Finding 44

Larra reunites with Sam and Krissi to reflect on their connection through Andrew and the growth of Project 44, founded after Andrew’s 2016 passing to save lives through bone marrow transplants. Sam shares how grief shaped her life, including years in Indianapolis, moving to Texas, having two sons, and owning a CrossFit gym, while continuing to honor Andrew, including naming a son with Andrew as a middle name.  They discuss feeling close to Andrew at Hinkle Fieldhouse, through stories from others, and whenever Project 44 receives a donor match notification. Sam and Krissi describe Butler’s lasting support, Project 44’s national media exposure, and a “10 Years of Impact Drive to Save” campaign tied to multiple basketball tournaments in Indianapolis, aiming for a major collegiate registry event via in-person activations, merch, workplace drives, and a mail-in swab option. 00:00 Reunion And Origins 01:29 After Andrew Passed 03:01 Life Rebuilt In Texas 05:29 Feeling Andrew Close 07:02 Matches And Ripple Effects 09:00 Stories Of Kindness 11:24 Butler Way Support 16:18 Final Four Full Circle 18:49 10 Years Impact Campaign 22:17 Pride And Next Decade 22:38 Media Spotlight Momentum 23:22 Cultural Shift Mission 24:01 Partnerships And Privacy 26:21 Indy Classic Stories 27:32 Championship Weekend Activations 29:36 Merch Reveal And Giveaways 32:30 How To Join The Registry 34:49 Next Decade Vision 37:05 Normalizing Donation Process 38:20 Spirit Animal Octopus 40:58 Gratitude And Sign Off Discover More: https://project44.org/

Julie discusses how her lifelong passion for basketball led to an unplanned but enduring career in sports, including 25 years in college athletics, roles at the NCAA, and leadership as Horizon League commissioner before joining Pacers Sports & Entertainment (PSNE) in Indianapolis after being recruited by CEO Mel Raines.  She reflects on growing opportunities for women in sports leadership, Indianapolis’ 2050 vision to become the epicenter of sport and the capital of women’s sports, and the importance of legacy initiatives like the WNBA All-Star–inspired We Are NEXT leadership cohort and the Fever Confidence program for high school girls.  Julie recounts pivotal mentorship moments, Indianapolis’ collaborative hosting of the 2021 March Madness bubble, and PSNE community strategies including Drive and Dish with Gleaners, court resurfacing, youth basketball camps, accessible ticketing, and the new Fever license plate supporting the Fever Fund. 00:00 Welcome and Career Origins 02:59 From College Sports to Pacers 04:30 Women Leading in Indy 07:25 Event Legacy and We Are Next 10:08 Mentors and Pivotal Breaks 13:26 Indy Big Moments and 2050 Vision 18:06 PSNE Community Strategy 20:34 Programs Building Confidence 23:40 Ownership and Being a Fan 26:56 Accessible Tickets and Growing Fans 29:56 Making Causes Stick 34:35 Spirit Animal Elephant 37:00 Whats Next and Closing Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44

In this episode, Michael Kaltenmark, a Butler University graduate, shares the impact of his two-decade career at Butler, including his pivotal role in advancing the live mascot program and the creation of Project 44. He discusses the deeper connections and lifelong relationships he formed at Butler, which spurred his professional growth.  Michael's narrative also includes his personal journey through a kidney transplant, highlighting the profound support from the Butler community. Furthermore, he delves into his significant contributions towards boosting the visibility and engagement of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS).  Throughout, Michael emphasizes the values of teamwork and service rooted in the Butler Way and details ongoing efforts to keep Indianapolis an attractive destination for major sporting events. The episode encapsulates the intertwining of sports, personal challenges, and community spirit. 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 01:57 Michael's Journey at Butler University 04:19 The Birth of the Live Mascot Program 11:16 The Impact of Social Media and Personal Challenges 16:49 Project 44 and the Culture of Yes 25:25 Carrying Forward a Legacy 25:52 The Butler Way: A Philosophy for Life 27:17 Unforeseen Opportunities and Experiences 28:38 Achieving Milestones at IMS 32:54 Maintaining Year-Round Relevance 38:35 Indianapolis: A City of Sports and Community 44:08 The Spirit of the Bulldog 46:25 Celebrating 10 Years of Project 44 Discover More: ⁠https://project44.org/⁠ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/⁠ Facebook: ⁠Project 44⁠

In this inspiring conversation, leukemia survivor William Yank shares his remarkable journey from his initial diagnosis during college to his present-day remission.  He details the challenges and treatments he faced, including CAR T-cell therapy and a stem cell transplant from his sister. William credits his optimism and resilience to his strong support system and acceptance of reality, supported by therapy.  Reflecting on his lowest and highest points, he highlights the role of community and hope in his battle against cancer. William discusses his advocacy work with organizations like the Leukemia Lymphoma Society and his evolving career in public speaking.  Emphasizing the power of hope and action, he expresses his passion for inspiring young adults to find and give hope. William's story underscores the importance of bone marrow and stem cell transplants, highlighting the impact of Project 44. Join William as he continues to share his message of hope and resilience, aiming to create a meaningful impact on others. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:20 William's Leukemia Journey Begins 01:36 Diagnosis and Initial Treatment 03:00 Relapses and Advanced Treatments 03:39 Finding Strength and Support 04:51 Highs and Lows of the Journey 06:56 The Second Relapse 07:54 Stem Cell Transplant Process 14:00 Sharing the Journey on Social Media 16:22 Public Speaking and Advocacy 21:33 Future Goals and Vision 27:20 Commemorating Milestones 28:21 Conclusion and Farewell Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44

May is Mental Health Awareness Month, and Finding 44 was honored to talk with one of the most prominent champions of mental health, Colts owner and vice-chair, Kalen Jackson. This heartfelt and meaningful conversation centers around the journey and impact of the 'Kicking the Stigma' initiative. Kalen shares the significant strides made in mental health awareness, the importance of open conversations, and her personal experiences with anxiety. The discussion highlights the cultural shift in how mental health is perceived, the need for continued efforts, and the initiative's strategic donations and collaborations.  Kalen emphasizes the role of vulnerability and community support in breaking the silence surrounding mental health issues, along with the crucial role of proactive measures in addressing these challenges. Learn more at https://kickingthestigma.org/ 00:00 Introduction and Mission of Kicking the Stigma 02:07 Personal Struggles and Family Experiences 04:44 Impact of COVID-19 on Mental Health Initiatives 08:11 National Campaign and Public Response 11:23 Mental Health in Sports and the NFL 23:29 Achievements and Future Goals 29:56 Community Involvement and Personal Stories 40:59 Conclusion and Call to Action Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44

Linda Reich, co-founder of kNot Today, joins us and talks about her journey from supporting her husband's NFL career to becoming a fierce advocate against child exploitation.  Linda reveals the motivation behind starting kNot Today, driven by personal connections to victims of abuse. She discusses the impactful work they're doing, from prevention programs to innovative solutions like canine detection units. The conversation highlights the silent epidemic of child abuse, stressing the importance of community awareness, support, and collaboration among nonprofit organizations.  Linda also shares her personal approaches to parenting and protecting children, offering resources and guidance available on kNotToday.org. Throughout, Linda's passion and commitment to saving and improving children's lives shine brightly. 00:00 Catching Up with Linda: A Journey Back in Time 01:42 Balancing Careers and Family in the NFL 03:26 The Birth of Not Today: A Mission Against Child Exploitation 03:47 Personal Encounters with Child Exploitation 05:36 From Awareness to Action: Founding Not Today 06:27 Building a Foundation: Early Challenges and Successes 07:03 Prevention and Awareness: The Core of Not Today 09:04 Understanding the Reality of Child Exploitation 10:57 Navigating Difficult Conversations and Barriers 16:14 Innovative Approaches: Canine Detection Initiative 20:15 National Impact and Future Goals 23:51 Personal Reflections and Family Impact 25:03 Accessing Resources and Community Support 27:26 The Power of Teamwork and Collaboration 28:29 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44

Tony Hamilton, a proud Butler University alumnus, shares his incredible journey and connection to Project 44 as a bone marrow donor. Tony reflects on his deep ties to Butler, being part of a 'Butler family,' and recounts the harrowing experience of his wife's battle with lupus and subsequent health challenges soon after their graduation.  This personal history of medical adversity and reliance on the generosity of others inspired Tony to join the bone marrow registry. He details the moving experience of donating marrow to a one-year-old leukemia patient, addressing common misconceptions about the process and underscoring the importance of donations.  Tony's story is not just one of personal growth and commitment but also a testament to the life-changing impact of Project 44. We are so proud to be a part of Tony's story and are honored to share it on the podcast. 00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome 01:09 Tony's Connection to Butler University 01:47 A Personal Medical Journey 04:46 The Impact of Generosity 06:25 Joining Project 44 10:49 The Donation Process 16:46 Post-Donation Reflections 24:33 Concluding Thoughts and Spirit Animal Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44

In this episode, 11-year NBA veteran Scot Pollard opens up about his life-saving heart transplant experience and how he is using his journey to impact others.  Scot discusses the personal challenges he faced during his wife's battle with breast cancer and his own severe heart issues, which led to heart failure and, ultimately, a heart transplant. He shares the emotional ups and downs of his health journey while advocating for organ donation through the Pearls of Life Foundation.  Scot also dispels common myths about organ donation and emphasizes the importance of being honest with healthcare providers. We focus on his transformation from an athlete with a strong competitive spirit to a passionate advocate for change, helping others through awareness and support for organ donation. To learn more about Scot's charity, visit pearlsoflife.org. 00:00 Introduction to Scott Pollard's Journey 01:26 Scott's Wife's Breast Cancer Diagnosis 02:47 Scott's Heart Health Concerns 03:49 The Flu Shot Incident 05:29 Heart Failure and Ablations 08:58 Facing the Reality of a Heart Transplant 11:56 The Transplant Process Begins 15:29 Life After the Transplant 19:37 Advocating for Your Health 20:46 Navigating Medical Advice and Personal Choices 22:24 Coping with Loss and Finding Purpose 24:18 The Role of Anger in Athletic Drive 26:36 Founding Pearls of Life Charity 31:17 Dispelling Myths About Organ Donation 37:02 Meeting the Donor Family 39:55 Reflecting on Legacy and Spirit Animals Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44

In this episode of 'Finding 44,' Krissi and Larra chat with former professional athletes Jim Sorgi and Joey Vandever, who have found a new purpose post-retirement by launching ProTeam Tactical.  ProTeam Tactical aims to provide elite sports performance-level care to first responders. Inspired by their personal experiences and family ties to the first responder community, Jim and Joey discuss the lack of adequate support services available and their journey to address these needs through both physical and mental health care.  They highlight the holistic approach of ProTeam Tactical and the significance of the newly launched ProTeam Foundation, aimed at making these services accessible despite financial constraints.  Jim and Joey touch on their personal transitions from sports to business, the overwhelming response from the first responder community, and the life-saving impact their services have already had. Choosing to show up for others is what Finding 44 is all about, and Jim and Joey are great examples of using their platform to make a difference. 00:00 Introduction to Finding 44 00:19 Meet Jim Sorgi and Joey Vandever 00:42 The Inspiration Behind Pro Team Tactical 01:24 Jim and Joey's Transition from Sports to Business 02:08 Supporting First Responders: The Athletic Model 05:14 The Importance of Mental and Physical Health 15:18 The Foundation and Future Goals 18:02 Personal Stories and Influences 22:57 The Impact and Expansion of Pro Team Tactical 25:16 Challenges and Future of First Responder Support 36:44 How to Get Involved and Final Thoughts Discover More: https://project44.org/ https://www.proteamtactical.com/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44

In this episode of 'Finding 44', Larra and Krissi chat with Megan Connolly, a dynamic personality, former NFL team reporter, and current WWE host. Megan discusses her instant friendship with co-host Larra and their shared passion for running. She recounts her incredible journey, from working with the New England Patriots to her surprising transition to WWE. Megan also shares her remarkable experience of donating a kidney, detailing the process and its emotional impact on her life.  Additionally, she talks about juggling personal and professional aspirations, breaking marathon records post-donation, and her motivation to help others through organ donation. If you are interested in kidney donation, visit Kidney.org 00:00 Introduction  01:31 Megan and Lara's Friendship 03:40 Transition to WWE 05:25 WWE Experience and Challenges 09:20 Imposter Syndrome and Overcoming Doubts 17:51 Kidney Donation Journey 26:03 Understanding the Donor Process 27:07 Approval and Advanced Donation 27:58 The Chain Reaction of Kidney Donations 28:37 Margaret's Journey and Recovery 29:41 Reflections on the Donation Experience 35:21 Running After Donation 38:25 The Power of Community and Support 44:47 Final Thoughts and Future Goals Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44

In this episode of Finding 44, Jordan Cornette, an NBC Sports broadcaster and former athlete, reflects on the various 'seasons' of his life, balancing a demanding sports media career with his roles as a father, husband, and leader of the Joel Cornette Foundation.  Jordan discusses the importance of family and the lasting impact of his late brother Joel, who inspired the foundation's mission to provide educational opportunities and study sudden cardiac arrest. He shares poignant memories of his brother, the foundation's achievements, and the enduring dedication of its supporters.  Additionally, Jordan talks about his journey from sports to broadcasting and the guiding principles instilled by his family that helped him succeed. 00:00 Introduction to Jordan Cornette 02:12 Balancing Career and Family 03:37 Influence of Family and Siblings 05:43 Joel Cornett Foundation Mission 09:57 Impact and Support of the Foundation 19:21 The Butler Way and Legacy 24:19 Spirit Animals and Personal Reflections 25:50 Closing Remarks and Future Plans Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44

In the second part of our two-part episode, we continue our in-depth convo with Brad Stevens, the Celtics President of Basketball Operations, talking about the Celtics' recent NBA championship, along with leadership, community, and values.  Brad reflects on his career and impactful time at Butler, including his relationship with the late Andrew Smith and the importance of being a great teammate. He emphasizes the significance of team dynamics, selflessness, and resilience in both sports and life.  We also touch on the legacy and influence of Project 44 with President and Co-Founder Samantha Smith-Michael. 00:00 Introduction and Overview 00:33 Brad Stevens' Leadership and Legacy 01:46 Reflections on Butler's Success 03:29 Andrew Smith's Impact and Legacy 06:21 Lessons from Andrew Smith 10:36 Project 44 and Community Support 17:38 Closing Thoughts and Gratitude Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: @JoinProject44 Facebook: Project 44 TikTok: @JoinProject44

In this special, part 1 of 2 episodes, Celtics President of Basketball Operations, Brad Stevens, delves into the intricacies of his career, from winning an NBA championship to managing the demands of the current season.  Brad shares his insights on leadership, team-building, and adapting to new roles, while reflecting on the influence of his past experiences at Butler and his transition from coaching to an executive role.  We also touch on the importance of character and competitive spirit in building a successful team. Brad gets candid about leadership lessons, providing a behind-the-scenes look at the mindset and strategies that drive him to become of basketball's most respected figures. This episode also features a special guest, Samantha Smith-Michael, Co-Founder and President of Project 44. 00:00 Introduction 00:48 Brad Stevens on Leadership and Challenges 02:52 Building a Winning Team 05:03 Transition from Coaching to Executive Role 06:57 Importance of Good People in an Organization 11:15 Brad Stevens' Career Journey 15:50 Recruitment and Team Building Insights Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: @JoinProject44 Facebook: Project 44 TikTok: @JoinProject44

In this episode, Anthony Leal, a student-athlete at Indiana University, discusses the challenges and rewards of balancing his academic pursuits as a master's student with his commitments to the basketball team.  He shares insights into his daily routine, which includes early morning workouts, classes, and team meetings, and how he incorporates his passion for golf as a competitive outlet. Anthony speaks about his decision to return for a fifth year, motivated by both unfinished business on the court and the pursuit of his master's degree.  He reflects on his role as a leader, both on and off the court, guiding new teammates through the culture of Bloomington and sharing his impactful gesture of using his NIL earnings to pay off his sister's student loans.  The conversation touches on the evolving opportunities for student-athletes through NIL, emphasizing the importance of using these opportunities for positive change. Anthony discusses the cultural shift within the team towards selflessness and the importance of inspiring a 'culture of yes' through Project 44 and other initiatives. He hopes his actions and values inspire others, highlighting the broader impact beyond basketball statistics. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 00:57 Balancing Basketball and Academics 01:40 A Day in the Life of a Student Athlete 02:05 Golf as a Competitive Outlet 03:38 Returning for a Fifth Year 04:17 Leadership On and Off the Court 06:14 Going Viral for Paying Off Sister's Student Loans 10:10 Impact of NIL on Student Athletes 12:01 Inspiring a Culture of Giving Back 14:59 Pride in Indiana Basketball 15:46 Final Thoughts and Legacy Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44

In this heartfelt episode, Emma Kelly, wife of Colts player Ryan Kelly, shares the powerful story of their family's resilience through personal tragedy and triumph.  Emma opens up about the complexities of managing life as a mother to twins while expecting another, and supporting Ryan during football season. The episode delves into their profound grief after losing their daughter, Mary Kate, their journey through IVF, and the joy brought by their miracle twins.  Emma discusses their deep involvement with 'Count the Kicks,' advocating for maternal health to prevent stillbirths. Highlighting the emotional highs and lows, this episode reminds us of the strength of family bonds, the importance of community support, and their advocacy work to honor Mary Kate's legacy. **As Project 44 and Finding 44 begin to engage in important conversations outside of our field of expertise, fact checking and ensuring we are using the correct verbiage is important to us. We would like to clarify, in the intro to this episode, we referred to Emma’s experience as ‘infant loss,’ where the correct term, according to Count the Kicks, is ‘stillbirth.’ 00:00 Introduction 01:47 Life with Twins and Football Season 02:41 Game Day Adventures and Nesting 05:03 Emma's Pregnancy Journey and Loss 07:42 The Birth of Duke and Ford 12:00 Count the Kicks and Maternal Health 14:02 Honoring Our Daughter's Memory 14:15 Joining Forces with Count the Kicks 15:03 The Importance of Counting Kicks 15:34 Personal Experience with Count the Kicks 17:16 Legislative Efforts and Community Impact 19:49 The Power of Community Support 21:35 Inspiring a Culture of Yes 22:59 Accepting Help and Building a Village 24:09 Family Spirit Animals 27:27 Community Baby Shower and Count the Kicks App 29:34 Final Thoughts and Gratitude Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44

Fall is upon us – and while football gets the early headlines this time of year…it will soon be time for tip off, buzzer beaters and brackets. Before they’re packing Hinkle Fieldhouse for a new season of Butler Basketball, seniors Pierre Brooks and Patrick McCaffery share how they’re building bonds with teammates, finding purpose with their platforms in college sports, and how connecting with kids in the community have shaped both their perspectives. Project 44 had the opportunity to partner with Pierre last season, and are excited to welcome him back, along with Patrick, a new addition to the Butler Basketball and All Good Dawgs roster. Listeners, we present to you, Pierre Brooks and Patrick McCaffrey, All Good Dawgs, and Champions for Change. Butler basketball seniors, Pierre Brooks and Patrick McCaffrey join Larra and Krissi to discuss their experiences and efforts in building strong bonds with new and returning teammates, leveraging their platforms in college sports for community engagement, and shaping their identities through connections with kids. They share their paths to joining the Butler Bulldogs, the excitement of the basketball season, and their personal investment in initiatives like Project 44 and All Good Dawgs. The discussion also touches on the impact of Patrick’s battle with cancer and the opportunity for athletes to champion causes beyond the sport. 00:00 Introduction 00:49 Campus Vibes and Pre-Season Excitement 02:22 Building Team Camaraderie 04:22 Choosing Butler: Personal Stories 05:55 Impact of Caitlin Clark and Indiana Basketball Culture 08:51 Community Engagement and All Good Dogs 10:40 Personal Experiences and Cancer Awareness 12:15 Balancing Basketball and Personal Growth 16:31 Encouraging a Culture of Yes 19:35 Closing Remarks and Future Plans Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44

I'm Larra Overton. And I'm Krissi Edgington, and this is Finding 44, the new podcast created by Project 44, spotlighting champions for change. In each episode, we'll talk to public figures, thought leaders, athletes, coaches, and more, who are doing great things in their communities, both in and outside of whatever arena they happen to play in. We'll explore successes on and off the court or field, favorite foods, funny memories, places to visit, and more. But, we think our guests' impressive accomplishments in their line of work and stellar local recommendations, are only outdone by their selfless willingness to give back to the communities around them. Inspired by the late Andrew Smith, wearing number 44 for the Butler Bulldogs, Project 44 is on a mission to create a culture of YES, where, whatever the cause, others are inspired to act in support of something bigger than themselves, and utilize their platform for the benefit of the greater good. Follow along on our journey to find other inspiring 44s as we shine a light on their incredible impact.  This is Finding 44: Spotlighting Champions for Change.  Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44