FrontRunners Podcast

In this episode, we sit down with Alexandra Allred — athlete, author, and a member of the first U.S. women's bobsled team. Alexandra shares her powerful journey in sport, her experience competing while pregnant, and the inspiration behind her book When Women Stood.

Together, we uncover the often-overlooked history of women in sports and examine both the progress made and the challenges that continue to shape athletics today.

Alexandra also looks ahead to the future of women's sports, offering thoughtful insight on the mindset needed to keep moving the game forward. We wrap up with a high-energy, rapid-fire round packed with inspiration, honesty, and unforgettable answers.

Guest: Alexandra Allred

Hosts: Emmalie Sliter & Madison Green

Produced and Directed: Avelina Sayfetdinova, Madison Green, Emmalie Sliter

Executive Producer: Dr. Kayla Peak

Check us out on Instagram and X (Twitter) @Tarleton_KINE

In this episode of the FrontRunners Podcast, we sit down with Coach Jazmyne Johnson, the leader helping shape the future of Tarleton State Volleyball. From her competitive upbringing in DeSoto, Texas, to coaching stops across the South, Coach Johnson shares how her journey sparked a passion for teaching, leadership, and building a championship-level program at Tarleton.

We explore her coaching philosophy, the culture she's creating, and the ways she supports student-athletes both on and off the court. Coach Johnson also reflects on the growing spotlight on women in sports and how that momentum is inspiring the next generation.

Plus, we talk team identity, what fans can expect this season, and her advice for young players looking to take their game to the next level.

Guest: Coach Jazmyne Johnson

Hosts: Avelina Sayfetdinova & Emmalie Sliter

Produced and Directed: Madison Green, Avelina Sayetdinova, Emmalie Sliter

Executive Producer: Dr. Kayla Peak

Check us out on Instagram and X (Twitter)... @Tarleton_KINE

In this special Thanksgiving episode of FrontRunners, we sit down with Professor Amy McKay — a force in human performance and a beloved Tarleton State educator known for her motto: "Make every day the BEST DAY EVER."

Amy shares the origin of her Best Day Ever philosophy, how gratitude shapes her mindset, and why embracing life's small moments can measurably improve stress, sleep, mood, and overall well-being. She opens up about her path into movement and health, her passion for teaching, and the daily habits that help her and her students thrive — even on the tough days.

Whether you're an athlete, a student, or simply someone looking to live with more purpose and positivity, this episode offers practical tools, uplifting insights, and a powerful reminder that gratitude can truly transform both body and mind.

Guest: Amy McKay

Hosts: Avelina Sayfetdinova & Madison Green

Produced and Directed: Avelina Sayfetdinova, Madison Green, Emmalie Sliter

Executive Producer: Dr. Kayla Peak

Check us out on Instagram & X (Twitter)... @Tarleton_KINE

In this episode of the FrontRunners Podcast, we sit down with Barry Tooley—fitness professional, educator, and passionate advocate for helping people move, live, and feel better. Barry opens up about his path into the fitness world, sharing pivotal moments that shaped his purpose, mentors who inspired him, and lessons that continue to guide his work today.

We dig into his coaching philosophy, the most significant misconceptions he sees in the fitness space, and how he blends science, empathy, and genuine human connection to create meaningful change. As an educator, Barry offers powerful insights into what today's Kinesiology & Sport Management students truly need, why internships can be career-defining, and how he helps bridge the gap between classroom theory and real-world practice.

From industry trends and emerging technology, to career advice for aspiring trainers, to the routines he relies on for balance and motivation—this conversation is full of inspiration and practical takeaways for anyone passionate about health, movement, or personal growth.

Tune in to hear Barry's story and walk away with real-world wisdom you can apply to your own fitness journey or coaching career.

Guest: Barry Tooley

Host: Emmalie Sliter, Madison Green

Produced and Directed: Avelina Sayfetdinova, Madison Green, Emmalie Sliter

Executive Producer: Dr. Kayla Peak

Check us out on Instagram & X (Twitter)... @Tarleton_KINE

In this episode of Front Runners, we sit down with Dr. Megan O'Quin, Executive Senior Associate Athletic Director and Senior Womens Administrator at Tarleton State University. She shares her journey through collegiate athletics, the vital role of the SWA, and how she leads with purpose - empowering student-athletes and advancing women's leadership in sport.

Hosts: Avelina Sayfetdinova, Madison Green

Produced and Directed: Avelina Sayfetdinova, Madison Green, Emmalie Sliter

Executive Producer: Dr. Kayla Peak

Check us out on Instagram & X (Twitter)... @Tarleton_KINE

In In God's Country and Mine (1954), historian Jacques Barzun wrote, "Whoever wants to know the heart and mind of America had better learn baseball." In this episode, Dr. Jarrod Schenewark and Dr. Steve Simpson share ten baseball films that capture how the game reflects America's spirit, values, and enduring love of baseball.

Hosts: Dr. Jarrod Schenewark & Dr. Steve Simpson

Produced & Directed: Avelina Sayfetdinova

Executive Producer: Dr. Kayla Peak

Check us out on Instagram & X (Twitter) ... @Tarleton_KINE

In this episode, we sit down with Samuel Bilderbeck, the Chief of Staff at Sports Business Ventures (SBV) — a trailblazing company redefining how sports organizations grow, connect, and innovate.

This conversation is packed with real-world insights for sport management students, faculty, and future industry leaders. Samuel shares his journey from student to senior leadership, offering a transparent look into what it takes to build a meaningful career in the competitive world of sports business.

Sports Business Ventures - https://sportsbusinessventures.com/

Follow Samuel Bilderbeck on LinkedIn: Samuel Bilderbeck, MBA

Host: Dr. Rachel Elms

Guest: Samuel Bilderbeck

Produced & Directed: Avelina Sayfetdinova

Executive Director: Dr. Kayla Peak

Check us out on Instagram & X (Twitter) ... @Tarleton_KINE

Applied learning isn't just a teaching method—it's a game changer. In sport management, it's the difference between memorizing concepts and mastering them. At Tarleton, we don't just talk about teamwork, leadership, and problem-solving—we let students live it. Through real projects, community partnerships, and hands-on experiences, students build the confidence and skills employers actually want. Whether you're a student ready to say "yes" to new opportunities, a faculty member creating them, or an industry partner opening doors, you're part of something bigger. Because here, applied learning isn't a buzzword—it's how we make sure our students aren't just in the stands, they are IN THE GAME.

Guest Host: Dr. Rachel Elms

Produced & Directed: Avelina Sayfetdinova

Executive Director: Dr. Kayla Peak

Check us out on Instagram & X (Twitter) ... @Tarleton_KINE

The next generation of kinesiology & sport leaders are tech-savvy, innovative, and eager in their pursuit of excellence. Join us as we kickoff the Fall 2025 semester.

Produced & Directed: Avelina Sayfetdinova

Executive Director: Dr. Kayla Peak

Check us out on Instagram & X (Twitter) ... @Tarleton_KINE

Join Dr. Joe Priest and Dr. Neil Petroff as they dive into the dynamic intersection of kinesiology and engineering technology. In this episode, they explore how cutting-edge engineering solutions are being used to understand, enhance, and optimize human movement. Through their collaborative work in the Lab for Wellness & Motor Behavior, they're transforming lives—especially for individuals living with paralysis or the effects of stroke (cerebrovascular accidents). From adapted movement strategies to innovative wearable sensors, discover how their work is advancing mobility, recovery, and quality of life.

Produced & Directed: Travis Paul

Executive Director: Dr. Kayla Peak

Check us out on Instagram & X (Twitter) ... @Tarleton_KINE