Dawg Talk

Dawg Talk Podcast
  • 5.0 (5)
  • BASKETBALL
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Join NBA Champion Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Jordan McGruder for Dawg Talk, a podcast that goes beyond the stats and highlight reels, bringing you an authentic, insider perspective on life in pro sports. With KCP’s firsthand experience as a player and Jordan’s unique family viewpoint, Dawg Talk explores what it’s like to live, train, and compete at the highest level—all while staying grounded in positivity. KCP and Jordan deliver unfiltered conversations, behind-the-scenes moments, and insights that traditional media rarely show. They dive into all things basketball and share personal stories that reveal the real “KCP” and his journey. Each episode features engaging discussions across the sports world, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the dedication it takes to stay at the top. Whether you’re a hardcore sports fan or looking for inspiration in your journey, Dawg Talk brings humor, wisdom, and energy to every episode, empowering you to elevate your game in sports and life.

  1. Attention To Details With Troy Daniels

    JAN 16

    Attention To Details With Troy Daniels

    Dawg Talk Podcast is back in the basement studio, and hosts J Mac, Kenny and KCP are in for a real, unfiltered hoops conversation with Troy Daniels — former VCU Rams standout and 9-year NBA and overseas veteran. From fashion and confidence to championship locker rooms, Troy breaks down what it really takes to last at the highest level of basketball. He shares stories from his NBA journey, including what separates elite organizations like the Los Angeles Lakers, why veteran leadership matters more than ever, and how overseas basketball can be even more physical than the NBA. The guys dive into: Why playing for the Lakers feels like a completely different universeHow locker room culture has changed in today’s NBAWhy Euro League basketball isn’t for everyoneThe mental shift from life as a pro hooper to life after basketballTroy’s legendary Shaka Smart era at VCU and the “9 out of 10s” workouts that turned him into an elite shooterThis episode is packed with real stories, laughs, and insight you won’t hear on highlight reels. If you love basketball beyond the box score, this one’s for you. Time Stamps: 00:00 Intro – Basement vibes, J Mac sets the tone 03:15 Troy Daniels joins + fashion talk & Paris/Vogue World 07:30 Confidence, swag, and expressing yourself through style 11:45 First real linkups in the NBA + Lakers connections 15:55 What makes the Lakers organization different 20:30 Locker room culture, vets vs young players, leadership gaps 25:05 EuroLeague vs NBA – physicality, fans, and overseas pressure 30:10 Life after basketball + identity shift as a pro athlete 34:40 Family, fatherhood, and redefining purpose 38:20 Shaka Smart, VCU culture, and elite shooting development 44:10 “9 out of 10s” workouts and becoming an elite shooter 49:30 Final thoughts, laughs, and episode wrap-up _________________________ Tune in now! Like, share, and subscribe—we’re on all podcast platforms and YouTube. Watch on YouTube &  Stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get your pods. Connect with Troy: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/troydaniels30/?hl=en X (Twitter): https://x.com/troydaniels?lang=en Follow Us:  Dawg Talk Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/thedawgtalkpod/ Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: https://www.instagram.com/caldwellpope/ Jordan McGruder: https://www.instagram.com/wordsfrommac/ Kenny Gaines: https://www.instagram.com/kennygaines12/?hl=en Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    52 min
  2. Social Media Special: Maxisnicee & Famous Los NBA Hot Takes

    JAN 9

    Social Media Special: Maxisnicee & Famous Los NBA Hot Takes

    Welcome back to Dawg Talk Podcast — In this episode, the crew kicks it with social media personality and basketball content creator Maxisnicee and Famous Los, joined by KCP, KG, and J Mac for a wild, unedited conversation that jumps from NBA debates to behind-the-scenes hoop culture. We get into: • Top 5 players in the NBA right now • Stephen Curry, Luka Dončić, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Jaylen Brown, and today’s superstar debate • Warriors coaching decisions and roster frustrations • Lakers chemistry, LeBron, and three-ball-handler problems • Trade deadline rumors and who teams really need • Defensive Player of the Year politics • The reality of NBA defense vs. internet narratives • Content creation, impersonations, and when players take it personal • Hoop stories, YMCA runs, and real-life 1-on-1s • LA culture, media hype, and unfiltered opinions you won’t hear on TV This episode is loud, hilarious, and full of basketball truth the internet loves to argue about. Time Stamps: 0:00 Intro, vibes, and KCP in the building3:45 Meet Max Is Nice + background and impersonation origins7:20 Top 5 players in the NBA right now debate11:10 Steph Curry, Warriors coaching, and rotation frustrations15:40 Lakers talk: LeBron, chemistry, and ball-handler balance19:45 Trade deadline rumors and what teams really need24:10 Big men, defense, and roster construction across the league28:30 Defensive Player of the Year politics and popularity33:05 Content creation, impersonations, and players reacting37:10 Hoop stories, YMCA runs, and real-life 1-on-1s41:20 LA culture, media hype, and unfiltered takes45:40 Final laughs, shoutouts, and wrap-up _________________________  Tune in now! Like, share, and subscribe—we’re on all podcast platforms and YouTube. Watch on YouTube & Stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get your pods.  Connect with Maxisnicee: Instagram: @maxisnicee  Connect with Famous Los: Instagram: @famouslos32    Follow Us: Dawg Talk Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/thedawgtalkpod/  Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: https://www.instagram.com/caldwellpope/  Jordan McGruder: https://www.instagram.com/wordsfrommac/  Kenny Gaines: https://www.instagram.com/kennygaines12/?hl=en Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    48 min
  3. KCP Opens Up: Coming Off the Bench, Confidence, and Staying Locked In

    12/12/2025

    KCP Opens Up: Coming Off the Bench, Confidence, and Staying Locked In

    KCP gets real on Dawg Talk with J Mac and KG (Kenny Games) about one of the toughest parts of the NBA: role changes. In this episode, KCP talks about what it felt like to come off the bench for the first time in years, how it impacted his confidence, and the mindset shift that helped him respond like a champion. The crew breaks down veteran leadership, building team chemistry, staying ready through adversity, and what “being locked in” really looks like. The conversation goes beyond hoops too. The guys share how faith and time in the Bible has shaped their perspective, then pivot into relationship talk: engagement, communication, and how life changes when “the ring hits the finger.” And because it’s Dawg Talk, it gets hilarious when they compare wedding budgets, including a massive 10-year vow renewal budget that has everyone shocked. They close with a reaction to major football news, including the situation involving Michigan and Sherrone Moore, plus a bigger conversation about accountability, media narratives, and what changes when teams stop winning. If you’re into NBA mindset, locker room stories, faith and discipline, and unfiltered real talk, this episode is for you. Tune in now! Like, share, and subscribe—we’re on all podcast platforms and YouTube. Watch on YouTube &  Stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get your pods. Follow Us:  Dawg Talk Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/thedawgtalkpod/ Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: https://www.instagram.com/caldwellpope/ Jordan McGruder: https://www.instagram.com/wordsfrommac/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    59 min
  4. MCP: WAG Culture, NBA Moves and Her Viral Moments

    12/05/2025

    MCP: WAG Culture, NBA Moves and Her Viral Moments

    KCP’s viral Halloween costume twin is in the building. We’re back with another episode of Dawg Talk and this one is special. J Mac and KCP are live from Memphis with a highly requested guest: KCP’s wife, McKenzie Caldwell-Pope (MCP). Fresh off “breaking the internet” dressed up as her favorite player (yes, she pulled up as KCP head to toe, beard and all),  McKenzie sits down to talk about: Going viral on Halloween and ending up on SportsCenterLife as an NBA wife and mom of fiveHow she keeps her home, husband, kids, and schedule running like a whole corporationThe truth about WAG culture, comparison, and reality TV vs real lifeJuggling long-distance while KCP plays in Memphis and the family stays in OrlandoThe pros and cons of dating an athlete, missing holidays, and learning to create new traditionsWhy she changed her to-do list into an “intentions list”How she finds herself outside of being “KCP’s wife”Her fashion background, game day tunnel looks, and styling inspoThe story behind her old IG Live show “Sipin Style” and if it is coming backFuture family plans, vow renewal dreams, and if Kendall is really getting that little sister If you rock with family, faith, fashion, and real conversations about what this life is actually like behind the highlight reels, you are going to love this episode. Time Stamps: 00:00 – Welcome back + MCP makes her return02:10 – The viral Halloween moment everyone saw05:45 – Life as an NBA wife and mom of five09:32 – Intentions list, burnout, and finding balance13:50 – WAG life: Advice, comparison, and staying true17:40 – Reality TV vs real NBA wife culture21:55 – Long-distance marriage and constant relocations26:18 – Adjusting to Memphis + family transitions30:44 – Private life, communication, and keeping the marriage strong35:12 – Fashion inspo, styling KCP, and game day fits40:58 – Is Sippin Style coming back? MCP answers46:20 – Christmas wishlist + future baby plans_________________________ Tune in now! Like, share, and subscribe—we’re on all podcast platforms and YouTube. Watch on YouTube &  Stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get your pods. Connect with McKenzie: Instagram: @mckenziecaldwellpope Follow Us:  Dawg Talk Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/thedawgtalkpod/ Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: https://www.instagram.com/caldwellpope/ Jordan McGruder: https://www.instagram.com/wordsfrommac/ _________________________ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    52 min
  5. Scotty Pippen Jr.: Pressure, Pain & Opportunity

    11/21/2025

    Scotty Pippen Jr.: Pressure, Pain & Opportunity

    In this episode of Dawg Talk Podcast, J Mac and KCP sit down with Memphis Grizzlies guard Scotty Pippen Jr. to talk about finally getting healthy after toe surgery, the mental grind of playing through pain for years, and what it’s really like fighting for your spot as an undrafted guard in the league. Scotty opens up about: Playing through a fractured toe and turf toe for years The moment he finally decided to get surgery and what recovery looks like The mental battle of G League life, two-way contracts, and waiting on opportunity Growing up as Scottie Pippen’s son and dealing with pressure, expectations, and comparisons Going from Fort Lauderdale to Sierra Canyon and hooping on a “high school Lakers” type squad full of future pros Choosing Vanderbilt and developing under Jerry Stackhouse in the SEC Getting overlooked, going undrafted, and grinding through team workouts The difference between his time with the Lakers and finding his footing with the Grizzlies That first real NBA opportunity in Miami and how it changed his confidence Life in Memphis off the court, favorite spots, gaming, and his unexpected favorite movie Time Stamps: 00:00 – Nap Wake-Up Call & Episode Intro 02:15 – Playing on Nine Toes: Injury Story 05:05 – Years of Pain: Ice Buckets & Pain Meds 07:40 – Growing Up as Scottie Pippen’s Son 10:20 – Sierra Canyon & Celebrity High School Hoops 13:45 – From No Buzz to Vanderbilt 17:00 – EYBL Matchups with Future NBA Stars 19:55 – 2K Ratings & Gaming Talk 22:40 – Multi-Sport Childhood & Football Stories 25:30 – Life at Vanderbilt & SEC Lessons 28:40 – NBA Draft Process & Going Undrafted 31:00 – Lakers vs Grizzlies: Opportunity Shift 33:40 – Two-Way Contract Life & G League Grind 35:10 – Off-Court Life: Memphis, Movies & More If you love real hoop stories, behind-the-scenes NBA grind talk, and locker-room level jokes, this one is for you. _________________________ Tune in now! Like, share, and subscribe—we’re on all podcast platforms and YouTube. Watch on YouTube &  Stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get your pods. Connect with Scotty: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/spippenjr?igsh=anE4cDBwNzloc3Ri Follow Us:  Dawg Talk Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/thedawgtalkpod/ Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: https://www.instagram.com/caldwellpope/ Jordan McGruder: https://www.instagram.com/wordsfrommac/ _________________________ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    37 min
  6. KCP: Unpopular opinions, hot topics and new to Memphis

    11/14/2025

    KCP: Unpopular opinions, hot topics and new to Memphis

    Welcome BACK! On today's episode hosts J Mac and KCP are back in Memphis — not live, but you’ll feel like you’re in the room. J Mac and KCP discuss the Pelicans sideline moment, NBA “tough guys,” James Johnson stories, and whether LaMelo’s flash actually helps Charlotte win. KCP also lists his current top defenders and why versatility wins. We get real about life and hoops: KCP adjusting to a new team and coaching staff, the “flow” offense finally clicking, handling a slow start and the internet chatter, and what being away from family does to the grind. Then we zoom out to the league — Luka and Maxey going nuclear, rookie/face-of-the-NBA talk for Wemby (and a spicy Wemby vs. Porziņģis debate), and why the narrative around Russell Westbrook is overdue for respect. Time Stamps:  00:00 – Intro & Inside story: Pelicans sideline moment that broke the internet 06:32 –NBA “tough guys,” James Johnson black belt story, and locker room tales 09:20 – Wemby vs. Porziņģis debate 13:00 – Playing against Wemby firsthand — the intimidation and skill level 18:00 – KCP’s top defenders list and the art of defense in today’s NBA 20:00 – KCP checks in from Memphis: life, focus, and playing away from family 22:07 – Adjusting to a new team, system, and finding rhythm early in the season 23:57 – Slow start shooting struggles and staying confident through the noise 27:34 – Breaking down the Russ Westbrook conversation; Respecting vets, leadership roles, and how the league treats older players_________________________  Tune in now! Like, share, and subscribe—we’re on all podcast platforms and YouTube. Watch on YouTube & Stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get your pods. Follow Us: Dawg Talk Podcast:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedawgtalkpod/  Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: https://www.instagram.com/caldwellpope/  Jordan McGruder: https://www.instagram.com/wordsfrommac/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    32 min
  7. Jaylen Wells: From Slept On to Spotlight

    10/29/2025

    Jaylen Wells: From Slept On to Spotlight

    The Dawgs are at their new home in Memphis, and they're welcoming KCP's first Grizzlies' teammate! A certified underdog turned NBA rising star — Jaylen Wells, the West Coast hooper who went from JV benchwarmer to All-Rookie First Team in just a few years. From his 5'8" freshman days in Sacramento to making the Memphis Grizzlies rotation, Jaylen’s story is pure grind, faith, and staying ready when your name gets called. KCP and J-Mac — sit down with Jaylen Wells to talk about life in Memphis, starting his non-profit Sleep Nation, and how he turned “overlooked” into “unstoppable.” They dive deep into D2 battles, March Madness memories, insane pre-draft workouts, moments with top stars such as Dame and LeBron, and building confidence for Year 2 in the league. Plus: Barbecue debates, locker-room leadership, rookie lessons from Marcus Smart and Jaren Jackson Jr., and what it means to stay humble when your story’s just beginning. TIME STAMPS 00:00 – Dawg Talk goes to Memphis: New city, new energy 01:30 – Meet Jaylen Wells: From Sacramento to the M 03:00 – Sleep Nation: Uplifting the slept-on hoopers 05:10 – From 5'8" JV to 6'6" D1: The grind that built him 08:00 – D2 to March Madness: Sonoma to Washington State 11:45 – Declaring early, betting on himself & the 23-team workout grind 15:45 – Rookie year in Memphis: Exceeding every goal 18:30 – Lessons from Marcus Smart, JJJ, and KCP 21:00 – Rising Stars weekend, LeBron moments & guarding Dame 24:15 – Year 2 mindset: Failing forward, leading louder Watch on YouTube & Stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and all podcast platforms Connect with Jaylen Wells: Instagram: @jaylenwells_ Follow Us: Dawg Talk Podcast: @thedawgtalkpod Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: @caldwellpope J-Mac: @wordsfrommac   Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    29 min
  8. Jake Wilkins: Carving His Own Georgia Legacy

    10/22/2025

    Jake Wilkins: Carving His Own Georgia Legacy

    The Dawgs are in the house with a certified Georgia legend in the making — Jake Wilkins, the "Baby Highlight" carrying on his family’s basketball legacy while carving out his own path in Athens. From dunking at 13 to adjusting to SEC speed, NIL deals, and gaming on the side, Jake opens up about everything — the pressure (or lack of it) that comes with being his father’s son, staying loyal to Grayson, and what keeps him grounded as he steps into the spotlight. The crew gets into NIL culture, class checkers, fan-bike punishments, late-night golf sessions, gaming builds on 2K, and why Georgia hoops is slept on. Plus, Jake shares his SEC predictions, Chick-fil-A order, and favorite Athens hangouts — Dawg Nation, this one’s for you. TIME STAMPS: 00:00 – Welcome & intro: A true UGA legend joins the set01:45 – First dunk at 13: Genetics, grind, and the “Pogo Stick” bounce03:22 – NIL & college transition: How money changed the freshman experience05:08 – Life in Athens: Dining hall stories, Chick-fil-A cards, and curfews07:10 – Speed of the game: Adjusting from high school to the SEC08:55 – Locker room talk: Roles, shots, and lessons from older Dawgs10:40 – Family legacy: Making his own name beyond his dad’s shadow12:20 – Grayson loyalty: Why he stayed home instead of going prep14:05 – Georgia hoops pride: City of Palms, Boozer twins, and top competition16:05 – Recruitment story: Why he chose UGA and how the coaches showed love18:10 – Class checkers & fan bikes: Discipline, school grind, and illegal workouts20:15 – Off-court life: Gaming setups, 2K “Wemby build,” and FIFA debates22:05 – Golf obsession: Playing 18 holes after a one-hour nap23:40 – SEC predictions: Top-five confidence and Dawgs game-day picks25:45 – Closing & blessings: Staying grounded, staying safe, and Athens nightlifeRecorded LIVE from the University of Georgia. Tune in now! Like, share, and subscribe—we’re on all podcast platforms and YouTube. Watch on YouTube &  Stream on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and everywhere you get your pods. Connect with our guest Jake Wilkins at:  Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamjakewilkins/?hl=en Follow Us: Dawg Talk Podcast: https://www.instagram.com/thedawgtalkpod/ Kentavious Caldwell-Pope: https://www.instagram.com/caldwellpope/ Jordan McGruder: https://www.instagram.com/wordsfrommac/ Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

    27 min
See All (44)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
5 Ratings

About

Join NBA Champion Kentavious Caldwell-Pope and Jordan McGruder for Dawg Talk, a podcast that goes beyond the stats and highlight reels, bringing you an authentic, insider perspective on life in pro sports. With KCP’s firsthand experience as a player and Jordan’s unique family viewpoint, Dawg Talk explores what it’s like to live, train, and compete at the highest level—all while staying grounded in positivity. KCP and Jordan deliver unfiltered conversations, behind-the-scenes moments, and insights that traditional media rarely show. They dive into all things basketball and share personal stories that reveal the real “KCP” and his journey. Each episode features engaging discussions across the sports world, offering listeners a deeper understanding of the dedication it takes to stay at the top. Whether you’re a hardcore sports fan or looking for inspiration in your journey, Dawg Talk brings humor, wisdom, and energy to every episode, empowering you to elevate your game in sports and life.

Information

  • Creator
    Dawg Talk Podcast
  • Years Active
    2024 - 2026
  • Episodes
    44
  • Rating
    Explicit
  • Copyright
    © Dawg Talk Podcast
  • Show Website
    Dawg Talk