Whistle Talk

Mike D the Referee
  • 4.8 (20)
  • FOOTBALL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Inside the Mind of a Football Official An inside look at the world of Football Officials. Interviews and content related to officiating the greatest team sport around. Mike D the Referee will bring you information ranging from Penalties, current game content, to how you can become an official yourself. From youth, high school, college to the NFL, Mike D will help give you the insight of what goes on Inside the Mind of a Football Official. And be sure to follow on TikTok @mike.d.the.referee On Instagram @mikedthereferee and Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MikeDtheReferee and X @MikeDtheReferee

  1. 5D AGO

    "The Multi-Sport Official — Lessons from Different Fields of Play"

    In this episode of Whistle Talk, host Michael D'Ambrosio engages with multi-sport officials Les Bagley, Chuck Knaub, and John Devaney to explore the intricacies of officiating across various sports. They discuss their journeys into officiating, the benefits and challenges of being a multi-sport official, and the importance of communication and fitness. The conversation also touches on the dynamics of working with different crews, dealing with assigners, and the cultural differences between officiating male and female sports. The officials share valuable advice for aspiring referees and emphasize the need for continuous improvement and adaptability in their roles. Takeaways Multi-sport officiating keeps you engaged year-round. Communication is key in officiating across different sports. Physical fitness is essential for officiating multiple sports. Understanding the culture of each sport is crucial. New officials should ask questions and learn from others. Dealing with different assigners can be challenging. Transitioning between sports requires adaptability. Flopping and embellishment are common issues in youth sports. Consistency in officiating builds trust with coaches and players. Continuous improvement is vital for officiating success. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Whistle Talk 01:10 The Importance of Multi-Sport Officials 04:45 Transitioning Between Sports 08:44 Benefits of Officiating Multiple Sports 11:29 Challenges of Multi-Sport Officiating 13:25 Dealing with Flopping and Embellishment 17:39 Crew Dynamics in Different Sports 21:00 Maintaining Physical Fitness as an Official 24:56 Navigating Different Officiating Styles 28:58 Learning from Other Officials 29:52 The Rise of Communication Technology in Sports 33:00 Advice for Multi-Sport Officials 34:15 Understanding Sport-Specific Cultures 37:23 Transitioning Between Male and Female Sports 41:14 Navigating Assigners and Scheduling Challenges 51:24 Final Words of Wisdom Keywords multi-sport officiating, sports officials, referee tips, officiating challenges, sports communication, referee health, officiating advice, sports culture, youth sports, referee training

    54 min

  2. FEB 11

    Recap of the Big Game

    In this episode of Whistle Talk, Michael D'Ambrosio dives into the recent Super Bowl game, analyzing key officiating decisions and controversial plays. He discusses the implications of various calls, including catches, potential offsides, and sideline skirmishes, while emphasizing the importance of understanding the referee's perspective. The conversation highlights the balance between allowing players to compete and maintaining control of the game, ultimately concluding that the officiating was commendable despite some contentious moments. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Whistle Talk 03:07 Super Bowl Game Analysis 11:19 Key Plays and Controversies 13:42 Sideline Skirmishes and Officiating 20:04 Two-Point Conversion Controversy 25:24 Conclusion and Reflections

    28 min

  3. FEB 4

    The AD's Playbook: Communication and Conflict in Sports Officiating

    Join host Michael D'Ambrosio as he dives into the world of sports officiating with a panel of experienced athletic directors: Daniel Chamberlain, Andrew Mitchell, Dave Ryden, and Brandon Davis. In this episode, they explore the critical role of communication in managing conflicts on the field. From high-stakes football games to everyday challenges in sports administration, our guests share insights on how clear communication can turn potential chaos into understanding and trust. Discover the unique dynamics of six-man football in Texas, the importance of pre-game communication, and how officials and coaches can work together to create a positive sporting environment. Whether you're a coach, player, or sports enthusiast, this episode offers valuable lessons on the human side of sports officiating. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Whistle Talk 04:20 Meet the Athletic Directors 11:40 Conflicts with Officials 16:15 Communication with Officials 23:21 Game Day Protocols and Responsibilities 27:46 Game Day Operations and Communication 29:52 The Role of Officials and Their Experience 35:00 Blacklisting Officials: A Necessary Measure? 39:09 Preseason Preparation and Communication with Coaches 50:44 Engaging with Officials: Setting Expectations 56:58 Closing Thoughts and Future Collaborations

    59 min

  4. JAN 28

    The Hidden Truth About Offensive Line Play

    In this episode of Whistle Talk, host Mike D'Ambrosio engages with coach Tony Shiffman of @HogFBChat and players Joey Spina (2026) and Zach Nina (2025) to delve into the intricacies of football officiating, particularly focusing on the offensive line. The conversation covers various topics including the importance of understanding rules, the challenges faced by offensive linemen, and the nuances of penalties. The guests share their experiences, insights on coaching techniques, and thoughts on potential rule changes that could benefit the game. The episode emphasizes the collaborative relationship between officials and players, aiming to enhance the overall football experience. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Whistle Talk 02:39 Meet the Guests: Coaches and Players 07:28 Understanding Offensive Line Rules 11:38 Exploring Penalties and Techniques 18:17 Defining Holding and Its Implications 30:44 Teaching Techniques in Football 32:31 Understanding Offensive Lineman Rules 36:52 Challenges of Refereeing 39:00 Memorable Penalties and Calls 55:21 Desired Rule Changes for Offensive Linemen

    1h 3m

  5. JAN 21

    Game Day Drama: Bills vs. Broncos Breakdown

    In this episode of Whistle Talk, host Michael D'Ambrosio and Daniel Chamberlain dive deep into the recent high-stakes football games, particularly focusing on the controversial officiating decisions that have sparked heated debates among fans and analysts alike. They discuss the implications of these calls on the outcomes of games, including a pivotal matchup between the Bills and Broncos, where officiating decisions played a significant role in the narrative surrounding the game. The conversation highlights the challenges referees face in making split-second decisions and the impact of social media on public perception of officiating. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Whistle Talk 01:20 Game Predictions and Excitement 06:09 Analyzing the Bills vs Broncos Game 07:49 Controversial Touchdown Discussion 11:51 Interception Analysis and Opinions 20:01 Referee Decisions and Game Management 22:06 Defensive Pass Interference and Roughing the Passer 29:53 Analyzing Key Penalties 31:12 The DPI Controversy 33:08 Unsportsmanlike Conduct Discussion 35:11 Expert Opinions on Officiating 37:51 The Catch Rule Explained 40:06 Trust Issues in the NFL 52:35 The NFL as an Entertainment Business

    58 min

  6. JAN 14

    Navigating Tax Season for Football Officials

    Summary In this episode of Whistle Talk, host Michael D'Ambrosio welcomes tax expert Jeff Conrad to discuss the intricacies of tax reporting for football officials. They cover topics such as income reporting, the importance of 1099 forms, allowable deductions, self-employment tax, and the significance of meticulous record-keeping. Jeff shares insights on navigating tax season, avoiding common pitfalls, and understanding the implications of hobby loss rules. The conversation emphasizes the need for officials to stay organized and informed as they prepare for the upcoming season and tax obligations. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Whistle Talk 03:16 Meet Jeff Conrad: The Tax Expert 04:12 Understanding Officiating Income 06:48 Navigating 1099s and Tax Reporting 10:40 Expenses and Deductions for Officials 14:15 Self-Employment Tax and Hobby Loss Rules 20:39 Record Keeping and Audit Preparedness 27:28 Multiple Sports and Deductions 34:54 Home Office Deductions and LLCs 39:31 State vs. Federal Tax Considerations 40:04 Avoiding Gray Areas in Tax Reporting 44:19 Final Thoughts and Recommendations About Jeff Conrad Professional: Tax Partner at FGMK, LLP Licensed attorney and CPA for 30 years www.fgmk.com Football Officiating:- Licensed 38 years- 91 playoff games, including 6 state finals- IHSA Football Clinician 20 years- Illinois - 2023 NFHS Football Official of the Year - Southwest Prairie Conference Football Assigner- Athletic Officials Association - football division president & Executive Board Vice  President- Joliet Football Officials Association - Board Member- IACO Football Clinic - Past Chairman- Referee Magazine - 2 articles published In addition, for the last 8 years, I have prepared video based training for all IL associations, and I have assisted Sam Knox with a training video series - Football Focus -  you can find on Youtube.  I also speak/present at 10 to 12 football clinics each year.

    53 min

  7. 12/24/2025

    Breaking Down the Seahawks vs. Rams 2 Pt Play

    In this episode of Whistle Talk, Michael D'Ambrosio discusses a controversial two-point conversion play from an NFL game between the Seahawks and Rams. He breaks down the play, explaining the rules surrounding backward passes and the significance of the officials' decisions. The episode also includes holiday wishes and a reminder for listeners to engage with the show. Takeaways Understanding the mind of a football official is crucial. The two-point conversion play sparked significant debate. Backward passes are a key aspect of football rules. Officials' signals are important for play clarity. The whistle's relevance can be misunderstood in officiating. Replay reviews can correct on-field mistakes effectively. Controversial calls can impact game outcomes significantly. Players often continue playing despite controversial calls. Engagement from listeners helps support the show. Holiday greetings foster a sense of community among listeners. 00:00 Introduction to Whistle Talk 02:48 Analyzing the Controversial Two-Point Conversion Play 17:50 Conclusion and Holiday Wishes buymeacoffee.com/MikeDtheReferee https://www.battlefields2ballfields.org/

    19 min

  8. 12/18/2025

    From Classroom to Field: Football Officials Clinics Unveiled

    In this episode of Whistle Talk, hosts Mike D and Daniel eora, Scott Aronowitz, and Andrew McGrath to discuss the significance of officiating clinics in football. They explore the evolution of coaching clinics, the importance of situational awareness, and the role of technology in officiating. The conversation emphasizes professionalism, accountability, and the need for continuous learning in the officiating community. The guests share insights from their experiences and the goals of their respective clinics, aiming to enhance the quality of officiating and coaching in football. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Whistle Talk 03:11 The Importance of Officiating Clinics 06:10 Insights from Experienced Officials 09:00 The Role of Situational Awareness in Officiating 12:08 The Evolution of Coaching Clinics 14:54 The Value of Networking in Clinics 18:08 Learning from Mistakes in Officiating 20:46 The Impact of Time and Score on Game Management 24:13 Preparing for Game Situations 27:10 Reflections on Officiating Experiences 39:27 The Importance of Being Coachable 42:15 Feedback and Growth in Officiating 46:48 Utilizing Technology in Officiating Clinics 52:53 The Role of Professionalism in Officiating 01:01:01 Engagement and Accountability in Officiating 01:08:00 Promoting Clinics and Resources for Officials Check out the clinics here https://www.fifoa.org/

    1h 12m
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About

Inside the Mind of a Football Official An inside look at the world of Football Officials. Interviews and content related to officiating the greatest team sport around. Mike D the Referee will bring you information ranging from Penalties, current game content, to how you can become an official yourself. From youth, high school, college to the NFL, Mike D will help give you the insight of what goes on Inside the Mind of a Football Official. And be sure to follow on TikTok @mike.d.the.referee On Instagram @mikedthereferee and Youtube https://www.youtube.com/@MikeDtheReferee and X @MikeDtheReferee

Information

  • Creator
    Mike D the Referee
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    104
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Mike D the Referee
  • Show Website
    Whistle Talk