Shane Reese never applied to be the president of Brigham Young University nor was he aware he was even being considered for the role. How did this lively statistician end up with this unique assignment? In this part 1 episode, he outlines the appointment process and dives into what a day is like for the president of BYU. He also elaborates on the importance of BYU athletics in achieving the university's broader goals.

Former BYU Basketball center Aly Khalifa entered the transfer portal just a day after recording an interview with host Jason Shepherd. So, why are we releasing this episode after he decided to transfer to Louisville? Well, Aly loved his time at BYU and the conversation with him was fascinating. The former BYU Cougar discussed what it was like growing up in Egypt, getting noticed internationally for his play, and adjusting to life overseas. He also talked about what it's like to practice his Muslim faith in a place like BYU, especially during Ramadan.

Following an incredible 2021 season at Baylor, Gerry Bohanon was on top of the world. After leading the Bears to the Big 12 Championship game and a Sugar Bowl victory, Gerry expected to continue his collegiate career at Baylor as the starting QB. But it didn’t happen. So, how did he overcome that disappointment? In this second part episode, Bohannon details his journey from Baylor to South Florida, eventually to BYU, and how he found strength in God along the way.

BYU quarterback Gerry Bohanon has fought hard to return to the football field. A horrific injury on his throwing shoulder could have ended his career. So how did he make it back? Bohanon shares how his relationships with God and his family powered him through, and how a guy from a tiny town like him can make it big.

BYU wide receiver Keelan Marion can talk a big game. So, where did he learn that confidence? And why does it seem like Keelan's always smiling? Find out in our first edition of Deep Blue's Practice Chats.

After nearly a decade of investigating the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, Tom Holmoe woke up one day and was ready to be baptized. Why the sudden change of heart? In part 2 of our interview with the Cougars' Athletic Director, Tom explains the role his wife, family, and a dream played in his conversion. He also tackles his NFL and coaching careers, his relationship with the late LaVell Edwards, and the legacy he hopes to leave at BYU.

Out of high school, Tom Holmoe's family never wanted him to go to BYU. What brought him to Provo as a student-athlete, and more importantly, what made him return years later to work in the athletic department? Tom discusses the football injury that put BYU on his radar and how that changed the trajectory of his life forever. He also talks about what it's like to be the Cougars' athletic director and how he has been so successful in his role over the last 19 years.

Few people understand the mind better than Dr. Craig Manning. But as an amateur on the international tennis tour out of high school, he struggled mightily with mental strength. How did he learn to master the mind? Dr. Manning documents his journey to BYU, his conversion to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, and how he became the mental strength coach for BYU athletics and the Milwaukee Bucks.

This week, we highlight one of our other BYUradio podcasts. Big Stories tells the amazing tales surrounding BYU's opponents in the Big 12.

Thane Baker desired to run in the Olympics at an early age. His mother timed him every day with an alarm clock. Then, an accident at a garage almost derailed Thane's budding track career. In this episode, discover how Baker walked on to the Kansas State track team, lived out his dream as one of the fastest men in the world, and was eventually honored as one of the greats in Wildcat sports history.

Guests:

Thane Baker - former Kansas State and Olympic Track Star

Catherine Nicholson - Baker's daughter and author of the book, "Running in Borrowed Shoes: Thane Baker and the 1952 Summer Games"

Cliff Rovelto - Kansas State Track and Field Head Coach

The Hall family has made quite the name for itself in Provo, Utah, but none of it would have happened had it not been for a few important choices by the father, Kalin Hall. The former Cougar's star running back opens up about these choices and how they led him to convert to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and to transfer to BYU. He also talks about accepting the head coaching job at Maple Mountain High School, the importance of his faith, and what it's like being the father of NFL player, Jaren Hall.