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. Harvey Unga: Running with Your Eyes and the Art of the BYU Ground Game

    1D AGO

    Harvey Unga: Running with Your Eyes and the Art of the BYU Ground Game

    In this episode of Beyond the Game, Mike Lacey sits down with a BYU legend, the program’s first running back to rush for 1,000 yards in three consecutive seasons: Harvey Unga. Now an assistant coach for the Cougars, Harvey discusses his transition from the field to the sidelines and the lessons he’s passing down to the current roster. In this episode, we discuss: The "Running with Your Eyes" Philosophy: Harvey explains the game-changing advice he received from Coach Lance Reynolds and why vision is the most critical tool for a running back. Coaching the New Generation: How Harvey uses technology like "Kahoots" and quizzes to keep modern players engaged and focused during film sessions. The O-Line Connection: Why there is a "marriage" between the offensive line and the backfield, and how understanding line-play makes for a better runner. Student of the Game: Harvey shares his admiration for L.J. Martin’s work ethic and how the young star is already studying next year’s opponents. Family & Coaching: A look at the busy life of the Unga family, with Harvey coaching football and his wife, Keilani, coaching the BYU women's basketball team. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 8m
  2. Ethan Thomason: Navigating the Road Back from Injury Through Process and a Champion’s Mindset

    APR 7

    Ethan Thomason: Navigating the Road Back from Injury Through Process and a Champion’s Mindset

    In this episode of Beyond the Game, Mike Lacey sits down with BYU offensive tackle Ethan Thomas. A highly touted recruit from Fort Collins, Ethan stands 6'8" and 310 lbs, but his journey hasn't been without its trials . After a devastating ACL tear during bowl game practice, Ethan shares the mental and physical hurdles of starting over from scratch. In this episode, we discuss: The "Gentle Giant" Origins: How a "baby giraffe" in 7th grade basketball turned a tough-love moment from his father into an elite work ethic. The Injury That Changed Everything: Ethan walks us through the "GT Counter" play where he felt the dreaded pop and how he handled the immediate aftermath . The Science of Recovery: A look inside the high-tech rehab world at BYU, from Kaiser hydraulic squats to working with the director of mental performance. Process vs. Results: Why Ethan believes that focusing on the "thankless" daily work of an offensive lineman is the only way to reach the top of the depth chart. Family Roots: The influence of his parents—both former NCAA athletes—in helping him navigate the pressures of high-level college football. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    1h 1m
  3. Pete Souza: From Villanova Roots to Broadcasting the Biggest Stages in Sports

    MAR 20

    Pete Souza: From Villanova Roots to Broadcasting the Biggest Stages in Sports

    In this episode of Beyond the Game, Mike Lacey sits down with renowned broadcaster and play-by-play announcer Pete Souza. Pete brings a wealth of experience and a unique perspective on the "holiday" that is March Madness. The conversation dives deep into the heart of the NCAA tournament, the shifting landscape of college athletics, and why BYU’s entry into the Big 12 has fundamentally changed the game for the Cougars. In this episode, we discuss: The Magic of March: Pete reflects on growing up near Villanova and how the tournament taught him that "anything is possible" in sports and in life. Cinderella and the NIL Era: Can the "little guys" still compete? Pete and Mike discuss how the transfer portal and NIL are reshaping the underdog narrative. The Big 12 Powerhouse: Why the Big 12 is currently the "second best league in the country" and what it means for BYU to finally have a seat at the table. The Marriott Center Experience: Pete shares his firsthand account of broadcasting from Provo and why the energy in the building is truly "special". A New Chapter for BYU Basketball: Comparing the coaching styles of Mark Pope and Kevin Young, and why the program is perfectly positioned for the future. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

    55 min
  4. Ellie Walbruch: Finding Joy in the Journey and the Freedom to Play

    MAR 5

    Ellie Walbruch: Finding Joy in the Journey and the Freedom to Play

    After a year of grueling rehab, BYU soccer star Ellie Walbruch is back on the pitch and playing with more joy than ever. In this episode of Beyond the Game, Mike Lacey and Ellie dive into the incredible "underdog" story of the BYU women’s soccer team and their unforgettable run through the Big 12. From the "infamous pop" of an ACL injury to the pure adrenaline of silencing a home crowd as an 8th seed, Ellie shares the lessons in confidence and resilience she learned along the way. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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

    FEB 20

    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
  6. Dawson Baker: Navigating Injury and Building Impact Beyond the Bench

    FEB 18

    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
  7. 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
  8. 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
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5
out of 5
20 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
    81
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Beyond the Game
  • Show Website
    Beyond the Game Podcast

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