Building a Champion

What does it take to build one of the nation's most successful high school athletic departments? In this episode of Building a Champion , we sit down with Brett Phipps , Athletic Director at West Forsyth High School (GA) , to discuss the leadership principles behind sustained success. From the Wolverines' girls soccer team capturing its fourth state championship in six years to multiple state titl...

In this episode of Building a Champion , we head to Carmel, Indiana — home to one of the most dominant high school athletic programs in the country. With 31 state championships in six seasons , national rankings, and a reputation for excellence across 29 varsity sports , Carmel has built a true dynasty. Athletic Director Jim Inskeep joins the show to break down what really drives sustained success...

In this episode of Building a Champion , we head to Fayetteville, Texas (population 252) where Head Coach Jake Diggs and the Fayetteville Lions did something no team in high school basketball history has ever done — they hit 40 three-pointers in a single game , breaking the national record in a 120–25 win. But this story isn’t just about shooting. It’s about culture. Coach Diggs shares how his pro...

In this episode of Building a Champion , we head to Corvallis, Montana , home of one of the most consistent small-school track dynasties in the country. Longtime head coach Spencer Huls joins us to unpack how the Corvallis Blue Devils captured their third straight Class A boys state championship —this time by a single point—and how the program has now earned 18 combined boys and girls state titles...

In this episode of Building a Champion , we visit Cherry Creek High School , home of the 2024–25 MaxPreps Cup national champions — recognized as the top high school athletic program in America . Athletic Director Jason joins us to share how the Bruins captured nine state titles , achieved multiple national rankings, and built a model culture of excellence grounded in tradition, accountability, and...

Hoover doesn’t just talk about standards—they live them. In this episode of Building a Champion , Jordan and Brian sit down with Hoover High School Athletic Director Dr. Harley Lamey to unpack a historic year in Alabama high school basketball. The boys finished a perfect 35–0 to claim a third straight 7A state title , while the girls secured their fifth consecutive championship (11th since 2001)....

In this episode of Building a Champion , we sit down with Anthony Azama , Athletic Director at Washington University in St. Louis (WashU) , to reflect on one of the greatest years in Bears athletics history. From an undefeated NCAA Division III women’s soccer national championship to the first-ever women’s tennis national title , WashU added to its tradition of excellence with a total of 27 all-ti...

In this episode of Building a Champion , we sit down with Matt Hill , Athletic Director at the University of Northwestern–St. Paul , to explore how faith, integrity, and character are shaping one of NCAA Division III’s most respected athletic programs. Matt shares how Northwestern is excelling across multiple sports — from a national champion in women’s track & field to Final Four volleyball r...

On this episode of Building a Champion , we head to Northwest Iowa to talk with Darin Keizer , Athletic Director at Dordt University — one of the NAIA’s most mission-driven and dominant athletic programs. Darin shares how Dordt Athletics has delivered back-to-back NAIA national championships in women’s basketball, a top-5 football ranking, and standout performances in track and cross country — all...

🎙 Building a Champion - Episode: Inside Grand Valley State’s Championship Culture with Carrie Becker In this episode of Building a Champion , we sit down with Grand Valley State University Athletic Director Carrie Becker, the bold leader behind one of the most dominant programs in NCAA Division II. Since 2002, GVSU has captured over 30 national championships — and they show no signs of slowing dow...

Waverly-Shell Rock: Building a Culture of Winning This episode of Building a Champion explores the athletic powerhouse of Waverly-Shell Rock, Iowa. Athletic Director Greg Bodensteiner shares the secrets behind their consistent success across multiple sports, especially their dominant wrestling program. Discover the community support, coaching excellence, and innovative programs that cultivate a de...

Minnesota State Mankato made history, winning both men's & women's DII basketball national championships. Athletic Director Kevin Buisman discusses the dramatic wins, the "MavFam" culture, and recruiting strategies that led to their success. He highlights the importance of developing champions in sports, academics, and life.

Coach Kyle Rutledge joins Building a Champion to discuss Pittsburgh State's historic double victory at the NCAA DII outdoor track and field national championships. He dives into the winning culture, recruiting strategies, and mental preparation that fueled their remarkable success.

Join us as we journey to small-town Iowa to uncover the secrets behind the Remsen St. Mary's Hawks' incredible athletic success. Athletic Director Jared Schutt joins us to discuss their recent third state football championship in five years, and the sustained excellence across all their sports. We delve into the unique community culture, the importance of consistent messaging, and the dedication o...

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Brocklebank, Athletic Director at Ferris State University, to discuss their football team's recent NCAA Division II National Championship victory. We delve into the keys to their success, exploring the team's resilience, the importance of a strong team culture, and the role of community support in their continued dominance. Steve shares valuable insights on...

Join us for a conversation with Mike Snyder, Director of Athletics & Recreation at Pacific Lutheran University, a renowned institution with an impressive record of 286 conference championships and 11 national titles. Mike shares his insights on building a successful athletic program, fostering a positive student-athlete experience, and the importance of community engagement in achieving sustai...

Northeast Community College made history by capturing their first-ever NJCAA Division II men's soccer championship. In this episode of Building a Champion, we chat with Athletic Director Jerrett Mills about the team's incredible journey, including their resilience, strong team culture, and the crucial role of community support. We also explore how Northeast fosters a winning environment that exten...

Southeast Polk High School has achieved an unprecedented feat: four consecutive state football championships. In this episode of Building a Champion, we speak with Athletic Director Jason Campbell to uncover the secrets behind this remarkable dynasty. We delve into the team's resilience, the impact of exceptional coaching, and the importance of developing well-rounded athletes. Discover how Southe...

In this episode of Building a Champion, we sit down with Aleesha Rabedeaux, Director of Athletics at William Penn University. We delve into the inspiring journey of their men's soccer team, who reached the NAIA National Championship Final. We explore the team's strong leadership, resilience, and the crucial role of departmental support in their success. Alicia shares insights on cultivating a winn...

In this episode, Athletic Director Tony Hoops shares the secrets behind the incredible athletic success at Northwestern College. Discover how the school's volleyball, football, and other programs have sustained excellence, from coaching longevity to developing mental toughness and a culture of champions. Hoops provides a blueprint for building successful collegiate athletic programs by recruiting...

Join us for an inspiring episode of the "Building a Champion" podcast as we sit down with Bill Magnuson, the Activities Director and Head Football Coach from Pequot Lakes High School. Coach Magnuson shares the keys to his team's success, including the pivotal role of senior leadership, overcoming past challenges, and cultivating a winning culture. Discover how Pequot Lakes has become a powerhouse,...

In this episode of Building a Champion , we sit down with Dr. Paul Plinske, Athletic Director at CSU Pueblo, to explore the remarkable success of the ThunderWolves' men's soccer team. Dr. Plinske shares insights into the team's journey to the top and highlights the broader athletic excellence at CSU Pueblo, with several teams celebrating standout seasons. Tune in for an inspiring look at the strat...

In this inspiring episode of "Building a Champion," we sit down with Jeffrey Morgan, the dynamic Athletic Director of Harding University. Under his leadership, the Harding football team clinched their first-ever national championship in 2023, and now they're charging through another triumphant season. Join us as we delve into the strategies and team spirit that make a champion, straight from the m...

In this inspiring episode of "Building a Champion," we sit down with Bradley Sowder, the esteemed head coach of track and cross country at the University of the Cumberlands. Dive into the strategies and stories behind their phenomenal season, and discover what it takes to cultivate a team of champions. Join us as we explore the dedication, hard work, and spirit that propelled the team to victory....

Welcome to the inaugural episode of "Building a Champion," where we delve into the stories behind athletic excellence. In this episode, we sit down with Jacque Tevis-Butler, the esteemed head women's soccer coach at Millard West High School. With a legacy of triumph, Coach Tevis-Butler shares the journey to their first state championship and the subsequent victories that followed, culminating in a...