Podcast
Champ Media
A Fresh Look at Michigan Sports with Champions Circle | A College Sports Company Brand
- Sports News chart
- #140
- Episodes
- 162
- Releases
- Twice a week
- Typical length
- 32 min
- On air since
- 2025
- Latest episode
- 5 days ago
Episodes
162 episodes, newest first
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42 min
Sharon Gauci's Journey From Australia to Michigan and the Top of Automotive Design | Hail to Her
Show notes
Sharon Gauci went from being one of the only women in automotive design meetings to leading design for Buick and GMC. After 32 years in the automotive industry, the former Executive Director of Design shares what it takes to break barriers, lead iconic American brands, and build a career on your own terms.On this episode of Hail to Her, host Haley Polk sits down with Sharon Gauci to discuss her extraordinary journey from Australia to Detroit, her leadership in the male-dominated automotive industry, and the creative vision behind Buick and GMC.Sharon reveals how her unconventional career led her to the top of automotive design, why she challenged her team to push GMC's design boundaries, and how projects including the GMC Sierra EV and Buick Wildcat EV concept helped define the brands' evolving identities.She also discusses handling criticism, building confidence, earning trust, and learning to lead without letting ego get in the way.Beyond her career, Sharon reflects on her family's connection to the University of Michigan through her son, former Michigan football punter Isaac Gauci, and what she's discovering about purpose, gratitude, and fulfillment after retirement.Plus, find out what the former Buick and GMC design executive actually drives, her favorite automotive brands, and her advice to the next generation of women leaders.
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16 min
Bryson Kuzdzal on His Penn State TD & Journey From Walk-On to Michigan Playmaker | Hail to Her
Show notes
Michigan running back Bryson Kuzdzal joins Haley Polk on Hail to Her to break down his electrifying 43-yard touchdown against Penn State, the turning point in Michigan's comeback victory, and the mentality that helped him rise from preferred walk-on to contributor for the Wolverines.Kuzdzal takes us inside Michigan's locker room, explaining how the team responded to a difficult first half and how his opportunity unfolded in the third quarter. He shares what went through his mind as he broke free toward the end zone, discusses his relationship with quarterback Tommy Carr, and reflects on the confidence he gained from previous performances against Northwestern and Maryland.Beyond the football field, Bryson opens up about the persistence required to earn playing time as a walk-on, adjusting to the demands of college football, and the pressure of representing Michigan. He also reveals a surprising detail about his childhood fandom, explains how an academic scholarship helped bring him to Ann Arbor, and shares why loyalty and hard work define his journey.With Michigan preparing for Indiana, Kuzdzal reflects on what playing in the Big House means to him, his remaining goals, and the legacy he hopes to leave behind. Join Haley Polk for an inside look at the work, resilience, and commitment behind one of Michigan football's most memorable recent moments.
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54 min
How Michigan Turned It Around vs Penn State | The Lab
Show notes
Michigan Football found another gear in its win over Penn State! On this episode of The Lab, former Wolverines Chris Wormley and Jordan Morgan break down Michigan's second-half turnaround, the resurgence of the rushing attack, and the defensive plays that helped secure the victory.Michigan running back Jordan Marshall joins the show for an exclusive conversation about the chemistry inside the running back room, finding the offense's identity, and the responsibility that comes with being a team captain. Marshall also shares why supporting teammates through adversity is essential to building a winning culture in Ann Arbor.Michigan offensive tackle Evan Link steps into The Lab to explain the offensive line's performance against Penn State, the adjustments that helped unlock the ground game, and the importance of carrying on Michigan Football's tradition. Link also discusses balancing the demands of college football with academics.Plus, Wormley and Morgan look ahead to Michigan's upcoming matchup against Indiana and discuss the start of Michigan Basketball season. From the Penn State victory to the challenges ahead, The Lab brings Wolverines fans an inside perspective from the players who know the program best.
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33 min
Michigan vs Penn State: Chris Bracy Reveals His Mindset, Hackenberg Talks Rivalry | The Lab
Show notes
Michigan vs. Penn State is shaping up to be a pivotal Big Ten showdown, and former Nittany Lions quarterback Christian Hackenberg joins Michigan veterans Chris Wormley and Jordan Morgan on The Lab to discuss what's at stake for both programs.Plus, Michigan defensive back Chris Bracy joins Jordan Morgan for an exclusive interview about his journey from UAB to Memphis to Ann Arbor, his inspiration from Tyrann Mathieu, and the mentality driving Michigan's defense.With Michigan looking to rebound under Kyle Whittingham and Penn State navigating a new era with Matt Campbell, Hackenberg shares his perspective on coaching changes, rebuilding expectations, and the challenges of winning in today's college football landscape.The former rivals also revisit Penn State's unforgettable four-overtime victory over Michigan in 2013, reflect on playing in the Big House and Happy Valley, and discuss the Michigan defenders Hackenberg remembers most.Can Michigan get back on track, or will Penn State leave Ann Arbor with a statement victory? Share your prediction in the comments.
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34 min
The Reason Michigan Lacrosse Players Never Leave | Hail to Her
Show notes
Why do Michigan women's lacrosse players choose to stay? Associate head coach Ana Heneberry joins Haley Polk on Hail to Her to reveal the culture, confidence, and coaching philosophy behind one of Michigan's most compelling player-development stories.In this episode, Heneberry discusses the program's undergraduate transfer portal retention during her tenure, how Michigan builds a nationally competitive defense, and why great coaching involves so much more than winning games.A former standout lacrosse player at Loyola and now an associate head coach at Michigan, Ana reflects on returning to graduate school for social work, helping athletes separate their self-worth from their performance, and mentoring young women through some of the most important years of their lives.As her former player, Haley brings a unique perspective to the conversation, exploring how Ana's leadership has evolved and what truly makes a team successful.
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42 min
Jordan Brand, NIL & $140K: Inside Michigan's Sports Business Conference | A2
Show notes
One conversation at the Michigan Sport Business Conference turned into an internship opportunity. Alexander Hochberg shares how it happened—and why being in the right room can change your career in sports.On this episode of A2, host Angelnae Randalle sits down with Alexander Hochberg, Vice President of Partnerships for the Michigan Sport Business Conference (MSBC), to explore the business of sports, networking opportunities, NIL, and the connections that help students build careers before graduation.From starting as an intern handling everyday conference tasks to helping build a partnership program worth more than $140,000, Alexander offers a behind-the-scenes look at one of the nation's leading undergraduate-run sports business conferences.They discuss Jordan Brand President Sarah Mensah's appearance at MSBC, new NIL opportunities involving Michigan basketball's Elliot Cadeau, and the importance of introducing student-athletes to careers beyond competition.Plus, Alexander shares hilarious stories about borrowing sneakers from his brother, Michigan basketball national champion Harrison Hochberg, reveals why Tom Brady is his dream future conference guest, and explains how a single follow-up email helped him land a sports internship.Whether you're a Michigan fan, aspiring sports professional, student-athlete, or someone interested in sports marketing, this conversation reveals how valuable the right connections can be.Learn more about MSBC and conference tickets: https://umsbc.com/
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32 min
What Winning a National Championship Taught Michigan's Head Coach | Hail to Her
Show notes
Michigan national champion. A decade away from coaching. Then came the call that brought Kristi Gannon Fisher back to Ann Arbor.On this episode of Hail to Her, host Haley Polk sits down with Michigan field hockey head coach Kristi Gannon Fisher for a personal conversation about championship culture, family, leadership, and finding her way back to the program that helped shape her life.A member of Michigan's historic 2001 national championship team, Gannon Fisher shares memories of that unforgettable season, growing up as the youngest of 10 children, competing alongside her sister, and the lessons she learned under legendary coach Marcia Pankratz.She also opens up about stepping away from coaching to raise her three children, the unexpected opportunity that brought her back to Michigan, and how motherhood transformed her approach to leading young athletes.Plus, Gannon Fisher reflects on Michigan's thrilling overtime victory against No. 2 North Carolina, the challenges of becoming a head coach, and her vision for the future of Michigan field hockey.From national champion to head coach, this is a story about the relationships, opportunities, and experiences that make Michigan feel like home.
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35 min
Michigan Hits the Bye Week at a Crossroads | The Lab
Show notes
Chris Wormley and Jordan Morgan break down Michigan’s loss to Minnesota and why the upcoming bye week could arrive at exactly the right time for the Wolverines.The guys discuss the growing pains of a young Michigan team, defensive bright spots, eliminating penalties and turnovers, getting healthy and why there is still plenty left to accomplish this season.Then, The Lab turns to Michigan basketball. Wormley and Morgan preview the defending champions, break down the returning core and new additions, examine the frontcourt, discuss potential rotations and take a look at a loaded non-conference and Big Ten schedule.Can Michigan football use the bye week to reset and make a run over the final stretch? And what should fans expect from the next chapter of Michigan basketball?
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38 min
Dave DiIanni on Building Michigan Women’s Soccer Into a National Power | Hail to Her
Show notes
Michigan women’s soccer head coach Dave DiIanni joins Haley Polk on Hail to Her to discuss his vision for the Wolverines, why Michigan became his dream job and the standards he’s establishing in Ann Arbor.DiIanni opens up about the coaching philosophy behind his success, the relationships he builds with his players, and the regret from his own playing career that motivates him to make sure his athletes never leave Michigan wondering if they could have given more. He also reflects on his journey through Grand Valley State and Iowa, why fatherhood changed the way he coaches women, and how Michigan is learning to embrace adversity.Plus, DiIanni explains why he believes Michigan women’s soccer should be nationally relevant, outlines the Wolverines’ postseason goals, builds the “perfect soccer player” using members of the current roster and discusses how NIL support through Champion Circle can help Michigan compete with the nation’s best.
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34 min
Why Michigan’s Iowa Loss Made Us MORE Confident | The Lab
Show notes
Michigan had 430 yards of offense, held Iowa to just 58 rushing yards — and still walked away without the win.On this episode of The Lab, Chris Wormley and Jordan Morgan break down Michigan’s loss to Iowa, the missed opportunities that changed the game, costly penalties and turnovers, and why the Wolverines’ performance actually left them feeling more confident about what this team can become.They dive into the continued growth of Michigan’s offense, the importance of finishing drives, the emergence of more playmakers, and what has to improve as the Wolverines prepare for their first road test against Minnesota and the battle for the Little Brown Jug.Plus, Wormley and Morgan look ahead at Michigan’s path through a loaded Big Ten schedule and what the Iowa loss means for the Wolverines’ playoff hopes.Later, Michigan women’s basketball forward Ashley Sofilkanich joins The Lab to discuss her transition from Bucknell to Michigan, the Wolverines’ Elite Eight season, expectations for the year ahead, becoming a leader, getting stronger for Big Ten play and which teammates stand out in a rapid-fire round.
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24 min
Trey Pierce Reveals Michigan’s Mindset After Western Michigan | Hail to Her
Show notes
Michigan football captain Trey Pierce reveals why he called a players-only meeting after the Wolverines' dramatic win over Western Michigan, what really happened inside the locker room, and how Michigan responded against Oklahoma.In this episode of Hail to Her, Trey Pierce takes us behind the scenes of Michigan football, sharing what it means to lead the Wolverines, the standard he expects from the defense, and why winning isn't always enough.Pierce opens up about seeing his own father storm the field, the conversation that followed in the Michigan locker room, and the mentality that fueled the team's response against Oklahoma.From the pressure of playing at Michigan to the responsibility of leading one of college football's most recognizable programs, Pierce offers an inside look at the person behind the helmet.
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28 min
Michigan's Kicker vs. Punter: Who Has the Stronger Leg? | A2
Show notes
Who has the stronger leg: Michigan's kicker or punter? Cameron Brown and Trey Butkowski join Angel Randalle on A2 to settle the debate, reveal their incredible kicking range, and take Michigan football fans behind the scenes of Wolverines special teams.From the pressure of kicking in front of 100,000+ fans at The Big House to their journeys through the transfer portal, Cameron and Trey share what it takes to become a Michigan Man.In this episode, the Wolverines' special teamers break down their performances against Oklahoma, why they chose Michigan, their journeys from UNLV and Pitt, and the mental toughness required to perform when every kick matters.Plus, the kicker-versus-punter rivalry heats up as they debate who's more athletic, who has the harder job, and who would win a kicking competition. Trey also reveals the longest field goal he's made in practice, while Cameron discusses his incredible punting range.Finally, Cameron and Trey teach Angel how to kick a football and offer Michigan fans tips for making their own field goals.
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39 min
Smith Snowden Reveals Michigan's Defensive Mentality | The Lab
Show notes
Michigan football's defense is looking SCARY! Following the Wolverines' win over UTEP, Michigan cornerback Smith Snowden joins Chris Wormley and Jordan Morgan on The Lab to reveal the mentality behind this relentless defense and what comes next as Big Ten play begins.Wormley and Morgan break down Michigan's defensive dominance, Bryce Underwood's growth as a passer, Andrew Marsh's breakout performance, JJ Buchanan's impact and the young Wolverines making the most of their opportunities.Then, Smith Snowden joins the show for an exclusive conversation about Michigan's defensive identity, Jay Hill's coaching philosophy, the competition within the secondary and the team's mindset heading into Big Ten competition.Snowden also shares his reaction to Jonah's pick-six, his transition from Utah to Michigan, the experience of playing in front of 110,000 fans at the Big House and what makes this Wolverines defense so difficult to play against.Plus, don't miss the Two-Minute Drill, where Snowden answers rapid-fire questions about Michigan's biggest trash talker, hardest hitter, fastest player and more!
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23 min
Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng Says Michigan’s Defense Is Among CFB’s Best | The Team
Show notes
Nathaniel Owusu-Boateng sits down with Chase Herbstreit on The Team to break down Michigan’s defensive mentality, the win over Oklahoma, his growing role and why the Wolverines believe they have one of the best defenses in college football.Owusu-Boateng talks about building trust throughout the Michigan defense, making a big TFL, the atmosphere surrounding the Oklahoma matchup, the importance of special teams and the mentality of never becoming content with what the Wolverines have already accomplished.Plus, Chase hits the golf simulator with Michigan quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi to talk competition, his football journey from Texas to Colorado State and why he ultimately chose Michigan.Subscribe for more exclusive Michigan Athletics interviews, behind-the-scenes access and episodes of The Team.
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41 min
Eli Owens Reveals Michigan’s Mindset Behind the Oklahoma Win | The Lab
Show notes
Michigan tight end Eli Owens joins Chris Wormley on The Lab to take fans inside the Wolverines' mindset surrounding their statement win over Oklahoma — including why Michigan never viewed the victory as an upset.Owens breaks down the preparation that changed after Week 1, the player-led accountability inside the program, Michigan's physical identity, his evolving role in the offense and why he believes the Wolverines are only beginning to find their stride.Then, Chris Wormley and Jordan Morgan break down Michigan's win over Oklahoma, including the dominant defensive performance, Bryce Underwood's growth, JJ Buchanan's emergence, the offensive line winning the trenches, key special teams plays and their game balls from the victory.Plus, a look ahead to UTEP and discuss what Michigan needs to accomplish before Big Ten play begins.
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29 min
Inside Michigan Volleyball With Olympic Champion Coach Erin Virtue | Hail to Her
Show notes
Michigan Volleyball head coach Erin Virtue sits down for an in-depth conversation about the journey that took her from Team USA and the Olympic Games to leading the Wolverines in Ann Arbor.Virtue explains why she wasn't planning to leave the U.S. Women's National Team — until Michigan called — and reflects on helping Team USA win its historic first Olympic women's volleyball gold medal in Tokyo before returning for Paris. She also breaks down her vision for Michigan Volleyball, competing in the Big Ten, recruiting elite student-athletes, navigating NIL and revenue sharing, and building a championship culture at one of college athletics' most recognizable programs.Virtue also discusses the explosive growth of women's volleyball, including Michigan's record crowds, playing in front of more than 12,000 fans at Crisler Center, and what's next for a sport continuing to grow nationwide.Plus, Coach Virtue builds her perfect Michigan volleyball player, choosing Wolverines for serving, setting, passing, attacking, blocking and defending.
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24 min
JJ Buchanan Takes Us Inside Michigan’s Hail Mary | The Team
Show notes
Michigan Football wide receiver J.J. Buchanan joins Chase Herbstreit to relive the unforgettable game-winning Hail Mary touchdown from Bryce Underwood that delivered a dramatic Week 1 victory over Western Michigan.Buchanan takes us inside the incredible final play, what he saw as the ball came down and what it was like making the catch that won the game for Michigan.Chase also sits down with quarterback Brayden Fowler-Nicolosi to discuss Michigan’s Week 1 performance, the Wolverines’ quarterback room and the challenge ahead as Michigan prepares for a huge Week 2 matchup against Oklahoma.Visit Champions Circle NIL Shop: https://shop.championscircleuofm.com/s/9a811a
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29 min
One Second Changed Michigan’s Season | The Lab
Show notes
Michigan found a way.Chris Wormley and Jordan Morgan break down Michigan's dramatic season-opening win over Western Michigan, JJ Buchanan's unforgettable Hail Mary touchdown, what the Wolverines showed by fighting until the final second, and what needs to improve before a huge matchup with Oklahoma.Then, Michigan standout Donovan Peoples-Jones joins The Lab to talk about the Wolverines, Andrew Marsh, the Michigan-Michigan State rivalry, the story behind his iconic Paul Bunyan celebration and the lifelong brotherhood that comes with playing at Michigan.Wormley and Morgan also dive into Michigan Basketball's European tour, the potential of the Wolverines' new-look roster and why the experience could pay dividends later in the season.
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7 min
Who Assembled the Better Team? | The LAB
Show notes
The first pack opening of the 2026 Valiant Michigan Football Trading Cards is here!Hosts of The LAB, Chris Wormley and Jordan Morgan, open packs from the new 2026 Valiant Michigan Football Trading Card Collection, featuring current Wolverines and Michigan Football legends.The packs include limited-edition parallels, specialty inserts, 1-of-1s and authentic autographs, with cards featuring Bryce Underwood, Jordan Marshall, Andrew Marsh, Rod Moore and more, alongside Michigan legends including Anthony Carter, Dan Dierdorf, Jim Harbaugh and Bo Schembechler.Chris and Jordan go card-for-card, discuss what makes each player stand out and see who can build the better team before picking their top three cards.Who had the better pulls? Let us know in the comments.Shop the 2026 Valiant Michigan Football Trading Cards:https://shop.championscircleuofm.com/s/cmtcVisit Champions Circle NIL Shop:https://shop.championscircleuofm.com/s/9a811aLearn more about our partnership with Champions Circle: https://www.collegesportsco.com/news/champions-circle-and-college-sports-co-launch-champ-media
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16 min
Football or Basketball: What Is Michigan REALLY Known For? | The Lab
Show notes
Chris Wormley and Jordan Morgan are talking all things Michigan — and they're starting with a debate Wolverines fans will definitely have opinions about: Is Michigan a football school or a basketball school?The former Michigan Football standout and former Michigan Basketball star compare championship teams, debate which sport is harder to play, revisit unforgettable Wolverines moments and explain what makes the Michigan fanbase unlike any other.Wormley makes the case for Michigan Football's championship tradition, while Morgan argues for Michigan Basketball's success, cultural impact and recent dominance. They also debate the 2023 football championship team vs. the basketball championship squad, whether basketball players could transition to football, whether football players could survive on a basketball court and the near-impossible challenge of hitting an MLB fastball.Plus, Chris and Jordan explain why they wanted to stay connected to Michigan Athletics and what fans can expect from The Lab and Champ Media throughout the season.
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