The Eastern Insider Podcast wrapped up Season 7 with a high-energy finale as hosts Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner were joined by EMU Head Football Coach Chris Creighton, quarterback Noah Kim, and cheer captain Elena Davis. Coach Creighton reflected on a productive spring, emphasizing growth, chemistry, and innovation—like crossover drills that helped players understand both sides of the ball. Noah Kim discussed his transition from Michigan State, praising EMU’s culture and his evolving connection with teammates. Elena Davis, fresh off a top-7 finish at NCA Nationals, shared her pride in the cheer team’s resilience and excitement for what’s ahead. The biggest headline, however, was the announcement that NFL star and EMU legend Maxx Crosby is officially returning to the program as Assistant GM. Crosby will lead a player mentorship initiative, inspire future “MAXX” position defenders, and kickstart the “Maxx Challenge,” matching NIL donations up to $100,000.

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Episode 27 of the Eastern Insider Podcast is all about celebration—of the past, present, and future of Eastern Michigan Athletics. Hosts Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner open with a deep dive into the standout performers of the year, naming breakout student-athletes like Christian Henry and Lily Wilhelm, unforgettable moments like Jalen Terry’s deep buzzer-beater, and honoring coaches who’ve reshaped their programs. With one episode left in the season, the duo relives the highlights that defined EMU in 2024–25. They also look ahead to an action-filled weekend, led by Friday night’s Spring Football Game at Rynearson Stadium, where fans can catch position battles, donate books for a cause, and snag some EMU swag. Plus, Elena Davis joins for an emotional reflection on cheer, growth, and gratitude as she heads to her final nationals.

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This episode of Eastern Insider puts a spotlight on Eastern Michigan Women’s Basketball and the challenges of the ever-changing transfer portal, as head coach Sahar Nusseibeh shares her approach to rebuilding a roster with just three returning players. She details the importance of recruiting the right character, not just talent, while navigating a system that’s been dubbed the “Wild West.” On the football side, defensive coordinator Ben Needham provides a spring ball update, emphasizing player development, competition, and a focus on increasing takeaways. With new faces stepping into key roles, the Eagles are laying the foundation for a strong 2025 season.

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In Episode 25 of the Eastern Insider Podcast, Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner dive into a jam-packed weekend of EMU sports, where frigid temperatures couldn’t cool down the Eagles' red-hot performances. EMU lacrosse crushed Youngstown State behind a six-goal effort from Katheryn Wilson, while goalie Maddie Porter shared her mindset on mental toughness and leadership. Meanwhile, baseball put up 19 runs against Miami, with Logan Hugo just missing a cycle and Bruce Jellison staying on fire at the plate. Head Coach Robbie Britt discussed his team's offensive surge ahead of a showdown with Michigan, and Elena Davis joined to talk March Madness, her first baseball broadcast, and the upcoming Eastern Echo Banquet.

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In this St. Patrick’s Day edition of Eastern Insider, hosts Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner dive into a packed lineup of EMU sports. Rower Lily Wilhelm shares how she turned rejection into record-breaking success, while baseball coach Robbie Britt reflects on his team’s season-opening road trip and excitement for their first home games. Cheerleader and sports journalist Elena Davis joins to talk about EMU Club Hockey’s historic Nationals bid and her thoughts on March Madness. With lacrosse’s home opener and a fresh look at the NCAA tournament brackets, it’s a can’t-miss episode for Eagles fans

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In Episode 23 of the Eastern Insider Podcast, Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner break down Eastern Michigan men's basketball’s thrilling road to the Mid-American Conference Tournament, highlighting a team that’s focused, hungry, and ready to make noise in Cleveland. Standouts Da'Sean Nelson and Yusuf Jihad join to reflect on the journey — from early-season promises to late-season surges — emphasizing the team's unique chemistry, improved health, and growing confidence. With a first-round matchup against Miami, both players and hosts agree: this team believes it can go all the way to the championship, fueled by determination and a rare shot at MAC glory.

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Episode 22 of the Eastern Insider Podcast dives into a critical stretch for Eastern Michigan basketball as the Eagles chase a MAC Tournament berth, highlighted by a dominant senior night win over Central Michigan. Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner break down the unpredictable standings and preview upcoming road battles, while also spotlighting the impressive journey of women's basketball assistant coach Meg Cunningham, who has NBA coaching dreams, and baseball grad transfer Harrison Travis, whose resilience and leadership are making an early impact in Ypsilanti. With March in full swing, it's a pivotal time across EMU athletics.

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Episode 21 of The Eastern Insider recaps one of the most electrifying moments in EMU basketball history—a buzzer-beater by Jalin Terry that extended the Eagles' winning streak to three, the longest in the MAC. With a pivotal week ahead, EMU has a chance to clinch a MAC Tournament berth for the first time since 2018. The women’s basketball team also made waves with a hard-fought road win, while EMU Gymnastics, Track & Field, and Rowing gear up for key competitions. Special guests included rowing coach Kemp Savage, who discussed his team’s progress and standout Lily Wilhelm, and baseball’s Cooper Vance, who reflected on his growth as an everyday player.

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In Episode 20 of Eastern Insider, Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner debate whether the Super Bowl should be moved to Saturday, critique college football’s scheduling decisions, and analyze the Philadelphia Eagles’ defensive dominance. The episode also introduces EMU’s new offensive line coach, Chris Wiesehan, who shares his coaching philosophy and vision for the team. Senior outfielder Logan Hugo joins the show to discuss his leadership role, offseason improvements, and the baseball team’s goals for the upcoming season. With crucial MAC basketball matchups ahead, the hosts emphasize the importance of finishing strong for postseason play.

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In Episode 19 of Eastern Insider, Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner recap EMU basketball’s tough week, with the women’s team showing resilience despite a loss to Toledo and the men’s squad struggling with consistency. Lacrosse standout Mackenzie Blackwell sets her sights on a 100-goal milestone and MAC domination, while baseball ace Bobby Jones shares how refining his changeup and an aggressive mindset will shape his success in 2025. From hardwood battles to diamond dominance, EMU athletes are gearing up for big seasons ahead.

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