On this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura sit down with Kalen Walker, Iowa Track and Field standout and viral sensation known for his record-shattering speed and relentless work ethic.

From small-town Iowa roots to breaking school records and sprinting a 4.15 in front of a packed Kinnick Stadium, Kalen shares his incredible journey—and the passion that drives him to push through every challenge.

In this episode, Kalen opens up about:

How he fell in love with track later than most—and why that fueled his success

The brutal workouts, mental toughness, and commitment that shaped his path

The story behind his 4.15-second 40-yard dash that took the internet by storm

His dreams of competing internationally and representing Iowa on the world stage

Building a YouTube channel to inspire future athletes and share his journey

How perseverance through injuries helped him break multiple Iowa records

Kalen’s story is packed with resilience, passion, and a drive to keep getting better. This is one episode you don’t want to miss.

This week on Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura sit down with Nelson Brands, a homegrown Hawkeye with deep wrestling roots and an incredible journey on the mat.From growing up in Iowa City to training under Tom and Terry Brands, Nelson shares his experiences navigating the sport, competing at the highest level, and the unique dynamic of having a legendary coach as a father.In this episode, Nelson opens up about:His late start in wrestling and what drew him to the sportThe intense training regimen and mental toughness required at IowaHis dad’s unconventional coaching methods (wait until you hear about the gravel buckets and lawnmower tricks)Balancing family and competition in a program built on legacyHis love for hiking 14ers and how it helps him reset outside the sportNelson also talks about recovering from injuries, cutting weight the right way, and his future in wrestling. This is one conversation you don’t want to miss.Like, subscribe, and turn on notifications for more in-depth Hawkeye sports stories.#TalkinHawks #NelsonBrands #IowaHawkeyes #Wrestling #HawkeyeNation #FaithAndSports #CollegeWrestling

On this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura sit down with Kennedy Blades, one of the most dominant athletes in Iowa and a rising star in wrestling! 
From growing up in Chicago to training at an elite boarding school and competing around the world, Kennedy shares her incredible journey—from first stepping on the mat as a kid to becoming an Olympian. She opens up about:
 Her intense training regimen and sacrifices growing up,
 competing in over 20 countries at a young age, winning World Titles and making history in women’s wrestling, her faith journey and how it has shaped her career, and her signature suplex move (and why she’s NOT going to stop using it!)

PLUS, Kennedy shares what it was like qualifying for the 2024 Paris Olympics, training for the biggest stage in sports, and what’s next for her career. This is one conversation you don’t want to miss!

 Hit LIKE, SUBSCRIBE, and turn on notifications to keep up with more Hawkeye sports stories!

#TalkinHawks #KennedyBlades #IowaHawkeyes #Olympics #WomensWrestling #HawkeyeNation #Wrestling #FaithAndSports

On this week's episode of Talkin' Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura sit down with Iowa Hawkeyes quarterback Jackson Stratton, and delve deep into his amazing story. From growing up on the sunny beaches of San Diego to stepping into the spotlight in Iowa City, Jackson shares his journey of how surfing waves turned into throwing touchdowns. We talk about everything—his first impressions of the Midwest, his love for the beach, and what it was like being thrown into a starting role this season. Plus, Jackson opens up about his time in the transfer portal, life as a student-athlete, and even a few surprises (spoiler: his car is not what you’d expect!). Oh, and don’t miss the behind-the-scenes scoop on bowl game prep and what it’s like to be part of Hawkeye Nation!👉 Hit that like button, subscribe to the channel, and ring the bell to keep up with all things Hawkeyes!#TalkinHawks#IowaHawkeyes#JacksonStratton#HawkeyeNation#CollegeFootball

🎙️ Talkin' Hawks with the VandeBergs - Special Guest Dalles Jacobus 🎸

In this episode of Talking Hawks, host the VandeBergs recap the recent Iowa Hawkeyes football game, highlighting the performance of quarterback Jackson Stratton and the team's overall success. The conversation transitions into a detailed analysis of Stratton's quick decision-making and effective plays. The discussion then shifts to the defensive highlights and the contributions of unsung heroes on the team. The episode features an engaging interview with Hayden Large, who shares insights about his background, family, and sports journey, including his experiences growing up in Michigan and playing various sports. In this engaging conversation, Hayden shares his journey through sports, resilience, and personal growth. He discusses his experiences with injuries, the challenges of the transfer portal, and how he found a new home at Iowa. Throughout the conversation, Large emphasizes the importance of faith and personal development, reflecting on how these elements have shaped his identity and athletic career. The dialogue explores the importance of perspective in life, the impact of personal experiences on faith, and the significance of family relationships. Additionally, the conversation delves into college football, analyzing team strategies, player performances, and the cultural aspects of the Iowa-Nebraska rivalry.

In this episode of Talkin' Hawks, hosts Matt and Laura VandeBerg dive into all things Iowa Hawkeyes! Coming off the recent bye week, they break down player health updates, concussion protocols, and the team's overall recovery.

Special guest Ethan Hurkett, a standout Hawkeyes player, joins the conversation to share his inspiring journey. From high school memories to his goals beyond football, Ethan opens up about the importance of mental preparation, family support, and faith during life's challenges.

Matt and Laura also discuss leadership within sports, the Iowa recruitment process, and the strategy behind game analysis. Whether you're a die-hard Hawkeyes fan or love stories of perseverance and teamwork, this episode is packed with insights you can’t miss!

🔥 Topics Covered:

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#IowaHawkeyes #TalkinHawks #CollegeFootball #EthanHurkett #PlayerInterview #HawkeyeNation #FootballLeadership #Teamwork

In this episode of Talkin' Hawks, Matt and Laura recap the unfortunate loss for the Hawkeyes against UCLA. They go over key injuries and moments as to why the team may not have been playing to their full potential this game. This episode also features an insightful interview with linebacker Nick Jackson, discussing his background, team dynamics, and experiences as a player. In this engaging conversation, Nick Jackson reflects on his upbringing, specifically his time playing for the Virginia Cavaliers. He also delves into his passion for basketball, and how it was his first love. Nick also touches on the competitive spirit in games, his work ethic, and how the Hawkeye atmosphere and family is unlike anything he's experienced. Finally, he shares the wild world and experiences of the transfer portal. This is an incredible episode you don’t want to miss!

In this episode of Talkin' Hawks, Matt and Laura recap the huge home game win for the Hawkeyes against Wisconsin, highlighting key moments, fan engagement with the new starting QB, and standout performances. The episode also features an insightful interview with defensive lineman Deontae Craig, discussing his background, team dynamics, and experiences as a player. In this engaging conversation, Deontae Craig reflects on his upbringing, specifically his time at Culver Academies, and family dynamics. He also delves into the world of Crocs, and why he collects them. Deontae also touches on the competitive spirit in games, his work ethic, and the balance between sports and hobbies/school. Finally, he shares the connections he has made with teammates. Matt and Laura then preview the upcoming game against UCLA. This is an incredible episode you don’t want to miss!

In this episode of Talkin' Hawks, Matt and Laura recap a thrilling homecoming game for the Hawkeyes against Northwestern, highlighting key moments, fan engagement, and standout performances. The conversation delves into the defensive and offensive strategies employed during the game, including a quarterback change and the impact of special teams. The episode also features an insightful interview with offensive lineman Tyler Elsbury, discussing his background, team dynamics, and experiences as a player. In this engaging conversation, Tyler reflects on his upbringing, family dynamics, and the nostalgic memories of his first car. He discusses the influence of wrestling on his football technique and shares insights into his early recruitment experiences in high school sports. Tyler also touches on the competitive spirit in games, his work ethic, and the balance between sports and jobs. Finally, he shares how faith has played a significant role in his life and sports journey, highlighting the connections he has made with teammates. Matt and Laura then preview the upcoming game against Wisconsin. This is an incredible episode you don’t want to miss!