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  • College Recruiting Communication 101 (Email, Letters, Visits, Transfer Portal) | Dan Tudor – Tudor Collegiate Strategies

    College Recruiting Communication 101 (Email, Letters, Visits, Transfer Portal) | Dan Tudor – Tudor Collegiate Strategies
    Jan 23 2026
    Airey Bros Radio – Episode 431 is a deep-dive on the real mechanics of modern college recruiting — not highlight reels and slogans, but the communication systems that shape commitments, retention, transfers, and culture.We’re joined by Dan Tudor, founder of Tudor Collegiate Strategies and host of the College Recruiting Weekly Podcast, after a recommendation from Coach Steve Delgado (SWOCC Cross Country & Track). Dan has spent 20+ years helping college coaches and athletic departments build recruiting messaging that actually works — emails, letters, texts, phone calls, campus visits, and the “what happens next” process that recruits (and families) crave.In this episode, we break down:Why most coaches were never trained to recruit (and why recruiting is really sales + storytelling)The biggest recruiting mistake: coaches recruiting athletes the way they were recruitedWhy email is #1 for athletes (yes — in 2026)How to write a first message that feels real, personal, and response-worthyWhy letters are more powerful than ever (and how they influence families + decision-making)How to stay consistent without sounding like a used car salesmanWhy D3 can be a better financial deal than people think (academic aid, grants, packaging)Transfer portal recruiting: why it’s more business decision than emotional decisionHow better communication reduces transfers and increases buy-in🎙️ Perfect for: coaches, recruits, parents, ADs, recruiting coordinators, and anyone navigating NCAA / NAIA / JUCO recruiting in 2026.🔥 Fueled by Black Sheep Endurance Coaching☕ Value-for-Value: support the show → BuyMeACoffee.com/AireyBrosSearch tags / keywords: college recruiting, recruiting communication, recruiting email templates, recruiting letters, campus visit recruiting, transfer portal recruiting, NCAA recruiting, NAIA recruiting, JUCO recruiting, D3 scholarships, athletic recruiting strategy, coaching recruiting, recruiting sales, texting recruits, recruiting pipeline, roster building, retention, program culture.Podcast Timestamp Show Notes0:00 – The ABR mission + recruiting reality check Big world of opportunities beyond Division I; development paths; “not everyone is a D1 athlete.”1:45 – Show intro: “Recruiting systems, not highlight clips” Decision-making, communication structure, commitments, transfers.2:59 – Guest intro: Dan Tudor (Tudor Collegiate Strategies) - Sales, marketing, storytelling, recruiting messaging systems.4:11 – Where to find Dan + College Recruiting Weekly Podcast Website, podcast, training resources, recruiting communication education.5:27 – How Dan got on ABR (Coach Steve Delgado / SWOCC shoutout) NWAC context + why coaches recommend Dan’s content.7:15 – Dan’s origin story: TV sports broadcaster → recruiting services → coaching communicationEarly 90s broadcasting, recruiting services before the internet, the “confusing letter” problem.11:55 – The core problem: coaches were never trained to recruit - Why recruiting is communication + decision leadership; “what happens next” clarity.14:26 – Small world moment: Cal State Bakersfield + Paul Keysaw connection ABR continuity + shared circles across sports.15:14 – Biggest mistake coaches make: recruiting how they were recruited “Tree rings” analogy; college athletics culture resists change.17:43 – Social media trap: why highlights aren’t enough Scroll culture, attention scarcity, brand problems for D2/D3/JUCO “non-famous” programs.19:33 – Surprise #1: Athletes say EMAIL is the best recruiting medium Why they reread emails 7–15 times; email as their “commercial” / brand builder.21:58 – What the first message should look like (personal + specific) Mention what you saw, what stood out, invite conversation, make it easy to respond.23:01 – Why personalization matters (this generation can sniff out fake) Conversational tone > stiff/formal; “prove you know who I am.”27:28 – Letters are back: why physical mail stands out in 2026 “Mysterious” + special; family sees it; fridge/counter effect; long-tail influence.31:15 – Advice to recruits/parents: be proactive (email/text/call first) Why coaches respond when an athlete reaches out; “low-hanging fruit” effect.35:05 – Optics matter: signing ceremony + micro-scholarships Even small scholarship packaging can influence decisions and pride/social proof.38:47 – Consistency vs. salesy: how coaches avoid the ‘used car salesman’ vibe - Lead from A→B; ask for the commitment; don’t stall in endless “checking in.”43:41 – D3 money reality: why D3 can still be affordable Aid, grants, packaging; D3 recruiting skill as a career accelerator for coaches.47:39 – Transfer portal: recruiting never ends High school recruiting is emotional; portal recruiting is problem-solving + business logic.50:40 – Old-school coaches adapting: the “7 commitments in one night” story When coaches actually ask correctly, classes ...
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    1 Std. und 12 Min.
  • JUCO Wrestling Built Different: Fresno City’s Dynasty, Development Path & California’s Stigma Problem | Coach Paul Keysaw (ABR 430)

    JUCO Wrestling Built Different: Fresno City’s Dynasty, Development Path & California’s Stigma Problem | Coach Paul Keysaw (ABR 430)
    Jan 20 2026
    Fresno City College Wrestling is one of the most dominant programs in California community college athletics — and Head Coach Paul Keysaw has built a championship standard that lasts decades, not seasons.In Airey Bros Radio Episode 430, we go belly to belly with the Cal State Bakersfield 1991 NCAA Division I National Champion and multi-time CCCAA State Champion coach to break down Fresno City’s recent run, why JUCO wrestling is one of the best development paths in the country, and what recruits and parents need to understand about the real college wrestling process.Coach Keysaw dives into:Fresno City’s 2025 season recap + competing with Mt. San Antonio and CerritosWhy the community college stigma is hurting athletes (and how to flip it)The cost/value advantage of California Community Colleges (and why it’s a “hidden gem”)Building culture with process, fundamentals, and accountabilityWrestling season in the fall (and why he thinks the NCAA should seriously consider it)The state of wrestling in California: program cuts, admin support, and the future of growthA wild story: Coach Keysaw went 3–0 as an interim basketball coach 😂Bonus: the Randy Couture connection — “Yeah… I beat that guy.”🎓 Recruits/Parents: Fresno City is a launching pad. “It doesn’t matter where you start the journey — it matters where you finish.”📲 Follow Fresno City Wrestling: @fccramwrestling📝 Recruiting Form + program links:https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSclo_LNH6rI99qwlaxfwW-mHtKajfM3KXRamqfBu_aknwSf9g/viewformhttps://fccrams.com/sports/wrest/index🌺 Fuel: Black Sheep Endurance Coaching☕ Value for Value: Buy Me a Coffee — https://buymeacoffee.com/aireybrosSHOW NOTES + TIMESTAMPS (ABR 430)0:00 Why ABR shines a light on JUCO/D2/D3/NAIA programs (not just “power school” coverage)0:49 Show open + 2026 kickoff + “belly to belly” with Coach Paul Keysaw2:03 Coach bio: titles, honors, Fresno City season recap, and program résumé3:39 Where recruits can find Fresno City Wrestling (IG + pages)4:25 The “throughline” moment: VHS tapes, old-school wrestling fandom, and the Randy Couture match6:05 Origin story: how Coach Keysaw started wrestling (and the no-quitting rule)7:16 What makes a great youth coach: fundamentals, purpose, and building the base8:43 Pennsylvania → Cal State Bakersfield: the transfer story + “Lou was my Clarence”10:13 Headgear wrestling from day one (no WWE angle) + Athens, PA geography12:24 When he first thought coaching was “the coolest job”13:28 Post-title reality check: “Now I had to get a job”14:04 The accidental coaching start: cemetery sales → “How much would you pay me?”15:38 “Welcome to the staff” (and instant panic)16:09 Why he stayed: coaching should be fun — and JUCO is still his favorite space16:47 Helping athletes who don’t know what they want to do (major/life direction)18:31 Fear of failure + why wrestlers “turn on” to education over time20:51 Watching the “light come on” + his “weeds” analogy for wrestlers22:09 JUCO stigma in California: is it getting worse?23:53 Social media + the “not into the process” problem24:30 Transfer portal era: “D3 kid to Iowa” and why development pathways matter26:17 Fresno City campus life: commuter school + the dorms arms race in California JC sports27:13 Recruiting rules: open-state recruiting, out-of-state restrictions, and first contact28:16 Debt + affordability: why JUCO helps families win long-term28:46 Cost breakdown: California Community College affordability + residency angle30:00 Honors program + transfer leverage: “guaranteed UC admission” pathway talk31:25 Parents and recruiting: most families don’t understand the process32:21 Fresno City programs: fire academy, police academy, welding, nursing, rad tech, dental hygiene33:48 How big is Fresno City? student population + athlete count34:41 Why California wrestling is in the fall (and why Coach loves it now)35:27 “Wrestling season is too long” — why a fall NCAA season could save the sport37:10 Work-life balance + why the fall model gives coaches/families a real life38:20 Offseason structure: conditioning, strength, wrestling class38:45 Recruiting challenges vs. results: “We didn’t have enough horses” (2025 season lens)40:03 California’s single state champ issue + kids jumping levels too early41:14 Correction + clarity: Fresno City’s recent title run + dynasty context42:21 2025 season review: young lineup, state duals, and outlook for next year43:16 Recruiting year-round: transfers, bounce-backs, and timing44:05 Real talk: if you’re recruited early, you’re probably that level — if not, trust development45:25 What Coach Keysaw looks for: motivated kids who love the process + want to keep climbing46:08 “Rooting for them is inherent” — success beyond the mat47:48 Life wins: careers, families, becoming a cop — Fresno City pride stories48:57 Why he stayed in the CCCAA: doors,...
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    1 Std. und 17 Min.
  • Spokane Colleges XC Dynasty w/ Coach Sean McLachlan (NWAC Champs, JUCO Recruiting, Podium Indoor Track, New XC Course) | ABR 429

    Spokane Colleges XC Dynasty w/ Coach Sean McLachlan (NWAC Champs, JUCO Recruiting, Podium Indoor Track, New XC Course) | ABR 429
    Jan 16 2026
    Howdy & Aloha! 🌺 Airey Bros Radio Episode 429 is now LIVE on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all major platforms — featuring Coach Sean McLachlan, Head Men’s & Women’s Cross Country Coach and Assistant Track & Field Coach at Spokane Colleges, one of the most dominant JUCO / NWAC distance programs in the country.Coach McLachlan breaks down what it takes to sustain a championship culture year after year — from developing depth (not just stars), to recruiting the right fit, to maximizing elite training environments in the Pacific Northwest.In this episode we cover:Spokane’s NWAC dynasty history and how the tradition startedWhy JUCO can be the BEST path for distance runners (development + opportunity + fit)The brand-new Spokane XC course and the vision to host major events (college + national level)The Podium indoor track facility (banked 200m track) and why it’s a game-changer for recruitingHow Spokane competes against (and beats) NCAA D1, D2, D3, and NAIA programs at meets2025 season recap: Spokane men win the NWAC title led by Alex Wright (NWAC Athlete of the Year)Training talk: mileage management, freshman development, and double threshold “dabbling”Team culture, assistant coaches, and why athletes say they “wish Spokane was a 4-year school”Plus: Vision Quest Spokane stories, coffee talk, podcasts/books, and holiday vibes 🎄☕📍 Guest: Coach Sean McLachlan — Spokane Colleges XC/Track🏃 Conference: NWAC (Northwest Athletic Conference)🔥 Fueled by Black Sheep Endurance Coaching☕ Support the show: BuyMeACoffee.com/AireyBrosPodcast Show Notes + Timestamps 0:00 Why ABR is covering NWAC + JUCO XC (shining light on overlooked programs)0:59 Sasquatch mascot love + Spokane identity1:22 ABR intro + episode mission (value-for-value, recruiting, development)3:34 Where recruits can find Spokane XC (Instagram + athletics site)4:33 Throughlines: JUCO roots, NWAC spotlight, Vision Quest Spokane connection6:14 Vision Quest filming at Spokane + classic running scenes downtown7:06 Coach origin story: raised at the track, family coaching lineage8:13 Multi-sport background (soccer/basketball/wrestling) + how it builds the “motor”9:03 HS success (800/3200/XC), choosing Spokane, transfer to Southern Utah10:09 Returning to Spokane to coach — mentors, roots, and long-term vision10:34 Coaching the program you ran for + what Spokane means to him11:18 Spokane “chip on the shoulder” + building with mostly local 509 talent12:19 When the dynasty started: two campuses, two programs, then joined forces13:43 Title streaks + “dark ages” + track dominance (men’s + women’s titles)14:52 Spokane running history: Jerry Lindgren, Prefontaine clashes, Pat Tyson legacy18:15 “What’s the secret?” Resources + leadership + recruiting grind in JUCO20:45 Family atmosphere: staff continuity, 13 track coaches, assistants’ impact23:12 JUCO stigma vs value: how Spokane wins recruits with proof + performance25:04 Competing vs 4-year schools + being seen in mixed-division meets26:05 Podium facility advantage + recruiting through performance (wins vs D1/D2/NAIA/D3)27:49 Facilities deep dive: new XC course + Podium banked indoor track28:17 New XC course vision: WCC meet hosted, future NXR, NCAA-level goals29:08 Spokane Sports Commission shoutout + sports tourism strategy29:40 The Podium: why it paid for itself fast + year-round multi-sport venue31:03 Downtown Spokane training ecosystem (Riverfront Park, trails, warmups)32:10 Trails, Rimrock dirt road workouts, hills, and why the training is tough-but-great34:20 No HS indoor track in WA (West Coast facility scarcity)35:50 No official NWAC indoor season — why that can be a blessing36:42 Two campuses explained: Spokane Falls vs Spokane Community (transfer vs technical)38:34 No dorms — Spokane housing solution + why apartments can be better39:56 2025 season recap begins: men’s title expectations + championship execution41:42 Alex Wright story (Purdue grad, aerospace engineer, came back to run w/ brother)42:57 Holland Herd “gamer” championship performance + step-ups43:45 Isaac Riggsby comeback story (missed senior year, stress fracture, 4.0 student)44:42 Winning but not satisfied: holding standards while still celebrating46:21 Culture fit: giving everyone a shot + JUCO as fresh start and development47:21 Freshman transition to 8K: mileage range management + avoiding overloading49:23 Early-season racing vs older collegiate runners + confidence + patience50:14 Training hot topic: double threshold — “dabbling,” not chasing trends52:44 Women’s season reflection: lessons, injuries, refocus, building back stronger54:04 Balancing men & women at championships + pre-race prep systems56:13 Family shoutout: spouse support, kids, Eugene trips, being “track nuts”57:13 Coffee talk: pour-over setup, local spots, lighter roasts, Spokane coffee culture59:24 Daily routines + learning inputs (running vids/podcasts, ski vids, books)1:00:49 What he’s ...
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    1 Std. und 9 Min.
  • From Startup to #1: Roanoke Wrestling’s Rise + Recruiting Blueprint w/ Coach Nate Yetzer | ABR 428

    From Startup to #1: Roanoke Wrestling’s Rise + Recruiting Blueprint w/ Coach Nate Yetzer | ABR 428
    Jan 13 2026
    ABR 428 is OUT NOW on Spotify + Apple Podcasts — and the timing couldn’t be crazier.We went live on 12/22 with Coach Nate Yetzer, the head man who built Roanoke College Wrestling from the ground up… and THIS WEEKEND the Maroons won the NWCA/USMC Multi-Division National Dual Meet Championships — taking down the giants and changing Division III history.In this episode, Coach Yetzer breaks down the blueprint behind Roanoke’s rapid rise:✅ How to build a program from scratch (and why he actually prefers it)✅ Culture as the real “competitive advantage”✅ Recruiting philosophy + what a “Roanoke Kid” really is✅ Why D3 can be the best fit for development + career outcomes✅ Scholarships, academic/need-based aid, and how families should approach the money side✅ Fan experience + building a brand people want to watch✅ Areas Roanoke recruits (VA/NC/Atlanta, New England… and why Denver is next)✅ Advice for athletes: how to email coaches, sell yourself, and find the right fitABOUT THE TITLE RUN: Roanoke went to Iowa and shook the sport — beating Augsburg and Wartburg to bring home the national duals crown. The “Augsburg/Wartburg era” isn’t automatic anymore.🎧 Search “Airey Bros Radio” on Spotify/Apple Podcasts and find ABR 428.📺 Full livestream archive is on YouTube.Fueled by Black Sheep Endurance ☕️Value-for-Value: Buy Me a Coffee (link in bio / show notes)Show notes + timestamps (ABR 428)Guest: Coach Nate Yetzer — Head Wrestling Coach, Roanoke College (DIII)Topic: Building Roanoke Wrestling + recruiting philosophy + culture + DIII opportunity + (now) NWCA National Duals champions0:00 – 0:50 ABR mission: spotlight programs + real recruiting conversations0:51 – 2:55 Full intro + resume: building Roanoke from scratch, ODAC success, rankings, fast start2:56 – 4:00 Where recruits can find Roanoke Wrestling + social media + club (70+ members)4:01 – 5:10 Wrestling world is small: connection to Coach Matt Hill (Edinboro)5:11 – 8:30 Origin story: dad’s influence, falling in love with wrestling, multi-sport upbringing8:31 – 9:55 Brother battles + “they’ll stop when they’re tired” parenting moment 😅9:56 – 11:20 Coach as a dad: his 4 boys + when kids start specializing11:21 – 12:45 Recruiting athleticism + multi-sport traits that translate12:46 – 16:10 “Why coaching?” Leaving a chip-company job, getting into the profession, impact on lives16:11 – 16:50 Troyer Farms chips story 🍟16:51 – 19:10 Taking the Roanoke job in 2020: expectations vs reality (ahead of schedule)19:11 – 21:10 Advice for startup coaches: you MUST be all-in (and the family piece)21:11 – 23:10 Startup vs takeover: why starting from scratch can be “easier” philosophically23:11 – 24:30 2025–26 start + culture: “30 guys where it’s a priority”24:31 – 26:25 Recruiting footprint: VA/NC/Atlanta + defining the “Roanoke Kid”26:26 – 28:35 Why Denver/Colorado fits + camp strategy + Adidas camps + local Denver wrestling talk28:36 – 31:05 D1-or-bust mentality: “If you love wrestling, there’s a place for you”31:06 – 32:55 Financial reality of D3: academic + need-based aid, comparing packages, NIL trickle-down32:56 – 34:12 Roanoke academics: business, health fields, computer science + campus growth34:13 – 37:12 Defining a “Roanoke Kid”: academics, values, fit, style of wrestling, upward trajectory37:13 – 38:20 Core values with recruits: kids have them, but can’t always vocalize them38:21 – 41:20 Building a fan base + creating an event (walkout songs, production, club connection)41:21 – 42:35 Big home dates: Jan 4 vs UW–Eau Claire + Feb 6 vs Lee (ODAC title collision course)42:36 – 44:05 Rankings mindset + how Coach uses rankings for recruiting (but not ego)44:06 – 46:35 National tournament mindset: pressure, perspective, and the “doing dishes” story 😂46:36 – 48:45 Breaking the Augsburg/Wartburg standard + respect for the blueprint48:46 – 50:25 Key athletes to watch (Jude Robson, Mark Samuel, Smith brothers, Xavier Preston, Hunter Moore, more)50:26 – 51:45 National Duals plans (at the time): why Roanoke committed to go51:46 – 53:10 CEO of the program: culture, academics, fundraising, donors53:11 – 54:40 Golf outing + the “wrestler obsession” problem54:41 – 57:20 Recruiting advice for athletes: email coaches, self-awareness, “sell yourself”57:21 – 58:55 Christmas talk: movies + food + Moscow mule holiday recipe 🎄58:56 – 1:01:20 Coffee corner: Aeropress, roasters, Third Wave Water tip1:01:21 – 1:03:40 Daily ritual: recommitment, prayer, self-talk + belief1:03:41 – 1:05:20 What coach listens to: Rogan, AI episodes, classic Christmas music1:05:21 – 1:07:30 Guilty pleasures: Moon Pies, BBQ, and the donut-burger madness 🍩🍔1:07:31 – 1:08:29 Wrap-up + where to follow Roanoke Wrestling
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    1 Std. und 8 Min.
  • Belly to Belly w/ Tom Boyd (Gannon Wrestling) — Building a Top-5 NCAA D2 Program, Portal + NIL, and Real Development

    Belly to Belly w/ Tom Boyd (Gannon Wrestling) — Building a Top-5 NCAA D2 Program, Portal + NIL, and Real Development
    Jan 9 2026
    Gannon University Wrestling is rolling — and the head man behind it is as real as it gets.On Airey Bros Radio Ep. 427, we go Belly to Belly with Tom Boyd, Head Wrestling Coach at Gannon University, to break down what true NCAA Division II development looks like year-to-year — and why the Golden Knights have become one of the most consistent programs in the country.Coach Boyd talks Gannon’s fast start (3–0 in duals), team titles at the Mount Union Invitational & Ohio Intercollegiate Open, a 4th-place finish at the Midwest Classic, and the program’s No. 5 ranking in the NWCA Coaches Poll (Nov. 20) — while keeping the main thing the main thing: peaking in March.We also dig into:The seamless transition from legendary coach Don Henry to BoydHow Gannon builds culture, accountability, and “no-hide” competitorsPortal recruiting done the right way (finding guys with gas left in the tank)NIL at the D2 level — housing, health insurance, and community give-backRecruiting Erie, PA: lake-effect winters, hunting/fishing, and big-time academicsWhy engineering + D2 wrestling is a rare, powerful combo for recruitsIf you’re a recruit, parent, coach, or fan who cares about culture + development + opportunity, this episode is a blueprint.SUPPORT (Value-for-Value): Buy us a coffee ☕Follow / Subscribe: YouTube, Spotify, Apple Podcasts + IG @aireybrosradioFueled by: Black Sheep EnduranceTime Stamps / Show Notes0:00 ABR mission: spotlighting programs athletes “should’ve known” in recruiting0:30 Howdy & Aloha intro + Value-for-Value + Black Sheep Endurance1:29 Who is Coach Tom Boyd: Gannon lifer, All-American, staff since 19952:12 2025 season snapshot: 3–0 duals, titles, Midwest Classic, No. 5 NWCA (Nov. 20)3:01 Where recruits/parents can find Gannon Wrestling + socials3:48 Connection to Ryan LeBlanc + coaching Boyd’s son (and now coaching together)6:33 Coaching your own kid: balancing “dad vs coach” + letting the athlete own it8:23 Parents & pressure: protecting wrestlers, transparency, and peaking in March9:31 Midwest Classic breakdown: “midterm exam,” brutal match load, lessons learned10:36 Boyd’s roots at Gannon: from forfeits/vans → top-5 national program12:52 “Slow and steady” building: alumni, booster support, resources, closing the gap14:02 Key Midwest performances: Jerry Echavarria wins 133 + 6 placers15:14 Lineup upgrades coming: Dorian Crosby, Danny Kaiser, Holden Hoon + more depth16:14 Erie location advantage: 2 hrs to Cleveland/Buffalo/Pittsburgh, endless competition17:24 Key matchups + mindset: not satisfied with regional goals — chasing top 3 consistently18:16 Ranked #5: embracing the target and competing “no hiding”19:01 Injury defaults / pulling guys: character, expectations, and wrestling back20:12 Coaching losses: process > outcome, individual approaches, confidence building22:17 Social media era: adapt, don’t be a victim, teach kids to be good men24:10 Leaving the sport with “a good taste”: doing everything you can, no regrets25:40 Chiropractor + head coach: two callings, balancing time, being “wired”29:00 Recruiting pitch: campus + student life + engineering, cybersecurity, aviation30:48 Erie, PA vibe: walkable downtown, winter “Hallmark,” lake effect life32:47 Outdoors recruiting: fishing, hunting, lake + steelhead/trout33:35 Recruiting footprint: PA/OH/NY + nationwide (TX/FL/WA/Germany)37:02 What Boyd wants in a recruit: Energy Bus, culture fit, character, commitment38:19 Wrestling room = sanctuary: leadership, energy, showing up for athletes41:01 Freshmen vs portal: developing 20 freshmen while using portal strategically42:31 NIL at Gannon: real-life support + giving back through PAL/youth wrestling45:04 Old school mindset, modern reality: adapt or get left behind46:22 Finding portal guys with “gas”: opportunity + academics + hunger48:32 Portal exits done right: honest conversations, good terms, opportunity matters50:03 Internships + career prep: Erie Insurance, business pipelines, grad support51:18 Coaching tree + alumni impact (high school coaches + program branches)52:23 Pre-chiro pipeline + why it fits wrestling culture55:42 Midwest Classic grind + doing adjustments at tournaments56:35 Final recruiting message: find your home, fit matters more than the “sell”58:02 Fun closer: 814 meaning + facilities pride + coffee habits1:00:17 Daily rhythm: consistency, bath ritual, elliptical, being “go go go”1:01:35 Vision Quest + 80s alternative + “What can I do better today?”1:04:46 Guilty pleasure: candy/sweet tooth (Milky Ways, peanut M&M’s)1:06:00 Wrap: shoutout Coach LeBlanc + best of luck vs Edinburgh + Value-for-Value outro
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    1 Std. und 7 Min.
  • ABR 426 Coach Steve Delgado | From Non-Scoring to NWAC Champs: Southwestern Oregon XC’s Breakthrough Season

    ABR 426 Coach Steve Delgado | From Non-Scoring to NWAC Champs: Southwestern Oregon XC’s Breakthrough Season
    Jan 6 2026
    Southwestern Oregon just made HISTORY — winning the first NWAC Women’s Cross Country Championship in school history… and they did it with five freshmen scorers. In Airey Bros Radio Ep. 426, we go live with the architect behind the Lakers’ rise: Coach Steve Delgado (SWOCC). We talk NWAC vs NJCAA, why JUCO is one of the best pathways in college running right now, and how a program goes from non-scoring to championship culture in a hurry. We also dive into the legend and lore of Coos Bay, Oregon — home of Steve Prefontaine — plus the behind-the-scenes coaching habits that actually build alignment: recruiting truth, standards, team connection, and Coach Delgado’s best advice of the night: “Lean into conflict.” (Culture doesn’t happen by accident.) ✅ Topics Covered:
    • SWOCC’s jump from last place energy to NWAC Champions
    • What a true “champion experience” means at the JUCO level
    • Taylor Dickey & Lydia Montes De Oca going 1–2 and gapping the field
    • Men’s program podium finish — best since 1970
    • Recruiting, affordability, housing, and why the JUCO path is booming
    • Training philosophy, thresholds, and building the “better humans” mentality
    ☕ Fueled by Black Sheep Endurance Coaching
    blacksheependurance.com/

    📺 Originally streamed live on YouTube (Dec 10, 2025) — now available everywhere you get podcasts.

    SHOW NOTES (With Time Stamps) 0:00 ABR intro + why we’re spotlighting NWAC (new region for ABR)
    1:04 What is the NWAC? Why schools formed their own JUCO conference
    1:46 Coos Bay + Oregon running culture + “nickel tour” at Prefontaine Track
    2:28 Full show intro: SWOCC’s historic season + episode mission
    5:30 Where recruits should reach Coach Delgado (athletic.net + questionnaire)
    6:17 Coach Delgado’s origin story: runner → cyclist → coaching through kids
    9:19 Marshfield HS legacy + deep roots in Oregon track culture
    10:34 Prefontaine impact today + famous names visiting Coos Bay
    12:54 Without Limits vs Prefontaine (hot topic!) + Frank Shorter stories
    14:58 Taking over SWOCC: Year 3 “the year I own”
    15:05 Women’s program growth: from non-scoring to champs
    16:02 Recruiting + relationships + growth as runners AND humans
    18:14 Freshmen-heavy roster + wrestler/runner crossover story
    19:38 Did he expect to win? (podium yes… championship no)
    21:22 Season design: avoiding early PR pressure + peaking at the right time
    22:49 The “we’re pretty good” moment: beating D2/D3/NAIA programs
    24:11 Going 1–2: how Taylor & Lydia separated + race day decision-making
    26:12 Top five spread + Spokane’s insane 11-second pack strength
    27:20 Men take 3rd (best since 1970) + what’s next
    28:02 Housing + student life: why SWOCC feels like a small 4-year experience
    30:32 Sustaining success: process over results, building environment & character
    32:20 NWAC breakdown: sports split (some SWOCC programs are NJCAA)
    33:54 Recruiting barrier: “nationals” conversation + why proof is performance
    35:21 NJ stigma vs West Coast mindset: cost, value, and transfer pathways
    39:01 Oregon tuition waiver: 3.75 GPA = major affordability boost
    40:14 Unique programs: nursing, paramedicine, fire science, welding, forestry
    44:36 Coaching evolution: “board of directors” + learning from mentors
    46:09 Character-first approach + Brett Ledbetter “What Drives Winning”
    47:16 Double thresholds (when and for who)
    48:13 Training grounds in Coos Bay: packed sand, beach, trails, ocean views
    51:14 Indoor meets + travel plans (Spokane / UNR / Portland)
    54:36 Balancing coaching with a full-time student-life role
    56:50 CLIP MOMENT: “Lean into conflict” — standards, connection, culture
    58:19 Harder job: recruiting new athletes vs recruiting experienced athletes
    1:01:29 Final Four: coffee, rituals, what he’s consuming (FTC / Magnus / Sinek)
    1:08:49 Guilty pleasure: Coach is a Swiftie + birthday shoutout
    1:09:36 Wrap-up + recruit info + ABR close
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    1 Std. und 10 Min.
  • Inside UNC’s Distance Powerhouse w/ Associate Head Coach Ian Moini | ABR EP 425

    Inside UNC’s Distance Powerhouse w/ Associate Head Coach Ian Moini | ABR EP 425
    Jan 1 2026
    In this episode, we head to Chapel Hill to chop it up with Coach Ian Moini, Associate Head Coach for UNC Cross Country & Track — and one of the key architects behind the Tar Heels’ national distance surge. Coach Moini breaks down what it really looks like building (and sustain) a top-10 NCAA distance culture — from recruiting and development, to training philosophy, to balancing elite performance with world-class academics. We cover:
    • UNC’s rise into a national XC powerhouse + what “program standards” actually mean
    • Developing NCAA champs and elite competitors (and what separates the great ones)
    • Recruiting at UNC: high school, transfers, internationals — and the “fit” factor
    • The “intention gap” in modern NCAA distance running
    • How UNC athletes manage academics + high-performance training without burning out
    • Training talk: double threshold (in moderation), strength combos, speed touch work
    • 2025 XC recap + indoor season outlook + meets to watch
    If you’re a recruit, parent, coach, or distance nerd who loves hearing how great programs are built the right way — this one’s for you.
    Follow Coach Moini: IG: @coachianmoini | Team: @unctrack_field
    Support the show: BuyMeACoffee.com/AireyBros
    Powered by: Black Sheep Endurance Coaching: blacksheependurance.com


    Show Notes
    Ep. 425 — Coach Ian Moini (UNC) | Tar Heels XC/Track Culture + Recruiting + Training 00:00 – Why ABR exists: conversations we wish we had during recruiting
    00:51 – ABR intro + value-for-value + Black Sheep Endurance shoutout
    02:06 – Guest intro: Coach Ian Moini + UNC program accolades
    04:01 – Where to find Coach Moini (IG + email)
    04:35 – Pork roll or Taylor ham? + Is Central Jersey real?
    05:40 – Origin story: hockey → running → coaching
    06:45 – Three different college coaches in three years: impact on an athlete
    09:08 – Stability vs. culture: how the team kept momentum
    10:39 – Why UNC: education + athletic department investment
    11:54 – Princeton Day School → Pennington School shift + Coach Ritter influence
    13:02 – Hockey fandom + Carolina hockey culture
    14:09 – When Coach Chris Miltenberg arrived: new standards + expectations
    15:37 – Major at UNC + coaching education minor (and what was most valuable)
    16:32 – Early coaching pathway: volunteering/EMU internship → back to UNC staff
    17:22 – “Pinch me” moments: recruiting athletes + watching them grow
    18:24 – Parker Wolf & Ethan Strand arriving: what separated them early
    20:36 – Reverse engineering greatness: elite lifestyle vs. elite desire to win
    21:20 – The “intention gap” in NCAA distance (US kids vs. pro mindset)
    22:52 – Balancing pro-level running with UNC academics
    25:05 – Support systems: academic advising + sustainable success at UNC
    26:42 – Recruiting process: runway, relationships, and fit
    28:08 – How UNC differentiates when everyone wants the same recruits
    28:57 – Handling slumps: high support + high standards (no self-deception)
    30:44 – Day-to-day role: recruiting QB + increasing coaching responsibilities
    32:07 – Ops reality: yes, the Concur expense reports 😂
    33:27 – Training philosophy: double threshold (as one tool, not the whole toolbox)
    35:12 – 2025 XC season recap: men’s transition year + women’s 11th again
    37:20 – BU opener mindset: marks, sharpening, and schedule flexibility
    39:07 – Why Boston feels so fast (and how the meet energy matters)
    41:25 – Recruiting mix: US HS priority + transfers + internationals
    42:48 – New Jersey pipeline at UNC (CBA + more NJ talent)
    43:26 – Indoor meets to watch + ACC meet in Boston (New Balance Track)
    44:40 – Majors at UNC: business, bio/chem, ex sci, education + unique programs
    47:16 – What a “Tar Heel” means (history + pride)
    48:19 – Carolina vs. Chapel Hill vs. “UNC” — what people actually say
    50:24 – Rapid-fire fun: coffee, routines, podcasts/music, guilty pleasures
    56:14 – Jersey Shore reset + ice cream pick
    57:16 – Closing thoughts + thanks + follow UNC + what’s next on ABR Watch the full episode on YouTube and listen everywhere podcasts are found.
    ☕ Support: BuyMeACoffee.com/AireyBros
    📲 IG: @aireybrosradio
    🔥 Powered by Black Sheep Endurance Coaching
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    59 Min.
  • Lansing CC’s Snow Dynasty: Coach Jim Robinson on the NJCAA D2 XC Three-Peat / ABR Episode 424

    Lansing CC’s Snow Dynasty: Coach Jim Robinson on the NJCAA D2 XC Three-Peat / ABR Episode 424
    Dec 30 2025
    Ladies & gentlemen — Howdy & Aloha! We are HERE, you are THERE, and you’re now rockin’ with the best! 🌨️🏃‍♂️

    On Episode 424 of Airey Bros Radio, we’re heading back to Fort Dodge, Iowa to recap one of the grittiest national meets you’ll ever see — the NJCAA Division II Cross Country National Championship in 30° temps, snow, mud, and chaos.We’re joined by Lansing Community College Head Coach Jim Robinson as the Stars complete the three-peat, winning their 3rd straight NJCAA D2 Men’s National Title (and the 9th men’s national championship in program history) with a dominant 32-point performance — the only team under 100.

    We talk:
    • Race strategy in brutal conditions (get out front, control footing, secure the team win)

    • The “Michigan tough” identity + why LCC’s culture is built on trust, hard work, and fun

    • The Stars’ depth (interchangeable 1–7), mid-race adjustments, and championship composure

    • A wild Fort Dodge moment: a slip… and even a golf cart incident

    • What recruits/parents should know about the NJCAA route, development, and “fit over logo”

    • What’s next as LCC turns the page into track season (and how they “reload”)

    🎯 If you’re a high school runner, parent, or coach trying to find the right next-level fit — this one’s for you.

    ✅ LIKE, SUBSCRIBE & COMMENT
    ☕ Support the show
    📱 IG: @AireyBrosRadio
    🎧 Listen: Spotify / Apple Podcasts — Airey Bros Radio
    💪 Fueled by Black Sheep Endurance Coaching

    Episode 424 — Timestamped Show Notes
    0:01 — ABR open + “Taking off the spikes” + Fort Dodge blizzard recap
    0:17 — Value-for-value: like/subscribe/comment + Buy Me a Coffee
    0:46 — Fueled by Black Sheep Endurance + ABR mission (shine light beyond Power 5)
    1:12 — Coach intro: Jim Robinson + LCC’s three-peat + 32 points, three in top five
    2:16 — Where recruits should go: lcc.edu → Campus Life → Athletics → recruiting form
    3:01 — “It’s snowing in Fort Dodge…” setting the scene + course conditions through the day
    4:45 — Spikes talk: last-minute change + what works (and doesn’t) in snow/mud
    6:09 — Did the game plan change? Why LCC wanted to be up front early
    8:37 — “Everything went to plan?” hiccups + how LCC’s depth covers off-days
    11:09 — What this title meant: why this group felt especially strong (but didn’t assume)
    14:11 — Old school coaching: eyeballing the race vs live scoring updates
    15:00 — Who returns next year? All scoring runners were sophomores — four-peat challenge
    16:20 — Transfer/recruiting landscape + D1 roster limits discussion
    18:24 — Could some Stars end up at Grand Valley with Coach Baltes?
    19:08 — “They looked like they had fun” — mindset in cold/snow and mental prep
    22:37 — Fort Dodge chaos: slips/falls + the “bounce back” mentality
    23:01 — Wild moment: runner bumps into a golf cart
    23:41 — Celebration: awards in the cold + bus vibes afterward
    25:11 — Shoutouts: Lucas Hopkins, Quaid Schmidt, Logan Zan, Aiden James, Jesse Carson, Ben March
    26:57 — Winning with Michigan kids + pride in local development + year-over-year improvement
    31:14 — Track & field at LCC + why two seasons = one sport (distance running)
    32:00 — Winter base training → January specificity → indoor unattached meets → official practice in March
    33:54 — Thanksgiving segment: favorite holiday + green bean casserole duty + pecan/pumpkin pie
    35:05 — Wrap: congrats + Happy Thanksgiving + “they don’t rebuild, they reload” + value-for-value close
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    37 Min.