https://iheart.com/podcast/101085199
We follow them on social media. We pay money to watch them play or coach. We check headlines for breaking news and rumors about them. 

Professional athletes and coaches are the best at what they do. They are also people. People with emotions, self-doubt, insecurities, family obligations and setbacks. They have to deal with tough times and dark moments just like we do.

Hosted by Susie Wargin, a 30+ year Radio & TV broadcaster and Emmy Award winning sportscaster, who sits down with some of the biggest names in Denver sports. Hall of Famers, Ring of Famers, Super Bowl winners (and losers) and many who have reinvented themselves in retirement. The conversations feature insightul upbringings, emotional and impactful stories as well as words of wisom on how to keep moving forward. 

Available wherever you listen to podcasts. Please follow, download, rate and review. For more information visit CTFRPodcast.com. To learn more about Susie's career as a Realtor (she would love to help you!), visit SusieWargin.com. Thank you for listening!]]>enSportsCopyright KOA 850 AM & 94.1 FMhttps://d3wo5wojvuv7l.cloudfront.net/t_rss_itunes_square_1400/images.spreaker.com/original/4798685668e0a66b8e6ddbfd625fa0fb.jpghttps://iheart.com/podcast/101085199Wed, 08 Jul 2026 01:43:00 +0000Susie WarginSusie Warginsusie@thefox.comThe Colorado Broadcaster Association's Best Radio Podcast in 2024!  We follow them on social media. We pay money to watch them play or coach. We check headlines for breaking news and rumors about them.  Professional athletes and coaches are the best...
We follow them on social media. We pay money to watch them play or coach. We check headlines for breaking news and rumors about them. 

Professional athletes and coaches are the best at what they do. They are also people. People with emotions, self-doubt, insecurities, family obligations and setbacks. They have to deal with tough times and dark moments just like we do.

Hosted by Susie Wargin, a 30+ year Radio & TV broadcaster and Emmy Award winning sportscaster, who sits down with some of the biggest names in Denver sports. Hall of Famers, Ring of Famers, Super Bowl winners (and losers) and many who have reinvented themselves in retirement. The conversations feature insightul upbringings, emotional and impactful stories as well as words of wisom on how to keep moving forward. 

Available wherever you listen to podcasts. Please follow, download, rate and review. For more information visit CTFRPodcast.com. To learn more about Susie's career as a Realtor (she would love to help you!), visit SusieWargin.com. Thank you for listening!]]>falseepisodichttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Jason Smith thought he was going to be the only “short” person in his family when he got to 5’10” in middle school and started at that same height his freshman year of high school. By the end of that school year, he was 6’6” and just kept growing. By the time he was done, he was 7 feet tall and had schools from throughout the country knocking on his door. He decided to stay in state and attend Colorado State University so his family could be close and drive to all his games (home and away).  

In 2007, Jason left CSU early and entered the draft. The 76’ers took him at #20 and Jason saw action in 76 games as a rookie. From there a journeyman career began with stops at many different teams including the Hornets, Knicks, Magic, Wizards, Bucks and Pelicans. Along with all the trades came a few injuries and many hours in the training room.  

Jason retired in 2019 and focused on being a father and husband as well as doing some media work with the Wizards. He’s also collecting accolades in retirement: in 2026, CSU inducted Jason into their Ring of Honor and his jersey hangs in the rafters at Moby Arena in Fort Collins.  

Listen to Jason’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. 

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/71721474Wed, 29 Apr 2026 02:13:02 +0000Susie WarginHe grew up in a small town in Colorado, stayed in state for college, was drafted 20th overall in 2007 and tripled the length of a typical NBA career by staying in the league for 12 years.   Jason Smith thought he was going to be the only “short”...
Jason Smith thought he was going to be the only “short” person in his family when he got to 5’10” in middle school and started at that same height his freshman year of high school. By the end of that school year, he was 6’6” and just kept growing. By the time he was done, he was 7 feet tall and had schools from throughout the country knocking on his door. He decided to stay in state and attend Colorado State University so his family could be close and drive to all his games (home and away).  

In 2007, Jason left CSU early and entered the draft. The 76’ers took him at #20 and Jason saw action in 76 games as a rookie. From there a journeyman career began with stops at many different teams including the Hornets, Knicks, Magic, Wizards, Bucks and Pelicans. Along with all the trades came a few injuries and many hours in the training room.  

Jason retired in 2019 and focused on being a father and husband as well as doing some media work with the Wizards. He’s also collecting accolades in retirement: in 2026, CSU inducted Jason into their Ring of Honor and his jersey hangs in the rafters at Moby Arena in Fort Collins.  

Listen to Jason’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. 

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2732falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Listen to Kapri's conversation with the host of Cut Traded Fired Retired, Susie Wargin. 

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/69635873Wed, 28 Jan 2026 04:26:17 +0000Susie WarginKapri Bibbs was raised by a single mom in a very large family which instilled his commitment to family and his faith. He relied on both to guide him through rough times as a kid and when his football talents began to turn heads. Kapri also realized...
Listen to Kapri's conversation with the host of Cut Traded Fired Retired, Susie Wargin. 

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3460falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
His NFL career didn't last very long, in fact on the field it was just a few seconds of a regular season game and then jumping around to a few teams. Ryan also played in NFL Europe before calling it quits and becoming a firefighter in Vail.  

Then the rest of his story began as a friend volunteered his name to be a contestant on a new show called the Bachelorette. He had no interest in being on a reality TV show but went to Los Angeles anyway. Turns out he was the last one standing and marrying Trista in a lavish made-for-TV wedding.

Today Ryan is a Denver firefighter, he and Trista are navigating raising two teenagers and are still getting pulled back into reality TV appearances here and there.   

Listen to Ryan’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. 

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68969208Wed, 10 Dec 2025 03:13:23 +0000Susie WarginRyan Sutter's name is usually connected with a reality TV show, but before the words "Trista and Ryan" became a household phrase, Ryan was a Vail firefighter who grew up in Fort Collins, played football at the University of Colorado as a walk on and...
His NFL career didn't last very long, in fact on the field it was just a few seconds of a regular season game and then jumping around to a few teams. Ryan also played in NFL Europe before calling it quits and becoming a firefighter in Vail.  

Then the rest of his story began as a friend volunteered his name to be a contestant on a new show called the Bachelorette. He had no interest in being on a reality TV show but went to Los Angeles anyway. Turns out he was the last one standing and marrying Trista in a lavish made-for-TV wedding.

Today Ryan is a Denver firefighter, he and Trista are navigating raising two teenagers and are still getting pulled back into reality TV appearances here and there.   

Listen to Ryan’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. 

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3030falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
During his time with the Spartans, he was drafted by the Avalanche and was a Hobey Baker Finalist his senior season. Shortly after his college career wrapped up in 2003, John-Michael was playing with the Avs affiliate, the Hershey Bears. A few months later, he was in an Avs uniform and scored his first NHL goal in October of 2003.  

He'd spend several years playing solid defense for the Avalanche, becoming a fan favorite and racking up points and goals along the way. Good times rarely last in pro sports however and in 2011, John-Michael was traded to Toronto. A few years later, he was traded again, this time to the Hurricanes… just minutes before he was set to play for the Maple Leafs in the Outdoor Winter Classic. He’d be traded one more time (Boston) before retiring in 2017.  

These days, John-Michael is back to being a fan favorite on the Avalanche broadcast team on Altitude Sports. He’s also a husband and girl dad to two daughters.  

Listen to John-Michael’s story and conversation with @susiewargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. Links to listen on your favorite podcast platforms in the @ctfrpodcast bio!

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/68531786Wed, 12 Nov 2025 04:58:00 +0000Susie Wargin14 years in any professional sport is an eternity, especially in the very physical National Hockey League. John-Michael Liles grew up in Indiana and by the time he was in high school, it was apparent that hockey was his sport. He played on some elite...
During his time with the Spartans, he was drafted by the Avalanche and was a Hobey Baker Finalist his senior season. Shortly after his college career wrapped up in 2003, John-Michael was playing with the Avs affiliate, the Hershey Bears. A few months later, he was in an Avs uniform and scored his first NHL goal in October of 2003.  

He'd spend several years playing solid defense for the Avalanche, becoming a fan favorite and racking up points and goals along the way. Good times rarely last in pro sports however and in 2011, John-Michael was traded to Toronto. A few years later, he was traded again, this time to the Hurricanes… just minutes before he was set to play for the Maple Leafs in the Outdoor Winter Classic. He’d be traded one more time (Boston) before retiring in 2017.  

These days, John-Michael is back to being a fan favorite on the Avalanche broadcast team on Altitude Sports. He’s also a husband and girl dad to two daughters.  

Listen to John-Michael’s story and conversation with @susiewargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. Links to listen on your favorite podcast platforms in the @ctfrpodcast bio!

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3121falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Montee’s true story was what was going on behind the scenes, out of camera and microphone shot. Montee was an alcoholic, until February of 2016 when the everything came to a head: a domestic violence arrest, jail and learning he was going to be a dad. Of course, it didn’t help matters that he watched a team he just played for the year before win Super Bowl 50 from his jail cell. Sobriety had to happen and it did. Since his lowest of lows that February, Montee has been building back up, working to be a good dad and helping others avoid the same mistakes he made. His story is about recovery. For anyone who has been affected with addiction, Montee’s story is a must listen.  

Listen to Montee’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67959632Wed, 01 Oct 2025 03:53:36 +0000Susie WarginMontee Ball’s story was supposed to be something like this: “Star running back and Heisman Trophy finalist out of Wisconsin goes on to break rushing records in the NFL with his favorite team growing up.” Instead, it was “Star running back and Heisman...
Montee’s true story was what was going on behind the scenes, out of camera and microphone shot. Montee was an alcoholic, until February of 2016 when the everything came to a head: a domestic violence arrest, jail and learning he was going to be a dad. Of course, it didn’t help matters that he watched a team he just played for the year before win Super Bowl 50 from his jail cell. Sobriety had to happen and it did. Since his lowest of lows that February, Montee has been building back up, working to be a good dad and helping others avoid the same mistakes he made. His story is about recovery. For anyone who has been affected with addiction, Montee’s story is a must listen.  

Listen to Montee’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2848false124fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
It didn’t take long for the kid from Indiana to get noticed by Division 1 schools. He made a few visits, including to Northwestern where Gary Barnett was the head coach. Coach Barnett was honest with him, and told him he wouldn’t play much. So, Bobby opted to attend Miami, Ohio where he played for two seasons.  

After realizing he wasn’t meant to be a Redhawk, Bobby came home and his high school coach encouraged him to go to a junior college. Fort Scott Junior College proved to be a springboard into another round of Division 1 offers including one to the University of Colorado…  to play for Coach Barnett. Bobby’s claim to fame as a Buff included a huge upset against Nebraska in 2001 (the “62-36” game) and unexpectedly beating Texas in the Big 12 Championship game.  

After college, Bobby spent time in the Arena League for a few years, then entered the real work where he’s been an insurance broker for over 20 years. He is also a girl dad and is a sideline reporter for the CU Buffs Radio Network.

Listen to Bobby’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67696724Wed, 10 Sep 2025 02:30:26 +0000Susie WarginBobby Pesavento entertained the idea of football once when he was in middle school. When he couldn’t up seed the coach’s quarterback son, he moved on to basketball. Then one day in high school, his football buddies asked him to throw some passes their...
It didn’t take long for the kid from Indiana to get noticed by Division 1 schools. He made a few visits, including to Northwestern where Gary Barnett was the head coach. Coach Barnett was honest with him, and told him he wouldn’t play much. So, Bobby opted to attend Miami, Ohio where he played for two seasons.  

After realizing he wasn’t meant to be a Redhawk, Bobby came home and his high school coach encouraged him to go to a junior college. Fort Scott Junior College proved to be a springboard into another round of Division 1 offers including one to the University of Colorado…  to play for Coach Barnett. Bobby’s claim to fame as a Buff included a huge upset against Nebraska in 2001 (the “62-36” game) and unexpectedly beating Texas in the Big 12 Championship game.  

After college, Bobby spent time in the Arena League for a few years, then entered the real work where he’s been an insurance broker for over 20 years. He is also a girl dad and is a sideline reporter for the CU Buffs Radio Network.

Listen to Bobby’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2627false123fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
The Rockies took him in the 5th round of the 2000 draft. He started out in the farm system, and he worked his way up to The Show. His MLB debut came in 2003 and in 2005 he won the starting job at 3rd base after spring training. He’d finish 4th in Rookie of the Year voting that season despite being sidelines for a bit with a hamstring injury.  

Garrett stayed with the Rockies for several more years, including the 2007 World Series. In 2009, he signed a one-year deal with Colorado, and his numbers began to decline. In 2010 he was a free agent and played for a short time with Baltimore and went to the Pirates camp in 2011. Baseball wasn’t the same and he retired.  

These days Garrett enjoys being behind the scenes as a husband, dad, coach and golfer with a 3 handicap. He also did his first podcast in 2025 (this one).  

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67449701Wed, 20 Aug 2025 02:15:55 +0000Susie WarginAfter batting .557 and setting a school record with 13 home runs his senior year of high school in California, Garrett Atkins was drafted by the New York Mets. He was also courted by several colleges including Oklahoma State, USC, Cal State,...
The Rockies took him in the 5th round of the 2000 draft. He started out in the farm system, and he worked his way up to The Show. His MLB debut came in 2003 and in 2005 he won the starting job at 3rd base after spring training. He’d finish 4th in Rookie of the Year voting that season despite being sidelines for a bit with a hamstring injury.  

Garrett stayed with the Rockies for several more years, including the 2007 World Series. In 2009, he signed a one-year deal with Colorado, and his numbers began to decline. In 2010 he was a free agent and played for a short time with Baltimore and went to the Pirates camp in 2011. Baseball wasn’t the same and he retired.  

These days Garrett enjoys being behind the scenes as a husband, dad, coach and golfer with a 3 handicap. He also did his first podcast in 2025 (this one).  

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2821false122fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
When Dan was very young, he moved from Florida to Minnesota where ponds are plentiful and eventually everyone laces up some ice skates. He was fast on ice and good at hockey but didn’t have a specialty. So, he became proficient in many aspects of the game and did whatever it took to make a team.  

In 1996, the Avalanche drafted him after being assured he would leave West Point, where he was attending college, playing hockey for fun and aspiring to be an FBI agent. Life went a different direction for sure with several years in the NHL, a Stanley Cup Championship with the Avs, many injuries and a few different teams.  

After he retired, Dan went straight into coaching for a few years, then found himself out of hockey to focus on his family and trying to find work outside of the rink. After some time with AT&T and as a stock broker, Dan got back into coaching, spending time in the NHL and AHL where he loves helping players find their potential.

Listen to Dan’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/67079260Tue, 22 Jul 2025 21:33:32 +0000Susie WarginHad he grown up where he was born, chances are Dan Hinote would not have experienced a decade-plus pro hockey career. Afterall, Florida isn’t really a hotbed for hockey players. Case in point: Dan became the first Florida born player to score a goal...
When Dan was very young, he moved from Florida to Minnesota where ponds are plentiful and eventually everyone laces up some ice skates. He was fast on ice and good at hockey but didn’t have a specialty. So, he became proficient in many aspects of the game and did whatever it took to make a team.  

In 1996, the Avalanche drafted him after being assured he would leave West Point, where he was attending college, playing hockey for fun and aspiring to be an FBI agent. Life went a different direction for sure with several years in the NHL, a Stanley Cup Championship with the Avs, many injuries and a few different teams.  

After he retired, Dan went straight into coaching for a few years, then found himself out of hockey to focus on his family and trying to find work outside of the rink. After some time with AT&T and as a stock broker, Dan got back into coaching, spending time in the NHL and AHL where he loves helping players find their potential.

Listen to Dan’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3829falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
After his 10-year career in Denver, the 7-time captain got into law enforcement. He became a DEA Special Agent with stops in Dallas, Washington DC, Houston and Afghanistan. He chased, and helped catch the baddest of the bad guys for 20 years.    

He was set to retire from the DEA and settle in Thailand with his wife. But a hernia he developed in Afghanistan brought him back to the states so he could consult with doctors he trusted. He called John Elway, who was the GM at the time, and asked if he could talk to the Broncos doctors. John said sure, but he also wanted to talk to Keith about something. That something was the VP of Security for the Broncos. A job Keith accepted and is still doing in 2025.  

Listen to Keith’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66734384Wed, 25 Jun 2025 03:18:11 +0000Susie WarginKeith Bishop chooses his words wisely: when he speaks, people listen. That came in handy during his decade career with the Broncos as an offensive lineman, especially when the Broncos were on the 2-yard line in Cleveland needing a 98 drive to tie the...
After his 10-year career in Denver, the 7-time captain got into law enforcement. He became a DEA Special Agent with stops in Dallas, Washington DC, Houston and Afghanistan. He chased, and helped catch the baddest of the bad guys for 20 years.    

He was set to retire from the DEA and settle in Thailand with his wife. But a hernia he developed in Afghanistan brought him back to the states so he could consult with doctors he trusted. He called John Elway, who was the GM at the time, and asked if he could talk to the Broncos doctors. John said sure, but he also wanted to talk to Keith about something. That something was the VP of Security for the Broncos. A job Keith accepted and is still doing in 2025.  

Listen to Keith’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3914falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
When Tyrone graduated from high school, two of his brothers were in jail and he was off to North Dakota State to play football. He helped the Bison win three National Championships during his four years and while he never thought he’d make it to the NFL, the Broncos took him with the 2nd to last pick in the 1987 NFL Draft.  

During his two stints with the Broncos, Tyrone was part of two losing Super Bowls (XXII and XXIV) and two winning Super Bowls (XXXII and XXXIII). Both stints were like different eras between coaches (Dan Reeves vs Mike Shanahan) and position (Cornerback vs Safety).  

When he retired, Tyrone was lost. He went to some bad places and in 2006 after he was arrested, he stood in front of the media and admitted he had a drug problem and needed to straighten up. It was his wake-up call and did he wake up. He finished his degree at North Dakota State, got his master’s in social work at Metro State University and just finished his PhD at CU Denver. Now Dr. Braxton works with kids throughout Denver with everything from addiction, behavior, substance abuse, and every other pitfall today’s youth can find. He’s been there and understands.  

Listen to Tyrone’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. 

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66305190Wed, 28 May 2025 02:17:49 +0000Susie WarginHad someone told a young Tyrone Braxton that one day he would be a two-time Super Bowl Champion and earn a PhD in his late 50’s, he would never have believed them. Had someone told him he’d get involved in alcohol, drugs, be arrested and almost lose...
When Tyrone graduated from high school, two of his brothers were in jail and he was off to North Dakota State to play football. He helped the Bison win three National Championships during his four years and while he never thought he’d make it to the NFL, the Broncos took him with the 2nd to last pick in the 1987 NFL Draft.  

During his two stints with the Broncos, Tyrone was part of two losing Super Bowls (XXII and XXIV) and two winning Super Bowls (XXXII and XXXIII). Both stints were like different eras between coaches (Dan Reeves vs Mike Shanahan) and position (Cornerback vs Safety).  

When he retired, Tyrone was lost. He went to some bad places and in 2006 after he was arrested, he stood in front of the media and admitted he had a drug problem and needed to straighten up. It was his wake-up call and did he wake up. He finished his degree at North Dakota State, got his master’s in social work at Metro State University and just finished his PhD at CU Denver. Now Dr. Braxton works with kids throughout Denver with everything from addiction, behavior, substance abuse, and every other pitfall today’s youth can find. He’s been there and understands.  

Listen to Tyrone’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. 

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2680falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Growing up in Lamar, Scott excelled in many sports including football, basketball and baseball. He decided to forgo college after the Astros drafted him 25th overall when he was just 18 years old. He worked his way up the ladder and in four years, made his major league debut at the age of 22. That same year, Scott was a starter, reliever and gave up a game winning home run in Game 3 of the NLDS. He also dealt with injuries early and often. In fact, over the next few years, he became familiar with the disabled list and was actually on the DL when he was told he was being traded to the Rockies.  

Coors Field was tough, as it is for most pitchers. He struggled with the thin air and more injuries but was named a starter to open the 2004 season. He was released the next month in May. From there, Scott had stints with multiple teams including Cleveland (twice), Kansas City, the White Sox, Phillies and the Twins along with many affiliates and independent teams.  

Eventually in 2014, Scott retired and made the Denver area a permanent home with his wife and two children. These days Scott travels about every other week working for the Pirates organization, mainly helping young players with their mental game. It’s a job he pretty much created and one that would have been very helpful to him when he was fighting to stay healthy and in the game.

Listen to Scott’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast anywhere you listen to podcasts. 



To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/66079706Wed, 14 May 2025 03:18:27 +0000Susie WarginHe was born and raised in Colorado, yet when Scott Elarton was told he was being traded to the Rockies from the team that drafted him while he was in high school, his first emotion was shock. The pitcher thought he would be an Astro for life. But as...
Growing up in Lamar, Scott excelled in many sports including football, basketball and baseball. He decided to forgo college after the Astros drafted him 25th overall when he was just 18 years old. He worked his way up the ladder and in four years, made his major league debut at the age of 22. That same year, Scott was a starter, reliever and gave up a game winning home run in Game 3 of the NLDS. He also dealt with injuries early and often. In fact, over the next few years, he became familiar with the disabled list and was actually on the DL when he was told he was being traded to the Rockies.  

Coors Field was tough, as it is for most pitchers. He struggled with the thin air and more injuries but was named a starter to open the 2004 season. He was released the next month in May. From there, Scott had stints with multiple teams including Cleveland (twice), Kansas City, the White Sox, Phillies and the Twins along with many affiliates and independent teams.  

Eventually in 2014, Scott retired and made the Denver area a permanent home with his wife and two children. These days Scott travels about every other week working for the Pirates organization, mainly helping young players with their mental game. It’s a job he pretty much created and one that would have been very helpful to him when he was fighting to stay healthy and in the game.

Listen to Scott’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast anywhere you listen to podcasts. 



To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2553falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65787847Tue, 29 Apr 2025 03:29:23 +0000Susie WarginEnjoy 14 stories from the NFL Draft Days of Von Miller, Louis Wright, Daniel Graham, Champ Bailey, Simon Fletcher, Steve Atwater, Terrell Davis, Rick Upchurch, Howard Griffith, Peyton Manning, Gary Kubiak, Steve Foley, Tyrone Braxon and Bubby Brister....
To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2300falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Kyle started skating in his home country of Canada when he was just a toddler. Junior hockey took the place of college, and the Redwings drafted him in 2003. Babcock was his coach then, which is why it was difficult for him not to treat Kyle like a rookie during the second go around.  

Kyle’s career took him from one coast to the other. He endured numerous injuries and over 20 concussions.  He also earned respect and lifelong friends everywhere he went whether it was the Redwings, Kings, Avs, Devils, Blue Jackets or the Wild. Hockey is family and he needed that family after he retired in 2019.   

In 2020, Kyle’s one year old son Axl was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Kyle was just starting to figure out who he was post-hockey and had to put that mental anguish aside to be a dad, husband and support his family. It was tough between Covid and moving short term to Philly for Axl’s surgery, but Axl came out cancer free. Then it was time to focus on Kyle.  

Kyle found a path to fulfillment by creating the Do Good Ranch and helping others who have experienced mental and physical trauma. The Do Good Ranch offers a stunning setting for healing, wellness and education into self-improvement and personal growth. The ranch opened in April of 2025 and is available for reservations and private retreats.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65588061Wed, 16 Apr 2025 03:13:28 +0000Susie WarginDefenseman can be onery. They are defensemen after all. Kyle Quincey was no exception and had his moments, however many were justified. Like the time he pinned a hockey stick between the eyes of Redwings head coach Mike Babcock and “requested” respect...
Kyle started skating in his home country of Canada when he was just a toddler. Junior hockey took the place of college, and the Redwings drafted him in 2003. Babcock was his coach then, which is why it was difficult for him not to treat Kyle like a rookie during the second go around.  

Kyle’s career took him from one coast to the other. He endured numerous injuries and over 20 concussions.  He also earned respect and lifelong friends everywhere he went whether it was the Redwings, Kings, Avs, Devils, Blue Jackets or the Wild. Hockey is family and he needed that family after he retired in 2019.   

In 2020, Kyle’s one year old son Axl was diagnosed with a brain tumor. Kyle was just starting to figure out who he was post-hockey and had to put that mental anguish aside to be a dad, husband and support his family. It was tough between Covid and moving short term to Philly for Axl’s surgery, but Axl came out cancer free. Then it was time to focus on Kyle.  

Kyle found a path to fulfillment by creating the Do Good Ranch and helping others who have experienced mental and physical trauma. The Do Good Ranch offers a stunning setting for healing, wellness and education into self-improvement and personal growth. The ranch opened in April of 2025 and is available for reservations and private retreats.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2612falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He became a captain and was All-Conference as a wide receiver and returner. He was also very active off the field, something that started in high school and carried into college. He chaired the CSU Athletic Advancement Committee and represented the Mountain West at the NCAA Leadership Conference.  

While he loved all the activities, Dallas also had a dream to play professionally. The Steelers brought him in as an undrafted free agent and he stayed for a few months until he was cut in training camp. The next year, he was cut just before training camp and reality set in: it was time to find a job.  

He dabbled in the mortgage industry and realized he missed sports. So he got on planning and event committees for the Orange Bowl, NBA All Star Game and the NCAA Basketball Tournament. Eventually he found himself working as the Director of Community Affairs for the Colorado Rockies, where he still works today, but is now part of human resources. Dallas is married and raising three athletically gifted daughters who have a tough time believing their dad was pretty special with the football.    

Listen to Dallas’ story and conversation with @susiewargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. Links to listen on your favorite podcast platforms in the @ctfrpodcast bio!

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/65118666Wed, 26 Mar 2025 02:23:25 +0000Susie WarginHe had no plans to play football in the same town where he grew up, in fact Dallas Davis fully planned to leave Fort Collins and become a Badger in Wisconsin. Then he got a visit from head coach Sonny Lubick and a couple other coaches who put a new...
He became a captain and was All-Conference as a wide receiver and returner. He was also very active off the field, something that started in high school and carried into college. He chaired the CSU Athletic Advancement Committee and represented the Mountain West at the NCAA Leadership Conference.  

While he loved all the activities, Dallas also had a dream to play professionally. The Steelers brought him in as an undrafted free agent and he stayed for a few months until he was cut in training camp. The next year, he was cut just before training camp and reality set in: it was time to find a job.  

He dabbled in the mortgage industry and realized he missed sports. So he got on planning and event committees for the Orange Bowl, NBA All Star Game and the NCAA Basketball Tournament. Eventually he found himself working as the Director of Community Affairs for the Colorado Rockies, where he still works today, but is now part of human resources. Dallas is married and raising three athletically gifted daughters who have a tough time believing their dad was pretty special with the football.    

Listen to Dallas’ story and conversation with @susiewargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. Links to listen on your favorite podcast platforms in the @ctfrpodcast bio!

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3352falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
What was normal for Rick: having a pond nearby and playing hockey. A lot of hockey. When he was 16, he left Canada and went to Seattle to live with a host family and started junior hockey. In 1997, the Colorado Avalanche, who had just moved from Quebec to Denver, selected Rick in the 3rd round of the NHL Entry Draft.  

He played with the Hershey Bears for a few years and eventually made it to Denver where his Avs debut came in the 2000-2001 season. He stuck around for another season in Denver and then was traded to the Penguins in 2002. From there the rollercoaster started between NHL teams, affiliates and a stint in Germany.  

After his time in Germany, and with two young girls at that point, Rick decided to retire. He and his wife made Denver their home, added a third girl and Rick went into the financial advisory industry. He enjoys his work, being a girl dad and staying involved with the Colorado Avalanche Alumni Association.  

Listen to Rick’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64703316Wed, 05 Mar 2025 00:07:23 +0000Susie WarginHe grew up on a horse ranch in a small town in Manitoba, Canada. Rick Berry thought it was perfectly normal that his family had some 200 pure bred Belgian horses and when those horses urinated, it was collected (by Rick and his brother) for the...
What was normal for Rick: having a pond nearby and playing hockey. A lot of hockey. When he was 16, he left Canada and went to Seattle to live with a host family and started junior hockey. In 1997, the Colorado Avalanche, who had just moved from Quebec to Denver, selected Rick in the 3rd round of the NHL Entry Draft.  

He played with the Hershey Bears for a few years and eventually made it to Denver where his Avs debut came in the 2000-2001 season. He stuck around for another season in Denver and then was traded to the Penguins in 2002. From there the rollercoaster started between NHL teams, affiliates and a stint in Germany.  

After his time in Germany, and with two young girls at that point, Rick decided to retire. He and his wife made Denver their home, added a third girl and Rick went into the financial advisory industry. He enjoys his work, being a girl dad and staying involved with the Colorado Avalanche Alumni Association.  

Listen to Rick’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2653falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
His college career at Belmont kept him close to home in Nashville. After college, he stayed in the south for many years as a middle school and high school coach and assistant coaching jobs at Middle Tennessee, Arkansas Little-Rock and Tennessee State. Then came his trek to Colorado where he started as an assistant and three years later, got his break as a head coach.  From 1996 to 2007, Ricardo had three 20-win seasons and took the Buffs to the postseason six times. He also landed a huge recruit in Chauncey Billups who would go on to be a #3 overall draft pick.  

Ricardo left CU on his own terms and continued to coach here and there, including a return to the state of Colorado when he was an assistant for Chauncey’s brother Rodney at the University of Denver. It seems Mr. Big Shot is never too far removed from Ricardo.  

That trend continues today as Ricardo is now the Executive Director of the Porter-Billups Leadership Academy, where he loves the challenge of raising money to help young people from underserved communities become future leaders.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64444674Wed, 19 Feb 2025 05:24:37 +0000Susie WarginHis biography is filled with basketball. What’s not in Ricardo Patton’s bio is his childhood which included being raised by his grandmother after his mom left him and his sister when he was just 9 months old. His father wasn’t present either, so...
His college career at Belmont kept him close to home in Nashville. After college, he stayed in the south for many years as a middle school and high school coach and assistant coaching jobs at Middle Tennessee, Arkansas Little-Rock and Tennessee State. Then came his trek to Colorado where he started as an assistant and three years later, got his break as a head coach.  From 1996 to 2007, Ricardo had three 20-win seasons and took the Buffs to the postseason six times. He also landed a huge recruit in Chauncey Billups who would go on to be a #3 overall draft pick.  

Ricardo left CU on his own terms and continued to coach here and there, including a return to the state of Colorado when he was an assistant for Chauncey’s brother Rodney at the University of Denver. It seems Mr. Big Shot is never too far removed from Ricardo.  

That trend continues today as Ricardo is now the Executive Director of the Porter-Billups Leadership Academy, where he loves the challenge of raising money to help young people from underserved communities become future leaders.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2426falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
It all changed when Charlie spent a summer in the Texas Collegiate League and got some advice from Texas Rangers Hall of Famer Rusty Greer. Charlie went into the TCL with a bit of a fib: he told them he could pitch, hit and play defense. Truth be told, he hadn’t hit or played in the field since high school. Regardless, he picked up a wood bat and began to make contact, a lot. He also started to play positions outside of pitcher and Rusty told him he should consider giving up pitching and heading to the outfield. The self-admitted hardheaded Charlie eventually agreed.  

He had fairly quick success with his newfound skills at Georgia Tech and got drafted by the Rockies. He worked his way up every level of the minors and finally made his MLB debut in June of 2011. Within a month Charlie had his first hit, RBI, home run and broke his foot, ending his season.  
He used his rehab time to finish his degree in finance and found a new appreciation for baseball and the grind. He’d be up and down from the minors to the Rockies for another couple years and then became a staple at Coors Field until his retirement in 2024. Which didn’t last long: in 2025, the Rockies named Charlie a Special Assistant to the General Manager.  

Listen to Charlie’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/64194972Tue, 04 Feb 2025 22:56:16 +0000Susie WarginCharlie Blackmon had no illusions of grandeur once he realized his days as a left-handed pitcher were numbered.  He’d been a pitcher in high school and junior college and figured when he transferred to Georgia Tech he’d ride his time out on the bench,...
It all changed when Charlie spent a summer in the Texas Collegiate League and got some advice from Texas Rangers Hall of Famer Rusty Greer. Charlie went into the TCL with a bit of a fib: he told them he could pitch, hit and play defense. Truth be told, he hadn’t hit or played in the field since high school. Regardless, he picked up a wood bat and began to make contact, a lot. He also started to play positions outside of pitcher and Rusty told him he should consider giving up pitching and heading to the outfield. The self-admitted hardheaded Charlie eventually agreed.  

He had fairly quick success with his newfound skills at Georgia Tech and got drafted by the Rockies. He worked his way up every level of the minors and finally made his MLB debut in June of 2011. Within a month Charlie had his first hit, RBI, home run and broke his foot, ending his season.  
He used his rehab time to finish his degree in finance and found a new appreciation for baseball and the grind. He’d be up and down from the minors to the Rockies for another couple years and then became a staple at Coors Field until his retirement in 2024. Which didn’t last long: in 2025, the Rockies named Charlie a Special Assistant to the General Manager.  

Listen to Charlie’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>1691falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Lisa was born in South Dakota and after being named a Parade All American as a senior, she had over four dozen schools recruiting her. She thrived her first two years under head coach Sox Walseth, however when Ceal Barry came in, the injury bug hit and life got tougher physically and mentally. After graduation, (the WNBA didn’t exist yet), Lisa went overseas to play professionally for 7 years and became a 5-time All Star.   

After retirement, Lisa returned to Boulder unsure of what to do with her life. She wanted to be back in athletics and after getting turned down for a few opportunities, she got a job with a rental car company. Eventually she did get back into the CU Athletic Department helping to plan events. These days she’s out of the department, but still very involved with former student athletes, as the Executive Director of the non-profit Buffs 4 Life.  

Listen to Lisa’s story and conversation with @susiewargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. Links to listen on your favorite podcast platforms in the @ctfrpodcast bio!

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63796567Wed, 22 Jan 2025 05:02:29 +0000Susie WarginIn 2025, Lisa Van Goor will finally be inducted into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame. A long overdue honor for the first player in the history of the University of Colorado (man or woman) to score 2000 points and snag 1000 rebounds in a career. She...
Lisa was born in South Dakota and after being named a Parade All American as a senior, she had over four dozen schools recruiting her. She thrived her first two years under head coach Sox Walseth, however when Ceal Barry came in, the injury bug hit and life got tougher physically and mentally. After graduation, (the WNBA didn’t exist yet), Lisa went overseas to play professionally for 7 years and became a 5-time All Star.   

After retirement, Lisa returned to Boulder unsure of what to do with her life. She wanted to be back in athletics and after getting turned down for a few opportunities, she got a job with a rental car company. Eventually she did get back into the CU Athletic Department helping to plan events. These days she’s out of the department, but still very involved with former student athletes, as the Executive Director of the non-profit Buffs 4 Life.  

Listen to Lisa’s story and conversation with @susiewargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. Links to listen on your favorite podcast platforms in the @ctfrpodcast bio!

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3272falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
After playing linebacker for his dad, who demanded a lot as the head coach at Skyline High School in Longmont, Gabe had his choice of many colleges to continue his playing career. It came down to Wyoming and Colorado State. He chose to be a Cowboy because of alumni in his family and most importantly, the coaches.  

During his time in Laramie, the staff switched Gabe from linebacker to defensive end. He made the transition look easier than it was because of his motor and non-stop hustle. In reality, it was difficult to learn a very different position and physically he was still more like a linebacker. Regardless, he had hopes of getting drafted in the NFL and while a few teams called during the draft, no one called his name or his agent. 

Unsure of what to do at that point, Gabe’s dad suggested taking a year off, working out and staying ready. So, he took a gap year before gap years were cool and eventually played indoor football with the Colorado Ice, then got his break with the Montreal Alouettes in the Canadian Football League. He would be named Montreal’s Rookie of the Year and go on to play for several years in the CFL between Montreal and the BC Lions. 

In retirement, Gabe is a busy guy: husband, father of two, owner of Different Breed Performance gym and a firefighter with the City of Thornton.  

Listen to Gabe’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. 



To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63607720Wed, 08 Jan 2025 02:15:39 +0000Susie WarginSometimes the road to professional football takes a non-traditional path. Colorado native Gabe Knapton knows that trail well. After playing linebacker for his dad, who demanded a lot as the head coach at Skyline High School in Longmont, Gabe had his...
After playing linebacker for his dad, who demanded a lot as the head coach at Skyline High School in Longmont, Gabe had his choice of many colleges to continue his playing career. It came down to Wyoming and Colorado State. He chose to be a Cowboy because of alumni in his family and most importantly, the coaches.  

During his time in Laramie, the staff switched Gabe from linebacker to defensive end. He made the transition look easier than it was because of his motor and non-stop hustle. In reality, it was difficult to learn a very different position and physically he was still more like a linebacker. Regardless, he had hopes of getting drafted in the NFL and while a few teams called during the draft, no one called his name or his agent. 

Unsure of what to do at that point, Gabe’s dad suggested taking a year off, working out and staying ready. So, he took a gap year before gap years were cool and eventually played indoor football with the Colorado Ice, then got his break with the Montreal Alouettes in the Canadian Football League. He would be named Montreal’s Rookie of the Year and go on to play for several years in the CFL between Montreal and the BC Lions. 

In retirement, Gabe is a busy guy: husband, father of two, owner of Different Breed Performance gym and a firefighter with the City of Thornton.  

Listen to Gabe’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. 



To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3148falsefullhttp://www.CRFTPodcast.com
He chose North Carolina State where he would become an All-American his senior year. An honorable feat by itself, but even more impressive considering he missed the year before recovering from multiple injuries sustained in a single car crash. Nate overcame a collapsed lung, separated shoulder, broken rib and a compound leg fracture.  

He was a 3rd round draft pick of the Broncos in 2011 and played in nearly every game his first three seasons. He started several games in 2014, until he was bit by the injury bug with a torn ACL. The Broncos went on to win the Super Bowl that year and did not sign Nate to a new contract in the off season.  

He signed a new deal with the Colts, but again found himself in the training room and after one year of his three-year deal, Nate was cut on the final day of training camp in 2016. Soon after, Nate decided he was at peace with his NFL career and walked away.  

Today, Nate is a director and manages 300 people at Anschutz Medical Center, is the Defensive Coordinator at Ponderosa High School and a proud girl dad to three little ladies.

Listen to Nate’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63367452Wed, 18 Dec 2024 05:12:52 +0000Susie WarginHe thought he would be a basketball player and never considered football until high school where he learned the game on his 1A high school team. First on offense, then moving to defense. His team was good, regularly beating larger schools and...
He chose North Carolina State where he would become an All-American his senior year. An honorable feat by itself, but even more impressive considering he missed the year before recovering from multiple injuries sustained in a single car crash. Nate overcame a collapsed lung, separated shoulder, broken rib and a compound leg fracture.  

He was a 3rd round draft pick of the Broncos in 2011 and played in nearly every game his first three seasons. He started several games in 2014, until he was bit by the injury bug with a torn ACL. The Broncos went on to win the Super Bowl that year and did not sign Nate to a new contract in the off season.  

He signed a new deal with the Colts, but again found himself in the training room and after one year of his three-year deal, Nate was cut on the final day of training camp in 2016. Soon after, Nate decided he was at peace with his NFL career and walked away.  

Today, Nate is a director and manages 300 people at Anschutz Medical Center, is the Defensive Coordinator at Ponderosa High School and a proud girl dad to three little ladies.

Listen to Nate’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2513false109fullhttp://www.CTRFPodcast.com
Kenn grew up in Las Vegas and was self-taught gymnastics in his backyard. After seeing the San Diego Chicken at a minor league baseball game, he instantly had a career goal. He became his high school’s mascot and did the same at two colleges. At Utah State, as a communications major, Kenn came to Denver during a summer to intern at the Rocky Mountain News. He decided to cold call the Nuggets and strike up a conversation about him being their mascot. The Nuggets didn’t have a mascot, but they listened to his spiel. They didn’t do anything right away, so Kenn kept calling.  Eventually he auditioned for Rocky and won the gig.  

His 30+ years as Rocky saw him become a fan favorite and an attraction for the Nuggets, especially during some very down seasons on the hardwood. He made countless appearances off the court, endured a few injuries (including breaking his back) and a life changing lesson after spending a weekend in jail.  

His retirement came after the Nuggets won their NBA championship and a transition to the new Rocky was set up for one of Kenn’s three sons. Drake Solomon held the role for a while until he had to step aside to rehab an injury. The Nuggets decided to go a different direction. Now Kenn is going in a different direction with lots of open doors and opportunities between public speaking, podcasting and writing a book.  

Listen to Kenn’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/63137891Wed, 04 Dec 2024 05:14:43 +0000Susie WarginHe’s not the typical professional athlete, but his resume reads like one: he was on the payroll of a professional team, he entertained fans and he performed athletic feats many would never dare. He also wore a mountain lion costume. Kenn Solomon was...
Kenn grew up in Las Vegas and was self-taught gymnastics in his backyard. After seeing the San Diego Chicken at a minor league baseball game, he instantly had a career goal. He became his high school’s mascot and did the same at two colleges. At Utah State, as a communications major, Kenn came to Denver during a summer to intern at the Rocky Mountain News. He decided to cold call the Nuggets and strike up a conversation about him being their mascot. The Nuggets didn’t have a mascot, but they listened to his spiel. They didn’t do anything right away, so Kenn kept calling.  Eventually he auditioned for Rocky and won the gig.  

His 30+ years as Rocky saw him become a fan favorite and an attraction for the Nuggets, especially during some very down seasons on the hardwood. He made countless appearances off the court, endured a few injuries (including breaking his back) and a life changing lesson after spending a weekend in jail.  

His retirement came after the Nuggets won their NBA championship and a transition to the new Rocky was set up for one of Kenn’s three sons. Drake Solomon held the role for a while until he had to step aside to rehab an injury. The Nuggets decided to go a different direction. Now Kenn is going in a different direction with lots of open doors and opportunities between public speaking, podcasting and writing a book.  

Listen to Kenn’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3015false108fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Ricky is a Colorado native with roots in the Denver Public School system. In high school he played football for legendary high school coach Dave Logan and won a State Championship. He had his choice of colleges but wanted to stay close to home and committed to the University of Colorado. That changed when Gary Barnett got fired and Ricky headed north to Colorado State University.  

He quickly became a star linebacker and had a breakout year his sophomore season which wrapped up with a win at the New Mexico Bowl. Before the game, he was drug tested and Ricky knew that was going to be a problem. It was. Ricky went from being on ESPN with a post-game interview to being a headline on the ticker with the word “suspension.”  

He'd return to CSU and have over 100 tackles his senior year. NFL teams appeared leery because of the suspension, and he never latched on anywhere, save for an overnight with the Dolphins. So instead, he put his efforts into a doctorate and becoming an educator. Today he’s an elementary school principal and radio color analyst for CSU football.  

Listen to Ricky’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. 

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62821796Tue, 19 Nov 2024 23:22:45 +0000Susie WarginWhen a life lesson presents itself, it’s usually best practice to learn and grow from it. Like Ricky Brewers’ junior year at Colorado State University. A year that he didn’t play football and instead was suspended and on the scout team.   Ricky is a...
Ricky is a Colorado native with roots in the Denver Public School system. In high school he played football for legendary high school coach Dave Logan and won a State Championship. He had his choice of colleges but wanted to stay close to home and committed to the University of Colorado. That changed when Gary Barnett got fired and Ricky headed north to Colorado State University.  

He quickly became a star linebacker and had a breakout year his sophomore season which wrapped up with a win at the New Mexico Bowl. Before the game, he was drug tested and Ricky knew that was going to be a problem. It was. Ricky went from being on ESPN with a post-game interview to being a headline on the ticker with the word “suspension.”  

He'd return to CSU and have over 100 tackles his senior year. NFL teams appeared leery because of the suspension, and he never latched on anywhere, save for an overnight with the Dolphins. So instead, he put his efforts into a doctorate and becoming an educator. Today he’s an elementary school principal and radio color analyst for CSU football.  

Listen to Ricky’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. 

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3271false107fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Corey started playing as a true freshman and gathered accolades as both an athlete and student. His senior season started strong with a pick-6 and a plethora of tackles… until he tore his pec muscle and required surgery. At that point, Corey wasn’t sure if he had a future in the NFL, so he picked up more classes and wrapped up his degree in four years.  

Turns out he did have an NFL future and in 2014, the Broncos drafted him in the 7th round. He worked his way on to the roster through special teams and became a Super Bowl Champion. Then another injury came and the Broncos didn’t sign him back in the offseason.  

Corey then traveled from team to team trying out for any openings. The Broncos brought him back in 2019, but in October that year, another injury put him out for the season and eventually out of the league.   These days he’s a husband, dad and business owner in Texas.  

Listen to Corey’s story and conversation with @susiewargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. Links to listen on your favorite podcast platforms in the @ctfrpodcast bio!

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62634248Wed, 06 Nov 2024 05:00:59 +0000Susie WarginHe’s one of just over 30 players who can say he played for the Broncos twice. Corey Nelson grew up in Dallas and was the 5A player of the year in high school as well as a 5-star recruit by Scout.com. He had numerous colleges offering scholarships and...
Corey started playing as a true freshman and gathered accolades as both an athlete and student. His senior season started strong with a pick-6 and a plethora of tackles… until he tore his pec muscle and required surgery. At that point, Corey wasn’t sure if he had a future in the NFL, so he picked up more classes and wrapped up his degree in four years.  

Turns out he did have an NFL future and in 2014, the Broncos drafted him in the 7th round. He worked his way on to the roster through special teams and became a Super Bowl Champion. Then another injury came and the Broncos didn’t sign him back in the offseason.  

Corey then traveled from team to team trying out for any openings. The Broncos brought him back in 2019, but in October that year, another injury put him out for the season and eventually out of the league.   These days he’s a husband, dad and business owner in Texas.  

Listen to Corey’s story and conversation with @susiewargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. Links to listen on your favorite podcast platforms in the @ctfrpodcast bio!

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3114false106fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chris-harris-jr--62469445
After his career with the Jayhawks where he played 50 games and racked up nearly 300 tackles, there was no invite to the Senior Bowl, the East-West Shrine game or the Combine. Instead, he had a Pro Day which went well, but he still went undrafted. Then the 2011 NFL lockout started. The chip deepened.  

When the lockout lifted, Chris was with the Broncos, trying to make a team with some top-notch defensive backs. He balled out on special teams, got the attention of coaches and made the roster. Eventually he’d be a starter and a key component of the “No Fly Zone” which helped the Broncos win Super Bowl 50.  

In 2020, his contract was up with the Broncos and despite thinking he would be resigned, he wasn’t and instead went to the Chargers and later to the Saints. In 2023, teams stopped calling and Chris knew it was time to retire, which he did in October of 2024. Today he’s embarking on some new adventures and trying to ensure he and his wife don’t get overthrown by their 5 young daughters.


Listen to Chris’s story and conversation with @susiewargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. Links to listen on your favorite podcast platforms in the @ctfrpodcast bio!

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62469445Wed, 23 Oct 2024 03:27:01 +0000Susie WarginThe chip on Chris Harris Jr’s shoulder began to form in high school. He’d lettered in three sports, been All-State in football and basketball and was honored for his academics. Yet he hadn’t been offered a scholarship after his senior year of...
After his career with the Jayhawks where he played 50 games and racked up nearly 300 tackles, there was no invite to the Senior Bowl, the East-West Shrine game or the Combine. Instead, he had a Pro Day which went well, but he still went undrafted. Then the 2011 NFL lockout started. The chip deepened.  

When the lockout lifted, Chris was with the Broncos, trying to make a team with some top-notch defensive backs. He balled out on special teams, got the attention of coaches and made the roster. Eventually he’d be a starter and a key component of the “No Fly Zone” which helped the Broncos win Super Bowl 50.  

In 2020, his contract was up with the Broncos and despite thinking he would be resigned, he wasn’t and instead went to the Chargers and later to the Saints. In 2023, teams stopped calling and Chris knew it was time to retire, which he did in October of 2024. Today he’s embarking on some new adventures and trying to ensure he and his wife don’t get overthrown by their 5 young daughters.


Listen to Chris’s story and conversation with @susiewargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. Links to listen on your favorite podcast platforms in the @ctfrpodcast bio!

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2804www.ctfrpodcast.comfalse105fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
The scout knew Jim wasn’t going to be drafted but saw his talent and wanted to be on the linebacker’s radar when he was picking out a team to sign with as an undrafted free agent. Turns out the Broncos were the only ones who called, and the kid from New Jersey went west for the first time.  

That was 1979. The year before, the Broncos had played in their first Super Bowl and the Orange Crush Defense was in full force. Jim figured he had no shot of making the team, so he played relaxed and had fun. That method worked well as he made the team and stayed for 10 seasons.  

After football, Jim tried a variety of jobs including stints with the media and coaching at the high school and NFL levels. After 3 firings in 5 years with coaching, Jim went into the business world. Today, he consults as a trainer for sales teams, spends time with his family and stays in touch with his former teammates.  

Listen to Jim’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62293169Wed, 09 Oct 2024 02:15:00 +0000Susie WarginEven though he was making tackles left and right at William & Mary, Jim Ryan never thought about going to the NFL after college. He was getting his Business Management degree and heading into the real world. That is until a scout from the Broncos...
The scout knew Jim wasn’t going to be drafted but saw his talent and wanted to be on the linebacker’s radar when he was picking out a team to sign with as an undrafted free agent. Turns out the Broncos were the only ones who called, and the kid from New Jersey went west for the first time.  

That was 1979. The year before, the Broncos had played in their first Super Bowl and the Orange Crush Defense was in full force. Jim figured he had no shot of making the team, so he played relaxed and had fun. That method worked well as he made the team and stayed for 10 seasons.  

After football, Jim tried a variety of jobs including stints with the media and coaching at the high school and NFL levels. After 3 firings in 5 years with coaching, Jim went into the business world. Today, he consults as a trainer for sales teams, spends time with his family and stays in touch with his former teammates.  

Listen to Jim’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2825false104fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
David grew up in California and played at Thousand Oaks High School, a hot bed for college recruiting. Despite having numerous D1 scouts and coaches at his games and dominating at wide receiver, David’s first scholarship offer came in the late fall of his senior year. During his visit to Fort Collins, he committed to play for Sonny Lubick.  

After a stellar career at CSU, he was selected by the Houston Texans with the 4th to last pick in the 2006 NFL Draft. Like Sonny Lubick, Gary Kubiak had an eye for hidden talent. David played 9 games as a rookie and stayed with the Texans until he was cut in the summer of 2011. He got picked up by the Broncos for training camp, then cut again. From there he bounced back to Houston, had a short stop with Mike Shanahan in Washington, another quick stint in Seattle and called it a career.  

After his playing days, David went back to school to get his MBA and venture into the business world. Eventually, his love for math and communications led to a startup called Breakaway Data where he is currently the CEO. David is also a husband and father to three young children who keep him plenty busy.  

Listen to David’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast anywhere you listen to podcasts. 

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/62102106Wed, 25 Sep 2024 11:58:03 +0000Susie WarginHe set receiving records at Colorado State University and eventually landed in their Athletics Hall of Fame. Not bad for a guy who didn’t have the size of a “typical” wide receiver in the early 2000’s. These days, David Anderson would fit right in.  ...
David grew up in California and played at Thousand Oaks High School, a hot bed for college recruiting. Despite having numerous D1 scouts and coaches at his games and dominating at wide receiver, David’s first scholarship offer came in the late fall of his senior year. During his visit to Fort Collins, he committed to play for Sonny Lubick.  

After a stellar career at CSU, he was selected by the Houston Texans with the 4th to last pick in the 2006 NFL Draft. Like Sonny Lubick, Gary Kubiak had an eye for hidden talent. David played 9 games as a rookie and stayed with the Texans until he was cut in the summer of 2011. He got picked up by the Broncos for training camp, then cut again. From there he bounced back to Houston, had a short stop with Mike Shanahan in Washington, another quick stint in Seattle and called it a career.  

After his playing days, David went back to school to get his MBA and venture into the business world. Eventually, his love for math and communications led to a startup called Breakaway Data where he is currently the CEO. David is also a husband and father to three young children who keep him plenty busy.  

Listen to David’s story and conversation with Susie Wargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast anywhere you listen to podcasts. 

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3486false103fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He caught up and moved to wide receiver, however in a run-first offense, Nate didn’t get enough exposure to earn a college football scholarship. He decided he would try to walk on somewhere and settled on Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. The football coach told him all the walk-on spots were full and he should come back in the spring. When he came back in the spring, Nate and the other walk-ons were put aside. So, he transferred to Division III Menlo College.  

At Menlo, Nate set records at wide receiver, earned NCAA Division III Offensive Player of the Year his senior year and is now in their Hall of Fame. He went undrafted after graduation and was able to catch on with the 49er’s. From there the ups and downs of pro football started: injury, cut, resigned, traded to the Broncos, NFL Europe, cut by Josh McDaniels, more injuries and a final try with the Las Vegas Locomotives.  

Nate’s body had enough. He retired, started a family and embarked on many missions: published a book, wrote numerous articles and became a radio talk show host. Today, he’s working with Guerrilla Sports and is the NFL’s Uniform Inspector on the Broncos sidelines during home games.  

Listen to Nate’s story and conversation with @susiewargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. Links to listen on your favorite podcast platforms in the @ctfrpodcast bio!

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61331959Wed, 11 Sep 2024 01:40:41 +0000Susie WarginGrowing up in California, Nate Jackson spent all his time in the swimming pool… because he wasn’t allowed to play football until high school. He excelled in the pool and figured out how to compete. Once he started high school, his football experience...
He caught up and moved to wide receiver, however in a run-first offense, Nate didn’t get enough exposure to earn a college football scholarship. He decided he would try to walk on somewhere and settled on Cal Poly San Luis Obispo. The football coach told him all the walk-on spots were full and he should come back in the spring. When he came back in the spring, Nate and the other walk-ons were put aside. So, he transferred to Division III Menlo College.  

At Menlo, Nate set records at wide receiver, earned NCAA Division III Offensive Player of the Year his senior year and is now in their Hall of Fame. He went undrafted after graduation and was able to catch on with the 49er’s. From there the ups and downs of pro football started: injury, cut, resigned, traded to the Broncos, NFL Europe, cut by Josh McDaniels, more injuries and a final try with the Las Vegas Locomotives.  

Nate’s body had enough. He retired, started a family and embarked on many missions: published a book, wrote numerous articles and became a radio talk show host. Today, he’s working with Guerrilla Sports and is the NFL’s Uniform Inspector on the Broncos sidelines during home games.  

Listen to Nate’s story and conversation with @susiewargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. Links to listen on your favorite podcast platforms in the @ctfrpodcast bio!

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3971false102fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
The diabetes diagnosis meant one thing: how to manage it and play sports. Jay figured it out with the proper nutrition and became stronger… real strong. He excelled on the offensive line at his high school and got noticed by Gary Barnett, who was recruiting for the University of Colorado under Bill McCartney.  

Jay took a scholarship at CU and found himself once again making a name for himself on the offensive line as a center. He helped the Buffs win a National Championship in 1990 and was a unanimous First Team All American the following season. There was talk about being a high draft pick, but that ended when he was chosen by the Chiefs in the 9th round of the 1992 draft.  

The Chiefs didn’t keep him after training camp his rookie season, but the Bears claimed him off wires and he thrived in Chicago, starting every game from 1993-1995. He was a free agent in 1996 and signed with the Colts and eventually became Peyton Manning’s center. After stops in Cincinnati, Washington and Denver (very briefly), Jay retired and settled in Colorado with his family.  
He dabbled in radio and TV and also got his teaching license. He’s been teaching 3rd grade at Colorado Academy now for 23 years.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61258573Wed, 04 Sep 2024 04:29:37 +0000Susie WarginHe grew up in St Louis and played a number of sports, except football. Jay Leeuwenburg’s dad wanted to make sure he was coached properly, so he had to wait until high school to hit the gridiron. In the meantime, Jay dealt with a setback: being...
The diabetes diagnosis meant one thing: how to manage it and play sports. Jay figured it out with the proper nutrition and became stronger… real strong. He excelled on the offensive line at his high school and got noticed by Gary Barnett, who was recruiting for the University of Colorado under Bill McCartney.  

Jay took a scholarship at CU and found himself once again making a name for himself on the offensive line as a center. He helped the Buffs win a National Championship in 1990 and was a unanimous First Team All American the following season. There was talk about being a high draft pick, but that ended when he was chosen by the Chiefs in the 9th round of the 1992 draft.  

The Chiefs didn’t keep him after training camp his rookie season, but the Bears claimed him off wires and he thrived in Chicago, starting every game from 1993-1995. He was a free agent in 1996 and signed with the Colts and eventually became Peyton Manning’s center. After stops in Cincinnati, Washington and Denver (very briefly), Jay retired and settled in Colorado with his family.  
He dabbled in radio and TV and also got his teaching license. He’s been teaching 3rd grade at Colorado Academy now for 23 years.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3065false101fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Travis was a standout high school player in The Golden State, earning a California Player of the Year Award and the Glenn Davis Award for the best high school player in the Los Angeles area. His career at UCLA wasn’t nearly as illustrious as he endured a few coaching changes and injuries. The result was being undrafted in 1997.  

He stuck with his goal, however, and got on with the Detroit Lions where he became a starter his 3rd year and stayed for 6 seasons. From there he moved on (by choice) to the 49’ers and had one of his best seasons, starting nearly every game and racking up 43 tackles. After San Fransisco, he was courted by the Saints and Steelers and felt Pittsburgh was the best fit. Smart move. Travis helped build a solid defense with names like Polamalu and Porter and won two Super Bowls.   After 13 seasons, Travis knew his time had come.

He had moved to Colorado during his NFL career with his wife and three kids and returned there to start the next chapter. In retirement, he has stayed busy as an assistant football coach at Valor High School and being dad to three athletes. Currently his two youngest sons are college student athletes with Gabe playing football at Colorado State and Blake playing lacrosse at the University of Denver.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61179345Wed, 28 Aug 2024 01:12:07 +0000Susie WarginGrowing up in California, he wanted to be like his favorite Raider’s player, Howie Long. Coincidentally, Travis Kirschke paralleled Howie’s NFL position (defensive end) and longevity in the league (13 years). Howie stayed with the same team and won...
Travis was a standout high school player in The Golden State, earning a California Player of the Year Award and the Glenn Davis Award for the best high school player in the Los Angeles area. His career at UCLA wasn’t nearly as illustrious as he endured a few coaching changes and injuries. The result was being undrafted in 1997.  

He stuck with his goal, however, and got on with the Detroit Lions where he became a starter his 3rd year and stayed for 6 seasons. From there he moved on (by choice) to the 49’ers and had one of his best seasons, starting nearly every game and racking up 43 tackles. After San Fransisco, he was courted by the Saints and Steelers and felt Pittsburgh was the best fit. Smart move. Travis helped build a solid defense with names like Polamalu and Porter and won two Super Bowls.   After 13 seasons, Travis knew his time had come.

He had moved to Colorado during his NFL career with his wife and three kids and returned there to start the next chapter. In retirement, he has stayed busy as an assistant football coach at Valor High School and being dad to three athletes. Currently his two youngest sons are college student athletes with Gabe playing football at Colorado State and Blake playing lacrosse at the University of Denver.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2252false100fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
The parade was like previous parades for the Broncos and the Avalanche with players and coaches on top of fire trucks, traveling slowly through the streets of Denver. The final truck was the main attraction, carrying fan favorites Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray and the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy. The crowds got closer and closer to the truck as items were being tossed up, autographed and tossed back down.  

Denver Police and SWAT team members initially had a comfortable security perimeter around the truck but began to lose their space as the crowd swelled.  SWAT Sergeant Justin Dodge was on the passenger side of the 80,000-pound truck and next to a wheel well as he worked to keep parade goers safe while the truck turned at 13th & Cherokee.  

But when the truck turned, the wheel came out of the well 3 feet, catching Justin off guard and finding himself pinned by his leg under the wheel. His story about those vital seconds and what followed is incredible. Even more amazing: he returned to his SWAT team less than a year after losing his lower leg.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61098436Wed, 21 Aug 2024 02:31:21 +0000Susie WarginIt was the event Nuggets fans had been waiting for since pro basketball came to Denver: a Championship Parade. On June 13, 2023, an estimated 750,000 people flocked to downtown Denver to celebrate their team who had just beat the Miami Heat in the NBA...
The parade was like previous parades for the Broncos and the Avalanche with players and coaches on top of fire trucks, traveling slowly through the streets of Denver. The final truck was the main attraction, carrying fan favorites Nikola Jokic and Jamal Murray and the Larry O’Brien Championship Trophy. The crowds got closer and closer to the truck as items were being tossed up, autographed and tossed back down.  

Denver Police and SWAT team members initially had a comfortable security perimeter around the truck but began to lose their space as the crowd swelled.  SWAT Sergeant Justin Dodge was on the passenger side of the 80,000-pound truck and next to a wheel well as he worked to keep parade goers safe while the truck turned at 13th & Cherokee.  

But when the truck turned, the wheel came out of the well 3 feet, catching Justin off guard and finding himself pinned by his leg under the wheel. His story about those vital seconds and what followed is incredible. Even more amazing: he returned to his SWAT team less than a year after losing his lower leg.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3573false99fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Kenny also didn’t know when he chose Boston College that his quarterback, Doug Flutie, would be a Heisman Trophy winner and have incredible success in both the Canadian Football League as well as the NFL. Kenny just kept playing, only missing one of his 48 games with the Eagles and honing his skills as a return specialist.  

He also had no idea when he made the Broncos roster as an undrafted free agent in 1986, that his quarterback John Elway would be a 2-time Super Bowl champion and have his bust in Canton. Kenny just kept doing what he did well on special teams. Coaches adored him and teammates loved his style.  

He went to three Super Bowls during his tenure in orange and blue. Unfortunately, he never saw a win in the big game before retiring from the game. After football Kenny dabbled in the restaurant business, then got into management in health care and later hospitality. Today, he can be found managing employees at the Denver Convention Center.  

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/61020654Wed, 14 Aug 2024 03:04:56 +0000Susie WarginBetween high school, college and the NFL, he played with two future Pro Football Hall of Famers and one Heisman Trophy winner. Of course Kenny Bell had no idea when he played for Greenwich High School that his quarterback Steve Young would go on to be...
Kenny also didn’t know when he chose Boston College that his quarterback, Doug Flutie, would be a Heisman Trophy winner and have incredible success in both the Canadian Football League as well as the NFL. Kenny just kept playing, only missing one of his 48 games with the Eagles and honing his skills as a return specialist.  

He also had no idea when he made the Broncos roster as an undrafted free agent in 1986, that his quarterback John Elway would be a 2-time Super Bowl champion and have his bust in Canton. Kenny just kept doing what he did well on special teams. Coaches adored him and teammates loved his style.  

He went to three Super Bowls during his tenure in orange and blue. Unfortunately, he never saw a win in the big game before retiring from the game. After football Kenny dabbled in the restaurant business, then got into management in health care and later hospitality. Today, he can be found managing employees at the Denver Convention Center.  

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2248false98fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Next came a move to Atlanta. Surfing wasn’t an option, so Bucky went 100% into football during high school. He went on to punt for the University of Georgia as a walk-on. His reverse spin, directional punting and hang time became a problem for opponents.  

Despite his collegiate success, Bucky went undrafted in 1977 and while a number of teams offered him a spot in training camp, he went with the Broncos who had a lot of competition at the punting position. Fully confident, Bucky came to camp and won the position.  

His rookie season included a trip to the Super Bowl and a spot on the All-Rookie Team. He’d stay with Denver for another year before being traded to the then-Baltimore Colts. After a rough year with the Colts and pricing himself out of the market contract wise, Bucky was done with the NFL.  

After retirement, Bucky hit the business world and endured some personal setbacks and challenges with his family. Today he’s helping people (and himself) become healthier versions of themselves.  

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60943187Wed, 07 Aug 2024 03:22:33 +0000Susie WarginAs the son of a Naval pilot, Bucky Dilts moved around a lot growing. At one point his family was based in Hawaii where he learned to surf and play football, specifically punting. He’d kick a football (with his left foot) over anything high that he...
Next came a move to Atlanta. Surfing wasn’t an option, so Bucky went 100% into football during high school. He went on to punt for the University of Georgia as a walk-on. His reverse spin, directional punting and hang time became a problem for opponents.  

Despite his collegiate success, Bucky went undrafted in 1977 and while a number of teams offered him a spot in training camp, he went with the Broncos who had a lot of competition at the punting position. Fully confident, Bucky came to camp and won the position.  

His rookie season included a trip to the Super Bowl and a spot on the All-Rookie Team. He’d stay with Denver for another year before being traded to the then-Baltimore Colts. After a rough year with the Colts and pricing himself out of the market contract wise, Bucky was done with the NFL.  

After retirement, Bucky hit the business world and endured some personal setbacks and challenges with his family. Today he’s helping people (and himself) become healthier versions of themselves.  

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2555false97fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Emery had his choice of colleges as a star athlete out of Evanston and opted to head to Boulder and play for the Buffs. He played both running back and wide receiver and was a captain his senior year when CU won the Big 8 Conference Championship.  

He got noticed by NFL Scouts and was picked by the Giants in the 6th round of the 1977 draft. After two head coaches and three seasons, he was traded to the Broncos for the 1980 season. His teammates included names like Watson, Upchurch, Wright, Egloff and Morton on offense and Gradishar, Foley, TJ, BT and Chavous on defense. He only spent one year in Denver, but quickly became part of the Broncos family.  

He was cut by the Broncos in 1981 and his former Buffs teammate Dave Williams suggested to the Bear that they bring Emery in.  They did and he stuck around for the next 8 years playing wherever and whenever… and winning a Super Bowl ring.  

After retirement, Emery was a real estate agent in Illinois for 28 years and today is fully retired, splitting his time between Illinois and Colorado.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60869986Wed, 31 Jul 2024 02:59:55 +0000Susie WarginHis roots are in Illinois, along with most of his 12 seasons in the NFL. However, Emery Moorehead’s football career went through Colorado twice.   Emery had his choice of colleges as a star athlete out of Evanston and opted to head to Boulder and...
Emery had his choice of colleges as a star athlete out of Evanston and opted to head to Boulder and play for the Buffs. He played both running back and wide receiver and was a captain his senior year when CU won the Big 8 Conference Championship.  

He got noticed by NFL Scouts and was picked by the Giants in the 6th round of the 1977 draft. After two head coaches and three seasons, he was traded to the Broncos for the 1980 season. His teammates included names like Watson, Upchurch, Wright, Egloff and Morton on offense and Gradishar, Foley, TJ, BT and Chavous on defense. He only spent one year in Denver, but quickly became part of the Broncos family.  

He was cut by the Broncos in 1981 and his former Buffs teammate Dave Williams suggested to the Bear that they bring Emery in.  They did and he stuck around for the next 8 years playing wherever and whenever… and winning a Super Bowl ring.  

After retirement, Emery was a real estate agent in Illinois for 28 years and today is fully retired, splitting his time between Illinois and Colorado.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2696false96fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Mark’s four years with the Broncos weren’t as successful as he would have liked, he often found himself in the training room with an injury and then fighting to get his job back.  He did start many games, however, including Super Bowl 21.   

In 1987, Mark was ready to move on. After a little game of “let’s try to trade you rather than release you,” the Broncos set the price tag too high for a trade and nobody took the bait. Mark was released and signed with Tampa Bay where he played the next few seasons before retiring.  

After he retired, Mark returned to Denver. He had fallen in love with the Mile High City and got into some business ventures. He also got his real estate license, which worked out very well for him: more than 30 years later, he’s still helping clients buy and sell in both Colorado and Florida. 

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60783852Wed, 24 Jul 2024 03:39:43 +0000Susie WarginHis first trip to Colorado came when the Broncos drafted him 31st overall in 1983.  Prior to that, Mark Cooper had spent nearly his entire life in Florida, growing up playing football and excelling on the offensive line at the University of Miami....
Mark’s four years with the Broncos weren’t as successful as he would have liked, he often found himself in the training room with an injury and then fighting to get his job back.  He did start many games, however, including Super Bowl 21.   

In 1987, Mark was ready to move on. After a little game of “let’s try to trade you rather than release you,” the Broncos set the price tag too high for a trade and nobody took the bait. Mark was released and signed with Tampa Bay where he played the next few seasons before retiring.  

After he retired, Mark returned to Denver. He had fallen in love with the Mile High City and got into some business ventures. He also got his real estate license, which worked out very well for him: more than 30 years later, he’s still helping clients buy and sell in both Colorado and Florida. 

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2497false95fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
His mom married, but then widowed when her husband tragically passed away. That life change put Orlando and his family in a women’s homeless shelter for a year. Next was Section 8 housing. Then he found football and loved it.  

Not only did Orlando find football, he found trouble. He ran with a crowd that made some bad choices and was arrested for the first time when he was 12. The second time he was arrested, his mom told him she wouldn’t bail him out unless he made a contract with her to turn his life around. He did and she still has that contract.  

Big O and his mom moved to Florida soon after. He got letters from over 70 colleges, and he chose the Miami Hurricanes. From there, he was the Broncos 2nd round draft pick in 2011. Over the next four years, he started 70 of 71 games. In 2015, he thought Denver was going to resign him, but they never called. Begrudgingly, he went to San Diego and Washington over the next few seasons. He called it quits in 2018 to be a very present father to his kids, something he didn’t have growing up.  

Listen to Orlando’s story and conversation with @susiewargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. Links to listen on your favorite podcast platforms in the @ctfrpodcast bio!

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60646910Tue, 09 Jul 2024 21:57:07 +0000Susie WarginOrlando Franklin’s unconventional path to the NFL started in Jamaica. He was born to a single mom who wanted a better life for her and her sons. She applied for Visa’s in three countries and only one accepted her: Canada. So, Orlando’s path went...
His mom married, but then widowed when her husband tragically passed away. That life change put Orlando and his family in a women’s homeless shelter for a year. Next was Section 8 housing. Then he found football and loved it.  

Not only did Orlando find football, he found trouble. He ran with a crowd that made some bad choices and was arrested for the first time when he was 12. The second time he was arrested, his mom told him she wouldn’t bail him out unless he made a contract with her to turn his life around. He did and she still has that contract.  

Big O and his mom moved to Florida soon after. He got letters from over 70 colleges, and he chose the Miami Hurricanes. From there, he was the Broncos 2nd round draft pick in 2011. Over the next four years, he started 70 of 71 games. In 2015, he thought Denver was going to resign him, but they never called. Begrudgingly, he went to San Diego and Washington over the next few seasons. He called it quits in 2018 to be a very present father to his kids, something he didn’t have growing up.  

Listen to Orlando’s story and conversation with @susiewargin on the Cut Traded Fired Retired Podcast. Links to listen on your favorite podcast platforms in the @ctfrpodcast bio!

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3466false94fullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/nicole-deboom--60584546
Nicole DeBoom is always smiling, which may lead one to believe she’s only encountered positives in her life. Not quite. Along with all the highs have come some lows, like waiting tables and putting on a mascot costume with a degree from Yale. She was also a black out drinker (sober now) and found herself fighting like crazy for space in the apparel world once the big brands realized (and copied) what she was doing with Skirt Sports.  

Today, Nicole, Tim and their daughter Wilder live in Steamboat after uprooting from Boulder four years ago. She had sold her business and went to find her purpose. She may have just done that by coming full circle with a big announcement in the podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60584546Wed, 03 Jul 2024 03:45:17 +0000Susie WarginShe went to the Olympic Trials for swimming when she was 16. She became a pro triathlete after she graduated from Yale. She met her husband (also a pro triathlete) when he sat next to her on a plane. She designed the first running skirt and created a...
Nicole DeBoom is always smiling, which may lead one to believe she’s only encountered positives in her life. Not quite. Along with all the highs have come some lows, like waiting tables and putting on a mascot costume with a degree from Yale. She was also a black out drinker (sober now) and found herself fighting like crazy for space in the apparel world once the big brands realized (and copied) what she was doing with Skirt Sports.  

Today, Nicole, Tim and their daughter Wilder live in Steamboat after uprooting from Boulder four years ago. She had sold her business and went to find her purpose. She may have just done that by coming full circle with a big announcement in the podcast.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2858false93fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Growing up in Boulder, Matt was a baseball guy. Until his dad won a game of gin at the local country club and the losing golf pro didn’t have the money to pay up. So, Matt’s dad bartered and got the pro to give golf lessons to his sons. One lesson and Matt was hooked.  

He kept up the game until just before high school. The Schalk family finances were struggling at the time and the pricey sport of golf went on the shelf for a decade. After a couple of years at Metro State, Matt picked up his clubs again and decided he wanted to go pro. He made some money, but usually only enough to pay for the next entry fee.  

Once Matt and his wife started a family, it was time for a real job. Of course he started at a golf course, picking up range balls by hand. He eventually worked his way to what he’s doing now as the GM and Director of Golf at Colorado National Golf Club.  In the meantime, he also turned 50, which meant he could start competing in senior events and trying to make the cuts for bigger tournaments. Not only did he make some cuts, he won some championships. Championships that could turn into much bigger victories than he ever had in his younger years. He truly is getting better with age.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60431449Wed, 19 Jun 2024 02:18:39 +0000Susie WarginMost athletes walk away from sports because they “get too old.” The opposite can happen in the sport of golf and Matt Schalk is a prime example.   Growing up in Boulder, Matt was a baseball guy. Until his dad won a game of gin at the local country...
Growing up in Boulder, Matt was a baseball guy. Until his dad won a game of gin at the local country club and the losing golf pro didn’t have the money to pay up. So, Matt’s dad bartered and got the pro to give golf lessons to his sons. One lesson and Matt was hooked.  

He kept up the game until just before high school. The Schalk family finances were struggling at the time and the pricey sport of golf went on the shelf for a decade. After a couple of years at Metro State, Matt picked up his clubs again and decided he wanted to go pro. He made some money, but usually only enough to pay for the next entry fee.  

Once Matt and his wife started a family, it was time for a real job. Of course he started at a golf course, picking up range balls by hand. He eventually worked his way to what he’s doing now as the GM and Director of Golf at Colorado National Golf Club.  In the meantime, he also turned 50, which meant he could start competing in senior events and trying to make the cuts for bigger tournaments. Not only did he make some cuts, he won some championships. Championships that could turn into much bigger victories than he ever had in his younger years. He truly is getting better with age.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2403falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He grew up in Nebraska and followed his father’s passion for the diamond. He played baseball throughout high school and found himself becoming more enamored with how the game was played. After getting his degree from the then Colorado State College (now University of Northern Colorado), he got a job teaching in the Cherry Creek School District.   

He wasn’t there long before he was drafted… into the Army and he was set to head to Vietnam. Until he got a phone call asking if he’d rather go to Vietnam or coach baseball on a base in Texas. He chose the latter.  


After leaving the Army, and with some coaching under his belt, he came back to Cherry Creek and started to teach again and coach. In the spring of 1973, he took over as the head coach for the Bruins and stayed there until he won his 9th State Title in June of 2024. Shortly after, the American Baseball Coaches Association names him the 2024 National High School Coach of the Year (Div I).



To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60355499Tue, 11 Jun 2024 23:39:20 +0000Susie WarginAsk anyone in the circle of baseball about Marc Johnson and chances are  they either have a tie to him or know someone who does.  That’s because for more than 50 years, Coach Johnson led one of the best baseball programs in the state of Colorado. A...
He grew up in Nebraska and followed his father’s passion for the diamond. He played baseball throughout high school and found himself becoming more enamored with how the game was played. After getting his degree from the then Colorado State College (now University of Northern Colorado), he got a job teaching in the Cherry Creek School District.   

He wasn’t there long before he was drafted… into the Army and he was set to head to Vietnam. Until he got a phone call asking if he’d rather go to Vietnam or coach baseball on a base in Texas. He chose the latter.  


After leaving the Army, and with some coaching under his belt, he came back to Cherry Creek and started to teach again and coach. In the spring of 1973, he took over as the head coach for the Bruins and stayed there until he won his 9th State Title in June of 2024. Shortly after, the American Baseball Coaches Association names him the 2024 National High School Coach of the Year (Div I).



To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2808falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Sean graduated from Overland High School in Aurora and headed north to play for a coach he thought was perfect for his college career at Colorado State University: Earl Bruce. Unfortunately, Coach Bruce was fired after Sean’s first year and he considered transferring. He was asked to be on an advisory board to hire the new football coach and after hearing Sonny Lubick’s interview, he said he’d stay if Sonny got the job.  

Sean thrived under Coach Lubick and left with numerous accolades great moments including running a fumble recovery 72 yards for a touchdown against #6 Arizona in 1994 – a game no one expected the Rams to be a contender, let alone win. In 2004, Sean became a member of the CSU Athletics Hall of Fame.  

He was drafted in the 4th round by the Buffalo Bills in 1996 and spent the next 8 years between the Bills, St. Louis Rams and 49ers. He played for some great coaches (Wade Phillips, Mike Martz and Dennis Erikson) as well with a number of future Hall of Famers.   

After football, Sean became a fire fighter and paramedic which he continues to do today along with being a husband and father to three children.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60276745Tue, 04 Jun 2024 17:40:36 +0000Susie WarginDespite the fact he was a very accomplished swimmer in high school, Sean Moran’s dream was to play professional football. Which he did.   Sean graduated from Overland High School in Aurora and headed north to play for a coach he thought was perfect...
Sean graduated from Overland High School in Aurora and headed north to play for a coach he thought was perfect for his college career at Colorado State University: Earl Bruce. Unfortunately, Coach Bruce was fired after Sean’s first year and he considered transferring. He was asked to be on an advisory board to hire the new football coach and after hearing Sonny Lubick’s interview, he said he’d stay if Sonny got the job.  

Sean thrived under Coach Lubick and left with numerous accolades great moments including running a fumble recovery 72 yards for a touchdown against #6 Arizona in 1994 – a game no one expected the Rams to be a contender, let alone win. In 2004, Sean became a member of the CSU Athletics Hall of Fame.  

He was drafted in the 4th round by the Buffalo Bills in 1996 and spent the next 8 years between the Bills, St. Louis Rams and 49ers. He played for some great coaches (Wade Phillips, Mike Martz and Dennis Erikson) as well with a number of future Hall of Famers.   

After football, Sean became a fire fighter and paramedic which he continues to do today along with being a husband and father to three children.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2487falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He was recruited by a number of schools and felt drawn to Boulder where Rick Neuheisel was the head coach. After his first season, Coach Neuheisel left and Gary Barnett was hired. Normally a new coach would make a first-year player nervous, however Tyler had been recruited by Coach Barnett’s previous school, Northwestern, so the familiarity was already there.  

Tyler racked up some nice numbers for the Buffs as a Defensive End: in 74 games, he had 47 starts, 152 tackles, 12 ½ sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 3 fumble recoveries and 6 passes defensed. Heading into the NFL was an obvious next step and Tyler thought he’d be a 2nd or 3rd round pick.  Instead, he was picked in the 1st round by the then-Oakland Raiders.  

In 5 seasons with the Raiders, Tyler had 4 different head coaches. His first-year stats were impressive as he started all 16 games under Bill Callahan. After that, however, his numbers started to decline and with one year left on his six-year contract, Tyler nullified his deal and became a free agent.  

He resurrected his career under John Fox and the Carolina Panthers where he spent 3 seasons and then finished his NFL career with the Colts. He wasn’t ready to be done, however when no one called, he knew it was time.  

Today, Tyler is the head football coach of Arapahoe High School and enjoys spending time with his wife and their 3 children.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60200961Tue, 28 May 2024 18:28:01 +0000Susie WarginGrowing up in Washington, Tyler Brayton played a lot of sports. His grandfather was a baseball coach and he thought he was destined for the diamond. That was until his lanky body got coordinated and he started to excel at football in high school.  ...
He was recruited by a number of schools and felt drawn to Boulder where Rick Neuheisel was the head coach. After his first season, Coach Neuheisel left and Gary Barnett was hired. Normally a new coach would make a first-year player nervous, however Tyler had been recruited by Coach Barnett’s previous school, Northwestern, so the familiarity was already there.  

Tyler racked up some nice numbers for the Buffs as a Defensive End: in 74 games, he had 47 starts, 152 tackles, 12 ½ sacks, 3 forced fumbles, 3 fumble recoveries and 6 passes defensed. Heading into the NFL was an obvious next step and Tyler thought he’d be a 2nd or 3rd round pick.  Instead, he was picked in the 1st round by the then-Oakland Raiders.  

In 5 seasons with the Raiders, Tyler had 4 different head coaches. His first-year stats were impressive as he started all 16 games under Bill Callahan. After that, however, his numbers started to decline and with one year left on his six-year contract, Tyler nullified his deal and became a free agent.  

He resurrected his career under John Fox and the Carolina Panthers where he spent 3 seasons and then finished his NFL career with the Colts. He wasn’t ready to be done, however when no one called, he knew it was time.  

Today, Tyler is the head football coach of Arapahoe High School and enjoys spending time with his wife and their 3 children.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2794falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Fisher got a small scholarship to play football and baseball at Wofford College. He also worked a few jobs to pay for school as well as enlisted in Army ROTC. After graduation, he served his commitment, earned his master’s degree and started coaching football and baseball at the high school level.  

His coaching path led him back to Wofford, where he was introduced to the Wishbone offense by head coach James Brakefield. Coach Brakefield brought Fisher with him to Appalachian State where for nine years, the Mountaineers dominated on offense.  

In 1980, Ken Hatfield asked Fisher to join his staff at the Air Force Academy and Fisher took a huge leap leaving the south. He started as the Quarterback’s Coach, moved to Offensive Coordinator and got the Head Coaching job when Coach Hatfield left for Arkansas. Over the next 21 seasons, Coach DeBarry’s Falcons would win the coveted Commander in Chief trophy 14 times, secure a few conference championships as well as bowl game victories.  

After retiring in 2006, Fisher and his wife LuAnn amped up their Fisher DeBerry Foundation, helping single parent families, as well as spending time with their two children, grandchildren and now great-grandchildren.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60111637Tue, 21 May 2024 12:39:36 +0000Susie WarginGrowing up in Cheraw, South Carolina, Fisher DeBerry spent his time playing multiple sports: football, basketball, baseball and track. In high school, he was All-State in football and baseball. He’ll try to tell you that’s because there wasn’t much...
Fisher got a small scholarship to play football and baseball at Wofford College. He also worked a few jobs to pay for school as well as enlisted in Army ROTC. After graduation, he served his commitment, earned his master’s degree and started coaching football and baseball at the high school level.  

His coaching path led him back to Wofford, where he was introduced to the Wishbone offense by head coach James Brakefield. Coach Brakefield brought Fisher with him to Appalachian State where for nine years, the Mountaineers dominated on offense.  

In 1980, Ken Hatfield asked Fisher to join his staff at the Air Force Academy and Fisher took a huge leap leaving the south. He started as the Quarterback’s Coach, moved to Offensive Coordinator and got the Head Coaching job when Coach Hatfield left for Arkansas. Over the next 21 seasons, Coach DeBarry’s Falcons would win the coveted Commander in Chief trophy 14 times, secure a few conference championships as well as bowl game victories.  

After retiring in 2006, Fisher and his wife LuAnn amped up their Fisher DeBerry Foundation, helping single parent families, as well as spending time with their two children, grandchildren and now great-grandchildren.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2682deberry,fisherfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Jordan grew up the son of a football coach and his family of 7 moved around often. He also learned football from a coaching perspective, which proved very fruitful in the NFL as he was constantly learning new schemes and adapting to wherever a team placed him.  

His “natural” position was wide receiver which is why the Broncos signed him. Denver also made him a return specialist, a position he had never played before, but quickly excelled in it. In Super Bowl 50, Jordan set a Super Bowl record by returning a punt 61 yards, helping to set up a field goal for the Broncos.  

After retiring from football, Jordan started some business ventures. Today he is the CEO of DIME MKTG, a company helping athletes realize and improve their brand and value. He is also on the board of directors for The Denver Dream Center and runs a yearly golf tournament to help raise funds for youth and sports programs.  

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/60024549Tue, 14 May 2024 12:29:19 +0000Susie WarginIt would have been easy to walk away from the NFL after being released over and over again. Afterall, Jordan Norwood could head into the real world with his degree from Penn State and find something right? But he didn’t. Instead, he used his down time...
Jordan grew up the son of a football coach and his family of 7 moved around often. He also learned football from a coaching perspective, which proved very fruitful in the NFL as he was constantly learning new schemes and adapting to wherever a team placed him.  

His “natural” position was wide receiver which is why the Broncos signed him. Denver also made him a return specialist, a position he had never played before, but quickly excelled in it. In Super Bowl 50, Jordan set a Super Bowl record by returning a punt 61 yards, helping to set up a field goal for the Broncos.  

After retiring from football, Jordan started some business ventures. Today he is the CEO of DIME MKTG, a company helping athletes realize and improve their brand and value. He is also on the board of directors for The Denver Dream Center and runs a yearly golf tournament to help raise funds for youth and sports programs.  

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2021falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He grew up in California and gravitated to track and football in high school. He spent one year at Arizona State where he was moved from his high school position of defensive end to defensive back. As Louis says he “partied” his way out of ASU after one year and returned home to attend junior college where he ran track and sat on the bench for the football team.  

He got back to a Division One school when San Jose State offered him a track scholarship. Then a very smart assistant football coach saw him running and convinced him to join the football team. He rode the pine again, until the Spartans played ASU (coincidentally) and Louis was called in for a play. He made a spectacular tackle and never sat on the bench again.  

The Broncos chose Louis with the 17th overall pick in the 1975 draft. His 12-year career with the Broncos included accolades like 5 Pro Bowls, 4 First-Team All-Pro, Ring of Fame, 50th Anniversary Team, two Super Bowl appearances, 26 career interceptions and 11 fumble recoveries. His stats are not as high as other DB’s because quarterbacks feared what might happen if they threw his way, so many times they didn’t.  

After he retired, Louis finished his degree and eventually earned his teaching certificate as well. He recently retired from 28 years of teaching and coaching in the Denver area. He continues to run (in his 70’s), stay in touch with teammates and keep his humble attitude.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59897062Tue, 07 May 2024 11:59:41 +0000Susie WarginMany think he should be in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. Afterall, he’s one of only four defensive players on the NFL 1970’s All-Decade team not in Canton and the only corner back on that same list without a bust. But to Louis Wright, all that...
He grew up in California and gravitated to track and football in high school. He spent one year at Arizona State where he was moved from his high school position of defensive end to defensive back. As Louis says he “partied” his way out of ASU after one year and returned home to attend junior college where he ran track and sat on the bench for the football team.  

He got back to a Division One school when San Jose State offered him a track scholarship. Then a very smart assistant football coach saw him running and convinced him to join the football team. He rode the pine again, until the Spartans played ASU (coincidentally) and Louis was called in for a play. He made a spectacular tackle and never sat on the bench again.  

The Broncos chose Louis with the 17th overall pick in the 1975 draft. His 12-year career with the Broncos included accolades like 5 Pro Bowls, 4 First-Team All-Pro, Ring of Fame, 50th Anniversary Team, two Super Bowl appearances, 26 career interceptions and 11 fumble recoveries. His stats are not as high as other DB’s because quarterbacks feared what might happen if they threw his way, so many times they didn’t.  

After he retired, Louis finished his degree and eventually earned his teaching certificate as well. He recently retired from 28 years of teaching and coaching in the Denver area. He continues to run (in his 70’s), stay in touch with teammates and keep his humble attitude.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2453falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He chose Colorado State University, where Sonny Lubick moved him from tight end to the offensive line. He wasn’t crazy about the switch, but didn’t argue because it gave him playing time and Sonny told him he thought he had a chance at the NFL if he moved. Sonny was right.

Clint was drafted in the 5th round of the 2007 Draft, then his roller coaster began going from team to team including a short stint with the Broncos. Thankfully just as his pro career was coming to a close, Clint’s brother found an ad for an internship at EA Sports. The gaming company was looking for former college players to help with Madden. He got the internship and soon after his playing days were done, Clint went full time. He's been working there ever since on both Madden and College Football (which is returning in the summer of 2024). Reinvention at its best.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59730055Tue, 30 Apr 2024 13:20:48 +0000Susie WarginThe path for this episode’s guest started in Wyoming where he was convinced, like so many other football players, that basketball was his ticket to pro sports.  Wyoming basketball worked fine for Clint Oldenburg, but to hit the next level, football...
He chose Colorado State University, where Sonny Lubick moved him from tight end to the offensive line. He wasn’t crazy about the switch, but didn’t argue because it gave him playing time and Sonny told him he thought he had a chance at the NFL if he moved. Sonny was right.

Clint was drafted in the 5th round of the 2007 Draft, then his roller coaster began going from team to team including a short stint with the Broncos. Thankfully just as his pro career was coming to a close, Clint’s brother found an ad for an internship at EA Sports. The gaming company was looking for former college players to help with Madden. He got the internship and soon after his playing days were done, Clint went full time. He's been working there ever since on both Madden and College Football (which is returning in the summer of 2024). Reinvention at its best.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2570falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Once he was under Coach Pagano’s tutelage, Tony was moved from quarterback to the offensive line. Quite the change, but whatever Coach said was gospel to the tall, lanky kid who would grow even more and thrive on the line. Offers started to come in from colleges and Tony narrowed it down to USC and Notre Dame. When the Irish told him they weren’t interested, Tony headed to California and was a multi-year All-American and All-Pac 10 player.  

In 1995, the Jacksonville Jaguars took Tony as the 2nd overall pick and his pro career thrived as a 3-time All-Pro, 5-time Pro Bowler and a member of the 1990’s NFL All Decades Team. Life was good, until Tom Coughlin told Tony he was being traded to the expansion Houston Texans.  

Tony was upset and bitter for a few years, but eventually realized he and his family belonged back in Jacksonville. He remains there today. Since retirement, several Hall of Fames have enshrined Tony, including Pro Football, College Football, and Colorado Sports. Today, he’s the Jags radio color commentator, runs his Boselli Foundation with his wife Angi and heads up a health care company.  

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59620249Tue, 23 Apr 2024 18:36:15 +0000Susie WarginTony Boselli’s goal growing up was to play high school football for Sam Pagano. He attended Coach Pagano’s infamous Mile High Football camps and dreamt of running onto Knight’s field at Fairview High School. His home school was Boulder High, so he...
Once he was under Coach Pagano’s tutelage, Tony was moved from quarterback to the offensive line. Quite the change, but whatever Coach said was gospel to the tall, lanky kid who would grow even more and thrive on the line. Offers started to come in from colleges and Tony narrowed it down to USC and Notre Dame. When the Irish told him they weren’t interested, Tony headed to California and was a multi-year All-American and All-Pac 10 player.  

In 1995, the Jacksonville Jaguars took Tony as the 2nd overall pick and his pro career thrived as a 3-time All-Pro, 5-time Pro Bowler and a member of the 1990’s NFL All Decades Team. Life was good, until Tom Coughlin told Tony he was being traded to the expansion Houston Texans.  

Tony was upset and bitter for a few years, but eventually realized he and his family belonged back in Jacksonville. He remains there today. Since retirement, several Hall of Fames have enshrined Tony, including Pro Football, College Football, and Colorado Sports. Today, he’s the Jags radio color commentator, runs his Boselli Foundation with his wife Angi and heads up a health care company.  

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3960falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He played 3 seasons in the minor leagues and came to realize that small towns with no fans wasn’t much fun, not to mention baseball’s mental anguish. So he called Nick Saban and asked to meet. Coach Saban got back to him within a few hours and said Matt always had a spot with him.  

When Coach Saban got the head coaching job at LSU in 2000, Matt joined him. After coming off the bench in an SEC Championship game in 2001 and helping secure a come from behind victory, Matt was the starter.  He would go on to help his team win a National Championship, forgo his senior year and get drafted by the Broncos in 2004. The NFL wasn’t easy and Matt was done after a few seasons.  
Immediately after his playing days were over, Matt started with CU’s School of Dentistry and became Dr. Matt Mauck. His thriving practice in Aurora is also partnered with the Broncos as the team dentist. Full circle.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59495557Tue, 16 Apr 2024 23:16:24 +0000Susie WarginGrowing up in Indiana, Matt Mauck’s favorite sport was basketball, followed by football, then baseball. He received some scholarship offers to play basketball but committed to Michigan State for football under Nick Saban. Then came spring of his...
He played 3 seasons in the minor leagues and came to realize that small towns with no fans wasn’t much fun, not to mention baseball’s mental anguish. So he called Nick Saban and asked to meet. Coach Saban got back to him within a few hours and said Matt always had a spot with him.  

When Coach Saban got the head coaching job at LSU in 2000, Matt joined him. After coming off the bench in an SEC Championship game in 2001 and helping secure a come from behind victory, Matt was the starter.  He would go on to help his team win a National Championship, forgo his senior year and get drafted by the Broncos in 2004. The NFL wasn’t easy and Matt was done after a few seasons.  
Immediately after his playing days were over, Matt started with CU’s School of Dentistry and became Dr. Matt Mauck. His thriving practice in Aurora is also partnered with the Broncos as the team dentist. Full circle.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2587falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
In 2019, Billy was named to the Broncos All-Time Top 100 Team. He played 9 seasons in Denver and was a top 10 NFL punter in 5 of those years. He was quite athletic at other positions as well: he had 82 catches as a wide receiver, scored 11 touchdowns and averaged 20 ½ yards per catch. He also carried the ball on occasion. As a running back he had 13 carries for 171 yards and 1 touchdown (a 66-yard return on a fake punt).  

In the middle of his NFL career in 1972, like most players in that era, Billy started a second job when he got his Colorado real estate license. He dabbled in real estate for the next few years until he realized he was done with football in 1977. The wrap on his career was not by choice: after the 1976 season some controversy boiled up regarding how some players felt after they were told their head coach John Ralston was being retained. The player’s thoughts about Ralston made it to the media and Billy saw the writing on the wall when he was called out for it. Despite Ralston not being retained as head coach, Billy was cut on the last day of training camp in 1977.    

After his playing career was over, Billy stayed in Denver and real estate became his full-time job and he’s still going strong today with his Billy Van Heusen Team.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59364177Tue, 09 Apr 2024 11:32:40 +0000Susie WarginHe grew up in New York and went to college at the University of Maryland. Billy Van Heusen was all east coast until he stepped off a plane in Denver in 1968 and saw the Front Range for the first time. His goal as an undrafted free agent became not...
In 2019, Billy was named to the Broncos All-Time Top 100 Team. He played 9 seasons in Denver and was a top 10 NFL punter in 5 of those years. He was quite athletic at other positions as well: he had 82 catches as a wide receiver, scored 11 touchdowns and averaged 20 ½ yards per catch. He also carried the ball on occasion. As a running back he had 13 carries for 171 yards and 1 touchdown (a 66-yard return on a fake punt).  

In the middle of his NFL career in 1972, like most players in that era, Billy started a second job when he got his Colorado real estate license. He dabbled in real estate for the next few years until he realized he was done with football in 1977. The wrap on his career was not by choice: after the 1976 season some controversy boiled up regarding how some players felt after they were told their head coach John Ralston was being retained. The player’s thoughts about Ralston made it to the media and Billy saw the writing on the wall when he was called out for it. Despite Ralston not being retained as head coach, Billy was cut on the last day of training camp in 1977.    

After his playing career was over, Billy stayed in Denver and real estate became his full-time job and he’s still going strong today with his Billy Van Heusen Team.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2317falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Charlie took a scholarship at Hofstra University where he figured he would see some action with their offense. He was right. When he graduated, Charlie was Hofstra’s all-time leading wide receiver. A record since broken by Marques Colston who, coincidentally, Charlie hosted when Marques was being recruited.  

A knee injury during his senior year at Hofstra prevented NFL teams from drafting Charlie, however the Broncos stayed in touch and offered him a spot as a college free agent. Charlie stuck around for a few years and although he was on and off the active roster several times, his final season included starting 16 games and playing in the postseason.  

These days Charlie works on a number of endeavors, including the Denver Broncos Alumni Association and their golf tournament.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59267285Tue, 02 Apr 2024 21:38:19 +0000Susie WarginHe grew up in Pennsylvania with two older brothers and played in just about every sport.  Eventually football became Charlie Adam’s bread and butter – he could catch and run. Skills that served him well as a wide receiver and a return specialist....
Charlie took a scholarship at Hofstra University where he figured he would see some action with their offense. He was right. When he graduated, Charlie was Hofstra’s all-time leading wide receiver. A record since broken by Marques Colston who, coincidentally, Charlie hosted when Marques was being recruited.  

A knee injury during his senior year at Hofstra prevented NFL teams from drafting Charlie, however the Broncos stayed in touch and offered him a spot as a college free agent. Charlie stuck around for a few years and although he was on and off the active roster several times, his final season included starting 16 games and playing in the postseason.  

These days Charlie works on a number of endeavors, including the Denver Broncos Alumni Association and their golf tournament.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2323falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He took his baseball skills to the University of Kentucky where he was a 3-year starter, 2X First Team All-SEC and still ranks near the top of the records books for the Wildcats in stolen bases. He was named an SEC Legend in 2013.

Major League Baseball scouts noticed Terry at Kentucky and he was drafted in the 2nd round by the Kansas City Royals in 1987. It took a few years for his MLB debut, but it finally came in 1990 and from there he stayed in the Bigs until retirement in 2004. Five of his 14 seasons were spent the Rockies where he became the ultimate utility player. During his career, Terry played every position except pitcher and catcher. He was Mr. Reliable.

After baseball, Terry focused on his five children with his wife DeQuita and has tried to impart the knowledge he has learned throughout his career, while also giving his kids the space to make their own decisions.


To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59201850Wed, 27 Mar 2024 23:20:15 +0000Susie WarginHe came from a high school in Kentucky that produced a number of well-known athletes, like Steve Finley, George Wilson and Kurt Barber. Terry Shumpert thought basketball at Paducah Tilghman High School would take him to the next level, but a knee...
He took his baseball skills to the University of Kentucky where he was a 3-year starter, 2X First Team All-SEC and still ranks near the top of the records books for the Wildcats in stolen bases. He was named an SEC Legend in 2013.

Major League Baseball scouts noticed Terry at Kentucky and he was drafted in the 2nd round by the Kansas City Royals in 1987. It took a few years for his MLB debut, but it finally came in 1990 and from there he stayed in the Bigs until retirement in 2004. Five of his 14 seasons were spent the Rockies where he became the ultimate utility player. During his career, Terry played every position except pitcher and catcher. He was Mr. Reliable.

After baseball, Terry focused on his five children with his wife DeQuita and has tried to impart the knowledge he has learned throughout his career, while also giving his kids the space to make their own decisions.


To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2935falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
In his first game, Chase had 4 ½ sacks and when he graduated, he held the Thunderwolves’ sack record. NFL scouts were checking him out, but his name wasn’t called on draft day, nor did any teams call afterwards to invite him as a free agent. At that point, the grind began between different leagues including the Arena League and the CFL. After a few years of being cut and racking up the balance on a credit card with tryout fees and plane tickets, Chase was noticed by a Broncos scout and signed a contract with Denver.  

He suffered an injury his first season and when John Fox was fired, he figured he was done. But Gary Kubiak’s group kept him around for another season and he took the opportunity to slow down and appreciate how far he’d come.  

After football, Chase became a firefighter for the Aurora Fire Department and provides an insightful analogy between playing football and fighting fires. While he used to thrive on adrenaline running down the field on special teams, he now thrives on running into burning structures and being there for people on their worst days.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59105437Tue, 19 Mar 2024 21:34:44 +0000Susie WarginHe started playing football as a junior at Smoky Hill High School. He made varsity as a senior. Chase Vaughn turned some heads in that short time and received three small offers at Division II and NAIA schools. He accepted one for Adams State and was...
In his first game, Chase had 4 ½ sacks and when he graduated, he held the Thunderwolves’ sack record. NFL scouts were checking him out, but his name wasn’t called on draft day, nor did any teams call afterwards to invite him as a free agent. At that point, the grind began between different leagues including the Arena League and the CFL. After a few years of being cut and racking up the balance on a credit card with tryout fees and plane tickets, Chase was noticed by a Broncos scout and signed a contract with Denver.  

He suffered an injury his first season and when John Fox was fired, he figured he was done. But Gary Kubiak’s group kept him around for another season and he took the opportunity to slow down and appreciate how far he’d come.  

After football, Chase became a firefighter for the Aurora Fire Department and provides an insightful analogy between playing football and fighting fires. While he used to thrive on adrenaline running down the field on special teams, he now thrives on running into burning structures and being there for people on their worst days.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>4043falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
At Evergreen High School, Tanya was a standout in both basketball and volleyball. In 1980 she was so dominate, the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame created a female selection to their High School Athlete of the Year award and she won the first one. That same year, she won the coveted Steinmark Award and Sportswoman of the Year.    

She opted for the University of Tennessee where she could play basketball under Pat Summit and if that didn’t work out, the volleyball program was waiting for her. Her time with the Lady Vols and Coach Summit worked out just fine: 3 NCAA Final Four appearances and two National Championships. The WNBA didn’t exist when Tanya graduated from Tennessee, so she took her talents overseas where she was a 12-time All-Star in 14 years of playing professional basketball in several countries.  

When her playing career was done, the coaching bug bit her and after being an assistant at Regis, the University of Colorado and University of Denver, she got her first head coaching gig at the University of San Fransisco. It was a rough four seasons with many lessons learned, especially with recruiting and finding the right staff. When she was let go from San Fransisco in 2010, Metro State University pursued her, and she became the Roadrunner’s head coach.  Since then, Tanya has become a 3-time RMAC Coach of the Year and the Roadrunner’s winningest coach in school history.  She's also a member of the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame. 

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/59015321Tue, 12 Mar 2024 11:57:59 +0000Susie WarginIn 1976 (when the Olympics were easy to watch on one over-the-air channel), Tanya Haave got inspired by a sport featuring women for the first time: basketball. Watching Team USA that year would lead her around the world.     At Evergreen High...
At Evergreen High School, Tanya was a standout in both basketball and volleyball. In 1980 she was so dominate, the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame created a female selection to their High School Athlete of the Year award and she won the first one. That same year, she won the coveted Steinmark Award and Sportswoman of the Year.    

She opted for the University of Tennessee where she could play basketball under Pat Summit and if that didn’t work out, the volleyball program was waiting for her. Her time with the Lady Vols and Coach Summit worked out just fine: 3 NCAA Final Four appearances and two National Championships. The WNBA didn’t exist when Tanya graduated from Tennessee, so she took her talents overseas where she was a 12-time All-Star in 14 years of playing professional basketball in several countries.  

When her playing career was done, the coaching bug bit her and after being an assistant at Regis, the University of Colorado and University of Denver, she got her first head coaching gig at the University of San Fransisco. It was a rough four seasons with many lessons learned, especially with recruiting and finding the right staff. When she was let go from San Fransisco in 2010, Metro State University pursued her, and she became the Roadrunner’s head coach.  Since then, Tanya has become a 3-time RMAC Coach of the Year and the Roadrunner’s winningest coach in school history.  She's also a member of the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame. 

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2481falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He was a stellar linebacker and team captain for the University of Colorado. Nearly 50 years after he played, Brian’s name is still on the top 20 list of the Buffs all-time tacklers. A list that also includes 10 names he would eventually coach.

After graduating from CU, Brian was a 4th round draft pick. During his first few seasons, he dealt with injury, a trade and being cut. After he was released from the Packers, he thought he was done, but a higher power did not. On his drive to Boulder from Wisconsin, Brian prayed and left his future in God’s hands. When he pulled into his driveway, his wife Becky ran out to tell him the Bears had been calling. After six seasons in Chicago, and a Super Bowl championship, Brian retired and went into coaching.

Bill McCartney brought him to CU on as a Graduate Assistant and he quickly became a linebacker’s coach. Coach Cabral’s ability to connect with players was undeniable: he remained on the Buffs coaching staff through FIVE head coaches. He was also an interim head coach twice and felt he was ready to lead his alma mater. When that opportunity went elsewhere, Coach Cabral left Boulder for a few years. A few years after he returned, the CU Athletic Department reached out and created a position for him as a Character Coach. Today he works with all CU student athletes and loves being back with the Black and Gold.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58931129Tue, 05 Mar 2024 12:42:45 +0000Susie WarginGrowing up in Hawaii, his dream was to play football at Notre Dame like his dad. That dream was crushed when the Irish sent him a rejection letter. Brian Cabral then turned to a school where he would spend decades of his life. He was a stellar...
He was a stellar linebacker and team captain for the University of Colorado. Nearly 50 years after he played, Brian’s name is still on the top 20 list of the Buffs all-time tacklers. A list that also includes 10 names he would eventually coach.

After graduating from CU, Brian was a 4th round draft pick. During his first few seasons, he dealt with injury, a trade and being cut. After he was released from the Packers, he thought he was done, but a higher power did not. On his drive to Boulder from Wisconsin, Brian prayed and left his future in God’s hands. When he pulled into his driveway, his wife Becky ran out to tell him the Bears had been calling. After six seasons in Chicago, and a Super Bowl championship, Brian retired and went into coaching.

Bill McCartney brought him to CU on as a Graduate Assistant and he quickly became a linebacker’s coach. Coach Cabral’s ability to connect with players was undeniable: he remained on the Buffs coaching staff through FIVE head coaches. He was also an interim head coach twice and felt he was ready to lead his alma mater. When that opportunity went elsewhere, Coach Cabral left Boulder for a few years. A few years after he returned, the CU Athletic Department reached out and created a position for him as a Character Coach. Today he works with all CU student athletes and loves being back with the Black and Gold.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2154falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Randy was courted by a number of colleges, which caught him off guard because he had never planned on attending college. His parents couldn’t afford it and he figured he would start working after high school like everyone else he knew. Instead, Woody Hayes connected with Randy and as importantly, his father and off he went to Ohio State.

His success as a Buckeye caught the eye of NFL Scouts, so much so that he was the 14th overall pick by the Broncos in 1974. Being his unassuming self, Randy didn’t know he was a first rounder or even where Colorado was, he just knew he needed to get to Denver after head coach John Ralston called him.

His 10-year NFL career in Denver was spent immersed in the Orange Crush Defense, multiple Pro-Bowls, a Super Bowl appearance, NFL Defensive Player of the Year and much more. So much more that after 35 years of retirement from the game, he was finally voted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58856533Tue, 27 Feb 2024 21:28:37 +0000Susie WarginHis small Ohio town didn’t offer football until the 9th grade. Because of that, Randy Gradishar fancied himself more as a basketball player because he’d spent far more time on the court than the gridiron. Thankfully college coaches didn’t feel the...
Randy was courted by a number of colleges, which caught him off guard because he had never planned on attending college. His parents couldn’t afford it and he figured he would start working after high school like everyone else he knew. Instead, Woody Hayes connected with Randy and as importantly, his father and off he went to Ohio State.

His success as a Buckeye caught the eye of NFL Scouts, so much so that he was the 14th overall pick by the Broncos in 1974. Being his unassuming self, Randy didn’t know he was a first rounder or even where Colorado was, he just knew he needed to get to Denver after head coach John Ralston called him.

His 10-year NFL career in Denver was spent immersed in the Orange Crush Defense, multiple Pro-Bowls, a Super Bowl appearance, NFL Defensive Player of the Year and much more. So much more that after 35 years of retirement from the game, he was finally voted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2024.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2742football,gradishar,nfl,podcast,sportsfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/mike-newell--58750127
He quickly became Colorado State’s starting center and along with being part of an offensive line that did not allow a sack for two straight seasons and a Holiday Bowl win over Missouri, Mike racked up a number of impressive accolades. He was eventually inducted into the CSU Athletics Hall of Fame.

Along with Mike’s great play, came some injuries, including a misdiagnosed back injury his senior season. Mike needed surgery and instead of going to the Senior Bowl and NFL combine, he went under the knife. Thankfully, the pain was gone after surgery, but a tough physical and mental road laid ahead as an undrafted free agent in the NFL.

Over the course of 5 seasons, Mike was with the Packers, NFL Europe, Rams and Texans. The grind was real, and yet he never played a down in a regular season NFL game. When his career was over, he was relieved.

Today, Mike still lives in Colorado, is an elementary school PE teacher and father to three very active teens. He continues to support the Rams and barely recognizes the guy who used to play center for CSU.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58750127Tue, 20 Feb 2024 13:06:21 +0000Susie WarginHis heritage in Colorado dates back five generations. So, it made sense when Mike Newell graduated from Littleton High School that he wanted to stay in Colorado despite football scholarships from many other schools. He quickly became Colorado...
He quickly became Colorado State’s starting center and along with being part of an offensive line that did not allow a sack for two straight seasons and a Holiday Bowl win over Missouri, Mike racked up a number of impressive accolades. He was eventually inducted into the CSU Athletics Hall of Fame.

Along with Mike’s great play, came some injuries, including a misdiagnosed back injury his senior season. Mike needed surgery and instead of going to the Senior Bowl and NFL combine, he went under the knife. Thankfully, the pain was gone after surgery, but a tough physical and mental road laid ahead as an undrafted free agent in the NFL.

Over the course of 5 seasons, Mike was with the Packers, NFL Europe, Rams and Texans. The grind was real, and yet he never played a down in a regular season NFL game. When his career was over, he was relieved.

Today, Mike still lives in Colorado, is an elementary school PE teacher and father to three very active teens. He continues to support the Rams and barely recognizes the guy who used to play center for CSU.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2538falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He had full ride offers to several schools, including the Academy, but stayed with his goal and went for the grind in Colorado Springs. The days were tough between practice, marching, drills and an intense curriculum, but Ben loved it. He started 34 of 39 games as a Falcon and got noticed by NFL Scouts.

Ben was hoping to get drafted and applied for a deferment for his required active duty. He was denied and his draft stock fell. The Broncos still brought him in as an undrafted free agent and placed him on military reserve. After Ben served his 2-year commitment, he returned to the NFL and played for 11 seasons with the Broncos, Falcons and 49’ers.

These days, philanthropy is at the core of Ben’s world with his latest venture being The Hero App, which helps non-profits fulfill their needs.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58677856Tue, 13 Feb 2024 21:11:14 +0000Susie WarginFrom a very young age, Colorado native Ben Garland knew he wanted to attend the Air Force Academy. He researched what the Academy wanted in a cadet and joined countless clubs to show his dedication to service and community. He also played some...
He had full ride offers to several schools, including the Academy, but stayed with his goal and went for the grind in Colorado Springs. The days were tough between practice, marching, drills and an intense curriculum, but Ben loved it. He started 34 of 39 games as a Falcon and got noticed by NFL Scouts.

Ben was hoping to get drafted and applied for a deferment for his required active duty. He was denied and his draft stock fell. The Broncos still brought him in as an undrafted free agent and placed him on military reserve. After Ben served his 2-year commitment, he returned to the NFL and played for 11 seasons with the Broncos, Falcons and 49’ers.

These days, philanthropy is at the core of Ben’s world with his latest venture being The Hero App, which helps non-profits fulfill their needs.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2019falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
The competition grew between the two, especially as Ryan and Garrett began getting noticed by national D2 publications and NFL Scouts. It continued after college: Garrett was invited to the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine and in the 2013 Draft, Ryan was picked one round ahead of Garrett. They still jab each other about it.

Their pro careers eventually led both to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Garrett was out of the league and getting his MBA as Ryan was getting a mega contract with the Bucs, being Tom Brady’s center and winning a Super Bowl. They stayed in touch and when Ryan was looking to build a house on some land in Colorado, he contacted Garrett to help with the process. Now the two are in business together with Gilk.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58592716Tue, 06 Feb 2024 23:32:59 +0000Susie WarginOne grew up in Colorado, the other in Illinois. Two redheaded offensive lineman. Both received $2500 scholarships to play Division II football. Ryan Jensen headed south to CSU-Pueblo and Garrett Gilkey played for Chadron State. Their schools were in...
The competition grew between the two, especially as Ryan and Garrett began getting noticed by national D2 publications and NFL Scouts. It continued after college: Garrett was invited to the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine and in the 2013 Draft, Ryan was picked one round ahead of Garrett. They still jab each other about it.

Their pro careers eventually led both to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. Garrett was out of the league and getting his MBA as Ryan was getting a mega contract with the Bucs, being Tom Brady’s center and winning a Super Bowl. They stayed in touch and when Ryan was looking to build a house on some land in Colorado, he contacted Garrett to help with the process. Now the two are in business together with Gilk.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2755falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Not only did Mike grow up moving from city to city with his father’s career, when he went to Boise State, he was the backup quarterback where he got used to a headset and clipboard. He didn’t mind either one, in fact he loved it.

As soon as Mike graduated, he got on as a GA with his dad’s staff at UNLV. He didn’t stick to Mike Sr.’s tree for long. His career took to him to stops with Standford (twice), Yale, Western Kentucky (twice), Boise St, Notre Dame, Utah State, Minnesota and finally the University of Colorado. He was hired to be the Offensive Coordinator for Karl Dorrell in 2022, but when Karl got fired after an 0-5 start, he became the interim head coach.

When he wasn’t retained by the new staff at CU, Mike and his family decided to grow some roots in Colorado and give coaching a break. He’s taken time to reflect and is starting to find a new passion for being on radio and TV as an analyst.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58505792Tue, 30 Jan 2024 20:14:25 +0000Susie WarginBeing a college football coach is all Mike Sanford has ever known. After all, his father, Mike Sanford Sr., was a college coach before Mike was even born. Not only did Mike grow up moving from city to city with his father’s career, when he went to...
Not only did Mike grow up moving from city to city with his father’s career, when he went to Boise State, he was the backup quarterback where he got used to a headset and clipboard. He didn’t mind either one, in fact he loved it.

As soon as Mike graduated, he got on as a GA with his dad’s staff at UNLV. He didn’t stick to Mike Sr.’s tree for long. His career took to him to stops with Standford (twice), Yale, Western Kentucky (twice), Boise St, Notre Dame, Utah State, Minnesota and finally the University of Colorado. He was hired to be the Offensive Coordinator for Karl Dorrell in 2022, but when Karl got fired after an 0-5 start, he became the interim head coach.

When he wasn’t retained by the new staff at CU, Mike and his family decided to grow some roots in Colorado and give coaching a break. He’s taken time to reflect and is starting to find a new passion for being on radio and TV as an analyst.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3678falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He had his choices of colleges and was being looked at as simply an athlete. He played quarterback at Glades Central, but his speed caught the eye of scouts. Jimmy opted for the University of Florida and skipped his senior season to enter the NFL Draft.

The Washington Redskins took Jimmy in the 8th round and he spent his rookie season on the practice squad. The next season, he was with the Saints, where he was taught technique and thrived at defensive back. He also thrived at having too much fun and when he was given a chance to re-sign in the Big Easy, he credits God for showing him a different path. He took an offer with the Bengals instead.

After Cincinnati, he went to the Chargers, then finished his career with the Broncos for three years, including the final year serving as a player/coach, something that hadn’t been done since 1972. These days he’s a husband and dad to four and coaches one of his sons at Cherry Creek High School.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58415268Tue, 23 Jan 2024 12:31:59 +0000Susie WarginHis high school is known for having one of the best programs in the nation and producing more NCAA and NFL players than any other high school. Needless to say, there were no “off” days for Jimmy Spencer at Glades Central in Florida, which was fine...
He had his choices of colleges and was being looked at as simply an athlete. He played quarterback at Glades Central, but his speed caught the eye of scouts. Jimmy opted for the University of Florida and skipped his senior season to enter the NFL Draft.

The Washington Redskins took Jimmy in the 8th round and he spent his rookie season on the practice squad. The next season, he was with the Saints, where he was taught technique and thrived at defensive back. He also thrived at having too much fun and when he was given a chance to re-sign in the Big Easy, he credits God for showing him a different path. He took an offer with the Bengals instead.

After Cincinnati, he went to the Chargers, then finished his career with the Broncos for three years, including the final year serving as a player/coach, something that hadn’t been done since 1972. These days he’s a husband and dad to four and coaches one of his sons at Cherry Creek High School.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3019falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Mark was drafted by the Astros in 1982 and credits his college ball for giving him a fast track to the majors: he debuted in single A and just 3 years later, he made his MLB debut. In 1986, Mark was traded to the Brewers which stung, but he made the most of it and became their Opening Day starter in 1991. Unfortunately, the next day he came down with a virus and was never the same that year. He was sent to their AAA team (the Denver Zephyrs) where he helped win a championship and then was released when the Brewers weren’t going to bring him back to the show.

Mark kept a home in the Denver area while he was playing and in the early 90’s was “enlisted” to be a spokesperson to help bring Major League Baseball to Denver. In his final year in the pros, Mark played for that team and was the first Colorado born player to be on the Rockies roster.

The day after Mark retired, his wife had triplets and they would later add another daughter. In retirement, he’s worked in numerous mediums in journalism and continues to do so between writing, radio and podcasting. He’s also a high school baseball coach for Prospect Ridge Academy in Broomfield.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58323798Tue, 16 Jan 2024 21:24:35 +0000Susie WarginHe’s the only person who played high school, college and professional baseball in the state of Colorado. After graduating from Northglenn High School, a suburb north of Denver, Mark Knudson went straight up I-25 to Colorado State University where he...
Mark was drafted by the Astros in 1982 and credits his college ball for giving him a fast track to the majors: he debuted in single A and just 3 years later, he made his MLB debut. In 1986, Mark was traded to the Brewers which stung, but he made the most of it and became their Opening Day starter in 1991. Unfortunately, the next day he came down with a virus and was never the same that year. He was sent to their AAA team (the Denver Zephyrs) where he helped win a championship and then was released when the Brewers weren’t going to bring him back to the show.

Mark kept a home in the Denver area while he was playing and in the early 90’s was “enlisted” to be a spokesperson to help bring Major League Baseball to Denver. In his final year in the pros, Mark played for that team and was the first Colorado born player to be on the Rockies roster.

The day after Mark retired, his wife had triplets and they would later add another daughter. In retirement, he’s worked in numerous mediums in journalism and continues to do so between writing, radio and podcasting. He’s also a high school baseball coach for Prospect Ridge Academy in Broomfield.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2260falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He opted for the University of North Carolina where he played tight end sparingly for two years, then was switched to defensive end and thrived. So much so, the Dallas Cowboys moved up to draft him in the first round of the 1999 NFL Draft. At that point, Ebenezer became the first Ghana born player in the NFL.

Injuries crept in during his 5 years in Dallas and he dealt with three different head coaches, including Bill Parcells. It didn’t take long for Eb to realize he wasn’t a “Parcells Guy.” He signed with the Browns as a free agent and then the next season was traded to the Broncos where he fell in love with Denver. After 10 years in the NFL, Ebenezer and his wife Karen made their home in the Mile High City where they are raising four children.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58246998Tue, 09 Jan 2024 23:55:04 +0000Susie WarginHe moved from Ghana to the United States when he was 7. Ebenezer Ekuban didn’t know anything about football and had no aspirations of playing the game because he was focused on academics. When his father told him he needed to do something outside of...
He opted for the University of North Carolina where he played tight end sparingly for two years, then was switched to defensive end and thrived. So much so, the Dallas Cowboys moved up to draft him in the first round of the 1999 NFL Draft. At that point, Ebenezer became the first Ghana born player in the NFL.

Injuries crept in during his 5 years in Dallas and he dealt with three different head coaches, including Bill Parcells. It didn’t take long for Eb to realize he wasn’t a “Parcells Guy.” He signed with the Browns as a free agent and then the next season was traded to the Broncos where he fell in love with Denver. After 10 years in the NFL, Ebenezer and his wife Karen made their home in the Mile High City where they are raising four children.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3736falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Cole opted to play college football at Colorado State University for Sonny Lubick and prided himself on protecting his quarterback. He allowed just one sack his senior season and was a team captain. He also dealt with injuries.

His name wasn’t called on draft day, but he was able to get on as a college free agent with Gary Kubiak’s Texans, who at the time were “CSU South” with several former Rams on the roster. Cole was cut a few times in the NFL and when a doctor told him his knee was shot, he hung up his cleats.

Post retirement wasn’t easy. He tried coaching at the University of Miami and some other odd jobs and nothing felt right. He also fell into a dark place mentally and used opiates and other substances to help his physical and mental pain. Today, Cole is in a better place. He enjoys his job and talking to others about overcoming substance abuse and challenges.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/58066287Tue, 19 Dec 2023 23:53:11 +0000Susie WarginCole Pemberton took a leap of faith when he transferred from Kansas City to Highlands Ranch to live with his dad during his high school years. That leap provided a new relationship with his father and a stellar football career as an offensive lineman...
Cole opted to play college football at Colorado State University for Sonny Lubick and prided himself on protecting his quarterback. He allowed just one sack his senior season and was a team captain. He also dealt with injuries.

His name wasn’t called on draft day, but he was able to get on as a college free agent with Gary Kubiak’s Texans, who at the time were “CSU South” with several former Rams on the roster. Cole was cut a few times in the NFL and when a doctor told him his knee was shot, he hung up his cleats.

Post retirement wasn’t easy. He tried coaching at the University of Miami and some other odd jobs and nothing felt right. He also fell into a dark place mentally and used opiates and other substances to help his physical and mental pain. Today, Cole is in a better place. He enjoys his job and talking to others about overcoming substance abuse and challenges.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2832falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Denny Neagle yearned to be the savior Rockies fans so desperately wanted. He’d worked his way up through the baseball ranks, starting with college ball at the University of Minnesota, getting drafted by the Twins, becoming an ace and All-Star with the Pirates, starting a World Series game and earning another All-Star nod with the Braves and winning a World Series ring with the Yankees. The pedigree was there, and it was tough on Denny when success didn’t come in Denver. He wanted to prove his worth.

Denny pitched his last game in July of 2003, had some personal incidents in 2004 and realized he needed to get his life together, not only for himself, but for his family and those around him. These days, he spends a lot of time with his family, especially his three young adult children. He’s also the pitching coach at Chatfield High School and starting to dabble in podcasting with comedian Frank Nicotero.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57991007Wed, 13 Dec 2023 02:42:14 +0000Susie WarginWhen Rockies’ ownership opened their wallets in 2000 and struck mega deals with two big name pitchers, fans rejoiced. Unfortunately, Coors Field is an unforgiving ballpark for pitchers, no matter how much money they get paid. Denny Neagle yearned...
Denny Neagle yearned to be the savior Rockies fans so desperately wanted. He’d worked his way up through the baseball ranks, starting with college ball at the University of Minnesota, getting drafted by the Twins, becoming an ace and All-Star with the Pirates, starting a World Series game and earning another All-Star nod with the Braves and winning a World Series ring with the Yankees. The pedigree was there, and it was tough on Denny when success didn’t come in Denver. He wanted to prove his worth.

Denny pitched his last game in July of 2003, had some personal incidents in 2004 and realized he needed to get his life together, not only for himself, but for his family and those around him. These days, he spends a lot of time with his family, especially his three young adult children. He’s also the pitching coach at Chatfield High School and starting to dabble in podcasting with comedian Frank Nicotero.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3742falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
After the NFL, Bradlee dabbled a bit overseas in both football and another passion: wine. He also met a girl and after a few years, had his second true girlfriend and eventually wife. He also got his MBA, has become a father of five and is starting to reconnect with Colorado State, it’s football team and people from his past.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57961788Sat, 09 Dec 2023 20:03:19 +0000Susie WarginThe NFL Draft and Beyond: Bradlee Van Pelt thought he’d be drafted on the first day, which shouldn’t surprise anyone. BVP oozed confidence after his tie at Colorado State University and was convinced the NFL was ready for his unconventional style of...
After the NFL, Bradlee dabbled a bit overseas in both football and another passion: wine. He also met a girl and after a few years, had his second true girlfriend and eventually wife. He also got his MBA, has become a father of five and is starting to reconnect with Colorado State, it’s football team and people from his past.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>4946falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
What Bradlee did know is he wanted to play quarterback and he stuck to his plan despite nearly everyone trying to push him to another position and never receiving any proper quarterback coaching. He threw footballs at targets for hours after practice, just waiting for his moment. When that moment came, Bradlee rose to the occasion and fans were calling for Sunshine to be under center. He made it and while the next two years involved some chaos, Bradlee won back to back Mountain West Conference Offensive Player of the Year awards.

Part 1 focuses on BVP’s early life, from growing up the son of an NFL player, the litany of sports he played, figuring out college and some choices he wishes he could have back and do over. Part 2 focuses on 2004 to present day, from the NFL Draft, bouncing around to a few teams, becoming a husband and a father.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57920430Tue, 05 Dec 2023 18:00:21 +0000Susie WarginThe Early Years: When he arrived at Colorado State University, the skateboard wielding transfer quarterback from Michigan State was all the talk and a bit of a mystery. Fans called him “Sunshine” and no one could quite figure out Bradlee Van Pelt....
What Bradlee did know is he wanted to play quarterback and he stuck to his plan despite nearly everyone trying to push him to another position and never receiving any proper quarterback coaching. He threw footballs at targets for hours after practice, just waiting for his moment. When that moment came, Bradlee rose to the occasion and fans were calling for Sunshine to be under center. He made it and while the next two years involved some chaos, Bradlee won back to back Mountain West Conference Offensive Player of the Year awards.

Part 1 focuses on BVP’s early life, from growing up the son of an NFL player, the litany of sports he played, figuring out college and some choices he wishes he could have back and do over. Part 2 focuses on 2004 to present day, from the NFL Draft, bouncing around to a few teams, becoming a husband and a father.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3436falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Reuben mostly grew up in LA and when his grades weren’t where they needed to be, he went to junior college after high school. He played football and tore up the field as a running back – in 1997, he was the nation’s top JuCo running back. Soon he got his grades up and took his talents to Oregon where he continued to run like crazy and was 1st Team All-Pac 10 his senior year.

He was a 3rd round draft pick by the Detroit Lions in 2000 and would get traded a few times and spend time with a few teams including Denver, Cleveland and the NY Giants. After a nine-year career in the NFL, he tried high school coaching, overseas coaching and these days is just being dad, to FOUR girls. Of course he’s still always smiling.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57836943Tue, 28 Nov 2023 22:27:06 +0000Susie WarginLife was rough growing up for Reuben Droughns, but no one would ever guess that based off the permanent smile he wears on his face. No one would know he stayed in hotels at times, was homeless other times and dealt with custody issues. Reuben could...
Reuben mostly grew up in LA and when his grades weren’t where they needed to be, he went to junior college after high school. He played football and tore up the field as a running back – in 1997, he was the nation’s top JuCo running back. Soon he got his grades up and took his talents to Oregon where he continued to run like crazy and was 1st Team All-Pac 10 his senior year.

He was a 3rd round draft pick by the Detroit Lions in 2000 and would get traded a few times and spend time with a few teams including Denver, Cleveland and the NY Giants. After a nine-year career in the NFL, he tried high school coaching, overseas coaching and these days is just being dad, to FOUR girls. Of course he’s still always smiling.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2710falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Jeremy’s story sounds like a fairy tale and while he’s extremely grateful for everything he’s accomplished, none of it came without trials and tribulations. The training it took to be a world class freestyle skier, college athlete and NFL player was constant. He was inches away from winning an Olympic gold medal. He was cut from two NFL teams. He was so focused on his athletic career, relationships sat on a back burner. He nearly threw in the towel on his start up when their capital was running out. Thankfully every time Jeremy encountered a roadblock, he recalibrated and found success.

Listen to his story here and find out how he made it all work with his book RECALIBRATE: Navigating the Winding Road to Success.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57756933Tue, 21 Nov 2023 23:57:41 +0000Susie WarginHis story sounds improbable: middle class kid from Northern Colorado becomes a high caliber two sport athlete at the highest levels. After his athletic career, he starts a non-profit which gets acquired by AARP and a start up software company that...
Jeremy’s story sounds like a fairy tale and while he’s extremely grateful for everything he’s accomplished, none of it came without trials and tribulations. The training it took to be a world class freestyle skier, college athlete and NFL player was constant. He was inches away from winning an Olympic gold medal. He was cut from two NFL teams. He was so focused on his athletic career, relationships sat on a back burner. He nearly threw in the towel on his start up when their capital was running out. Thankfully every time Jeremy encountered a roadblock, he recalibrated and found success.

Listen to his story here and find out how he made it all work with his book RECALIBRATE: Navigating the Winding Road to Success.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2532falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He chose the University of Illinois mostly because of the degree he would receive. The NFL wasn’t on his radar, and he had his sights set on a degree in broadcast journalism. After being first team All-Big 10 his sophomore and junior years, his focus changed and he left school early for the NFL draft.

The 49’ers chose him in the 4th round of the 2003 draft and from there Brandon started a career that would span a dozen years and involve many teams including the Denver Broncos. During the 2010 season in Denver, Brandon led the league in receiving yards, was an All-Pro and a Pro Bowler.

After football, Brandon finished his undergraduate degree and took it a step further with an MBA in 2022. He’s currently working in the insurance industry and being dad to two teenage boys.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57629337Tue, 14 Nov 2023 13:03:02 +0000Susie WarginAs the youngest of 7, Brandon Lloyd had a lot to live up to with successful older siblings and knew from a very young age he wanted to make a name for himself. The recognition started in high school as a stellar football and track athlete. Sure, he...
He chose the University of Illinois mostly because of the degree he would receive. The NFL wasn’t on his radar, and he had his sights set on a degree in broadcast journalism. After being first team All-Big 10 his sophomore and junior years, his focus changed and he left school early for the NFL draft.

The 49’ers chose him in the 4th round of the 2003 draft and from there Brandon started a career that would span a dozen years and involve many teams including the Denver Broncos. During the 2010 season in Denver, Brandon led the league in receiving yards, was an All-Pro and a Pro Bowler.

After football, Brandon finished his undergraduate degree and took it a step further with an MBA in 2022. He’s currently working in the insurance industry and being dad to two teenage boys.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3984falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Weston credits the CSU coaching staff for teaching him the techniques he needed and the mental toughness required to play on the offensive line and his position of center. His senior year, Weston was First Team all Mountain West, part of the Rams improbable win over Washington State at the New Mexico Bowl, an invitee to the Senior Bowl and the NFL Combine.

Weston had a rough start in the NFL: the NY Giants placed him at guard his rookie season. Eventually he became their starting center, snapping the ball to Eli Manning. After his four years in New York, Weston was a free agent and signed a nice deal with the San Fransisco 49ers where he started nearly 30 games over 3 seasons and also spent some time on injured reserve.

Weston retired in 2021 and is raising his two young children with his wife Marlee in Texas. In 2023, he was inducted into the Colorado State University Athletics Hall of Fame.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57542470Tue, 07 Nov 2023 12:16:35 +0000Susie WarginHe was drafted in the 2nd round of the 2013 NFL draft after graduating from Colorado State University, one of the few schools who offered him a scholarship out of high school. Weston Richburg didn’t play every season of football at Bushland High...
Weston credits the CSU coaching staff for teaching him the techniques he needed and the mental toughness required to play on the offensive line and his position of center. His senior year, Weston was First Team all Mountain West, part of the Rams improbable win over Washington State at the New Mexico Bowl, an invitee to the Senior Bowl and the NFL Combine.

Weston had a rough start in the NFL: the NY Giants placed him at guard his rookie season. Eventually he became their starting center, snapping the ball to Eli Manning. After his four years in New York, Weston was a free agent and signed a nice deal with the San Fransisco 49ers where he started nearly 30 games over 3 seasons and also spent some time on injured reserve.

Weston retired in 2021 and is raising his two young children with his wife Marlee in Texas. In 2023, he was inducted into the Colorado State University Athletics Hall of Fame.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>247049ers,csu,football,giants,podcast,richburg,sports,susie,wargin,westonfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Sean is a Colorado native who attended Cherry Creek High School and had his choice of colleges. He opted to stay close to home and don the Black & Gold in Boulder. He was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the 6th round of the 2004 NFL Draft and played off and on for 3 seasons due to injuries. He was 3 games shy of getting his NFL pension, but no teams were calling so Sean hung up his cleats.

After getting his MBA from CU, Sean took off in the real world. In 2011, he was on Forbes’ 30 under 30 list in the Energy category for his start up wind business. These days he’s in cybersecurity, raising two boys with his wife and is President of The Buffs4Life Foundation which provides help to former CU athletes and alumni with medical bills and access to mental health resources.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57456454Tue, 31 Oct 2023 11:49:59 +0000Susie WarginHis first go around at the University of Colorado was a success: Senior Captain, Big 12 Championship, Honor Roll and drafted in the NFL to name a few. In Sean Tufts second stint at CU, not only did he compete his MBA and was class President, he became...
Sean is a Colorado native who attended Cherry Creek High School and had his choice of colleges. He opted to stay close to home and don the Black & Gold in Boulder. He was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in the 6th round of the 2004 NFL Draft and played off and on for 3 seasons due to injuries. He was 3 games shy of getting his NFL pension, but no teams were calling so Sean hung up his cleats.

After getting his MBA from CU, Sean took off in the real world. In 2011, he was on Forbes’ 30 under 30 list in the Energy category for his start up wind business. These days he’s in cybersecurity, raising two boys with his wife and is President of The Buffs4Life Foundation which provides help to former CU athletes and alumni with medical bills and access to mental health resources.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2902boulder,carolina,colorado,creek,football,nfl,panthers,sean,susie,tufts,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Todd played high school football at a small school in California. His dad sent out tapes to everyone and anyone. Todd had his sights set on Stanford, until they told his dad they didn’t recruit in his area. That gave Todd all the motivation he needed. He took one of the few offers he did get and went to Sacramento State. He left as the school’s 2nd best tackler in program history (351 tackles).

The NFL draft came and went. The New Orleans Saints called because they needed “a body” for offseason training. Todd showed he was more than just a body and got noticed by Joe Vitt who promised he’d have a spot for Todd when training camp came around. Coach Vitt stood by his word.

The Broncos snagged him off waivers from the Saints in mid-October of his rookie season and Todd played several years in Denver, until he was released after a second calf injury. These days, Todd is in real estate development, co-hosts the DNVR Denver Broncos Podcast and is raising three kids with his wife Zina.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57366158Tue, 24 Oct 2023 11:40:18 +0000Susie WarginSome guys have the “storybook” path to the NFL: highly recruited out of college, invited to the NFL Combine and drafted. Not Todd Davis, he had to prove himself over and over again. Not only did he make it to the NFL, he stayed for several years and...
Todd played high school football at a small school in California. His dad sent out tapes to everyone and anyone. Todd had his sights set on Stanford, until they told his dad they didn’t recruit in his area. That gave Todd all the motivation he needed. He took one of the few offers he did get and went to Sacramento State. He left as the school’s 2nd best tackler in program history (351 tackles).

The NFL draft came and went. The New Orleans Saints called because they needed “a body” for offseason training. Todd showed he was more than just a body and got noticed by Joe Vitt who promised he’d have a spot for Todd when training camp came around. Coach Vitt stood by his word.

The Broncos snagged him off waivers from the Saints in mid-October of his rookie season and Todd played several years in Denver, until he was released after a second calf injury. These days, Todd is in real estate development, co-hosts the DNVR Denver Broncos Podcast and is raising three kids with his wife Zina.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2282football,nfl,podcast,sportsfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Of course, Caleb’s story is much more than one game. He was a standout high school athlete in Texas, hit numerous milestones as a tough quarterback at Colorado State University and after proving himself as a college free agent, spent several years in the NFL, including a season with the Broncos backing up Peyton Manning.

After the pros, Caleb entered the business world as an entrepreneur. Eventually he made his way into the financial industry where he found a niche helping guide college and pro athletes as a financial advisor with RBC Wealth Management.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57269237Tue, 17 Oct 2023 11:36:49 +0000Susie WarginMany NFL fans remember him as the quarterback that almost got the Bears into Super Bowl 45. Caleb Hanie was the 3rd string quarterback for Chicago when he was thrust into the NFC Championship Game against the Packers after halftime. Down 14-0, Caleb...
Of course, Caleb’s story is much more than one game. He was a standout high school athlete in Texas, hit numerous milestones as a tough quarterback at Colorado State University and after proving himself as a college free agent, spent several years in the NFL, including a season with the Broncos backing up Peyton Manning.

After the pros, Caleb entered the business world as an entrepreneur. Eventually he made his way into the financial industry where he found a niche helping guide college and pro athletes as a financial advisor with RBC Wealth Management.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2942falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
In 1990, while his college teammates were getting drafted by MLB teams, Mike got drafted by the Maimi Miracle, an independent minor league team, that basically utilized a never before used loophole to get players. He was baffled but kept playing and eventually got to the Montreal Expos, where he got his MLB debut and was also traded to the Rockies after 5 seasons. Mike expected that trade because it was typical of the Expos. What he didn’t expect was when Colorado traded him mid-season in 2000 to the Red Sox. He was shocked, but stayed professional and proved himself in Boston.

In retirement, Mike is a “girl dad” to a young adult and teenager, plays golf around the Denver area as often as he can and still loves talking baseball.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57188014Wed, 11 Oct 2023 03:13:32 +0000Susie WarginGrowing up in Casper Wyoming, Mike Lansing played every sport. He could have played football in college but opted to go the baseball route and chose Wichita State. Turned out to be a good move as the Shockers won their first ever College World Series...
In 1990, while his college teammates were getting drafted by MLB teams, Mike got drafted by the Maimi Miracle, an independent minor league team, that basically utilized a never before used loophole to get players. He was baffled but kept playing and eventually got to the Montreal Expos, where he got his MLB debut and was also traded to the Rockies after 5 seasons. Mike expected that trade because it was typical of the Expos. What he didn’t expect was when Colorado traded him mid-season in 2000 to the Red Sox. He was shocked, but stayed professional and proved himself in Boston.

In retirement, Mike is a “girl dad” to a young adult and teenager, plays golf around the Denver area as often as he can and still loves talking baseball.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3340baseball,colorado,expos,lansing,mike,mlb,rockies,susie,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
K.C. was born in Colorado and moved to Texas when he was 8. Everything is bigger in Texas, including K.C. who excelled on the offensive line. He had countless scholarship offers and opted for sunny Miami. Along with great weather came an always-ready-to-fight Hurricane team that included Ray Lewis and Warren Sapp who he faced daily in practice as the ‘Canes center.

Despite a great college career, he wasn’t drafted because of injuries throughout his high school and college careers. That meant he could try to make his dream come true and be a member of the Denver Broncos as a college free agent. He made the roster and was a member of Denver’s legendary offensive line and Super Bowl XXXIII team. He also continued to deal with too many injuries and was eventually cut by Mike Shanahan.

In retirement, K.C. got his degree and does financial planning. To get in touch with K.C., email him at info@kcjones.us

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/57043857Tue, 03 Oct 2023 11:34:48 +0000Susie WarginIn 1977, he proudly wore an “Orange Crush” T-shirt and dreamt of being a Denver Bronco someday. The dream came true for K.C. Jones and even included a Super Bowl Championship, but it didn’t last nearly as long as he had hoped. K.C. was born in...
K.C. was born in Colorado and moved to Texas when he was 8. Everything is bigger in Texas, including K.C. who excelled on the offensive line. He had countless scholarship offers and opted for sunny Miami. Along with great weather came an always-ready-to-fight Hurricane team that included Ray Lewis and Warren Sapp who he faced daily in practice as the ‘Canes center.

Despite a great college career, he wasn’t drafted because of injuries throughout his high school and college careers. That meant he could try to make his dream come true and be a member of the Denver Broncos as a college free agent. He made the roster and was a member of Denver’s legendary offensive line and Super Bowl XXXIII team. He also continued to deal with too many injuries and was eventually cut by Mike Shanahan.

In retirement, K.C. got his degree and does financial planning. To get in touch with K.C., email him at info@kcjones.us

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3427falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Brady was drafted 22nd overall by the Browns where he got his first NFL start and first benching. Cleveland traded him to the Broncos where he never played a regular season snap in his two seasons with Denver. He signed with the Chiefs in 2012, then in 2013, spent time with the Seahawks, Jets and Rams. He retired in 2014 after a short training camp sting with the Dolphins and went straight into broadcasting with zero experience.

He's been a quick learner. These days he is a daily co-host on the Fox Sports national radio show “Two Pros and a Cup of Joe” as well as an anchor on Fox’s Big Noon Kickoff. He dabbles in a number of other broadcasting ventures and when at home, he’s husband to USA Olympic gymnast Alicia Sacramone and father to their four children.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56941018Tue, 26 Sep 2023 11:56:23 +0000Susie WarginAfter a stellar career at Notre Dame, he was projected to be a high first round NFL draft pick in 2007. Brady Quinn and his family were invited to New York and his handsome face became a staple for camera “cutaways” during the draft broadcast. The...
Brady was drafted 22nd overall by the Browns where he got his first NFL start and first benching. Cleveland traded him to the Broncos where he never played a regular season snap in his two seasons with Denver. He signed with the Chiefs in 2012, then in 2013, spent time with the Seahawks, Jets and Rams. He retired in 2014 after a short training camp sting with the Dolphins and went straight into broadcasting with zero experience.

He's been a quick learner. These days he is a daily co-host on the Fox Sports national radio show “Two Pros and a Cup of Joe” as well as an anchor on Fox’s Big Noon Kickoff. He dabbles in a number of other broadcasting ventures and when at home, he’s husband to USA Olympic gymnast Alicia Sacramone and father to their four children.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>1966falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Darren McKee’s absence from afternoons on The Fan has created some “holes” in listeners’ daily routines. It also created a lot of support not only from listeners, but also (as DMac describes them) “The Muggles” – referring to the media and those who are gathered around at press conferences. Regardless of who or where the Denver media work, there is a strong bond, especially between those who have been around for a while.

So, for those of you missing DMac’s voice and wanting to hear a number of his stories in one sitting, here’s your chance. A full hour of Darren McKee about his journey through broadcasting and thoughts on reinvention after his latest firing.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56896580Fri, 22 Sep 2023 16:27:41 +0000Susie WarginHe’s been a friendly, entertaining and sometimes controversial voice in the Denver market for decades. He was the one constant who worked with several co-hosts. He immersed himself into the Denver sports scene when he was off the air to be more...
Darren McKee’s absence from afternoons on The Fan has created some “holes” in listeners’ daily routines. It also created a lot of support not only from listeners, but also (as DMac describes them) “The Muggles” – referring to the media and those who are gathered around at press conferences. Regardless of who or where the Denver media work, there is a strong bond, especially between those who have been around for a while.

So, for those of you missing DMac’s voice and wanting to hear a number of his stories in one sitting, here’s your chance. A full hour of Darren McKee about his journey through broadcasting and thoughts on reinvention after his latest firing.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3766falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He was drafted in a round that doesn’t exist anymore in the NFL (9th) and never saw the playing field with the team who picked him (the Colts). From Indi, he bounced around to the Bills, Chargers, Rams and Panthers before finally landing in Denver where he played fullback for five seasons. He blocked for Hall of Famer Terrel Davis, caught a number of clutch passes and scored a few touchdowns, including two in Super Bowl 33.

After he retired, Howard hopped over to the “dark side” and joined the media. Again, he paid his dues in the Denver market and then landed an analyst gig with the Big 10 Network where he’s been going strong for 17 years.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56860617Wed, 20 Sep 2023 00:08:19 +0000Susie WarginHoward Griffith has two Super Bowl rings to show for his NFL career, but the path to Denver wasn’t easy. A walk-on at the University of Illinois, Howard became a record-breaking team captain. One of those records was scoring EIGHT rushing touchdowns...
He was drafted in a round that doesn’t exist anymore in the NFL (9th) and never saw the playing field with the team who picked him (the Colts). From Indi, he bounced around to the Bills, Chargers, Rams and Panthers before finally landing in Denver where he played fullback for five seasons. He blocked for Hall of Famer Terrel Davis, caught a number of clutch passes and scored a few touchdowns, including two in Super Bowl 33.

After he retired, Howard hopped over to the “dark side” and joined the media. Again, he paid his dues in the Denver market and then landed an analyst gig with the Big 10 Network where he’s been going strong for 17 years.

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3195falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Not only did Ron make the Broncos roster in 1977, he went to their first Super Bowl that year. The Broncos got behind early in that game and Ron couldn’t make the impact he was hoping. But he was just a rookie and he thought getting to the Super Bowl was easy. He never made it back.

Ron did make an impact with the Broncos for several years, until Dan Reeves cut him out of the blue. He was shocked but signed nearly immediately with the Chargers where he spent another season as his career was winding down.

In retirement, Ron invested in and helped run the iconic Jackson’s Hole in Lakewood, Colorado for two decades. He also lent his name and marketing savvy to a couple of companies and continues to stay involved in the community as a board member of the Denver Broncos Alumni Association.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56774995Tue, 12 Sep 2023 11:35:19 +0000Susie WarginAfter a decent college career at the University of Wisconsin, Ron Egloff didn’t hear his name on draft day in 1977. Two teams reached out with invitations to try out in their camps: the Falcons and the Broncos. The tight end wasn’t fond of the heat,...
Not only did Ron make the Broncos roster in 1977, he went to their first Super Bowl that year. The Broncos got behind early in that game and Ron couldn’t make the impact he was hoping. But he was just a rookie and he thought getting to the Super Bowl was easy. He never made it back.

Ron did make an impact with the Broncos for several years, until Dan Reeves cut him out of the blue. He was shocked but signed nearly immediately with the Chargers where he spent another season as his career was winding down.

In retirement, Ron invested in and helped run the iconic Jackson’s Hole in Lakewood, Colorado for two decades. He also lent his name and marketing savvy to a couple of companies and continues to stay involved in the community as a board member of the Denver Broncos Alumni Association.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2384broncos,nflfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Tyler is a Colorado native who played football at Cherry Creek High School. He had several scholarship opportunities for college and chose the University of Colorado where his father also played football. After a great senior year on the offensive line for the Buffs, he was invited to the NFL Combine where he tripped and fell during the 40-yard dash. Needless to say, he went undrafted, but was invited to minicamp by 31 teams. He picked the Broncos where Mike Shanahan became a mentor for him. Unfortunately, Mike would be fired after Tyler’s rookie season.

The Broncos’ next coach, Josh McDaniels, cut Tyler in 2010. Over the next few years, he spent time with the Lions, Seahawks, Redskins, Falcons and landed back with the Broncos for the perfect finale to his career: a victory at Super Bowl 50.

In retirement, Tyler took a stab at radio where he has flourished. He’s worked for 3 different companies, sometimes by his choice, sometimes because others have decided his fate.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56697631Tue, 05 Sep 2023 11:25:23 +0000Susie WarginHe was the inspiration for this podcast. Nearly every day on the radio, Tyler Polumbus tells stories about his trials and tribulations in the NFL. One day his co-host remarked how his stories would make a great book called “How I Got Cut.” Susie...
Tyler is a Colorado native who played football at Cherry Creek High School. He had several scholarship opportunities for college and chose the University of Colorado where his father also played football. After a great senior year on the offensive line for the Buffs, he was invited to the NFL Combine where he tripped and fell during the 40-yard dash. Needless to say, he went undrafted, but was invited to minicamp by 31 teams. He picked the Broncos where Mike Shanahan became a mentor for him. Unfortunately, Mike would be fired after Tyler’s rookie season.

The Broncos’ next coach, Josh McDaniels, cut Tyler in 2010. Over the next few years, he spent time with the Lions, Seahawks, Redskins, Falcons and landed back with the Broncos for the perfect finale to his career: a victory at Super Bowl 50.

In retirement, Tyler took a stab at radio where he has flourished. He’s worked for 3 different companies, sometimes by his choice, sometimes because others have decided his fate.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3250falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Derek is a 5th generation Arvada, Colorado native. He won a state championship in high school at Pomona and was a freshman at CU when the Buffs won the National Championship. After a solid career at CU, the 6’7” offensive lineman went to the NFL Combine and was drafted by the Colts. He was bit by the injury bug for most of his time in Indi and was released after 3 seasons. After a stint in NFL Europe with the Rhein Fire, Derek got some game tape and came back to the states where he was briefly signed by the 49’ers then the Cardinals. Both teams told him he wasn’t good enough to play in the NFL anymore.

So Derek started retirement and has spent the majority of it in the sports supplement industry. He also met his wife Khara, who grew up in Boulder and played softball at Nebraska. They have two daughters who are currently college athletes themselves: Jordan plays softball at Colorado State and Ashley plays volleyball at Utah. For the record, Derek did get long time CU Coach Bill McCartney’s blessing to marry a girl who went to Nebraska.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56624788Tue, 29 Aug 2023 11:37:49 +0000Susie WarginHe played the sport he loved for over 2 decades and was eventually told by two NFL teams that he wasn’t good enough. Those words hurt, but Derek West didn’t allow football to be his only identity. Derek is a 5th generation Arvada, Colorado native. He...
Derek is a 5th generation Arvada, Colorado native. He won a state championship in high school at Pomona and was a freshman at CU when the Buffs won the National Championship. After a solid career at CU, the 6’7” offensive lineman went to the NFL Combine and was drafted by the Colts. He was bit by the injury bug for most of his time in Indi and was released after 3 seasons. After a stint in NFL Europe with the Rhein Fire, Derek got some game tape and came back to the states where he was briefly signed by the 49’ers then the Cardinals. Both teams told him he wasn’t good enough to play in the NFL anymore.

So Derek started retirement and has spent the majority of it in the sports supplement industry. He also met his wife Khara, who grew up in Boulder and played softball at Nebraska. They have two daughters who are currently college athletes themselves: Jordan plays softball at Colorado State and Ashley plays volleyball at Utah. For the record, Derek did get long time CU Coach Bill McCartney’s blessing to marry a girl who went to Nebraska.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2015falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
John had an outstanding career as a safety for CSU and went on to be drafted by the Tampa Bay Bucs where he played for four years and won a Super Bowl. The Super Bowl victory came after his second season, a season he almost didn’t have because John experienced a “freak out” of anxiety at the start of training camp and left. After a 10-day hiatus, where he received some invaluable mental encouragement from other pros, John returned and the Bucs welcomed him back. He’d play two more seasons with the Seattle Seahawks and called it quits after a nagging hamstring injury wouldn’t heal.

These days John runs a hunting ranch at Dismal River in the same town where he grew up. He’s also married to his college sweetheart Laura, and they keep up with three very athletic children who play sports at the pro, college and high school levels.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56554057Tue, 22 Aug 2023 12:20:21 +0000Susie WarginJohn Howell lived out a dream. He played 8-man football in a very small Nebraska town. Some folks scoffed when John set his sights on playing Division I football, specifically at Colorado State University. When he got a call to be the last person in...
John had an outstanding career as a safety for CSU and went on to be drafted by the Tampa Bay Bucs where he played for four years and won a Super Bowl. The Super Bowl victory came after his second season, a season he almost didn’t have because John experienced a “freak out” of anxiety at the start of training camp and left. After a 10-day hiatus, where he received some invaluable mental encouragement from other pros, John returned and the Bucs welcomed him back. He’d play two more seasons with the Seattle Seahawks and called it quits after a nagging hamstring injury wouldn’t heal.

These days John runs a hunting ranch at Dismal River in the same town where he grew up. He’s also married to his college sweetheart Laura, and they keep up with three very athletic children who play sports at the pro, college and high school levels.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3457falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Davy was born in Aurora and started playing soccer at the age of 6. He excelled at the sport and turned heads when he played for Rangeview High School as well as his club team. Three years before he graduated from Rangeview, Davy entered the Rapids Youth System and the MLS’s initiative worked perfectly: Davy became the Rapids first homegrown player when they signed him to their pro team in 2010. Turns out there was a lot going on in 2010: Davy was just 18, graduated from Rangeview, gave up a scholarship at the University of Washington to sign with the Rapids and the Rapids won the MLS Cup.

Trying to figure out professional sports at the age of 18 isn’t easy. Davy got through it and played for the Rapids, Phoenix FC and the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. Eventually injuries got the best of his young body and it was time to retire from a sport that had been his identity for nearly two decades. These days, Davy is a firefighter, with a very heartfelt reason behind his passion for helping people.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56476153Tue, 15 Aug 2023 12:24:16 +0000Susie WarginHe is literally the definition of a “Homegrown Player.” In the 2000’s, Major League Soccer started a Homegrown Player initiative which allowed clubs to develop their own youth players without exposing them to the MLS SuperDraft and thereby giving the...
Davy was born in Aurora and started playing soccer at the age of 6. He excelled at the sport and turned heads when he played for Rangeview High School as well as his club team. Three years before he graduated from Rangeview, Davy entered the Rapids Youth System and the MLS’s initiative worked perfectly: Davy became the Rapids first homegrown player when they signed him to their pro team in 2010. Turns out there was a lot going on in 2010: Davy was just 18, graduated from Rangeview, gave up a scholarship at the University of Washington to sign with the Rapids and the Rapids won the MLS Cup.

Trying to figure out professional sports at the age of 18 isn’t easy. Davy got through it and played for the Rapids, Phoenix FC and the Colorado Springs Switchbacks FC. Eventually injuries got the best of his young body and it was time to retire from a sport that had been his identity for nearly two decades. These days, Davy is a firefighter, with a very heartfelt reason behind his passion for helping people.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2119mls,rapids,soccerfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Thankfully a coach kept after him and convinced Alfred to come back out and promised he would be by his side and help him. Not only did that high school coach help him with football, he helped him navigate life. Alfred made sure that same coach saw Super Bowl 32 and 33.

While Alfred had incredible success at the University of Colorado and was a first-round draft pick in the NFL, he still faced many struggles during his time as a pro level including injuries, questionable coaching and guidance and a divorce. Life got a lot better when he signed with the Broncos in 1996.

Big Al has always considered Colorado his home and stayed true to that in retirement, entertaining fans on Denver TV and radio stations for years. These days he’s an afternoon co-host on KOA Colorado with Dave Logan and Ryan Edwards.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56402360Tue, 08 Aug 2023 11:41:17 +0000Susie WarginOne would assume that a 2-time All American, Butkus Award winner, National Champion and 2-time Super Bowl Champion played football his whole life. Not the case with Alfred Williams. He begrudgingly started playing in high school: Alfred wanted to be a...
Thankfully a coach kept after him and convinced Alfred to come back out and promised he would be by his side and help him. Not only did that high school coach help him with football, he helped him navigate life. Alfred made sure that same coach saw Super Bowl 32 and 33.

While Alfred had incredible success at the University of Colorado and was a first-round draft pick in the NFL, he still faced many struggles during his time as a pro level including injuries, questionable coaching and guidance and a divorce. Life got a lot better when he signed with the Broncos in 1996.

Big Al has always considered Colorado his home and stayed true to that in retirement, entertaining fans on Denver TV and radio stations for years. These days he’s an afternoon co-host on KOA Colorado with Dave Logan and Ryan Edwards.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>1958falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
So hockey was everywhere and Eric was good at it. He was drafted by the Maple Leafs in 1990 and made his professional debut in 1993. Soon after that, he was traded to the LA Kings where he roomed with Rob Blake, played with Wayne Gretzky and his coach was Barry Melrose. Life was amazing in LA. Until he was abruptly traded to the Colorado Avalanche, where his dad was now the General Manager. Once the shock wore off, Eric embraced his new teammates who had just won the Stanley Cup. He had success on the ice and all was good… until it wasn’t and he asked Pierre to send him back to LA. A quick decision Eric regrets making because Los Angeles wasn’t the same and neither was the rest of his NHL career.

After hockey, Eric spent time on coaching and front office staffs with a few teams including the Avalanche. These days, he runs a hockey camp, a foundation and does TV work for Altitude. He is also husband to Jill and dad to three active kids, including two hockey players.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56334862Tue, 01 Aug 2023 11:22:44 +0000Susie WarginIt wasn’t just an ice rink on every corner and growing up in Montreal that put Eric Lacroix on the ice at age 5. His affection for a stick and puck was also influenced by some guys who hung around his house like Patrick Roy, Michel Goulet, Pierre and...
So hockey was everywhere and Eric was good at it. He was drafted by the Maple Leafs in 1990 and made his professional debut in 1993. Soon after that, he was traded to the LA Kings where he roomed with Rob Blake, played with Wayne Gretzky and his coach was Barry Melrose. Life was amazing in LA. Until he was abruptly traded to the Colorado Avalanche, where his dad was now the General Manager. Once the shock wore off, Eric embraced his new teammates who had just won the Stanley Cup. He had success on the ice and all was good… until it wasn’t and he asked Pierre to send him back to LA. A quick decision Eric regrets making because Los Angeles wasn’t the same and neither was the rest of his NHL career.

After hockey, Eric spent time on coaching and front office staffs with a few teams including the Avalanche. These days, he runs a hockey camp, a foundation and does TV work for Altitude. He is also husband to Jill and dad to three active kids, including two hockey players.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2609hockey,lacroix,nhl,podcast,sportsfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He learned the game quick and by the end of high school had multiple big-name schools knocking on his door. He chose Michigan where he turned heads on the football field and graduated with a Political Science and Communications degree. He wouldn’t need the degree for a while because the Broncos drafted him in 1980 and Mike found himself in a defensive backfield with Louis Wright, Billy Thompson and Steve Foley. For 9 seasons he taunted Broncos opponents at cornerback, safety and free safety racking up 33 interceptions, 4 touchdowns and 11 fumble recoveries. In 1989, he was cut and picked up by the Raiders where he had 5 picks and 3 fumble recoveries over 2 seasons.

Mike’s body told him it was time to be done after the 1990 season and he tried a variety of professions including the restaurant business and real estate. He also started to live a little too large and got into legal trouble for fraud. While serving time in a halfway house, Mike realized he needed to head in a different direction. He got his master’s degree and for 8 years counseled people dealing with addition at the Serenity at Stout Street Foundation. He’s completely retired now and serves on the board of the Denver Broncos Alumni Association.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56211172Tue, 25 Jul 2023 11:49:38 +0000Susie WarginIt's hard to believe a 2-time All-Big 10 safety who was a part of four Rose Bowls and two Super Bowls didn’t have football on his radar until high school. Mike Harden loved track growing up and his speed was impressive. So much so, when he was in 9th...
He learned the game quick and by the end of high school had multiple big-name schools knocking on his door. He chose Michigan where he turned heads on the football field and graduated with a Political Science and Communications degree. He wouldn’t need the degree for a while because the Broncos drafted him in 1980 and Mike found himself in a defensive backfield with Louis Wright, Billy Thompson and Steve Foley. For 9 seasons he taunted Broncos opponents at cornerback, safety and free safety racking up 33 interceptions, 4 touchdowns and 11 fumble recoveries. In 1989, he was cut and picked up by the Raiders where he had 5 picks and 3 fumble recoveries over 2 seasons.

Mike’s body told him it was time to be done after the 1990 season and he tried a variety of professions including the restaurant business and real estate. He also started to live a little too large and got into legal trouble for fraud. While serving time in a halfway house, Mike realized he needed to head in a different direction. He got his master’s degree and for 8 years counseled people dealing with addition at the Serenity at Stout Street Foundation. He’s completely retired now and serves on the board of the Denver Broncos Alumni Association.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2749falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Zack Golditch did not allow July 20, 2012 to deter his football goals or his new aspiration to be a first responder. The offensive lineman had committed to Colorado State University just 8 days prior to the shooting. He loved playing for the Rams and was named First Team All Mountain West his senior year. His NFL career was short but he rolled with the punches on four different teams his rookie season. He was out of the NLF after training camp his second year.

Then Zack started his next mission: to be a firefighter and give back to his community. He’s currently a South Metro Firefighter and has helped the 7/20 Foundation start the Hero’s Journey 5K in Aurora every July to raise money for a scholarship fund benefiting first generation college students from Aurora Public Schools. To donate to Zack’s scholarship fund, visit Aurora Public Schools Foundation and specify Zack Golditch Scholarship in the notes.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56137496Tue, 18 Jul 2023 11:37:49 +0000Susie WarginHis football story is like many others: a star high school athlete who receives multiple college scholarships offers, gets into the NFL as an undrafted NFL free agent and is out of the league in a year or so. His personal story is unlike anyone...
Zack Golditch did not allow July 20, 2012 to deter his football goals or his new aspiration to be a first responder. The offensive lineman had committed to Colorado State University just 8 days prior to the shooting. He loved playing for the Rams and was named First Team All Mountain West his senior year. His NFL career was short but he rolled with the punches on four different teams his rookie season. He was out of the NLF after training camp his second year.

Then Zack started his next mission: to be a firefighter and give back to his community. He’s currently a South Metro Firefighter and has helped the 7/20 Foundation start the Hero’s Journey 5K in Aurora every July to raise money for a scholarship fund benefiting first generation college students from Aurora Public Schools. To donate to Zack’s scholarship fund, visit Aurora Public Schools Foundation and specify Zack Golditch Scholarship in the notes.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2916falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Steve played 5 seasons in Denver and went to the playoffs twice. He was coming off what he felt was a solid year when the Broncos finished 11-5 in 1985 and Reeves called him into his office. He was trading Steve to the Rams where he would be reunited with his college head coach John Robinson. Steve wasn’t happy about leaving Denver but liked the idea of playing for Robinson again. It didn’t last long. A few games into the 1986 season, Steve tore his ACL and was done for the year. He tried to come back in 1987 but his knee wasn’t the same.

After he retired, Steve heard about a Denver glass company that was going out of business. He had just enough money to buy the business. With zero knowledge about windows or running a business, Steve hired the right people and built Busick Insulated Glass into a very successful company that has been going strong for over 3 decades.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/56060333Tue, 11 Jul 2023 10:20:42 +0000Susie WarginWhen Broncos first year head coach Dan Reeves drafted him in 1981, Steve Busick had already played with some big-name defensive teammates at USC: Clay Matthews, Ronnie Lott, Dennis Smith and Jeff Fisher to name a few. During his college career, the...
Steve played 5 seasons in Denver and went to the playoffs twice. He was coming off what he felt was a solid year when the Broncos finished 11-5 in 1985 and Reeves called him into his office. He was trading Steve to the Rams where he would be reunited with his college head coach John Robinson. Steve wasn’t happy about leaving Denver but liked the idea of playing for Robinson again. It didn’t last long. A few games into the 1986 season, Steve tore his ACL and was done for the year. He tried to come back in 1987 but his knee wasn’t the same.

After he retired, Steve heard about a Denver glass company that was going out of business. He had just enough money to buy the business. With zero knowledge about windows or running a business, Steve hired the right people and built Busick Insulated Glass into a very successful company that has been going strong for over 3 decades.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>1822falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He started coaching soon after getting his graduate degree from CSU and landed back at San Diego Mesa. Over the next 34 years, Steve coached every offensive position aside from the O-line with nearly a dozen teams. He was also the Offensive Coordinator at a few stops. His lone head coaching job came at his alma matter CSU when he took over for the fired Sonny Lubick in 2008. Taking over for a legend is tough and Steve’s overall record of 16-33 didn’t help his longevity. He was fired in 2011. It wasn’t the first time he was fired as a coach, and he learned a lot every time he was let go.

These days, Steve still coaches but on a much more personal level with his Fairchild QB Training where he works one on one with aspiring young quarterbacks.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/55302380Tue, 27 Jun 2023 22:39:23 +0000Susie WarginBefore he was a football coach in college and the NFL, Steve Fairchild was a player. He wasn’t recruited out of high school, but after spending a couple of successful seasons at San Diego Mesa Community College, big schools started calling. He opted...
He started coaching soon after getting his graduate degree from CSU and landed back at San Diego Mesa. Over the next 34 years, Steve coached every offensive position aside from the O-line with nearly a dozen teams. He was also the Offensive Coordinator at a few stops. His lone head coaching job came at his alma matter CSU when he took over for the fired Sonny Lubick in 2008. Taking over for a legend is tough and Steve’s overall record of 16-33 didn’t help his longevity. He was fired in 2011. It wasn’t the first time he was fired as a coach, and he learned a lot every time he was let go.

These days, Steve still coaches but on a much more personal level with his Fairchild QB Training where he works one on one with aspiring young quarterbacks.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2200falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Growing up Bill was an athlete and lacrosse came after football and several other sports. He eventually picked up a stick to help a friend hone his skills. After college, he got into coaching and quickly reached his only goal: to be his high school’s head football coach. From there new goals were set and Bill moved to the college ranks. He mostly coached lacrosse, however at Johns Hopkins, he also coached soccer (a sport he admittedly knew nothing about) and that team won. He started a family with Helen and two of their four children played for Bill at Princeton. He figured out how to coach anyone and everyone and be successful.

Bill retired from coaching in 2023. He has already done some media work and will undoubtedly do more. He plans to stay around Denver for now… until Helen picks the next adventure. It’s her turn.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/54550197Tue, 20 Jun 2023 12:12:52 +0000Susie WarginHe went into the National Lacrosse Hall of Fame in 2002. That was during his 20-year stint as the head coach of Princeton men’s lacrosse team. Bill Tierney could have just sailed away with his HOF status and several other accolades, but he wanted...
Growing up Bill was an athlete and lacrosse came after football and several other sports. He eventually picked up a stick to help a friend hone his skills. After college, he got into coaching and quickly reached his only goal: to be his high school’s head football coach. From there new goals were set and Bill moved to the college ranks. He mostly coached lacrosse, however at Johns Hopkins, he also coached soccer (a sport he admittedly knew nothing about) and that team won. He started a family with Helen and two of their four children played for Bill at Princeton. He figured out how to coach anyone and everyone and be successful.

Bill retired from coaching in 2023. He has already done some media work and will undoubtedly do more. He plans to stay around Denver for now… until Helen picks the next adventure. It’s her turn.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2574denver,lacrosse,tierneyfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Clint bounced around several teams as a player and when he retired in 1987, he when straight into coaching. He also kept drinking. Two marriages and one daughter later, Clint decided to get sober in 1999. At the time he was the Rockies hitting instructor. Sobriety brought Clint a third marriage (going on 23 years), two more children and a transition into being a manager for the Rockies and Pirates for a total of 17 seasons. Today he continues to help the Rockies as a Special Assistant to the GM where he works with Colorado’s four minor league teams.

He's faced a lot: being an alcoholic, divorced twice, a child with a birth defect and countless ups and downs in baseball. Yet through it all he remains positive and committed to giving. Clint sends out daily emails, both Devotional and Encouraging. Sign up to receive either or both at ClintHurdle.com. To find out more about Prader Willi Syndrome, visit pwsausa.org.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/54351042Tue, 13 Jun 2023 12:58:22 +0000Susie WarginOn the cover of Sports Illustrated in 1978, he was labeled “This Year’s Phenom.” Sounds great, unless you’re a 21-year-old without the skills to handle the pressure and scrutiny from the media, teammates, other players and fans. It didn’t help when...
Clint bounced around several teams as a player and when he retired in 1987, he when straight into coaching. He also kept drinking. Two marriages and one daughter later, Clint decided to get sober in 1999. At the time he was the Rockies hitting instructor. Sobriety brought Clint a third marriage (going on 23 years), two more children and a transition into being a manager for the Rockies and Pirates for a total of 17 seasons. Today he continues to help the Rockies as a Special Assistant to the GM where he works with Colorado’s four minor league teams.

He's faced a lot: being an alcoholic, divorced twice, a child with a birth defect and countless ups and downs in baseball. Yet through it all he remains positive and committed to giving. Clint sends out daily emails, both Devotional and Encouraging. Sign up to receive either or both at ClintHurdle.com. To find out more about Prader Willi Syndrome, visit pwsausa.org.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2986baseball,clint,hurdle,mlbfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Unlike most coaches, Ceal was never fired, however she did step down from her basketball post at CU in April of 2005 and took a position in CU’s athletic administration. She found a new passion for helping student athletes in multiple sports and left the department in a far better place when she retired in July of 2020.

These days, Ceal splits time between Boulder and Florida and tries to avoid injuring herself while playing what is no doubt a highly competitive game of pickleball.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/54112216Tue, 06 Jun 2023 11:40:19 +0000Susie WarginYou won’t find anyone else like her. At her Catholic high school and later in college at Kentucky, she competed at a high level in sports - even before Title IX was in full force. At age 23 she landed her first head coaching gig at Cincinnati. Four...
Unlike most coaches, Ceal was never fired, however she did step down from her basketball post at CU in April of 2005 and took a position in CU’s athletic administration. She found a new passion for helping student athletes in multiple sports and left the department in a far better place when she retired in July of 2020.

These days, Ceal splits time between Boulder and Florida and tries to avoid injuring herself while playing what is no doubt a highly competitive game of pickleball.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2448falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
After his career was over, Chuck had a hand in a couple of successful businesses, neither of which had to do with his undergrad and graduate degrees of Physical Education. Reinvention can be anything you want it to be.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/54044238Tue, 30 May 2023 17:53:08 +0000Susie WarginHe was an athletic legend at East High School in Denver as well as the University of Colorado, which is why he’s in both of their Hall of Fames. Chuck Williams was also a journeyman through the ABA and NBA in the late 1960’s and into the 1970’s, but...
After his career was over, Chuck had a hand in a couple of successful businesses, neither of which had to do with his undergrad and graduate degrees of Physical Education. Reinvention can be anything you want it to be.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2259falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Brad caught on with Indianapolis as an undrafted free agent in 2003 and stayed with the Colts for three seasons, again learning and watching some of the best players and coaches. Unfortunately, the injuries piled up in the NFL just like they did in college. After leaving the Colts, he played a couple seasons with Elway’s Colorado Crush Arena team and was done… with football.

After football, the business side of Brad took over and he started MusclePharm which grew to a $170 million a year business with big-name endorsers. A couple years before he left to start more business ventures, Brad became the head coach of his alma mater in 2014. When he interviewed for the job, he presented a 10-year plan to bring A-West football back to what it was when he played. It’s working.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53969293Tue, 23 May 2023 11:29:56 +0000Susie WarginHe's been a teammate, player or business associate with some of the biggest names in sports: Peyton Manning, Tony Dungy, John Elway, Tiger Woods and Arnold Schwarzenegger to name a few. Throughout Brad Pyatt’s football career he networked and learned...
Brad caught on with Indianapolis as an undrafted free agent in 2003 and stayed with the Colts for three seasons, again learning and watching some of the best players and coaches. Unfortunately, the injuries piled up in the NFL just like they did in college. After leaving the Colts, he played a couple seasons with Elway’s Colorado Crush Arena team and was done… with football.

After football, the business side of Brad took over and he started MusclePharm which grew to a $170 million a year business with big-name endorsers. A couple years before he left to start more business ventures, Brad became the head coach of his alma mater in 2014. When he interviewed for the job, he presented a 10-year plan to bring A-West football back to what it was when he played. It’s working.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2792falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
After leaving the NFL, Bo went back to school and received his MBA which has come in handy starting a business in the cannabis industry, All Pro Farms. Bo has a vision for his farm in Southern Colorado and while he works on that vision, consumers can purchase All Pro Farms “mood” products at stores throughout Colorado. Pick your mood and All Pro Farms has a flower for it.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53887778Tue, 16 May 2023 11:39:32 +0000Susie WarginBo Scaife is a Denver native who grew up playing several sports and credits Tae Kwan Do for teaching him discipline. Eventually football and baseball became his favorites at Mullen High School and in 1999, the tight end helped the Mustangs to a 5A...
After leaving the NFL, Bo went back to school and received his MBA which has come in handy starting a business in the cannabis industry, All Pro Farms. Bo has a vision for his farm in Southern Colorado and while he works on that vision, consumers can purchase All Pro Farms “mood” products at stores throughout Colorado. Pick your mood and All Pro Farms has a flower for it.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3259falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
At the age of 9, Jarvis Moss set his sights on playing in the NFL. He achieved that goal as the Denver Broncos first round draft pick in 2007. Mike Shanahan even moved up to get the defensive end coming off a BCS Championship with Florida under Urban Meyer. Everyone had high expectations for Jarvis, including himself. Afterall, he’d made it through so much get to the NFL. For instance, when he was being recruited in high school, Jarvis stepped onto a plane for the first time and went by himself for his college visits. Not because his parents didn’t support him, but because they were both incarcerated.

The NFL was tough. His rookie season, Jarvis broke his shin, went on injured reserve and to top off the pressure meter, became a dad. In November of 2010, he was cut and when he was done with football a year later, he was disgruntled with the game and wanted nothing to do with it. Until his son started playing. Today, Jarvis is an assistant coach at Cherry Creek High School where Noah is a freshman. He also helps coach with Phenom Academy a sports academy within the Phenom Phoundation, a non-profit organization.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53789740Tue, 09 May 2023 11:20:49 +0000Susie WarginHe was always the best. Until Josh McDaniels told him he wasn’t. At the age of 9, Jarvis Moss set his sights on playing in the NFL. He achieved that goal as the Denver Broncos first round draft pick in 2007. Mike Shanahan even moved up to get the...
At the age of 9, Jarvis Moss set his sights on playing in the NFL. He achieved that goal as the Denver Broncos first round draft pick in 2007. Mike Shanahan even moved up to get the defensive end coming off a BCS Championship with Florida under Urban Meyer. Everyone had high expectations for Jarvis, including himself. Afterall, he’d made it through so much get to the NFL. For instance, when he was being recruited in high school, Jarvis stepped onto a plane for the first time and went by himself for his college visits. Not because his parents didn’t support him, but because they were both incarcerated.

The NFL was tough. His rookie season, Jarvis broke his shin, went on injured reserve and to top off the pressure meter, became a dad. In November of 2010, he was cut and when he was done with football a year later, he was disgruntled with the game and wanted nothing to do with it. Until his son started playing. Today, Jarvis is an assistant coach at Cherry Creek High School where Noah is a freshman. He also helps coach with Phenom Academy a sports academy within the Phenom Phoundation, a non-profit organization.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2428broncos,denver,florida,jarvis,moss,raidersfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
In retirement, Dave works as a gas and electric utility broker for Last Mile Advisors, co-owns Bandit Energy Solutions and is the pitching coach at Cherry Creek High School in Denver. He’s also added “Grandpa” to his list of family titles.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53715755Tue, 02 May 2023 11:32:25 +0000Susie Wargin“I think I’ll join the Air Force just like my dad.” That was Dave Veres’ plan after high school when he didn’t have a single offer from a college and figured his baseball career was done. Then a phone call came from a junior college coach and his path...
In retirement, Dave works as a gas and electric utility broker for Last Mile Advisors, co-owns Bandit Energy Solutions and is the pitching coach at Cherry Creek High School in Denver. He’s also added “Grandpa” to his list of family titles.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2874falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
After he was cut, Reggie continued to write (something he’d done since high school), worked in radio and also in TV. From there, he moved into a successful keynote speaking career and wrote several books. Then, a little over a decade ago, he found what he calls his true purpose: helping non-profits raise money with a company he formed called The Gala Team. From just a few events the first year, Reggie’s team now works with hundreds of non-profit organizations each year and they are starting to expand beyond Colorado. Continuous reinvention at its best!

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53640244Tue, 25 Apr 2023 11:23:02 +0000Susie WarginBorn into a military family, Reggie Rivers learned how to adapt to new situations early. Not only did he move from state to state, he also spent time in foreign countries where he found one common language: sports. During his high school years, he...
After he was cut, Reggie continued to write (something he’d done since high school), worked in radio and also in TV. From there, he moved into a successful keynote speaking career and wrote several books. Then, a little over a decade ago, he found what he calls his true purpose: helping non-profits raise money with a company he formed called The Gala Team. From just a few events the first year, Reggie’s team now works with hundreds of non-profit organizations each year and they are starting to expand beyond Colorado. Continuous reinvention at its best!

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2368falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
These days, Mike is a liaison for MLB’s Player’s Association – a job he saw a need for as a player because he never fully understood the ins and outs of the business. The job didn’t exist when Mike retired, so he went to the MLBPA in New York and presented his thoughts. They created the job and now Mike, along with two others, split up the league and spend the season reaching out and educating players about their rights, the Collective Bargaining Agreement and much more.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53569668Tue, 18 Apr 2023 11:34:35 +0000Susie WarginMike Myers loves a challenge. Thank goodness, because the pitcher’s resume is filled with 10 different teams: Giants, Marlins, Tigers, Brewers, Rockies, Diamondbacks, Mariners, Red Sox, Yankees and White Sox. He was in the majors with most of those...
These days, Mike is a liaison for MLB’s Player’s Association – a job he saw a need for as a player because he never fully understood the ins and outs of the business. The job didn’t exist when Mike retired, so he went to the MLBPA in New York and presented his thoughts. They created the job and now Mike, along with two others, split up the league and spend the season reaching out and educating players about their rights, the Collective Bargaining Agreement and much more.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2929falsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
David was having his best season in 2015, with arguably one of the best Broncos defenses in history, when he broke his fibula during a game in November. He kept playing, thinking it was just a contusion. The next day he was placed on injured reserve. By February of 2016, his fibula was healed, however, since he had been placed on IR, he wasn’t able to play in the Broncos Super Bowl 50 Championship. The next season he signed with Washington, found himself on injured reserve again after his 6th career concussion and retired the following summer.

After retiring, David went back to school and earned a doctorate from CU in Physical Therapy. He now runs his own clinic, Between the Lines Physical Therapy and still is very involved in his non-profit Bruton’s Books.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53501920Tue, 11 Apr 2023 12:32:07 +0000Susie WarginHe's the perfect example of how school and sports can coexist and be successful. David Bruton Jr. graduated with a double major in Political Science and Sociology from Notre Dame. He was also a starting safety for the Fighting Irish his junior and...
David was having his best season in 2015, with arguably one of the best Broncos defenses in history, when he broke his fibula during a game in November. He kept playing, thinking it was just a contusion. The next day he was placed on injured reserve. By February of 2016, his fibula was healed, however, since he had been placed on IR, he wasn’t able to play in the Broncos Super Bowl 50 Championship. The next season he signed with Washington, found himself on injured reserve again after his 6th career concussion and retired the following summer.

After retiring, David went back to school and earned a doctorate from CU in Physical Therapy. He now runs his own clinic, Between the Lines Physical Therapy and still is very involved in his non-profit Bruton’s Books.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2792broncos,football,sportsfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
After his concussion, Michel had to relearn many basic skills and while he hoped he could return to hockey, his coordination was so off, he had to retire. He soon became the Director of Player Personnel for the Avalanche and was part of their Stanley Cup runs in 1996 and 2001. Michel also served as a scout for the Calgary Flames and Anaheim Ducks.


Hosted by Susie Wargin


To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53438845Tue, 04 Apr 2023 11:44:33 +0000Susie WarginHe's in the Hockey Hall of Fame, his jersey is retired and he holds a franchise record for goals scored in a single season (57). All that and you still may not recognize his name. Michel Goulet is too humble to boast about his incredible 15 years in...
After his concussion, Michel had to relearn many basic skills and while he hoped he could return to hockey, his coordination was so off, he had to retire. He soon became the Director of Player Personnel for the Avalanche and was part of their Stanley Cup runs in 1996 and 2001. Michel also served as a scout for the Calgary Flames and Anaheim Ducks.


Hosted by Susie Wargin


To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2456goulet,hockey,michel,nhlfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
After retirement, Mark tried his hand at scouting and coaching with the Nuggets. He enjoyed scouting, but with a family the traveling was tough. He also enjoyed coaching, however he was fired from that job after one year with no reason given. He was then offered an ambassador job with the Nuggets which he did for many years and loved getting out into the community with other alums and/or current players. Currently, Mark continues to be a Nuggets ambassador in between his full-time job as a District Manager of High School Athletics for Denver Public Schools.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53365055Tue, 28 Mar 2023 12:11:04 +0000Susie WarginWhen Michael Jordan wrote about Mark Randall’s release from the Chicago Bulls in his book, the first round draft pick was ticked. But he also realized the underlying reason he was so mad: he was told in front of the Bull’s owner, GM, head coach and...
After retirement, Mark tried his hand at scouting and coaching with the Nuggets. He enjoyed scouting, but with a family the traveling was tough. He also enjoyed coaching, however he was fired from that job after one year with no reason given. He was then offered an ambassador job with the Nuggets which he did for many years and loved getting out into the community with other alums and/or current players. Currently, Mark continues to be a Nuggets ambassador in between his full-time job as a District Manager of High School Athletics for Denver Public Schools.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2832basketball,nuggets,podcast,sportsfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Thankfully, his dad’s words stayed in his head, and he turned around on the steps of the admissions office at U of A and all of the above did happen… and then some. It was a grind, but with the support of his wife Wendy and many others along the way, Jeff Huson played for 6 major league teams starting with his MLB debut with the Expos in 1988 and wrapping up in 2000 after a season with the Cubs. After his playing days, Jeff coached for a few years. In 2006, his name was thrown in the mix for the Rockies TV color analyst job. He auditioned, got the gig and for hundreds of games every year, brings his impressive amount of experience and knowledge to the broadcast.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53280929Tue, 21 Mar 2023 11:33:45 +0000Susie Wargin“I don’t want you to look back on this in 5 or 10 years and wish you would have tried to play baseball.” What if Jeff Huson’s dad hadn’t said that to him as he walked out the door to start school with his friends at the University of Arizona? Chances...
Thankfully, his dad’s words stayed in his head, and he turned around on the steps of the admissions office at U of A and all of the above did happen… and then some. It was a grind, but with the support of his wife Wendy and many others along the way, Jeff Huson played for 6 major league teams starting with his MLB debut with the Expos in 1988 and wrapping up in 2000 after a season with the Cubs. After his playing days, Jeff coached for a few years. In 2006, his name was thrown in the mix for the Rockies TV color analyst job. He auditioned, got the gig and for hundreds of games every year, brings his impressive amount of experience and knowledge to the broadcast.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2510angels,baseball,brewers,cubs,expos,mariners,mlb,orioles,rangers,rockiesfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
The Broncos didn’t even have him on their radar in 1975, but after a Broncos assistant bet a steak dinner with then-Broncos GM & Head Coach John Randal that Rick would be the AFC Offensive Rookie of the Year, they drafted him in the 4th round. John lost the bet. But he won big with Rick, a guy who showed no fear as a return specialist and could also catch and run with the ball. Rick’s list of accolades is long. He’s one of only 29 NFL players on two All Decade Teams (1970 & 1980). A 5-time All Pro. A 4-time Pro Bowler. The Broncos 50th Anniversary Team. Broncos Ring of Famer. University of Minnesota Athletics Hall of Fame. Not to mention, he’s a darn good person with a great story who made countless Broncos fans yell and scream whenever his hands touched the football.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53206161Wed, 15 Mar 2023 02:24:13 +0000Susie WarginRaised by his grandparents and later foster parents, Rick Upchurch had his share of ups and downs growing up, however there was no denying the love and support he received from his family and his community in Holland, Ohio. From his grandparents...
The Broncos didn’t even have him on their radar in 1975, but after a Broncos assistant bet a steak dinner with then-Broncos GM & Head Coach John Randal that Rick would be the AFC Offensive Rookie of the Year, they drafted him in the 4th round. John lost the bet. But he won big with Rick, a guy who showed no fear as a return specialist and could also catch and run with the ball. Rick’s list of accolades is long. He’s one of only 29 NFL players on two All Decade Teams (1970 & 1980). A 5-time All Pro. A 4-time Pro Bowler. The Broncos 50th Anniversary Team. Broncos Ring of Famer. University of Minnesota Athletics Hall of Fame. Not to mention, he’s a darn good person with a great story who made countless Broncos fans yell and scream whenever his hands touched the football.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2347broncos,football,sportsfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
When he became their head coach in 1997, it was quite the opposite: his team won just 11 games, a record that is currently tied for 4th worst NBA regular season record. He was fired after one season. During his playing and coaching days, Bill started and grew the Gold Crown Foundation. What began as a basketball camp for 150 girls has grown into a multitude of camps in a variety of sports for thousands of young people. While Gold Crown is Bill’s passion and mission, he also loves his long-time gig as an analyst for the Nuggets on Altitude TV.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/53121407Tue, 07 Mar 2023 14:07:29 +0000Susie WarginDespite playing basketball at three different high schools, Bill Hanzlik still stood out and had many options for playing at the next level. He chose Notre Dame where he played for four years and earned an engineering degree. Bill helped the Fighting...
When he became their head coach in 1997, it was quite the opposite: his team won just 11 games, a record that is currently tied for 4th worst NBA regular season record. He was fired after one season. During his playing and coaching days, Bill started and grew the Gold Crown Foundation. What began as a basketball camp for 150 girls has grown into a multitude of camps in a variety of sports for thousands of young people. While Gold Crown is Bill’s passion and mission, he also loves his long-time gig as an analyst for the Nuggets on Altitude TV.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>1646basketball,nuggets,olympics,sports,supersonics,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
“Spilly” was born in Santa Barbara and stayed close to home for his college baseball career, mostly because all the other schools wanted him to walk on. At UC Santa Barbara, he was on scholarship, but quickly realized the work he needed to put in to actually play.

In 2002, the Colorado Rockies drafted him in the 7th round thanks to a Rockies’ scout (Billy Eppler, now GM of the NY Mets) who was in Long Beach for some surfing and happened to watch Ryan hit an improbable home run for the Gauchos against Long Beach State. From there he toiled in the Rockies’ minor league system for a few years and made trusting friendships with guys he’d eventually play with in The Show, like Troy Tulowitzki, Garrett Atkins and Corey Sullivan to name a few. Spilly made his MLB debut on July 16, 2005. He played one game and was back to AAA. He returned in 2006 and hit his first home run. In 2007 he was an integral part of the Rockies’ crazy regular season ending and playoff run which brought them to the World Series.

After becoming a free agent in 2011, Spilly knocked around a few other teams including internationally for a couple years. In 2014, he joined the Rockies TV Broadcast crew as an analyst, a gig he still enjoys today, along with being a dad to two and husband to Stacey. Follow Spilly on Twitter @SpillyGoat19

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52876166Tue, 28 Feb 2023 12:46:20 +0000Susie WarginHe estimates he played on 40 teams from T-Ball to the Big Leagues and was the best player on about 10 of those teams. If that’s the case, how did Ryan Spilborghs make an MLB roster and spend over a decade in professional baseball? Because he just kept...
“Spilly” was born in Santa Barbara and stayed close to home for his college baseball career, mostly because all the other schools wanted him to walk on. At UC Santa Barbara, he was on scholarship, but quickly realized the work he needed to put in to actually play.

In 2002, the Colorado Rockies drafted him in the 7th round thanks to a Rockies’ scout (Billy Eppler, now GM of the NY Mets) who was in Long Beach for some surfing and happened to watch Ryan hit an improbable home run for the Gauchos against Long Beach State. From there he toiled in the Rockies’ minor league system for a few years and made trusting friendships with guys he’d eventually play with in The Show, like Troy Tulowitzki, Garrett Atkins and Corey Sullivan to name a few. Spilly made his MLB debut on July 16, 2005. He played one game and was back to AAA. He returned in 2006 and hit his first home run. In 2007 he was an integral part of the Rockies’ crazy regular season ending and playoff run which brought them to the World Series.

After becoming a free agent in 2011, Spilly knocked around a few other teams including internationally for a couple years. In 2014, he joined the Rockies TV Broadcast crew as an analyst, a gig he still enjoys today, along with being a dad to two and husband to Stacey. Follow Spilly on Twitter @SpillyGoat19

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2046baseball,mlb,podcast,rockies,spilborghs,sports,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Dan still holds the record as the all-time leading scorer at Kentucky, a record he set in 1970 that will likely never be broken. After college Dan played in the ABA and set the league on fire as the 1971 ABA Rookie of the Year and scoring champ, the 1972 ABA All Star Game MVP, ABA Champion in 1975 and 6-time ABA All-Star. After he was sold (yes sold) to the Nuggets and the ABA & NBA merged, Dan added another All-Star appearance to his name as a member of the NBA. His #44 jersey is one of 7 retired Nuggets jerseys.

After his playing days were over, Dan had two stints coaching the Nuggets, both of which ended with resignations. In retirement, Dan is now enjoying life in the Denver area with wife of over 50 years, Cheri, his two adult children and 5 grandchildren. He also co-hosts a radio show on ESPN Radio in Louisville. Dan is a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, the College Basketball Hall of Fame and the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52804908Tue, 21 Feb 2023 18:35:59 +0000Susie WarginHe didn’t make varsity on his high school basketball team in Batavia, Illinois until he was a junior. A huge growth spurt from 5’11” to 6’8’ helped, as did his high school coach who took the time to help make Dan Issel a future icon at the University...
Dan still holds the record as the all-time leading scorer at Kentucky, a record he set in 1970 that will likely never be broken. After college Dan played in the ABA and set the league on fire as the 1971 ABA Rookie of the Year and scoring champ, the 1972 ABA All Star Game MVP, ABA Champion in 1975 and 6-time ABA All-Star. After he was sold (yes sold) to the Nuggets and the ABA & NBA merged, Dan added another All-Star appearance to his name as a member of the NBA. His #44 jersey is one of 7 retired Nuggets jerseys.

After his playing days were over, Dan had two stints coaching the Nuggets, both of which ended with resignations. In retirement, Dan is now enjoying life in the Denver area with wife of over 50 years, Cheri, his two adult children and 5 grandchildren. He also co-hosts a radio show on ESPN Radio in Louisville. Dan is a member of the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, the College Basketball Hall of Fame and the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2969basketball,dan,issel,nuggets,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRpodcast.com
“Gwoz” grew up living and breathing hockey in Canada. In college at Wisconsin, he was part of the 1977 NCAA Championship team. When it became apparent his playing days would not continue into the NHL, George turned to coaching where he had multiple stops (mostly in 5-year increments) including as an assistant coach for the 1986 Michigan State NCAA Champions. His longest tenure was at the helm of the University of Denver where he spent 19 seasons and led the Pioneers to back to back NCAA titles in 2004 and 2005. From 2001 to 2013, Gwoz’s DU teams had at least 20 wins each season. Then, out of nowhere on April 1, 2013, he was fired. No joke.

He was stunned, however that setback opened new doors, including spending two years as an assistant with the Tampa Bay Lightning and their appearance in the Stanley Cup Finals in 2015. Since 2015, George has been the head coach at Valor High School where he’s led the Eagles to multiple state title games and back to back championships.

There is life after being fired.

George is a member of the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame, the University of Denver Athletics Hall of Fame and the Wisconsin Hockey Hall of Fame.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52737663Wed, 15 Feb 2023 03:34:09 +0000Susie WarginHe is the only coach in NCAA hockey history to win a Division I National Championship as a player, assistant coach and head coach. He’s coached in a Stanley Cup Final and led a high school team to back-to-back state titles. George Gwozdecky has also...
“Gwoz” grew up living and breathing hockey in Canada. In college at Wisconsin, he was part of the 1977 NCAA Championship team. When it became apparent his playing days would not continue into the NHL, George turned to coaching where he had multiple stops (mostly in 5-year increments) including as an assistant coach for the 1986 Michigan State NCAA Champions. His longest tenure was at the helm of the University of Denver where he spent 19 seasons and led the Pioneers to back to back NCAA titles in 2004 and 2005. From 2001 to 2013, Gwoz’s DU teams had at least 20 wins each season. Then, out of nowhere on April 1, 2013, he was fired. No joke.

He was stunned, however that setback opened new doors, including spending two years as an assistant with the Tampa Bay Lightning and their appearance in the Stanley Cup Finals in 2015. Since 2015, George has been the head coach at Valor High School where he’s led the Eagles to multiple state title games and back to back championships.

There is life after being fired.

George is a member of the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame, the University of Denver Athletics Hall of Fame and the Wisconsin Hockey Hall of Fame.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2905george,gwodecky,hockey,podcast,sports,valor,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFR.com
Despite being shorter than most and claiming very little talent, Mark was drafted by the Broncos in the 6th round of the 1986 draft. His career was on the fast track from the beginning: Mark was part of “The Drive” and played in Super Bowl 21 his rookie season. He’d play in two more Super Bowls, and as Broncos fans painfully remember, all three were losses. During his 7 years in Denver, Mark became a fan favorite as a member of “The Three Amigos” with fellow wide receivers Vance Johnson and Ricky Nattiel. When he became a free agent in 1993, he doubled his salary by heading to the NY Giants where he caught a lot of passes, but was cut mid-season in 1994. He was then picked up by the Colts for a bit and missed out on an opportunity to join one of his favorite childhood teams: the Pittsburgh Steelers.

In retirement, Mark’s energy is the same as when he played: 110%. He has many ventures, including Jackson Financial Solutions and the non-profit Recruiting Classroom.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52662833Tue, 07 Feb 2023 18:50:38 +0000Susie WarginMark Jackson grew up in a rough part of Chicago as the youngest child of a single mom. He thought ducking when hearing gang gunfire was normal. Playing in the NFL was never a dream, in fact, he quit football for a year when he was at Purdue. Despite...
Despite being shorter than most and claiming very little talent, Mark was drafted by the Broncos in the 6th round of the 1986 draft. His career was on the fast track from the beginning: Mark was part of “The Drive” and played in Super Bowl 21 his rookie season. He’d play in two more Super Bowls, and as Broncos fans painfully remember, all three were losses. During his 7 years in Denver, Mark became a fan favorite as a member of “The Three Amigos” with fellow wide receivers Vance Johnson and Ricky Nattiel. When he became a free agent in 1993, he doubled his salary by heading to the NY Giants where he caught a lot of passes, but was cut mid-season in 1994. He was then picked up by the Colts for a bit and missed out on an opportunity to join one of his favorite childhood teams: the Pittsburgh Steelers.

In retirement, Mark’s energy is the same as when he played: 110%. He has many ventures, including Jackson Financial Solutions and the non-profit Recruiting Classroom.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3971broncos,football,podcast,sports,warginfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/chad-friehauf--52601308
In 2004, Chad won the Harlon Hill Trophy (D2’s version of the Heisman) and led the Orediggers to their first NCAA Playoff appearance. He finished his career at Mines as the school’s all-time leader in pass attempts, pass completions, passing yards and touchdown passes. He started his pro football journey with the Broncos where his only appearance was taking a knee in a preseason game. Undeterred, Chad kept working at every opportunity including the CFL, Arena League, baseball and even returning to Mines to play a remaining year of eligibility in basketball at the age of 24. Eventually, he knew he had exhausted his chances and retired.

Then came the reinvention. Chad founded ReadyList Sports with Jake Plummer and they are changing the way football coaches teach and how players learn their playbooks. He has also moved back to the farm he grew up on in Brush where he is running the farm and starting a family. The grind continues.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52601308Wed, 01 Feb 2023 01:58:13 +0000Susie WarginFor every marquee name in the NFL, there are thousands of names who never see their name in lights. They are the ones who keep trying and trying (and trying) to live the dream. They are the grinders. That’s Chad Friehauf. The Morgan County product...
In 2004, Chad won the Harlon Hill Trophy (D2’s version of the Heisman) and led the Orediggers to their first NCAA Playoff appearance. He finished his career at Mines as the school’s all-time leader in pass attempts, pass completions, passing yards and touchdown passes. He started his pro football journey with the Broncos where his only appearance was taking a knee in a preseason game. Undeterred, Chad kept working at every opportunity including the CFL, Arena League, baseball and even returning to Mines to play a remaining year of eligibility in basketball at the age of 24. Eventually, he knew he had exhausted his chances and retired.

Then came the reinvention. Chad founded ReadyList Sports with Jake Plummer and they are changing the way football coaches teach and how players learn their playbooks. He has also moved back to the farm he grew up on in Brush where he is running the farm and starting a family. The grind continues.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2459friehauf,warginfalsefullhttps://www.spreaker.com/episode/ryan-harris--52535414
The Broncos picked him in the 3rd round of the 2007 draft and over the next 10 seasons, he would hear many opinions (positive and negative) about his playing abilities with the Broncos, Eagles, Texans, Chiefs and Steelers. He also endured nine surgeries throughout his football career which helped him gain perspective on work ethic and belief in himself.

In retirement, Ryan is a best selling author, keynote speaker, award winning broadcaster and involved in a number of projects trying to create a better world. To find out more about Ryan and follow his endeavors, visit RyanHarris86.com

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52535414Wed, 25 Jan 2023 02:08:17 +0000Susie WarginHe was on the Broncos Offensive Line for three different stints during his 10-year NFL career. His final tenure in Denver included a victory in Super Bowl 50. Ryan Harris grew up in the Twin Cities and was inspired to play football after attending a...
The Broncos picked him in the 3rd round of the 2007 draft and over the next 10 seasons, he would hear many opinions (positive and negative) about his playing abilities with the Broncos, Eagles, Texans, Chiefs and Steelers. He also endured nine surgeries throughout his football career which helped him gain perspective on work ethic and belief in himself.

In retirement, Ryan is a best selling author, keynote speaker, award winning broadcaster and involved in a number of projects trying to create a better world. To find out more about Ryan and follow his endeavors, visit RyanHarris86.com

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2744broncos,harris,nfl,warginfalse21fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He was drafted in 1997 by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2nd round where he played 5 up and down seasons. In 2003, he signed with the Denver Broncos as a free agent and led them to the playoffs for 3 straight seasons. In 2006, for the first time in his career, he was replaced mid-season by Jay Cutler and was traded to Tampa Bay at the end of he season. He had filed his retirement paperwork before the trade and never played for the Bucs.

These days Jake lives in Colorado with his wife and 3 kids. He's also become entrenched and educated in functional mushrooms. Jake helped co-found UMBO which offers functional mushrooms in tinctures, capsules and bars. Use the code CTFR15 for 15% off. In 2021, Jake helped found MyCoLove Farm in Fort Lupton to ensure the mushrooms for UMBO were grown properly.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52462155Tue, 17 Jan 2023 13:25:48 +0000Susie WarginHe grew up in a very small town outside of Boise and had athletic competition from day one with two older brothers. Jake Plummer played just about everything growing up including football, basketball and baseball. It was his talent at quarterback that...
He was drafted in 1997 by the Arizona Cardinals in the 2nd round where he played 5 up and down seasons. In 2003, he signed with the Denver Broncos as a free agent and led them to the playoffs for 3 straight seasons. In 2006, for the first time in his career, he was replaced mid-season by Jay Cutler and was traded to Tampa Bay at the end of he season. He had filed his retirement paperwork before the trade and never played for the Bucs.

These days Jake lives in Colorado with his wife and 3 kids. He's also become entrenched and educated in functional mushrooms. Jake helped co-found UMBO which offers functional mushrooms in tinctures, capsules and bars. Use the code CTFR15 for 15% off. In 2021, Jake helped found MyCoLove Farm in Fort Lupton to ensure the mushrooms for UMBO were grown properly.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3960asu,broncos,cardinals,football,mushrooms,nfl,podcast,sports,sundevils,warginfalse20fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He decided to make a go at the next level after going undrafted and made the 53 man roster with the Colts for two years. Then he got cut. He tried the Canadian Football League and lasted 2 months due to injury. On the long drive back from Montreal, Kevin was honest with himself and decided to hang up his cleats.

After his playing days, he worked in oil & gas and went through a few jobs with the up and down cycle of that industry. Today, Kevin and his wife Holli are Team McDougal Realtors with RE/MAX Advanced in Fort Collins.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52408518Wed, 11 Jan 2023 05:01:16 +0000Susie WarginThere's a reason running backs have the shortest "life span" in the NFL: the position is brutal on the body. When they get the ball, they either to try to run through massively built men or cut to one side or the other and make them miss. The hits...
He decided to make a go at the next level after going undrafted and made the 53 man roster with the Colts for two years. Then he got cut. He tried the Canadian Football League and lasted 2 months due to injury. On the long drive back from Montreal, Kevin was honest with himself and decided to hang up his cleats.

After his playing days, he worked in oil & gas and went through a few jobs with the up and down cycle of that industry. Today, Kevin and his wife Holli are Team McDougal Realtors with RE/MAX Advanced in Fort Collins.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2889colts,csu,football,mcdougal,nfl,podcast,sports,warginfalsefullhttp://www.ctfrpodcast.com
He had some good years in Washington and was a Pro Bowler after the 1996 season. Then in 1997, he celebrated scoring a touchdown by ramming his head into a wall on Sunday Night Football. He sprained his neck, fell out of favor with Washington and moved on to the Lions. After one season with Detroit, he was released and landed in Denver to back up Brian Griese. He led the Broncos into the playoffs in 2000 after Griese was hurt, but after two years in Denver, was told he could move on. Four more teams followed (including two stints with the Vikings) and Gus eventually retired in 2009. Gus credits his ability to recover from setbacks and move on to his wife Annie and his support system.

In retirement, he's been a high school coach and entered the business world. Currently Gus runs NFL Alumni Ventures Podcasts, a podcasting platform for NFL Alumni giving former players an unfiltered way to tell their stories.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52341511Tue, 03 Jan 2023 13:23:40 +0000Susie WarginHe knew he needed a scholarship if he wanted to go to college. Gus Frerotte grew up in a blue-collar Pennsylvania home steeped in hard work and toughness. He played 3 sports in high school and despite being at a small school with barely enough boys to...
He had some good years in Washington and was a Pro Bowler after the 1996 season. Then in 1997, he celebrated scoring a touchdown by ramming his head into a wall on Sunday Night Football. He sprained his neck, fell out of favor with Washington and moved on to the Lions. After one season with Detroit, he was released and landed in Denver to back up Brian Griese. He led the Broncos into the playoffs in 2000 after Griese was hurt, but after two years in Denver, was told he could move on. Four more teams followed (including two stints with the Vikings) and Gus eventually retired in 2009. Gus credits his ability to recover from setbacks and move on to his wife Annie and his support system.

In retirement, he's been a high school coach and entered the business world. Currently Gus runs NFL Alumni Ventures Podcasts, a podcasting platform for NFL Alumni giving former players an unfiltered way to tell their stories.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2755football,frerotte,gus,podcast,sports,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
In retirement he tried his hand at coaching which he enjoyed, however he relishes working in the media in both radio and TV. Nick is fueled by a drive that has him and his contagious energy moving forward at all times.





To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52242658Wed, 21 Dec 2022 03:48:59 +0000Susie Wargin"Good luck with that." Nick Ferguson vividly remembers hearing that when he was trying to catch on at Georgia Tech after playing at Division II Morris Brown College. He not only made the Yellow Jacket's team, he also made it to the NFL. Like college,...
In retirement he tried his hand at coaching which he enjoyed, however he relishes working in the media in both radio and TV. Nick is fueled by a drive that has him and his contagious energy moving forward at all times.





To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>3418bengals,broncos,ferguson,football,nfl,warginfalse17fullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Over the course of 16 years in the NFL, he played 243 consecutive games and has plenty of stories about football and life. Retirement has been anything but boring as he’s very involved in his Nutrition 53 and is the Director of Business Development for REV Social Network.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52181489Wed, 14 Dec 2022 04:27:15 +0000Susie WarginBill Romanowski was a polarizing player: if he was on your team, you loved him, if he wasn’t, probably not so much. From an early age, Romo set goals and every time he achieved a goal, he set his sights higher. He won awards as both an athlete and a...
Over the course of 16 years in the NFL, he played 243 consecutive games and has plenty of stories about football and life. Retirement has been anything but boring as he’s very involved in his Nutrition 53 and is the Director of Business Development for REV Social Network.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>343249ers,broncos,football,nfl,podcast,raiders,romanowski,sports,warginfalsefullhttp://www.ctfrpodcast.com
After being drafted in the 5th round by the Bengals, Greg played in the NFL for a few years. After retiring, he went back to school: medical school and today he’s an anesthesiologist. He’s in the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame, CSU Athletics Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame. Tough to stay in the shadows with those accolades!

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52117202Wed, 07 Dec 2022 05:08:43 +0000Susie WarginGreg Myers prefers to stay out of the spotlight, however he has accomplished just a little bit too much and his story should be told. A graduate of Windsor High School where his #3 football jersey is retired. A stand out student athlete at Colorado...
After being drafted in the 5th round by the Bengals, Greg played in the NFL for a few years. After retiring, he went back to school: medical school and today he’s an anesthesiologist. He’s in the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame, CSU Athletics Hall of Fame and the College Football Hall of Fame. Tough to stay in the shadows with those accolades!

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>1508csu,football,myers,nfl,podcast,sports,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
After 11 seasons with the Broncos, Steve hung up his cleats (on his own) and tried to figure out retirement. Through his faith and an aptitude test, he eventually found a career he loved and has been very successful.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/52043576Tue, 29 Nov 2022 12:42:58 +0000Susie WarginHe was a walk-on quarterback at Tulane University with no aspirations to play in the NFL. In fact, when the Broncos came to New Orleans to work him out, Steve Foley declined and said he wasn't interested. The Broncos drafted him anyway. Under...
After 11 seasons with the Broncos, Steve hung up his cleats (on his own) and tried to figure out retirement. Through his faith and an aptitude test, he eventually found a career he loved and has been very successful.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2590broncos,collier,foley,football,podcast,sports,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He became CSU's head coach in 1993 where he guided the Rams to 6 conference titles and 9 bowl games. Everybody loved (and still loves) Sonny. On November 26, 2007, CSU beat Wyoming and it was Sonny's last game coaching the Rams. Fans at the game didn't know their favorite coach was being fired, but Sonny, his coaches and a few others (including the host of this podcast) did. His firing was made official a few days later.

In Part Two, we start in 1993 and dive into his 15 years as the Rams head coach, his stunning firing and the new paths his life has taken since.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51981493Tue, 22 Nov 2022 16:53:51 +0000Susie WarginSonny Lubick is an icon in Fort Collins, Colorado. The football field at Colorado State University has been in his name at two different stadiums. His first stint at CSU was as an offensive coordinator under Leon Fuller in the early 80's after he was...
He became CSU's head coach in 1993 where he guided the Rams to 6 conference titles and 9 bowl games. Everybody loved (and still loves) Sonny. On November 26, 2007, CSU beat Wyoming and it was Sonny's last game coaching the Rams. Fans at the game didn't know their favorite coach was being fired, but Sonny, his coaches and a few others (including the host of this podcast) did. His firing was made official a few days later.

In Part Two, we start in 1993 and dive into his 15 years as the Rams head coach, his stunning firing and the new paths his life has taken since.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2139football,lubick,podcast,sonnny,sports,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He became CSU's head coach in 1993 where he guided the Rams to 6 conference titles and 9 bowl games. Everybody loved (and still loves) Sonny. On November 26, 2007, CSU beat Wyoming and it was Sonny's last game coaching the Rams. Fans at the game didn't know their favorite coach was being fired, but Sonny, his coaches and a few others (including the host of this podcast) did. His firing was made official a few days later.

In Part One, Sonny goes back to his days growing up in Montana and recounts some great stories about how he started coaching and his path leading to CSU in 1993.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51979323Tue, 22 Nov 2022 13:25:31 +0000Susie WarginSonny Lubick is an icon in Fort Collins, Colorado. The football field at Colorado State University has been in his name at two different stadiums. His first stint at CSU was as an offensive coordinator under Leon Fuller in the early 80's after he was...
He became CSU's head coach in 1993 where he guided the Rams to 6 conference titles and 9 bowl games. Everybody loved (and still loves) Sonny. On November 26, 2007, CSU beat Wyoming and it was Sonny's last game coaching the Rams. Fans at the game didn't know their favorite coach was being fired, but Sonny, his coaches and a few others (including the host of this podcast) did. His firing was made official a few days later.

In Part One, Sonny goes back to his days growing up in Montana and recounts some great stories about how he started coaching and his path leading to CSU in 1993.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>1949colorado,football,lubick,sonny,sports,state,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
In the pros, he moved up through the years, however there were a few setbacks along the way with firings in LA, Denver and Washington. No matter how each stint ended, he gained perspective and learned at every stop in his career. Mike deservedly earned a spot in the Broncos Ring of Fame and should have a bust in Canton, Ohio. Hopefully someday.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51897703Tue, 15 Nov 2022 13:01:24 +0000Susie WarginHis three tenures with the Denver Broncos totaled 14 years and brought the city back to back Super Bowl Championships. Mike Shanahan's other 24 years of coaching had stops in Oklahoma, Eastern Illinois (D2 Championship), Northern Arizona, Minnesota,...
In the pros, he moved up through the years, however there were a few setbacks along the way with firings in LA, Denver and Washington. No matter how each stint ended, he gained perspective and learned at every stop in his career. Mike deservedly earned a spot in the Broncos Ring of Fame and should have a bust in Canton, Ohio. Hopefully someday.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>229349ers,broncos,denver,football,mike,podcast,redskins,shanahan,sports,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51821005Tue, 08 Nov 2022 10:00:03 +0000Susie WarginHe loved playing basketball Thomas Jefferson High School, but football got him to the University of Colorado where he won the Mackey Award as the nation's best tight end. In 2002, after his stellar college career, Daniel Graham was drafted 21st...
Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>1782broncos,daniel,football,graham,podast,sports,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
In 1989 he was cut by the Broncos and had to figure out what to do next with a young family at home. He tried a variety of professions from real estate, media and coaching and today still keeps his plate full of activities.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51759992Wed, 02 Nov 2022 01:58:08 +0000Susie WarginHe was told he was too slow, so he trained with his college track team. He wasn't drafted by the team he thought would draft him, so he went to their training camp and made the team as an undrafted free agent. Over the next several years, Steve Watson...
In 1989 he was cut by the Broncos and had to figure out what to do next with a young family at home. He tried a variety of professions from real estate, media and coaching and today still keeps his plate full of activities.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2266broncos,football,podcast,sports,steve,wargin,watsonfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Today Gary is retired in Houston with his wife Rhonda. He enjoys spending time with their grandkids and keeping up with their three sons who as of 2022 were all employed by NFL teams. Apples don't fall far from trees.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51675751Tue, 25 Oct 2022 08:00:02 +0000Susie WarginFor all the years Gary Kubiak has been in the NFL as both a player and coach, it's hard to believe he's only been fired once. Then again, Gary is once of the nicest guys you'll ever meet and his football IQ is through the roof. Gary knows how success...
Today Gary is retired in Houston with his wife Rhonda. He enjoys spending time with their grandkids and keeping up with their three sons who as of 2022 were all employed by NFL teams. Apples don't fall far from trees.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>1911broncos,football,houston,kubiak,podcast,texans,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
In 2005, he was drafted by the Jets in the 6th round and they cut him a year later. He then spent a year out of football, trying out for a different team nearly every week. In 2007, he was signed by the Houston Texans where he played 5 seasons and made his way to Denver as a free agent for two more seasons until he was released. After he retired, he struggled a bit mentally, especially when he had a gig as radio show host while the Broncos were making their victory run to Super Bowl 50. He was jealous and depressed.

Today, he's in a better place with his beautiful wife Stacy, two cute kiddos and working his land both in Colorado and Texas. Joel has some great words of advice and a tattoo to always remember which direction he's going.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51601165Tue, 18 Oct 2022 08:00:02 +0000Susie WarginMorgan County Colorado has produced some pretty impressive NFL talent and Joel Dreessen set that stage. Players who came after Joel from the rural area include Ryan Jensen, Dalton Risner and Trey McBride. These are small town, no BS guys and they are...
In 2005, he was drafted by the Jets in the 6th round and they cut him a year later. He then spent a year out of football, trying out for a different team nearly every week. In 2007, he was signed by the Houston Texans where he played 5 seasons and made his way to Denver as a free agent for two more seasons until he was released. After he retired, he struggled a bit mentally, especially when he had a gig as radio show host while the Broncos were making their victory run to Super Bowl 50. He was jealous and depressed.

Today, he's in a better place with his beautiful wife Stacy, two cute kiddos and working his land both in Colorado and Texas. Joel has some great words of advice and a tattoo to always remember which direction he's going.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2714csu,dreessen,football,nfl,podcast,sports,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
There was also a lot that happened off the field during Coach Barnett's tenure. In November of 2005, CU's Athletic Director Mike Bohn informed Gary and his coaches that their contracts were being extended. A few weeks later, he was fired after a 70-3 loss to Texas in the Big 12 Championship game.

Gary and his wife Mary took a breath for a short time, but it wasn't long before he discovered a love for broadcasting. He was welcomed back to the CU community in 2016 as the color analyst for the Colorado Football Network. He is also very involved in charity work dealing with suicide prevention. To learn more about his charity work with the Mary & Gary Barnett Family Foundation visit GaryBarnettFoundation.org

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51533351Tue, 11 Oct 2022 08:00:02 +0000Susie WarginGary Barnett was a football player long before he was a coach. He started playing and loving the game from the age of 5 and played through high school and college at the University of Missouri. After college, he was a high school football coach and...
There was also a lot that happened off the field during Coach Barnett's tenure. In November of 2005, CU's Athletic Director Mike Bohn informed Gary and his coaches that their contracts were being extended. A few weeks later, he was fired after a 70-3 loss to Texas in the Big 12 Championship game.

Gary and his wife Mary took a breath for a short time, but it wasn't long before he discovered a love for broadcasting. He was welcomed back to the CU community in 2016 as the color analyst for the Colorado Football Network. He is also very involved in charity work dealing with suicide prevention. To learn more about his charity work with the Mary & Gary Barnett Family Foundation visit GaryBarnettFoundation.org

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>1897barnett,colorado,gary,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
In 1990 he joined KOA and the Broncos broadcast and has been the voice of the Broncos since 1995 when he took over play by play duties. His coaching career has been historic: as of 2022, he has led teams to 10 state championships with four different high schools. On top of all this, he is considered by many to be a good friend who can be counted on through thick and thin.

You can hear more from Dave by checking out his Podcast, The Dave Logan Podcast

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51461578Tue, 04 Oct 2022 08:00:02 +0000Susie WarginHe is one of only three people who have been drafted by the NBA, NFL and MLB. Dave Logan was a super star athlete growing up in Wheat Ridge and eventually landed at the University of Colorado for football. His good fortunes continued in the NFL where...
In 1990 he joined KOA and the Broncos broadcast and has been the voice of the Broncos since 1995 when he took over play by play duties. His coaching career has been historic: as of 2022, he has led teams to 10 state championships with four different high schools. On top of all this, he is considered by many to be a good friend who can be counted on through thick and thin.

You can hear more from Dave by checking out his Podcast, The Dave Logan Podcast

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>1910broncos,browns,cleveland,dave,denver,football,logan,podcast,sports,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He learned numerous lessons about teamwork during his playing days and those lessons have proven to be extremely beneficial in retirement with a professional speaking career. Listen to his story here and learn more about Karl at www.KarlMecklenburg.com.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51394747Tue, 27 Sep 2022 11:40:21 +0000Susie WarginHe was drafted in the final round of the 1983 draft. Round 12. That round doesn't even exist anymore. He lost 3 Super Bowls and after 12 years with the Broncos, #77 retired when he knew he had lost a step. During his dozen years in Denver, Karl...
He learned numerous lessons about teamwork during his playing days and those lessons have proven to be extremely beneficial in retirement with a professional speaking career. Listen to his story here and learn more about Karl at www.KarlMecklenburg.com.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>1668football,karl,mecklenburg,podcast,sports,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He became a fan favorite and won a Super Bowl championship in 2016. He had hoped to play his entire career in Denver however, after his contract ended in 2019, he wasn't asked back. Derek went on to play two seasons with the Baltimore Ravens and dealt with injuries to both of his hips. In the summer of 2022, he said "I'm done" and retired.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51318445Tue, 20 Sep 2022 11:50:30 +0000Susie WarginHe had no money growing up, his step-dad was physical with him at home and he attended 7 different elementary schools in Ohio. His outlet: football. Derek Wolfe started playing full contact football at the age of 7 and quickly realized the release it...
He became a fan favorite and won a Super Bowl championship in 2016. He had hoped to play his entire career in Denver however, after his contract ended in 2019, he wasn't asked back. Derek went on to play two seasons with the Baltimore Ravens and dealt with injuries to both of his hips. In the summer of 2022, he said "I'm done" and retired.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2678broncos,derek,football,podcast,ravens,retired,sports,wargin,wolfefalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
He learned a lot of lessons along the way and today has completely reinvented himself with a new passion: woodworking. To learn more about Rich's woodworking business, visit barefootbroncowoodworking.com

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51233526Tue, 13 Sep 2022 09:00:03 +0000Susie WarginRich Karlis is probably best known as the “Barefoot Kicker” for the Broncos, however he is far more than a guy who didn't wear a shoe on his kicking foot. Rich played for the Broncos in the 80’s and was also on the roster for four other NFL teams. Not...
He learned a lot of lessons along the way and today has completely reinvented himself with a new passion: woodworking. To learn more about Rich's woodworking business, visit barefootbroncowoodworking.com

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2458broncos,football,karlis,kicker,nfl,sports,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/51112677Tue, 06 Sep 2022 11:00:02 +0000Susie WarginRod Smith fought hard to make it as an undrafted free agent, but was cut in training camp his rookie season. There was actually a good reason behind cutting the talented wide receiver from Missouri Southern. #80 was also fired (kind of) while he was...
Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>2094broncos,denver,podcast,receiver,rod,smith,wargin,widefalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50943663Tue, 30 Aug 2022 11:32:54 +0000Susie WarginHe's in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. He was also cut by the Denver Broncos. Steve Atwater takes us back on how he paved his path to greatness with the Broncos and shares his incredible attitude when he knew he was being phased out by a team he had...
Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>1926atwater,broncos,denver,football,podcast,steve,warginfalsefullhttp://www.CTFRPodcast.com
This trailer provides snippits from episodes with Steve Atwater, Rod Smith, Sonny Lubick and Dave Logan.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>https://api.spreaker.com/episode/50882227Thu, 18 Aug 2022 00:31:12 +0000Susie WarginWelcome Cut Traded Fired Retired! This is a podcast focused on the setbacks and challenges professional athletes and coaches face, how they deal with going backwards and most importantly, how they responded. Perhaps you can find a takeaway for your...
This trailer provides snippits from episodes with Steve Atwater, Rod Smith, Sonny Lubick and Dave Logan.

Hosted by Susie Wargin

To learn more about the host Susie Wargin, visit www.SusieWargin.com]]>172cut,fired,podcast,retired,susie,traded,warginfalsetrailer