Big Stories

BYUtv and the University of Utah teamed up to tell the story of a man whose life was shaped by people who saw past his mistakes. From a mugshot to a mission for The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, to the NFL, his life proves that one act of love can change everything. Host Cleon Wall sits down with director Matt Hodgson and producer Dave Phillips Jr. to dive into the story of former Ute and current Denver Broncos offensive tackle Garrett Bolles.

Before ASU lineman Jalen Klemm ever took the field for the Sun Devils, a mysterious medical emergency left him hospitalized and fighting for answers. Host Cleon Wall sits down with BYUtv producer Brandon Crow to explore Jalen's remarkable journey after suffering a stroke, the people who rallied around him, and the faith that fueled his return to football.

Most athletes spend a lifetime searching for the perfect teammate. Former UCF Football standouts Shaquem and Shaquill Griffin found theirs at birth. Born with only one hand, Shaquem made it to the NFL, and his brother was by his side every step of the way. Host Cleon Wall sits down with BYUtv Big Stories producer Brandon Crow and director Zane O’Gwin to explore a story of faith, family, and the unbreakable bond between two brothers.

Before he was a Notre Dame champion, Chris Zorich was a kid whose entire world fit into a four-block stretch of Chicago’s South Side. Host Cleon Wall sits down with Brandon Crow and Zane O’Gwin to trace Zorich’s journey—from a single mom’s sacrifice to becoming one of college football's most fearsome competitors. Behind the legendary scowl and relentless grit was a heart that defied his tough exterior. Because true champions don't just reach the top—they remember where they started.

Growing up as the only girl in the wrestling room, Alli St. John had to show she belonged — wearing pink shoes, facing doubters, and constantly having to prove herself. That little girl became a two-time national champion, a Team USA wrestler, and an Olympic hopeful whose dream ended in the most painful way imaginable. But wrestling has a funny way of giving back what it takes away. BYUtv’s Brandon Crow and Tim Irwin sit down to trace Alli’s story and the unexpected journey that eventually led her to become the head coach of Iowa State’s first-ever women’s wrestling team.

When a tragic car accident left TCU equestrian Sydney Feager with catastrophic injuries, doctors gave her a grim diagnosis: she might never walk again—let alone ride a horse. But Sydney defied every expectation. In this episode, host Cleon Wall sits down with BYUtv producer Brandon Crow and director Zane O'Gwin to unpack a story that goes far beyond survival. Discover how faith, relentless determination, and an unwavering community fuelled a miraculous comeback that transformed not just Sydney's life, but everyone around her.

Host Cleon Wall will be back next week with more inspiring and uplifting tales from around the Big 12 conference. But this week, we are featuring one of BYUradio's other great podcasts, Top of Mind with Julie Rose. In this episode, Julie explores whether sports fandom is good for America. The episode takes a closer look at why we become so invested in sports and what that fandom can mean for our relationships, our communities, and even the way we see ourselves.

What does it take to turn tragedy into purpose? Host Cleon Wall, producer Brandon Crow, and director Zane O'Gwin dive into the inspiring story of former Colorado State offensive lineman Zack Golditch. From surviving the Aurora theater shooting to protecting his community as a firefighter and helping children through his foundation, Golditch has built a life defined by service and resilience. The team discusses his reluctance to step into the spotlight and the lessons his journey teaches about courage, leadership, and becoming the hero of your own story.

Before he became a seven-time Pro Bowl linebacker, Lance Briggs was the smallest kid on his team—and terrified of contact. In this episode, host Cleon Wall, producer Brandon Crow, and director Zane O'Gwin trace the former Arizona Wildcat's evolution on and off the field. From his passion for comic books and youth coaching to a graphic novel inspired by his childhood, candid stories from Lance, his mom, and former teammates reveal an NFL legend who never forgot his roots.

Season 4 of The Big Stories Podcast begins with the incredible rise of the Utah Tech pickleball team and how they put people before pickleball. Host Cleon Wall is joined by producer Ben Bagley and director Travis Moore to explore BYUtv's Big Story on the Trailblazer team that transformed from a campus social club into one of the country's most dominant collegiate programs. Beyond the wins, this episode highlights the culture built by coach Chloe Butterfield and the life-changing friendships that helped players like Mary Monson overcome personal challenges and find a sense of family.