Detroit’s star Wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown continues to make headlines with major off season moves, first re-signing with the Lions for a 4 year $120M extension and now starring in the NFL's new Netflix series "Receiver", following the highly popular Quarterback series last year, the show is expected to be a summer hit.

Ryan, Channing and Fred sat down with 2x Pro Bowler Amon-Ra St. Brown to talk about his upbringing in a strict but motivating household, the recent surge from the Detroit Lions and how he’s utilized the chip on his shoulder from falling in the 2021 draft to becoming one of the highest paid wide receivers in the league.

Amon-Ra shares his family history and mindset developed from a young age, always working harder and playing with a chip on his shoulder after dropping to late rounds in the NFL Draft to naming all 16 wide outs who's name was called before his using it as motivation to not allow someone's name to be called before his when it counted. Ryan talks about watching him during 7 on 7 as a high schooler and was blown away not just with his talent but his grit.

Amon prides himself in being more of a "I can show you better than I can tell you" player as he's had a pivotal role on transforming the Lions from a 3-13 team his rookie year to playing in the NFC Championship this past season and credits the leadership of head coach Dan Campbell and tight knit locker room for Detroit's fast turn around. Falling one game short of the Super Bowl left a sting in the team's core and this offseason has been focused on starting with that same momentum heading into training camp with a roster full of talent, St. Brown knows they are a serious contender, now taken seriously in the league and have a target on their back heading into 2024 season despite still being considered the NFL's underdogs.

St. Brown reflects on the foundations that shaped him from his unique family dynamic having a bodybuilder father, the former Mr. World, who trained him and his two brothers (one of whom also plays in the NFL), and a multilingual mother who exposed the family to diverse cultures around the globe with emphasizing education and experience. Developing a 1% mentality of always being better and outworking the next, whether it was catching 202 passes off the jugs machine daily or lifting weights with his siblings, Amon-Ra spent his life crafting his passion for football and credits his close-knit family for instilling that work ethic and determination that has now defined his NFL rise as a talented, gritty wide receiver, vying for that top spot.

And with the release of NFL's Netflix Series "Receiver", St. Brown's stardom will continue to grow far beyond the gridiron into a household name as his story on and off the field unfolds from a young boy from Compton to now one of the highest paid Wide Receivers in the league. "Receiver" premieres on Netflix July 10th showcasing an unprecedented window into the toughest job in sports featuring St. Brown alongside NFL stars Devante Adams, Justin Jefferson, George Kittle and Deebo Samuel.

New York City, come meet us at Fanatics Fest NYC! We’ll be recording our podcast LIVE with some special guests, signing autographs, meeting fans, taking photos and more. We’re excited to be at FFNYC alongside some of the biggest names in sports such as Tom Brady, Derek Jeter, Kevin Durant, Sabrina Ionescu, and more. FFNYC is happening August 16 –18, 2004 at the Javits Center. Visit https://bit.ly/3R0f8hn to buy your tickets now!

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"They have to connect with you, otherwise they're watching fireworks, and we really only watch fireworks once a year." Cody Rhodes WWE Champion

The WWE is reaching milestones and peaking at levels that haven't been reached since the old days of icons and legends in the ring due to the intriguing storylines, big names and fan loyalty that's second to none. Attending their first live WWE event, Ryan talks about the electricity in the arena and how the entire night kept you on the edge of your seat.

Ryan, Channing and Fred invite the current WWE Champion Cody Rhodes to Fanatics Headquarters in NYC to talk about his rise to stardom, the state of the WWE, honoring his father Dusty Rhodes’ legacy, how he secured a victory at WrestleMania LX, revealing the secret to success in Pro Wrestling.

The most recent WrestleMania showcased WWE phenoms alongside current stars, and Cody Rhodes shocked the world when he defeated Roman Reigns for the Universal Championship belt. With the return of The Rock to that massive event, Cody goes in-depth on how at one moment he thought the odds were against him to win the belt as he describes what it was like to have the biggest movie star on the planet and man who broke barriers in pro wrestling come back to challenge the throne.

Riding the highs and lows of his career, getting to the top was a tough journey but staying there is even harder. Cody talks about his connection to the fans keeps him going, and shares a never-told-before story that provides insight into who Cody is not just as the people's champion but as a man too.

Being the son of a former superstar is no easy feat, and Rhodes talks about honoring his father’s legacy at Madison Square Garden and continues into a conversation about nepotism in sports with the recent news of Bronny James’ being drafted to the Lakers alongside his father Lebron James, Cody describes the effects of being a Nepo child but is clear that your last name may get you recognized and open doors, but hard work and respect are what earn your spot to stay there.

Now an Executive Vice President at AEW, Cody looks at wrestling not just from the entertainment side but studies the business side with strong focus on connections with fans and driving revenue. Rhodes talks about being the face and heel in sports, and how the good ones can be both as he is capitalizing on his beloved stardom status with a looming question, not if but when will he step in the ring with The Rock to settle the score once and for all.

New episodes drop on Tuesdays at 12 p.m. ET and Fridays at 3:30 p.m ET on YouTube, with audio available on all streaming platforms including Apple, Spotify and Amazon.

New York City, come meet us at Fanatics Fest NYC! We’ll be recording our podcast LIVE with some special guests, signing autographs, meeting fans, taking photos and more. We’re excited to be at FFNYC alongside some of the biggest names in sports such as Tom Brady, Derek Jeter, Kevin Durant, Sabrina Ionescu, and more. FFNYC is happening August 16 –18, 2004 at the Javits Center. Visit https://bit.ly/3R0f8hn to buy your tickets now!

”GAMBLING PROBLEM? Call 1-800-GAMBLER(CO/IL/KS/KY/MD/MI/NC/NJ/OH/PA/TN/VA/VT/WV), (800)-327-5050 or gamblinghelplinema.org (MA), Call (877)8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), or Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), (888) 789-7777 orccpg.org (CT), or 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), or 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), or www.mdgamblinghelp.org(MD), or morethanagame.nc.gov (NC), or1800gambler.net (WV)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

One of the biggest NFL off-season storylines is the contract negotiations coming from the reigning NFC Champions in San Francisco and if their star WR Brandon Aiyuk, former first round pick, will still be a 49er heading into 2024 season. Since the week after the Super Bowl, his contract has been a hot topic with constant media coverage, rumors, and social media buzz. Adding fuel to the fire, there are speculations that Aiyuk might reunite with his former ASU teammate and close friend Quarterback Jayden Daniels at the Washington Commanders… And the Pivot in partnership with Fanatics uncovers the truth and cuts through the noise. 

In today's episode, sitting with the source himself, Ryan, Channing and Fred have a conversation with Brandon Aiyuk around what's true, what's not and ask the looming question- will a new deal be done before training camp ? Or does Aiyuk have his sights set on a short list of NFL teams he feels he can be the X factor on. Brandon explains the why behind the viral face time post of him and his long-time friend Jayden Daniels and why he's taking these contract negotiations personal while sharing his true priorities and mindset as he discusses what he believes he's worth, the significance of the big dollar-signs and how he handles the pressures of these high-stakes discussions under the public eye.

With an unsettling sentiment and signs of discourse between the San Francisco organization and Aiyuk since the Super Bowl loss in Feb, Brandon is setting the record straight about his emotions around the loss against the Chiefs and sharing his true thoughts in his voice without any misconstrues. 

Aiyuk gives us his perspective on the state of the league, being the next domino to fall in the contract pool of wide receivers and sharing insights on quarterback Brock Purdy, his teammates and how much talent is on this 49er roster, full understanding the grass may not be greener elsewhere but he's not closing the door on reuniting with his friend and former teammate Daniels in Washington or dabbling with other teams, ofcourse with the Steelers being one Ryan hopes is on the list.  

Growing up in a 49ers fan home, Aiyuk has deep love for the team but also has openness to new opportunities. Tune in for an unfiltered conversation that delves into the heart of Brandon Aiyuk's current journey, his aspirations, and the roller coaster side of professional football negotiations.

New episodes drop on Tuesdays at 12 p.m. ET and Fridays at 3:30 p.m ET on YouTube, with audio available on all streaming platforms including Apple, Spotify and Amazon.

New York City, come meet us at Fanatics Fest NYC! We’ll be recording our podcast LIVE with some special guests, signing autographs, meeting fans, taking photos and more. We’re excited to be at FFNYC alongside some of the biggest names in sports such as Tom Brady, Derek Jeter, Kevin Durant, Sabrina Ionescu, and more. FFNYC is happening August 16 –18, 2004 at the Javits Center. Visit https://bit.ly/3R0f8hn to buy your tickets now!

”GAMBLING PROBLEM? Call 1-800-GAMBLER(CO/IL/KS/KY/MD/MI/NC/NJ/OH/PA/TN/VA/VT/WV), (800)-327-5050 or gamblinghelplinema.org (MA), Call (877)8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), or Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), (888) 789-7777 orccpg.org (CT), or 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), or 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), or www.mdgamblinghelp.org(MD), or morethanagame.nc.gov (NC), or1800gambler.net (WV)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"So many people want to be a part of the announcement and not a part of the investment."- Rich Paul, Founder of Klutch Sports

Less than 24 hours away from the 2024 NBA Draft and all the talk is around a potential late round draft prospect, And why? Well because of the name on the back of his jersey. 

The sports world is currently divided over discussions about nepotism in basketball, sparked by Bronny James' announcement that he will enter the NBA draft after just one year at USC. In the latest episode of The Pivot, Ryan, Channing, and Fred sit down with Rich Paul, founder of Klutch Sports Group and super agent not just for big NBA stars and Lebron but Bronny too, as the guys go in depth for a very telling conversation from the source himself. They dive into Rich’s long-standing relationship with LeBron James, yet their separate approaches to navigating Bronny’s entry into the NBA draft and his future career. Rich is very clear, although Bronny is considered his nephew, he is treating him as he would any of the other athletes he represents, sharing the best case scenario, discussing various approaches and details what he actually means by declining two-way contracts. Rich has made a name for himself as a leader in sports business and transcending athlete representation by doing it his own way, which has raised the bar in the industry. 

Way before Rich Paul and Lebron met, Rich was hustling and grinding his way through life, from selling jerseys out of his car to becoming a prominent CEO in sports representation. He provides insights into his journey to become one of the most influential businessmen in sports, outgrowing his title of agent through his contributions in sports and entertainment growth over the years. Rich gives perspective into his philosophy as a man, agent and friend, emphasizing his consistent yet authentic approach in managing high-profile clients like LeBron James, Anthony Davis, and Draymond Green as well as his female clients in WNBA led by the league's MVP A'ja Wilson.

Rich prides himself in building strong personal connections both within and outside the sports industry and talks about how he will not only stick by his athletes through their successes, but will also stand in the rain with them when things get tough as he demonstrated with Draymond Green recently. This mentality isn't a front, it's just who Rich Paul is, and is best described in his book, "Lucky Me" about changing the odds and going against the grain to reach success: "You don't have to finish where you start," which is why he has earned the trust of the best of the best in basketball and paved the way for it to be a business built on people skills and relationships and not by mandated college degrees.  

For continued viewing and listening of more Pivot content and unique conversations in sports and entertainment with A-list celebs, top athletes and leaders in business, Subscribe to catch new episodes of The Pivot released on YouTube every Tuesday at 12 p.m. ET and Fridays at 3:30 p.m. ET, with early release of audio available on major streaming platforms such as Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and Amazon Music.

New York City, come meet us at Fanatics Fest NYC! We’ll be recording our podcast LIVE with some special guests, signing autographs, meeting fans, taking photos and more. We’re excited to be at FFNYC alongside some of the biggest names in sports such as Tom Brady, Derek Jeter, Kevin Durant, Sabrina Ionescu, and more. FFNYC is happening August 16 –18, 2004 at the Javits Center. Visit https://bit.ly/3R0f8hn to buy your tickets now!

”GAMBLING PROBLEM? Call 1-800-GAMBLER(CO/IL/KS/KY/MD/MI/NC/NJ/OH/PA/TN/VA/VT/WV), (800)-327-5050 or gamblinghelplinema.org (MA), Call (877)8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), or Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), (888) 789-7777 orccpg.org (CT), or 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), or 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), or www.mdgamblinghelp.org(MD), or morethanagame.nc.gov (NC), or1800gambler.net (WV)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A Pivot Podcast special creating conversation around Domestic Violence generating awareness and discussing preventive measures with a survivor in our NFL family, the mother of star Wide Receiver DeAndre Hopkins.

Our Pivot purpose, is a commitment not just to have the fun conversations or interview A-list stars, but to prioritize using our platform to engage and challenge all of us, especially as men to look into ourselves, be vulnerable, be honest and be better as are dedicated to educating ourselves, fellow athletes, and our community on critical issues to affect meaningful change. In special collaboration with the Cleveland Browns, the NFL and Fanatics, we have an unguarded and tough conversation bringing awareness to domestic violence led by the inspiring story of survivor Sabrina Greenlee, mother of Tennessee Titans wide receiver DeAndre Hopkins, who bravely shares her journey that included losing her sight to unimaginable abuse. 

Ryan Clark often says what he does now in his 2nd act of life is far more important than what he did in his first. Although playing in the NFL is a gift fueled by passion and hard work, the platforms created from that career and how we use them is our true calling, this episode is an example of that.

In a touching and impactful conversation had live in front of the Cleveland Browns organization, Ryan, Channing, and Fred create a space for Sabrina to speak candidly about her experiences, barring her wounds and scars both physically and emotionally as she takes us all through her life changing journey. Painful and hard to hear at times, Sabrina’s stories and openness to cut through and speak directly to the root of reality and truly move a room full of men to understand abuse in all forms and the effects it has on victims but their loved ones too. 

Sabrina, representing mothers, sisters, daughters and all females in our lives, shares her message and preventative hopes with the team and challenges each of the men in the room to be better, wiser and leverage their NFL platform for positive change. Ryan explains how the NFL locker room is the most forgiving place in the world but also needs to become the most accountable place, checking every person to be an example. 

She also engages in a heartfelt Q&A with players, where they discuss the impact of domestic violence on their loved ones and seek guidance on supporting survivors. We hope this episode can provide awareness for a topic that holds a place in our hearts with importance and unfortunately a necessary one to explore as we continue to minimize these types of stories and create a world of zero tolerance for abuse. 

To learn more about Sabrina Greenlee and her non-profit organization S.M.O.O.O.T.H, visit https://www.sabrinagreenlee.coand https://www.smooothinc.org and purchase her book Grant Me Vision: A Journey of Family, Faith and Forgiveness to learn more about her touching and inspiring journey.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

A repeat appearance on The Pivot is rare, but so is today's guest- a rare talent, a rare personality and a rare gift to authentically always be himself no matter what or who has something to say, he stands by his words and owns his lifestyle. 

Once known for his Hall of Fame highlights on the field, former NFL star, Antonio Brown, is now equally known for his headlines away from the game in retirement. Whether it be his boisterous personality, his unusual relationships with various celebrities, his financial woes or his latest media platform CTESPN, AB is no stranger to controversy or being in the spotlight for his questionable comments and choices over the years.  

With recent stories of Brown filing bankruptcy after earning nearly $80M during his NFL career and increasing criticisms over his social media distribution of contentious words around athletes, sports and hot social topics.  In partnership with Fanatics, Ryan, Channing and Fred sit with Antonio for a conversation covering it all, from his storied football journey, to miscues to personal evolution to public perception to what is really going on in the life of the famed football star. 

Ryan starts the episode by addressing his former Pittsburgh teammate from a place of respect but one of genuine care and concern asking how Antonio Brown the human is holding up mentally, physically and emotionally. And in a place of authenticity and humility, AB opens up, admitting that he never realized how much trauma you go through in being great and acknowledges the pain and real traumas that he endured as a football player and in everyday life as a human being. 

Through therapy and reflection, Antonio shares how he has been able to put his thoughts and experiences into words, which led him to creating his viral X account CTESPN. "It's always when people don't understand- you're crazy." Antonio shares with the guys as Fred points to people being worried about the former wide receiver and Channing questions if the CTESPN platform does more harm than good because of how thoughts are communicated, often radical, racial and in raw expression. He says it's for entertainment but also for honestly and accountability, as athletes face public scrutiny and media sensationalizing all the time, but when he says something, it's often criticized with a different lens as AB gives the recent example of Sports Personality Pat McAfee calling Caitlin Clark a "white B word' and it being quickly forgiving yet he feels he is held to a tougher standard for a joke he made months back. Ryan inquires further into the purpose and future of the social media platform as the group discusses the inherent challenges in balancing public perception with personal growth. 

Turning to football, the guys talk about the tangible talents of Antonio as one of the greatest wide receivers of this era and point to his Hall of Fame eligibility coming up in 2027, the same year as his Steelers quarterback Ben Roethlisberger, in which he hopes the tandem can go into Canton together. Fred asks if his tactics off the field will taint his chance of getting a gold jacket as Antonio pushes back saying one has nothing to do with the other, "If you think AB is not a hall of famer, put on the tape."

AB gives his thoughts on Justin Jefferson's record breaking NFL contract as well as the top 5 guys playing the position in the league right now and what skill set is most important for success on the field. Antonio addresses recent media reports regarding his financial situation. explaining in his own words and expressing how he feels misjudged and misunderstood but is embracing this next chapter of his life story, with a primary focus of being a present father, and enjoying his children being bigger, better versions of himself, what legacy is all about. 

New episodes of The Pivot are released every Tuesday at 12 p.m. ET and Fridays at 3:30 p.m. ET on YouTube. Listeners can enjoy audio versions on major streaming platforms.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"When you see a man fall, don't laugh at him, learn from it."

We can learn and sometimes laugh our way through life as long as we do it with respect and humility.

Ryan, Channing and Fred sit down with media mogul Nick Cannon to talk about his journey through the music, film and TV industries as well as his life behind the scenes with 12 children and a hustle that continues to pay dividends for him.

From stand-up comedy sets making $7 an hour with a free dinner to music producer to actor to hosting, Nick Cannon is able to do it all. And on the latest episode of The Pivot, he opens up about his upbringing, his unique mindset, managing expectations and creating a lifestyle of fame and fortune but a life often crafted by headlines as the entertainer navigates his complex personal path with a booming professional journey.

Nick has worked for everything that he has today, and he reflects on where that sense of motivation came from, pointing to his unique childhood situation. Always on the move, he talks about early opportunities and the moments that sprung his career forward. He is most known for his juggling of many different professional hats, but he also gives insight on his family life, even swapping jokes about his $10 million testicle insurance policy. Keeping an open mind and having sone laughs with the guys, Nick speaks from the heart and with honesty about his choices to father several children.

With 12 children from 6 different mothers, his life off-screen is a testament to his dedication and love for family. Despite the complexities, Nick sheds light on the fulfillment he finds in fatherhood, sharing moments and special ways to make Father's Day unforgettable for each and every one of his kids. With one son passing from a brain tumor at 5 months old to another growing up today with autism, he opens up about supporting each child in the best way he can to give each of his children the best parts of life and put them all in a place to experience their time differently.

Sharing insight into his marriage with Mariah Carey and private intricacies of their relationship, Nick doesn't shy away from personal struggles he faced with his dream girl and is able to reflect, pinpointing the painful moment he realized he had to Pivot in order to regain himself.

From creating Wild N’ Out to his days on America's Got Talent to now hosting The Masked Singer, Nick has a long list of self-accomplishments on his resume, but amidst the accolades, he remains humble, touching on how he continues to learn daily, especially from comments he made that got him “canceled.” Nick credits Will Smith as being the one person who mentored him and explains the tremendous upside of that relationship while shedding the downside of mounds of pressure put on him as well. Before wrapping, Ryan asks Nick how he handles the sensitive situations around very public Hollywood friendships he had with R Kelly and P Diddy and without hesitation but poise and grace in his tone, Nick addresses the situations directly and how he has explained the recent revelations to his children.

New episodes drop on Tuesdays at 12 p.m. ET and Fridays at 3:30 p.m ET on YouTube, with audio available on all streaming platforms including Apple, Spotify and Amazon.

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

No greater event than one of sport and today we are talking a real live David vs Goliath title bout as we chat with the man who knows he's the underdog but believes he's built for this moment. Undefeated Boxer Frank Martin looks to become the new WBA Lightweight World Champion pulling off the upset win over Boxing's best and biggest star, Gervonta "Tank" Davis on June 15th at the MGM Grand Las Vegas.

In partnership with Fanatics, The Pivot Podcast shares an exclusive conversation as Ryan, Channing, and Fred sit down with Frank "The Ghost" Martin as he prepares to step in the ring with Tank Davis, 29-0 and 27 KOs. Both undefeated talents in their own right, Martin opens up about being an underdog, his anticipations for the showdown, and the pivotal moments that shaped his journey to the ring.

Despite boasting a perfect record of 18-0, Martin remains criminally underrated within his division, a fact he confronts head-on as he discusses his mindset approaching what is undeniably the pinnacle of his career. Delving into the origins of his nickname "The Ghost," Martin dissects the nuances of his fighting style and its potential and favorable impact when he faces Davis, Alluding to the last time the two fighters met in Vegas, a few years ago in a sparring match at The Mayweather Boxing Gym, Martin reveals what really transpired that day and how the man himself, Floyd Mayweather, pulled the two fighters apart after several grueling rounds. 

Martin shares with Ryan, Channing and Fred the advice Mayweather has given him over the years and the one key piece he has kept at the forefront of his training, work when your opponent is resting and become mentally strong not just physically. Addressing the false narratives from the press conference and the trash talk spewed from his opponent, Martin turns the words into motivation and confidently tells the guys, "people think they know who I am and what I'm capable of, but have no idea, but soon they will see who Frank Martin really is."

Calling the city of Detroit home, Martin's upbringing created his resilient mindset and unique athleticism, qualities that have raised his current status to become one of the sport's top talents and he explains how working with renowned boxing trainer, Derrick James, has edged even more, increasing his speed and athleticism to a level unlike anything Tank has experienced before.

Martin says this moment is more than just a fight, it's for all the people who felt lost, misguided and not good enough, to know the good guy does win sometimes and this night is about the underdog. 

Stay tuned for new episodes of The Pivot, premiering Tuesdays at 12 p.m. ET and Fridays at 3:30 p.m. ET on YouTube, with audio available on all major streaming platforms including Apple Music, Spotify, and Amazon Music.

New York City, come meet us at Fanatics Fest NYC! We’ll be recording our podcast LIVE with some special guests, signing autographs, meeting fans, taking photos and more. We’re excited to be at FFNYC alongside some of the biggest names in sports such as Tom Brady, Derek Jeter, Kevin Durant, Sabrina Ionescu, and more. FFNYC is happening August 16 –18, 2004 at the Javits Center. Tickets are on sale. Visit https://bit.ly/3yw2qAm to learn more and https://bit.ly/3R0f8hn to buy your tickets now!

”GAMBLING PROBLEM? Call 1-800-GAMBLER(CO/IL/KS/KY/MD/MI/NC/NJ/OH/PA/TN/VA/VT/WV), (800)-327-5050 or gamblinghelplinema.org (MA), Call (877)8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), or Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), (888) 789-7777 orccpg.org (CT), or 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), or 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), or www.mdgamblinghelp.org(MD), or morethanagame.nc.gov (NC), or1800gambler.net (WV)

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

"Where we are right now, there's a lot of speculation but the fight is on, it's happening, June 29th, Me vs McGregor...it's going to be his last fight." Michael Chandler on UFC 303 vs Connor McGregor 

In partnership with Fanatics, a must watch episode of The Pivot is out now.

The sports world is a buzz, asking, "Is the main event of UFC 303 between Michael Chandler and Conor McGregor still happening?" With a lot of noise and whispers around the status of the highly anticipated cage clash, Ryan, Channing and Fred sit down with Chandler, to get the answers we all want to know. Chandler, who has been waiting years for the opportunity to officially retire McGregor, opens up to the guys in a conversation covering the build-up to the fight, his confidence in defeating McGregor, as well as how becoming a father and his humble beginnings play a key factor in who he is today.

While the press conference in the lead-up to UFC 303 was abruptly cancelled, the guys ask about Chandler’s mindset with the looming uncertainty heading into the fight and the angst that comes with it. Chandler shares his take on McGregor's persona, larger platform, and talks about the journey and his confidence being high as he has earned this opportunity and why he will undoubtedly be victorious. This segues into a larger conversation about his mental struggles during his career, where Ryan asks him to touch on how he bounced back from consecutive losses in Bellator and stayed focus through recent backlash from his response to a question about his two adopted children.

Chandler is known for his heart, and mentions his motivation from his wife, while also reflecting on what it is like raising two African-American boys. He opens up about his loyalty to his family and how he turns the pressure he feels inside the cage into the aggressive style of fighting that's made him a household name and fan favorite.

Acknowledging the losses and difficult times, Chandler emphasizes the significance of turning negative experiences into positive outcomes, expressing extreme confidence that June 29th will be a well-deserved victory and the last time the world sees McGregor in the octagon. 

The Pivot Podcast releases new episodes every Tuesday at 12 p.m. ET and Friday at 3:30 p.m. ET on YouTube, with audio versions available on all streaming platforms. Please hit the subscribe button on your YouTube channel to be up to date on current episodes and special announcements. 

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

As an athlete, part of the climb is reaching the top and often, fame and wealth steal the spotlight, but what's not really discussed, is how a simple game can shape one's identity and provide purpose.

In a recent conversation on The Pivot, former MLB All-Star Matt Kemp joins Ryan, Channing, and Fred to unravel the multifaceted journey of life as a professional baseball player. Kemp shares a blend of funny anecdotes and honest reflections, providing a glimpse into the complexities of his career from a small town guy to the big lights of Los Angeles, and the extra pressures that came with playing in the limelight of a big city.

From the challenges of adapting to life in various cities to the weight of fame under the spotlight of Los Angeles, Kemp's experiences paint a picture of the highs and lows that come with being a professional athlete. As Matt navigated the transition into retirement, He compares that time in his life to mourning a family death, juggling all the emotions of losing something you love while facing the uncertainties that lie ahead.

In 2011 Matt Kemp finished second in National League MVP voting to Ryan Braun, and he talks about his reaction to later finding out Braun tested positive for PEDs that season. He won the Hank Aaron Award that year, though, and Kemp reflects on being biracial in baseball as well as the African-American mentors he had in the sport. Still tough to rationalize missing out on that feat, Matt talks about life now, and leaving the baseball to pursue mentorships and other business endeavors.

Throughout the episode, Kemp provides valuable insights into broader themes such as race, identity, and the ever-evolving landscape of rookie vs veterans in the locker room. Playing for the LA Dodgers came with high expectations between living in Hollywood, access to celebrities combined with a fast pace lifestyle while putting up a league high MLB numbers, Matt shares how the pressures sometime were too much to handle and only increased as his personal life took center stage to media outlets and blogs. The guys chat about Matt's adjustment to fame- from the media’s accountability to the dating scene, which Channing can't help but ask about his relationship with superstar Rihanna.

From his mom and dad helping him choose baseball in Oklahoma to Torii Hunter and Don Newcombe guiding him once he reached the majors, Kemp gives praise to the many people who helped him reach the success he had. Yet today he is no longer an active baseball player, and he talks about the unknown struggles of retirement and entering a new chapter as a dad.

New episodes drop on Tuesdays at 12 p.m. ET and Fridays at 3:30 p.m ET on YouTube, with audio available on all streaming platforms

New York City, come meet us at Fanatics Fest NYC! We’ll be recording our podcast LIVE with some special guests, signing autographs, meeting fans, taking photos and more. We’re excited to be at FFNYC alongside some of the biggest names in sports such as Tom Brady, Derek Jeter, Kevin Durant, Sabrina Ionescu, and more. FFNYC is happening August 16 –18, 2004 at the Javits Center. Tickets are on sale. Visit https://bit.ly/3yw2qAm to learn more and https://bit.ly/3R0f8hn to buy your tickets now!”

GAMBLING PROBLEM? Call 1-800-GAMBLER(CO/IL/KS/KY/MD/MI/NC/NJ/OH/PA/TN/VA/VT/WV), (800)-327-5050 or gamblinghelplinema.org (MA), Call (877)8-HOPENY or text HOPENY (467369) (NY), or Call 1-800-NEXT-STEP or text NEXTSTEP to 53342 (AZ), (888) 789-7777 orccpg.org (CT), or 1-800-BETS-OFF (IA), or 1-800-9-WITH-IT (IN), or www.mdgamblinghelp.org(MD), or morethanagame.nc.gov (NC), or1800gambler.net (WV).

Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices