Tinman Podcast

Chris Tinius

Former Coach. Music Fan. Lifelong Student of Leadership. I’m Chris Tinius, and I’m bringing together my two biggest passions—sports and music—to explore the mindsets of successful athletes, coaches, leaders, artists, and entrepreneurs. This show is about reconnecting with old friends, uncovering new stories, and helping you find the expertise to chase your own passions.

  1. Harvey Araton - Award-Winning Sports Journalist

    MAR 3

    Harvey Araton - Award-Winning Sports Journalist

    Harvey Araton spent decades working for daily newspapers in the New York City area—spending 25 years at The New York Times, where he served as a Sports of the Times columnist for 15 years. Basketball has long been his specialty, but his career spans nearly every major sporting stage.  In 2017, Araton received the Curt Gowdy Media Award from the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame, honoring excellence in basketball journalism. He was also named Sportswriter of the Year in 1998 and was a 1994 Pulitzer Prize nominee, among many other accolades.  Over the course of his career, he covered 10 Olympic Games, along with Wimbledon and the U.S. Open, multiple World Series, Super Bowls, and NCAA Final Fours. He is also the author, co‑author, or editor of ten books. His New York Times bestseller Driving Mr. Yogi explores the poignant relationship between Yogi Berra and Ron Guidry. When the Garden Was Eden, his acclaimed account of the New York Knicks’ championship teams of the early 1970s, was adapted into an ESPN 30 for 30 documentary, which Araton co‑produced.  Most recently, he published his middle‑grades novel The Goal of the Game, released last December.  In our conversation, we discuss Araton’s writing process, his favorite events to cover, and timely youth sports themes explored in his new book.    Harvey Araton's Book 'The Goal of the Game'  Harvey Araton's Official Website Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame    We appreciate you listening to the Tinman Podcast!  Be sure to follow us or subscribe wherever you find your favorite podcast. Spotify Apple Podcasts YouTube X Facebook Instagram - @TinmanPod Email - tinmanpod@gmail.com  Make a donation and Support the Show! DASHCLIP Check out our partners at DashClip by visiting their website, thedashclip.com.  Specializing in crafting exceptional wallets that go beyond mere accessories,  Dash Clip is not just a brand; it's a philosophy, a daily reminder to embrace life and make every moment count.

    39 min
  2. Denny Williams (Epic Experience) - From Athletics To Advocate: Denny's Cancer Journey

    2025-11-25

    Denny Williams (Epic Experience) - From Athletics To Advocate: Denny's Cancer Journey

    Denny 'Stretch' Williams shares his inspiring journey battling esophageal cancer. Its a story of resilience, survival, vulnerability, gratitude, and giving back. The former college athlete, husband, and father of two was obviously taken a back when he learned of his illness.  The fight against cancer involves both physical and mental challenges, and trusting the process is crucial.  Williams discusses the challenges he faced during his diagnosis, treatment, and recovery, emphasizing the importance of mental health and community support. A camp through Epic Experience transformed Williams' perspective on life, showing that connection through a common experience can significantly impact recovery and outlook.  He now works for the nonprofit organization that supports adult cancer survivors.   We explore how the lessons Williams learned from athletics helped him through his journey, and his appreciation for the fact that cancer can bring unexpected blessings and connections.  Epic Experience Website Support Epic Experience - https://www.coloradogives.org/story/givingseason25   We appreciate you listening to the Tinman Podcast! Be sure to follow us or subscribe wherever you find your favorite podcast. Spotify Apple Podcasts YouTube X Facebook Instagram - @TinmanPod Email - tinmanpod@gmail.com DASHCLIP Check out our partners at DashClip by visiting their website, thedashclip.com. Specializing in crafting exceptional wallets that go beyond mere accessories, Dash Clip is not just a brand; it's a philosophy, a daily reminder to embrace life and make every moment count.

    37 min
  3. Matt Thune - Head Women's Basketball Coach, University of Alaska Anchorage

    2025-11-07

    Matt Thune - Head Women's Basketball Coach, University of Alaska Anchorage

    Matt Thune is set to begin his first season at the helm of the women's basketball program at the University of Alaska Anchorage.  We discuss his journey in coaching, his experiences in various programs,  coaching philosophy, recruitment strategies, and more. Growing up in Indiana, basketball was a significant part of Thune's life.  Knowing he wanted to coach from an early age, he took a chance heading to the University of Louisville for graduate school.  Then Jeff Walz took a chance on him during a highly successful era for the program, including a run to national championship game.  Thune compares working for Walz to getting a doctorate in basketball. He believes in recruiting players that fit his coaching style, and emphasizes the importance of building confidence in players. Thune's coaching philosophy focuses on a fast-paced, aggressive style of play mixed with good old fashion work ethic learned from his dad.  He's ready to showcase that brand of basketball in his first season with the Seawolves.   We appreciate you listening to the Tinman Podcast! Be sure to follow us or subscribe wherever you find your favorite podcast. Spotify Apple Podcasts YouTube X Facebook Instagram - @TinmanPod Email - tinmanpod@gmail.com DASHCLIP Check out our partners at DashClip by visiting their website, thedashclip.com. Specializing in crafting exceptional wallets that go beyond mere accessories, Dash Clip is not just a brand; it's a philosophy, a daily reminder to embrace life and make every moment count.

    28 min
  4. Mary Taylor Cowles - Celebrating a Hall of Fame Career in Women's Basketball

    2025-10-28

    Mary Taylor Cowles - Celebrating a Hall of Fame Career in Women's Basketball

    Mary Taylor Cowles is set to be inducted into the Athletics Hall of Fame at Western Kentucky University.  Her overall impact on Lady Topper basketball is unmatched. She was part of the program for a record 21 seasons, four as a player, seven as an assistant coach, and ten as head coach.  In fact, Cowles played a role in 447 Lady Topper victories and advanced to the post-season 18 times.  She’s part of the 1,000 point club, and was both a Conference Tournament Most Outstanding Player and Coach of the Year.  Cowles shares her journey from her early life in Marshall County, where she developed a passion for basketball, to her successful college career at WKU. She reflects on her memorable moments as a player, her transition into coaching, and the influential figures who shaped her coaching philosophy. Mary also discusses her experiences coaching at Ensworth and Davidson Academy, her diagnosis with MS, and how she continues to inspire young athletes despite the challenges she faces. The conversation highlights the importance of resilience, mentorship, and the love of the game. WKU Sports - Hall of Fame Article Tennessean Article   We appreciate you listening to the Tinman Podcast! Be sure to follow us or subscribe wherever you find your favorite podcast. Spotify Apple Podcasts YouTube X Facebook Instagram - @TinmanPod Email - tinmanpod@gmail.com DASHCLIP Check out our partners at DashClip by visiting their website, thedashclip.com. Specializing in crafting exceptional wallets that go beyond mere accessories, Dash Clip is not just a brand; it's a philosophy, a daily reminder to embrace life and make every moment count.

    26 min

About

Former Coach. Music Fan. Lifelong Student of Leadership. I’m Chris Tinius, and I’m bringing together my two biggest passions—sports and music—to explore the mindsets of successful athletes, coaches, leaders, artists, and entrepreneurs. This show is about reconnecting with old friends, uncovering new stories, and helping you find the expertise to chase your own passions.