Big Stories

When a tragic car accident left TCU equestrian Sydney Feager with catastrophic injuries, doctors gave her a grim diagnosis: she might never walk again—let alone ride a horse. But Sydney defied every expectation.

In this episode, host Cleon Wall sits down with BYUtv producer Brandon Crowe and director Zane O'Gwynn to unpack a story that goes far beyond survival. Discover how faith, relentless determination, and an unwavering community fuelled a miraculous comeback that transformed not just Sydney's life, but everyone around her.

Host Cleon Wall will be back next week with more inspiring and uplifting tales from around the Big 12 conference. But this week, we are featuring one of BYUradio's other great podcasts, Top of Mind with Julie Rose. In this episode, Julie explores whether sports fandom is good for America. The episode takes a closer look at why we become so invested in sports and what that fandom can mean for our relationships, our communities, and even the way we see ourselves.

What does it take to turn tragedy into purpose? Host Cleon Wall, producer Brandon Crow, and director Zane O'Gwin dive into the inspiring story of former Colorado State offensive lineman Zack Golditch. From surviving the Aurora theater shooting to protecting his community as a firefighter and helping children through his foundation, Golditch has built a life defined by service and resilience. The team discusses his reluctance to step into the spotlight and the lessons his journey teaches about courage, leadership, and becoming the hero of your own story.

Before he became a seven-time Pro Bowl linebacker, Lance Briggs was the smallest kid on his team—and terrified of contact. In this episode, host Cleon Wall, producer Brandon Crowe, and director Zane O'Gwin trace the former Arizona Wildcat's evolution on and off the field. From his passion for comic books and youth coaching to a graphic novel inspired by his childhood, candid stories from Lance, his mom, and former teammates reveal an NFL legend who never forgot his roots.

Season 4 of The Big Stories Podcast begins with the incredible rise of the Utah Tech pickleball team and how they put people before pickleball.

Host Cleon Wall is joined by producer Ben Bagley and director Travis Moore to explore BYUtv's Big Story on the Trailblazer team that transformed from a campus social club into one of the country's most dominant collegiate programs. Beyond the wins, this episode highlights the culture built by coach Chloe Butterfield and the life-changing friendships that helped players like Mary Monson overcome personal challenges and find a sense of family.

The Big Stories Podcast is back on September 3. In this season preview, host Cleon Wall discusses the podcast's exciting partnership with BYUtv and teases some of the incredible stories featured in season four.

In our final installment of the summer BYUTV Big Stories rewind series, host Cleon Wall recaps two more of BYUTV's big stories from season 3.

First, former UFC champion Rich Franklin shares how he traded fame and championship belts for something more meaningful — faith and community.

Then, NFL veteran Latavius Murray opens up about losing his best friend and how he's turning tragedy into a lasting legacy for kids in his hometown.

Two stories about finding purpose beyond the spotlight.

Check out the full stories at BYUSN.com

In this episode, host Cleon Wall takes you through two more inspiring stories from Big Stories Season 3 on BYUtv.

First, meet Graham Harrell — Texas Tech legend and Ring of Honor inductee. Beyond his record-breaking passing career, Graham's story is one of faith, family, and resilience, from his father's battle with multiple sclerosis to navigating the highs and lows of a coaching career that eventually led him right where he was meant to be.

Then, we turn to TCU's James Cash — a trailblazer who became the first Black athlete at TCU and the first Black basketball scholarship athlete in the Southwest Conference. From facing racial prejudice on and off the court to earning tenure at Harvard Business School and joining the Boston Celtics ownership group, Dr. Cash's life is a testament to what's possible when you keep climbing the stairs.

Check out the full stories on BYUSN.com

The Big Stories team is excited to check in again and feature two more stories from BYUTV's Big Stories last fall.

From small-town Fruitland, Idaho, Jordan Gross went on to play offensive line at the University of Utah, was drafted by the Carolina Panthers in 2003, and had a successful NFL career. After retiring, he returned home to coach football at his high school, becoming a beloved mentor to his players. He has since come full circle and was hired as the University of Utah's newest offensive line coach.

Next, meet David Carr, who is carrying on the legendary wrestling legacy of his father, three-time NCAA champion Nate Carr, at Iowa State. Known for his fierce rivalry with Missouri's Keegan O'Toole, David has continued competing at the highest level after college, all while mentoring the next generation of wrestlers.

Watch to the full stories on BYUSN.com

Welcome back to another bi-weekly feature of BYUTV's Big Stories episodes from last fall.

First, meet Kevin Pittsnogle, a former Mountaineer basketball star known for his sharpshooting on the court. After stepping away from the game, he earned a master's degree in special education and became a middle school principal, transforming a struggling school and proving that the labels placed on us don't have to define who we become.

Then, hear from Amanda Beard, who won three Olympic medals — but the pressure and spotlight that came with early fame took a serious toll. She battled eating disorders, self-harm, and depression while continuing to compete at the highest level. Her story is one of raw resilience: how she fought through her darkest moments and now uses her experiences to coach and inspire the next generation of swimmers.

Listen to the full stories on BYUSN.com