He’s back. Not just on this show — but back in the sport, back on the world stage, and back to blow your mind with what’s possible when talent meets resilience.

Returning to the show is none other than Cordell Tinch — the hurdler whose journey reads like a Hollywood script. A former cell phone salesman turned world-class athlete. The guy who stepped away from the sport, then came back to dominate Division II track with three national titles in one weekend — and now he’s out here running 12.87 in the 110 hurdles, tied for the fourth-fastest time ever."

From selling phones in Green Bay to beating world champions on the Diamond League circuit — Cordell's story is a masterclass in self-belief, raw talent, and grinding when no one's watching.

In June 2023, Tinch clocked a world-leading 12.96 seconds in the 110m hurdles at the Arkansas Grand Prix. He furtherimproved to 12.87 seconds at the Shanghai-Keqiao Diamond League in May 2025, tying him for the fourth-fastest time ever in the event.

At the 2023 NCAA Division II Outdoor Championships, Tinch made history by winning the 110m hurdles, long jump, and high jump—becoming the first athlete in Division II history to secure three individual titles at a single championship.

In today's conversation, Cordell takes me through his past two years as a pro, being friends with Tyrese Haliburton, what his story means to him, why he thinks he can beat Grant Holloway at the highest level, his ambitions for the season, and wisdom to anyone willing to hear it. 

Tap into the Cordell Tinch Special.

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