Heart Of Sports

We open the show talking NFL Playoffs and preview the Eagles/Rams game before we are joined by Inquirer Sixers writer to talk alot about Joel Embiid and his health, the ownership and leadership of the team, the new arena, fan frustration and more.

We start talking state of college football playoffs after the big Notre Dame win over PSU last night, the impact of NIL on college athletes, and the evolving dynamics of coaching and rivalries in college sports. Then we had a preview of the Philadelphia Eagles' playoff prospects, featuring insights from Eagles insider Dave Spadaro. In this conversation, the discussion revolves around the key factors for playoff success, focusing on the Philadelphia Eagles and their upcoming game against the Green Bay Packers. We break down the importance of turnovers, explosive plays, and red zone efficiency, while also delving into team dynamics, leadership, and coaching philosophy. Special teams play a crucial role, and emotional control is emphasized as a key to success in high-stakes games. Then we conclude with a lighthearted discussion about 'Quitters Day' and memorable sports quitters.

The CFP rolls on with some blowouts early as we head to the Semifinals this week. We talk the good and bad, the bowls and storylines of the college postseason so far. Then we talk some NFL and Eagles football as they head into week 18, before talking some Sixers and NBA.

In this engaging conversation, Ricky Williams discusses his journey from a college football star to a successful entrepreneur. He reflects on the evolution of athlete care, the importance of mental health, and the empowerment of players in college sports. Williams shares insights on the impact of NIL and the transfer portal, the changing role of running backs in the Heisman Trophy race, and his advocacy for cannabis use in sports. He emphasizes the importance of prioritizing health and well-being for athletes and shares his entrepreneurial ventures in the cannabis industry.

We've got our annual festivus airing of sports grievances and also Keith Jones, the president of hockey operations for the Flyers, discusses the importance of building a positive culture within the organization, the journey from being a commentator to his current role, and the development of young talent. He emphasizes the significance of transparency and honesty in leadership, the strategic planning for future success, and the evolution of college hockey as a grooming ground for NHL players. Jones also highlights emerging players in the Flyers organization and their potential impact on the team's future.

From his start calling minor league baseball games while in College at Syracuse to calling CFP, World Series and NHL Playoff games, Sean McDonough talks his journey with us and how he uses his platform to raise awareness and funds about cardiac amyloidosis. That and more on this edition of the Heart of Sports.

We revist some of our favorite recent interviews

In this engaging conversation, Kenny Mayne joins the show for an entertaining conversation and to discuss his new film 'Kenny Mayne's Whiffle ball', his nostalgic love for whiffle ball, and his varied career path from local TV to ESPN. He shares insights into his personal experiences, including his charity work related to his ankle injury, and reflects on the challenges and triumphs of his professional journey. The conversation highlights the importance of perseverance and the joy of pursuing one's passions.

We started the show talking about the snow globe that Thursday night football looked like before being joined by Inquirer Sixers reporter to talk about the current struggles of the Philadelphia 76ers, focusing on Joel Embiid's health, leadership issues, and the overall team dynamics. We analyze the implications of roster construction and the challenges the team faces moving forward, questioning whether it's time to panic or remain patient as the season progresses.

We start the show breaking down the Birds big win against the Commanders to move to 8-2 Then we are joined for an engaging conversation with bestselling author John Feinstein as he discusses his latest book, 'The Ancient Eight,' which explores the unique culture of Ivy League sports. He reflects on his journey as a writer, the evolution of college athletics, and the significance of education in the lives of Ivy League athletes. Feinstein shares insights into the historical impact of the Ivy League on modern football, the intense rivalries that define the league, and the challenges student-athletes face in balancing academics and athletics. He also emphasizes the importance of using one's platform for advocacy, particularly in raising awareness for ALS research. Then we talk some Sixers and Flyers before closing out the show.

ESPN Investigative Reporter TJ Quinn joined the show to talk the legacy of Pedro Gomez, an influential sports journalist, and the upcoming Pedro Palooza event organized to honor him. They reflect on Pedro's unique ability to connect with athletes and his commitment to journalism, particularly in the realm of investigative reporting. The discussion also touches on the challenges journalists face in maintaining professional relationships with athletes, the ethical considerations in reporting, and the emerging threats posed by gambling in sports. The conversation concludes with details about the Pedro Palooza event and its significance in celebrating Pedro's life and contributions.

We started the show looking back at the World Series before bringing on Eagles Insider Dave Spadaro to help break down the Birds and talk about how: Winning makes everybody happier.The Eagles played a solid game against the Bengals.The bye week allowed the team to reset and refocus.Young players are making a significant impact on defense.Saquon Barkley has transformed the team's running game.Winning the division is crucial for playoff success.The Eagles have shown depth despite injuries.The team is gaining confidence and momentum.Upcoming games will test the Eagles' resilience.Officiating needs to be more consistent and fair.

In this conversation, Coach Gary Waters joins us to discuss the evolving landscape of college basketball, focusing on the challenges coaches face in handling controversial situations, the impact of NIL and the transfer portal, and the importance of maintaining team culture. We also delve into the mental health of student athletes, the influence of gambling, and the potential shift towards professionalism in college sports. Throughout the discussion, the significance of character in coaching is emphasized as a crucial element in navigating these changes. That and much more.

We start the show talking about the MLB Playoffs, health of the Sixers to start the season and some Eagles/Giants. Then Mirren Fader discusses her new book on Hakeem Olajuwon, exploring his journey from a late bloomer in basketball to an NBA legend. The discussion highlights the importance of mentorship, community, and Olajuwon's competitive spirit, as well as his rediscovery of faith and the impact he has had on future generations of players. Fader emphasizes Olajuwon's legacy of giving and the profound respect he commands within the basketball community.

We start the show talking about the aftermath of the Philadelphia Phillies' season and where they go next before transitioning into insights about the Sixers' preseason as they get ready to start the regular season with Inquirer Sixers Writer Keith Pompey. We delve into Joel Embiid's health management and his current knee questions, the implications of load management on player legacy, and the team's offensive strategies. We also cover the versatility of the Sixers' roster, and the challenges they may face against the Knicks and Celtics, and close with a light-hearted exchange about college football.

We started the show getting hyped for Red October with World Series Champion Greg Dobbs talking some baseball, how the playoffs are different, the feel at CBP and more. Then we looked at the life and legacy of a giant of the game, Dikembe Mutombo with Marc Spears of Andscape.

Last weeked of the regular season and with the Phillies clinching the East and the bye, we take a look ahead at the playoffs, roster options and potential opponents. Then we continue our new Sixers arena talk from last week before talking some football and Eagles/Bucs before this weekend.

Jeff and Jason take a deep dive into the Sixers downtown arena plans with the Mayor coming out in favor this week. Then they talk some Phillies as the season comes to a close and then NFL and the Eagles struggles in week 2 as they look to New Orleans in week 3.

We started the show talking baseball and the Phillies as they try to hold on to first place in the National League heading into the Playoffs. Then we talked some NFL from week 1 including the Eagles starting in Brazil before looking at the game this week against the Falcons. Then we'll talk some NCAA including Venmo requests to a qb for gambling losses.

Coach Tom Moore has worked with greats like Manning, Brady and Sanders and this week he joined the Heart of Sports to discuss his new book, 'The Player's Coach,' and reflect on his 60 years of coaching experience in the NFL. He shared lessons learned and expressed gratitude to players, coaches, owners, and fans. Moore talked about his early coaching days in the Army and the importance of responsibility and teaching. He also discussed the qualities of great quarterbacks and the evolution of the game. Moore emphasized the importance of giving credit to the players and the role of teamwork in football.