Beyond the Game Podcast

Beyond the Game
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Diving into BYU athletes’ stories beyond the game! Having played fullback behind legendary quarterbacks such as Wilson, McMahon, and Young, Mike Lacey (1978-1981) witnessed numerous tales of comebacks, acts of courage, and the highs and lows of a team rising to national prominence. Notably, some of his former teammates like Andy Reid and Kyle Whittingham, continue to leave a lasting impact on the game. The purpose of each episode is to share the intriguing stories behind and beyond each team, game, and player. These stories are always meant to inspire and apply to each of our daily lives!

  1. Fred Roberts: From BYU Standout to NBA Veteran and Finding Joy Beyond the Game

    3D AGO

    Fred Roberts: From BYU Standout to NBA Veteran and Finding Joy Beyond the Game

    In this episode of Beyond the Game, Mike Lacey catches up with his former BYU roommate and 13-year NBA veteran Fred Roberts. One of the true greats from BYU’s past, Fred’s career spanned eras from Danny Ainge to Mike Smith before he embarked on a prolific pro journey with teams like the Celtics, Bucks, and Bucks . The conversation begins with a candid look at a difficult week for the BYU community, marked by the passing of Patty Edwards, Richie Saunders' injury, and the departure of Parker Kingston, before diving into the humor and history of Fred’s basketball life . In this episode, we discuss: The Journeyman Life: What it really looks like to play 13 years at the highest level, moving across eight different NBA cities. NBA Icons: Fred shares what it was like to be "clobbered" by Dr. J (Julius Erving) during a dunk attempt and the lessons learned from facing the league's most aggressive stars . A Roommate Reunion: Hilarious stories from Mike and Fred’s days at BYU, including a memorable (and embarrassing) duet on a player piano at the Wilkinson Center . Life Beyond the Pros: How Fred has transitioned from the spotlight of the NBA to finding fulfillment in family and personal growth. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    58 min
  2. Dawson Baker: Navigating Injury and Building Impact Beyond the Bench

    5D AGO

    Dawson Baker: Navigating Injury and Building Impact Beyond the Bench

    In this episode of Beyond the Game, Mike Lacey is joined by BYU guard Dawson Baker. Known for his lethal three-point shooting and ability to penetrate defenses, Dawson has faced a challenging road marked by injury and a transition from UC Irvine to the Big 12 stage. Dawson opens up about the mental toll of being sidelined, his transformative mission to Micronesia, and the mature perspective he brings to his future in Provo. In this episode, we discuss: The Injury Struggle: Dawson shares the "worst thing about sports", watching opportunities pass by from the bench, and how he’s shifting his mindset to prepare for what's next. Lessons from Micronesia: A deep dive into Dawson’s mission experience, from sleeping on floors and eating fish and rice to learning that "there are blessings on the other side of hard". The "Refiner’s Fire": What it was really like returning to college basketball after two years away, including the physical "fire" of working back into shape during Covid. Changing the Shot: The surprising story of how Dawson completely rebuilt his shooting form after his mission, leading to a standout freshman year at UC Irvine. NIL & Mature Decisions: Dawson discusses the impact of NIL on modern college athletes and how he’s marinating on his decision to return for another year. Big 12 Atmosphere: Mike breaks down the impressive Big 12 football attendance numbers and reflects on how the BYU stadium environment has evolved since his playing days in the 1980s Plus, Mike shares a personal connection to Dawson’s injury journey, reflecting on his own ACL tear and the difficulty of watching from the sidelines. #byubasketball #byucougars #collegebasketball Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    46 min
  3. Greg Dreiling: From Kansas Stardom to an NBA Fireman Career

    FEB 13

    Greg Dreiling: From Kansas Stardom to an NBA Fireman Career

    In this episode of Beyond the Game, Mike Lacey sits down with 10-year NBA veteran and Kansas Jayhawk legend Greg Dreiling. From playing behind 7’4” Rick Smits to his time with the Dallas Mavericks and Cleveland Cavaliers, Greg shares what it was really like to navigate a decade at the highest level of professional basketball. Greg opens up about the "Fireman" mentality required to survive in the league, the legendary competitive spirit of Reggie Miller, and his deep roots in the game that continue today. In this episode, we discuss: The "Fireman" Mentality: Greg describes his role as an NBA pro—always being ready to "jump down the pole" and step up whenever a teammate was injured or the team needed a spark . Inside the Indiana Pacers: What it was like playing behind Rick Smits and sharing the court with the legendary Reggie Miller. Reggie Miller Stories: Greg reflects on Reggie’s incredible loyalty to Indiana and the "ice in his veins" that allowed him to keep shooting, even after a 1-for-11 first half . Jayhawk Pride: Greg’s thoughts on the current Kansas team, their recent victory over #1 Arizona, and his memories of the legendary battles at Iowa State . Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    57 min
  4. Drake Toll: Fan Accountability, The Savannah Bananas, and Carrying the BYU Boat

    FEB 6

    Drake Toll: Fan Accountability, The Savannah Bananas, and Carrying the BYU Boat

    In this episode of Beyond the Game, Mike Lacey is joined by Drake Toll. Despite having no personal ties to BYU or being a member of the LDS faith, Drake has become one of the most passionate national voices for the Cougar fan base. Following a frustrating loss at Oklahoma State, Mike and Drake dive into a raw and necessary conversation about the state of sportsmanship in the Big 12. In this episode, we discuss: The Purpose of Sport: Mike reflects on why we play, from self-progress and skill-building to the "entertainment" of an AJ Dybantsa put-back dunk. Defending the BYU Brand: Why Drake feels it is his "calling" to represent a fan base that is often treated as an afterthought on national television. The Savannah Bananas Connection: Exploring Drake’s involvement with the "fun-first" world of Banana Ball and how it brings joy back to the game. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    44 min
  5. Howard Balzer: Hofstra to the Hall of Fame and the Stories Behind 45 Super Bowls

    FEB 4

    Howard Balzer: Hofstra to the Hall of Fame and the Stories Behind 45 Super Bowls

    In this episode of Beyond the Game, Mike Lacey is joined by a true titan of sports journalism, Howard Balzer. With a career spanning five decades and 45 Super Bowls, Howard shares a lifetime of "behind the scenes" stories from his time covering the St. Louis and Arizona Cardinals, the Rams, and his 23 years on the Pro Football Hall of Fame selection committee. Howard reflects on the "omen" that started his career at Hofstra University and takes us deep into the locker rooms and draft rooms of NFL history. In this episode, we discuss: The Hall of Fame Process: Howard pulls back the curtain on the complicated and often "secret" voting process for the Class of 2025, including the debate surrounding icons like Bill Belichick and Robert Kraft. The Kurt Warner Miracle: A deep dive into the "behind the scenes" story of how Kurt Warner almost never became a Ram, including the 1998 tryout that the offensive coordinator didn't even attend. Decades Zoom: A profound reflection on time in the industry, inspired by a conversation with Hall of Famer Warren Sapp: "Days drag, years flow, decades zoom". Sculpting Legends: Howard shares his experience interviewing fellow BYU alum Blair Buswell, the legendary sculptor responsible for the iconic Hall of Fame busts. The "Real Job" Dilemma: How Howard chose a life in the press box over a safe career in accounting, much to his parents' initial disappointment. Plus, Mike shares a personal connection to the BYU legends of the 80s and previews the upcoming Big 12 showdown between #13 BYU and #14 Kansas. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 4m
  6. Xavion Staton: From Youth Football to Team USA and Finding Home at BYU

    JAN 30

    Xavion Staton: From Youth Football to Team USA and Finding Home at BYU

    In this episode of Beyond the Game, Mike Lacey sits down with one of the most exciting young talents in college basketball, BYU freshman center Xavion Staton. Despite not picking up a basketball until the 9th grade, Xavion’s rise has been meteoric—from a 7-foot wide receiver prospect in youth football to a Team USA invitee and Nevada Gatorade Player of the Year. Xavion opens up about his journey to Provo, his unique life off the court, and the "dog" mentality of this year's BYU squad following their recent thriller against #1 Arizona. In this episode, we discuss: The BYU Culture: Why Xavion felt "at home" the moment he stepped on campus and his deep connection to the fans and coaching staff. Multi-Sport Roots: The "wild" alternate reality of Xavion as a 7-foot wide receiver and why he ultimately chose the hardwood over the gridiron. Team USA & National Spotlight: What it was like being one of only 35 players invited to the USA Basketball Junior National Team minicamps. Life Beyond the Court: From his passion for interior design and Legos to his Utah food review blog, "Xbox as far". Injury & Leadership: How Xavion is staying engaged as the "loudest voice" on the bench while working back to 100%. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    44 min
  7. Markell Staffieri: From BYU Linebacker to Financial Leader and a Legacy of Impact

    JAN 28

    Markell Staffieri: From BYU Linebacker to Financial Leader and a Legacy of Impact

    In this episode of Beyond the Game, host Mike Lacey sits down with former BYU star linebacker Markell Staffieri. A key part of the Bronco Mendenhall era, Mark shares incredible stories from his time in Provo and how his path almost led him into the coaching ranks alongside current DC Kelly Poppinga. We dive into: The "What If" Coaching Story: How a condo purchase in San Diego changed Markell’s life path—and opened the door for Kelly Poppinga. The Beck Connection: The hilarious and rocky start to his relationship with brother-in-law and BYU legend John Beck. The Multi-Sport Advantage: Why Markell believes specializing in one sport is a "travesty" for youth athletes today. Cougar Roots: Growing up as a "bat boy" for BYU baseball and being mentored by MLB great Wally Joyner. Plus, Mike breaks down the latest in BYU sports, including the Lady Cougars' big win over Texas Tech and the highly anticipated "Rivalry Week" matchups against Utah and Arizona. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 1m
  8. Jake Retzlaff

    JAN 23

    Jake Retzlaff

    In this episode of Beyond the Game, Mike Lacey sits down with former BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff for an in-depth look at one of the most eventful years in college football. Jake opens up about his "rollercoaster" journey, from navigating off-field challenges at BYU to finding a new home and winning a conference championship at Tulane. Plus, Mike breaks down the newly released Big 12 football schedule, including the highly anticipated "Snub Bowl" against Notre Dame. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    50 min
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5
out of 5
19 Ratings

About

Diving into BYU athletes’ stories beyond the game! Having played fullback behind legendary quarterbacks such as Wilson, McMahon, and Young, Mike Lacey (1978-1981) witnessed numerous tales of comebacks, acts of courage, and the highs and lows of a team rising to national prominence. Notably, some of his former teammates like Andy Reid and Kyle Whittingham, continue to leave a lasting impact on the game. The purpose of each episode is to share the intriguing stories behind and beyond each team, game, and player. These stories are always meant to inspire and apply to each of our daily lives!

Information

  • Creator
    Beyond the Game
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    77
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Beyond the Game
  • Show Website
    Beyond the Game Podcast

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