"The name on my back was always my moral compass." Jerome Bettis

Here comes the Bus! Yes Pivot Family, we have an epic episode as Ryan, Channing, and Fred sit with NFL legend and Hall of Famer Jerome Bettis, known in the football world as “The Bus.” Bettis shares stories from his humble beginnings to strong family bonds to renowned football career to his life journey making it from the streets of Detroit to the fame walls of Canton and inspiring moments along the way.

Very few organizations have the identity the Pittsburgh Steelers have and Jerome Bettis is very clear on how that football organization shaped not just his play on the field but his way of life in how he approached every aspect of life. He recounts how Pittsburgh’s blue-collar mentality resonated with him, how the locker room shared in a special camaraderie with players embracing the culture that created the team's collective drive for greatness.

Starting the conversation off with a little fun reflecting on the old rivalry between Bettis and

Freddy T back in the days where Fred would have some of his best games vs the Pittsburgh Steelers which transitions the guys into talking the current state of the NFL, specifically the diminishing value of running backs and how today’s offenses have shifted away from the power running game Backs like them thrived in. Bettis calls out how Philadelphia being in the Super Bowl is no surprise since the team acquired Saquon who in Bettis' mind, is the ideal Franchise running back along with Derrick Henry, who both proved a strong ground game is a must for a team's longevity.

Speaking of Super Bowl, Bettis recounts the pivotal moment that shaped his decision to delay retirement: a conversation with his late teammate Clark Haggans about playing the big game in Bettis' hometown of Detroit and how he couldn't miss that run. His decision led to a full circle moment capping his career with a storybook ending winning a Super Bowl title with his Pittsburgh Steelers.

The discussion dives into Bettis’ early life in inner-city Detroit, where football wasn’t initially on his radar. He candidly shares how his high school coach helped steer him away from the streets, convincing him that he had the talent to play in the NFL. Bettis credits this intervention as his pivotal moment, leading him to Notre Dame, where legendary coach Lou Holtz recruited him and paved the way for a new opportunity. He opens up on moments of humility, including a funny story about winning Rookie of the Year but still being required to take out the trash at his parents’ house as well as insights into his father’s advice to always protect the family name and the pride he felt seeing fans wear his jersey...a constant reminder to uphold a standard of excellence.

A journey filled with so many highs and powerful moments, Bettis never shys away from the lessons learned along the way, although he jokes he didn't think his own teammate Ryan would bring up the hardest one to talk about. Emotion masked with laughter, Bettis reflects on how his career could have ended so much differently after fumbling the opportunity of his life-long dream in the AFC Championship game vs the Indianapolis Colts. He takes Ryan, Channing and Fred through the rollercoaster of emotions in that few second span and how humility turned to hope and how his life was forever changed for the better and his legacy cemented in history books.

With humor, wisdom, and candid storytelling, this episode highlights the many sides of Jerome Bettis—from the relentless competitor to the devoted family man. You don't need to be a Steelers fan to appreciate this powerful story filled with inspiration, lessons, prayer, perseverance, humility, and the pursuit of greatness.

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“What do you want your legacy to be as a coach? Do you want to be Vince Lombardi or Bear Bryant? I said Bear Bryant… So, what are you doing going to Miami than?”

The conversation we've all been waiting for where Channing's infamous stories get checked, and we have some laughs while we learn the path of one of the most respected and successful figures in sports. Ahead of College Football's National Championship, we get to sit with the man who has the most wins with 7 titles and decades of storied seasons.

Newly selected Hall of Fame Coach and the true GOAT of college football, Nick Saban, is sitting with Ryan, Channing and Fred for a rare and personal look into the journey that shaped his life, the values that drive his success, and the lessons learned from decades of coaching at the highest level.

The conversation begins with Saban reflecting on his humble beginnings and how he stumbled into coaching, despite initially wanting nothing to do with it. He recalls working at his father’s service station and the life-changing moment he realized coaching was a way to combine his love for competition with a deeper purpose: shaping young men’s futures. With humor and humility, Coach shares how he never set out to become the “GOAT” but focused on the process—a philosophy that has become synonymous with his name.

Saban notes pivotal moments in his career, including his brief and challenging stint with the Miami Dolphins. He opens up about the decision not to sign Drew Brees due to a failed physical, a move that still lingers as one of his biggest “what-ifs.” Despite this, he explains why returning to college football was the right decision, allowing him to develop players both on and off the field in ways the NFL couldn’t.

Both having played for Saban, Ryan and Channing speak of Saban’s legendary leadership style, exploring how he motivates players and manages diverse personalities. He shares how he learned to tailor his coaching approach to each individual and how to get the best out of his guys that went way beyond talent and skill.

It's a known thing that when you see Coach Saban, his wife isn't too far away. Always by his side, Miss Terry has been Coach's partner in life, football and all his endeavors for more than 50 years as the two met as young kids and created this life they could never imagine which has been sustained through love, success and true dedication.

The conversation goes from life lessons to lighter locker room talk as the guys bring up Channing's rookie stunt during Saban's tenure in Miami to get his reaction and how that really all went down, Saban responds in the best "Nick Saban" way possible as Ryan, Fred and Channing break out into laughter.

From joking around and reminiscing, the episode reveals never-told-before stories, the real reason why Saban said farewell to coaching as the guys don't shy away from discussing the challenges facing modern college football. Saban gets into the current state of NIL while sharing his concerns for growth, character building and how the futures of young men are being altered.

In a reflective moment, Saban looks back on his life and all the things he feels defined him as he recalls certain times he had to push his teams harder, especially when complacency crept in after winning which led to creating his famous, “nothing speech,” where he reminds players that entitlement leads to nothing and what underscores commitment to hard work and accountability.

Packed with humor, wisdom, and powerful lessons, this episode offers an unparalleled look into the mind of one of sports' greatest leaders. Whether you’re a fan of the game or simply looking for inspiration, Nick Saban’s journey will leave you motivated to trust the process and redefine success on your own terms. Tap in on YouTube and hit the subscribe button for more conversations like this.

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“The thing standing in between them and immortality is the dude that plays in Kansas City.” Ryan Clark talking Baltiore's Lamar Jackson vs Buffalo's Josh Allen 

It's Friday and we have a show for you. Football is in its prime as we head into the NFL's Divisional Round games this weekend and We preview College Football's National Championship between Ohio State vs Notre Dame....a lot to tackle in this episode!

But it's more than just the games that Ryan, Channing, Fred get into as the conversation ranges from NFL coaching rumors to the teams left standing to the MVP race to who wins and who loses to Deion Sanders' future to the devastation of the LA fires.

The conversation kicks off with a lively debate about whether Deion Sanders would be a fit for the Dallas Cowboys Head Coach, exploring the unique challenges he would face in the NFL, working for Jerry Jones and the anticipated backlash of leaving Colorado. The guys discuss the evolution of college sports, touching on NIL deals and the constant movement of players and coaches. Channing shares his thoughts on how college athletics has become a business, and Fred reflects on the importance of adaptability in a rapidly changing landscape.

Shifting gears, after being around the Rams on Monday Night, Ryan shares his thoughts on the aftermath from the fires, the emotional toll of it all and seeing so many people, including our own friends like JJ Reddick, be inconsolable after losing everything. Trying to find the right words, the guys talk about the positive sides of humanity in a crisis, communities coming together and they reflect on what truly matters in life, sharing personal anecdotes about the irreplaceable items they’d try to save if they only had a few minutes to evacuate. Ryan highlights the resilience of the people impacted by tragedy, the firefighters who give endless effort sacrificing to help strangers and kindness expressed in all forms. Fred and Channing discuss how people can even wrap their head around rebuilding and what comes next.

Although many of the Rams' organization were affected, the team is still finding ways to focus on football and finishing the season strong. The guys say why the Rams may have an edge vs Philadelphia, they talk about the possible upset in Detroit, exchange in-depth analysis of match ups and break down the MVP race between Lamar Jackson and Josh Allen. Ryan hates that the chatter surrounding who will win the title has become clouded by race which shouldn't even be a factor as both men are two of the most talented quarterbacks to ever play the game.

All three guys agree that both MVP candidates have had an unbelievable season but they share why one quarterback stands out to earn the title this year and why it shouldn't even be close. Channing and Fred explore the legacy-defining moments for both Lamar and Josh and the challenges they face in surpassing Patrick Mahomes to reach ultimate greatness. The guys make their picks and preview what they are most looking forward to watching this weekend.

Ryan on the other hand, is just looking past the NFL games straight to Monday as the Collegiate Championship is more than just a game, it's the potential to be one of the best days for his family, especially his son Jordan who plays for Notre Dame. He shares heartfelt stories about Jordan's football journey, the obstacles he overcame, and the motivational words that the two of them have shared. But beyond the field, Ryan is most proud of the person his son has become both as an athlete and human.

Wrapping up the conversation, Ryan, Channing and Fred each share some words of advice and open up about their own lives, offering a glimpse into their thoughts and hearts as they take one day at a time.

Tap in and hit the subscribe button on YouTube and comment what you love about this episode. We appreciate you making the time to spend with us and promise to continue to bring you entertaining but impactful conversations.

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“I have to learn things the hard way. In order to learn the message, I have to destroy everything. Everything I learned, I learned the hard way by f*%king up my own life.” Mel Robbins

Do we have a show for you!! Ryan, Channing and Fred are honored and grateful to sit with Best selling author, #1 on NY Times, Amazon, Audible, a top podcast host, amazing mother, wife and our friend- Mel Robbins! This is one of the most authentic, transformative and kick-ass conversations we’ve had. We laugh, we learn, tears are shed (guess who?) and we go far beyond the surface of what we think to revealing what we actually feel.

Pivot Family- Please take our word, this episode is one you need to tap into. The conversation we have is humbling, emotional, difficult at times but invigorating and impacted us more than we imagined. Truly, there is something in this show for everyone that will speak to you and maybe even ignite a change.

We all know the things in our life we would like to alter, improve or we can recognize as areas we fall short, but how do we step out of our comfort zone, regain control and actually take the step toward change?

Mel’s journey from rock bottom to global influence is a story of resilience, self-discovery, and hard-earned wisdom. Opening up about the lowest points in her life: losing her job at 41 to being $800,000 in debt to feeling like a failure as a parent on verge of divorce, Mel reflects on the shame and frustration of hiding her struggles from family and friends while finding herself trapped in a hole not knowing how to climb out. Opening up to the guys, she shares how this rock-bottom moment became the foundation for her transformation, helping her discover the tools and mindset shifts she now teaches to millions.

Throughout the conversation, Mel details the power of her 5 Second Rule—a simple practice that helped her overcome hesitation and take action in critical moments. She also explains how The High 5 Habit can rewire self-doubt into self-love. Together with the hosts, Mel discusses tough topics like parenting during financial struggles, rebuilding relationships after misdirected anger, and the importance of owning your ambitions rather than placing them on others.

This episode is packed with raw truths, practical advice, and emotional breakthroughs. Mel shares how facing pain, letting go of control, and embracing the hard decisions now can lead to a happier and more fulfilling future. Whether you’re looking for strategies to pivot in your own life or seeking inspiration to keep going, this conversation will remind you that change is possible, no matter how far you’ve fallen.

As we always say, it's never too late to Pivot....You can tell yourself, even the people close to you can say all the things you need to work on but listening to this conversation will really help you lock in and understand the secret to change and importance of embracing the bonds you have with loved ones, because in the end, who’s going to be there and how do you want to be remembered?

Let us know what you think when you watch and listen. Don't forget to hit the Subscribe button on YouTube and follow us on all audio platforms. Pick up a copy of Mel's latest book "Let Them" or download it on Audible to get more insight surrounding the stories and topics we discussed.

“It is a fundamental part of human nature, that pain is part of what’s necessary to push yourself to change.” Mel Robbins

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"Mine wasn't one of alcohol or drugs, it was an addiction of needing to be validated by others." Peter Rosenberg

In this episode, Ryan, Channing, and Fred sit down with radio legend and WWE

personality Peter Rosenberg, a man who has spent his life connecting with audiences through

music, sports, and culture.

New York’s long-time Hot 97 radio personality, Rosenberg, grew up a Jewish kid who

immersed himself into the hip-hop culture, forging an unlikely path into music, sports and living his truth even in a world where he didn't fit the norm. Defying the cultural optics, Rosenberg paved a way into media by using his voice to make an impact and resonate with listeners around the world as his words came to life through his passion and respect for all things music and sports.

Growing up in the suburbs of Maryland, Rosenberg has been a life long Washington football fan, even through all the team's low points as he shares his thoughts on this new regime led by Head Coach Dan Quinn with Quarterback Jayden Daniels at the helm. With the NFL wildcard weekend upon us, Ryan, Channing and Fred talk football and get Rosenberg's inside picks on who will make it through and his sure choice for Rookie of the Year.

From breaking new artists on Hot 97 to becoming a staple in WWE commentary, Rosenberg shares his journey of staying authentic in an industry where the spotlight can be unforgiving. Battling stereotypes and criticisms, Rosenberg never gave up on his dream to be a voice for everyone and found that place through sharing his vulnerability and learning from shortcomings, not allowing them to define him.

Rosenberg discusses his failed marriage, the feeling of almost losing everything and opens up what his turning point was that allowed him to let go of the past, ignore public perception and move forward again with faith and finding joy in unlikely situations. On the verge of becoming a first-time father, Rosenberg shares his how he's looking forward to parenting with the love of his life and reveals his fears of not having a child, but the delivery room. In a funny moment, Channing offers words of wisdom in ways only Channing can do that has all of the guys laughing.

Continuing to make noise in the media space, His admiration of Beyonce backed with his facts and love of history led him to start a podcast dedicated to her unique stature in entertainment. Being someone who is not only respected in the music field but trusted, He gives his inside perspective about Kendrick Lamar's upcoming Super Bowl Half Time show. Discussing all the key moments in Rosenberg’s career and personal life, this conversation explores what it truly means to Pivot and find promise in pain and discover hope in despair. Tap in and hit the subscribe button on YouTube to be the first to know special guests and exclusive shows.

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"For me personally, I think I needed that. It built this dog within me...For me growing up, there was no plan B...There was no 'what if.'" Frances Tiafoe Proffeesional Tennis Player

Captivating the world with his undeniable talent, charismatic ways and his unique energy on and off the court, Frances Tiafoe shares his journey from humble beginnings to becoming one of the most recognizable faces in tennis today.

On this episode of The Pivot Podcast, Ryan, Fred, and Channing chop it up with Tiafoe about how it all started and how life has totally changed for him since winning more which has led to his ever-growing fame. The guys talk all things tennis with Frances, explaining how training works, the mindset necessary and how the current landscape is the perfect opportunity for Frances to rise in sports.

Elevating the attention of tennis over the past couple years, Frances' matches have become a magnet of entertainment and unwavering outpour of support, from receiving daily texts of A-list athletes to getting private invites to hang with Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce to defeating the sport's megastars on global stage has shaped Tiafoe's path in ways he never thought possible.

Despite the star-studded encounters, Frances keeps it real, always remembering his roots and the community that's had his back from the start. He's focused on the bigger picture—winning key matches, staying true to himself and pouring into the people and things he loves.

With a chance to rewrite history books. Frances opens up about how Venus and Serena Williams have been huge influences on his game, not just as players but as role models. He shares how the pressure to succeed is heavy but carrying that weight has led him to have unimaginable highs such as defeating Rafeal Nadal and going toe to toe with the best players in the world. Never shying away from competition, Frances explains how losing his cool in the heat of the moment or seeming unfocused stems from the passion he has for tennis, not a lack of respect or arrogance toward the sport itself.

Looking back at one memorable match that stands out to us all, Frances reflects on how it felt like he was being made an example of and he felt he had no choice but to stand up for himself. He admits to the guys it wasn’t his best moment, but it was a learning experience and something he’s grown from.

While he tries to keep things light and avoid getting too wrapped up in the intensity, he admits it’s not always easy. The competitiveness in tennis can make it tough to have authentic relationships, but Frances is committed to staying true to himself and loyal to his day one support system.

Don't forget to follow us on all audio platforms and hit the subscribe button for more conversations like this! Hey Pivot Fam!!! Special offers for you to stay safe and secure as we kick off 2025!

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Three unbelievable years of The Pivot Podcast filled with strong storytelling, authentic exchanges, vulnerability, laughs, wild moments and in-depth conversations with the top guests in the world. The podcast has evolved into a movement in sports, music, entertainment and become the number one destination for A-list athletes, coaches, artists, Hollywood elite and business leaders to sit and have deep, unfiltered discussions that have transcended the podcast space. Ryan Clark, Fred Taylor and Channing Crowder have shaped an unique identity through this platform with their voices resonating with listeners and viewers around the world creating a community unlike any other. Thank You Pivot Family for rocking with us and we can't wait to continue working hard to bring you the most impactful content possible in the year to come.

Don't forget to hit the Subscibe button on Youtube and comment on the guests and stories you want to see us bring this year.

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"Stay in the moment, take ownership of your life and Identify what success looks like on your own terms."- Fred Taylor

Farewell to 2024 and ready for 2025? Ryan, Channing and Fred sit down for a reflective conversation about life, parenting, family, work, sports and discuss what's to come. 2024 year comes to a close and the guys are chatting about this time of year, the lessons learned, things we wish we could redo, the opportunities we hope for, the work we put in and the commitment we give to the things and people we love.

Do you ever take a minute and think back to a day and wish you could redo that day or have that moment back to relive? Well the guys do just that, as they each look back at a very impactful time they had this past year and share why it was so instrumental and meaningful. Sometimes it's the simplest of things that mean the most and often the ones we take for granted. A lesson for everyone is to understand time is beyond our control and that we can never be too busy or too disconnected to understand the defining points of our journey.

Ryan asks the guys to each share their top moment in sports and Channing has his immediately but is in disbelief he's choosing this moment, since he hated on it so much. Fred talks about the power of the Olympics this summer and how it united the world but also allowed us all to learn the journeys of so many young athletes. Ryan reflects on the Freeman family, winning the World Series and what it meant to the sports world but the inspiration it was for so many who were touched by Freddie Freeman sharing his story.

College Football is all the talk in sports right now with the new 12 team playoff format and heading into the bowl games with the final 8 teams standing. Ryan is personally loving this as his son Jordan, playing for Notre Dame, is matching up against College football's elite, the Georgia Bulldogs, as Ryan shares what the moment means for him as a father and also how much he is loving this new play in tournament. Fred and Channing are fans of this new format and as former SEC guys are excited to have competitive football in December, not just the one game in January.

The guys give their NFL round-up heading into the last week of the football season and give flowers to the players who have had insane seasons, break out years, playoff teams and reveal their picks of who will make it to the big game in February. Talking Ravens, Lions, Bengals, Vikings, Bills, Chiefs and more....and who do they have for the 2024 NFL MVP pick?

Closing out the show, instead of New Year's Resolutions, each guy shares something they want to work on in 2025 and a Pivotal message of help, hope and reassurance to anyone listening to this conversation. Fred is stepping back and trying to tune out the noise of others while living in the moment of his own wins, success and happiness. Channing's direct message is needed while Ryan's own experiences and struggles this past year is leading him to have a different approach in the new year. Powerful words and message from the guys hoping to resonate with all of our Pivot family for the days and months to come.

Here's to wishing you all a Happy, Healthy and Pivotal new year, may all your coming days be full of life and love. Follow us on your favorite audio platform and hit the subscribe button on YouTube to be the first to know about guests, new episodes and latest content.

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"I lost the fight, I didn't lose the journey." Themba Gorimbo UFC Fighter

As we wrap up 2024, we have a conversation with a young athlete who has defied the odds in every aspect of life, endured unimaginable challenges and is now sharing his extraordinary journey with Ryan, Channing and Fred on this episode of The Pivot Podcast.

Themba Gorimbo, is coming off a devastating loss in UFC 310 to Vincente Luque and shares how the past couple weeks he hasn't wanted to wake up and details the moments he remembers after his 52 second defeat in Las Vegas at T Mobile Arena, how his country turned on him and how the negative words and reception from fans across the world has crippled him mentally and emotionally. But despite the pain he feels, Themba is reminded of how lucky he is to be alive today after a life of danger, trauma and instability.

Born and raised in Zimbabwe, Themba's path to the UFC was anything but conventional. Hearing his story, the guys react as if it's a movie playing out as Themba details his childhood of dealing blood diamonds, being held hostage, running for his life, his family dying in front of him and escaping the unthinkable to make it to the land of opportunity. And then like any Hollywood film, a hero comes along to save him except this isn't Hollywood, this is Themba's true reality.

Themba tells Ryan, Channing and Fred how his will to survive led him to the octagon, seeking a career in Mixed Martial Arts as he shares how on the morning of his first real fight, he only had $7.49 to his name and posted about it to show how he was down and could come back up. His message caught more attention than he could hope for, when Dwayne The Rock Johnson saw it and stepped in to help change Themba's life forever...

The Rock may be Themba's real life saver but the true hero is Themba himself as his story is a powerful testament to resilience, determination, and the relentless pursuit of a dream. Coming off a heartbreaking loss brought on tears of embarrassment and hurt pride, but he is showing signs of strength again by opening up and trying to rise again. From humble beginnings to the pinnacle of professional fighting, his unwavering work ethic, sacrifices made along the way and the pivotal moments that shaped the man he is today, this conversation goes beyond the cage and into the heart of what it means to pivot when life throws the hardest punches.

Episode is streaming now and full video conversation on YouTube and don't forget to hit the subscribe button as we turn the page to a new year and new chapter ahead.

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 "Obedience is greater than sacrifice...When you stay obedient to whatever it is that you're doing in life, there is no sacrifice, because even when you lose stuff, you gain so much more." Titus O'Neil

As we head into the Holiday season, Ryan, Fred, and Channing sit down for a conversation covering a unique life journey that set out seemingly destined for one thing but through some major pivots, turned into something one could never imagine. WWE Superstar Titus O’Neil, known away from wrestling as Thaddeus Bullard, takes the guys through his unlikely path from young boy dealing with traumas and confusion to his dream of playing in the NFL to a popular career as professional wrestler to ending up in the WWE Hall of Fame but marks his biggest achievement has been being a dad.

Going back to college days, Titus played with Fred at the University of Florida, as the two reminisce stories and funny moments of their playing days as he goes on to open up to the darker moments of his journey as he was raised by a single mother and shares unimaginable adversity when discovering how he was conceived. Most would crumble and give up or hide in shame and fear, but not Titus, he used his traumas to create a stronger foundation and formulate clear perspective on his faith, being resilient and finding his true purpose.

In this deeply personal conversation, Titus opens up about discovering the difficult truth of how he came into the world and how that shaped his mission in life. While football provided a way out of tough circumstances, his aspirations always went beyond the game. He talks about his determination to create a legacy and become the kind of father he never had, inspiring not only his own kids but everyone around him. Titus's perspective on turning life’s challenges into opportunities is both moving and motivating. Appreciating the wonders of the world that WWE afforded him while traveling country to country and amassing a global fanbase, Titus admits wrestling was one of the hardest things he had to do in life but also one of the most fulfilling.

Reflecting on fatherhood, Titus shares powerful testaments to his faith and credits his kids with saving him, giving him a reason to push through pain and not give up. A few years ago, Titus was named Celebrity Dad of The Year, something he takes great pride in being recognized as. Going through a divorce is always difficult, but especially in the public eye, as Ryan asks how he handled the grief and words of advice he could share with others embarking on difficult journeys. Deeply rooted in prayer and faith, Titus is a believer in grace, second chances and being able to pivot when life turns upside down on you and make the most of any opportunity by living a life of significance.

A truly inspiring conversation of reflection, hope and healing. Tap in now for a conversation we all can take something away from. Happy Holiday to you and yours from our Pivot Family.

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