18 APR 2024 · Brian Smith has been the architect of the Missouri wrestling program. On the latest episode of the Go Earn It Podcast with host Shane Sparks, Smith talks about his philosophy on coaching and developing wrestlers, coming from Florida and wrestling at Michigan State and how he's shaped Missouri into one of the top programs in the country.

11 APR 2024 · In this episode of the Go Earn It Podcast, host Shane Sparks sits down with David Carr, a five-time NCAA Division I All-American and two-time NCAA champion from Iowa State. The conversation delves into the intense rivalry between Carr and fellow wrestler Keegan O'Toole, which has captivated audiences with its fierce competition and strategic maneuvers (0:00). Carr opens up about dealing with disappointment in wrestling and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset despite setbacks, drawing on personal experiences and insights from literature to build mental toughness (5:15). Reflecting on his journey starting wrestling at the age of 5, Carr emphasizes the role of determination and hard work in his progression through the sport (17:48). Additionally, he shares the profound impact of his father's Olympic wrestling career on his own life and athletic pursuits (24:07). The discussion also touches on the influence of coaching and the factors that led Carr to choose his college (26:31). Throughout the episode, Carr underscores the significance of faith and perseverance in his life and career, highlighting the mental preparation and trust in God before high-stakes wrestling matches (15:16, 45:03). The conversation concludes with insights into the mindset of a football player during a game, as well as the strategies and emotions involved in wrestling matches (48:11, 51:19). Sparks wraps up the episode by thanking David Carr for sharing his experiences and insights, inviting listeners to tune in next time for more discussions on wrestling, sportsmanship, and personal growth on the Go Earn It Podcast.

5 APR 2024 · Shane Sparks catches up with three-time All-American and two-time NCAA Division I champion Matt McDonough from Iowa. Sparks talks with McDonough about his career at Iowa and how he almost ended up as a Northwestern Wildcat. 

28 MAR 2024 · On Episode 18 of the Go Earn It Podcast, Shane Sparks delves into the wrestling journey of four-time All-American Nick Simmons, exploring his illustrious career as an athlete at Michigan State, his time on the U.S. World Team and a college and club coach. From his early days to becoming a three-time Big Ten champion, Simmons shares his insights on wrestling techniques, mental toughness, and his coaching philosophy. Timestamps Wrestling Career and Memories with Nick Simmons (0:00) College Wrestling Career and Mentality (6:02) Wrestling Techniques and Favorite Wrestlers (13:07) Wrestling Strategies and Overcoming Setbacks (17:02) Mental Toughness in Wrestling After Devastating Losses (22:30) Wrestling Strategies and Personal Growth (31:54) Coaching Philosophy, and Advice for Young Wrestlers (38:36) Double Knee Pads (42:58) Tune in to The Go Earn It Podcast for more episodes featuring the stories and insights from wrestling's most influential figures!

15 MAR 2024 · Shane Sparks sits down with Robert Kokesh, a standout wrestler from the University of Nebraska, to discuss his journey from South Dakota to becoming a three-time All-American. Kokesh shares insights into his wrestling career, the influence of his coaches, and the lessons learned along the way. Timestamps Wrestling, Sports, and Personal Background (0:02) Toughness, Resilience, and Wrestling (3:33) High School Wrestling Experiences and Coaching (6:26) College Wrestling Recruitment and Early Conversations with Coach Mark Manning (9:45) College Wrestling, Training, and Competition (12:41) Wrestling Strategies and Mindset (19:12) The Difficulty of Winning a Big Ten Wrestling Title (22:07) College Wrestling Success and Humility (24:55) High School Wrestling and Personal Growth (27:59) Wrestling Preparation and Music Choices (37:14) Wrestling, Perseverance, and Regret (39:58) Wrestling Career, Leadership, and Mentorship (43:19) A Wrestling Match with a Dramatic Finish (50:45) Wrestling Discipline and Lifestyle (53:26) Impact of Wrestling Coach on Son's Life (55:33) Wrestling, Parenting, and Personal Heroes (58:59)

6 MAR 2024 · Shane Sparks welcomes Cole Konrad, a wrestling legend from the University of Minnesota and an undefeated Bellator champion in MMA. Konrad discusses his journey from being a top high school heavyweight to achieving collegiate wrestling glory and making a mark in the MMA world. Timestamps College Sports Achievements with a Former Athlete (0:02) Wrestling Success, Motivation, and Dedication (1:01) High School Wrestling, College Recruitment, and Career Goals (6:47) College Wrestling, Commitment, and Focus with J Robinson (11:39) Impact of High School Wrestling Coach and Teammates on Personal Growth (16:48) Wrestling, Motivation, and Rivalry (31:25) Wrestling Career, Personal Preferences, and Life Goals (54:36)

29 FEB 2024 · Shane Sparks sits down with Matt Valenti, a distinguished figure in collegiate wrestling and athletics administration. Valenti shares insights from his journey as a multi-sport athlete in high school to becoming a two-time NCAA wrestling champion for the University of Pennsylvania. He’s now working at his alma mater as a Senior Associate AD for Student-Athlete Leadership and Development. The conversation covers the importance of family support, the challenges and triumphs of his wrestling career, and his commitment to supporting student athletes' mental health. Timestamps The Benefits of Multi-Sport Participation and Family Support in Wrestling (0:02) High School Wrestling Experiences and College Aspirations (3:42) Wrestling Career, College Recruitment, and Early Days at Penn (6:09) Wrestling Matches and Personal Achievements (12:44) Wrestling, Losing First Round, and Bouncing Back (15:20) Mental Health and Support for Student Athletes (23:22) Wrestling Mindset and Technique with NCAA Champion (25:55) Wrestling Championships and Future of the Sport (35:32) Dual Meet Championships in Wrestling (41:06) Wrestling Losses, Legacy, and Coaching Impact (44:38)

15 FEB 2024 · Join Shane Sparks as he delves into the inspiring journey of Anthony Cassar, from his singular New Jersey state championship to clinching the NCAA heavyweight title with Penn State. Cassar shares his transition into MMA, the mental and physical preparation that propelled him to success, and the lessons learned from setbacks. Timestamps Passion, Grit, and Perseverance in Wrestling and MMA (0:02) Career, College Choice, and Overcoming Setbacks (4:32) Wrestling Mindset and Preparation (11:16) Techniques and the Mental Game (15:59) Wrestling and MMA Training and Coaching (21:19) Using Losses for Personal Growth (26:06) Wrestling, Personal Goals, and Faith (38:59)

7 FEB 2024 · Shane Sparks sits down with wrestling legend Tommy Rowlands, discussing his illustrious career from high school dominance to international competition. They delve into Rowlands' rivalry with Steve Mocco, his Olympic journey, and the lessons he's learned along the way. Timestamps Wrestling Career with Two-Time State Champion Tommy Rowlands (0:02) Wrestling Career, High School State Titles, and College Recruitment (0:54) Wrestling Career, Beliefs, and Mentors (4:48) Overcoming Setbacks and Nerves in Wrestling Career (11:41) A Fierce Wrestling Rivalry and Its Impact (18:35) Olympic Wrestling Journey and Lessons Learned (24:28) Wrestling, Coaching, and Personal Growth (29:19) Wrestling Techniques, Coaching Decisions, and Personal Growth (31:39) Wrestling Strategies and Passion for the Sport (36:59) Wrestling, Favorite Things, and Personal Stories (41:26) Life-Changing Moments and Personal Heroes (46:17)

24 JAN 2024 · In this episode, Shane Sparks welcomes Doug Schwab, a three-time All-American, national champion at Iowa, 2008 Olympian, and the head coach at the University of Northern Iowa. Schwab shares his insights on wrestling, coaching, and life, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, discipline, and the impact of great mentors.Key Points Discussed - Schwab's Wrestling Journey: From his early experiences in the sport to becoming a national champion and Olympian. - Coaching Philosophy: Schwab discusses his approach to coaching, focusing on personal growth, discipline, and the long-term impact on athletes. - Influences and Mentors: The significant impact of coaches like Dan Gable on Schwab's career and coaching style. - Wrestling and Life Lessons: Schwab reflects on the parallels between wrestling and life, emphasizing the importance of persistence, learning from setbacks, and personal development. - Team Dynamics and Leadership: Insights into building a successful team culture and the role of leadership in wrestling. - Personal Reflections: Schwab shares personal stories, including his family's influence, his approach to overcoming challenges, and his perspective on success.