Finding 44

Project 44

This is Finding 44, a new podcast created by Project 44, spotlighting champions for change.  In this series, we'll talk to public figures, thought leaders, athletes, coaches, and more, who are doing great things in their community, both in and outside of whatever arena they happen to play in. We'll explore our guests' successes on and off the court or field, favorite foods, funny memories, places to visit, and more. But we think our guests' impressive accomplishments in their line of work and stellar local recommendations are only outdone by their selfless willingness to give back to the communities around them.  Inspired by the late Andrew Smith, wearing number 44 for the Butler Bulldogs, Project 44 is on a mission to create a culture of yes, where, whatever the cause, others are inspired to act in support of something bigger than themselves and utilize their platform for the benefit of the greater good. Follow along on our journey to find other inspiring 44s as we shine a light on their incredible impact.  This is Finding 44. Spotlighting champions for change. Finding 44 is an opportunity to shine a light on those who shine their light on causes important to them. We talk to masters of the “pay it forward” mentality, who work tirelessly in their personal and professional lives, to be the change they want to see. About The Host Larra Overton is the host of Finding 44, as well as host, reporter and executive producer for the Indianapolis Colts. Appearing on TV, radio, podcasts, and Colts.com, Larra joined the Emmy Award-winning production team following impressive stints in Indianapolis and Louisville broadcast news. As a former D1 athlete for IU Track, she also works closely with USA Track & Field. Larra has been recognized with six Emmy Awards for her work as both a reporter and producer. Guests like World Champion Brad Stevens, collegiate and professional athletes, and civic and business leaders on the forefront of philanthropy and community engagement share their passions and personal journeys to becoming leaders from the front office to the front lines. About Project 44 Launched in 2016, Project 44 was created in honor of the late Andrew Smith. Wearing the #44, Andrew was beloved, standout member of Butler’s two-time NCAA Finals basketball team. On January 12, 2016, at the age of25, Andrew passed away following a two-year battle with cancer. Committed to carrying out Andrew’s selfless work, Project 44’s mission is to save lives through bone marrow and blood stem cell donation. Focused on education, awareness, and advocacy for the national bone marrow registry, Project 44 has been working since its inception to build mainstream awareness and willingness to support the registry, and cultivate a culture of “Yes!” where all patients needing a life-saving cure have an available match on the registry. Mission: To save lives through bone marrow and blood stem cell donation Vision: To cultivate a society where every patient needing a bone marrow transplant has a match and a fighting chance at life. Objectives: Education, Awareness + Advocacy

  1. 12/09/2025

    The Legacy of Butler University’s Bulldog Mascot: Michael's Journey from Higher Ed to IndyCar

    In this episode, Michael Kaltenmark, a Butler University graduate, shares the impact of his two-decade career at Butler, including his pivotal role in advancing the live mascot program and the creation of Project 44. He discusses the deeper connections and lifelong relationships he formed at Butler, which spurred his professional growth.  Michael's narrative also includes his personal journey through a kidney transplant, highlighting the profound support from the Butler community. Furthermore, he delves into his significant contributions towards boosting the visibility and engagement of the Indianapolis Motor Speedway (IMS).  Throughout, Michael emphasizes the values of teamwork and service rooted in the Butler Way and details ongoing efforts to keep Indianapolis an attractive destination for major sporting events. The episode encapsulates the intertwining of sports, personal challenges, and community spirit. 00:00 Introduction and Setting the Scene 01:57 Michael's Journey at Butler University 04:19 The Birth of the Live Mascot Program 11:16 The Impact of Social Media and Personal Challenges 16:49 Project 44 and the Culture of Yes 25:25 Carrying Forward a Legacy 25:52 The Butler Way: A Philosophy for Life 27:17 Unforeseen Opportunities and Experiences 28:38 Achieving Milestones at IMS 32:54 Maintaining Year-Round Relevance 38:35 Indianapolis: A City of Sports and Community 44:08 The Spirit of the Bulldog 46:25 Celebrating 10 Years of Project 44 Discover More: ⁠https://project44.org/⁠ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: ⁠https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/⁠ Facebook: ⁠Project 44⁠

    48 min
  2. 07/01/2025

    Overcoming Leukemia: William Yank's Journey of Hope and Resilience

    In this inspiring conversation, leukemia survivor William Yank shares his remarkable journey from his initial diagnosis during college to his present-day remission.  He details the challenges and treatments he faced, including CAR T-cell therapy and a stem cell transplant from his sister. William credits his optimism and resilience to his strong support system and acceptance of reality, supported by therapy.  Reflecting on his lowest and highest points, he highlights the role of community and hope in his battle against cancer. William discusses his advocacy work with organizations like the Leukemia Lymphoma Society and his evolving career in public speaking.  Emphasizing the power of hope and action, he expresses his passion for inspiring young adults to find and give hope. William's story underscores the importance of bone marrow and stem cell transplants, highlighting the impact of Project 44. Join William as he continues to share his message of hope and resilience, aiming to create a meaningful impact on others. 00:00 Introduction and Welcome 01:20 William's Leukemia Journey Begins 01:36 Diagnosis and Initial Treatment 03:00 Relapses and Advanced Treatments 03:39 Finding Strength and Support 04:51 Highs and Lows of the Journey 06:56 The Second Relapse 07:54 Stem Cell Transplant Process 14:00 Sharing the Journey on Social Media 16:22 Public Speaking and Advocacy 21:33 Future Goals and Vision 27:20 Commemorating Milestones 28:21 Conclusion and Farewell Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44

    31 min
  3. 04/22/2025

    Linda Reich on Combating Child Exploitation with kNot Today

    Linda Reich, co-founder of kNot Today, joins us and talks about her journey from supporting her husband's NFL career to becoming a fierce advocate against child exploitation.  Linda reveals the motivation behind starting kNot Today, driven by personal connections to victims of abuse. She discusses the impactful work they're doing, from prevention programs to innovative solutions like canine detection units. The conversation highlights the silent epidemic of child abuse, stressing the importance of community awareness, support, and collaboration among nonprofit organizations.  Linda also shares her personal approaches to parenting and protecting children, offering resources and guidance available on kNotToday.org. Throughout, Linda's passion and commitment to saving and improving children's lives shine brightly. 00:00 Catching Up with Linda: A Journey Back in Time 01:42 Balancing Careers and Family in the NFL 03:26 The Birth of Not Today: A Mission Against Child Exploitation 03:47 Personal Encounters with Child Exploitation 05:36 From Awareness to Action: Founding Not Today 06:27 Building a Foundation: Early Challenges and Successes 07:03 Prevention and Awareness: The Core of Not Today 09:04 Understanding the Reality of Child Exploitation 10:57 Navigating Difficult Conversations and Barriers 16:14 Innovative Approaches: Canine Detection Initiative 20:15 National Impact and Future Goals 23:51 Personal Reflections and Family Impact 25:03 Accessing Resources and Community Support 27:26 The Power of Teamwork and Collaboration 28:29 Concluding Thoughts and Call to Action Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44

    33 min
  4. 03/11/2025

    Scot Pollard: NBA Veteran's Journey from Heart Transplant to Advocacy

    In this episode, 11-year NBA veteran Scot Pollard opens up about his life-saving heart transplant experience and how he is using his journey to impact others.  Scot discusses the personal challenges he faced during his wife's battle with breast cancer and his own severe heart issues, which led to heart failure and, ultimately, a heart transplant. He shares the emotional ups and downs of his health journey while advocating for organ donation through the Pearls of Life Foundation.  Scot also dispels common myths about organ donation and emphasizes the importance of being honest with healthcare providers. We focus on his transformation from an athlete with a strong competitive spirit to a passionate advocate for change, helping others through awareness and support for organ donation. To learn more about Scot's charity, visit pearlsoflife.org. 00:00 Introduction to Scott Pollard's Journey 01:26 Scott's Wife's Breast Cancer Diagnosis 02:47 Scott's Heart Health Concerns 03:49 The Flu Shot Incident 05:29 Heart Failure and Ablations 08:58 Facing the Reality of a Heart Transplant 11:56 The Transplant Process Begins 15:29 Life After the Transplant 19:37 Advocating for Your Health 20:46 Navigating Medical Advice and Personal Choices 22:24 Coping with Loss and Finding Purpose 24:18 The Role of Anger in Athletic Drive 26:36 Founding Pearls of Life Charity 31:17 Dispelling Myths About Organ Donation 37:02 Meeting the Donor Family 39:55 Reflecting on Legacy and Spirit Animals Discover More: https://project44.org/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44

    43 min
  5. 02/18/2025

    Jim Sorgi and Joey Vandever on ProTeam Tactical's Mission

    In this episode of 'Finding 44,' Krissi and Larra chat with former professional athletes Jim Sorgi and Joey Vandever, who have found a new purpose post-retirement by launching ProTeam Tactical.  ProTeam Tactical aims to provide elite sports performance-level care to first responders. Inspired by their personal experiences and family ties to the first responder community, Jim and Joey discuss the lack of adequate support services available and their journey to address these needs through both physical and mental health care.  They highlight the holistic approach of ProTeam Tactical and the significance of the newly launched ProTeam Foundation, aimed at making these services accessible despite financial constraints.  Jim and Joey touch on their personal transitions from sports to business, the overwhelming response from the first responder community, and the life-saving impact their services have already had. Choosing to show up for others is what Finding 44 is all about, and Jim and Joey are great examples of using their platform to make a difference. 00:00 Introduction to Finding 44 00:19 Meet Jim Sorgi and Joey Vandever 00:42 The Inspiration Behind Pro Team Tactical 01:24 Jim and Joey's Transition from Sports to Business 02:08 Supporting First Responders: The Athletic Model 05:14 The Importance of Mental and Physical Health 15:18 The Foundation and Future Goals 18:02 Personal Stories and Influences 22:57 The Impact and Expansion of Pro Team Tactical 25:16 Challenges and Future of First Responder Support 36:44 How to Get Involved and Final Thoughts Discover More: https://project44.org/ https://www.proteamtactical.com/ Follow Us @joinproject44 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joinproject44/ Facebook: Project 44

    40 min

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
2 Ratings

About

This is Finding 44, a new podcast created by Project 44, spotlighting champions for change.  In this series, we'll talk to public figures, thought leaders, athletes, coaches, and more, who are doing great things in their community, both in and outside of whatever arena they happen to play in. We'll explore our guests' successes on and off the court or field, favorite foods, funny memories, places to visit, and more. But we think our guests' impressive accomplishments in their line of work and stellar local recommendations are only outdone by their selfless willingness to give back to the communities around them.  Inspired by the late Andrew Smith, wearing number 44 for the Butler Bulldogs, Project 44 is on a mission to create a culture of yes, where, whatever the cause, others are inspired to act in support of something bigger than themselves and utilize their platform for the benefit of the greater good. Follow along on our journey to find other inspiring 44s as we shine a light on their incredible impact.  This is Finding 44. Spotlighting champions for change. Finding 44 is an opportunity to shine a light on those who shine their light on causes important to them. We talk to masters of the “pay it forward” mentality, who work tirelessly in their personal and professional lives, to be the change they want to see. About The Host Larra Overton is the host of Finding 44, as well as host, reporter and executive producer for the Indianapolis Colts. Appearing on TV, radio, podcasts, and Colts.com, Larra joined the Emmy Award-winning production team following impressive stints in Indianapolis and Louisville broadcast news. As a former D1 athlete for IU Track, she also works closely with USA Track & Field. Larra has been recognized with six Emmy Awards for her work as both a reporter and producer. Guests like World Champion Brad Stevens, collegiate and professional athletes, and civic and business leaders on the forefront of philanthropy and community engagement share their passions and personal journeys to becoming leaders from the front office to the front lines. About Project 44 Launched in 2016, Project 44 was created in honor of the late Andrew Smith. Wearing the #44, Andrew was beloved, standout member of Butler’s two-time NCAA Finals basketball team. On January 12, 2016, at the age of25, Andrew passed away following a two-year battle with cancer. Committed to carrying out Andrew’s selfless work, Project 44’s mission is to save lives through bone marrow and blood stem cell donation. Focused on education, awareness, and advocacy for the national bone marrow registry, Project 44 has been working since its inception to build mainstream awareness and willingness to support the registry, and cultivate a culture of “Yes!” where all patients needing a life-saving cure have an available match on the registry. Mission: To save lives through bone marrow and blood stem cell donation Vision: To cultivate a society where every patient needing a bone marrow transplant has a match and a fighting chance at life. Objectives: Education, Awareness + Advocacy

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