The Jump Around with Blake DuDonis

Kristen Gillespie - Illinois State HC May 29, 2023

Illinois State HC Kristen Gillespie joins me to talk about her journey. From a family of coaches, Coach Gillespie played for the legendary Kay Yow at NC State, and has coached at the high school, D3, D2, and D1 levels. She shares all about her journey, her family, her highs and lows, and the feeling once she and the Redbirds reached the top.

Sam Purcell- Mississippi State HC May 27, 2023

We're back! After a long, dormant period, The Jump Around returns with one of the best young coaches in the country. Sam Purcell just wrapped up season one at Mississippi State and he takes us through his journey to get to where he is. He also shares the high's and low's of year one, tells us what caught him by surprise, and what he thinks is in store in the future.

UC Irvine Head Coach Tamara Inoue Sep 01, 2021

UC Irvine head coach Tamara Inoue joins me and shares her story from her time as a prep and college baller in California and how that took her to Australia and the eventual start to her coaching career.

Delaware head coach Natasha Adair Aug 30, 2021

Delaware head coach Natasha Adair joins me to talk about her journey, from the DMV to Florida all the way to Delaware. She shares about the coaches who impacted her the most, her former players and what their success means to her, and how she took Delaware to the top of the CAA.

Former Wisconsin head coach Bobbie Kelsey Oct 27, 2020

Former Wisconsin head coach and Stanford student-athlete Bobbie Kelsey joins me on the pod to talk about her story to Stanford, around the country, and back to Stanford again. We discuss her time as head coach at Wisconsin and everything she's done since then. Then, we get into a long dive into the current climate in America.

Former Boston College head coach Erik Johnson Oct 20, 2020

Former Boston College and University of Denver head coach Erik Johnson joins me to tell all about his interesting story. From a tall practice player to the head coach of one of the most prestigious schools in the country, Erik shares all about how he got to where he did and how. Included are some chances meetings, some great successes, as well as a great personal tragedy.

St. Louis University head coach Lisa Stone Aug 26, 2020

Today I'm joined by St. Louis University head coach Lisa Stone, who has had a storied coaching career. Starting her career as a 22-year-old D3 head coach, Lisa has gone from little Cornell College to UW-Eau Claire to Drake to Wisconsin and now to St. Louis. She shares all about her journey and the lessons learned in between.

UNLV head coach Lindy La Rocque Aug 13, 2020

New UNLV head coach Lindy La Rocque joined me on the pod to talk all about her new gig and her journey to get there. After an incredible playing career at Stanford, La Rocque went on to serve on staff at Oklahoma, Belmont, and Stanford before returning to her hometown of Las Vegas as the head coach of UNLV. We talk all about that journey, her enjoyment of golf, and a Youtube clip that she is embarrassed by but I think is awesome.

UNC - A Head Coach Honey Brown Aug 12, 2020

Welcome back! After a few months away, we back! Joining me today is the new head women's basketball coach at UNC-Asheville, Honey Brown. Honey had been an assistant and associate head coach at UNCA for the past eight seasons before taking the top spot this spring. We discuss her journey through coaching, her rapping her version of Kurtis Blow, why the word "loyalty" comes up for her so often, and her love of Diet Coke.

Autism Awareness Month Part 2 Apr 30, 2020

In part 2 of a 2 part series on the last day of Autism Awareness Month, the University of Albany head coach Colleen Mullen joins me and shares her story. After having a daughter, Colleen and her wife, Lauren, decided to have one more child and ended up with twin boys. As time went on, they came to discover that they both were on the spectrum. Colleen graciously shares their story from start to finish.

Autism Awareness Month-Part 1 Apr 30, 2020

On the last day of Autism Awareness Month, LSU assistant women's basketball coach Aaron Kallhoff joins me in part 1 of a 2 part mini-series on women's basketball coaches who have a child with autism. We talk about how his son, Caylix, first was diagnosed with autism and the whole family's journey through that. We also talk about some of the misconceptions about autism, some of the positives that have come from it, and how far Caylix has come.

Stony Brook head hoach Caroline McCombs Apr 14, 2020

Fresh off a 28-3 season and an America East championship (and a new contract extension), Stony Brook head coach Carolina McCombs joined me on the pod. We talked about her journey as a standout player for Youngstown State to college coach, and all the people she worked for before taking over the Seawolves. We also talked about her team's historic season that was cut short.

Boston College head coach Joanna Bernabei-McNamee Apr 01, 2020

Boston College head coach Joanna Bernabei-McNamee (Coach Mac) joined me today in a really episode. We talked all about her team's 20 win season and 4th place finish in the ACC, their best finish since 2004-05 and how last season's end was a jumping off point for them. We also discuss her very long, winding, interesting journey, from playing D2, to winning a national championship as an assistant, to getting out of coaching for four years, to... well, you should just listen to her tell it.

Georgia Tech head coach Nell Fortner Mar 30, 2020

After taking seven years away from coaching, Nell Fortner took over a Georgia Tech program and exceeded all expectations in year one. The former Team USA gold medal-winning head coach and I discuss her coaching career that saw her learn from some of the legends of our game, to being burnt out and taking the TV route, to the job that made sense. We also discuss her love of music, her pets, and much more.

Kent State head coach Todd Starkey Mar 27, 2020

Kent State head coach Todd Starkey joined me to talk all about his journey from an NAIA player and coach, to building a D2 powerhouse, to being an assistant in the Big Ten, to now building a program in arguably the best mid-major conference in the country. We also share some old stories, talk about how he's navigating the current times, and how being the first choice isn't the most important thing.

Rider head coach Lynn Milligan Mar 26, 2020

Rider head coach Lynn Milligan joins me to talk about building her alma mater into one of the top teams in the MAAC and what it took to get there. We also discuss her college career as a duel athlete, how her stops as an assistant prepared her for her current position, what culture means to her, and how her team has dealt with the sudden end to their season.

Montana State head coach Tricia Binford Mar 20, 2020

After going 25-6 (19-1) and making it to the Big Sky Conference tournament championship game, Montana State saw their season come to a sudden stop due to the coronavirus. I talk to head coach Tricia Binford about a special season having such a strange end. We also discuss her standout career at Boise State as a student-athlete, her time playing in the WNBA and in Australia, how they came about having NBA legend John Stockton on their coaching staff for a season, and what simple thing she always messes up.

Fordham head coach Stephanie Gaitley Mar 20, 2020

Fresh off another 20+ win season, Fordham head coach Stephanie Gaitley joined me on the pod. We talk all about her journey from playing at Villanova under Harry Perretta to becoming a head coach at 25-years-old. Then we go into how she's been able to build so many programs at the mid-major level so many times. We also discuss a great story involving the recruitment of Rebecca Lobo, how her three sons have followed in her footsteps, and a story about my wife.

Samford head coach Carley Kuhns Mar 18, 2020

Samford head coach Carley Kuhns joins me to talk all about her team's incredible season, her first at the school. After winning 10 games a season ago, this season the Bulldogs won 18 games, split the regular season SOCON title, and won the conference tournament. We also talk about her time as a standout D2 player and her first head coaching job at her alma mater. We also discuss her fear of needles, her love of a certain TV series, and how her team handled not getting the chance to play in the NCAA tournament.

Samford head coach Carley Kuhns Mar 18, 2020

Samford head coach Carley Kuhns joins me on the pod to talk all about her team's incredible first season, going from 10 wins last year to 18 wins and a conference championship this year. We talk about her journey from a standout player at the D2 level and successful run as a head coach at her alma mater. We also discuss her fear of needles, her love of a certain TV show, and how her team handled missing out on playing in the NCAA tournament.

Princeton head coach Carla Berube Mar 05, 2020

After turning D3 Tufts into a national powerhouse during a 17-year run as it's head coach, former UConn great Carla Berube took over a thriving Princeton program and has them primed for a postseason run. We talk about her time at UConn, why D3 was the route she chose, and why Princeton was the move for her. We also talk about what makes her programs so good and why the Tigers are humming along so well.

Dayton head coach Shauna Green Mar 05, 2020

After leading Dayton to their 3rd A-10 regular-season title in four seasons, head coach Shauna Green joined me on the pod to talk about her team's success. We also dive into her journey from a standout at the college player, to starting her coaching career at the D3 level, all the way to now. We also laugh about Northwestern head coach Joe McKeown, who is just the best.

Merrimack head coach Monique LeBlanc Mar 03, 2020

After leading Merrimack College to 20 wins in their first season as a D1 program, head coach Monique LeBlanc joined the pod. We talk about her journey as a player at Bucknell to a young head coach of a, then, D2 program and how she transformed it from a struggling program into a contender. We also discuss her growth as a coach and person since her arrival at the Massachusetts based school in 2011, how they we able to be so good in their 1st D1 season, plus we share some stories from our time coaching together.

Bethune Cookman Head Coach Vanessa Blair - Lewis Feb 28, 2020

In today’s episode, I talk with Bethune Cookman head coach Vanessa Blair-Lewis, whose journey has been an accelerated one. After a stellar playing career at Mount St. Mary’s, she served two years as an assistant coach there before getting the job handed to her on the cusp of the season beginning at 25-years-old. All she did with that was become the first person in NEC history to win both the Player of the Year and Coach of the Year awards. She won 120 games at the Mount then undertook a new challenge at Bethune Cookman where she took a last place team and turned them into a MEAC powerhouse. We also discuss her family, including her NBA official husband and ballhog 6-year-old son, race in coaching, and much more.

Marquette Head Coach Megan Duffy Feb 27, 2020

We back! After taking off a few months for coaching purposes, The Jump Around returns as Marquette head coach Megan Duffy joins me today. We talk about her rise from a standout at Notre Dame to a super successful coach in the college ranks. Duffy takes use through her journey as an assistant at three different schools to a head coach who has managed to win 20+ games all three years she has been at the helm. We also discuss how all these stops has molded her, what most surprised her once she became a head coach, and how a Marquette team picked to finish 9th in the Big East is sitting in 2nd place.

Hartford HC Morgan Valley Sep 09, 2019

Hartford head coach Morgan Valley joins me to tell me all about her journey as a multi-sport high school athlete in Vermont, to winning three national championships at UConn, to a coaching career that moved her all over the country. We discuss her successes, struggles, and talk about how she nearly drowned in a triathlon last weekend.

UNC-Chapel Hill Head Coach Courtney Banghart Aug 29, 2019

UNC-Chapel Hill head coach Courtney Banghart joins me to talk all about her journey from NCAA college soccer prospect to head women’s basketball coach of one of the most prestigious colleges in the country. We talk about what led her to Dartmouth as an athlete, then back as a coach. Then, after winning just seven games in year one at Princeton, how she turned the Tigers into a national power. We also had some fun talking about food, movies, concerts and more.

Jackie Gemelos May 26, 2019

Once the #1 recruit in the country coming out of high school, Jackie Gemelos tore her ACL in the last game of her prep career. This turned out to be one of five ACL injuries she would go through, significantly shortening her career at USC and almost ending her professional career. Instead of packing it in, however, Gemelos kept working and eventually got drafted in the 3rd round of the WNBA draft. Though cut before the season started, she made her WNBA debut in 2015 with the Chicago style and has put together an impressive overseas resume. We talk all about her story, her new clothing line, her tattoos, plus a whole lot more. It's hard not to root for Jackie.

SW Oklahoma State head coach Kelsi Musick Apr 03, 2019

Just days removed from the national championship game, SW Oklahoma State head coach Kelsi Musick joins me to talk about her team's incredible season. We talk about her career journey and the difficulties of winning just three games in her first season as a head coach. Then, we talk through what led them to win the conference tournament in year three and now, in her 10th season, make it all the way to the national championship game.

Lubbock Christian Head Coach Steve Gomez Apr 02, 2019

Fresh off the program's second national championship in four years, Lubbock Christian head coach Steve Gomez joined me on the the pod. We discuss how being the child of an Air Force vet helped mold him (he lived in Indiana, South Dakota, and Germany, among other places) and how he stumbled into his current job. Also discussed was his team's undefeated run in 2015-'16 and how UConn played a part in it. Plus, what he was he thinking down 3 with three seconds left in OT in this year's championship?

James Madison head coach Sean O'Regan Apr 01, 2019

James Madison head coach Sean O'Regan joins me two days before his team's big WNIT Final Four matchup. We talk about what makes JMU so special that after graduating from there, he has spent 12 years there as an assistant and head coach. We talk about the most difficult things he faced when taking over the head coaching spot from Kenny Brooks, how he has grown the most, and what it felt like to take down his former boss in the WNIT this season.

Thomas More head coach Jeff Hans Mar 27, 2019

While everyone waits for the D1 Sweet Sixteen to play out, there is already a NCAA champion at the D3 level, and I talk to their head coach. Jeff Hans, head coach of Thomas More University joined me to talk about his program's second national championship. We discuss all that went into the season, including being an independent team, something that forced them to travel all across the country and play, at times, 5 games in 7 days. Despite that, the team went 33-0 to win the whole thing.

Bucknell head coach Aaron Roussell Mar 20, 2019

Aaron Roussell, head coach of the 12-seed Bucknell Bison, joined me to talk about his program as they head to their 2nd NCAA tournament under his guidance. We discuss his coaching journey and how a move to D1 was never in the plans but led him to take the Bucknell job without his wife ever seeing the place. We also talk about the building of the program that has led to his current group of seniors winning 100 games in their career. I also get him to share the story of going recruiting the same day his third child was born, plus we preview the matchup with Florida State.

Belmont head coach Bart Brook Mar 20, 2019

NCAA tournament-bound for the fourth straight year as a program and second straight year under him, Belmont head coach Bart Brooks joins me to talk all about his stellar team. We talk about his introduction to the coaching side of the game, and how working camps led to him working for the legendary Doug Bruno for 11 years. Also, what led him to Belmont, and how he had to overcome a lot of self-doubts once he was there. We also talk about him being a champion dairy goat showman in middle school. Yes, for real.

Boise State Head Coach Gordy Presnell Mar 19, 2019

Boise State head coach Gordy Presnell joined me to talk about his team's third straight trip to the NCAA tournament. We discuss the uniqueness of having a 30+ year career at only two schools, how his team approaches goal setting, and his side job when he first started coaching. *Note: due to an unfortunate technical issue, about half of the conversation got cut off. I felt the material that still made it was worth sharing, but sincere apologies for the issue that is out of my control.

Abilene Christian head coach Julie Goodenough Mar 12, 2019

Abilene Christian head coach Julie Goodenough joins me to talk about her coaching journey. Starting at the NAIA level, Coach went on to lead a program to four D3 tournaments, then took over at Oklahoma State. We discuss what went wrong in her three seasons there and how it helped her be successful down the road. After seven seasons at Charleston Southern, she took the Abilene Christian job and helped them transition to the D1 level and now has them on the brink of making the NCAA tournament for the first time ever.

New Mexico State head coach Brooke Atkinson Mar 11, 2019

New Mexico State head coach Brook Atkinson joined me to talk about her team's stellar season as they try to return to the NCAA tournament after making the WNIT last season. We discuss how she has grown from year one as the head coach to now in year two, the strangeness that is the WAC, and how her team has continued to improve as the season has gone along.

Drexel head coach Denise Dillon Mar 11, 2019

As we continue our "Upset" series, coaches of programs who could break your bracket, Drexel head coach Denise Dillion joined me. We talk all about her 16 seasons at the Philly based school and how she turned a once dormant program into a consistent force atop the CAA. We also discuss her playing career at Villanova and how an injury led her into coaching. We also discuss whistling.

UT-Arlington head coach Krista Gerlich Mar 07, 2019

UT-Arlington head coach Krista Gerlich joined me to talk about how she has taken her program to levels it's never been before. We also talked about her playing career at Texas Tech that finished with a national championship her senior year and, eventually, her jersey hanging in the rafters. We also talk about how she has grown as a head coach since starting at the D2 level, how difficult her first season at UTA was when they only won 4 games, and the process of missing out on their biggest recruit: her daughter.

American head coach Megan Gebbia Mar 07, 2019

American head coach Megan Gebbia joined me today to talk about her program in another episode of our "Upset" series, a focus on teams that could bust your bracket come NCAA tournament time. We talk about her 10 years at Marist as an associate head coach and all she learned during her time there, plus what made her take the leap and accept the American job. We also discuss her immediate success with the team before a really difficult third season. After that difficult year three, the team has blossomed again, something Coach gives credit to that season for. We also talk about the really bizarre way she hurt her ankle, poison ivy, and a raccoon in her garage.

Quinnipiac head coach Tricia Fabbri Mar 05, 2019

Quinnipiac head coach Tricia Fabbri joins me for the third episode of the "Upset" series. Nearing the end of her 23rd season at Quinnipiac, we talk all about her playing career at Fairfield before entering the coaching ranks. We also discuss that while the program is humming along now, it wasn't always that way, and she nearly quit the job. We also discussed the program's run to the Sweet Sixteen two seasons ago and how she isn't satisfied with just making it that far anymore.

Missouri State head coach Kellie Harper Mar 05, 2019

The second episode in our "Upset" series, former Lady Vol great and current head coach at Missouri State Kellie Harper joined me

Lamar head coach Robin Harmony Mar 04, 2019

The first episode of our "Upset" series where I highlight programs that could bust some brackets come NCAA tournament time, Lamar University head coach Robin Harmony joined me this morning. A Miami (FL) Hall of Famer herself as a player, Harmony spent over 18 years coaching in Coral Gables before starting an NAIA program from scratch. After building a dynasty there, she took her first D1 head coaching job at Lamar and has the team on the brink of a tournament birth. We talk about her background, how Lamar has gotten so good, plus a great story about one of her Miami (FL) talking big trash (and backing it up).

High Point head coach DeUnna Hendrix Feb 28, 2019

High Point University head coach DeUnna Hendrix joined me on the pod today. We talked about her high school HOF career, how she has grown as a head coach over her seven years in charge of the Panthers, and why she has been able to be successful. We also talk about her missing a game this year to go to her mom's own Hall of Fame ceremony, her love of Air Fryers, and how she use to charge neighborhood kids to come to her house and watch her perform basketball moves.

Cincinnati head coach Michelle Clark-Heard Feb 27, 2019

Cincinnati head coach Michelle Clark-Heard joined me on the pod to talk about her stellar coaching career. She tells me about her time as a player at Western Kentucky and the high levels of success her team had, and what eventually got her into college coaching after starting a career outside of sports. We then talk about the programs she built at Kentucky State and Western Kentucky and what convinced her to leave both when she did. Now with Cincinnati on the brink of their first 20 win season in over 15 years, Coach told me all about why she believes in Cincinnati and how they plan on continuing to be successful. I also get her to tell me a funny Jeff Walz story.

Towson head coach Diane Richardson Feb 27, 2019

Towson head coach Diane Richardson joins me to talk all about her interesting journey. We discuss her college career, specifically her qualifying for the 1980 US Track and Field Olympic team but not getting to compete due to the US protesting the USSR hosted games. We also talk about her banking career and why she eventually sold her company to get into coaching. We also go over her relationship with WNBA star Jonquel Jones and what circumstances led to her becoming Jones' legal guardian. We then discuss her Towson program who is having one of it's best seasons in recent history.

Wright State head coach Katrina Merriweather Feb 25, 2019

Wright State head coach Katrina Merriweather joined me today to talk all about her program, one of the best mid-major programs in the country. We discuss her playing career at Cincinnati and how she always wanted to be a coach and the lessons she learned during her coaching career as an assistant, including the violation of some NCAA rules that led to a pause in her colligate coaching career. We also talk about what brought her to Wright State and how she has helped the team continue to excel after she moved from an assistant to the head coach.

Appalachian State head coach Angel Elderkin Feb 21, 2019

Appalachian State head coach Angel Elderkin joined me in one of the more emotional episodes to date. We discuss her coaching journey, from being an assistant to stepping back to being a GA for Pat Summitt, all leading to her head coaching job at App State. After her second season at App, Angel was diagnosed with cancer, a topic we really dove deep into. She told me about her treatment and how she made it through, but also shared about the dark times of her recovery. We also talk about her much improved Mountaineer squad and what they need to do as they push down the final stretch of the regular season.

Boston University Head Coach Marisa Moseley Feb 18, 2019

A first-year head coach at her alma mater, Boston University head coach Marisa Moseley joined me to on the pod. We talk about her getting into coaching after it wasn't her original goal, but how she ended up as an assistant coach at UConn just a few years later. We discuss the success she had as a Huskie and how that has translated to BU. We also discuss the highs and lows of being a head coach for the first time, plus how she has adjusted to the different level she is now coaching on.

Houston head coach Ronald Hughey Feb 03, 2019

Houston head coach Ronald Hughey took some time out to talk to me about his story and his program on an early Sunday morning. We talk about his humble upbringings and how that affected the steps he took in his career, plus what he has learned from working for C. Vivian Stringer, Gail Goestenkors, and Sue Semrau. Hughey then tells me about his Houston program and what gave him the confidence that they would be successful, even after going 6-24 in his first two seasons. We also get into plenty more, all thanks to some uncommon honesty from him.

Drake head coach Jennie Baranczyk Jan 30, 2019

The leader of a program that hasn’t lost a conference game since 2016, Drake head coach Jennie Baranczyk joined me on the pod today. We discuss her successful Drake program and what it took to get them to the level they are playing at today, including her first signee and the impact she made. We also talked about the advice she got from a coaching legend on an airplane at the very beginning of her coaching career, what it’s like having your name thrown out there every time a bigger job opens up, and what it’s like having a president that comes to your games and yells just as loud as everyone else.

Iowa head coach Lisa Bluder Jan 23, 2019

Now in her 19th season as the head coach of the Iowa Hawkeyes, Lisa Bluder joined me to talk all about her program before their game tonight against 1st place Rutgers. We talk about her career that has occurred entirely in the state of Iowa, how she has continue to adapt to the changing scenery, and about that decent post player her team has.

Clemson head coach Amanda Butler Jan 22, 2019

Already with the most ACC wins since 2013, Clemson head coach Amanda Butler took some time to chat with me about the team's success in her 1st season at the school. We also discussed the learning she did in her "gap year" between Florida and Clemson, how she has changed as a coach since being at Florida, and if the story of her running into a wall to pop back in her injuried shoulder is true or not.

Hampton Head Coach David Six Jan 17, 2019

For this episode, I was joined by Hampton head coach David Six. A long-time high school head coach who was once named AP Coach of the Year, Coach Six is the winningest coach in Hampton history. He is also an Air Force Vet. Despite that impressive list of accolades, perhaps his most impressive accomplishment is that he not only survived a stroke on June 27, 2018, but that he was back to work before the first official practice in October. Listen to this man's story.

Northeastern head coach Kelly Cole Jan 15, 2019

Northeastern head coach Kelly Cole took some time to join me during one of the best starts in the programs history. A longtime assistant at Boston College, Kelly stepped away from the college game to coach high school for six years after having three children, all under the age of 3 at the time. We discuss that, plus her journey back into college coaching and, eventually, taking over at Northeastern. We talk about how her team has gotten to this point (12-3 when this episode first aired), her memories over that time, and the one time her team pushed a bus out of the snow.

Rice head coach Tina Langley Jan 13, 2019

This episode I am joined by Rice head coach Tina Langley. We discuss how she took her program from just 9 wins in year one, to 23 wins the past two seasons, including a WBI championship and a WNIT birth. We also talk about her journey to Rice, how the high academic standards at the school has been an asset, and how the team continues to improve.

Central Michigan head coach Sue Gurvara Jan 11, 2019

Sue Guevara, head coach of Central Michigan, joined me today in a really fun episode. We discussed her college coaching career as a WBB assistant AND the head softball coach at Saginaw Valley, her time working for Tara Vanderveer and Nell Fortner, and if she took the time to appreciate CMU's run to the Sweet Sixteen a season ago. I also asked her a question that, after great pause, Sue declared has never been asked of her before.

Old Dominion head coach Nikki McCray Jan 09, 2019

A legend of the game joined me today: Nikki McCray. The head coach of Old Dominion and a member of the Women's Basketball Hall of Fame, Nikki talked to me about her career as a player, from her time at Tennessee all the way through the ABL and the WNBA. I also tried to get her to tell me an embarrassing story about Dawn Staley, her former teammate and boss, but she wasn't biting.

South Dakota head coach Dawn Plitzuweit Jan 09, 2019

Dawn Plitzuweit, head coach of the University of South Dakota, joined me after a thrilling 2OT win over archrival South Dakota State. We discussed that game plus the incredible success that South Dakota has had as a whole. Coach also called me out for my intro music to my pod, told me the name of their family dog (which shows how competitive she is), and how she has grown in her career.

South Alabam head coach Terry Fowler Jan 07, 2019

For the first episode of 2019, I was joined by South Alabama head coach Terry Fowler. Coach has taken over a Jaguars program that was in a bad spot and has led them to a 12-1 record this season, something we talk about plenty but discuss even more his philosophy as a coach. We also talk about his dislike of coffee and love for orange juice, how his career was almost one in a MLB front office, and why he has only coached at smaller schools.

Penn head coach Mike McLaughlin Dec 19, 2018

Today I was joined by Penn head coach Mike McLaughlin, the fastest coach to win 400 games in NCAA history (459 games). We talk about his time at Holy Family University and how he turned Penn into one of the best mid-major’s in the country. We also discuss his time as a member of the Washington Generals, the hapless opponents of the Harlem Globetrotters. Also discussed was his 57% career three-point shooting as a player, the challenges of the Ivy League, and what has been his hardest time as a coach.

Gonzaga head coach Lisa Fortier Dec 18, 2018

Gonzaga head coach Lisa Fortier joined me to talk all about her program's success, both when she was an assistant and when she took over as the head coach five seasons ago. We discuss the challenges in having so much success and what happens when they lose, the confidence she learned to have in herself over time, how her team handled losing their best player from a season ago when she unexpectedly decided to graduate, and the story of a player leaving behind her appendix in Missouri.

Yale head coach Allison Guth Dec 13, 2018

Yale head coach Allison Guth joined me today and we talked about a lot. We covered why she took the Yale job and the apparent attraction to academically challenging schools, her team's 19 win season a year ago and why a WBI championship was so important to them, and what her team is like now. We also discuss "Guth's Goodies" and her incredible streak of running 4-6 miles a day for a year straight, even if that meant running at 3 a.m.

Louisville head coach Jeff Walz Dec 12, 2018

Louisville head coach Jeff Walz joins me and we cover a variety of topics. We discuss his climb up the coaching ladder and how unexpected it was for him, how his program has been able to be so successful and some of the, err, "questionable" officiating (my words, not his) in the game. We also talk about if he is color blind or not, his stutter and how he has gotten over his fear of public speaking, and a great Angel McCoughtry story.

St. John's head coach Joe Tartamella Dec 03, 2018

Joe Tartamella, the head coach at St. John's, has been a part of the women's basketball program in Queens since 2002. I talk to him about his unusual climb while staying at one place, the program's success and why they are able to play UConn so tough time and time again. We also discuss one of the best practice teams ever, the end of his playing career in the over-30 league and what to expect from his team moving forward.

Minnesota Lynx GM And Head Coach Cheryl Reeve Nov 21, 2018

Cheryl Reeve, GM and head coach of the Minnesota Lynx was kind enough to join me in person in their downtown Minneapolis offices. We talked about her crying in her first ever college game, how her former bosses have helped mold her, who would in a fight between all the WNBA coaches and what needs to be down to foster real growth in the WNBA.

North Alabama head coach Missy Tiber Nov 20, 2018

Missy Tiber, head coach of the University of North Alabama, joins me to talk about her team's first season at the D1 level and what it's been like since their upset of Vanderbilt in their first game. We also discuss her journey to North Alabama and how the success (and failures) in her career have led her to this point. We also talk about her team's 5-0 start and what the expectations are moving forward.

Thanksgiving Draft with Rebecca Lobo, Steve Rushin and Eric Thibault Nov 19, 2018

ESPN analyst and Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Famer Rebecca Lobo, Sports Illustrated writer and former National Sportswriter of the Year (and author) Steve Rushin, and Washington Mystics assistant coach Eric Thibault all joined me to talk about... Thanksgiving. We had a Thanksgiving draft. How ridiculous.

UCLA head coach Cori Close Nov 06, 2018

With the college season beginning today (!!), I was joined by UCLA head coach Cori Close. We talked about her team's breakthrough to the Elite Eight last season and what her expectations are after losing a great senior class. We also get into Cori's faith and how that drives her coaching, plus a deep talk about her purpose as a coach.

Oregon head coach Kelly Graves Nov 02, 2018

Joining me for this episode is Oregon head coach Kelly Graves. Fresh off of a #3 ranking, the highest preseason ranking in program history, Kelly and I talk about his team and the lofty expectations put on them. We also talk about the growth of Sabrina Ionescu, his star point guard and potential #1 pick in the WNBA draft if she chooses to leave. We also talk about his small roster (only 9 healthy players), the expereience that a few of their players got while representing Team USA in the 2018 FIBA 3x3 World Cup and about a tough non-conference schedule.

Arizona head coach Adia Barnes Nov 02, 2018

Arizona head coach Adia Barnes hops on the podcast with me to talk about her program and the rebuilding process. I ask her why the program has struggled since she left as a player and what needs to happen to get them competing again. We also talk about how she averaged over 17 PPG in her career yet only hit three three-pointers.

South Carolina and Team USA head coach Dawn Staley Nov 01, 2018

Dawn Staley of South Carolina and Team USA joined me. 'Nuff said.

Washington head coach Jody Wynn Oct 31, 2018

Today I was joined by Jody Wynn, second-year head coach of the Washington Huskies. We talked about her time as a head coach at Long Beach State before taking the UW job and what some of the challenges have been, including leaving a winning program to take over a rebuild job. We also discussed her past as an assistant coach in the PAC-12, the prospects of her team moving forward and one time when she took a team to her parent's house where there were photos of a young Jody with big hair.

Utah head coach Lynne Roberts Oct 29, 2018

Joining me for this episode is Utah head coach Lynne Roberts. We discussed her super competitive nature and how she once missed spring workouts during her playing career due to injury but still played in an intramural soccer game. The outcome wasn't great. We also talk about her career as a coach in which she has been tasked with rebuilding three programs and if that was something she ever expected. We also talk about her team this season and what their expectations are.

Cal head coach Lindsay Gottlieb Oct 25, 2018

California head coach Lindsay Gottlieb joined me as she heads into her 8th season as the Golden Bears head coach. We talk about her wedding this summer (hooray!)as well as some of her childhood. We then get into her time at Cal and if she feels like her team's run to the Final Four in her second season set expectations at a lofty level moving forward. We also get into her team and the expectations this season with the top 3 leading scorers all returning.

LSU head coach Nikki Fargas Oct 23, 2018

LSU head coach Nikki Fargas joined me to discuss her journey from a player at Tennesee all the way to head coach at LSU. On the brink of career win number 200, Nikki tells me about the transition from UCLA to LSU, her team's history of outperforming expectations and what to expect going forward. She also talks about Fourth Quarter Fridays, a unique training that her team went through this summer.

Georgia head coach Joni Taylor Oct 16, 2018

Joni Taylor, head coach of the Georgia Bulldogs, becomes the first two time guest on The Jump Around! We talk about her background a bit, what got her into college coaching and why Athens, Georgia is such a special place. We also talk about her team's successful run last season that ended much earlier than they expected it to. What led to that and what will need to happen this season to make it last longer were both discussed as well.

Arkansas head coach Mike Neighbors Oct 11, 2018

Joining me for this episode is Arkansas head coach Mike Neighbors. After leading Washington to Final Four and Sweet Sixteen appearances, Neighbors took his dream job back at his alma mater. His journey to get there, though, wasn't so simple. A heart attack at 29, then another one several years later, help lead Neighbors down a path that led him back to Fayetteville. We also discuss his love of music and how he ended up playing on a stage with the SEC Network's and women's basketball coaching legend Nell Fortner the day before the SEC Tournament.

Kentucky head coach Matthew Mitchell Oct 11, 2018

Kentucky head coach Matthew Mitchell joined me to talk about his surprising journey to his current position. A man with dreams of being a principal and coach at the youth level, a chance to serve on Pat Summit's staff at Tennessee changed all of that. We also talk about his Kentucky team failing to make the postseason for the first time in his 11-season tenure and why he is so optimistic going forward.

Mississippi State head coach Vic Schaefer Oct 10, 2018

Mississippi State head coach Vic Schaefer joined me to discuss his incredible run in Starkville. We talk about the pieces his team has lost but what we can expect from his still talented roster. I also ask him if he ever expected his program to reach the heights that it has. We also talk about his love of fishing and golf, plus what his plans are once his coaching days are finished.

Ole Miss head coach Yolett McPhee-McCuin Oct 09, 2018

Newly hired Ole Miss women's basketball head coach Yolette McPhee-McCuin, better known as "Coach Yo" joined me in a wide-ranging conversation. We discuss her time at Jacksonville and how she found success at a place that hadn't had much of that before her time there. We also discuss her Ole Miss team, her expectations and the difficulties she faced (and still faces) after taking the job. Also discussed is her place as a female head coach and what she hopes to do as a successful woman in her position. That conversation also included how race places into things and the racial history of the state of Mississippi.

Auburn head coach Terri Williams-Flournoy Oct 04, 2018

Today I was joined by Terri Williams-Flournoy, known as Coach Flo to many. We talk about her journey from Georgetown to Auburn and what made her switch to the full court, havoc type defense they play (a defense that forced 23 turnovers per game last season, 3rd most in the country). We talk about the difficulty of building a program and what to expect from her Auburn team that has both a lot of talented returners and newcomers. She also tells me how importance of having a staff that she can trust and get along with (two of her assistants have been with here for all 7 seven seasons in Auburn.) Coach Flo was a lot of fun in this one.

Alabama head coach Kristy Curry Oct 03, 2018

Alabama head coach Kristy Curry joins me today as talk about her journey from being a 21-year-old high school coach all the way to where she is today. We discuss her making the Final Four three out of four years (two as an assistant at Louisiana Tech and one as the head coach at Purdue) and how difficult it is to get back. We also talk about her time at Alabama, the team's expectations and what to expect from her Tide team with a lot of new faces.

Tennessee head coach Holly Warlick Oct 02, 2018

Tennessee head coach Holly Warlick joined me to talk all things Lady Vols. We discussed her playing time at Tennessee, followed by her long stay as both an assistant and a head coach. I asked her how the constant chatted of people wanting her fired affects her and if that noise gets too loud sometimes. We also discussed the tension that seems to have been around the program for the past few seasons. Finally, we discuss this season's team, the importance of Meme Jackson and what makes this freshman class so special.

Florida head coach Cameron Newbauer Oct 01, 2018

Florida head coach Cameron Newbauer joined me on the pod and was extremely open about his shortcomings as a head coach. We talk about him, in his words, wasn't coaching the way his kids needed and how he fixed it. We also talked about his journey to Florida starting way back in his days as a men's coach before working for Andy Landers at Georiga. After that, we talk about this year's Florida team and what to expect from them going forward. Cam then ended the interview with a joke so bad, it was kinda good.

Vanderbilt head coach Stephanie White Sep 27, 2018

As I begin my preview of the upcoming SEC WBB season, Vanderbilt head coach Stephanie White joined me to talk about her journey to the program. Now entering Year 3, White tells me what improvements her team has made, plus the ones they need to continue to make. We discuss her staff's success on the recruiting trail (#19 class in the nation this past year) and what to expect from this year's Commodore team.

Writer Jessica Luther Sep 05, 2018

I'm joined by Jessica Luther, a freelance writer whose work came to national prominence when she, along with Dan Soloman, broke open the Baylor football sexual assault story. Since then, Jessica has been at the forefront of journalists breaking these types of stories (she also had a big hand in the Dallas Mavericks story that broke earlier this year). We discussed the Baylor story, but also talked a lot about Ohio State and Urban Meyer. We also talked about how she personally deals with hearing these types of stories daily, what can be done to help fix the problem and what else there is still to be done.

The Thibaults Aug 19, 2018

The long-awaited family episode. I sit down with Washington Mystics head coach and general manager Mike Thibault, Mystics assistant coach Eric Thibault, University of Minnesota assistant coach Carly Thibault, plus Mike's wife Nanci (affectionately known as Pants) and Eric's fiancee Dreya. We talk all things Mystics, WNBA season, Mike's career, the growth of the sport and more. We also have a WNBA player's name spelling bee which may or may not have been rigged.

TCU Head Coach Raegan Pebley Aug 07, 2018

TCU women's basketball head coach and Dallas Wings lead TV analyst Raegan Pebley joins me to discuss both of her basketball roles. We talked about the staff she was on at Colorado State with Tom Collen, Nicki Collen, Curt Miller and Becky Hammon, her appointment as a 26-year-old head coach at Utah State and how that led her here. Plus, how she got into TV and all that she has learned in that role.

Atlanta Dream Head Coach Nicki Collen Aug 05, 2018

Atlanta Dream head coach Nicki Collen, the WNBA Coach of the Month in July, sits down with me the night before the Dream's game at Minnesota. We dive into Collen's journey to her current position, talk about her taking the Dream job andTiffany Hayes' snub from the All-Star Game. I also get her to tell me a fun Curt MIller story.

ESPN Analyst Brooke Weisbrod Aug 02, 2018

ESPN basketball analyst Brooke Weisbrod joined me to discuss her journey from college basketball to broadcasting, with all the twists and turns in between. She also talked about her work with WNBA kicks, some of her favorite moments while broadcasting and also shared some of her struggles post-playing career. Somehow, we had a four-round draft of breakfast foods as well. I think I won.

Sydney Wiese Jun 29, 2018

Los Angles Sparks guard Sydney Wiese calls in to chat about her Final Four run at Oregon State, the difficult transition from college to the WNBA and about teammate Essence Carson's music career. She also tells a story about almost getting struck by lightning.

Kayla McBride Jun 28, 2018

Following a career night where she scored 38 points, Kayla McBride sits down with me to discuss the game. She also talks about her maturity since coming into the league, being honored at Notre Dame, the transition from San Antonio to Las Vegas, her passion for telling the stories of other players in the WNBA and much more.

Kaela Davis And Allisha Gray Jun 19, 2018

Current members of the Dallas Wings and former South Carolina Gamecocks Kaela Davis and Allisha Gray join me before their game in Minnesota. We talk about their national championship run and their time with the Wings. We also discuss who Gamecock nation loves more: Dawn Staley or her dog, Champ.

Jim Jabir - FAU May 22, 2018

I chat with Florida Atlantic head coach Jim Jabir about his long (and interesting) career. Jabir took Dayton to the Elite Eight in 2015 and was even leading UConn at halftime of that game. He has had a ton of success but has had some failures too. We talk about how those changed him and impact his coaching today. We also talk about his time coaching in Europe, his love of reading and we have a really good talk about the best pizza in New York.

Robyn Fralick - BGSU May 18, 2018

New Bowling Green State University women's basketball head coach Robyn Fralick joins me today to discuss her new job. We also cover her 104-3 record as a head coach, the challenges she faces at BGSU and how she plans to attack them, plus what is the legacy she hopes to one day leave. We cover all of this and more!

Emily Potter May 10, 2018

Former Utah WBB player Emily Potter talks to me about her decision to write an article for her school newspaper that detailed her battle with depression. We talk about what it took to get to that point, her low points in that fight and what her life has been like since the article. We also discuss her food instagram, her homemade cake pops and her love of Christmas.

Marc Mitchell - Saint Peter's May 10, 2018

I talk with the new head coach of the women's basketball program at St. Peter's, Marc Mitchell, about his journey from the HS to D3 to D1. We discuss his upbringing, his success at the D3 level and what challenges are ahead for him.

Dave Slifer, Central Missouri Apr 13, 2018

I speak with D2 women's basketball national championship head coach Dave Slifer about his team's run to the title. We also discuss his journey to Central Missouri, how his wife came to be his assistant and how I called him old before the interview.

Buffalo head coach Felisha Legette-Jack Mar 30, 2018

I talk with Felisha Legette-Jack, head coach of the University at Buffalo about her team's run to the Sweet Sixteen, how she bounced back from being fired at Indiana and about her now viral response about diversity in coaching.

Katie Smith Mar 28, 2018

I'm in Columbus for the Final Four and I sit down with Columbus legend and current New York Liberty head coach Katie Smith. We talk about the city, her favorite Final Four memory, the most difficult part of her basketball life and much more.

The UConn Conversation with Rebecca Lobo Mar 22, 2018

Following UConn's dominating first round win, I speak with Joe Haigh who the head coach of St. Francis (PA), the team who was on the receiving end of that big loss. We talk about the game, the team's approach and how he feels about the conversation stemming from it. I then speak with ESPN analyst and hall of fame member Rebecca Lobo about the conversation, if she thinks she could play in today's WNBA, why she refuses to change the channel when UConn is destroying someone and much more. Finally, I give my final thought for the day. Today, that thought is about the coaching carousel and the challenges facing a specific set of coaches.

Pilot Part 2- Joni Taylor and Lindsay Whalen Mar 16, 2018

In part 2/2 of our pilot episode, I get the chance to talk to two women who have knocked down doors for others. First it's Georgia head coach Joni Taylor. We talk about her transition from assistant coach to head coach of Georgia, her new life as a mom and what it means that she is one of just 10 black head coaches in the NCAA tournament. We then talk to Minnesota Lynx point guard Lindsay Whalen about a variety of topics. We start with her best NCAA tournament memory, transition to her favorite postgame beer, then I try to trick her into starting a beef with Candace Parker over the 2008 WNBA MVP award. To wrap up the show, I share my favorite, personal memory of the NCAA tournament.

The Pilot Part 1- Kelly Graves, Jose Fernandez and Jason Flowers Mar 15, 2018

This is part 1 of our pilot episode and in honor of the men's NCAA tournament, we talk with three men on the women's side of the game. Oregon head coach Kelly Graves talks to us about his journey to Oregon, his sideline coaching wear and the progress of his team. We then chat with USF's Jose Fernandez about his love of fishing, red wine and bourbon collection before diving into coverage issues around women's basketball and the selection committee. Our last guest is Jason Flowers of CSUN, a coach with a unique background and approach to his team. Also, his love of rap music. We finish with One Final Thought, a salute to Utah's Emily Potter. Music by: http://audionautix.com/ soundcloud.com/freehiphopbeatsforyou

Pilot Teaser Mar 10, 2018

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