Building a Champion

In this episode of Building a Champion, we head to Carmel, Indiana — home to one of the most dominant high school athletic programs in the country. With 31 state championships in six seasons, national rankings, and a reputation for excellence across 29 varsity sports, Carmel has built a true dynasty.Athletic Director Jim Inskeep joins the show to break down what really drives sustained success — and it’s not just talent. From high expectations and consistent leadership to deep community support and elite youth development systems, Carmel’s formula is rooted in culture.We explore how long-term vision, coach consistency, and a commitment to developing young people — not just winning titles — have created a program that continues to raise the bar year after year.If you’re looking to build a program that lasts, this episode is packed with insight.⏱ Chapter Markers00:00 – The foundation: High expectations & consistency 01:00 – Carmel’s national dominance and program overview 02:28 – Building excellence across all sports (not just one) 03:12 – The history behind Carmel’s sustained success 04:38 – Leadership consistency and long-term vision 05:37 – Youth development and the Carmel Dads Club model 07:28 – Building from the ground up: feeder systems that work 08:26 – Why consistency in coaching matters at every level 09:33 – Competing in Indiana’s one-class individual sports system 10:43 – Facilities, resources, and community investment 12:07 – Creating systems that keep athletes engaged long-term 14:57 – “Swim City USA” and elite program development 16:22 – The formula: expectations, experience, and leadership 17:45 – Coaching consistency and setting the tone 20:06 – What separates Carmel from other top programs 23:13 – Building trust with parents and the community 25:06 – Growing up in athletics and leadership influence 27:44 – The role of athletes in sustaining culture 30:49 – Preventing complacency and motivating coaches 32:42 – Managing pressure as a top-ranked program 36:09 – Winning vs. developing people 38:05 – What’s next for Carmel athletics 40:20 – Long-term vision and legacy 41:47 – Game Time Decisions (rapid fire)

In this episode of Building a Champion, we head to Fayetteville, Texas (population 252) where Head Coach Jake Diggs and the Fayetteville Lions did something no team in high school basketball history has ever done — they hit 40 three-pointers in a single game, breaking the national record in a 120–25 win.But this story isn’t just about shooting. It’s about culture.Coach Diggs shares how his program is built around AAE — Accountability, Attitude, and Effort — and how relentless positivity, player buy-in, and small-town unity have transformed a 1A basketball program into a consistent postseason contender. From chasing records to chasing state titles, this conversation highlights what happens when a team commits fully to togetherness and work ethic.This episode is a reminder that big dreams don’t require big enrollment numbers — just belief, culture, and commitment.⏱ Chapter Markers00:00 – The culture code: AAE (Accountability, Attitude, Effort) 01:20 – 40 three-pointers: When the record became realistic 02:16 – The decision to chase a national record 03:02 – Race & Space offense explained 03:32 – 98 three-point attempts and total team buy-in 04:22 – Building a winning mindset in a 1A school 05:17 – Changing the culture at a baseball-first school 07:36 – Small-town sports and community pride 08:03 – Getting every player involved in the record night 08:58 – Sustained success beyond one historic game 09:32 – Identity of Fayetteville basketball 10:57 – Adjusting when shots aren’t falling 11:38 – What Coach hopes players remember most 12:36 – Game Time Decisions (rapid fire) 14:21 – Playoff push and chasing a state title

In this episode of Building a Champion, we head to Corvallis, Montana, home of one of the most consistent small-school track dynasties in the country. Longtime head coach Spencer Huls joins us to unpack how the Corvallis Blue Devils captured their third straight Class A boys state championship—this time by a single point—and how the program has now earned 18 combined boys and girls state titles.Coach Huls walks through the dramatic 3200m that decided it all, the selfless move from a runner who sacrificed his own race to pull teammates back into scoring position, and why their titles are built on accountability, loyalty, and a program-first mentality. He shares how a community-funded track facility transformed the culture, why they treat an individual sport like a true team, and the bus-ride tradition of predicting next year’s state meet points before the celebration is even over.This is a blueprint in consistency, standards, and small-town pride for any coach or AD trying to build sustained success.⏱️ Chapter Markers00:00 – The selfless move that saved a state title 01:00 – Welcome & Coach Spencer Holes’ incredible resume 01:45 – Three straight championships decided by a combined 3.7 points 03:10 – Inside the 3200m: chasing 7 points to secure the win 04:55 – Crowd energy, athletes stepping up, and the one-point margin 07:40 – Community-built facilities & why Corvallis rallies around track 09:37 – 18 combined titles & building one unified boys/girls program 12:30 – The bus-ride tradition: predicting next year’s state meet points 16:40 – Learning from heartbreak & the balance of celebrating vs. what’s next 18:00 – Standards, consequences, and holding even stars accountable 23:50 – Five generations, loyalty to Corvallis & why this place is “part of me” 31:50 – What’s next: realistic goals & keeping track “important” 35:00 – Game Time Decisions: favorite moments, Montana pride & next year’s prediction

In this episode of Building a Champion, we visit Cherry Creek High School, home of the 2024–25 MaxPreps Cup national champions — recognized as the top high school athletic program in America.Athletic Director Jason joins us to share how the Bruins captured nine state titles, achieved multiple national rankings, and built a model culture of excellence grounded in tradition, accountability, and community pride.From third- and fourth-generation Creekers to a new athletics-only facility breaking ground soon, this episode dives deep into what makes Cherry Creek’s success so sustainable — and why it’s about much more than trophies.🎧 Listen now to learn how intentional leadership and strong community ties build champions year after year.⏱️ Chapter Markers00:00 – Generations of Creekers & community pride 01:00 – Being named the nation’s top athletic program 04:30 – Balancing expectations and handling the spotlight 07:15 – Nine state titles and unforgettable championship moments 10:20 – Youth programs, feeder schools, and community engagement 13:00 – Legacy families and multi-generational pride 16:30 – The “secret sauce” behind Cherry Creek’s culture 18:30 – What’s next: a full campus rebuild and new athletic facility 23:25 – Game Time Decisions: rapid-fire questions with AD Jason🎯 Show Notes HighlightsNine state championships in one school year — including football, soccer, baseball, lacrosse, tennis, and golfFirst Colorado school ever to win the MaxPreps Cup for the nation’s top athletic programHow Cherry Creek maintains a culture of high expectations and humility under constant spotlightThe power of youth programs and community engagement in building long-term successLegacy families: third- and fourth-generation Creekers keeping tradition aliveThe importance of leadership that values both preparation and presenceA sneak peek at Cherry Creek’s new athletics facility, opening 2028Why Jason believes leadership starts with making someone else’s day better

Hoover doesn’t just talk about standards—they live them. In this episode of Building a Champion, Jordan and Brian sit down with Hoover High School Athletic Director Dr. Harley Lamey to unpack a historic year in Alabama high school basketball. The boys finished a perfect 35–0 to claim a third straight 7A state title, while the girls secured their fifth consecutive championship (11th since 2001). Dr. Lamey shares the mindset behind Hoover’s mantra—“Best is the standard”—and how the program develops unselfish stars, calm under pressure, and senior-led accountability. You’ll hear how the boys handled late-game drama in the title win over Florence, how the girls answered a second-quarter surge from Hillcrest to control the second half, and why community support and tough national schedules matter. Plus: culture, leadership, and why holding athletes accountable is a form of love.Chapter Markers00:00 Expectations & “Best Is the Standard”01:08 Why Hoover Basketball Is a Dynasty02:38 Boys’ 35–0 Season & Title Game Poise10:50 Girls’ Five-Peat & Senior Leadership14:08 Other Programs Making Noise (XC, Track, Volleyball, Softball, etc.)20:52 Community, Pressure, and Pride22:36 What’s Next: Chasing National-Level Excellence24:44 Scheduling the Best (IMG, Alaska trips, national tourneys)24:44 Game Time Decisions (Rapid Fire)31:12 Closing & Culture TakeawaysShow Notes HighlightsBoys: 35–0, first undefeated 7A season; third straight titleGirls: Fifth straight state championship; 11th since 2001Culture: “Champions in all we do,” senior-led standards, unselfish starsCommunity: Packed arenas, “Boneyard” student section, program-wide prideBroader success: XC near-miss, track dominance, volleyball back-to-back Final Fours, softball, baseball, eSports titlesCoaching: Accountability as love; building players and people

In this episode of Building a Champion, we sit down with Anthony Azama, Athletic Director at Washington University in St. Louis (WashU), to reflect on one of the greatest years in Bears athletics history.From an undefeated NCAA Division III women’s soccer national championship to the first-ever women’s tennis national title, WashU added to its tradition of excellence with a total of 27 all-time national championships. Anthony shares how WashU sustains success through “competitive cooperation,” a culture where programs push each other while working together, and why alignment, relationships, and holistic student-athlete development are at the core of their approach.We explore the role of academics, character, and culture in building lasting success — and how WashU’s values-driven model is preparing athletes for much more than wins on the scoreboard.🎧 Listen in to hear how WashU is building champions in competition, the classroom, and life.

In this episode of Building a Champion, we sit down with Matt Hill, Athletic Director at the University of Northwestern–St. Paul, to explore how faith, integrity, and character are shaping one of NCAA Division III’s most respected athletic programs.Matt shares how Northwestern is excelling across multiple sports — from a national champion in women’s track & field to Final Four volleyball runs — while staying true to their Christ-centered mission. We cover powerful stories of sportsmanship (including the “honor call” that cost a national title but won a sportsmanship award), strategic program growth, and how “Compete With Purpose” has become the guiding philosophy for coaches and athletes alike.Whether you’re a coach, athletic director, or student-athlete, you’ll find inspiring insights on building teams that win the right way — on and off the scoreboard.🎧 Listen now to hear how Northwestern Athletics is developing champions through Christ-first leadership, strong relationships, and relentless pursuit of excellence.

On this episode of Building a Champion, we head to Northwest Iowa to talk with Darin Keizer, Athletic Director at Dordt University — one of the NAIA’s most mission-driven and dominant athletic programs.Darin shares how Dordt Athletics has delivered back-to-back NAIA national championships in women’s basketball, a top-5 football ranking, and standout performances in track and cross country — all while staying rooted in a Christ-centered mission. 🎓🏆You’ll hear how Dordt’s commitment to servant leadership, culture-first coaching, and deep community connections are creating consistent success across all sports. From building “the Defender Way” to mentoring over 700 student-athletes, this episode is a masterclass in purpose-driven athletics.🎧 Listen in and get inspired by how values and victory can go hand-in-hand.

🎙 Building a Champion - Episode: Inside Grand Valley State’s Championship Culture with Carrie BeckerIn this episode of Building a Champion, we sit down with Grand Valley State University Athletic Director Carrie Becker, the bold leader behind one of the most dominant programs in NCAA Division II. Since 2002, GVSU has captured over 30 national championships — and they show no signs of slowing down.Carrie shares behind-the-scenes stories from this year’s historic run, including national titles in women’s basketball and track & field, the resilience her athletes showed overcoming illness and adversity, and how a culture of "team-mateship" fuels sustained success. We dive into how GVSU recruits, develops, and supports student-athletes not just for championships, but for life beyond competition.Whether you're an athletic director, coach, athlete, or simply love great sports stories — this episode is packed with leadership insights, culture-building wisdom, and inspiring moments.🎧 Tune in now and discover what it takes to build champions — on and off the field.

Waverly-Shell Rock: Building a Culture of WinningThis episode of Building a Champion explores the athletic powerhouse of Waverly-Shell Rock, Iowa. Athletic Director Greg Bodensteiner shares the secrets behind their consistent success across multiple sports, especially their dominant wrestling program. Discover the community support, coaching excellence, and innovative programs that cultivate a deep-rooted culture of winning for the GoHawks.

Minnesota State Mankato made history, winning both men's & women's DII basketball national championships. Athletic Director Kevin Buisman discusses the dramatic wins, the "MavFam" culture, and recruiting strategies that led to their success. He highlights the importance of developing champions in sports, academics, and life.

Coach Kyle Rutledge joins Building a Champion to discuss Pittsburgh State's historic double victory at the NCAA DII outdoor track and field national championships. He dives into the winning culture, recruiting strategies, and mental preparation that fueled their remarkable success.

Join us as we journey to small-town Iowa to uncover the secrets behind the Remsen St. Mary's Hawks' incredible athletic success. Athletic Director Jared Schutt joins us to discuss their recent third state football championship in five years, and the sustained excellence across all their sports.We delve into the unique community culture, the importance of consistent messaging, and the dedication of coaches and athletes that have built this powerhouse program. Jared shares his insights on developing student-athletes both on and off the field, emphasizing the value of process, preparation, and enjoying the journey.Listen now to discover how Remsen St. Mary's cultivates a winning culture in the heart of small-town Iowa.

In this episode, we sit down with Steve Brocklebank, Athletic Director at Ferris State University, to discuss their football team's recent NCAA Division II National Championship victory.We delve into the keys to their success, exploring the team's resilience, the importance of a strong team culture, and the role of community support in their continued dominance. Steve shares valuable insights on building a winning program, fostering a positive student-athlete experience, and the importance of leadership and collaboration within the athletic department.Listen now to hear the inside story of Ferris State's championship run and gain valuable insights from Athletic Director Steve Brocklebank.

Join us for a conversation with Mike Snyder, Director of Athletics & Recreation at Pacific Lutheran University, a renowned institution with an impressive record of 286 conference championships and 11 national titles.Mike shares his insights on building a successful athletic program, fostering a positive student-athlete experience, and the importance of community engagement in achieving sustained excellence.Listen now to learn from a seasoned leader in collegiate athletics.

Northeast Community College made history by capturing their first-ever NJCAA Division II men's soccer championship. In this episode of Building a Champion, we chat with Athletic Director Jerrett Mills about the team's incredible journey, including their resilience, strong team culture, and the crucial role of community support. We also explore how Northeast fosters a winning environment that extends beyond the field.

Southeast Polk High School has achieved an unprecedented feat: four consecutive state football championships. In this episode of Building a Champion, we speak with Athletic Director Jason Campbell to uncover the secrets behind this remarkable dynasty. We delve into the team's resilience, the impact of exceptional coaching, and the importance of developing well-rounded athletes. Discover how Southeast Polk fosters a winning culture that extends beyond the gridiron and prepares young men for success in all aspects of life.

In this episode of Building a Champion, we sit down with Aleesha Rabedeaux, Director of Athletics at William Penn University. We delve into the inspiring journey of their men's soccer team, who reached the NAIA National Championship Final. We explore the team's strong leadership, resilience, and the crucial role of departmental support in their success. Alicia shares insights on cultivating a winning culture across all athletic programs, emphasizing the importance of student-athlete development, community engagement, and recruiting strategies. This episode offers valuable lessons for aspiring athletes and athletic directors alike.

In this episode, Athletic Director Tony Hoops shares the secrets behind the incredible athletic success at Northwestern College. Discover how the school's volleyball, football, and other programs have sustained excellence, from coaching longevity to developing mental toughness and a culture of champions. Hoops provides a blueprint for building successful collegiate athletic programs by recruiting the right student-athletes, retaining top talent, and instilling values that transcend the playing field. Whether you're a coach, administrator, or sports enthusiast, this episode offers inspiration and practical strategies for developing champion-caliber teams.

Join us for an inspiring episode of the "Building a Champion" podcast as we sit down with Bill Magnuson, the Activities Director and Head Football Coach from Pequot Lakes High School. Coach Magnuson shares the keys to his team's success, including the pivotal role of senior leadership, overcoming past challenges, and cultivating a winning culture. Discover how Pequot Lakes has become a powerhouse, with multiple teams competing at the state level across various sports. Coach Magnuson provides valuable advice for aspiring coaches and athletic directors looking to build their own championship legacy. This episode is a must-listen for anyone passionate about high school sports and the strategies behind building a champion.

In this episode of Building a Champion, we sit down with Dr. Paul Plinske, Athletic Director at CSU Pueblo, to explore the remarkable success of the ThunderWolves' men's soccer team. Dr. Plinske shares insights into the team's journey to the top and highlights the broader athletic excellence at CSU Pueblo, with several teams celebrating standout seasons. Tune in for an inspiring look at the strategies, culture, and leadership driving this collegiate powerhouse.

In this inspiring episode of "Building a Champion," we sit down with Jeffrey Morgan, the dynamic Athletic Director of Harding University. Under his leadership, the Harding football team clinched their first-ever national championship in 2023, and now they're charging through another triumphant season. Join us as we delve into the strategies and team spirit that make a champion, straight from the man orchestrating Harding's athletic successes. Tune in to discover the drive and dedication behind the Bisons' winning streak.

In this inspiring episode of "Building a Champion," we sit down with Bradley Sowder, the esteemed head coach of track and cross country at the University of the Cumberlands. Dive into the strategies and stories behind their phenomenal season, and discover what it takes to cultivate a team of champions. Join us as we explore the dedication, hard work, and spirit that propelled the team to victory. Don't miss this behind-the-scenes look at athletic excellence—tune in now!

Welcome to the inaugural episode of "Building a Champion," where we delve into the stories behind athletic excellence. In this episode, we sit down with Jacque Tevis-Butler, the esteemed head women's soccer coach at Millard West High School. With a legacy of triumph, Coach Tevis-Butler shares the journey to their first state championship and the subsequent victories that followed, culminating in a total of five state titles. Through insightful conversation, we explore the strategies, philosophies, and inspirations that have propelled the team to the pinnacle of high school soccer. Join us as we uncover the pillars of success that make a champion.