In this episode, we sit down with Ryan Bertin, one of Michigan’s all-time greats and a two-time NCAA champion at 157 pounds. From his dominant high school run at St. Edward in Ohio to becoming a four-time All-American for the Wolverines, Ryan shares lessons from a career that cemented him as a Big Ten Wrestler of the Year and Hall of Honor inductee.

We dive into the mindset that fueled his success, the role of coaching and culture at Michigan, and how those experiences carried into his coaching career at Northwestern. Whether you’re a wrestler, coach, or fan of the sport, this conversation offers a rare look at the drive, humility, and leadership behind one of the most decorated athletes in college wrestling history.

On episode #137 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Nate Engle of the Army World Class Athlete Program (WCAP). Engle shares how his journey as a competitor and coach has shaped his approach to developing elite athletes in one of the most disciplined training environments in the country.

From balancing military demands with international competition to building resilient athletes who can thrive under pressure, Engle opens up about what it takes to succeed at the highest level. He also discusses the culture within WCAP, the challenges of identifying and preparing the next wave of talent, and the lessons that translate beyond the mat.

On this episode of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Frank Beasley, Head Coach at George Mason University, to talk about the state of the Patriots wrestling program. Coach Beasley shares how the team has steadily built momentum, returning five national qualifiers this season while graduating only one starter. He reflects on the culture his staff is shaping, the excitement in the room, and the growth he’s seen from year to year.

We also get into the challenges of competing in a tough conference, what it takes to attract and develop top recruits, and how Mason is carving out its place on the national stage. From preseason training to long-term program vision, Beasley gives an inside look at what’s fueling GMU wrestling right now.

In this episode of the Athletor Podcast, Utah Valley head coach Adam Hall sits down to discuss his transition into leading the Wolverines and the lessons he’s carrying over from years of competing and coaching. Hall talks about what he expects from his athletes—focusing on effort, discipline, and doing the small things right—as he works to build a strong foundation for Utah Valley Wrestling.

The conversation dives into the challenges of establishing a program identity in the Big 12, how to balance the demands of coaching with developing athletes on and off the mat, and why accountability and culture are at the core of long-term success. Hall also shares insight into recruiting, adapting to the evolving NIL landscape, and what it takes to compete against powerhouse programs.

Episode 134 of the Athletor Podcast features Teyon Ware, Head Coach at Northern Colorado. Ware dives into his transition into the head coaching role, outlining the challenges, responsibilities, and excitement that come with leading a Division I program. He explains what it means to set a standard for his team and how he expects athletes to uphold the brand both on and off the mat.

From culture-building to accountability, Ware stresses the importance of discipline, consistency, and doing the small things right. He shares his vision for Northern Colorado wrestling, his approach to developing athletes, and what it takes to move a program forward in today’s landscape.

On Episode 133 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Lee Pritts, Assistant Coach at Arizona State University. Known for his energy, passion, and relentless work ethic, Pritts shares what it takes to build culture inside a top Division I program while staying connected to the athletes on a personal level.

We dive into his journey through coaching, his philosophy on recruiting, and the evolution of the sport with NIL, the transfer portal, and the growing spotlight on wrestling. Pritts also breaks down what makes Arizona State unique, the challenges of staying competitive at the highest level, and why he still thrives on being in the wrestling room every day.

In this episode of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Kenny Monday, Head Coach at Morgan State University. Monday shares his coaching journey, the challenges and opportunities of building the Morgan State program, and what it takes to develop athletes both on and off the mat.

We also dive into culture, recruiting, and the vision for wrestling at Morgan State as they continue to grow the program and compete at the highest level.

Pitt Associate Coach Drew Headlee joins the show to talk about his journey from standout competitor to leading one of the nation’s top wrestling programs. He shares insights on developing athletes, building trust, and adapting to the constantly evolving college wrestling landscape.

We dive into topics like recruiting philosophies, training adjustments, and what it takes to prepare wrestlers for success at the highest level. Drew also reflects on his own competitive career and the lessons that continue to shape his coaching approach today.

On Episode 130 of the Athletor Podcast, we’re joined by Nick Brascetta, Associate Head Coach at the University of Maryland. Brascetta dives into the evolving responsibilities of an associate head coach, how the role shifts from program to program, and what leadership looks like at the Power Five level.

We also cover Maryland’s developmental strategy, building buy-in from athletes, and how Brascetta balances recruiting, coaching, and culture-building. If you're looking for insights into what it really takes to elevate a Big Ten wrestling program, this one’s a must-listen.

In Episode 129 of the Athletor Podcast, we sit down with Kyle Ruschell, Head Coach at the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga. Kyle shares his journey from a standout athlete in Kentucky to leading a D1 program in the heart of the South. He talks about the lessons he’s taken from his time at Wisconsin, how he’s building a strong culture at UTC, and what it takes to recruit and develop talent in a non-traditional wrestling region.

We also get into the importance of authenticity in coaching, the power of consistency, and the challenges that come with growing a program outside the Big Ten spotlight. Whether you're a coach, athlete, or wrestling fan, this conversation offers real insight into what it takes to build something special from the ground up.