Finding 44

Larra reunites with Sam and Krissi to reflect on their connection through Andrew and the growth of Project 44, founded after Andrew’s 2016 passing to save lives through bone marrow transplants. Sam shares how grief shaped her life, including years in Indianapolis, moving to Texas, having two sons, and owning a CrossFit gym, while continuing to honor Andrew, including naming a son with Andrew as a...

Julie discusses how her lifelong passion for basketball led to an unplanned but enduring career in sports, including 25 years in college athletics, roles at the NCAA, and leadership as Horizon League commissioner before joining Pacers Sports & Entertainment (PSNE) in Indianapolis after being recruited by CEO Mel Raines.  She reflects on growing opportunities for women in sports leadership, Indiana...

In this episode, Michael Kaltenmark, a Butler University graduate, shares the impact of his two-decade career at Butler, including his pivotal role in advancing the live mascot program and the creation of Project 44. He discusses the deeper connections and lifelong relationships he formed at Butler, which spurred his professional growth.  Michael's narrative also includes his personal journey thro...

In this inspiring conversation, leukemia survivor William Yank shares his remarkable journey from his initial diagnosis during college to his present-day remission.  He details the challenges and treatments he faced, including CAR T-cell therapy and a stem cell transplant from his sister. William credits his optimism and resilience to his strong support system and acceptance of reality, supported...

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and Finding 44 was honored to talk with one of the most prominent champions of mental health, Colts owner and vice-chair, Kalen Jackson. This heartfelt and meaningful conversation centers around the journey and impact of the 'Kicking the Stigma' initiative. Kalen shares the significant strides made in mental health awareness, the importance of open conversatio...

Linda Reich, co-founder of kNot Today, joins us and talks about her journey from supporting her husband's NFL career to becoming a fierce advocate against child exploitation.  Linda reveals the motivation behind starting kNot Today, driven by personal connections to victims of abuse. She discusses the impactful work they're doing, from prevention programs to innovative solutions like canine detect...

Tony Hamilton, a proud Butler University alumnus, shares his incredible journey and connection to Project 44 as a bone marrow donor. Tony reflects on his deep ties to Butler, being part of a 'Butler family,' and recounts the harrowing experience of his wife's battle with lupus and subsequent health challenges soon after their graduation.  This personal history of medical adversity and reliance on...

In this episode, 11-year NBA veteran Scot Pollard opens up about his life-saving heart transplant experience and how he is using his journey to impact others.  Scot discusses the personal challenges he faced during his wife's battle with breast cancer and his own severe heart issues, which led to heart failure and, ultimately, a heart transplant. He shares the emotional ups and downs of his health...

In this episode of 'Finding 44,' Krissi and Larra chat with former professional athletes Jim Sorgi and Joey Vandever, who have found a new purpose post-retirement by launching ProTeam Tactical.  ProTeam Tactical aims to provide elite sports performance-level care to first responders. Inspired by their personal experiences and family ties to the first responder community, Jim and Joey discuss the l...

In this episode of 'Finding 44', Larra and Krissi chat with Megan Connolly, a dynamic personality, former NFL team reporter, and current WWE host. Megan discusses her instant friendship with co-host Larra and their shared passion for running. She recounts her incredible journey, from working with the New England Patriots to her surprising transition to WWE. Megan also shares her remarkable experie...

In this episode of Finding 44, Jordan Cornette, an NBC Sports broadcaster and former athlete, reflects on the various 'seasons' of his life, balancing a demanding sports media career with his roles as a father, husband, and leader of the Joel Cornette Foundation.  Jordan discusses the importance of family and the lasting impact of his late brother Joel, who inspired the foundation's mission to pro...

In the second part of our two-part episode, we continue our in-depth convo with Brad Stevens, the Celtics President of Basketball Operations, talking about the Celtics' recent NBA championship, along with leadership, community, and values.  Brad reflects on his career and impactful time at Butler, including his relationship with the late Andrew Smith and the importance of being a great teammate. H...

In this special, part 1 of 2 episodes, Celtics President of Basketball Operations, Brad Stevens, delves into the intricacies of his career, from winning an NBA championship to managing the demands of the current season.  Brad shares his insights on leadership, team-building, and adapting to new roles, while reflecting on the influence of his past experiences at Butler and his transition from coach...

In this episode, Anthony Leal, a student-athlete at Indiana University, discusses the challenges and rewards of balancing his academic pursuits as a master's student with his commitments to the basketball team.  He shares insights into his daily routine, which includes early morning workouts, classes, and team meetings, and how he incorporates his passion for golf as a competitive outlet. Anthony...

In this heartfelt episode, Emma Kelly, wife of Colts player Ryan Kelly, shares the powerful story of their family's resilience through personal tragedy and triumph.  Emma opens up about the complexities of managing life as a mother to twins while expecting another, and supporting Ryan during football season. The episode delves into their profound grief after losing their daughter, Mary Kate, their...

Fall is upon us – and while football gets the early headlines this time of year…it will soon be time for tip off, buzzer beaters and brackets. Before they’re packing Hinkle Fieldhouse for a new season of Butler Basketball, seniors Pierre Brooks and Patrick McCaffery share how they’re building bonds with teammates, finding purpose with their platforms in college sports, and how connecting with kids...

I'm Larra Overton. And I'm Krissi Edgington, and this is Finding 44, the new podcast created by Project 44, spotlighting champions for change. In each episode, we'll talk to public figures, thought leaders, athletes, coaches, and more, who are doing great things in their communities, both in and outside of whatever arena they happen to play in. We'll explore successes on and off the court or field...