The Nate Lull Podcast

The Nate Lull Podcast presents: The Story of Lady Upton. Nate and co-host Rich Turnbull share the remarkable story of Lady Upton, a nationally known harness racing horse from the small community of Mount Upton, New York. Born in 1864, she became one of the most successful “athletes” to ever come out of Chenango County, dominating regional racetracks in the 1870s and 1880s. Despite her success, Lady Upton still worked as a farm horse for the Chamberlain family, who played a significant role in her life and the community around her. She traveled by railroad to races across the Northeast and Canada, and her grave monument is still cared for today. Many may not know this story, so this project aims to bring her life back to the forefront in audio form. It’s the result of nine months of research and collaboration to honor her incredible legacy. A heartfelt thank you goes out to everyone who contributed their time, knowledge, and support to make it possible. Editing and mixing by Robert Child.

Nate catches up with Mallory Frazier, a 2020 graduate of Unatego and a multi-sport athlete who competed in basketball and softball for the Spartans. Mallory reflects on her college experience and how she discovered her passion for working in sports, with a focus on game day operations. She talks about her recent internship with the Oneonta Outlaws and how she has embraced the grind and hard work it takes to build a career in the sports industry. 

Nate sits down with 1997 Charlotte Valley alumna, Rena Goble, who is among the most accomplished athletes in Wildcats history. A standout on the basketball court, she finished with 2,121 points, which at the time was the most in Section IV history. Rena went on to play at the Division-II level for Southern Connecticut State University before building a life and career in Orlando, Florida. In this episode, she reflects on her playing career and the journey that’s shaped her life beyond the game.  

This special episode of The Nate Lull Podcast revisits Nate’s 2021 conversation with legendary coach, Nick Lambros (1937–2025), who passed away on September 30th. Coach Lambros made a lasting impact on generations of athletes and coaches across upstate New York through his decades of work at Hartwick College and beyond. His passion for the game, dedication to his players and love for the community shine through in this interview. We’re honored to share this conversation once again in memory of a true mentor, leader and friend to so many. 

Nate heads to Western New York for a special edition interview at St. Bonaventure University. He sits down with Jim Crowley, head coach of the Bonnies Women’s Basketball program. A Windsor native with deep roots in Section IV, Crowley shares memories of recruiting standout players from small schools near his hometown, including Laycee Drake, Courtney Mattingly, Mariah Ruff, Miranda Drummond and more. He also opens up about his coaching journey and the path that ultimately led him back to WNY, reconnecting with the region that shaped his career. 

Nate is joined by Unatego alum and local marathon canoe paddler, Austin Henchey, for a special recap of the 2025 AuSable River Canoe Marathon in Michigan. Also, be sure to check out the ARCM preview episode featuring his race partner, Jake Crotser. This was Austin’s first time at the AuSable, and he takes us through the journey from start to finish. Hear about his training, what it was like to paddle through the night, and how the duo handled the many obstacles they encountered along the way. 

Nate presents another local wrestling feature with Gorilla Grapplers Coach, Nate Leonard, and Deposit-Hancock standout, Landyn Shaffer. It has been a remarkable summer on the mat for Landyn, highlighted by a second place finish at the Fargo National Tournament in North Dakota. Wrestlers must qualify to compete at Fargo, which attracts top talent from across the country. Landyn and Coach Leonard share their perspectives on what it was like to make waves in the wrestling world, and why it was even more special coming in as an underdog. 

Nate connects with a true coaching legend, former Hartwick Men’s Soccer Coach, Jim Lennox. Jim spent 27 years at Hartwick, closing his career with 318 wins and leading his squad to the 1977 NCAA Division-I title. His teams made 13 NCAA Tournament appearances, including five trips to the Final Four. Jim also played a key role with the U.S. Soccer program and, in 2013, received the Walt Chyzowych Award for Lifetime Achievement. He coached back-to-back Hermann Trophy winners, Glenn Myernick in 1976 and Billy Gazonas in 1977. Don’t miss this rare conversation with one of the most accomplished coaches the game has ever seen, who happens to be living quietly in our area. 

Nate celebrates a major milestone with Episode 300 of the podcast. He welcomes the only two coaches in the 52-year history of the Oneonta Girls Soccer program: Helen Sandford and Jerry Mackey. Helen started the program in 1973 and led it for 30 years, while Jerry has continued to build on her legacy, guiding the Jackets to sustained success, including a state title in 2013. Helen looks back on the Title IX era, her approach to coaching, and why the success of her players has always meant more than the spotlight. It’s a rare chance to hear from one of the area’s true coaching pioneers. 

Nate sits down with Oneonta native, Jake Crotser, ahead of the 2025 AuSable River Canoe Marathon in Michigan. Now living in South Carolina, Jake makes frequent trips north to New York and Michigan to train and race. This year, he’ll be paddling with Austin Henchey of Otego, who is making his ARCM debut. Jake shares how he and Austin are preparing for the race and why he’s come to love competing in it every July.