Intercollegiate Conversations

In Episode 30, we sit down with Paul Bubb, Director of Athletics at Western Illinois University, to talk about his journey through college athletics and the lessons learned along the way. From his early career steps to leading WIU Athletics today, Paul reflects on the evolving landscape of the industry including the impact of NIL, how hiring practices are changing, and why relationships and networ...

In this episode, we sit down with Jack Castleberry to talk about his path from playing at VMI to becoming the head coach at FDU—and all the steps, relationships, and lessons in between.💬 In this conversation, we cover:✔️ His journey from student-athlete to head coach✔️ Why networking is critical in college coaching✔️ How to evaluate if a school is the right fit for you✔️ The value of relationship...

In this week's edition of Intercollegiate Conversations, we revisit a former full conversation we had with Matt Larsen- Athletic Director at North Dakota State University. In our conversation, Matt gives us his journey from playing football at Stoney Brook to now being the athletic director at NDSU. We also get his thoughts on the importance of networking, communication, and having passion for...

In this episode of Intercollegiate Conversations, we sit down with Ryan Graham, Athletic Trainer for Men’s Basketball and Golf at Campbell University. Ryan shares his journey into athletic training and college athletics, offering a unique perspective on the evolution of athlete care over the years. We dive into: ✅ What sparked his interest in athletic training ✅ How college athletics has changed...

In this episode, we show the full past conversation we had with Ron Frost, Head Coach of Nicholls State University Softball, for an in-depth conversation about his coaching journey, leadership insights, and the power of relationships in college athletics. What we cover in this episode:✔️ How Coach Frost found his passion for coaching✔️ The driving force behind why he loves what he does✔️ The impor...

In this special episode of Intercollegiate Conversations, we highlight some of the best pieces of advice shared by our guests and wisdom they still apply every day in their roles across college athletics.📢 Featuring insights from:✔️ Eddie Galvan Associate AD-UTRGV✔️ Nolan Alexander Assistant AD of Communications-Kennesaw State✔️ Eric Crist Associate AD of Events-SIUE✔️ Chris Kreider Associate Hea...

In this episode of Intercollegiate Conversations, we sit down with Matt Howdeshell, Vice President of Intercollegiate Athletics at University of Central Missouri. From his background in positive coaching to leading a successful Division II program, Matt shares insights into his journey and the evolving landscape of college athletics. Topics covered in this episode:🏆 How positive coaching sparked...

In this episode, we sit down with Tanner Gardner, a former college wrestler turned Athletic Director at Pepperdine University. His journey is anything but typical, and he shares key insights on building a thriving career in college athletics. Topics Covered:✅ Finding the perfect fit in a college athletics work environment✅ Keys to success for long-term career growth✅ How to master networking in...

In this episode, we sit down with Cody Hendrickson, Assistant AD for Innovation & Strategy at Arizona, to dive into the evolving landscape of college athletics and the crucial role that innovation and strategic thinking play in its future. What we covered:✅ The unique role of Innovation & Strategy in college athletics✅ The impact of NIL & revenue sharing on programs and student-athle...

Welcome to Episode 21 of Intercollegiate Conversations! In this episode, we sit down with Casey Hunt, the Senior Associate Director of Athletics & Senior Woman Administrator (SWA) at Missouri State University. What You’ll Learn in This Episode:🔹 Casey’s career journey and how she built a successful career in college athletics🔹 The biggest changes she’s seen in the industry over the years🔹 H...

Welcome to Episode 20 of Intercollegiate Conversations! In this episode, we sit down with Joel Zimba, the Executive Deputy Athletics Director for External Relations at the University of Evansville to discuss his career journey, insights into college athletics, and the evolving landscape of the industry. What We Cover in This Episode:🏀 Joel’s Path in College Athletics – How he got started and the...

Welcome to another episode of Intercollegiate Conversations, where we dive into the stories and insights of college athletics professionals shaping the game. This week, we’re thrilled to sit down with Chris Kreider, Associate Head Coach of Men’s Basketball at Rice University! 🏀In this episode, Chris shares his journey through the world of coaching and offers a wealth of wisdom on topics like:✅ H...

In Episode 18 of Intercollegiate Conversations, we sit down with Eric Crist, Associate Athletic Director of Events and Facilities, to discuss his inspiring journey through the world of college athletics. From gaining hands-on experience at various levels of athletics to becoming a leader in his field, Eric shares invaluable insights and advice for aspiring and current professionals in the industry...

In this episode of Intercollegiate Conversations, we sit down with Nolan Alexander, Assistant Athletic Director of Communications and Broadcasting, affectionately known as the "Voice of the Owls."💡 What You’ll Learn from Nolan:His inspiring journey from an undergrad at Georgia Tech with dreams of becoming a broadcaster to his impactful role in college athletics today. Insights into the...

In this episode of Intercollegiate Conversations, we sit down with Eddie Galvan, Associate Athletic Director at University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV), to discuss his passionate journey into college sports and his insights into the evolving landscape of athletics administration.🌟 What You’ll Learn:Eddie’s inspiring path into college athletics and his passion for the fieldThe role of job bo...

In this special compilation episode, we bring together some of the most insightful moments from our conversations with top administrators in college athletics. These leaders share their unique journeys, leadership philosophies, and practical advice for succeeding in the fast-paced world of college sports.🌟 Featuring:Shawn Chin-Farrell - California State University NorthridgeAlex Kelly - Eastern W...

In this special compilation, we’ve gathered the best insights and advice from some of the top coaches featured on Intercollegiate Conversations. These leaders have shared their unique journeys, powerful lessons, and actionable tips for success in college athletics.🌟 Featuring:Jack Castleberry - Head Coach, Fairleigh Dickinson University Men’s BasketballRon Frost - Head Coach, Nicholls State Unive...

In Episode 13 of Intercollegiate Conversations, we are joined by Shawn Chin-Farrell, Athletic Director at California State University, Northridge (CSUN). Shawn shares his insights on leadership, the evolving landscape of college athletics, and the importance of finding your "why" in this rewarding field. Topics Discussed:Finding Your Why in College Athletics: Shawn emphasizes the importa...

In Episode 12 of Intercollegiate Conversations, we sit down with Alex Kelly, Chief Financial Officer at Eastern Washington University, to discuss his career journey, leadership insights, and the evolving landscape of college athletics. Alex brings a unique perspective on what it takes to thrive in athletic administration and shares his thoughts on finding the right opportunities in today’s challen...

In Episode 11 of Intercollegiate Conversations, we’re joined by Craig Doty, Head Coach of Men’s Basketball at Houston Christian University. Coach Doty shares his incredible journey from his early days in coaching to leading HCU’s basketball program, offering a wealth of life lessons and actionable insights for aspiring and experienced coaches alike. Topics Discussed:Craig Doty’s Journey: How his p...

In Episode 10 of Intercollegiate Conversations, we sit down with Andrew Kearney, Deputy Athletic Director for Senior Leadership at Nicholls State University, to discuss his career journey, the evolving landscape of college athletics, and the impact of innovative tools like Intercollegiate Recruiter on the hiring process. Topics Covered:Andrew’s Current Role & Impact at Nicholls State: Learn ho...

In Episode 9 of Intercollegiate Conversations, we sit down with Pat Egan, Head Baseball Coach at Sacred Heart University, to explore his journey from player to coach, the challenges of the profession, and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Pat provides a candid look at the world of college baseball coaching, from the vulnerability of chasing dreams in professional baseball to the importance o...

In Episode 8 of Intercollegiate Conversations, we sit down with Josiah Castro, Deputy Athletics Director for Revenue Generation at East Texas A&M University, to discuss his journey in college athletics, the evolution of the industry, and his insights on creating opportunities in the field. Josiah shares his experiences, including the unique path that led him into athletics, what he values in a...

In Episode 7 of Intercollegiate Conversations, we talk with Joey Cutting, Director of Development, Leadership Giving at the University of Texas at Austin, who shares his journey, insights, and expertise in the world of college athletics development. Joey provides an in-depth look at what "Development" means in today’s evolving college athletics landscape and the path he took from a gradu...

In Episode 6 of Intercollegiate Conversations, we sit down with Ryan Ridder, Head Coach of Mercer University Men's Basketball, to discuss his remarkable coaching journey and the lessons he’s learned along the way. From becoming a head coach at the age of 25 to leading at the Division I level by 32, Ryan shares his experiences and insights that shaped his career in college athletics. Ryan’s jou...