Longshots with Darren Reilly

What does it take to go from drawing up plays on the sidelines of high school practice to becoming one of the most respected voices at CBS Sports HQ and SportsLine? On this episode of LongShots, I sit down with Emory Hunt, the founder of Football Gameplan and the man known globally as "The Czar of the Playbook."

Emory’s journey is the ultimate blueprint for anyone who has ever been told to "go sit down." From his playing days as a running back at the University of Louisiana at Lafayette to launching his own media empire in 2007, Emory has spent nearly two decades outworking the room. He didn’t wait for the mainstream media to give him a platform

What does it take to stay relevant in Hollywood for over two decades? On this episode of Long Shots, Darren Reilly sits down with veteran actor, author, and host of the 10,000 Noes podcast, Matt Del Negro, to pull back the curtain on the acting industry.

Matt takes us back to the moment his life changed: being cast as Brian Cammarata in the legendary HBO series The Sopranos. He shares what it was like stepping onto one of the most iconic sets in television history and how he parlayed that "long shot" into a storied career.

We dive deep into his current heavy-hitting role as Will Breen in the Paramount+ hit Mayor of Kingstown, discussing the intensity of working in the Taylor Sheridan universe alongside Jeremy Renner.

Probably the most exciting dicussion in the episode is his passion project “Mickey Brasch” coming to life after years of drafts.  

Plus, don't miss our exclusive talk about Matt’s latest project! He’s starring in the highly anticipated scripted comedy series Free Bert, alongside comedian Bert Kreischer, launching on Netflix on January 22.

In this episode, we discuss:

The "First Big Break": Getting the call for The Sopranos.

Surviving Kingstown: Playing the complex and tragic Will Breen.

👕 Putting on a shirt: His role in the new Netflix comedy Free Bert.

🚫 The "10,000 Noes" Philosophy: How to handle rejection and keep the "Long Shot" alive.

🎬 Longevity in Hollywood: Staying power in an ever-changing industry.

Follow Matt Del Negro: Instagram: Instagram: @mattydel 
Podcast: 10,000 Noes

Follow Long Shots:  
Instagram: @reilly_darren 
Tiktok: @longshotspod

In this episode, we dive deep into the transformative journey of Kayy Finn, a former NYC special education teacher and school counselor who courageously transitioned from the structured world of education to the vibrant realm of entrepreneurship with her brand, Strawberryzskies. Facing the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Kayy shares her struggles with burnout, wrongful termination threats, and the emotional toll of supporting hundreds of students and families during a time of crisis.

Discover how she channeled her experiences into creating a multifaceted brand that not only offers unique wearable art but also supports mental health awareness. Through heartfelt stories and inspiring reflections, Kayy emphasizes the importance of resilience, community, and self-love. Join us as we explore how the sun sets to make way for new tomorrows and learn that even in dark times, hope and connection can flourish.

This inspiring episode of “Longshots,” we sit down with Billy Pinckney, a content creator whose passion for faith and community shines through in everything he does. As a dedicated content creator and children’s book author, Billy uses storytelling to ignite imagination and foster positive change in the lives of young readers. Billy’s deep love for baseball, he shares how the sport has shaped his values and commitment to community betterment. 

Please take the time to listen as we discuss his impactful projects, and the role of faith in his life. Tune in for a conversation filled with hope, creativity, and a shared vision for a brighter future.

In this compelling episode of Longshots, we sit down with Mike Dolce, renowned MMA trainer, fitness guru, and serial entrepreneur. Mike’s journey is a testament to resilience and hard work, as he shares his inspiring story of rising from humble beginnings. Once a driven high school wrestler with dreams of a collegiate athletic scholarship, his aspirations were cut short by injury. 

Despite this setback, Mike’s unwavering work ethic and humility, shaped by life’s tough lessons, propelled him on a path to becoming the best version of himself. 

Join us as we delve into Mike's insights on the importance of hard work, education, financial responsibility, community, and, of course, fitness. This episode promises to motivate and inspire as Mike shares the principles that have guided him throughout his life. 

The Unassuming Media Executive: Doug Pfaff Is Inspired As He Navigates The New Horizon of His Career  

In this episode, we sit down with a seasoned media executive and old friend Doug Pfaff.  I met Doug when I first graduated college at Blair/Petry TV.  I worked in research directly across from his office where he sat as Vice President of Group Sales.  He was loud, funny, direct, and compassionate.  I wanted what he had.   

We talk more life than career in this episode.    Doug discusses the moments that shaped his life over the years. He’s a great storyteller and full of energy. It has been a blessing to reconnect with him .  Please take a moment to listen.  

In this inspiring episode of Longshots, we are joined by Victor Oliveira, a former drug addict and inmate turned “Good Boss” He shares with us his journey of life and how that journey turned into a commitment of service to others.  

This commitment took on the life of spreading kindness and offering support to those experiencing homelessness. His landscaping company, Victor demonstrates what it means to be a good boss by treating his workers with respect and creating a positive work environment. 

Discover how social media and community outreach are being used to make a difference, and witness the power of second chances. Subscribe to follow Victor's journey and be inspired by his message of hope, compassion, and the importance of helping one another.

Today's guest is a longtime friend, BJ Maier. 

BJ was a producer for the hit Television show the Goldbergs and we discuss how he hustled in the early days to make a career for himself in Hollywood. 

We dive deep on the people that actually make up Hollywood and are often not mentioned - the working class. BJ has most recently directed and produced a new Documentary, highlighting the life and achievements of George Segal, which premiered at the Garden State Film Festival in March. 

Todays episode is sponsored by KAFX body natural deodorant - go to KAFXbody.com to start smelling great and treating your body right. 

On this weeks episode we have the amazing Ben Gravy. Ben has traveled the world in search of just about any kinds of waves he can find. As a novelty wave surfer there are no bad waves to Ben and that same optimism shines through in our conversation. 

We discuss the origins of Ben's name and brand, his decision to become sober and of course we chop it up about surfing as well. 

It was an absolute blast to have Ben on the show - big thanks to him for coming on and opening up to us about his story. 

If you would like to check out Ben's work, you can here: http://www.youtube.com/@BenGravyy

On today's episode we welcome an old friend, Ryan Kapp - founder of 7th Ave Productions and documentarian/creator of the new film InHuMaine. 

InHuMaine sheds light on the human stories behind the statistics, offering a raw and intimate portrayal of life on the streets, in shelters, and amidst the challenges of finding stability and hope. Through compelling narratives and candid interviews, we invite you to witness the complexities of homelessness - the harsh realities, the triumphs, and the everyday struggles that shape the lives of those without a place to call home. 

We discuss the new film, his time in Maine and his journey that brought him to recovery and here with us! 

Big thanks to Ryan for stopping by, please check out 7th Avenue Productions here and follow the film! - https://www.7thavepro.com/