x

75% of people globally want unbiased news (Pew Research) but are concerned they're not getting that.

Get balanced coverage with Symby. See how stories are covered across diverse outlets and spot when one side covers a story the other skips.

PODCAST

Building a Champion

Jordan Kinderknecht

Insights from Top Coaches and Athletic Directors: Tune in weekly as we chat with top coaches and athletic directors to uncover the grit, determination, and heartache behind every championship season, revealing what it truly takes to reach the pinnacle of their sport.

sports

All Episodes

28:37

Jason Wilkins: Cherry Creek High School

Building a Champion ·

2025/10/20

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 community pride.From third- and fourth-generation Creekers to a new athletics-only facility breaking ground

en

32:30

Episode 20: Dr. Harvey Lamey

Building a Champion ·

2025/10/08

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). Dr. Lamey shares the mindset behind Hoover’s mantra—“Best is the standard”—and how the program develops

en

34:56

Episode 19: Anthony Azama

Building a Champion ·

2025/09/15

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-time national championships. Anthony shares how WashU sustains success through “competitive cooperation,” a

en

27:15

Episode 18: Matt Hill

Building a Champion ·

2025/09/12

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 runs — while staying true to their Christ-centered mission. We cover powerful stories of sportsmanship

en

27:05

Episode 17: Darin Keizer

Building a Champion ·

2025/06/24

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 while staying rooted in a Christ-centered mission. 🎓🏆You’ll hear how Dordt’s commitment to servant

en

36:14

Episode 16: Keri Becker

Building a Champion ·

2025/06/16

🎙 Building a Champion - Episode: Inside Grand Valley State’s Championship Culture with Carrie BeckerIn 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 down.Carrie shares behind-the-scenes stories from this year’s historic run, including national titles in

en

29:13

Episode 15: Greg Bodensteiner

Building a Champion ·

2025/04/30

Waverly-Shell Rock: Building a Culture of WinningThis 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 deep-rooted culture of winning for the GoHawks.

en

29:11

Episode 14: Kevin Buisman

Building a Champion ·

2025/04/28

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.

en

27:28

Episode 13: Kyle Rutledge

Building a Champion ·

2025/03/24

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.

en

35:15

Episode 12: Jarrod Schott

Building a Champion ·

2025/03/24

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 of coaches and athletes that have built this powerhouse program. Jared shares his insights on developing

en

27:11

Episode 11: Steve Brockelbank

Building a Champion ·

2025/02/10

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 building a winning program, fostering a positive student-athlete experience, and the importance of

en

35:28

Episode 10: Mike Snyder

Building a Champion ·

2025/01/21

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 sustained excellence.Listen now to learn from a seasoned leader in collegiate athletics.

en

36:30

Episode 9: Jerrett Mills

Building a Champion ·

2025/01/15

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 extends beyond the field.

en

19:55

Episode 8: Jayson Campbell

Building a Champion ·

2025/01/02

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 Southeast Polk fosters a winning culture that extends beyond the gridiron and prepares young men for success

en

23:56

Episode 7: Aleesha Rabedeaux

Building a Champion ·

2024/12/26

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 winning culture across all athletic programs, emphasizing the importance of student-athlete development,

en

27:00

Episode 6: Tony Hoops

Building a Champion ·

2024/12/05

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 the right student-athletes, retaining top talent, and instilling values that transcend the playing

en

17:21

Episode 5: Bill Magnuson

Building a Champion ·

2024/11/21

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, with multiple teams competing at the state level across various sports. Coach Magnuson provides

en

20:12

Episode 4: Dr. Paul Plinske

Building a Champion ·

2024/11/18

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 strategies, culture, and leadership driving this collegiate powerhouse.

en

30:07

Episode 3: Jeffrey Morgan

Building a Champion ·

2024/10/25

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 man orchestrating Harding's athletic successes. Tune in to discover the drive and dedication behind the

en

32:45

Episode 2: Bradley Sowder

Building a Champion ·

2024/10/18

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. Don't miss this behind-the-scenes look at athletic excellence—tune in now!

en

21 results

Similar Podcasts

Keeping Karlsson Fantasy Hockey Podcast

Elan Dubrofsky and Brian Kom

Daily Fantasy Sports by Ship It Nation

Ship It Nation

Fantasy Football Today

CBS Sports, Fantasy Football, FFT, NFL,...

Bring The Pain

Heat00veride

ESPN SportsCenter Update

ESPN