opens up about the challenges faced in wrestling and the mental resilience required to overcome them (25:43).The role of faith and discipline in his wrestling career is then explored (30:57).The conversation shifts to the tactical aspects of wrestling, specifically the impact of the three-point takedown rule in college wrestling (37:25).Nick's wrestling career, including his national championship wins and rivalries, is discussed as the episode nears its conclusion (41:01).The culture and legacy of wrestling, as well as Nick's contributions to it, are considered towards the end of the podcast (45:31).Finally, Nick's experiences with international competition and its role in his personal and athletic growth are examined (51:16),before concluding with a discussion on how faith intersects with his life beyond the mat, including business and personal development (1:01:18).

In this episode, Shane Sparks sits down with Stevan Micic, the 2023 Men's Freestyle Wrestling World Champion from Serbia. They dive deep into Stevan's wrestling journey, from his high school days to becoming a world champion.Topics range from mental preparation and memorable matches to the challenges of winning an NCAA championship and balancing life and wrestling.TimestampsWrestling Career and Memories with Stevan Micic (0:02)Stevan shares his wrestling journey and some unforgettable memories.High School Wrestling Experiences and Mental Preparation (2:55)How Stevan prepared mentally during his high school wrestling days.High School Wrestling, College Decision, and Mental Growth (5:29)Stevan talks about the transition from high school to college wrestling and how his mindset evolved.College Wrestling Matches and Memorable Moments (11:34)A look back at some of Stevan's most memorable college wrestling matches.Wrestling Match and Its Impact on the Wrestler's Mental State (14:42)The psychological impact of a wrestling match on Stevan and how he manages it.The Challenges of Winning an NCAA Wrestling Championship (17:54)Stevan discusses the hurdles and challenges he faced on his journey trying to winning an NCAA championship, but ultimatley coming up short.Wrestling Mindset and Championship Win (22:50)Insights into Stevan's mindset that led him to become a world champion.Heritage, Sport, and Family with a World Wrestling Champion (25:09)Stevan opens up about his Serbian heritage and the role his family played in his wrestling career.Balance in Wrestling Training and Life (28:04)How Stevan maintains a healthy balance between his wrestling training and personal life.

Trailer/introduction for the Go Earn It Podcast, hosted by award-winning wrestling broadcaster Shane Sparks.