Mr. Irrelevant Videocast

On this episode of the Mr. Irrelevant podcast, host Josh Lewin chats with Emmy Award-winning editor Jill Calhoun about her path from aspiring filmmaker to shaping stories behind the scenes. Calhoun shares how an early experience in sound design sparked her passion, how music and performance influence her sense of rhythm, and why collaboration matters more than credit. She opens up about navigating self-doubt, building authentic relationships in a competitive industry, and redefining success on her own terms. A conversation about creativity, persistence, and finding your place behind the lens.  

On this episode of the Mr. Irrelevant podcast, host Josh Lewin chats with former NFL offensive lineman and NFL Network analyst Brian Baldinger about his journey from undrafted long shot to a 143-game NFL career. Baldinger shares how he earned a roster spot with the Cowboys against the odds, the mindset it took to succeed as an overlooked lineman, and how preparation became his edge both on the field and in broadcasting. He reflects on lessons from legendary coach Ernie Stautner, working alongside Pat Summerall, and his unforgettable tackle-eligible touchdown moment. A conversation about preparation, perseverance, and making yourself impossible to ignore.

On this episode of the Mr. Irrelevant podcast, host Josh Lewin chats with Rudy Ruettiger about his journey from overlooked underdog to Notre Dame legend. Growing up as one of 14 kids while facing dyslexia and constant doubt, Rudy shares how he pushed past criticism, served in the Navy, and took an unconventional path to earn his place at Notre Dame. He breaks down his “four C’s”—courage, character, commitment, and contribution—while revisiting his iconic 1975 sack, clarifying what the movie got wrong, and reflecting on support from Coach Dan Devine and reactions from teammates like Joe Montana. A conversation about belief, determination, and proving the doubters wrong.

On this episode of the Mr. Irrelevant podcast, host Josh Lewin chats with former NFL quarterback Jay Fiedler about his unlikely journey—from Ivy League QB to Dolphins playoff hero. After going undrafted, Fiedler fought his way through cuts, time out of the league, and stints in Europe before earning another shot in the NFL and eventually being the last quarterback to lead the Dolphins to a playoff win. He reflects on stepping in for Dan Marino, the highs of a playoff win, the lows that followed, and how those experiences shaped his life after football. A conversation about perseverance, grit, and navigating the highs and lows of the game.

On this episode of the Mr. Irrelevant podcast, host Josh Lewin chats with thriller author and former U.S. Navy intelligence officer Ama (A.M.) Adair about her unconventional path from military service to published novelist. After 21 years in the Navy, including deployments in places like Baghdad, Adair shares how real-life experiences inspired her writing and helped her navigate imposter syndrome, anxiety, and the vulnerability of putting creative work into the world. She reflects on the power of being underestimated, pushing through self-doubt, and finding resilience through storytelling. A conversation about discipline, perspective, and turning experience into purpose.

On this episode of the Mr. Irrelevant podcast, host Josh Lewin chats with Broadway actor and musician Brian d’Arcy James about his unexpected journey from the football field to the stage. From earning the nickname “the flea” as a junior high safety to discovering his voice and passion for performance, Brian reflects on the moments that shaped his path. He opens up about the loss of his father just after graduating from Northwestern, the resilience it took to push through rejection, and the winding road to five Tony nominations. A conversation about perseverance, identity, and trusting where you’re meant to go.

On this episode of the Mr. Irrelevant podcast, host Josh Lewin chats with world-renowned chef, restaurateur, and the first female Iron Chef...Cat Cora! Cat opens up about her early beginnings, from being adopted as a newborn to finding confidence through the unwavering support of her family. She shares the realities of facing sexism in the culinary world, being one of the only women in her class, and pushing past rejection to train under some of the best chefs in France. A conversation about resilience, breaking barriers, and redefining what it means to belong on your own terms.

In the debut episode of Mr. Irrelevant, host Josh Lewin sits down with super-agent Leigh Steinberg. You know Steinberg as the inspiration for the film Jerry Maguire and his representation of 300+ athletes including eight top picks in the pro football draft. But like all of us, Steinberg also has experienced some "Mr. Irrelevant" moments of doubt and turbulence. Enjoy this candid conversation about persistence and positivity in the face of life's inevitable challenges.  🎧Watch or listen to the full Leigh Steinberg episode on the Mr. Irrelevant podcast available on Spotify, Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts! #leighsteinberg #mrirrelevant #podcast #joshlewin

Trailer!  Mr. Irrelevant tells the stories of those who were counted out—and kept going anyway. From sports to music to business, this podcast explores what it takes to outlast doubt and earn relevance on your own terms.