Big Stories

Before he became a seven-time Pro Bowl linebacker, Lance Briggs was the smallest kid on his team—and terrified of contact. In this episode, host Cleon Wall, producer Brandon Crowe, and director Zane O'Gwin trace the former Arizona Wildcat's evolution on and off the field. From his passion for comic books and youth coaching to a graphic novel inspired by his childhood, candid stories from Lance, his mom, and former teammates reveal an NFL legend who never forgot his roots.

Season 4 of The Big Stories Podcast begins with the incredible rise of the Utah Tech pickleball team and how they put people before pickleball. Host Cleon Wall is joined by producer Ben Bagley and director Travis Moore to explore BYUtv's Big Story on the Trailblazer team that transformed from a campus social club into one of the country's most dominant collegiate programs. Beyond the wins, this episode highlights the culture built by coach Chloe Butterfield and the life-changing friendships that helped players like Mary Monson overcome personal challenges and find a sense of family.

The Big Stories Podcast is back on September 3. In this season preview, host Cleon Wall discusses the podcast's exciting partnership with BYUtv and teases some of the incredible stories featured in season four.

In our final installment of the summer BYUTV Big Stories rewind series, host Cleon Wall recaps two more of BYUTV's big stories from season 3. First, former UFC champion Rich Franklin shares how he traded fame and championship belts for something more meaningful — faith and community. Then, NFL veteran Latavius Murray opens up about losing his best friend and how he's turning tragedy into a lasting legacy for kids in his hometown. Two stories about finding purpose beyond the spotlight. Check out the full stories at BYUSN.com

In this episode, host Cleon Wall takes you through two more inspiring stories from Big Stories Season 3 on BYUtv. First, meet Graham Harrell — Texas Tech legend and Ring of Honor inductee. Beyond his record-breaking passing career, Graham's story is one of faith, family, and resilience, from his father's battle with multiple sclerosis to navigating the highs and lows of a coaching career that eventually led him right where he was meant to be. Then, we turn to TCU's James Cash — a trailblazer who became the first Black athlete at TCU and the first Black basketball scholarship athlete in the Southwest Conference. From facing racial prejudice on and off the court to earning tenure at Harvard Business School and joining the Boston Celtics ownership group, Dr. Cash's life is a testament to what's possible when you keep climbing the stairs. Check out the full stories on BYUSN.com

The Big Stories team is excited to check in again and feature two more stories from BYUTV's Big Stories last fall. From small-town Fruitland, Idaho, Jordan Gross went on to play offensive line at the University of Utah, was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in 2003, and had a successful NFL career. After retiring, he returned home to coach football at his high school, becoming a beloved mentor to his players. He has since come full circle and was hired as the University of Utah's newest offensive line coach. Next, meet David Carr, who is carrying on the legendary wrestling legacy of his father, three-time NCAA champion Nate Carr, at Iowa State. Known for his fierce rivalry with Missouri's Keegan O'Toole, David has continued competing at the highest level after college, all while mentoring the next generation of wrestlers. Watch to the full stories on BYUSN.com

Welcome back to another bi-weekly feature of BYUTV's Big Stories episodes from last fall. First, meet Kevin Pittsnogle, a former Mountaineer basketball star known for his sharpshooting on the court. After stepping away from the game, he earned a master's degree in special education and became a middle school principal, transforming a struggling school and proving that the labels placed on us don't have to define who we become. Then, hear from Amanda Beard, who won three Olympic medals — but the pressure and spotlight that came with early fame took a serious toll. She battled eating disorders, self-harm, and depression while continuing to compete at the highest level. Her story is one of raw resilience: how she fought through her darkest moments and now uses her experiences to coach and inspire the next generation of swimmers. Listen to the full stories on BYUSN.com

Welcome back to another bi-weekly check-in as we prepare to join forces with BYUtv's Big Stories this fall. In the meantime, enjoy an update from a couple of their episodes from last fall. First, meet Lex Gillette — a Paralympic long jump champion who lost his sight at age eight and went on to become one of the most decorated blind athletes in the world. Today, he dedicates his life to helping others see possibilities they never thought were within reach. Then, meet Peggy Coppom — the 100-year-old University of Colorado superfan who spent decades cheering on the Buffs long before anyone knew her name. Her friendship with Coach Deion Sanders turned her into a national story, but her legacy was built on something far simpler: showing up with faith, kindness, and love. Watch the full BYUtv Big Stories episodes at byusn.com.

As host Cleon Wall and the Big Stories podcast team readies for a new season, they kick off a new biweekly check-in series as the podcast joins forces with BYUtv's Big Stories franchise this fall. And during these check-ins, they will also share some of the episodes BYUtv shared last fall. First, meet Julius Thomas — a Portland State basketball player who walked past the football field every day, decided to try the sport at age 22, and went on to become an NFL Pro Bowler with the Denver Broncos. But his most impressive achievement came after football: Julius earned a doctoral degree in clinical psychology and now helps retired professional athletes rediscover their purpose and identity after sports. Then, hear the story of Spencer Jones — a Stanford basketball standout who became the program's all-time leading three-point shooter, went undrafted, refused to quit, and ultimately earned a roster spot with the NBA's Denver Nuggets. His journey is a testament to outworking doubt. Two athletes. Two paths. One big reminder: your greatest impact often comes not from what you accomplish for yourself, but from how you use those accomplishments to serve others. Watch the full BYUtv Big Stories episodes at byusn.com.

From faith-filled miracles to moments of unexpected kindness, this season brought some truly incredible stories from real people living extraordinary lives. Thank you to every guest who opened up and shared a piece of their journey, and to every listener who tuned in. As we close out Season 3, host Cleon Wall reflects on where the show has been — and where it's headed. Season 4 brings Big Stories back to its roots: uplifting, inspiring tales from the Big 12 and beyond, produced in partnership with BYUtv. Expect familiar faces checking back in, brand-new stories from across the Big 12 conference, and a more video-friendly format. Season 4 drops this fall — and it just might be the best one yet.

Just like that, we have come to the end of another season of the Big Stories Podcast. Join producer/host Cleon Wall and assistant producer Brandon Thorpe as they discuss their favorite moments from season 3. Next week, join us as we reveal what we have planned for season 4. We can't wait to bring you more amazing and inspiring tales from around the Big 12 conference!

Kaitlyn Amos was a competitive soccer player for Baylor University — but an unexpected diagnosis during her freshman year changed everything. What followed was nearly a decade of navigating a serious heart condition, making difficult medical decisions, and figuring out who she was without the sport that had defined her. Along the way, she encountered a series of setbacks and unlikely turning points that ultimately led her to a new career as a cardiovascular genetic counselor, where she now sits on the other side of the table — helping patients face the kind of news she once received herself. Guests: Kaitlyn Amos - Cardiovascular Genetic Counselor at UVA Health Maegan Moore - Kaitlyn's cousin

Scott Springer of the Cincinnati Enquirer joins to assess the state of the Bearcats now that Brendan Sorsby has transferred to Texas Tech — gambling allegations and all. We look at who steps in at quarterback, and whether head coach Scott Satterfield is on the hot seat after two late-season collapses. Then, we continue our series on new Big 12 quarterbacks. Scott Wright of The Oklahoman breaks down how Drew Mestemaker followed head coach Eric Morris from North Texas to Oklahoma State — and why that partnership could be special. Then, Tyler Carter of the Believe in Iowa State podcast introduces us to Jalen Raynor, the Arkansas State transfer tasked with replacing the beloved Rocco Becht in Ames. And in storylines, we talk about Texas Tech softball's stunning comeback, erasing an eight-run deficit with two outs in the seventh inning to advance to the Super Regionals.

Taylor Talbot grew up competing in track and field while losing her sight to a degenerative eye condition. After competing in the Paralympics, her path took an unexpected turn during her unique mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, eventually leading her away from the track and into the world of paratriathlon. Now based in Tucson, she’s training with Wesley Johnson, the head coach of the University of Arizona’s women’s triathlon program. In this episode, Taylor and Coach Wes talk about the road that brought them both here and the goals and aspirations they’re working towards in the future. Guests: Taylor Talbot - Paratriathlete Wesley Johnson - University of Arizona Women's Triathlete Head Coach

Collin Klein has come home. The former Kansas State QB and offensive coordinator is now the head coach of the Wildcats. In this podcast, host Cleon Wall talks with 3 Maw Podcast and Open for Business Podcast host John Kurtz about whether there is pressure on Klein in his first season. Then we take a look at another school involved in the quarterback carousel with the West Virginia Mountaineers. Ryan Decker from the Blue and Gold Nation weighs in on the unknown in Morgantown.

Big Stories host Cleon Wall had to take some time off for the funeral of a family member, so we decided to replay one of our favorite stories from Season 1. Former Texas Tech tennis coach Tim Siegel's son Luke suffered severe brain damage from a golf cart accident, but Tim's strength and faith in God carried him through years of caring for Luke. He also started Team Luke Hope for Minds — a foundation dedicated to supporting families through the devastating journey of traumatic childhood brain injuries. Guests: Tim Siegel - Team Luke Hope For Minds Executive Director

The Big 12 makes history as the first major college athletics conference to approve a private equity deal — but is it really a game-changer? We break down the partnership and what it could mean for the conference's next TV rights negotiation, with John Kurtz from the Open for Business Podcast. Then, we shift to the quarterback carousel spinning across the Big 12 this spring. Mark Van Sickle (Jayhawker Talker Podcast) previews the three-man QB battle in Lawrence, Kansas, while Richie Bradshaw (Devil's Advocate Podcast) sizes up Cutter Boley as Arizona State's new signal caller under Kenny Dillingham. Plus, Seth Dowdell (Believe in TCU Podcast) joins us for a full spring update on the Horned Frogs — new QB Jayden Craig, new offensive coordinator Gordon Samis, Andy Avalos's defense, and what a successful 2026 season looks like for Sonny Dykes.

While watching her son’s basketball practice, Stacy McDaniel noticed several kids sitting on the sidelines—not because they didn’t want to play, but because they lacked the proper equipment. What began as a personal response to a problem she couldn’t ignore grew into one of the most impactful youth sports nonprofits in the state: Cleats for Kids. In this episode, Stacy shares powerful moments from helping kids find their place on the court and field, the challenges of building an organization from the ground up, and why she believes access to sports can be life‑changing for a child’s future. Guests: Stacy McDaniel - Executive Director and Co-Founder of Cleats For Kids A. Jaye Johnson -  Vice President of the Boys and Girls Clubs of Oklahoma County

New coaches, big questions, and conference milestones — it's all happening in the Big 12. We break down the five biggest storylines, including Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby's NCAA gambling investigation. Then, we dive into our query of the week: how will new coaches fare in new places? Locked On Oklahoma State's Cody Stovall previews the Eric Morris era in Stillwater, and Ben Hutchins of the Quad City Times looks at what Jimmy Rogers is building in Ames after Matt Campbell's departure to Penn State. Finally, we head to Boulder for a spring football check-in with the Colorado Buffaloes. Brian Howell of the Boulder Daily Camera breaks down what Coach Prime is working with in Year 4, from a high-volume transfer class to a new offensive system and a last-minute defensive coordinator change.

Kim Dobbs has been a Bearcat longer than she can remember — and after 30 years as an elementary school teacher, she found a new way to invest in the next generation. She now funds multiple scholarships for UC student athletes, walking alongside them as a mentor, attending their games, and hosting them for dinners. In this episode, Kim reflects on her deep roots at Cincinnati, the legacy she's building in honor of her late husband, and why giving back and investing in the University of Cincinnati is what it means to be "Boldly Bearcat." Guests: Kim Dobbs - Philanthropist and Cincinnati Graduate Brooke Atwood - UC student and member of the dance team Reid Ryan - UC student and member of the cheer squad Picture Credit: The UC Foundation

Spring sports are dominating the Big 12, but Big Stories is locked in on spring football. Host Cleon Wall debuts a new format that brings together short, insightful clips from podcasters and reporters across the conference, breaking down the biggest storylines shaping the football landscape. In storylines, we discuss two schools with brand-new head coaches: Utah and Kansas State. Alex Markham from the Ute Nation Podcast explains why it was the right time for Morgan Scalley to take over at Utah, and Drew Galloway of K-State Online talks about why Colin Klein wants to get back to the basics. Then, it’s story time in central Texas. Zach Smith of the Waco Tribune joins the show to discuss Baylor football’s evolving identity, spotlighting fresh faces at quarterback and a revamped defensive look heading into the fall.

When Anthony Weatherspoon suited up for the Colorado Buffaloes, he wasn't just a fullback — he was the kind of teammate people never forgot. So when leukemia threatened his life, his former brothers in black and gold refused to stand on the sidelines. What started as a rallying cry for one of their own became something much bigger: Buffs4Life, a foundation built on the belief that being a Colorado Buffalo doesn't end when your playing days do. In this episode, we explore how that spirit of loyalty has carried families through illness, loss, financial hardship, and grief — and why, more than 20 years later, the Buffs are still showing up for each other, shoulder to shoulder. Guests: Lance Carl - President of the Buffs4Life Foundation Debra Spivey

College basketball's offseason is officially here, and it's chaotic — but is that a bad thing? Host Cleon Wall breaks down the biggest storylines of the week, starting with the transfer portal frenzy reshaping rosters across the Big 12. Then, the NBA Draft picture comes into focus as ESPN finally reshuffles their top 100 — and BYU's AJ Dybantsa edges out Kansas' Darren Peterson for the top spot. What does that mean for both players heading into their professional careers? Plus, All Sports Tucson's Steve Rivera joins to wrap up Arizona's remarkable season — a record-setting run that fell just short of playing in the national title game. What made this Wildcats team so special, why Tommy Lloyd chose to stay in Tucson over the lure of North Carolina, and who will be the hardest player to replace?

Isaiah Kaufusi’s football journey didn’t follow the storybook ending. After going undrafted and bouncing between NFL rosters, he eventually stepped away from the game in search of something bigger than football. What followed was an unexpected calling—one sparked by BYU Head Football Coach Kalani Sitake. At Sitake’s request, Kaufusi teamed up with former BYU center Connor Pay to launch a nonprofit with a bold mission: create meaningful employment opportunities in Tonga and beyond. The result is The We Are One Foundation, an organization partnering with BYU–Pathway Worldwide to connect students across the South Pacific and Africa with remote work opportunities—and to build a first-of-its-kind employment center in Tonga. In this episode, Isaiah shares how the idea began, what they’re building right now, and why he believes the work happening in Tonga is only the beginning of something far bigger. Guests: Isaiah Kaufusi – President of The We Are One Foundation Connor Pay – BYU football analyst, Vice President of The We Are One Foundation

As the NCAA Tournament has come to an end, host Cleon Wall breaks down the latest storylines from around the conference- From Arizona falling apart in the Final Four, big-name coaches the likes of Bill Self and Tommy Lloyd sticking with their programs, West Virginia taking the Crown in Vegas, and transfer portal talk. Later in the show, story time will feature two teams that have their moments but ultimately fell short in The Big Dance. Adam Eaton from the Sons of UCF joins us to discuss the Knights' tournament appearance and season as a whole, and the Voice of the Cyclones, John Walters, joins the show to go over Iowa State's Sweet Sixteen run as well as the future of the program.

The Kansas Jayhawks, BYU Cougars, and TCU Horned Frogs all had seasons full of highs, heartbreaks, and what-ifs — and we're breaking it all down. Brian Hanni, the voice of the Kansas Jayhawks, talks about how Darryn Peterson's health woes created two completely different Kansas teams, the offensive inconsistencies that derailed a talented squad, and why Peterson could still be the top pick in the NBA Draft. BYU SportsNation co-host Jarom Jordan then talks about what AJ Dybantsa's time in Provo truly meant for the program, the wave of injuries that derailed Final Four dreams, and why BYU's best days may be still ahead. Melissa Trebwasser, host of the Frogs Insider Podcast, on TCU's remarkable turnaround — from losing their starting center in game one to finishing sixth in the Big 12 — and what it will take for Jamie Dixon's squad to finally break through in March. Plus, the biggest storylines from the college basketball landscape, including Arizona's stunning run to the Final Four and Houston's surprising Sweet 16 exit.

When the Big Stories team hit a recording snag, we reached back into the vault for a great story from Season 1 — and with March Madness in full swing, the timing couldn't be better. This week, we revisit our episode about Hot Rod Hundley — the Charleston, West Virginia native who became a West Virginia University basketball legend. Equal parts showman, entertainer, and flawed hero, Hot Rod dazzled crowds with behind-the-back passes, hook shots, and a personality that packed arenas long before the varsity game even tipped off. We hear from filmmaker Dan Loman, WVU's Director of Athletic Content John Antonik, bar owner Al Bonner, and Hot Rod's own daughters — painting a portrait of a man who was larger than life on the court, complicated off of it, and beloved by an entire state. From his hardscrabble childhood in Charleston to the retirement of his #33 jersey at WVU Coliseum, Hot Rod's hero's journey is messy, funny, and deeply human.

As the NCAA tournament rolls on, host Cleon Wall breaks down the latest storylines — from coaching hires at Arizona State and Cincinnati to the Sweet 16 performances of Arizona, Iowa State, and Houston. We also look at how Kansas and BYU fell short due to injuries, the potential top two NBA Draft picks in AJ Dybantsa and Darryn Peterson, and give credit to TCU and UCF for their tournament moments. Then, story time turns to two teams that didn't quite make the NCAA Tournament. Scott Wright of The Oklahoman joins to discuss Oklahoma State's progress under second-year coach Steve Lutz, and Blue and Gold Nation's Ryan Decker breaks down West Virginia's first season under Ross Hodge — a team built on defense that now heads to the College Basketball Crown to face Stanford.

In 2019, Roman Rozell captured national attention as a 35-year-old retired Green Beret and father of seven who walked onto the ASU wrestling team and earned a WWE tryout. But shortly after his viral moment, Roman's marriage ended, the WWE halted operations during COVID, and the pro wrestling career he'd chased dissolved. Soon enough, he found himself living in a camper, dealing with debt, and struggling with mental health. So, how did Roman rebound and start a business called Walk-On Warriors to help others like himself? Find out from the Walk-On Warrior himself. Guests: Roman Rozell - Former ASU Wrestler and Walk-On Warriors Founder Scott French - DDPY Instructor and Roman's friend and mentor

The NCAA Tournament is here, and the Big 12 has plenty of storylines heading into the big dance. Host Cleon Wall also offers a public apology to During storytime, Cleon talks about two teams that didn't make the NCAA Tourney and are now looking for new head coaches. He speaks with Michelle Gardner of the Arizona Republic about Bobby Hurley's tenure, the state of the ASU program, and the challenge of attracting coaching talent to Tempe. Then, Nick Niehouse of the Chatterbox Bearcats podcast joins to break down Cincinnati's gut-wrenching overtime loss to UCF, what Wes Miller's dismissal means for the program, and what the Bearcats roster could look like next season.

Growing up in Finland with only one hand never slowed down Tanja Kari. If anything, it fueled her. She tore up the cross‑country ski trails with such determination that she eventually became a Paralympic legend—winning an incredible 12 gold medals across four Games. But ask Tanja today about her proudest accomplishment, and she might point to the work she’s doing long after her competitive career ended. Now at the University of Utah’s Craig H. Nielsen Rehabilitation Hospital, Tanja leads the TRAILS program—short for Technology, Recreation, Access, Independence, Lifestyle, and Sports. And what she’s building there is nothing short of transformative. Through TRAILS, people with complex disabilities aren’t just getting therapy. They’re rediscovering independence and adventure. Much of that comes from innovations like the TetraSki—a groundbreaking piece of adaptive equipment engineered by university students and brought to life in the hospital’s own mechanical shop. Thanks to tools like these, individuals who once watched from the sidelines are now skiing down mountains, wake surfing, and even finishing marathons. Guests: Tanja Kari - Program Director at TRAILS Adaptive Kimberly Kolstad - Social worker at Neilsen Rehabilitation Hospital and adaptive sports athlete

Join host Cleon Wall as he breaks down the conclusion of the Big 12 men's basketball regular season. In this episode, we cover the conference awards announcements, including a surprising Player of the Year selection, and dive into the five biggest storylines heading into tournament play. In our featured interview, Ashley Hodge from Sic'Em 365 joins us to discuss Baylor's disappointing season. We explore what went wrong for the Bears despite having two dynamic NBA-level guards in Cameron Carr and Tounde Yessoufou, the impact of losing their point guard late in the transfer portal, and what Scott Drew needs to do to get the program back to competing for Big 12 championships.

Ayoka Lee made history on January 23rd, 2022, when she scored 61 points against Oklahoma, setting the NCAA single-game scoring record. She seemed destined for a professional career, but after leading Kansas State to the Sweet 16 in her final season, she decided to walk away from basketball. Now, Ayoka has her dream job as a mental health clinician at Kansas State, helping student athletes navigate the same pressures and challenges she once faced. From injuries and setbacks to the weight of expectations, she now uses her experience to support Wildcats through their own struggles—finding purpose and joy in serving the athletic department that gave her so much. Guests: Ayoka Lee - Mental Health Clinician for Kansas State Athletics Sydney Goodson Samson - Former Kansas State Women's Basketball Player

As the Big 12 regular season winds down, Cleon Wall kicks off a series of deep‑dive team evaluations with insights from podcasters across the conference. This episode focuses on Kansas State and Utah—two programs looking to rebuild and rise from the bottom of the standings. First, John Kurtz of the 3MAW Podcast breaks down Kansas State’s turbulent season, including the fallout from Jerome Tang’s mid‑season dismissal, what the Wildcats should prioritize in their next head coach, and whether stars like P.J. Haggerty are likely to return to Manhattan next year. Then, Alex Markham of the Ute Nation Podcast joins to discuss Utah’s first season under head coach Alex Jensen. Despite the bumps, Markham explains why Ute fans should stay patient and how the foundation is being laid for long‑term success. Cleon also zooms out to the biggest storylines in the Big 12, including how Texas Tech has adapted without JT Toppin, and BYU has struggled after losing Richie Saunders to injury.

Andrew Cherico grew up in Washington Heights, New York, living with Spinal Muscular Atrophy—a condition that left him in a wheelchair by age nine. While he wasn’t able to play, his passion for sports never stopped growing. When his oldest brother, Roman, died by suicide in 2019, Andrew made a promise: to carry his brother’s name as loudly and proudly as he could. That promise led him to UCF, where he pursued sports journalism despite the challenges. In September 2024, Andrew got his big break—asking Colorado's Coach Deion Sanders a question at a post-game press conference. In this podcast episode, find out what happened next and how it has changed Andrew's life. Guests: Andrew Cherico - UCF Student and Sons of UCF Reporter Trace Trylko - Host and Executive Producer of the Sons of UCF live show If you or someone you know is in crisis, please call, text, or chat with the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline at 988, or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741.

Big Stories host Cleon Wall is joined by Seth Dowdle from the Bleav in TCU podcast and Tyler Carter from the Bleav in Iowa State podcast to break down two of the Big 12’s most intriguing teams. They dive into TCU’s roller‑coaster season, Iowa State’s resilience after tough losses, and what it all means heading into the postseason. Cleon also takes a closer look at the NCAA Tournament bubble picture and which squads are best positioned to snag the No. 1 seed in the Big 12 Tournament. All that and more on this week’s episode of Big Stories.

Host Cleon Wall will be back next week with more inspiring and uplifting tales from around the Big 12 conference. But this week, we are featuring one of BYUradio's other great podcasts. It's called Voiceover: Movies That Move Us. In this episode, host Heather Bigley is joined by Rob Taber to discuss the movie Remember the Titans with Denzel Washington and Will Patton. Rob Taber is an associate professor of history at Fayetteville State University. His research areas include Latin America and the Caribbean, the Black Atlantic (1400-1900), Slavery, Revolutions, and African-American History.

A new podcast format is here—bigger conversations, deeper insights. This week, Jeff Sharon of the Knight Shift podcast helps us navigate UCF’s struggles, while Voice of the Buffs Mark Johnson sheds light on why Colorado's young guys might be on the cusp of something big, just maybe not this year. But host Cleon Wall doesn’t shy away from the biggest storylines: the fallout of Jerome Tang’s firing, tough injury news for BYU’s Richie Saunders, and a new name pushing into the Big 12 Player of the Year race.

Texas horned lizards, the spiky, blood-squirting reptiles that inspired TCU's mascot, once filled backyards across the Lone Star State. But since the 1960s, these iconic creatures have been vanishing from their native habitat. TCU is assisting Texas Parks and Wildlife and local zoos in an ambitious conservation effort to bring them back: raising baby horned lizards in captivity, studying their survival, and releasing them into the wild. In this episode, you’ll follow the surprising, hands-on work behind horned lizard conservation—tracking tiny reptiles with radio tags, using hot dogs to target invasive fire ants, and studying the hidden places these little creatures choose to survive. Guests: Dean Williams - Professor of Biology at TCU Kira Gangbin- TCU PhD Candidate

Who will take home Big 12 Player of the Year? Will a breakout freshman like BYU’s A.J. Dybantsa or Houston’s Kingston Flemings steal the spotlight? Or will a proven veteran—Texas Tech’s Christian Anderson or J.T. Toppin—rise above the field? Host Cleon Wall breaks down the top contenders for both Player of the Year and Freshman of the Year awards and is glad he doesn't have a vote. We also dive into what’s really going on with BYU basketball and why the Cougars aren’t looking like themselves lately. Then, we wrap up a historic Red Raiders football season with insight from Locked On Texas Tech host Chris Level. All that and more on this week’s edition of The Big Stories Podcast.

Troy DeJoode's life changed forever in May 2010 when a tragic car accident took his five-month-old daughter Claire and five-year-old son Carson. Hours later, he made the agonizing decision to donate both children's organs, not knowing just how much that decision would bless the lives of others. Hundreds of miles away in Utah, five-month-old Landen Bowers was facing multiple health challenges. Born with a failing heart, he had just days to live. His father bought him a stuffed lion from the gift shop, symbolizing the courage Landen would need. Then came the call: a heart was available. Landen's parents accepted Claire's heart, and with it arrived a small stuffed lamb—a final gift from the DeJoode family. Today, Landen is a determined teenager with dreams of becoming an airline pilot. He calls Troy his "heart dad," and the two families remain inseparably connected. Through foundation work, visits, and an enduring friendship, they've transformed unspeakable loss into a legacy of hope, proving that one selfless decision can echo across generations. Guests: Troy DeJoode Tammy and Landen Bowers

Join host Cleon Wall for the latest edition of Big Stories, featuring the question of whether any team can catch the Arizona Wildcats at the top of the Big 12 basketball standings. Plus, Kansas's Darryn Peterson slightly outshines BYU's AJ Dybantsa in a matchup of NBA draft picks. And we take a look at the surprise teams - BYU and UCF - in the middle of the conference pack. We also have an in-depth conversation about Arizona State football's 2025 season, the impact of injuries, Kenny Dillingham's contract extension, and what's next for the Sun Devils in 2026. Guests: Anthony Totri - PHNX Sun Devils Podcaster

When volleyball legend Flo Hyman collapsed on the bench during a routine match in Japan in 1986, the world lost one of its greatest athletes at just 31 years old. But her story didn't end there. In this episode of Big Stories, host Cleon Wall explores the remarkable life of former Houston Cougar Flo Hyman—a six-foot-five powerhouse who helped transform USA volleyball into a world-class program, earned Olympic silver in 1984, and inspired countless athletes with her humility and drive. In this podcast episode, we discover the woman behind the legend: someone who shared her scholarship, trained in secret to perfect her weaknesses, and lifted everyone around her. Flo's sudden death from Marfan Syndrome shocked the sports world, but it sparked a medical awareness revolution that has saved countless lives. Join us as we honor Flo Hyman and her courage, impact, and legacy that still rises above the net. Guests: Ruth Nelson - Former University of Houston volleyball coach and Flo's lifelong friend Debbie Green - Former U.S Olympic volleyball player and teammate of Flo Eileen Novins - Chief Global and Business Development Officer for the Marfan Syndrome Foundation

Host Cleon Wall breaks down the Top 5 storylines in the Big 12, including the race for the conference scoring title. He also spotlights the Big 12’s phenomenal freshman class—from Koa Peat and Kingston Flemings to AJ Dybantsa and more—who are already reshaping the conference title chase. Then, in this week’s Storytime, Cleon looks back at the roller‑coaster football seasons of the Houston Cougars and BYU Cougars. All that and more on this edition of The Big Stories Podcast. Guests: Joseph Duarte - Houston Chronicle Jason Shepher - BYU SportsNation and BYUradio Sports Host

Host Cleon Wall wraps up the Big 12 football season for a couple of Big 12 teams. One that lost its coach and the other that lost its way. First, the Baylor Bears - a team with a defensive-minded head coach who couldn't stop anyone. Locked on Baylor host Cameron Stewart breaks down why the Bears' defense collapsed. Plus, a tribute to quarterback Sawyer Robertson's stellar career and a look ahead to incoming QB DJ Lagway. Then, the Utah Utes - Kyle Whittingham's final season before his departure to Michigan. KSL.com's Josh Furlong reflects on Utah's impressive 11-win bounce-back season, the energy shift under new head coach Morgan Scalley, and what the future holds with offensive coordinator Kevin McGiven bringing a more explosive, pass-first mentality to Salt Lake City. Guests: Cam Stewart - Locked on Baylor Podcast Host Josh Furlong - KSL.com Sports Director and Host of the Utah Checkdown Podcast

Darryn and Arryn Chenault share a bond that goes far beyond football. Darryn introduced his nephew to the game, sparking a passion that led Arryn to play defensive back for the University of Cincinnati. Over the years, they’ve coached together—and even against each other—at high schools across Cincinnati. But their connection deepened in an extraordinary way when Arryn saved his uncle’s life by donating a kidney, a decision inspired by the heartbreaking loss of his own father to a heart attack. This is a story about family, resilience, and the ultimate act of giving—a second chance at life. Guests: Darryn Chenault - University of Cincinnati Police Officer, Sycamore High School Head Football Coach Arryn Chenault - Winton Woods Asst. Principal, Sycamore Assistant Football Coach, Former Cincinnati Bearcats Football Player

Host Cleon Wall breaks down the Big 12 basketball landscape—from the teams struggling at the bottom to the crowded middle and the elite contenders at the top. PHNX podcast host Damon Fairall joins to explain why Arizona sits at No. 1 in the nation, dominating opponents with size, athleticism, and relentless rebounding. Plus, Chatterbox Bearcats host Charlie Walter sheds light on Cincinnati’s challenges and what’s gone wrong for the Bearcats this season. Damon and Charlie also share their biggest takeaways from the Wildcats’ and Bearcats’ football campaigns.

At 66, Judith Johnson did something extraordinary—she joined the Texas Tech marching band. But for Judith, maybe it wasn’t so unexpected. In this episode of Big Stories, Judith opens up about the heartbreak of being told she couldn’t major in music, the rebellious path that followed, and how—thanks to the Texas Senior Academy Program and her husband, Jerry—she is finally studying music and is the Goin' Band from Raiderland's marching grandma. Plus, discover how Texas Tech’s spotlight on her journey is inspiring others to dive into their own dreams, no matter their age. Judith proves it’s never too late to make a splash. Guests: Judith Johnson - Texas Tech Music Student, Member of the Goin' Band from Raiderland Jerry Johnson - Judith's husband

This week, we break down the top five headlines in Big 12 basketball and football, including in-depth conversations with Jamie Plunkett of Horned Frog Blitz and Tyler Carter from the BELEAV in Iowa State Podcast. Discover why TCU basketball is turning heads, how Iowa State is making waves in the rankings, and what’s next for both programs as they navigate the challenges of the season. We also cover the latest upsets in Big 12 women’s basketball, the impact of the football transfer portal, and a look back at TCU and Iowa State's football season with insights on coaching changes, player departures, and what the future holds for your favorite teams. Plus, will people look down on the Big 12 after the bowl season?

Get ready for the most wonderful time of the year—Big 12 basketball season! Host Cleon Wall previews his favorite matchups heading into the first weekend of the conference basketball season. Then, we chat with podcasters covering Kansas, Kansas State, Baylor, and Colorado to discuss how their hoops squads have performed during the non-conference slate and what we can expect when those teams begin Big 12 action. Finally, some of those podcasters return to wrap up their team's football season, and when we can expect gridiron greatness. Guests: Ashley Hodge - Sic'Em 365 Pat Rooney - Boulder Daily Camera Tim Fitzgerald - GoPowercat.com Mark Van Sickle - Jayhawker Talker Podcast