Inside the Headset with the AFCA

This week on Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we sit down with CJ Nightingale, the head coach at Belhaven University. Coach Nightingale discusses how his childhood shaped his coaching philosophy, details the key steps in his development as a coach, and reflects on his experience as a member of the 2022 AFCA 35 Under 35 class. In this episode, Coach Nightingale shares: • The moment he knew he wanted to coach • Lessons learned early in his career • The transition from high school to college coaching • His time building the Indiana Wesleyan program • Establishing a defensive culture at Wheaton • The decision to take on the head coaching role at Belhaven • Insights from the AFCA 35 Under 35 program Follow Coach Nightingale: @Coach_CDN2 Follow Belhaven Football: @BelhavenFB 📌 Subscribe for weekly conversations with coaches at every level of football. 🔗 https://linktr.ee/insidetheheadset

On this week's episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we sit down with Brett Ekkens, the head coach at Tiffin University. Coach Ekkens shares his journey from player to coach, how adopting a no task is too small mindset shaped his career, and the lessons he learned on the way to becoming a head coach. He also discusses staff building, taking ownership at every stage of the profession, and the leadership habits that drive success inside the Tiffin program. This is a valuable conversation for coaches at every level who are striving to grow, lead, and elevate their teams. Follow Coach Ekkens and Tiffin Football: @Coach_Ekkens • @TiffinFootball Stay connected with Inside the Headset: New episodes drop every week. Subscribe, rate, and review to help more coaches find the show. All links: https://linktr.ee/insidetheheadset

  In this episode, we're joined by Lennx Brown, wide receiver at Morningside University and a proud member of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. A standout on the field, Lennx has helped guide the Mustangs to a conference championship and a national semifinal run, earning All-Conference honors for his leadership and consistency. Off the field, Lennx's commitment to serving others sets him apart. He has participated in mission work across Louisiana, Cuba, Uganda, and Honduras, while also supporting his local community through tornado relief and youth mentorship. Much of his passion for service is inspired by the memory of his sister, Merzedes, whose legacy continues through the Merzedes Hard Memorial Fund, created by Lennx and his family to support families in need and fund meaningful community projects. This conversation dives into Lennx's journey of resilience, purpose, and impact, and how he uses his platform to honor others and bring lasting change. Follow Morningside Football: @msidefootball

This week, we're spotlighting Dylan Wheeler, a standout wide receiver at Saint John's University and a member of the 2025 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. Dylan discusses his journey as one of Division III's top receivers and how his commitment to service has shaped his life on and off the field. Last season, Dylan recorded 21 touchdowns and over 1,100 receiving yards, establishing himself as a leader for the Johnnies. Off the field, he has raised more than $25,000 for Folds of Honor, led diversity and inclusion efforts as Saint John's SAAC President, and helped generate $35,000 to provide nearly 100,000 meals for families in need. His service also includes mission work in the Bahamas and volunteer efforts with Special Olympics and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital. Dylan shares how faith, leadership, and a desire to serve motivate him to make a lasting impact far beyond the game of football. Follow Saint John's Football: @saintjohnsfootball

On this week's episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we're joined by Greg Holsworth, Head Coach at Henderson State University. Coach Holsworth discusses how he got his start in coaching, the lessons learned from balancing multiple roles early in his career, and the mindset it takes to stay consistent and build a winning culture. He also reflects on leadership, self-evaluation, and his experience in the 2025 AFCA 35 Under 35 program. Key Takeaways: How Coach Holsworth broke into the coaching profession Lessons from early challenges and opportunities Building and maintaining a successful team culture The importance of self-reflection and growth Insights from the AFCA 35 Under 35 class Episode Highlights: 1:13 – When did you know you wanted to be a coach? 5:00 – Starting your career at Occidental College 10:43 – Balancing high-school and college coaching 18:40 – Graduate assistant experience at Wyoming 27:20 – Coaching influences and leadership style 40:00 – Special Teams philosophy as a head coach 49:10 – Creating a defensive identity 54:30 – AFCA 35 Under 35 experience Follow Coach Holsworth and Henderson State Football: @Coach_Hols | @ReddiesFB 📍 Listen & Subscribe: 🎧 Spotify | Apple Podcasts | Google Podcasts | YouTube 🔗 https://linktr.ee/insidetheheadset 💬 Join the Conversation: Follow @WeAreAFCA

Duke University cornerback Chandler Rivers joins the show to share how leadership, teamwork, and service define his journey on and off the field. A First Team All-ACC selection and All-America honoree, Rivers has been a key part of Duke's nationally recognized defense. Off the field, he's equally committed to making a difference in his community. In his hometown of Beaumont, Texas, he founded the Chandler Rivers Youth Football Camp, providing free training and mentorship to local youth. His efforts also include organizing food drives, volunteering at Duke Children's Hospital, mentoring students through the Emily K Center, and assisting those in need through outreach programs. Recognized as a member of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, Rivers continues to set an example for what it means to lead through character, commitment, and service.

On this week's episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we sit down with Richie Leonard IV, a standout offensive lineman for Florida State University and a proud member of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. Richie has made an incredible impact not only on the field but in the lives of those around him. In addition to being a leader for the Florida State Seminoles, he's deeply committed to giving back to his communities in both Tallahassee and his hometown. He founded the Richie H. Leonard IV Football Camp, a free event that brings together over 300 kids and families for a day of skill development, mentorship, and fun. His dedication to service extends far beyond football — from participating in a Fellowship of Christian Athletes mission trip to Argentina, to volunteering locally at elementary schools and Special Olympics events. Richie even supports his childhood AAU basketball team, purchasing shoes and equipment for players in need. Inspired by his mother's courageous battle with cancer, Richie is preparing to launch a care package initiative for cancer patients later this year. Through his actions, he continues to demonstrate what it means to use your platform for good — leading with gratitude and service both on and off the field. 🎙️ Key Topics Richie's journey at Florida State University Founding the Richie H. Leonard IV Football Camp The impact of faith, family, and mentorship His work with Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Special Olympics Launching a new initiative to support cancer patients What it means to be part of the AFCA Good Works Team

On this week's episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we're joined by Stanton Weber, the Special Teams Coordinator at the University of Toledo. Coach Weber shares his journey from Kansas State walk-on to Toledo coordinator, his approach to building elite special teams units, and how being named to the AFCA 2024 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute has shaped his growth as a coach and leader. In this conversation, Coach Weber discusses: 1:13 Introduction  1:44 When did you know you wanted to part of this profession?  3:09 What made you want to go down the CPA track originally?  5:25 What ultimately led to beginning your career as a graduate assistant at Kansas State?  12:48 How were you able to draw the line when transitioning from player to coach?  15:05 How did you know you were going to be able to stick around at Kansas State and be promoted to a special teams QC?  22:05 What would you name your 2-year chapter as the special teams QC at Kansas State?  27:45 Did you ever find yourself in tough conversations as a young coach?  33:55 How do you motivate guys to be motivated about special teams?  47:45 How transformational was your experience at South Carolina?  55:15 How did your early career prepare you for your interview to become the STC at Toledo?  59:30 What was your experience like as a member of the 2024 AFCA 35 under 35?  1:03:00 Conclusion  Follow Coach Weber and Toledo Football on social media: 📱 Twitter: @stantonweber | @ToledoFB Subscribe to Inside the Headset for weekly conversations with football coaches and leaders across all levels of the game. 🎧 Listen and follow here: linktr.ee/insidetheheadset

On this episode, we sit down with Owen Schuckert, senior kicker and punter at John Carroll University and a member of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. Owen shares how he's balanced athletic excellence, academic achievement, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. A 2024 OAC Special Teams Player of the Year and First Team All-OAC selection, Owen has also volunteered over 300 hours with Sparks Specialized Services, supporting developmentally disabled men through home care, transportation, and friendship. Off the field, Owen's leadership shines as he serves as President of the Pre-Physical Therapy and Occupational Therapy Club, Vice President of the Gift of Life Club, and a Student Ambassador on campus. His story is one of discipline, compassion, and purpose—a true example of what it means to be a Good Works Team honoree. 👉 Follow John Carroll Football on social media: @jcufootball 🎧 Discover more Good Works Team stories at AFCA.com

In this episode, we're joined by Josh Kattus, senior tight end for the University of Kentucky and member of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. On the field, Josh has earned a reputation as a tough, reliable playmaker—starting in 15 of 33 games and delivering clutch moments, including a game-winning touchdown against a top-10 Ole Miss team. Off the field, his leadership and heart for service shine even brighter. Josh volunteers weekly at the DanceBlue Kentucky Children's Hospital Hematology Oncology Clinic, supports families at the Ronald McDonald House, raises money for local causes through Dancing with the Lexington Stars, and promotes animal adoptions through the Scott County Humane Society. Listen as Josh shares how football has given him a platform to serve others, inspire his teammates, and make a lasting impact in the community.