In Episode 066 of the Athletor Podcast, we're joined by Steve Mytych, Assistant Coach at Rutgers, who brings a wealth of experience from both the competitive and coaching sides of wrestling. This discussion delves into the critical aspects of youth wrestling culture and the influence of parenting on young athletes' careers. Steve shares poignant insights from his time on the camp circuit, illustrating common mistakes he observes in wrestling parents and the often overlooked emotional toll of...

In Episode 065 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Neil Erisman, the pioneering head coach at the University of Little Rock, Arkansas, who is charting a new course in collegiate wrestling. Neil, an Oklahoma State alum, shares his insights on transitioning from a wrestling powerhouse led by John Smith to building a new program from the ground up. We celebrate a monumental achievement for Little Rock wrestling as the team secured their first All-American at the NCAAs this year, marking a...

In Episode 064 of the Athletor Podcast, we welcome Shane Griffith, an NCAA Champion and 4X NCAA All-American, to share his journey through the wrestling world. Shane opens up about his early experiences in New Jersey, discussing how he first got into wrestling and the influence of his family's supportive, non-pressuring approach. He also reflects on the pivotal decision to attend Bergen Catholic High School and the thought process behind his choice of Stanford for college, exploring the stark...

In Episode 063 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Matt Valenti, the Associate Head Coach at Penn and a 2x NCAA Champion, to explore his dynamic transition from an administrative role back to the hands-on world of coaching. Matt discusses the motivations behind his shift and compares the broad, strategic influence he had in administration to the direct, interpersonal impact he achieves as a coach. This conversation highlights his unique perspective on effecting change in both...

In Episode 062 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Mike Grey, head coach of Cornell University and a 2X NCAA All-American. Mike dives into the strategic nuances of coaching at the NCAAs, revealing his approach to assisting wrestlers with their game plans and the multifaceted considerations involved in preparing for high-stakes competition. The discussion offers a detailed look into Cornell's personalized training methodology, beginning with the initial evaluation of a wrestler's...

In Episode 061 of the Athletor Podcast, we're joined by the dynamic Austin Gomez, a 2X NCAA All-American, NCAA Finalist, and 2024 Olympic Qualifier, to reflect on his thrilling journey through the NCAA tournament. Austin opens up about his and Coach Kevin Jackson's approach to training and match strategy, revealing whether any significant changes were made to secure his spot as one of wrestling's elite. He shares insights into how he managed to inject excitement into the NCAA finals, a feat...

In Episode 060 of the Athletor Podcast, we welcome Scott Goodale, the head coach at Rutgers University and the winningest coach in the program's storied history. This episode delves into the highs and lows of the 2023-24 wrestling season, questioning whether it can be marked as a success and spotlighting the achievements of B1G champion at 133, Dylan Shawver. Coach Goodale shares insightful details about Shawver's remarkable season turnaround, his mindset transformation, and his victories...

In Episode 059 of the Athletor Podcast, we're joined by Zach Rey, a celebrated NCAA Champion, 3X NCAA All-American, and the current assistant coach at Lehigh University. Zach delves into the intricacies of recruiting for a prestigious institution like Lehigh, where academic excellence sets a high bar for admissions. He shares his insights on the unique challenges and opportunities that come with being a part of a wrestling-centric school that still faces limitations in resources and...

In Episode 058 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with John Stutzman, the esteemed Head Coach at the University of Buffalo, to dive into the nuances of collegiate wrestling from the perspective of a smaller school. John shares his insights on the unique challenges and advantages of working within a smaller athletic program compared to larger universities, highlighting his approach to recruiting and the essential qualities he looks for in potential wrestlers. He opens up about evaluating...

In Episode 057 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with the remarkably versatile Stephen Neal, known not only for his wrestling prowess as a World Champion and 2X NCAA Champion but also for his remarkable career in the NFL as a 3x Super Bowl Champion with the New England Patriots. Stephen delves into the mindset required to excel in two drastically different sports, sharing his approach to strategy in wrestling and what it took to stand out to a legendary coach like Bill Belichick. Beyond...

In Episode 056 of the Athletor Podcast, we welcome Reece Humphrey, a World Medalist, 2X NCAA All-American, and the current Assistant Coach at Princeton. Reece opens up about his multifaceted life, sharing insights into his podcasting ventures and musical interests, revealing a side of him that goes beyond the mat. His approach to learning new skills, dealing with failure, and engaging in adult wrestling offers listeners a comprehensive look at the mindset of an elite athlete turned...

In Episode 055 of the Athletor Podcast, we're joined by Brandon Eggum, the esteemed Head Coach of the University of Minnesota's wrestling team and a 3x NCAA All-American. Brandon gives us an inside look at the Gophers' unique approach to practice scheduling, shedding light on how unconventional methods contribute to their success. As the leader of what has been dubbed "Heavyweight U," Eggum discusses the allure of Minnesota for top heavyweight talent and provides insightful comparisons...

In Episode 054 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Cruse Aarhus, a dedicated coach at Immortal Athletes Wrestling Club and proud alumnus of the UNI Wrestling class of 2012. Cruse shares his unique journey in wrestling, from his early days on the mat to his current role as a full-time coach outside the traditional collegiate athletics environment. This conversation explores the passion and dedication required to develop the sport at the grassroots level and the unique perspective Cruse...

In Episode 53 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Troy Nickerson, Head Coach at the University of Northern Colorado and former NCAA National Champion. With a decade of experience at UNC and insights from his time as an assistant coach under Kevin Jackson at Iowa State, Troy brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the table. This episode delves deep into his journey over the past ten years, highlighting the remarkable progress and development of the UNC wrestling program under his...

In Episode 52 of the Athletor Podcast, we're excited to welcome Cliff Fretwell, a dynamic figure in the wrestling community. As the owner of Compound Wrestling and Compound Sportswear, Cliff is well-known for his entrepreneurial spirit, coaching prowess, and his relentless hustle in the world of wrestling. His insights are invaluable to anyone passionate about the sport, whether they're on the mat or supporting from the sidelines. This episode takes a deep dive into Cliff's reflections on...

In Episode 51 of the Athletor Podcast, we're joined by Becca Roper, the Museum Manager of the National Wrestling Hall of Fame and a dedicated wrestling enthusiast. Becca shares her unique wrestling origin story, delving into her experiences of growing up in Georgia within a family deeply rooted in the sport. The episode takes an interesting turn as Becca discusses her involvement in recreational wrestling as an adult, highlighting the sport's impact beyond competitive arenas. She also shares...

Episode 50 of the Athletor Podcast features an insightful conversation with Zack Esposito, whose impressive credentials include being a USA Wrestling Freestyle Developmental Coach and a former NCAA National Champion with three All-American titles. As a coach, Esposito has been instrumental in guiding wrestlers to a remarkable ten NCAA titles. In this episode, Zack delves into his ongoing journey of learning and growth, both in and out of the wrestling world. The discussion explores Zack's...

In Episode 49 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with the multifaceted Johnni DiJulius, a four-time NCAA qualifier with over 100 NCAA wins. Johnni's diverse background extends beyond the wrestling mat, as he's also an avid base jumper and skydiver. His coaching stints at Harvard and Kent State add to his rich profile in the wrestling community. This episode offers a deep dive into Johnni's unique blend of athletics, adventure, and personal philosophy. Johnni opens up about his...

In Episode 48 of the Athletor Podcast, we are joined by Frank Molinaro, an Olympian, US Open Champion, NCAA National Champion, and two-time NCAA All-American, who currently serves as an assistant coach at Arizona State University (ASU). Frank brings a wealth of experience from both his competitive days and his coaching career. This episode delves into the contrasts between life on the West Coast compared to the East Coast, exploring the nuances of lifestyle and wrestling culture. Frank...

In Episode 47 of the Athletor Podcast, we're joined by the accomplished wrestler Jaydin Eierman, a 4X NCAA All American and 2021 US Open Champion, currently competing at 65kg for the Hawkeye Wrestling Club. Jaydin delves into the unique expectations and challenges of wrestling in Iowa, explaining how the environment and culture there set it apart. He talks candidly about his method of 'breaking opponents' and his seamless transition from college wrestling to the senior level. This transition...

In Episode 46 of the Athletor Podcast, we welcome freestyle All-American and four-time NCAA qualifier Taylor Lujan. With his insightful perspective as a 2018 Big12 Champion, Taylor dives deep into the world of collegiate wrestling. This episode sheds light on the intensity of 'hard, stupid workouts' and the psychological aspect of 'breaking' during practice. Taylor reflects on the importance of maintaining perspective, especially noting the changes in his viewpoint since transitioning to a...

In Episode 45 of the Athletor Podcast, we welcome Kevin Dresser, the esteemed head coach of Iowa State University and 2019 NWCA Coach of the Year. A former NCAA National Champion and two-time All-American, Dresser brings a wealth of experience and insight to the show. This episode delves into the philosophy of avoiding moral victories and the importance of taking ownership in the sport. Dresser shares his approach to enhancing an athlete's inherent strengths and discusses the fervent support...

In Episode 44 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Jody Strittmatter, the co-founder of Young Guns Wrestling Club and a highly respected figure in the wrestling community. Jody, a 4X All-American and 2X Big Ten Champion, brings an impressive coaching resume, having mentored athletes who have secured 5 world titles, 9 NCAA titles, and numerous state accolades. This episode dives into the origins of the Young Guns Wrestling Club and explores Jody's successful approach to developing young...

In Episode 43 of the Athletor Podcast, we're joined by David McFadden, a distinguished wrestler with an impressive list of credentials including being a Resident Athlete at Pennsylvania RTC, a Volunteer Assistant at Drexel University, a US Open Champion, and a 3x NCAA All-American. In this engaging episode, David opens up about the intricate balance he maintains between coaching and competing at the highest level, offering a unique perspective on the dual roles. The conversation delves...