UNRESERVED with TJ Callaway

Latest Episodes:

Gunner Stockton Oct 11, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Unreserved, TJ Callaway shares a conversation with Georgia Bulldogs quarterback Gunner Stockton about football, leadership, and life between the lines. Joined by Hammy Culpepper from Bulldog Illustrated and the Hammy Show, the discussion explores Gunner’s journey from Tiger, Georgia, to Athens, the lessons learned from his father and Coach Kirby Smart, and the mindset that keeps him grounded amid the spotlight of SEC football.

Gunner reflects on his roots in small-town Georgia, the transition from high school standout to leading one of college football’s most storied programs, and the importance of staying humble, faithful, and focused through it all. He talks about learning from mentors like Stetson Bennett, building chemistry with teammates, and handling pressure moments from the SEC Championship to the roar of Neyland Stadium.

Filled with insight, humor, and authenticity, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at what drives one of Georgia’s rising stars on and off the field.

Growing Up in Tiger, Georgia (00:01:45)
High School Success and Early Spotlight Moments (00:05:20)
Handling Pressure and Blocking Out the Noise (00:08:10)
Lessons from Kirby Smart and Georgia’s Culture (00:10:15)
Leadership, Adversity, and Big-Game Moments (00:14:40)
Family Support, Faith, and Game-Day Traditions (00:20:00)
Season Outlook, Rivalries, and What’s Ahead (00:28:45)
Closing Reflections and Gratitude (00:48:00)

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TJ Callaway⁠ is the Founder and CEO of ⁠Onward Reserve⁠, a lifestyle brand created with a deep appreciation for life's authentic moments, high regard for quality products and the spirit of sporting traditions.

Country Star Dylan Marlowe May 12, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Unreserved, TJ Callaway chats with rising country star Dylan Marlowe at the iconic Georgia Theatre in Athens. Dylan shares his journey from small-town Georgia to Nashville, opening up about his early love for baseball, discovering songwriting through Eric Church, and chasing his music dreams with his dad’s support. He reflects on the impact of going number one with “Boys Back Home,” collaborating with artists like Hardy and Connor Smith, and navigating the music industry with authenticity. The two also dive into stories about deer hunting and balancing fame with faith and marriage.

Early Tour Memories (00:01:01)

Growing Up in Georgia and Discovering Music (00:01:29)

First Steps into Songwriting and Open Mic Nights (00:03:08)

Going Number One with “Boys Back Home” (00:04:35)

Writing Trips, Collaboration Culture and Connor Smith (00:06:49)

Navigating Nashville and Mentorship from Other Artists (00:10:55)

Touring with Hardy and Signing a Publishing Deal (00:12:08)

Returning to Georgia Venues and Career Milestones (00:17:44)

Balancing Faith, Marriage, and the Demands of Touring (00:21:11)

Advice for Young Musicians and Staying Authentic (00:24:55)

Deer Stories, Burned Tractor, and Taxidermy Tales (00:30:23)

Reddit Thread Rumors (00:33:43)

TJ Callaway is the Founder and CEO of Onward Reserve, a lifestyle brand created with a deep appreciation for life's authentic moments, high regard for quality products and the spirit of sporting traditions.

Dylan Marlowe's Website

Dylan Marlowe on Instagram

Former NFL Star Mohamed Massaquoi Jan 21, 2025

Show notes

In this episode of Unreserved, TJ is joined by former NFL player and Georgia Bulldogs star Mohamed Massaquoi to discuss his journey through football, life-changing challenges, and personal growth. Mohamed shares stories from his college and NFL career, reflecting on pivotal moments, rivalries, and lessons learned on and off the field. He opens up about his 2017 ATV accident, which resulted in the loss of his hand, and how it transformed his perspective, leading him to a new path of coaching and motivational speaking. Through resilience and adaptability, Mohamed reveals how sports and business share parallels in teamwork, strategy, and seizing opportunities.

Mohamed’s Early Life and Football Beginnings (00:01:18)

Transitioning to College Football at Georgia (00:02:32)

Coach Mark Richt and Program Evolution (00:06:13)

NFL Draft and Playing for the Cleveland Browns (00:08:16)

The Intensity of SEC vs. NFL Rivalries (00:11:17)

Mohamed’s 2017 ATV Accident and Recovery (00:35:13)

Life After Football: Coaching and Motivational Speaking (00:37:17)

Lessons for Athletes: Hard Work and Long-Term Vision (00:37:58)

Seizing Opportunities and Overcoming Setbacks (00:41:11)

Closing Reflections and Advice for the Future (00:42:48)

Comedian Heather McMahan and Her Husband, Jeff Daniels Jan 07, 2025

Show notes

Unreserved kicks off 2025 with comedian Heather McMahan and her husband, Jeff Daniels, about Heather's journey from performing in basements to selling out Radio City Music Hall. Heather reflects on her comedic roots, the challenges of breaking into the entertainment industry, and how her authenticity on social media helped skyrocket her career. The couple shares stories about their relationship, the dynamics of living with Heather’s mother, and the joys and chaos of touring.

Heather and Jeff’s Story (00:01:16)
Heather’s Early Comedy Days (00:02:47)
Moving to LA and Starting Over (00:04:57)
Breaking Through on Social Media (00:08:19)
Lessons from Touring and Standup (00:12:51)
Balancing Work, Mental Health, and Creativity (00:15:24)
Jeff’s Role in Heather’s Journey (00:18:14)
Vision Boards and Long-Term Goals (00:28:47)
Living with Robin: Family Dynamics (00:44:48)
Travel Tales and Dream Destinations (00:53:09)

Heather McMahan on Instagram

Heather's website

Jamie Shepherd from Shepherd Center Dec 10, 2024

Show notes

Jamie Shepherd joins Unreserved to discuss the inspiring story behind the Shepherd Center, one of the nation’s leading rehabilitation hospitals. Jamie shares how his father’s life-changing spinal cord injury sparked the creation of this transformative facility and reflects on the center’s mission to provide world-class care for patients with brain and spinal cord injuries. From community-driven programs like recreational therapy to groundbreaking research and support for military veterans, the Shepherd Center’s impact is truly life-changing. Jamie also offers insights into the family’s dedication to fostering hope and empowering patients to rebuild their lives. This conversation is a heartfelt testament to resilience, innovation, and the power of community.

Introduction (00:00:00)
The Founding of the Shepherd Center (00:01:07)
James Shepherd's Accident and Recovery (00:02:47)
The Early Days of Building the Shepherd Center (00:06:13)
Community Involvement and Volunteer Programs (00:16:14)
Recreational Therapy and Life Reintegration (00:22:54)
Shepherd Center’s National Reach and Housing Developments (00:28:34)
The SHARE Military Initiative (00:41:29)
Mental Health and Building Hope for Patients (00:43:12)
Shepherd Center's Research and Innovation Programs (00:45:54)
Inspiring Patient Stories and Outcomes (00:53:23)
Closing Remarks and Getting Involved (56:03)

More information on the Shepherd Center and their incredible work can be found here.

Legendary Sports Broadcaster Verne Lundquist Nov 26, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Unreserved, TJ interviews legendary sports broadcaster Verne Lundquist. Verne reflects on his storied 50-year career covering iconic moments in college football, golf, and the Olympics, sharing behind-the-scenes stories of historic calls like Jack Nicklaus at the Masters and the 2013 Iron Bowl. They also explore Verne’s deep connection to the Masters, his love for classical music, and life in Steamboat Springs, Colorado. Filled with humor, wisdom, and candid insights, this conversation captures the essence of a broadcasting icon.

Early Life and Career Beginnings (00:03:02)
Breaking into Sports Broadcasting (00:09:30)
Transition to Network Television (00:13:13)
Covering Olympic Figure Skating and the 1994 Drama (00:17:14)
Iconic Moments in College Football (00:28:02)
The 2013 Iron Bowl Call (00:33:25)
Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods at the Masters (00:41:44)
Augusta Memories and Traditions (00:57:42)
Life Advice and Mentorship (01:13:44)
The Impact of Social Media on Society (01:19:02)

Georgia Tech's Haynes King, Brett Seither, and Jackson Hawes Nov 12, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Unreserved, host TJ chats with Georgia Tech quarterback Haynes King, tight end Brett Seither, and tight end Jackson Hawes. The trio shares stories from their unique journeys transferring to Georgia Tech, insights into adapting to the program, and the camaraderie that fuels their team. They discuss the highs and lows of college football, reflect on their high school experiences, and touch on the differences between football cultures across regions. With light-hearted banter on topics like their favorite Waffle House orders and hypothetical battles with sharks and alligators, this episode offers an entertaining and authentic glimpse into the lives of these student-athletes.

Chapters

Introduction (00:00:00)

Meet the Players (00:01:43)

Transitioning from SEC to Georgia Tech (00:08:22)

First King-to-Seither Touchdown (00:10:34)

The Ireland Game Experience (00:16:51)

Growing Up and College Football Favorites (00:23:58)

Georgia Tech Culture vs. Previous Teams (00:26:51)

Breaking Georgia Tech’s Touchdown Record (00:30:00)

Reflections on the First Half of the Season (00:37:43)

Coach Weinke’s Impact on the Team (00:40:49)

Life as a Graduate Transfer (00:42:12)

Life Goals Post-Football (00:57:11)

Learning to Golf (00:54:49)

Coca-Cola's Doug Ivester Oct 29, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of Unreserved, TJ leads a conversation with Doug Ivester, the former Chairman and CEO of Coca-Cola, to discuss his incredible career journey from a bag boy at Kroger to leading one of the world’s most iconic brands. Ivester shares insights into his work ethic, the pivotal moments that shaped his path, and his experience with the global expansion of Coca-Cola. They also explore his passion project, Deer Run Plantation, and its unique blend of agriculture and recreation. The episode concludes with Ivester’s reflections on legacy, long-term vision, and the importance of community involvement.

Chapters

Introduction (00:00:00)
Early Life in New Holland, Georgia (00:02:35)
Developing a Strong Work Ethic (00:03:50)
From Bag Boy to Cashier at Kroger (00:05:29)
The Global Expansion of Coca-Cola (00:12:04)
The Importance of the Bottling System (00:21:18)
Deer Run Plantation (00:25:52)
Marriage and Partnership with Kay (00:33:17)
Creating the Deer Run Fellows Program (00:37:13)
Investing in the Future of Hall County and UGA (00:45:03)
Advice for Young People (00:49:03)
Long-Term Success Strategies (00:52:00)

UGA's Warren Brinson and Dan Jackson Oct 15, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of "Unreserved," TJ Callaway sits down with two of Georgia's football stars, Warren Brinson and Dan Jackson, right after a big win over Auburn. They discuss the intensity of college football, leadership on the team, and the journey from high school to the national championship stage. Warren and Dan open up about what it takes to play at an elite level, the mental toughness needed to overcome injuries, and the camaraderie that fuels their success. With stories from the field and insights into their personal lives, this episode offers a unique behind-the-scenes look at the heart of Georgia football.

00:00 - Introduction: Meet Warren Brinson and Dan Jackson

01:36 - Reflections on the Recent Game and NIL Impact

04:02 - Choosing Georgia: Recruitment Stories

07:32 - Life at IMG Academy: Transition and Experience

13:27 - Georgia's Defense Legacy: Building a Winning Mindset

17:18 - Overcoming Injuries: Mental and Physical Battles

20:08 - Turning Points in Football: Resilience in Action

28:35 - Community Impact: Giving Back with NIL Funds

32:00 - Building Character through Volunteering

37:20 - Memorable Moments on the Field: The Craziest Atmosphere

47:50 - Planning for Future Games: Texas and Beyond

56:00 - Behind the Scenes: Road Game Routines

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Masters Champion Tommy Aaron Oct 01, 2024

Show notes

In this episode of "Unreserved," host TJ Callaway takes us to Gainesville, Georgia, for an inspiring conversation with 1973 Masters champion, Tommy Aaron. From his self-taught beginnings to his remarkable journey through the world of golf, Tommy shares stories of perseverance, passion, and the unique challenges he faced as a young golfer without a local course. Listeners will hear behind-the-scenes anecdotes about his Masters win, the traditions of the Champions Dinner, and his reflections on how the game of golf has evolved. This episode offers a treasure trove of insights into the life of a true sports legend, filled with wisdom for both seasoned golfers and fans of the sport alike.

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