ZenGame: Inside the World of College Sports

Grant Gurtin
  • 5.0 (10)
  • FOOTBALL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

The ZenGame Podcast features in-depth interviews with college athletes and coaches, highlighting their journeys on and off the field. Each episode offers a unique look at the mental and physical challenges of balancing academics and elite-level athletes.

  1. 08/04/2025

    Football Journeys, Leadership Roles, and College Breakthroughs with Drew and Miles

    In this episode, Drew Mestemaker shares his football journey, from early memories to high school experiences. He reflects on advice from Dakota Pruekop, playing multiple positions, and role models. Drew discusses visualization techniques, memorable moments, and a state semi championship. He recounts non-football high school memories and rooming with friends in college. The episode explores his college connection, preparation, choosing UNT, and learning from coaches and teammates. Drew shares insights on his first college start, overcoming challenges, leadership roles, key games, and offers advice for underdog players while discussing his future outlook.

    1h 1m

  2. 08/03/2025

    Billy Edwards Jr.: Football Transitions, Team Dynamics, and Wisconsin Aspirations

    In this episode, Billy Edwards Jr. shares his journey through college football, starting with his experiences in Madison's vibrant culture and fan base. He discusses team dynamics amidst coaching changes, influenced by figures like Desmond Ritter and Coach Fickell. Billy delves into pre-game routines, his football path, and the significance of his jersey number. He recounts overcoming injuries, his walk-on decision at Maryland, and navigating the transfer portal. Billy reflects on backup quarterback offers, visits, faith's role, and ultimately choosing Wisconsin. He talks about adjusting to a new offense, building relationships, and finding success, while also highlighting connections with former teammates and future prospects at Wisconsin.

    50 min

  3. 08/02/2025

    Lindsey Scott Jr.: Football Journeys, Coaching Insights, and Balancing Academics

    In this episode, Lindsey Scott Jr. shares his journey from early football beginnings to his current role at Texas Tech. He discusses the transition to Texas Tech, the influence of coaches like Coach McGuire and Coach Kenny, and their distinct coaching styles. Lindsey reflects on offensive responsibilities, high-tempo adjustments, and Baron's growth and Heisman potential. The episode delves into CFL opportunities, tactical comparisons with the NFL, and Texas Tech's strategies, including fourth-down decisions and the impact of transfers. Lindsey also talks about balancing academics with athletics, personal growth at EMCC, and his transition to coaching at Texas State, emphasizing the role of faith in his journey.

    57 min

  4. 08/01/2025

    Fernando Mendoza: Ivy League Recruitment, Quarterback Growth, and Season Aspirations

    In this episode, Fernando Mendoza shares his college football journey, reflecting on competitiveness with his brother and his role on the scout team. He discusses emulating top quarterbacks, the influence of Michael Penix, and the transfer portal. Fernando recounts lessons from a close game against Miami and Coach Signetti's developmental approach. He navigates high school experiences, Ivy League recruitment, and his family legacy, highlighting his transition from backup to starter. The episode explores the importance of sleep, nutrition, recovery, and Tom Brady's dietary principles, as well as his footwork evolution, team dynamics at Indiana, and season aspirations.

    49 min

  5. 07/31/2025

    Alberto Mendoza: Family, Faith, and Football at Indiana

    In this episode, Alberto Mendoza discusses his college football journey at Indiana, covering coaching staff, team culture, and player development. He shares insights on his recruitment, transition to Big Ten football, and playing alongside his brother. Alberto reflects on moving from high school to college, role models, and overcoming challenges through film study. He highlights freshman year experiences, family influence, and team potential. Alberto also touches on personal challenges, faith, team bonding, and memorable moments at Indiana. The episode concludes with thoughts on emerging players, season predictions, and quarterback comparisons.

    39 min

  6. 04/03/2025

    J'Wan Roberts: Journey to the Final Four, Coach Sampson's Impact, and Competitive Drive

    Join J'Wan Roberts on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as he reflects on his journey in college basketball, including the challenges and triumphs of the season and reaching the Final Four. J'Wan shares insights from the loss to Baylor and the significant impact of Coach Sampson on his development. The episode delves into the role of competition, effort, and the intensity of practices in shaping athletes. J'Wan also offers observations on Duke's Cooper Flagg and the path to the Final Four, providing a candid look at the mental and physical demands of elite college basketball.

    13 min

  7. 03/27/2025

    Terrance Arceneaux: Growth, Team Dynamics, and Sweet 16 Memories

    Join Terrance Arceneaux on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin as he reflects on his bench experience and the key takeaways from the past year. Terrance shares insights into a day in the life before reaching the Sweet 16, including impactful messages from veteran players. The conversation delves into team dynamics, preseason challenges, and pivotal turning points, particularly highlighting the Kansas game. Terrance discusses the atmosphere and motivation during road games, while also exploring his personal growth and support system. The episode captures key contributions and fun moments throughout the season, concluding with closing remarks and expressions of gratitude.

    14 min

  8. 01/01/2025

    From Paris to Kansas State: Kobe Savage's Inspiring Football Journey

    Kobe Savage shares his remarkable journey from Paris, Texas to college football stardom on ZenGame with Grant Gurtin. He opens up about the challenges faced at Texas A&M Commerce and JUCO, including a notable rivalry with Diego Papia. Kobe discusses his growing confidence and decision to join Kansas State, where he adapted to become a starting safety. He reflects on maintaining motivation, recovering from an ACL injury, and preparing for the 2023 season. Kobe offers insights into leadership lessons learned during his injury and balances NFL aspirations with college football commitments. The episode concludes with Kobe's gratitude and faith through recovery, recollections of JUCO, and memorable road trips.

    30 min
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The ZenGame Podcast features in-depth interviews with college athletes and coaches, highlighting their journeys on and off the field. Each episode offers a unique look at the mental and physical challenges of balancing academics and elite-level athletes.

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