End of year wrap, we recap the biggest sports story of 2025, DK Metcalf consequences, sports gambling impact, discipline, sacrifice vs suffering, legacy, sharing vulnerability and fears of parenting and a wife's last wishes for a casket pass.

"Don't confuse sacrifice and discipline with suffering." Ryan Clark Where did the time go? 2025 is wrapping up as we get ready to embrace the new endeavors, challenges and our biggest pivots that lie ahead in 2026! Ryan, Channing and Fred close out the year reflecting on the past 12 months of sports' biggest stories, headlines that dominated our feeds and personal milestones we embraced. We take account of our own self growth, missteps and ways we want to be better going forward knowing that perfection is an illusion, discipline and sacrifice are required for success and we take deep dive into the chaotic sports world. FBI takes on sports gambling, Luka trade to Dallas, Micah Parsons to Green Bay, Kansas City misses post season, Travis Kelce, Shedeur Sanders frenzy and the fall of Sean Diddy Combs...2025 had it's share of the unexpected and we discuss the impact of it all while the guys keep it real on the current state of the NFL. Channing says how the AFC North isn't what it used to be, Ryan says DK Metcalf incident could cost the Steelers their season and Fred weighs in on the possible end of the Chiefs dynasty. Pivoting to family, we talk about the vulnerable sides of parenting, from walking the line between wanting the best for our kids to pushing them too hard and how in the end happiness is the only true measure of how it turns out. Avoiding to set goals isn't always a bad thing while giving ourselves grace to make mistakes is how we've learned best. We also have a little fun talking about some viral fun scenarios and how we would respond to a wife's last wishes of a "casket pass". Pivot Family thank you for all the support, all the comments, the likes and follows- being on this journey with us means the world and we look forward to bringing more impactful conversations, stories and authentic content in 2026- Happy New Year, may it be filled with good health, family, memories and happiness. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“I was at the highest point of my career, signed a max contract, all NBA team, top 3 player in East to boom, hit rock bottom. And I got through it. Life isn’t going to be easy, there’s a lot of adversity and challenges, just don’t quit.” John Wall In one of the most authentic and powerful conversations of the year, John Wall opens up on pulling himself out of a dark place and the moment he chose life and light over a frightening alternative. He speaks from the heart as he shares his journey with Ryan, Fred and Channing, hoping to show people who struggle with mental health, there is always a way out. The conversation is raw, honest, and formidable as we talk everything from basketball to brotherhood to parenting to resilience to grief and manage to have lots of laughs throughout. From being the No. 1 overall pick to battling injuries, criticism, and personal loss, John talks the highs and lows of his journey in the league. He reflects on what the game has taught him about loyalty, mental toughness, and finding purpose beyond the spotlight. This episode goes deeper than stats and headlines—touching on growth, accountability, legacy, and what it really takes to keep pushing forward when the world counts you out. He explains his real reason behind retirement and responds to rumors, gives his perspective on today's game and highlights the players who he respects in NBA today. Full of Kentucky Wildcat pride, John describes the differences between young athletes of now and his era, NIL and what the future of college basketball looks like. In a more personal moment, John opens up about his mental health journey, the unseen battles he faced while navigating injuries and public scrutiny, and how losing his mother—his biggest supporter and anchor—changed his life forever. With vulnerability and strength, he shares how grief reshaped his perspective on basketball, manhood, and purpose. Wall also talks about his next chapter, including his new role with Amazon Prime, stepping into media and storytelling while redefining what success looks like beyond the court. With the guys navigating the conversation, the episode goes deep, diving into healing, identity, and learning to evolve when life forces a pivot. Pivot Family, don't forget to like, comment and hit the subscribe button! We love hearing from you and wish all of you a safe and happy holiday! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Three-man weave before the holidays as Ryan, Channing and Fred sit down to talk about all that’s been going on after a rollercoaster of a week in sports and social media from the Sherrone Moore news to the "we didn't see this coming" NFL moments to Kai Cenat's surprise message to offering a glimmer of hope this holiday season. The unfortunate season-ending injuries to the NFL’s top offensive player and defensive player bummed the sports world and now has changed the landscape of the league, with no Patrick Mahomes or Kansas City Chiefs in the post season, and the Packers loss of Micah Parsons altering their chance to play deep into January. The polarizing play by play of Shedeur Sanders is still captivating everyone whether you are completely against him or 100% with him, the debate is never ending. Who doesn't love Phillip Rivers? But the future Hall of Famer was 4 years removed from the game before returning to help the Colts save their season and Ryan has one perspective on his return while Channing has another. Sherrone Moore situation shook college sports but also affected the black community as the guys dive into the further implications from one's choices affecting a much larger group. Pivot Family! Let us know what you think, we love hearing from ya, so like, comment and hit the subscribe button! Appreciate you all! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“Trying to change that perception has been the most challenging thing post career…It was K-Mart the player and Kenyon the person. I didn’t let a lot of people know Kenyon the person.” Kenyon Martin Sr The former NBA All-Star, No. 1 overall pick, and one of the most relentless competitors of his era, Kenyon Martin Sr. sits down with The Pivot Podcast for a powerful, unfiltered conversation about basketball, family, and the evolution of manhood. From his rise out of Dallas to leading the New Jersey Nets to back-to-back NBA Finals, Kenyon reflects on the edge and intensity that defined his playing career—and how that same fire often shaped how he was perceived. Now, with greater perspective, he opens up about the difference between being seen as a player versus being understood as a man. He opens up about the power of his voice now, how he strives to speak from experience and how his biggest post-career challenge is being able to show the world the difference from K-Mart the player vs Kenyon the person.... The conversation takes on new depth as Kenyon discusses watching his son, Kenyon Martin Jr., carve out his own NBA journey. He speaks candidly about fatherhood, pride, restraint, and the responsibility of letting your child become their own person while still standing firm in loyalty and protection as a parent. Beyond the game, Kenyon shares lessons on accountability, family-first values, standing on principle, and how growth sometimes requires rewriting narratives—both public and personal. This episode is about legacy, love, and learning when to pivot without losing who you are. 🎙️ Raw. Reflective. Real. Kenyon Martin Sr.—beyond the jersey. Pivot Family, let us know what you think, don't forget to like, comment and hit the subscribe button, we appreciate you sticking with us! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“You gotta always believe. When you get knocked down off your feet, there’s just something that lights your fire and makes you keep getting up and fighting, just to keep going because you have a purpose.” Malcolm Butler 2x Super Bowl Champion  In this special episode of The Pivot Podcast live from Disney's Animal Kingdom, Malcolm Butler joins Ryan, Channing, and Fred for a deeply personal and behind-the-scenes story leading up to one of the most iconic moments in NFL history. Butler relives his “magical” Super Bowl XLIX interception vs Russell Wilson—the split-second decision that changed his life, secured the Patriots’ championship, and delivered him sports' famous words- "Im going to Disney World." Malcolm opens up about what it was like to go from undrafted rookie to national hero overnight, from working at Popeyes to signing with the Patriots to playing for Bill Belichick, He shares the mindset he developed on and off the field and explains how one can never truly being prepared for a singular moment but can always being ready to compete. He reveals life lessons from Tom Brady, Julian Edelman, Gronk and Danny Amendola that helped shape the man he is today. Although his storied NFL career started magical and yielded him two Super Bowl rings, Malcolm shares the hard times and reveals the emotions behind sitting out vs the Patriots loss to Eagles in SBLII and how the pain truly affected him. From the locker room interactions to the surreal whirlwind of fame, Malcolm shares powerful insights on trust, readiness, and believing in yourself when the world doubts you. Now in his post NFL life, Malcolm is passing on his experiences sharing that coaching high school football and being a father prove to be the most rewarding aspect of his life. Authentic, inspiring, and full of raw reflection—this conversation shows a side of Malcolm Butler you’ve never heard before. Tap in as The Pivot takes you right into the heart of the magic that makes us all believe anything worth having and working for is possible. Pivot Family, don't forget to like, comment and hit the subscribe button. Special thank you to our partners and friends at Disney World, Check out special offers and more information about visiting Walt Disney World here: http://di.sn/60037CGsf Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“I feel like no one believes in me and that’s my approach. I got the underdog mentality and that’s what I’ll have all my life.” Diego Pavia We headed to Nashville to sit with one of sports' biggest breakout stars who's improbable journey has landed him in the national spotlight and on this episode of The Pivot Podcast, we learn more about one of the most electrifying and unlikely stars in college football today—Diego Pavia. Once an undersized and overlooked kid grinding his way through JUCO ball, Pavia’s journey to the national spotlight is nothing short of remarkable as he just etched himself a part of history being named a 2025 Heisman Finalist. He opens up about how he went from fighting for reps at a junior college to becoming the quarterback who completely transformed the culture at Vanderbilt, leading the Commodores to relevance in the SEC and putting the program back on the map. Despite a season worthy of national recognition—and even securing a spot as a Heisman Trophy finalist—Pavia and Vandy were hit with a controversial College Football Playoff snub that sent shockwaves through the sport. Diego talks candidly about the fire that keeps him going, tracing it back to his upbringing, the sacrifices made by his mom, and the constant motivation he draws from his brother. It’s a story of grit, doubt, resilience, and belief—proof that heart can take you where pedigree can’t. From JUCO fields to SEC stadiums, from being overlooked to becoming a household name, Diego Pavia’s rise is one of the most compelling stories in college football—and he shares it all right here on The Pivot. Pivot Family, don't forget to like, comment and hit the subscribe button- we love hearing from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“If you get on cruise control and let everything start festering, it’s gonna find a way to get out somehow…everybody makes mistakes, I made one and I apologized for it and moved on, and I’m better for it now.” Desmond Bane In one of the most authentic and real conversations we've had on The Pivot Podcast, Ryan Clark, Fred Taylor, and Channing Crowder sit with Orlando Magic star Desmond Bane — a player whose journey is as powerful as his jump shot and deep roots that have grounded him since day one. With humility at his core in all he does, Bane's talents have often been overshadowed by his quiet demeanor but this off season his value was at the forefront, when Orlando traded for the young star solidifying his place as one of the top players in the NBA. Bane opens up about the early adversity that fueled his rise, the overlooked beginnings that pushed him to grind harder than the next guy, and the deep bond he built with Ja Morant in Memphis — a brotherhood formed through shared battles, growth, and the pressures of leading a young franchise. Now, after a blockbuster trade to Orlando, Bane talks candidly about embracing a new chapter and the responsibility of being a cornerstone for a young Magic squad. He opens up on how it took a little while trying to find his place in a new arena and gives context to the uncharacteristic game ejection early on, and shares what one thing clicked that has fueled his explosive run, including his back-to-back 37-point performances that set the tone for what’s becoming a breakout year in his new uniform and has his team 4-0 in the NBA Cup. Raised by his grandparents in the tight-knit community of Richmond, Indiana, Bane reflects on how small-town values, discipline, and love shaped the competitor and man he is today. It wasn't an easy path and the young star reveals his personal anxiety battles and how he redefined his path. He talks about the pain of loss and how his wife and kids helped him redefine purpose after grieving from so much change. And in a rare pivotal moment on the show, Desmond flips the conversation to Ryan, Channing and Fred, asking them how life is for them and how they have handled certain changes....truly a powerful part of the episode. Authentic, honest, and inspiring, this conversation captures Desmond Bane at a pivotal moment — reflecting on where he came from, honoring the people who raised him, and stepping boldly into the player he’s proving he can be. Pivot Family, please like, comment and hit the subscribe button, we love hearing from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Some of the best decisions I’ve made in my life have been rooted in faith where I couldn’t give a guarantee but I had faith and some of the worst decisions I’ve made in my life were rooted in fear.” Governor Wes Moore In this inspiring and wide-ranging conversation, Maryland Governor Wes Moore joins The Pivot Podcast to discuss leadership, purpose, and the personal journey that shaped his historic path to the governor’s office. Moore opens up to Ryan, Channing and Fred about his upbringing, his time in the military, and the pivotal moments that pushed him toward public service. He reflects on the challenges of leading a state during times of rapid change, the responsibilities of being Maryland’s first Black governor, and his commitment to expanding opportunity for all communities. Going in-depth, Moore shares the story behind writing his best-selling novel shaped how he views the world, based on the experience of 2 men with the same name who lived two different fates: one ended up doing life in prison while the other was a road scholar who became Governor. A journey rooted in faith not fear, Moore shares the key choices he made over his lifetime to give him the courage and strength to emphasize service over self. Throughout the episode, Moore’s trademark energy and clarity shine as he talks about balancing ambition with humility, the importance of mentorship, and what it means to create lasting impact. He shares his inspiring love story with wife Dawn, raising a family in the public eye while emphasizing the values that built their marriage, the support they’ve given each other through demanding careers, and the joy and purpose he finds in being a husband and father. And of course we talk football! From Maryland sports to the Baltimore Ravens to the AFC North to the true spirit and rivalry of the Army Navy game. Whether you’re interested in politics, personal growth, or stories of resilience, this conversation offers a thoughtful look at one of the country’s most dynamic political leaders. Pivot Family, tap in, like, hit subscribe and comment, we love hearing from you! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“The most dangerous person is one who truly believes in himself..." Darren Woodson 3x Super Bowl Champion It's Thanksgiving week and we have a lot to be grateful for Pivot Family and can't celebrate this holiday without talking about gratitude, family and of course football. And when we talk Thanksgiving football- we have to talk Dallas Cowboys. In this episode of The Pivot Podcast, Cowboys star Darren Woodson joins Ryan, Channing, and Fred for a raw, unfiltered conversation that dives deep into the dynasty years in Dallas and the life lessons that shaped him on and off the field. Known as one of the toughest safeties to ever play the game, Woodson pulls back the curtain on what it was really like lining up alongside legends like Deion Sanders, Larry Allen, Michael Irvin. and Troy Aikman during one of the most iconic eras in NFL history. Woodson brings the locker room to life with stories of competing with Irvin’s relentless intensity, Aikman’s leadership standard, Deion’s unmatched swagger, and the brotherhood that held the team together through championship runs. He also shares his firsthand perspective on the infamous Leon Lett Thanksgiving game moment, revealing how it felt on the field, how the team reacted, and why that play became one of the most unforgettable—and teachable—moments in Cowboys history but also a defining moment of who Jimmy Johnson is not just as a coach but a man. He speaks candidly of Jerry Jones and shares insight that we don't see as we often criticize and publicize the way he has built one of the most profound sports organizations. Beyond the highlights and headlines, Woodson opens up about identity, transitions, fatherhood, and building a purpose-driven life after football. From the mental toughness learned on the gridiron to the vulnerability required in the next chapters of his life, this episode shows Darren Woodson as more than a three-time Super Bowl champion—he’s a leader still evolving. Authentic, emotional, and full of championship-level storytelling, this conversation is a must-listen for fans of the game and anyone striving to redefine themselves beyond their greatest successes. It’s a masterclass in resilience and reinvention from one of the league’s all-time great competitors. Have a safe and happy holiday season from our Pivot family to yours, please take a moment to like, comment and hit the subscribe button, we are extremely grateful for your support. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

“I think you have to have a big ego in business and in sports but I use mine to want to protect myself from failure. Ego makes me not want to fail, it’s a motivator, my ego doesn’t want me to be laughed at or labeled a failure.” Zak Brown CEO of McLaren Racing The 2025 F1 season is winding down with three races left to go and McLaren has already won its 2nd Consecutive Constructors’ Championship with the chance for their drivers to finish 1st and 2nd. At the helm of all this success is CEO Zak Brown, a high school dropout from California that pursued his passion for motor sports and turned around McLaren Racing.  On this episode of The Pivot Podcast, hosts Ryan Clark, Fred Taylor, and Channing Crowder sit down with  Zak Brown for an unfiltered conversation on leadership, risk-taking, and the relentless pursuit of speed—both on and off the track. Zak pulls back the curtain on what it really takes to transform one of the most iconic organizations in motorsport, from rebuilding McLaren’s Formula 1 program to cultivating a culture where innovation thrives, no blame is placed and a team first mantra. He talks candidly about navigating high-pressure decisions, the realities of competing at the sport’s highest level, and how he balances business strategy with his pure passion for racing. The conversation amps up as Zak talks about Lando Norris and Oscar Piastri’s fierce but healthy internal rivalry, explaining how their push to beat each other is exactly what drives the team closer to the front of the grid. With only a few races left, McLaren is eyeing a 1st, 2nd finish for the 2025 season, hoping to prove doubters wrong with a drama-free relationship between his two drivers that sit atop the sport- a no favoritism, no fighting approach. From the dynamics inside the garage to the strategic vision for the future, Zak gives rare insight into what it takes to manage two hungry, elite-level drivers chasing the same trophy. Zak dives into the inspiration behind his new book, sharing the lessons, setbacks, and bold decisions that shaped his journey from young racing enthusiast to the executive steering one of motorsport’s most iconic teams. He reveals the mindset shifts that fueled McLaren’s resurgence and why embracing risk is often the only real path forward. From bold driver signings to the future of electric racing and what winning means in today’s F1 landscape, this episode offers a rare look at the mindset of a global sports executive who isn’t afraid to bet big. Whether you're a Formula 1 fanatic, a business leader, or someone inspired by reinvention, Zak Brown’s journey shows exactly what it means to pivot with conviction. Pivot Family, don't forget too comment, like and hit subscribe! A special thanks to our partners at Jack Daniels for sponsoring this conversation and inviting us to be apart of their F1 partnership with McLaren, Las Vegas has been exciting and we wish the best of luck to Lando and Oscar down the finish! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices