The Heart of Sports

On this edition of The Heart of Sports with Jason Springer & Jeff Cohen, we explore two very different stories connected by perseverance, leadership, and the impact sports can have far beyond wins and losses.Award-winning NFL writer and longtime Pro Football Hall of Fame voter Paul Domowitch joins us to discuss his new book, Just Give Me a Chance to Fail: The Life of NFL Hall of Fame Linebacker Sam Mills. Paul takes us inside Mills’ remarkable journey from an undersized player repeatedly told he couldn't make it to one of the most respected linebackers in NFL history. We discuss Mills’ Philadelphia roots, his relationship with Vic Fangio, the story behind “Keep Pounding,” his long road to Canton, and the legacy that remains more than two decades after his death. Paul also gives his thoughts on the Eagles and what to expect from their offense this season. Then, Philadelphia basketball legend Phil Martelli returns to the show to talk about his new Philadelphia Coaching Academy and his mission to give volunteer youth basketball coaches the tools they need to teach the game the right way. Coach Martelli explains why youth practices need structure and purpose, what parents can do to support coaches without interfering, and why youth sports should be about development, joy, and education rather than scholarships and unrealistic expectations. We also discuss the changing world of college basketball and why Martelli believes coaches who remain transformational rather than transactional can still succeed.

The Heart of Sports continued our conversations from inside the Trenton Thunder dugout about baseball, preparation, and the relationships that shape the game.Former MLB All-Star Preston Wilson joins Thunder manager and former teammate Shawn Chacón to reflect on their years together with the Colorado Rockies, the preparation behind Wilson’s success, and why creating the right clubhouse culture matters when developing young players.We also talk with Thunder pitchers Billy Morris and John Higgins about chasing their baseball dreams, learning from coaches with major-league experience, and handling the mental challenges of a game built around failure. Thunder infielder Cy Turner even joins the conversation to explain what players really say during a mound visit.

This week on the Heart of Sports, we talk with PhillyVoice Sixers reporter Adam Aaronson about the franchise’s dramatic transformation, including LeBron James, Jaylen Brown, Joel Embiid, and a much deeper roster. Then, from the Trenton Thunder dugout, AJ Swader and Julian “Juju” Stevens share their baseball journeys, the work required to pursue a professional career, and the mental toughness needed to keep chasing the dream.

This week on The Heart of Sports, we break down the Phillies’ six-game winning streak, their improved approach at the plate, and whether this style can carry them through the playoffs. Then, we take the show on the road to the Trenton Thunder dugout for a conversation with manager and former MLB All-Star Shawn Chacón. He discusses developing young players, balancing winning with opportunity, managing slumps, and teaching athletes to handle frustration, failure, and the mental demands of baseball.Plus, they discuss Deshaun Watson, college eligibility chaos, and the growing influence of private equity and debt in professional sports.

This week we welcome two sets of guests using sports to strengthen their communities. Professional basketball player and JAB founder Jared Armstrong joins James Beard Award-winning chef Michael Solomonov to discuss the million-dollar JAB Classic, their limited-edition Federal Donuts collaboration, and a shared mission to combat hate by bringing people together through basketball, food, and honest conversation.Then, Lehigh Valley Phantoms head coach John Snowden reflects on his unconventional journey from undrafted player to AHL head coach. Snowden explains how the Phantoms develop future Flyers, balance accountability with the freedom to make mistakes, guide players through difficult setbacks, and prepare a promising young roster for the season ahead.

This week on The Heart of Sports, we examine whether the Phillies’ trade-deadline moves truly make them a World Series contender—or leave too many questions in the rotation, bullpen, lineup, and defense. We also break down the latest congressional effort to reshape college sports, including revenue sharing, transfer restrictions, conference expansion, and the continuing complications of NIL.Plus, the changing value of NFL running backs, football’s concussion crisis, the Yankees’ prediction-market partnership, the welcome return of Ted Lasso, and one fan’s surprisingly difficult quest to buy a Chase Utley jersey. The show closes with a celebration of Phillies Alumni Weekend and a heartfelt case for honoring Bill Giles.

The Phillies are spiraling, the trade deadline is approaching and Jason and Jeff wonder whether Dave Dombrowski can actually fix a roster with too many holes and too few prospects. They also debate Bryce Harper’s public frustration and whether the Phillies’ championship window has already closed.Then, the Sixers pull everyone back in. Jason and Jeff break down a star-studded lineup featuring LeBron James, Joel Embiid, Tyrese Maxey and Jaylen Brown, the challenge of making all the pieces fit and why moving on from Daryl Morey may have been the franchise’s most important decision.Plus, college sports remains stuck without federal reform, private equity moves closer to campus, Michigan confronts an accountability crisis and the WNBA somehow promotes the very kind of player gambling its rules prohibit.

Join us this week as we delve into the latest in sports, including World Cup highlights with the Final this weekend, baseball insights with Jeff's experience at the HR Derby and the Futures Game, and the state of Michigan athletics, all from Vancouver and beyond as Jeff travels for work.

This week on The Heart of Sports, we welcome MLB Pipeline senior writer Jonathan Mayo for an inside look at the MLB Futures Game, baseball's top prospects, and what fans should watch as tomorrow's stars take center stage. Jonathan shares his thoughts on Phillies prospects Gage Wood and Wen-Hui Pan, Andrew Painter and Aidan Miller, the evolving MLB Draft, and what separates future superstars from everyone else. Jason and Jeff also break down All-Star Weekend in Philadelphia, debate Zach Wheeler's surprising All-Star omission, discuss the Flyers' aggressive pursuit of Leo Carlsson, and react to another frustrating result for the U.S. Men's National Team.

The World Cup delivers unforgettable moments as Jeff shares what he calls the most joyous sporting event he's ever attended. Jason and Jeff break down Team USA's run, debate VAR controversies, discuss the Phillies' surprising climb back into contention, and react to the blockbuster Jalen Brown trade that could reshape the Sixers and the Eastern Conference.

On this week's the Heart of Sports, Jason and Jeff discuss the electric atmosphere surrounding the FIFA Club World Cup, the soaring cost of attending major sporting events, and what fans can expect as the tournament heads into the knockout rounds. Then, former Phillies outfielder, ESPN analyst, and author Doug Glanville joins the show for an in-depth conversation about the Phillies' playoff outlook, Andrew Painter's development, Brandon Marsh's breakout season, Bryce Harper's leadership, MLB's new challenge system, and why baseball is about more than just wins and losses. The show wraps up with a look at the Phillies' first half, the latest college basketball coaching shakeups, and how the transfer portal continues to reshape the sport.

On this week’s Heart of Sports, Jason Springer and Jeff Cohen dive into the excitement surrounding the FIFA Club World Cup, from electric fan atmospheres and host-country success stories to concerns about ticket prices, transportation, and the growing commercialization of the sport. They also tackle the ongoing debate over artificial turf versus grass fields, discuss the controversy surrounding quarterback Brendan Sorsby and sports gambling, break down the Phillies’ pitching struggles and trade possibilities, and reflect on the importance of inclusion and respect in sports. Plus, a special Father’s Day message to sports fans everywhere.

This week's Heart of Sports with Jason Springer and Jeff Cohen focused heavily on the upcoming FIFA World Cup and the growing excitement surrounding soccer in the United States. We welcomed legendary soccer broadcaster JP Dellacamera, who discussed calling another World Cup, the evolution of America into a true soccer nation, and the unique atmosphere fans can expect as the tournament kicks off across North America.Dellacamera shared insights into his World Cup preparation process, the challenges of researching dozens of teams and players, and his expectations for the U.S. Men's National Team. He emphasized the importance of the Americans' opening match against Paragua. He also identified France and Spain as his favorites to win the tournament, while naming Morocco as a potential dark horse.The conversation also explored Philadelphia's role as a World Cup host city, with Dellacamera praising the city's soccer history, passionate fan base, and organizational efforts to prepare for the global event. He predicted that Philadelphia would deliver one of the tournament's most memorable atmospheres.Following the interview, we discussed World Cup logistics, including ticket prices, transportation concerns, and the challenges fans may face attending matches. We discussed whether the U.S. team's relatively low profile heading into the tournament could actually help build excitement if the team performs well.The show then shifted to college sports, where we strongly criticized Texas Tech's handling of quarterback Brendan Sorsby's gambling-related suspension and the legal battle allowing him to continue playing. We questioned the ethics of the situation, the role of NIL money, and the broader implications for college athletics and gambling enforcement.To close the program, we examined the Philadelphia Phillies' season, discussing injuries, trade additions, playoff outlook, and surprising performances from players such as Brandon Marsh.

In this entertaining and insightful episode of The Heart of Sports, Jason Springer and Jeff Cohen kick things off with a spirited discussion about the Stanley Cup Playoffs before welcoming legendary broadcaster Kenny Mayne. Mayne shares the story behind his surprising new venture into the greeting card business through LovePop, explaining how his signature humor and straightforward storytelling inspired a collection of cards that say what everyone is thinking—but rarely says aloud. He reflects on authenticity, his ESPN career, sports media, golf, and the enduring value of personal connection in a digital world.The show then shifts to the mental side of sports with former PGA Tour winner Richard Zokol, author of Zocology: Change Your Perspective, Not Your Swing. Zokol discusses the psychological challenges of professional golf, overcoming anxiety and self-doubt, and developing a performance mindset focused on process rather than outcomes. Through personal stories from the PGA Tour and lessons learned over decades of competition, he offers practical insights that apply not only to golf but to life, leadership, and personal growth.

The Trenton Thunder open their season June 2, and manager Shawn Chacón is back for another year bringing experience, honesty, and passion to one of baseball’s best developmental environments. Chacón joined us to talk about what he’s learned entering year two as a manager, why coaching today’s players is more about trust and shared experience than lectures, and how the MLB Draft League prepares players for the grind of professional baseball. From handling failure and embracing adversity to adapting to ABS replay technology and the changing game, Chacón gave incredible insight into what it really takes to chase a baseball dream. He also shared unforgettable stories from his own minor league days — including 100-degree afternoons eating hot soup in rookie ball and overnight bus rides through the minors.

We start the show talking Phillies and close the snow talking NHL and NBA Playoffs. But in between we are joined by Award-winning baseball writer and bestselling author Tim Brown joins the show to discuss Nolan: The Singular Life of an American Original, his definitive new biography of Hall of Fame pitcher Nolan Ryan. Brown dives into Ryan’s unmatched longevity, legendary toughness, seven no-hitters, and why modern baseball may never produce another pitcher like him again. The conversation explores Ryan’s deep connection to Texas, the famous Robin Ventura fight, today’s pitch-count era, and the humanity behind one of baseball’s most intimidating figures. It’s a fascinating look at greatness, work ethic, aging, and how Nolan Ryan became both a baseball icon and an American myth.

Talking all things sports on today's show including the lead up to the World Cup and Fifa, college and professional basketball, NHL, and Phillies and also a little on the rise of influence of private equity in youth sports.

We started talking NBA Playoffs with the Sixers headed to game 3 against the Knicks down 2-0. Then we talked NHL Playoffs and the Flyers down 3-0 before being joined by author Mark Stein to talk his book A League of His Own: A.G. Spalding and the Business of Baseball. We closed the show talking Phillies and more.

This week we break down a wild stretch: the Flyers eliminate the Penguins in a playoff thriller, the Phillies sweep a doubleheader with walk-offs, and the Sixers force a Game 7 vs. Boston.Then, author Luke Epplin joins the show to discuss Moses and the Doctor and how Dr. J and Moses Malone shaped modern basketball.Big wins, big debates, and a look at Philly’s past and present—don’t miss it.

We start the show talking the exciting Flyers' playoff performance and team development. Then we talk the Phillies' struggles on the field and larger management issues that have led to the product on the field. The wen talk the expansion of legalized sports betting and its impact with Author Danny Funt including the risks of gambling addiction and sports integrity and Media influence and ethical concerns in sports betting

This episode features in-depth discussions on the Philadelphia sports teams' recent successes, the legendary history of the Yankees under George Steinbrenner, and valuable lessons from baseball and softball for life and youth development. Guests include sports journalist Ken Davidoff and author Mike Viccaro, offering insights into sports culture, leadership, and personal growth.

With Michigan winning the National title, Jeff being there to see it, and '89 National Champ Terry Mills joining the show, we had lots of final Four talk. We managed to find time to talk some Flyers, Sixers, Masters and a little Phillies too.

We start the show talking the 3-3 start for the Phillies with some highlights and some not so high, then talk Flyers with the shot in the arm of Tyson Forrester returning and Porter Martone coming from college. We touch on the Sixers before hitting the Final Four as Jeff gets ready to travel to Indy for the games. That and more.

Jeff was at the Phillies home opener and Flyers games yesterday, so we talked both extensively before also talking some March Madness and Sweet 16 as well.

The World Baseball Classic is over and we recap it. The Phillies are ready to start the season next week and we preview it. March Madness is underway with some upsets already and lots of storylines. We talk some Sixers and more.

Bringing you a best of this week. First revisiting our conversation with Dr. Myron Rolle, a former NFL player turned physician and advocate for athlete health and safety. Discover how his journey from the football field to medicine has shaped his passion for ensuring the well-being of athletes. Dr. Rolle shares insights on the importance of sports safety, the role of mental health, and how we can protect young athletes while promoting a culture of safety in sports. Then Phillies International Scouting Senior Advisor Sal Agostinelli talks scouting challenges, rewards of providing opportunities, players to watch and more.

We start the show talking the road to March Madness, touch on World Baseball Classic and Spring Training, Sixers and more.

In this episode, Jason Springer and Jeff Cohen discuss a variety of sports topics, including Olympic withdrawal and highlights from the recent games, the intersection of politics and sports, and the dynamics between women's and men's hockey teams. They also delve into the sky high pricing of the upcoming World Cup and additionally, they touch on baseball and spring training insights, coaching changes in college football, and Tyrese Maxey's record-breaking performance.

This week we discuss the latest in sports, focusing on the Olympics, ticket prices, women's sports, and the emotional experiences of athletes. Then we talk a little gambling and sports, the trend of tanking in the NBA, and the challenges faced by coaches and players. The conversation also touches on MLB offseason moves, the start of the MLS season, and the significance of youth signings in baseball.

In this episode, Jason Springer and Jeff Cohen discuss the current state of Philly sports, focusing on the Sixers' struggles and the evolving nature of the All-Star game. Then we delve into the implications of betting in sports, the challenges of player discipline in college basketball, and innovations like LED floors in arenas. Finally we are joined by Phillies International Scouting Senior Advisor Sal agostinelli to talk scouting challenges, rewards of providing opportunities, players to watch and more.

In this episode, hosts Jason Springer and Jeff Cohen discuss various topics surrounding the NFL, including the Seahawks' strategic decisions to get to the big game, the upcoming Super Bowl, NFL coaching changes, and the impact of gambling on sports. They also delve into the struggles of the Philadelphia Eagles and Sixers, the state of college basketball, and controversies surrounding the Olympics.

We discuss a variety of topics including the upcoming Winter Olympics, the relevance of All-Star games, recent NFL coaching changes, and the dynamics within the Eagles organization. They also delve into the controversies surrounding the Hall of Fame, the current state of the Flyers, and the trust issues with the Sixers. The conversation wraps up with thoughts on the Phillies' offseason moves and excitement for the Winter Olympics.

We start the show featuring an inspiring conversation with Dr. Myron Rolle, a former NFL player turned physician and advocate for athlete health and safety. Discover how his journey from the football field to medicine has shaped his passion for ensuring the well-being of athletes. Dr. Rolle shares insights on the importance of sports safety, the role of mental health, and how we can protect young athletes while promoting a culture of safety in sports. Then in our conversation with Author Monte Burke, he discusses his book 'Men of Troy' which explores the legendary era of USC Trojans football under coach Pete Carroll. The discussion covers the rise of the program, Carroll's unique coaching philosophy, the influence of celebrity culture, the controversies surrounding the team, and the lasting legacy of this period in college football. Burke provides fascinating insights into the dynamics of the team, the challenges they faced, and the impact of scandals on the program's reputation.

In this engaging conversation, Kevin Negandi discusses his recent recognition by the Philadelphia Sports Writers Association, reflecting on his journey in sports journalism and the influence of Philadelphia sports writers on his career. He shares insights into the current state of the Eagles afer their elimination, the challenges they face, and the importance of understanding the fan perspective. The discussion also covers the dynamics of college football with the CFP Title game this weekend, the impact of NIL and the transfer portal. Then we talk some personal anecdotes about family and coaching experiences including playing baseball with his kids at Field if Dreams and coaching at Cooperstown. Finally, Negandi highlights his involvement in the Dick Vitale Gala, emphasizing the significance of giving back to the community. Then we talk the Kyle Tucker deal and what it means for baseball and more.

In this episode of the Heart of Sports, hosts Jason Springer and Jeff Cohen discuss the latest in college sports, focusing on the impact of coaching changes, the evolution of college football with NIL, and the dynamics of team relationships. They also feature an insightful interview with Michigan basketball legend Terry Mills, who shares his experiences and thoughts on the current state of college basketball and the importance of teamwork. The conversation highlights the challenges and changes in college sports, emphasizing the need for a balance between individual recognition and team success.

Back with a new show next week but bringing you a few of our favorite interviews. First we delved into the complexities of the LeBron James era with the Los Angeles Lakers with Author Yaron Weitzman, discussing the dynamics of team management, the impact of key figures like Magic Johnson and Rob Pelinka, and the challenges faced by players such as Russell Westbrook. We also reflected on the broader implications for the NBA providing insights into organizational behavior and the intersection of sports and narrative control. And of course, we asked him for his take on the Sixers having written the original book on the process. Then author Ken Belson discusses his book 'Every Day is Sunday,' which explores how three key figures—Jerry Jones, Robert Kraft, and Roger Goodell—transformed the NFL from a sports league into a global empire. The discussion covers the business strategies, media partnerships, cultural impact, and ongoing challenges faced by the league, including player safety and the future of football.

Last Heart of Sports for 2025 and we talk some College football playoffs, player movement, NFL and Eagles talk before giving the Flyers some love for what they seem to be building.

We start the show with Sixers Inquirer Reporter Keith Pompey joining us from New York before tonight's game against the Knicks at the Garden. Then we closed the show with our annual Festivus airing of sports grievances.

We start the show taking a deep dive into the very concerning situation at Michigan before talking some CFP and bowl opt outs. Then we get into the Eagles struggles before talking Kyle Schwarber re-signing and the crazy Fifa prices.

The College coaching carousel spins on as we head to the College Football Playoff. We talk it all and then talk some Eagles and NFL, Sixers and Flyers too.

Coming out of our Turkey Coma we talk all things sports from NFL to College Football, Sixers and much more!

A special show this week as Jeff joins us live from sleeping out on the field at Citizens Bank Park to support Covenant House and to raise awareness and funds to combat homelessness. Then after we talk the sleep out, we get to the sports news of the week.

In a heartfelt discussion, former Phillies player Larry Bowa joins us to dive into the impactful initiative at Citizens Bank Park to support Covenant House, an organization dedicated to helping homeless youth. As we prepare for the upcoming Sleep Out event, we share personal experiences and the importance of community involvement in addressing homelessness.We talk the Significance of the Sleep Out Event, First-Hand Experiences and Challenges, The Role of Covenant House, The Phillies Community Involvement and Support. In addition to the philanthropic efforts, we also touch on the upcoming baseball season and the importance of integrating young talent into the team. Larry emphasizes the energy that younger players bring, stating, "You'd be shocked at how much energy they bring to the clubhouse," reinforcing the idea that a perfect mix of youth and experience can lead to success both on and off the field.

From the action on the field taking the Owls to the bring of bowl eligibility to the type of players he recruits off, we talk it all with Temple Football Coach KC Keeler. Then we have part 2 of our interview with Author/Writer Sam Carchidi talking Flyers and his book "Bullies".

First we talk with writer and author Yaron Weitzman about his new book A Hollywood Ending: The Dreams and Drama of the LeBron Lakers. With him we delve into the complexities of the LeBron James era with the Los Angeles Lakers, discussing the dynamics of team management, the impact of key figures like Magic Johnson and Rob Pelinka, and the challenges faced by players such as Russell Westbrook. We also reflected on the broader implications for the NBA providing insights into organizational behavior and the intersection of sports and narrative control. Then of course we asked his take on the Sixers. Then in part 1 of our conversation with Sam Carchidi talking about his new book "Bullies", we discuss the legacy of the Philadelphia Flyers, particularly focusing on the Broad Street Bullies era. They explore the cultural impact of the team on Philadelphia and the NHL, the origins of the team's nickname.

We started the show talking about the NBA gambling bombshell before being joined for a conversation with Ken Belson discusses his book 'Every Day is Sunday,' which explores how three key figures—Jerry Jones, Robert Kraft, and Roger Goodell—transformed the NFL from a sports league into a global empire. The discussion covers the business strategies, media partnerships, cultural impact, and ongoing challenges faced by the league, including player safety and the future of football. Then as the MLS Playoffs get underway, the radio voice of the Philadelphia Union Dave Leno discusses the team's journey into the MLS playoffs, their achievements, and the dynamics that have contributed to their success this season. He highlights the significance of the Supporter Shield, the depth and resilience of the team, the crucial role of goalkeeper Andre Blake, and the tactical matchup against the Chicago Fire. Additionally, Leno reflects on the impact of Lionel Messi on the league and the future of MLS.

Lots of fun on this week's show with Inquirer Sixers Writer Keith Pompey talking everything from the Sixers health and pieces as they start the season to the NBA and even the media game up in Boston. Then Jeff and Jason talk Dave Dombrowski's comments about Bryce Harper and the Phillies. That and more.

It was a rough night in Philly sports on Thursday. After the Phillies got eliminated by the Dodgers last night, we break down the series, what went wrong, where the team stands and what happens next. Who stays, who goes and more. Then we get into the Eagles getting beat up and the larger struggles the team is having. That and more.

Back next week with a new show but this week revisiting our interview from early September with Doug Glanville and then talking the event behind the sport with Don Costante.

We open the show talking some NFL and the Eagles big come from behind win against the Rams last week. Then we talk some baseball as the Phillies start their final regular season series this weekend before the playoffs before. Then we talked some Sixers, Ryder Cup and more.