Podcasts about Ruston

Director of Alumni Engagement Leslie Brister Carpenter is proud to have a Louisiana Tech heart. Born and raised in Ruston, she's made a career out of serving the campus and the community and letting her love for the University radiate through all she does. From her time as a student recruiter in college to jobs working with admissions and LA Tech Football, she's worked hard to personify the phrase "Ever Loyal Be" and spends this episode explaining why. Your Tech, Your Town 2026: latechalumni.org Website: 1894.latech.edu/beyond/ Email: 1894@latech.edu

Senator Anne Ruston joined David & Will for Breaking at 8. See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

In today's episode, Dr. Ruston interviews tech journalist Manoush Zomorodi about her book Body Electric and a movement to normalize periodic movement breaks from screens. Zomorodi talks about research that shows five minutes of gentle movement every 30 minutes can significantly improve glucose, blood pressure, focus, mood, and energy, and explains a large self-reported project with 20,000 participants testing breaks every 30 minutes, hour, or two hours. They discuss why standing desks aren't enough, how movement supports circulation and cognition, practical habit strategies, and parenting approaches to help motivate kids to move, such as framing movement as something kids "get to" do.   Expert: Manoush Zomorodi   Book: Body Electric: The Hidden Health Costs of the Digital Age and New Science to Reclaim Your Well-Being, by Manoush Zomorodi   Research References: Breaking Up Prolonged Sitting to Improve Cardiometabolic Risk: Dose-Response Analysis of a Randomized Crossover Trial, Keith Diaz, PhD et al.   Resources: Screenagers Website Bring Screenagers to Your Community   Time Code:  00:00 Show Updates 00:28 Meet Manoush 02:40 Why Screens Exhaust Us 04:13 Five Minute Fix 06:49 Testing Movement Breaks 08:24 Citizen Science Approach 11:56 Lab Results Surprise 15:28 Standing Desk Myth 18:04 Making Breaks Stick 20:46 Listening to Your Body 21:30 Movement Mindset Shift 22:22 Screenagers Films Break 23:13 Parenting Without Shame 24:42 The Pandemic Questionnaire 26:35 Did You Get to Move 27:24 Airport Workouts Legacy 28:08 Tracking Steps Without Pressure 30:21 Be the Weirdo at Work 32:17 Movement Experiments With Kids 33:04 Part Two Tease and Resources 33:50 Where to Find Manoush 34:44 Podcast Wrap and Credits

Stephen Featherston lives the 'SID' life. And while the sports information director role has evolved, so has Featherston. In addition to football at Tech, Featherston also oversees strategic communications for softball & bowling, Featherston describes the differences in each sport, how he continues to elevate his craft and impact while wearing a variety of different hats, and too the path that's led him to Ruston.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sermon from Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana Speaker: Rev. Doug de Graffenried — If you're new or listening for the first time, we'd love to connect: http://bit.ly/392sC6a Learn more about Trinity: http://trinityruston.org 

One week ago, the state of Louisiana’s Legislative Auditor’s office released its annual fiscal review of Grambling State University’s athletics program for the year ending June 30, 2025. The school was cited for a few audit irregularities and quickly announced that changes were being made.  That wasn’t the biggest news, though. Grambling’s athletics department lost $5.1 million for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.  Revenues were reported at $9.2 million versus annual expenses of $14.3 million. In percentage terms, Grambling’s revenue was only 64% of the amount needed to sustain the athletics programs at the current level. Grambling wasn’t the only north Louisiana public university whose athletics spending exceeded revenue last year The same Louisiana Legislative Auditor also filed reports earlier in 2026 for Louisiana Tech University, Northwestern State University and the University of Louisiana at Monroe. Each of these four football-playing state universities located north of Alexandria reported losses in their athletics programs for the year ending June 30, 2025.  Grambling’s massive deficit grabbed the recent news headlines, but there is a troubling commonality among Louisiana public schools not named LSU. Louisiana Tech recently cut an expensive deal (rumored to be in the vicinity of $8 million) in order to exit Conference USA and join the more geographically-suitable Sun Belt Conference. That move may turn out to be prudent for the Bulldogs over the long-term.  Louisiana Tech’s annual travel expenses as part of Conference USA totaled nearly $3.5 million.  Nearby Sun Belt rival UL-Monroe’s travel costs for the same year were $2.3 million.  Louisiana Tech is expected save $1 million or more annually on its travel expenses beginning this fall by moving to the Sun Belt Conference. Let’s look under the hood at each of these four universities’ athletics spending.  We’ll finish with a few common sense (cheap) ideas on how to achieve break-even in the future. Grambling State University – 5,200 students (2024/2025 school year) Grambling is nationally known for its athletics and its exceptional marching band.  It was bit surprising to learn that Grambling’s football program had lost $2.5 million in the most recent year.  That amounted to about 50% of the athletic department’s annual deficit of $5.1 million. The football team’s travel costs of $1.1 million last fall were higher than all three of the other north Louisiana pubic schools. The expense summary also showed nearly $160,000 was spent to cover the costs of the school’s spirit groups (for one or more road trip performances). Grambling’s men’s and women’s basketball teams each posted losses in excess of $900,000 for the most recent year. Grambling (like Northwestern State) participates NCAA’s FCS small college football division.  The G-men play in the Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC). Louisiana Tech University – 12,145 students (Fall, 2025) The Bulldogs are based in Ruston.  Louisiana Tech’s campus is less than six miles east of Grambling via Interstate 20.  The Bulldogs have been competing in Conference USA and a part of the NCAA FBS major college football division.  As mentioned earlier, Louisiana Tech moves into the Sun Belt Conference this fall. Audit results for Louisiana Tech’s athletics department last year showed a loss of $11.875 million. Football lost “only” about $1.6 million for the year.  Louisiana Tech’s men’s and women’s basketball teams each ran a deficit of about $700,000 apiece.  Other competitive sports at Louisiana Tech lost another $2.6 million.  The school’s income statement showed “non-program specific” athletic costs with a $6 million shortfall. As noted earlier in this report, Louisiana Tech’s overall travel costs playing in far-flung Conference USA were easily the highest in the group.  The Dogs’ annual total of $3.5 million for travel exceeded Grambling ($2.6 mm), UL-Monroe ($2.3 mm) and Northwestern State (less than $1 million). Northwestern State University – 8,402 students (Fall, 2025) The Demons from Natchitoches, Louisiana came the closest to break-even within its athletics programs among these four state schools.  Northwestern State participates in the NCAA’s FCS small college football division in the regionally-aligned Southland Conference. Northwestern State posted a relatively benign loss of $167,245 for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2025.  The Demons’ men’s basketball program ran the largest deficit at more than $300,000.  The football team came up short by $280,000. Noteworthy, Northwestern State collected nearly $1.5 million in annual student fees to help support athletics.  That was about 10% of the school’s athletics spending.  It was the highest total among these four north Louisiana state schools. University of Louisiana at Monroe (ULM) – 8,678 students (Fall, 2025) Sun Belt Conference member ULM (like Louisiana Tech) competes in the NCAA’s FBS major college football division.  ULM is expecting to benefit from Louisiana Tech’s arrival in the Sun Belt Conference this fall with increased attendance and revenues expected at home games in all major sports. The Warhawks’ athletics budget is the smallest among the NCAA’s 136 FBS major colleges.  ULM’s overall school budget has been prone to massive shortfalls in recent years, too.  That means that ULM’s $1.5 million athletics department loss in fiscal year 2025 is much harder to cover. Audit results showed the UL-Monroe football program lost a whopping $3.8 million in the most recent report.  The Warhawks’ men’s and women’s basketball teams lost a combined $2.5 million.  Ouch! The school’s institutional support has kept the ULM athletics department afloat for years.  Significantly higher fan support for the Warhawks football and basketball programs is needed immediately.  Otherwise, the school may have no other choice but to consider returning to the NCAA FCS small college athletics division. A few suggestions from SwampSwami to achieve fiscal break-even These four north Louisiana state universities are located within 100 miles of each other.  Each school is a very large and important employer in its home city. These state schools must immediately address their athletics spending and move quickly toward achieving fiscal balance.  At the same time, they must also work harder and more creatively to raise sports revenues over the long-term to grow the athletics programs. First things first – Take immediate cost cutting measures – The simplest and fairest way is to voluntarily reduce athletics spending by cutting a certain percentage across the board.  That could come in the form of job reductions or, perhaps, an across-the-board pay cut for staff making more than $30,000 per year.  For example, a 5% mandatory spending reduction in Year 1 may spur some voluntary budget trimming beyond that level.  Yes, this likely means one less assistant coach, one fewer support staffer, one less charter flight, etc.  The athletics departments must take a hard look at streamlining operations.  Learn to do more with less. Refuse to play long-distance road games unless the school earns a significant profit by participating – UL-Monroe’s football team hits the road for at least two “Clobbering Time” payday games every season. They are often paid more than $1 million to play at large universities such as LSU, Texas A&M, and Alabama with huge stadiums.  ULM receives more money from some of these massive “visitor” paychecks than playing a home game in front of a sold-out stadium.  There are also downsides from being on the receiving end of a couple of massive road losses every season, too.  The football team and local fans can become a bit demoralized about the team’s chances for the remainder of the season. Now, let’s try to grow the revenue side with a few cheap ideas Stimulate increased student, alumni, and hometown support – Student and local support for the athletics programs within each of these four communities (Grambling, Ruston, Natchitoches, and Monroe) must improve.  Local fans want to see their sports teams having a chance to win more than they lose.  Identify sports which are cost-effective and give the school the best chance to hang a new (and long overdue) championship banner. Success in any of the major sports at these four schools can go a long way in rejuvenating and expanding the school’s athletic support base. Improve local marketing and promotion – It may sound corny but handing out free tickets to youth at local elementary, junior high school and high schools gets parents and guardians to purchase tickets, too.  A positive game day experience for that youth can plant a valuable seed about attending that college some day.  Each of these four north Louisiana public universities have thousands of empty seats available at football and basketball games.  A purposeful campaign to encourage and engage more youth at nearby college sporting events will pay future dividends. Inject more game day excitement – Utilize the pregame, quarter breaks, halftime, and post-game times to get fans more engaged.  Experiment with creative new (and inexpensive) ideas to keep the game experience fresh for all ages of fans. They will be more likely to return if they are having more fun at the games. Relentlessly promote ahead – There are only a few home football games played each fall.  Make each game special with its own promotion.  There are, perhaps, twenty home basketball, baseball or softball home games, too.  Give thought as to how to make each home game unique for fans. Target every recent (last few years) ticket purchaser by sending a weekly email.  Remind them of the school’s upcoming weekly sports schedule, special promotions, and discounts.  Utilize all types of social media to reach a wider audience to spread the word about upcoming college athletic events and team opponents. Depend on your own athletics staff to get the word out – Sadly, we live in a world with fewer and fewer exceptional local newspapers.  It is incumbent on each school’s athletics department to take an aggressive role in publicizing and promoting all ticket-based sporting events.  Fans want to know about the school’s upcoming games and events, so take the initiative! The post North Louisiana’s College Sports Programs are Underwater appeared first on SwampSwamiSports.com.

New Bulldogs Soccer Head Coach Matt Lodge details the early transition in Ruston as he and his staff build a winning formula in Ruston.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Sermon from Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana Speaker: Rev. Doug de Graffenried — If you're new or listening for the first time, we'd love to connect: http://bit.ly/392sC6a Learn more about Trinity: http://trinityruston.org 

Sermon from Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana Speaker: Rev. Doug de Graffenried — If you're new or listening for the first time, we'd love to connect: http://bit.ly/392sC6a Learn more about Trinity: http://trinityruston.org 

Mike and Charlie interviewed LSU sports reporter Zack Nagy and Sean Fox, the Sports Director of Sports Talk 97.7. Nagy broke down LSU football's latest recruiting additions: JUCO CB Lavonte Williams and Ruston five-star TE Ahmad Hudson. Fox, who covered Hudson at Ruston, evaluated the Tigers' talented addition. Mike gave his early top player in college football before the upcoming 2026 season. Lindsay Rhodes, an analyst for Sumer Sports, joined Sports Talk to discuss the Saints' offseason additions. Steve and Charlie spoke to Oleh Kosel, a credentialed NBA reporter, about the Pelicans' head coaching search.

LSU sports reporter Zack Nagy joined Sports Talk. Nagy broke down LSU football's latest recruiting additions: JUCO CB Lavonte Williams and Ruston five-star TE Ahmad Hudson.

Mike and Charlie interviewed LSU sports reporter Zack Nagy and Sean Fox, the Sports Director of Sports Talk 97.7. Nagy broke down LSU football's latest recruiting additions: JUCO CB Lavonte Williams and Ruston five-star TE Ahmad Hudson. Fox, who covered Hudson at Ruston, evaluated the Tigers' talented addition.

LSU sports reporter Zack Nagy joined Sports Talk. Nagy broke down LSU football's latest recruiting additions: JUCO CB Lavonte Williams and Ruston five-star TE Ahmad Hudson.

Sermon from Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana Speaker: Rev. Doug de Graffenried — If you're new or listening for the first time, we'd love to connect: http://bit.ly/392sC6a Learn more about Trinity: http://trinityruston.org 

What does it really mean to be free in Christ? #trinityruston #livedeeper #reachwider Follow us online – https://www.trinityruston.org In this episode of the Going Deeper Podcast, Kyle is joined by Becky and Katie for a conversation about Romans 8, Hebrews 11, 1 John, 1 Corinthians 13, and the practical shape of the Christian life. Together, they talk about why God's boundaries are not meant to limit us, how faith grows even through imperfect people, why Scripture matters for everyday life, and how the light and love of Jesus shine through us when we stay connected to Him. This conversation also touches on parenting, worship, children's ministry, community, and the simple but powerful reminder that we are weak, but He is strong. Scripture discussed: Romans 8, Hebrews 11, 1 John, 1 Corinthians 13 Topics: Freedom in Christ, faith, discipleship, Scripture, parenting, worship, Christian community If this conversation encouraged you, share it with someone who may need the reminder that true freedom is found in Jesus. The Going Deeper Podcast is a ministry of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana and is designed to help people Learn and apply God's Word in everyday life. Through thoughtful conversation and biblical insight, we explore the larger story of Scripture and how it shapes our faith today. If you want to grow deeper in your understanding of the Bible and your relationship with God, this podcast is for you.  Send an email to askgoingdeeper@gmail.com. Going Deeper is a podcast ministry of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, LA, helping us L.I.V.E. by learning and applying God's Word through faithful Christian Bible study and real-life conversation.

Sermon from Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana Speakers: Avery Madden and Ella Kate Whitaker — If you're new or watching with us for the first time, we'd love to connect: http://bit.ly/392sC6a Learn more about Trinity: http://trinityruston.org

Sermon from Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana Speaker: Rev. Doug de Graffenried Scripture: Romans 8:1-8 In Romans 8, Paul reminds us that freedom in Christ is not something we achieve, but something we receive. This sermon explores the difference between legalism and grace, between transactional religion and life in the Spirit, and what it means to truly live as people who have been set free. Because of Jesus, we are no longer defined by condemnation, shame, or performance, but by the unwavering love of God. — If you're new or watching with us for the first time, we'd love to connect: http://bit.ly/392sC6a Learn more about Trinity: https://www.trinityruston.org

When your child breaks a rule or misbehaves, do you feel unsure what consequences to impose? Do you avoid discipline altogether, or worry your responses are too harsh? Dr. Ruston talks about this with Tammy Fisher Huson, PhD, a beloved school counselor, trainer of counselors, and the author of two books: Fearless Parenting and There's Always Something Going Right. Tammy provides a roadmap for addressing broken rules and digs into consequences for real scenarios. For example, when a teen spends excessive time with an AI companion through video gaming, another who secretly subscribed to Snapchat Plus on a parent's credit card, and a child who lies about homework. Huson also offers advice to parents when their kid gets into trouble at school.   Expert: Tammy Fisher Huson, PhD   Books: Fearless Parenting, Stepping Into Life's Greatest Role Using The Nurtured Heart Approach by Tammy Fisher Huson There's Always Something Going Right: Workbook for Creating Truly Great Schools by Tammy Fisher Huson and Louisa Triandis   Additional Resources: Data From 50 States: Teachers See Student Behavior as a Significant Problem, in Education Week, March 13, 2026 Screenagers Website Bring Screenagers to Your Community   Time Code: 00:00 Welcome and Topic Setup 01:53 Consequences as Privileges 03:34 Partnering With Schools 06:22 Snap Plus Credit Card Lesson 07:49 Let Teens Choose Consequences 12:52 Sponsor Break Screenagers Films 13:42 Homework Lies and Curiosity 15:41 Menu of Choices and Earning Back 19:13 AI Companions and Tough Limits 23:25 Village Support and Wrap Up 25:27 Final Thanks and Subscribe

The early church didn't start with strategy—it started with fire. #trinityruston #livedeeper #reachwider Follow us online – https://www.trinityruston.org n this episode of Going Deeper, we explore the book of Acts, the power and presence of the Holy Spirit, and the radical transformation of Paul. But more than that, we wrestle with what it means for the Church today—especially for the next generation. Are we missing something? Are we going deep enough? And what does it really look like to live out a Spirit-filled faith in a world that's constantly pulling us the other direction? Join us as we go deeper.

So much for playing a (potential) 20-game football season this year for Louisiana Tech University! Bulldogs fans can breathe a rather expensive $8 million sigh of relief after the school and Conference USA have apparently come to terms on a long-awaited exit agreement. This will allow Louisiana Tech to officially begin play in the Sunbelt Conference beginning with this fall’s college football season. The national news media enjoyed a not-that-funny field day making jokes about how Louisiana Tech might play a 20-game schedule this fall.  Conference USA and the Sunbelt Conference each released their football schedules in March which featured the Bulldogs participating in games in both conferences this fall. It started when Conference USA posted a 2026 fall football schedule on March 12 which included Louisiana Tech.  The Bulldogs have been a part of Conference USA since 2013.  However, the school gave notice to C-USA last summer that the Bulldogs intended to leave and join the geographically-closer group of schools in the Sunbelt Conference. Not to be outdone, the Sunbelt Conference released its own 2026 fall football schedule – including Louisiana Tech – the following day on March 13. A quick review of those two football schedules meant that the Bulldogs might have to play a 20-game football schedule this fall! A very creative sportswriter in Shreveport recently came up with a plan where Louisiana Tech could possibly play all 20 games this fall by utilizing a split-squad on a couple of occasions.  With 20 possible football games, the Bulldogs might be able to post the school’s first 10-win season and secure a top bowl invitation! The deal is not official – yet A few news outlets reported Tuesday that Louisiana Tech will open its wallet to pay Conference USA over $8 million to exit the league in order to join the Sunbelt Conference this fall. If you would like some history as to how this began, check out my previous posts here and here.  In recent weeks, Louisiana Tech and Conference USA have been at the negotiation table trying to settle this matter via arbitration. Neither Louisiana Tech nor Conference USA have officially announced this settlement agreement or its terms.  Many negotiated settlements include certain provisions which the two parties are required to keep confidential. We may never know the actual amount or how long Louisiana Tech has to pay it. Given the size of the reported settlement, the smiles seem more likely to be coming from Conference USA and its attorneys as many expected the final amount to be in the range of $4-5 million. What is $8 million worth to Louisiana Tech?  Plenty! The Knight Foundation college athletics database showed Louisiana Tech’s total athletics spending in 2024 was $33 million.  Football amounted to $9 million or 27% of the total. By contrast, Louisiana’s football giant LSU showed athletics spending of $221 million in 2024.  Football expenditures were $60 million of the total. To my surprise, football at LSU consumed the same 27% of the total athletics budget as Louisiana Tech’s. Unlike Louisiana Tech, though, LSU’s expensive athletics program has been turning a profit for decades.  The Ruston-based Bulldogs have gone into the red in several recent years. That’s why Louisiana Tech’s willingness to pay a $8 million price tag to exit Conference USA is a bit surprising. Why did Louisiana Tech agree to pay up? The school’s national reputation was on the line if a deal wasn’t consummated this spring. Conference USA’s agreement with Louisiana Tech had specific requirements which the school had to meet in order to exit the contract before its scheduled termination.  One stipulation involved Louisiana Tech giving a minimum notice (rumored to be 14 months) prior to exiting C-USA.  Another required Louisiana Tech to forfeit two years of its share of C-USA media revenues (estimated to be at least $2 million or more per year). For its part, Louisiana Tech watched as former Conference USA members Marshall, Old Dominion, and Southern Miss locked hands and broke away together to join the Sunbelt Conference in 2022. Not only did the exiting trio appear to give less prior notice than Louisiana Tech provided, the word leaked that each party had paid Conference USA about $3 million apiece in order to walk away. It’s quite possible that the leadership at Louisiana Tech expected similar treatment. One thing which most media sources have failed to consider is Conference USA’s current television/media deal with ESPN and CBS Sports Network. The new arrangement began in 2023 – one year after Marshall, Old Dominion, and Southern Miss had already walked away. The current media contract may have included a provision to reduce the annual media revenues to C-USA should any of the league’s then-current members (such as Louisiana Tech) leave the conference prior to the end of the latest media contract. Perhaps Conference USA demanded Louisiana Tech to compensate the remaining group of primary Conference USA members for several years of lost media revenues. Even at $8 million, should this be considered a good deal for Louisiana Tech? In the short term, it appears that the proverbial cart got before the horse. The $8 million price tag was a very steep price to pay for a school leaving a declining mid-major athletics conference to join a rising mid-major conference like the Sunbelt. Anyone looking to point fingers should start with Louisiana Tech’s decision makers.  Many openly expressed their desire to join the Sunbelt Conference months ahead of the official announcement last July.  Nearly everyone wanted to see the Bulldogs renew their old rivalries, save significantly on travel expenses, and retain top athlete-students. This fall’s move to the Sunbelt Conference will be a very positive moment for Louisiana Tech athletics.  The $8 million price tag must be amortized over a period of more than just a few years in order to feel better about the short-term financial pain. I have been a long-time critic of Conference USA’s rinky-dink October mid-week college football games.  Bulldogs fans cringed as their Saturday home games were moved to Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday nights during October purely for television. This was done to quench the media’s insatiable desire to show competitive football on television (and reap the advertising benefits) seven nights per week during fall’s pre-Christmas advertising blitz. Sports fans of the ULM Warhawks and Louisiana’s Ragin’ Cajuns will be thrilled to have Louisiana Tech join their athletics conference.  Those two Sunbelt schools will see higher attendance and lower travel costs for all sporting events involving Louisiana Tech beginning this fall. The unfortunate downside of this expensive buyout is whether Louisiana Tech failed to fully understand its existing contract agreement with Conference USA. Someone at the school had to have established a value representing the worst-case scenario of the potential exit costs prior to making a deal to join the Sunbelt Conference.  A good attorney should have flagged the potential worst-case possibilities as well. It appeared that the school expected to make a reasonable exit deal ($3 million) similar to what Marshall, Old Dominion, and Southern Miss accomplished in 2022. Last July’s announcement decision by Louisiana Tech to join the Sunbelt Conference “no later than 2027” almost immediately started the clock running on legal fees. Conference USA sued Louisiana Tech in state court months later in November.  Tech countered with their own suit against C-USA in early 2026.  Recent weeks of arbitration and settlement discussions have been ringing up even more legal bills. In the end, Conference USA “won” its $8 million, but that’s about it Nothing against other long-time Conference USA members such as Western Kentucky, Florida International, and Middle Tennessee State, but Louisiana Tech carried the most recognizable national sports footprint in C-USA in recent years. Conference USA will no longer be able to claim the school whose athletics history includes Hall-of-Famers such as football’s Terry Bradshaw and Willie Roaf. The same goes for basketball Hall-of-Famers Karl Malone and women’s point guard-turned-four-time national championship coach Kim Mulkey. Conference USA’s far-flung geography was a big factor in Louisiana Tech’s decision to move to the Sunbelt.  Liberty University in Virginia and the University of Delaware are both more than 1,000 miles northeast of Ruston, Louisiana.  To the west, New Mexico State in Las Cruces is 936 miles away. By contrast, Louisiana Tech will become a member of the Sunbelt Conference Western Division. That means playing intrastate rivals UL-Monroe (35 miles east of Ruston) and UL-Lafayette (185 miles to the south).  Other Sunbelt West partners include Southern Miss in Hattiesburg (240 miles), Arkansas State in Jonesboro (300 miles), South Alabama in Mobile (340 miles) and Troy (440 miles away in southern Alabama). Louisiana Tech Bulldogs sports teams spent $5 million during 2024 on game expenses and travel as a member of Conference USA.  The school could save $1 million or more annually on reduced travel expenses as a member of the Sunbelt Conference Western Division. Louisiana Tech sports fans will now get to enjoy a Saturday, October 10 home college football visit from in-state rival UL-Lafayette. The following week will have the Bulldogs taking a short trip down I-20 to Monroe.  This much-anticipated football game against the ULM Warhawks will fill Monroe’s Malone Stadium on Saturday, October 17. Had the Bulldogs remained in Conference USA, their October football schedule would have included a Thursday night game followed by three consecutive Wednesday night contests.  The league’s annual “made-for-midweek-TV” October schedule would make any serious football program want to leave C-USA at the first opportunity. In all fairness, the move to the Sunbelt wasn’t likely worth $8 million, either. At least this year’s new Sunbelt football schedule (especially during the month of October) will be a nice down payment to build years of renewed fan interest in Louisiana Tech athletics. Go, Dogs, Go! The post Go, Dogs, Go! appeared first on SwampSwamiSports.com.

On today's episode, we discuss what a healthy, biblical church actually looks like, as James, Jimmy Williams, Chris “the giant preacher” Witt, Glenn, and Mark debate the roles of pastors, teachers, evangelists, and ordinary members in making real disciples instead of passive spectators. Jimmy argues from Ephesians 4 that “pastor‑teacher” is one calling whose job is to equip believers for works of service, and he critiques churches that entertain crowds on Sunday but never actually train people to pray, study Scripture, or discover their ministry, sharing his own experience teaching welcome classes, adult Sunday school, and home groups without canned curriculum. Chris counters that pastors also must be visionary leaders, telling stories from Cabin Creek, West Virginia and decades in Ruston where bold, confrontational preaching, constant altar calls, and “big days” on holidays grew congregations and produced visible conversions, insisting that if a church isn't increasing, something is wrong in the mirror, not just the pews. Glenn brings in his leadership and systems lens, arguing that churches need structures of repetition and discipline—weekly worship, daily habits, and identity‑shaping practices—so believers don't become “spiritual trash compactors” who only hear truth but never do it, and Jimmy presses that if longtime deacons still “aren't comfortable praying out loud,” that's a failure of pastoral discipleship, not just personal shyness. The conversation closes with practical tests—like whether there'd be “enough evidence to convict you” of being a Christian if it became illegal, and whether you choose Christ over family, comfort, or culture—as the group agrees that every believer has a specific ministry, pastors will answer for how well they equip people to do it, and that numbers matter only if they represent growing, serving disciples, not just bigger audiences. Don't miss it!

From the Garden of Gethsemane to the empty tomb, we walk through the arrest, trial, crucifixion, and resurrection of Jesus, unpacking what these events mean for us today. #trinityruston #livedeeper #reachwider Follow us online – https://www.trinityruston.org In this episode of Going Deeper, we explore one of the most important questions in the Christian faith: Who did Jesus claim to be—and why does it matter? The Going Deeper Podcast is a ministry of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana and is designed to help people Learn and apply God's Word in everyday life. Through thoughtful conversation and biblical insight, we explore the larger story of Scripture and how it shapes our faith today. If you want to grow deeper in your understanding of the Bible and your relationship with God, this podcast is for you. Do you have questions for us? Send an email to askgoingdeeper@gmail.com. Going Deeper is a podcast ministry of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, LA, helping us L.I.V.E. by learning and applying God's Word through faithful Christian Bible study and real-life conversation.

Sermon from Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana Speaker: Rev. Doug de Graffenried Scripture: Acts 27:21-25 This message explores the difference between a transactional faith (earning “God points”) and a transformational faith that rests in grace. Because storms don't wait for permission—and they don't follow your calendar—but God is never surprised. — If you're new or watching with us for the first time, we'd love to connect: http://bit.ly/392sC6a Learn more about Trinity: http://trinityruston.org 

Sermon from Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana Speaker: Rev. Doug de Graffenried Scripture: John 20:1–10   Before the sun rises… before the disciples understand… before anyone believes—God has already moved.  In this message, we see how the resurrection begins in the dark. Through Mary's grief, Peter's failure, and the disciples' confusion, we're reminded that hope doesn't wait for clarity—it meets us right where we are. — If you're new or watching with us for the first time, we'd love to connect: http://bit.ly/392sC6a Learn more about Trinity: http://trinityruston.org

Is faith about following rules, or having a relationship with God? In this episode of the Going Deeper Podcast, Kyle, Doug, and Marie talk about Moses and the Exodus and how God's plan for saving his people reveals how he wants a relationship with his people more than he wants a nation of rule followers. #trinityruston #livedeeper #reachwider Follow us online – https://www.trinityruston.org The Going Deeper Podcast is a ministry of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana and is designed to help people Learn and apply God's Word in everyday life. Through thoughtful conversation and biblical insight, we explore the larger story of Scripture and how it shapes our faith today. If you want to grow deeper in your understanding of the Bible and your relationship with God, this podcast is for you. Do you have questions for us? Send an email to askgoingdeeper@gmail.com. Going Deeper is a podcast ministry of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, LA, helping us L.I.V.E. by learning and applying God's Word through faithful Christian Bible study and real-life conversation.

Is faith about following rules, or having a relationship with God? In this episode of the Going Deeper Podcast, Kyle, Doug, and Melanie explore the stories of Genesis and the messy family dynamics of Abraham, Isaac, Jacob, and Joseph. The Bible doesn't hide human flaws, yet through broken people and difficult circumstances we see a faithful God working out His plan. Join us as we discuss forgiveness, surrender, and how God continues to work through imperfect people.   #trinityruston #livedeeper #reachwider   Follow us online – https://www.trinityruston.org   The Going Deeper Podcast is a ministry of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana and is designed to help people Learn and apply God's Word in everyday life. Through thoughtful conversation and biblical insight, we explore the larger story of Scripture and how it shapes our faith today. If you want to grow deeper in your understanding of the Bible and your relationship with God, this podcast is for you. Do you have questions for us? Send an email to askgoingdeeper@gmail.com. Going Deeper is a podcast ministry of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, LA, helping us L.I.V.E. by learning and applying God's Word through faithful Christian Bible study and real-life conversation.

What do you really believe about Jesus—and why does it matter? #trinityruston #livedeeper #reachwider Follow us online – https://www.trinityruston.org In this episode of Going Deeper, Kyle and Doug explore the life of Jesus through the Gospels and unpack one of the most important questions anyone can ever answer: Who do you say that Jesus is? From the unique perspectives of Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John to the deeply personal nature of faith, this conversation challenges the idea of secondhand belief and invites you into something real and transformative. Whether your faith has been a lifelong journey or a sudden turning point, this episode will help you reflect on what it truly means to follow Jesus. The Going Deeper Podcast is a ministry of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana and is designed to help people Learn and apply God's Word in everyday life. Through thoughtful conversation and biblical insight, we explore the larger story of Scripture and how it shapes our faith today. If you want to grow deeper in your understanding of the Bible and your relationship with God, this podcast is for you. Do you have questions for us? Send an email to askgoingdeeper@gmail.com. Going Deeper is a podcast ministry of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, LA, helping us L.I.V.E. by learning and applying God's Word through faithful Christian Bible study and real-life conversation.

In this episode of Going Deeper, we explore what it really means to be called by God—and why that calling often feels overwhelming, uncomfortable, and even a little terrifying. #trinityruston #livedeeper #reachwider Follow us online – https://www.trinityruston.org Looking at the stories of Isaiah and Jeremiah, we see two people who didn't feel ready, qualified, or worthy… yet God called them anyway. From Isaiah's “woe is me” moment to Jeremiah's hesitation, we wrestle with the same question today:

In this episode of Going Deeper, we explore the full story of David—from the courage of Goliath to the failure with Bathsheba—and what it reveals about faith, repentance, and God's grace. #trinityruston #livedeeper #reachwider Follow us online – https://www.trinityruston.org The Going Deeper Podcast is a ministry of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana and is designed to help people Learn and apply God's Word in everyday life. Through thoughtful conversation and biblical insight, we explore the larger story of Scripture and how it shapes our faith today. If you want to grow deeper in your understanding of the Bible and your relationship with God, this podcast is for you. Do you have questions for us? Send an email to askgoingdeeper@gmail.com. Going Deeper is a podcast ministry of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, LA, helping us L.I.V.E. by learning and applying God's Word through faithful Christian Bible study and real-life conversation.

Caroline Fraser joins the Coming From Left Field podcast to discuss "Murderland: Crime and Bloodlust in the Time of Serial Killers," her genre-bending blend of true crime, environmental muckraking, and personal memoir about growing up near Tacoma's Asarco smelter in the heyday of Ted Bundy and other Pacific Northwest serial killers. Drawing on research about lead and arsenic exposure, brain science, and corporate archives, Fraser argues that heavy metal poisoning, especially from smelters and leaded gasoline, helped shape an era of unprecedented violent crime, while corporations and regulators concealed what they knew to protect profits. The conversation ranges from the company town politics of Ruston and Kellogg, Idaho, to bankruptcy scams that left taxpayers with Superfund bills, to gendered effects of lead on male and female brains, and the cultural fascination with serial killers. Along the way, Fraser and the hosts connect Murderland to earlier work like Prairie Fires, to Frank Herbert's Dune as an industrial-ecological parable rooted in Tacoma, and to today's fights over toxic redevelopment and AI-era data centers, which repeat the same jobs-versus-health trade-offs.   Caroline Fraser is an American nonfiction writer and literary critic best known for her Pulitzer Prize–winning biography “Prairie Fires: The American Dreams of Laura Ingalls Wilder.” Born in Seattle to a Christian Science family, she graduated from Mercer Island High School and later earned a Ph.D. in English and American literature from Harvard University, writing her dissertation on the poet James Merrill. Fraser previously worked on the editorial staff of The New Yorker and has written for publications such as The New Yorker, The New York Review of Books, The Atlantic Monthly, Outside Magazine, and the London Review of Books. She is the author of several major nonfiction books: “God's Perfect Child: Living and Dying in the Christian Science Church,” a critical history and memoir about Christian Science; “Rewilding the World: Dispatches from the Conservation Revolution,” on global conservation; “Prairie Fires,” which won the 2018 Pulitzer Prize and 2017 National Book Critics Circle Award in Biography;   Resources: Order the book: https://kingsbookstore.com/book/9780593657225   Webpage: https://www.carolinefraser.net/   Greg's Blog: http://zzs-blg.blogspot.com/ Pat's Substack: https://patcummings.substack.com/   #murderland#CarolineFraser#environmentaljustice#leadpoisoning#serialkillers#arseniccontamination#Asarcosmelter#RustonWashington#TacomaWashington#BunkerHillKelloggIdaho#corporatecrime#latecapitalism#structuralviolence#brainscienceandcrime#frontallobedamage#leadandviolentcrime#Superfundsites#DuneFrankHerbert#LauraIngallsWilder#TedBundy#GaryRidgway#PatCummings#PatrickCummings#GregGodels#ZZBlog#ComingFromLeftField#Podcast#zzblog#mltoday

Confused about ADHD or looking for effective ways to support a child or teen? Dr. Ruston is joined by Erin Schoenfelder Gonzalez, PhD, a clinical psychologist at Seattle Children's Hospital, who explains how ADHD is diagnosed and how symptoms evolve from childhood through adolescence. They explore both the strengths and challenges associated with the condition. The episode focuses on research-based strategies that parents and other adults can use to support youth, including "point-of-performance" actions, preventing "dopamine cliffs," and other approaches for managing screen time, physical activity, and sleep. Dr. Schoenfelder Gonzalez also shares her work developing FAST (First Approach Skills Training), a free, evidence-based program designed to give parents practical tools to support youth with ADHD and other conditions.   Featured Expert‍ Erin Schoenfelder Gonzalez, PhD ‍ Research References Sibley, M. et al. Non-pharmacological interventions for attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder in children and adolescents. Lancet Child & Adolescent Health. 2023 Sharma, A. et al. Stimulant medications affect arousal and reward, not attention networks. Cell, 2025.   Resources‍ Fast Approach Skills Training Program   ‍Additional Resources Screenagers Website Bring Screenagers to Your Community‍ ‍‍‍‍ Time Code 00:00 Welcome and Topic Setup 01:34 Meet Dr Erin Felder Gonzalez 02:37 Why ADHD Not ADD 03:33 ADHD Across Ages 08:14 Motivation and Reward Brain 09:53 Explaining ADHD Positively 11:59 ADHD and Mood Struggles 12:59 Screenagers Films Break 13:49 Parent Training Big Picture 17:10 Positive Reinforcement Skills 18:50 Family Media Plan Basics 21:59 Handling Screen Limit Pushback 24:50 Transitions and Consequences 27:10 Choosing Better Content 29:06 Physical Activity in Teens 31:26 Sleep Challenges and Tips 34:51 ADHD Brain Differences 36:54 FAST Program Resources 37:52 Community Support and Wrap 39:19 Final Thanks and Subscribe

In episode 240 of the Transition Drill Podcast explores military transition, identity, and skill translation for veterans and first responders navigating life after high-tempo service. You'll hear Tod Neal on the loss of tribe, the challenge of making military experience understandable in the civilian world, and what it takes to build a meaningful second chapter without losing yourself in the process.Tod Neal's story starts far from the life he'd eventually build. He grew up in Ruston, Louisiana, spent part of his youth in a children's home, and learned early that structure mattered. After struggling in school, finding direction, and then losing his footing again in college, he joined the Navy in 1991 looking for discipline, purpose, and a better path. What followed wasn't a straight line. He spent his first years in the Navy doing admin work, but kept pushing toward the things that pulled at him most, including diving, shooting, and jobs that demanded more of him than his official title suggested.That drive eventually led him into Navy EOD. After leaving active duty and entering the reserves, 9/11 changed everything. He was called back, went deeper into EOD, and moved from the desk into the fight. He deployed with SEAL teams, served through repeated combat rotations, and built a career around risk, precision, and protecting lives. Along the way, he saw the cost of war up close, not just in combat, but at home. He talks about the toll of multiple deployments, the strain on marriages and families, and the way years of service can quietly take time from your children that you never get back.What makes this conversation hit is that it doesn't stop at the war years. Tod gets into the harder part for a lot of veterans and first responders, figuring out who you are when the uniform comes off. He talks about The Honor Foundation, USC, learning that money and title weren't the real non-negotiables, and realizing that the people you work with matter more than the paycheck. He also gets brutally honest about transition itself. You can have technical skill, leadership, problem solving, and years of experience, but if you can't translate it, civilian employers won't see it. If you can't manage your ego, you'll make the process even harder. And if you don't build a new tribe on purpose, you can end up isolated fast.This is a grounded conversation about service, humility, transition, and learning how to carry your experience forward without expecting the next chapter to look like the last one.CONNECT WITH THE PODCAST:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/paulpantani/WEBSITE: https://www.transitiondrillpodcast.comLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/paulpantani/SIGN-UP FOR THE NEWSLETTER:https://transitiondrillpodcast.com/home#aboutQUESTIONS OR COMMENTS:paul@transitiondrillpodcast.comSPONSORS:GRND CollectiveGet 15% off your purchaseLink: https://thegrndcollective.com/Promo Code: TRANSITION15Blue Line RoastingGet 10% off your purchaseLink: https://bluelineroasting.comPromocode: Transition10Frontline OpticsGet 10% off your purchaseLink: https://frontlineoptics.comPromocode: Transition10

On today's episode, we discuss Glenn's still‑missing Cyberbeast, how a post‑order price cut on Cybertrucks suddenly flooded Tesla with demand, and why his promised March 16 delivery date has quietly slipped toward late April or early May. The crew teases Glenn about paying a hefty down payment without even having a VIN yet, trading jokes about whether his truck has been “born” while they keep spotting new, non‑Beast Cybertrucks cruising around Ruston. Glenn explains the differences between regular Foundation Series trucks and the fully loaded Beast—with off‑road hardware and subtle badging that's hard to spot unless you're right up on it. They also get into the quirks of stainless‑steel exteriors, why Glenn plans to wrap his truck in satin black with a protective ceramic layer, and how that kills James's dream of a raw‑steel “Back to the Future”‑style time‑machine look. A detour into music history follows, as they reminisce about Blondie, Deborah Harry, early rock‑rap crossovers, and the 80s glam and grunge acts Rush Limbaugh once roasted. Throughout, the conversation blends consumer‑law style questions about deposits and delivery promises with pop‑culture riffs, friendly ribbing, and James's pledge to adopt a Rush‑style “stack of stuff” and a stopwatch so the show actually ends on time. Don't miss it!

Sermon from Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, Louisiana. Speaker: Brad Mc Kenzie Scripture: 1 Samuel 16:1-13 — If you're new or watching with us for the first time, we'd love to connect with you: http://bit.ly/392sC6a Learn more about Trinity or find ways to get involved: http://trinityruston.org

Director of On-Campus Recruiting for Louisiana Tech Football Jenna Latour is an absolute joy. She just completed her first season running point on so many different logistical facets of Bulldogs football, including rolling out the red carpet for recruits. There's so much more, though, that she's responsible for. Jenna shares her enthusiasm for her young career in a space less populated by women and how a unique networking connection landed the Tennessee native in Ruston.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

What are the risks of regularly handing an upset child a screen to soothe them? How can we help younger kids handle their big emotions related to screen time rules? How can you get evidence-based answers to any screen time question, straight from the AAP? Dr. Ruston speaks with pediatricians and researchers Dr. Megan Moreno and Dr. Jenny Radesky, who helped launch and now oversee the American Academy of Pediatrics' Center of Excellence on Social Media and Youth Mental Health. Dr. Moreno is a professor of pediatrics at the University of Wisconsin–Madison and co-medical director of the center. Dr. Radesky is an associate professor of pediatrics at the University of Michigan Medical School and director of the Division of Developmental Behavioral Pediatrics. Together, they share their research and insights on children, screens, and how families can get trusted guidance from the American Academy of Pediatrics.   Featured Experts Megan Moreno, MD Jenny Radesky, MD   Resources The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) Center of Excellence  on Social Media and Youth Mental Health The AAP's Family Media Plan Tool   ‍Additional Resources Screenagers Website Bring Screenagers to Your Community   Time Code 00:00 Meet the Experts 00:28 Megan's Early Social Media Cases 01:36 Jenny's Relational Health Lens 02:33 Screens as Regulation Research 04:50 Calm Without the iPad 08:14 AAP Family Media Plan 10:48 Problem Solving With Fast Tech 13:24 Key Rules for Teens 16:19 Content Choices for Little Kids

The traditional March 1 release of the Sunbelt Conference fall football schedule has been delayed. According to one source, the league is waiting for incoming new member Louisiana Tech University to resolve its legal issues with its current affiliate, Conference USA. The Sunbelt Conference lost Texas State University to the Mountain West Conference beginning this fall.  That leaves a vacancy in the Sunbelt’s Western Division. That’s where Louisiana Tech was expected to step-in this fall. Except… The Bulldogs from Ruston, Louisiana remain in a legal “dog house” with their long-time partner, Conference USA. Until that issue is solved in the courthouse or out in the hallways with a big sack of cash, Louisiana Tech’s predicament has other members of the Sunbelt Conference twiddling their thumbs waiting for a final resolution. The Sunbelt Conference currently has 14 members.  Seven schools are in the Eastern Conference and seven are currently in the West.  However, Texas State is bolting for the Mountain West after baseball season ends. That leaves just six teams in the West if Louisiana Tech is unable to work out a suitable exit deal with Conference USA soon. The Sunbelt Conference wants to avoid having an “unbalanced” schedule in 2026 with seven East teams and only six in the West if Louisiana Tech doesn’t come aboard this fall. What a mess!  How did we get here? On July 15, 2025, a big celebration in Ruston was held announcing that Louisiana Tech was moving from Conference USA to the Sunbelt Conference no later than the fall of 2027.  The expectation was (and still is) that a deal could be reached with Conference USA which would allow Louisiana Tech to begin Sunbelt play this fall in 2026. As of today, neither Conference USA nor the Sunbelt Conference have released their 2026 football schedules.  That’s because no one knows where Louisiana Tech will be playing football and other sports beginning this fall. The Bulldogs joined Conference USA in 2013.  This rather far-flung conference was considered (at the time) to be a good fit. Prominent C-USA members in 2013 included UAB, Florida Atlantic, Marshall University, UNC-Charlotte, North Texas, Rice University, Old Dominion, Southern Miss, and UT-San Antonio. Every one of those nine schools has vacated C-USA in the past four years to join either the American Athletic Conference or the Sunbelt Conference. The University of Texas-El Paso (UTEP) will become yet another major defection from C-USA beginning this fall.  The Miners (members of Conference USA since 2005) are joining the Mountain West Conference (like Texas State of the Sunbelt Conference). Why did all of those teams leave C-USA? The television and media revenue offered by other conferences was substantially more than Conference USA’s most recent media contract to pay to its member schools. A majority of Louisiana Tech’s athletic supporters are ready to skedaddle from Conference USA’s geographically expansive league as quickly as possible. C-USA has added schools in recent years such as Liberty University (Lynchburg, Virginia – 1,000 miles from Ruston, LA) and the University of Delaware (1,321 miles each way from Ruston). Joining the Sunbelt Conference will allow Louisiana Tech to renew regional rivalries with UL-Monroe (35 miles via I-20), UL-Lafayette (185 miles south of Ruston), and even Southern Miss (240 miles to the southeast in Hattiesburg).  The travel savings for Louisiana Tech (along with the other Sunbelt schools) will be substantial across all sports. But… Athletic conferences and member schools sign long-term affiliation contracts which require a minimum notice period along with a hefty exit fee to allow the school to leave before the primary term ends. A payment of several million dollars for early termination is likely required for Louisiana Tech to leave Conference USA. With so many other universities bolting from Conference USA in recent years, the conference has pocketed millions in early exit fees.  They should be able to afford the finest attorneys to protect their best interests in court, if necessary. The other teams’ departures have left Louisiana Tech as one of C-USA’s top remaining draws. Conference USA appears to have no financial incentive to budge when it comes to allowing Louisiana Tech out of its contract. The Bulldogs’ departure could significantly diminish the current media value of Conference USA’s contract with its TV partners. C-USA signed a five-year media deal with CBS Sports Network and ESPN beginning in the fall of 2023.  That new media deal was signed around the same time that three former C-USA members (Marshall, Old Dominion, and Southern Miss) negotiated their own early exit deal to join the Sunbelt Conference in 2023. What if Conference USA’s current media deal calls for a payment reduction if one of its primary institutions (such as Louisiana Tech) left during the term of that contract? Keep that in mind as this game plays out. Then there is the issue of prior notice required to leave Conference USA According to previous reports, Conference USA’s agreement with Louisiana Tech required 14 months prior written notice.  Since Tech gave C-USA notice on or about July 15, 2025, that 14 month period will not be satisfied until September 15, 2026 (a few weeks into the 2026 football season). Most major college football conferences allow their teams to open with a series of non-conference opponents. Last fall, both the Sunbelt Conference and Conference USA member schools did not play their first conference game until Week #4 (Saturday, September 20, 2025). Based on this year’s calendar, Louisiana Tech could, conceivably, begin as a Sunbelt member in time for Week #4 on Saturday, September 26, 2026. But then… Conference USA surprised Louisiana Tech by filing a lawsuit in the state of Louisiana in November, 2025. The lawsuit asserted that Louisiana Tech misled Conference USA by intentionally delaying its exit announcement (mid-July, 2025) until after the school had already cashed its annual media revenue check from C-USA paid in late June. In addition to providing 14 months prior notice to leave, Louisiana Tech’s contract with Conference USA apparently called for the school to forfeit its share of media revenue (estimated at $3 to $4 million annually) for two years. Conference USA claims that Louisiana Tech (theoretically knowing that it was planning to leave C-USA) erred by accepting and cashing the late June media check. Are you confused enough yet? There has been very little news since Conference USA filed that lawsuit in November, 2025.  One local news outlet reported in mid-January that “conversations remain ongoing between C-USA and Louisiana Tech on a negotiated exit fee settlement”. That sounds nice, but we’re now into the month of March. The Sunbelt Conference football schedule remains on hold.  Conference USA’s football schedule has not been published yet, either.  However, Louisiana Tech’s logo remains firmly atop the C-USA athletics page banner even today. Conference USA is in no hurry to resolve this issue.  The conference “wins” if Louisiana Tech is forced to remain a part of the league (and part of its media agreement) through the 2026-2027 athletics year. Some good news and bad news Conference USA allowed the trio of Marshall, Old Dominion, and Southern Miss to exit prior to the start of the 2023 football season after they provided less than 12 months’ prior notice.  The three schools were able to negotiate a financial settlement with C-USA and left for greener pastures. That would seem encouraging to supporters of Louisiana Tech’s exit – even at this late hour. However, the departure of Marshall, Old Dominion, and Southern Miss came around the same time that C-USA’s was signing its new media deal with CBS Sports Network and ESPN. Louisiana Tech has been playing football in the major college division since 1987. It is now a nationally known sports brand. Conference USA likely touted Louisiana Tech as one of its (pardon my pun again) “big dogs” in the league’s new media package starting in 2023. There is a chance that implications with C-USA’s media contract may (or may not) become another snag in the negotiations between the conference and Louisiana Tech. Conference USA can afford to wait this game out.  They have no reason to budge anytime soon. Louisiana Tech has a tough and expensive business decision to make It can opt to pony-up and pay a ransom to exit Conference USA to join the Sunbelt this fall. This might involve the school’s major athletics donors, bankers, and (perhaps) even a Sunbelt Conference “angel” to help finance a loan to be paid-back through future Sunbelt media revenues. Or Louisiana Tech can say that the early exit price being asked by C-USA was simply too high.  Fans and alumni (like me) would be disappointed in having to wait until 2027 to begin Sunbelt Conference play in football.  Future Sunbelt intrastate foes like UL-Monroe and UL-Lafayette will also lose by such a delay. It’s time to make a deal – or not – quickly. We can handle the truth! The post Louisiana Tech – Who’ll Let the Dogs Out? appeared first on SwampSwamiSports.com.

Associate Athletic Director for Internal Operations Wyatt Olson is a hoot. Not only is he wearing nearly every different hat at various phases throughout his days in the Tech athletic department, he's finishing his doctoral research and preparing for a summer wedding. From Wisconsin, the former collegiate baseball player has laid down Ruston roots and is constantly working to maximize his professional and personal potential. Olson delivers his unique story, love for the university and community, and relentless pursuit of bettering himself each.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

In this episode of Going Deeper, we begin our study of the Top Ten Bible Stories by exploring Genesis 1–11. Why does the beginning matter? How do creation, chaos, and hope shape the rest of Scripture—and our own lives? Join the conversation as we look at why Genesis still matters today. #trinityruston #livedeeper #reachwider Follow us online – https://www.trinityruston.org In this episode of Going Deeper, we begin our Christian Bible study series on the Top Ten Bible Stories by examining Genesis 1–11—the creation story, the fall, the flood, and the Tower of Babel. These foundational chapters of the Book of Genesis shape the entire story of Scripture, pointing us toward God's work of bringing order out of chaos and ultimately toward Christ. At Trinity Methodist Church, our mission to L.I.V.E. begins with Learning and applying God's Word, and studying Genesis helps us understand who we are, why the world is broken, and how we faithfully respond as stewards of God's story. Whether you are new to Bible study or have read Genesis many times, this conversation invites you to see why the beginning still matters. Do you have questions for us? Send an email to askgoingdeeper@gmail.com. Going Deeper is a podcast ministry of Trinity Methodist Church in Ruston, LA, helping us L.I.V.E. by learning and applying God's Word through faithful Christian Bible study and real-life conversation.

Matt Miller is a 'Bulldog Man.' The 7th-year assistant and current Associate Pitching Coach details what that honor means to him and more, including his journey from Illinois to Ruston, the Louisiana Tech baseball culture, and helping to continue the build of a Bulldogs powerhouse on the diamond.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Josh Taylor continues to build a Bulldog culture on the diamond at Louisiana Tech. The shift was instant as Taylor took home the first of two Conference USA Coach of the Year honors in his inaugural 2022 campaign guiding Tech softball. And now, that championship from 4 years ago is what will help define the effort and title aspirations for this current crop of 'Dogs. A 4-0 start to the season is just the start, and there's so much balance, youth, experience, and alignment from every corner of the locker room to the field. Taylor tells his story, instilling his vision in Ruston, and why he thinks this year's team is so special.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

A new year and plenty to talk about. Join Alan Gray as he takes you and Thordis on a 'wander' through the plants wowing at East Ruston Old Vicarage this month. PLANT LISTClianthus puniceus ‘Kākā King'Lachenalia rubidaFuchsia 'Wapenveld's Bloei'Tropaeolum majus 'Hermine Grashoff'Tropaeolum majus 'Margaret Long'Tropaeolum majus 'Darjeeling Gold' syn 'Darjeeling Double'Phlebodium aureum 'Davana'Viola hederaceaCarex buchananiiGalanthus plicatus 'Wandlebury Ring'Iris unguicularisIris lazicaNarcissus 'Rijnveld's Early Sensation'Narcissus 'Pueblo'Prunus mume 'Beni-chidori'Malva arborea 'Variegata'Salix alba var. vitellina 'Britzensis'Arum 'Hungarian Rhapsody'Galanthus 'Wasp'Galanthus 'Glimmer of Gold'Galanthus plicatus 'Golden Fleece'Galanthus 'Primrose Warburg'

On today's episode, we discuss James's latest adventures with his Tesla, including how it handles blind pedestrians, misreads faded stop lines, learns to dodge potholes, and occasionally blasts through a Ruston speed trap at 47 in a 35 while he scrambles to correct it. The “fearsome threesome” compare Tesla's different driving modes (from chill to “Mad Max”), explain how Smart Summon and “ASS mode” (Actually Smart Summon) train the car in private lots, and argue that human drivers make far deadlier mistakes even if the car's errors are more noticeable. The conversation then jumps to AI agents, with Mark describing how a Claude-based agent framework accidentally spawned a million‑agent, AI‑only social network that began forming its own “culture,” raising questions about runaway compute costs and what happens when software mostly talks to itself. From there, they dig into data centers and energy: Meta's massive new facility and land buy near Holly Ridge, talk of moving AI compute to space using solar power, and concern over how much national‑debt‑scale capital big tech and Apple (via its QAI acquisition) are about to pour into advanced models and audio “earables.” On the medical front, they highlight emerging tech like MRI-guided cryo-freezing of tumors, speculative “earable” devices that can monitor vitals and deliver drugs, and overhyped claims about brain stimulation that could allegedly “upload” piano pieces or martial arts skills into your nervous system. The episode closes with Bitcoin: they note its slide from around 126,000 to under 70,000, debate four‑year halving cycles, deflationary pressure from AI, the risks of short selling versus prediction markets, and end with the idea that if listeners dabble in crypto at all, it should be for fun money only—not because of anything they hear on this show. Don't miss it!

On today's episode, we discuss James's first full day living with his new Tesla, from accidental 80-mph “hurry mode” on a complex Jackson interchange to the car's eerie ability to catch his mistakes before they become collisions. The hosts describe how Full Self-Driving treats turn-signals, lane changes, parking lots, and even chained-off entrances as “suggestions,” branching through options in real time while still relying on the driver to understand modes and settings much like an aircraft autopilot. They compare slow mall chargers with newer, much faster superchargers in Ruston, detail how Smart Summon and parking-spot “training” work, and recount the car confidently handling ice, snow, and muddy driveways in conditions that would rattle most human drivers. From there, the conversation widens to Elon Musk's broader empire: Cybertruck orders, a planned merger of SpaceX and xAI, plans to move AI compute into space, and speculation that Musk could become more powerful than nation-state leaders because satellites are outside traditional regulatory reach. In geopolitical news, they revisit Trump's pressure campaigns on Venezuela, Cuba, and Iran, Russia's moves in Ukraine, Panama ejecting China from canal contracts, and how “blockade and siege” strategies can topple regimes without direct invasions. Domestic politics center on ICE raids, masked officers, new body-camera requirements, battles over the SAVE Act, real ID, filibuster rules, and the difficulty of preventing election fraud across multiple “vectors” like machines, mail ballots, and lax ID laws. The hosts close with frustration over slow accountability for alleged 2020 election abuses and Epstein-related revelations, but they argue that many cheating methods have been shut down, Trump is still advancing a longer-term plan, and in the meantime at least “the Tesla drives great and PJs coffee is still hot.” Don't miss it!

In this episode, Dr Ruston is joined by journalist and author Catherine Price, author of How To Break Up With Your Phone. They discuss her new book co-authored with Jonathan Haidt, 'The Amazing Generation,' aimed at empowering kids to be tech-savvy and foster real-world connections. The conversation includes practical tips for managing tech use in families and the concept of 'The Rebels Code' for kids to use technology wisely. In addition Price shares details about tech time limits with her 10 year old daughter.   Expert Catherine Price   Books The Amazing Generation by Jonathan Haidt and Catherine Price How To Break Up With Your Phone by Catherine Price   Other Resources Screenagers Website Bring Screenagers to Your Community   Time Code 00:00 Introduction to Parenting in the Screen Age 00:18 Meet Catherine Price: Breaking Up with Your Phone 01:11 The Genesis of The Amazing Generation 04:18 The Structure and Purpose of The Amazing Generation 06:21 Real-Life Applications and Parental Guidance 18:48 Practical Tips for Managing Screen Time 25:28 Conclusion and Resources

Louisiana Tech's Director of Broadcasting Kyle Schassburger might be new to the Tech Family, but he's already proven his loyalty to the red and blue by lending his commentary talents to Bulldog sports and buying in to their mission of excellence. In this episode, he talks about growing up listening to some of the broadcasting greats, finding his passion for making big calls, and why Ruston and Louisiana Tech have quickly become home for him. Website: 1894.latech.edu/beyond/ Email: 1894@latech.edu

Louisiana Tech Hall of Fame Quarterback Luke McCown loves coming back to Ruston. He also LOVES his family. Wound tightly to his faith, McCown shares the story of how he and his wife first met at Tech, broadcasting Bulldog football, and a fruitful life as a career backup in the National Football League.See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Cade Gibson is a Diamond Dog to the core. The former left-handed hurler for the Bulldogs made his MLB debut for the Miami Marlins this past Easter Sunday. Gibson, a Ruston native, reveals the emotions associated with reaching the big leagues, the challenges he overcame, and how those closest to him helped elevate him to baseball's biggest stage. See Privacy Policy at https://art19.com/privacy and California Privacy Notice at https://art19.com/privacy#do-not-sell-my-info.

Dr Ruston speaks with Amy Neville, mother of Alexander Neville who tragically died at age 14 after taking a fentanyl-laced pill he obtained through Snapchat. He thought he was buying an oxycontin but instead the pill was a pill laced with fentanyl.  Amy shares her journey from grief to activism, discussing her efforts to raise awareness about the dangers of social media-facilitated drug deals and her advocacy for stronger accountability from tech companies.  This episode offers insights into the vulnerabilities of teens in the digital world, the current drug crisis, and practical advice for parents on navigating these challenges with their children.   Episode Resources: Alexander Neville Foundation   Additional Resources: How to bring the Screenagers movies to your community Screenagers Website   Time Code: 00:00 Introduction 00:23 The Tragic Story of Alexander Neville 01:30 Alex's Final Days 05:00 Turning Grief into Activism 06:46 Conversations with Teens 10:05 The Role of Snapchat 18:34 Advice for Parents 21:55 Resources and Conclusion

An update from the Seattle mayoral race. EXCLUSIVE: As Washington voted, Secretary Steve Hobbs played board games in Germany on taxpayers’ dime. Guest: Mariah Gondeiro is Litigation Counsel for Liberty Counsel, which is representing a lawsuit against a Washington Law that gutted parents’ rights. // Big Local: A Spokane camping ban is yielding positive results. Spokane Mayor Lisa Brown has proposed a 12% parking tax for businesses. The Ruston city council voted in favor of making it’s ban on alcohol sales after midnight permanent. // You Pick the Topic: A Georgia police officer is under investigation after “misgendering” a man pretending to be a woman using a women’s bathroom.