I'm back! After an eventful time off, which included some major life changes The Press returns with my Dad - known by many as Dr. Paul David Tripp. We talked about taking risks, and he explained his own experience with a major career leap. How did it all work for him, and how has ministry changed through the years? I learned he wanted to be a journalist and took part in activism during tumultuous years while he was in high school and college. And what's it like doing ministry in 2018? Social media can be good! Also - I heard his name chanted at a rehearsal dinner he wasn't at for a couple he doesn't eve know. Enjoy!

This two-part Apple Cup Edition begins with former Washington and Washington St. beat writers Christian Caple and Jacob Thorpe. They get us caught up on what they've been up to since leaving their newspaper jobs, before discussing the two programs ahead of their showdown Saturday. Then former Coug wideout Gabe Marks returns (47:18) to talk about his new website: westcoast-offense.com. He also shares his experiences in the rivalry game and what a win would mean for the program.

Good friend, fellow Towson alum and Getty Staff Photographer Patrick Smith shares his experiences from the sidelines of the biggest events in sports. We discuss the college days and how he got into photography. Patrick talks about his early career, and a traumatic event that landed him back home in Baltimore, where he got a life-changing career opportunity. He fills us in on what it's like to shoot the Olympics - and what sporting events he'd like to cover - and his favorite athletes and venues. We also talk about some cool side projects he's done and the type of photos that catch his eye.

Jordan Conn is a features writer for The Ringer. Long before he landed that gig he was a high school friend of mine, who inspired me to pursue a career in sports journalism. We discuss the types of stories he enjoys writing, and the process of writing them - from immersing himself in the topic or subject, to piecing it together on the page. I asked Jordan how he had such a clear vision for his career as a teenager, and he described the path he took since our high school days. He reflects on Grantland, and talks about The Ringer. And he briefly fills us in on a new project - his first book.

Two-time New York Times bestselling author Shea Serrano discusses his new book, Basketball (And Other Things). He talks about the anxiousness that comes with a new release, even with the previous success of The Rap Year Book. Shea explains the idea behind BAOT and how he came up with the questions that formed its 33 chapters, as well as his relationship with illustrator Arturo Torres. We talk about two basketball icons that spurred our love for basketball. He discusses how he got into writing, and the path that led him to Grantland, and now The Ringer. Shea also talks about his new TV project, and gives an album recommendation.

We catch up with Spokane native turned UFC fighter Michael Chiesa as he awaits his next opponent. The Shadle Park grad talks about the loaded 155 pound division - in a holding pattern thanks to Conor McGregor - and the need for more weight classes. Mike also explains the challenge of cutting weight, a potentially dangerous practice that is engrained in the sport, and the worst experience he had. He explains what he was like as a kid, and how he got into fighting. And why he - like his city - is such a great fit for mixed martial arts.

The week after Washington State's milestone win over USC, former WSU wideout River Cracraft joined 'The Press' and spoke about the importance of the victory and the team's perfect start to 2017. River got us updated on his health, after a torn ACL ended his college career. He gave the lowdown on his workout with the Patriots, and the experience of sharing the field with NFL stars during his rehab. We got into his football background and how he ended up at WSU. As well as some of the greatest grabs from one of the program's most sure handed receivers. We finished up by discussing the most famous Cracraft - @MamaCracraft.

Rem Bakamus gets us caught up on life after Gonzaga. Rem talks about the shock of showing up to practice on day one as a walk on, and how he matured through his career. He gives answers to unfair questions like, best player? Favorite season? Five Zags you'd take to any open gym? Rem explains what the offseason pickup games are like with former players. And gives his thoughts on this season's team. Oh, and Game of Thrones. We had to talk Game of Thrones.

As he gets ready to start his own podcast - 'West Coast Offense' - former Washington State wide receiver Gabe Marks catches us up on his career and life. He talks about his experience in camp with the New York Jets, and interests outside of playing football that have grabbed his attention. The Venice, California native describes the tough surroundings he grew up in, the experiences that shaped him, and his transition to life in Pullman, Washington. Gabe gave his thoughts on the protests taking place in the NFL and the racial issues that need to be fixed in America. We finish up by talking about the 4-0 WSU Cougars and their showdown with USC.

Spokane native turned NFL defensive back Will Davis takes us through his rapid rise in football. He talks about his time spent as a kid in Compton, including the scariest thing he witnessed. Will explains his late start in football, how his career almost ended in college, and his success at Utah State. After two ACL injuries he looks back on a tough couple years, and ahead to his new opportunity with the 49ers. Plus - he's a really good photographer.