Airey Bros.'s Radio

Airey Bros. Radio

Airey Bros Radio is the #1 podcast for Wrestling, Cross Country & Track & Field athletes chasing opportunities at the HS, NAIA, JUCO, NCAA DII, DIII & D1 levels. Hosted by brothers Rich & Jimi Airey, we do the legwork so you don’t have to. Our mission: spotlight programs, coaches & stories overlooked by the mainstream. From high school dynasties to national championship programs, we bring you recruiting insights, culture deep-dives, underdog journeys & the knowledge we wish we had growing up. 🎧 Weekly live shows & highlights | 🔗 IG @aireybrosradio | Spotify & Apple Podcasts – Airey Bros Radio

  1. 450: Building a Wrestling Program from Scratch at Andrew College | Coach Billy Gordy on JUCO to NAIA, Recruiting & Southern Wrestling Growth

    3D AGO

    450: Building a Wrestling Program from Scratch at Andrew College | Coach Billy Gordy on JUCO to NAIA, Recruiting & Southern Wrestling Growth

    Today on Airey Bros Radio Episode 450, we step back on the mat with Coach Billy Gordy, Head Wrestling Coach at Andrew College, one of the fastest-rising programs in the NJCAA and NAIA wrestling landscape. In just TWO seasons, Coach Gordy has: Built a program from the ground upProduced NJCAA All-AmericansAchieved a Top 15 national finishQualified all 10 weight classes for nationalsWon a district championship in year oneNow, Andrew College is making a major move—transitioning from NJCAA to NAIA competition, positioning itself as a rising force in Southern collegiate wrestling. We dive into:What it takes to build a college wrestling program from scratchThe realities of JUCO wrestling vs NAIA vs NCAARecruiting in Georgia, Florida, and the SoutheastThe impact of opportunity, culture, and belief in athlete developmentWhy “scared money don’t make money” is the mindset behind successCreating meaningful college experiences beyond wins and lossesThis episode is packed with insight for:Wrestlers looking for the right college fitParents navigating the recruiting processCoaches building programs at any levelAthletes overlooked by the D1 spotlight🎧 If you're looking for opportunity, growth, and real pathways in college wrestling—this is the episode you need. ☕ Fueled by Black Sheep Endurance Coaching🏃‍♂️ Helping athletes push beyond limits: https://www.blacksheependurance.com/ 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, hit the bell, and join the conversation in the live chat. Let’s go!🌟 Follow & Support Airey Bros Radio! 🌟👉 Subscribe on YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@Aireybros 🎥🔥 👉 Follow us on Instagram: @aireybrosradio 📸💬 👉 Explore Rich's Ultra Marathon Coaching: Black Sheep Endurance 🏃‍♂️ https://www.blacksheependurance.com/💪 ☕ Feeling Generous? Buy Us a Coffee!Support the show and help keep us caffeinated: https://buymeacoffee.com/aireybros ⏱️ SHOW NOTES / TIMESTAMPS  0:00 – ABR mission: spotlighting overlooked programs  2:06 – Show intro + Coach Billy Gordy introduction Andrew College’s rapid rise + national success 3:05 – Building a program from scratch Top 20 → Top 15 national finish in two years 5:07 – Origin story: how Coach Gordy found wrestling From 92 lbs freshman → lifelong wrestler 7:18 – When coaching became the path From high school dream → college coaching career 9:00 – Academic journey & leadership development  9:42 – Year 2 as a head coach: expectations vs reality  11:46 – Wrestling growth in the South (Georgia focus)  12:07 – Only JUCO program in the Southeast 17-hour travel for conference tournaments 12:48 – Transition from NJCAA → NAIA explained 14:24 – New NAIA conference + competition level  15:26 – Recruiting impact of moving to NAIA 17:02 – “Scared money don’t make money” mindset  17:22 – Geography: Southwest Georgia recruiting base 18:00 – High school wrestling hotbeds in Georgia  20:59 – What Andrew College offers student-athletes Facilities, academics, and admin support 22:46 – 98% athlete campus culture  23:27 – Retention & building relationships with athletes  25:12 – Recruiting philosophy: one-on-one relationships 27:32 – Transition from assistant → head coach  30:38 – Experience wrestling in NCWA  32:07 – Why NCWA is underrated  35:35 – NAIA advantages (roster depth & opportunities)  37:16 – Building depth and competition within roster  38:45 – Future vision: expanding program opportunities  40:28 – Program growth: enrollment & expansion  41:03 – Core philosophy: building men first Father, husband, education, then wrestling 43:00 – Measuring success beyond wins 45:18 – Why Andrew College is a unique opportunity  47:17 – Wrestling events outside the box (brewery duel)  49:24 – Future: wrestling at Atlanta Braves stadium  🎤 FINAL FOUR (ABR SIGNATURE) 49:44 – Coffee habit: black coffee “built different” 50:37 – Daily ritual: confidence mindset routine 51:18 – Books: “Know Yourself as a Coach” + habits 52:10 – Music: NBA YoungBoy in the wrestling room 53:08 – Guilty pleasure: chicken biscuits + Baja Blast

    54 min
  2. ABR 449: Building a Championship Culture at University of Wisconsin–La Crosse Wrestling | Coach Dave Malecek on D3 Power, Recruiting Truths

    6D AGO

    ABR 449: Building a Championship Culture at University of Wisconsin–La Crosse Wrestling | Coach Dave Malecek on D3 Power, Recruiting Truths

    Tonight on Airey Bros Radio Episode 449, we go belly-to-belly with Coach Dave Malecek, Head Wrestling Coach at the University of Wisconsin–La Crosse—one of the premier NCAA Division III wrestling programs in the country. Coach Malecek just wrapped up his 20th season leading UWL Wrestling, highlighted by a 2nd place finish at the 2026 NCAA Division III Wrestling Championships, tying the best finish in program history. A multi-time NWCA National Coach of the Year and Hall of Fame inductee, Coach Malecek shares elite-level insights into:Building a championship culture in college wrestlingThe reality of D1 vs D2 vs D3 recruitingThe impact of the transfer portal and NIL eraDeveloping athletes over time vs “instant starters”The importance of team culture, patience, and long-term growthLessons from coaching All-Americans, national champions, and late bloomersWe also dive into the crossover between wrestling, cross country, and track & field, mental toughness, and how elite programs sustain success year after year.This episode is a must-listen for:Wrestlers, runners, and student-athletesParents navigating the recruiting processCoaches building programs at any levelAnyone chasing long-term athletic development🎧 If you're looking for real insight into collegiate athletics beyond the spotlight of Division I—this is it. ☕ Fueled by Black Sheep Endurance Coaching🏃‍♂️ Helping athletes push beyond limits 🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe, hit the bell, and join the conversation!🌟 Follow & Support Airey Bros Radio! 🌟 👉 Subscribe on YouTube 🎥🔥 👉 Follow us on Instagram: @aireybrosradio 📸💬 👉 Explore Rich's Ultra Marathon Coaching: Black Sheep Endurance 🏃‍♂️ https://www.blacksheependurance.com/💪 ☕ Feeling Generous? Buy Us a Coffee!Support the show and help keep us caffeinated ⏱️ SHOW NOTES / TIMESTAMPS 0:00 – Intro: Why Airey Bros Radio exists / Mission behind ABR, spotlighting overlooked programs & athletes 1:40 – Recruiting & exposure gaps in college sports / Why D2, D3, NAIA & JUCO deserve more attention 2:06 – Coach Malecek joins the show / Family background + connection to cross country 3:30 – Cross country vs wrestling mindset / “Dark places” + mental toughness crossover 6:21 – Official intro + accolades / 20+ years at UWL, national success, Hall of Fame 9:40 – Iowa wrestling roots & origin story / Growing up in Osage, IA — wrestling culture 14:20 – Mentorship from Coach Jim Miller / From rival to mentor → shaping coaching philosophy 16:40 – When did coaching become the path? 17:20 – Building a program at UWL / Culture, alumni involvement, development model 19:00 – Self-doubt, pressure & leadership moments / Handling adversity at NCAA Championships 20:46 – Rise of D3 wrestling parity / Programs like TCNJ, Johnson & Wales, Roanoke 23:00 – Transfer portal impact in wrestling / D1 athletes moving to D2/D3 24:30 – “D1 or bust” mentality (truth vs reality) / Why fit matters more than division 28:30 – Building vs buying a roster / Development vs transfers philosophy 31:00 – Keeping non-starters motivated / Patience → All-American breakthroughs 33:30 – 2026 NCAA season recap / Injuries, adversity, and team chemistry 36:00 – The “bleach blonde hair” story / Team culture, confidence, and momentum 39:00 – Coaching evolution over 30+ years / From control → trust & adaptability 41:00 – Appreciating success & staying present 44:00 – Planning for next season / Reflection, growth, and long-term vision 45:30 – What it takes to win a national title 48:00 – Culture of excellence at UWL athletics 50:50 – Coaching daughters in cross country 54:30 – Being a coach vs being a dad 56:20 – Final Four (ABR Signature Segment)☕ Coffee habits 🧠 Daily routines 🎧 Podcasts & books (Atomic Habits) 🍺 Guilty pleasure (Spotted Cow) 1:05:50 – Closing thoughts & outro

    1h 2m
  3. Airey Bros Radio #448 | Bob DeVries (NMHU) — Building a D2 Cross Country Powerhouse, Altitude Training & Recruiting the Right Athletes

    APR 7

    Airey Bros Radio #448 | Bob DeVries (NMHU) — Building a D2 Cross Country Powerhouse, Altitude Training & Recruiting the Right Athletes

    Airey Bros Radio Episode 448 features Coach Bob DeVries, Head Cross Country & Track & Field Coach at New Mexico Highlands University (NMHU), diving into over 30 years of sustained success in NCAA Division II cross country. Coach DeVries has built one of the most unique and consistent distance programs in the country — producing NCAA All-Americans, national contenders, and multiple top-10 finishes, all while operating without a traditional men’s track & field program. In this episode, we break down:How NMHU built a championship-level cross country programRecruiting strategies for NCAA Division II distance runningTraining and competing at high altitude in Las Vegas, New MexicoDeveloping athletes into All-Americans and national-level performersThe importance of culture, buy-in, and long-term developmentWhat type of athletes succeed in the RMAC and NCAA D2Whether you're a high school runner, college recruit, coach, or parent, this episode provides valuable insight into college cross country recruiting, training philosophy, and program building at the NCAA Division II level.🔥 🎙️ About Airey Bros RadioAirey Bros Radio is your go-to podcast for college wrestling, cross country, and track & field across NCAA D1, D2, D3, NAIA, and NJCAA. We spotlight programs and opportunities to help athletes find the right fit at the next level. 📲 Follow NMHU Track & Field: @nmhutrack 🎥 Subscribe: https://www.youtube.com/@Aireybros 🎧 Listen on Spotify & Apple Podcasts ☕ Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/aireybros ⏱️ PODCAST SHOW NOTES  0:00 – Show Intro | Airey Bros Radio x NMHU Cross CountryABR intro, mission, and spotlighting NCAA D2 opportunitiesWelcoming Coach Bob DeVries1:30 – Coach Bob DeVries Journey to NMHUCoaching background and 30+ year careerBuilding a long-term program in NCAA Division II5:45 – Building a Cross Country Powerhouse at NMHUProgram growth and national successMultiple NCAA top-10 finishes10:20 – Coaching Philosophy & LongevityEvolution as a coach over decadesAdapting to different generations of athletes15:10 – Recruiting Strategy in NCAA Division IIIdentifying the right athletes for NMHUWhy fit, culture, and mindset matter more than times20:45 – Training Without a Full Men’s Track ProgramUnique structure of NMHUHow cross country becomes the central focus25:30 – Developing All-Americans & National-Level AthletesTraining progression and athlete developmentTurning potential into performance30:50 – Training at Altitude (Las Vegas, New Mexico)Benefits of altitude for endurance athletesAdapting training for performance gains36:15 – RMAC Competition & NCAA D2 LandscapeCompeting in one of the toughest D2 conferencesWhat it takes to succeed nationally42:40 – Culture, Buy-In & Team IdentityBuilding a championship cultureLeadership, accountability, and team standards48:20 – What Type of Athlete Thrives at NMHUPersonality, mindset, and work ethicWho should consider NMHU for cross country54:10 – Advice for Recruits & Student-AthletesNavigating the recruiting processChoosing the right college fit1:00:30 – Final Four (ABR Signature Segment)Coffee habits ☕Daily routinesBooks, podcasts, musicGuilty pleasures

    1h 6m
  4. ABR 447: Building a Championship Culture at Colorado Mesa | Coach Travis Floeck on Recruiting, RMAC Success & Athlete Development

    APR 3

    ABR 447: Building a Championship Culture at Colorado Mesa | Coach Travis Floeck on Recruiting, RMAC Success & Athlete Development

    Episode 447 of Airey Bros Radio features Coach Travis Floeck, Director of Cross Country and Track & Field at Colorado Mesa University. With over 20 years of coaching experience—including 14 years at the NCAA Division I level with Idaho and Oregon State—Coach Floeck brings elite-level insight into building championship programs, developing All-Americans, and recruiting high-character student-athletes. Since taking over at Colorado Mesa in 2024, Floeck has led immediate success: • RMAC Indoor Championships podium finish (Men 3rd) • NCAA Division II All-American (Teo Casados – 200m) • 45 new Top-10 marks in program historyIn this episode, we dive into:Building a winning culture in NCAA Division II track & fieldCoaching Olympians and NCAA All-AmericansRecruiting philosophy: talent vs. characterAthlete development, injury management & long-term growthRMAC competition and national-level standardsWhy Grand Junction, Colorado is a hidden gem for runners🎙️ Whether you're a high school athlete, college recruit, coach, or fan of cross country and track & field, this episode is packed with insights on what it takes to succeed at the next level.🔥 Follow Airey Bros Radio YouTube Spotify ☕ Powered by Black Sheep Endurance Coaching 💙 Support the show ⏱️ TIMESTAMP SHOW NOTES 0:00 – ABR Origins & MissionFrom radio roots to a recruiting-focused podcastHelping athletes “get out of their bubble” and find the right fit2:17 – Show Intro + ABR PhilosophyValue-for-value modelPowered by Black Sheep Endurance3:00 – Coach Travis Floeck Introduction20+ years coaching experienceD1 background (Idaho, Oregon State)Early success at Colorado Mesa4:10 – Recruiting & Contact InfoHow athletes and families can connectSocial media + podcast plug (Just Athletics)5:30 – Coaching Roots & Early CareerSouthern Oregon backgroundLane CC opportunity at age 259:30 – Origin Story in RunningFrom multi-sport athlete to 800m state championDiscovering talent through lifestyle and environment12:30 – Transition into CoachingInfluence of running campsNike sports marketing experience15:00 – Coaching Philosophy & Athlete DevelopmentEliminating regret for athletesProcess-driven coaching approach18:20 – Lessons from D1 Coaching (Oregon State & Idaho)Athlete connection and trustBuilding programs from the ground up22:00 – Culture & Recruiting PhilosophyCore values first, talent secondImportance of character, academics, and team fit24:30 – Building Culture at Colorado MesaTransitioning into a new programGaining athlete buy-in through communication28:30 – Managing a Full Track & Field ProgramBalancing all event groupsLeading with a strong staff29:20 – Evaluating RecruitsTalking to high school coachesIdentifying red flags and intangibles33:00 – Evolution of High School CoachingImpact of technology, clinics, and podcasts34:30 – RMAC Competition LevelOne of the deepest conferences in NCAA DIICompeting against national-caliber programs37:20 – 5-Year Vision for Colorado MesaBuilding a complete programRaising distance performance39:00 – Athlete Breakthrough StoriesHuge performance jumps through health + belief43:40 – Indoor Season RecapAll-American performancesFreshmen breaking school records46:30 – Outdoor Season PreviewFast turnaround from indoorNational-level ambitions48:00 – Scheduling PhilosophyBalancing local meets vs elite competitionExposure to national-level racing50:50 – Training at Altitude (Grand Junction)Benefits of 4,500 ft elevationAdjustments in training approach51:50 – Recruiting Strategy (Domestic + International)Casting a wide netFinding overlooked talent globally53:30 – Grand Junction Perception vs RealityBreaking stigmaOutdoor training paradise57:15 – Final Four 🔥Coffee habits ☕Daily routines & sleep optimizationPodcasts, music, and booksGuilty pleasure: ice cream 🍦1:09:30 – Closing ThoughtsShoutout Colorado MesaPreview of next episode

    1h 10m
  5. Airey Bros Radio Ep. 446 | Josh Nolan (Northern State Wrestling) – Building an NCAA D2 Program, All-Americans, Recruiting & Culture

    MAR 31

    Airey Bros Radio Ep. 446 | Josh Nolan (Northern State Wrestling) – Building an NCAA D2 Program, All-Americans, Recruiting & Culture

    Episode 446 of Airey Bros Radio features Josh Nolan, Head Wrestling Coach at Northern State University, breaking down his first season leading the Wolves wrestling program in NCAA Division II. In year one, Nolan led Northern State to an 8–5 record, Top-25 NWCA ranking, and NCAA D2 All-American finish from Rudy Lopez (149 lbs)—a strong foundation for one of the rising programs in the Northern Sun Intercollegiate Conference (NSIC). A former NCAA Division II All-American at San Francisco State, Nolan has coached Fargo All-Americans, USA Wrestling standouts, and national-level athletes, bringing a deep developmental perspective to college wrestling.This episode is a must-listen for:High school wrestlers navigating the recruiting processParents looking for the right college fitCoaches building culture and long-term developmentFans of NCAA Division II wrestling🎯 Topics Covered:Taking over Northern State Wrestling in year oneBuilding a championship culture in Aberdeen, South DakotaCoaching NCAA All-AmericansRecruiting philosophy: “Do you love wrestling?”Club coaching vs college coachingNCAA D2 wrestling landscape & NSIC competitionDeveloping athletes on and off the mat💡 As always, Airey Bros Radio shines a light on programs and opportunities across NCAA, NAIA, and NJCAA levels—giving athletes the insight we wish we had during the recruiting process. 🔗 FOLLOW & SUPPORT ABR 🎥 YouTube 🎧 Spotify 📸 Instagram: @aireybrosradio ☕ Support the show 🏃‍♂️ Fueled by Black Sheep Endurance Coaching ⏱️ SHOW NOTES + TIMESTAMPS 0:00 – Why Airey Bros Radio Exists - Recruiting insight, breaking the “D1 or bust” mindset, and spotlighting overlooked opportunities in college athletics. 1:37 – ABR Show Open (Howdy & Aloha) Value-for-value model + mission to highlight hidden gems in college sports. 2:28 – Introducing Coach Josh Nolan / First-year head coach, 8–5 season, Top-25 ranking, NCAA D2 All-American (Rudy Lopez). 3:10 – Where to Find Northern State Wrestling / Instagram, resources, camps, and recruiting touchpoints. 4:01 – Small World Connections (ABR Throughline) From South Carolina to South Dakota—how ABR finds guests. 7:20 – Nolan’s Wrestling Origin Story Growing up in Quincy, CA → influence of coaches → going all-in. 10:24 – Recruiting Journey → San Francisco State Late development, exposure, and finding the right college fit. 11:26 – Transition into Coaching From PE major to high school coach → GA at Northern State. 13:10 – Coaching Journey Across the Country South Dakota → Texas → club wrestling → Georgia → back to Northern. 17:05 – First Season Recap (Nationals Run) 3 national qualifiers, 1 All-American, strong team growth. 21:42 – Biggest Surprise as a First-Year Head Coach Team buy-in, culture continuity, and leadership growth. 25:29 – Club Coaching vs College Coaching Why 10 years in club wrestling prepared him for college success. 27:56 – The CEO Role of a College Coach Balancing admin work, coaching, and program leadership. 30:23 – Recruiting Philosophy “Do you love wrestling?” → culture fit over everything. 34:00 – Northern State Wrestling Culture Developing great athletes, students, and people. 35:45 – Academics at Northern State Business, pre-med, exercise science, education programs. 37:04 – Life in Aberdeen, South Dakota Tight-knit community, strong fan support, hidden gem environment. 41:08 – Offseason Training Plan Freestyle/Greco, US Open, U23 Nationals, camps. 43:26 – Importance of Goal Setting “Keep a date on the calendar” mentality. 44:49 – Looking Ahead to Next Season: Growth mindset, returning athletes, incoming recruits. 46:07 – Spring Break + Reset, Recovery, family time, planning ahead. 47:23 – Wrestling Family Life, Coaching youth through college athletes—full circle development. 49:03 – Recruiting Red Flags & Mindset, Loving the process vs loving winning. 50:38 – One-Class vs Multi-Class State Debate / California vs other states—impact on development. 53:13 – Final Four Questions (ABR Signature) ☕ Coffee habits, 📓 Daily routine (reading, journaling, gratitude), 🎧 Books/podcasts (John Wooden, wrestling pods), ⛳ Guilty pleasure: bucket golf 58:36 – Closing Remarks, Season recap, appreciation, and what’s next for Northern State Wrestling.

    59 min
  6. John Frazier Texas State Track & Field | Building a Championship Program, Recruiting Standards & Sun Belt Sweep | Airey Bros Radio Ep. 445

    MAR 27

    John Frazier Texas State Track & Field | Building a Championship Program, Recruiting Standards & Sun Belt Sweep | Airey Bros Radio Ep. 445

    Texas State Track & Field just made history — and we’re going BELLY TO BELLY with the man behind it. On Episode 445 of Airey Bros Radio, we’re joined by John Frazier, Director of Track & Field & Cross Country at Texas State University, fresh off a historic Sun Belt Indoor Championship sweep — winning both the men’s and women’s titles for the first time in program history.Coach Frazier brings 30+ years of elite coaching experience, with stops at UCLA, Tennessee, Arizona, and Florida, coaching Olympians, NCAA Champions, and All-Americans — and now building a national contender in San Marcos, Texas.💥 In this episode, we dive into:Building a championship culture at Texas StateThe Bobcats’ rise to national relevanceRecruiting philosophy + international recruiting strategyWhat it takes to compete at the NCAA levelCoaching elite throwers and multi-event athletesStaff culture, leadership, and program developmentThe future of college track & field (dual meets, team scoring, NIL era)🎯 Whether you're a recruit, coach, parent, or track & field fan, this is a must-listen conversation on how elite programs are built from the ground up. 🎧 Listen Now on All Platforms: Spotify | Apple Podcasts | YouTube🏃‍♂️ Follow Airey Bros Radio: YouTube / Spotify Instagram: @aireybrosradio ☕ Support the Show (Value for Value) 🔥 Fueled by Black Sheep Endurance ⏱️ Show Notes  0:00 — ABR Origins & MissionJUCO All-American backgrounds (XC & Wrestling)Why ABR exists: spotlight overlooked programs + recruiting transparency1:20 — Helping Athletes Find the Right FitGoal: connect athletes (especially NJ) with college opportunities“There’s a place for everyone” mindset2:23 — Show Intro + Guest AnnouncementJohn Frazier joins ABRTexas State historic Sun Belt Indoor sweep3:16 — Coach Frazier Background30+ years coachingUCLA, Tennessee, Arizona, FloridaOlympians + NCAA Champions coached4:00 — Why Texas State WorksAdministrative support + coaching freedomBuilding culture without “red tape”5:30 — Setting Recruiting StandardsRejecting average talent expectationsAdopting elite standards (Georgia model)6:50 — Recruiting PhilosophyFind your level: JUCO, NAIA, NCAAFocus on NCAA scorers, not just conference depth8:00 — Branding Texas StateIdentity shift (black uniforms, culture change)Creating a recognizable program image10:00 — What Recruits Should Look ForAcademics firstLocation, environment, coaching staffFit over hype13:20 — Coach Frazier Origin StoryFrom middle school shot put to UCLA“Track nerd” mentality + studying programs17:00 — Coaching JourneyUC Irvine → Humboldt → Tennessee → UCLA → Texas StateFamily decisions shaping career path23:00 — Becoming a DirectorWhy Texas State was the right fitLeadership + program control evolution25:00 — Building a Staff CultureHiring former athletesAlignment in coaching philosophyCompetitive but collaborative staff30:00 — Director Role in Cross CountrySupporting distance programDeveloping walk-ons into scholarship athletes34:00 — Dual Meets vs Modern TrackImportance of head-to-head competitionFuture of team-based championships37:00 — Sun Belt Championship BreakthroughBuilding depth across eventsAthletes stepping up in key moments40:00 — Recruiting StrategyTexas talent + international athletesCompeting with Texas A&M / Texas pipelines43:30 — Throwers Training Philosophy4–5 days/week structureIndividualized sessions + event-specific focus48:00 — Coaching PhilosophyKnowing every athleteBuilding trust + presence at meets50:00 — Multi-Event StrategyMaximizing scoring potentialEvent crossover when beneficial52:30 — Coffee + Daily HabitsStrong black coffee ☕Faith, organization, and preparation mindset

    58 min
  7. EP. 444 | Mark Fairley (Taylor University XC/Track) | NAIA National Champion 5K, Building Liberty Dynasty & Leading Taylor’s Rise

    MAR 24

    EP. 444 | Mark Fairley (Taylor University XC/Track) | NAIA National Champion 5K, Building Liberty Dynasty & Leading Taylor’s Rise

    Welcome back to Airey Bros Radio — your #1 resource for college wrestling, cross country, and track & field programs across the country. On Episode 444, we went belly to belly with Coach Mark Fairley, Head Men’s & Women’s Cross Country Coach and Head Distance Coach at Taylor University. Fresh off the 2026 NAIA Indoor Track & Field National Championships, Coach Fairley breaks down Taylor’s national success, including: 🏆 Jaynie Halterman — NAIA 5K National Champion ⚡ Championship Record — 15:52 🔥 Outstanding Performer of the Meet ⭐ Multiple NAIA All-Americans 📈 Taylor Men finish Top 15 NationallyBefore Taylor, Fairley spent 8 years at Liberty University (NCAA D1) helping build a powerhouse program with 27 conference championships across XC, indoor, and outdoor track. A former NCAA Division III National Champion (Steeplechase), Fairley now brings elite experience, culture, and development to one of the fastest-rising programs in the NAIA.🎯 Topics Covered:Coach Fairley’s journey from athlete to national-level coachBuilding a championship culture at Liberty UniversityTransitioning into leadership at Taylor UniversityInside the NAIA Indoor National ChampionshipsDeveloping All-Americans and national championsRecruiting philosophy in 2026 (fit, culture, development)The future of Taylor Cross Country & Track💡 Why We Do This: At Airey Bros Radio, we shine a light on the programs and coaches we wish we had access to coming up. If you or someone you know is looking for the right fit at the next level — this is the show for you. 🔔 Subscribe, leave a review, and share with someone chasing their next opportunity. ☕ Support the show: https://buymeacoffee.com/aireybros 🏃‍♂️ Black Sheep Endurance Coaching: https://www.blacksheependurance.com/ ⏱️ TIMESTAMPS 0:00 — ABR Show Intro (Howdy & Aloha ) Airey Bros Radio opening, mission of spotlighting college XC, track & field, and wrestling programs. 1:45 — Guest Introduction: Mark Fairley (Taylor University) Overview of Taylor XC/Track + recent NAIA Indoor National Championship success. 4:30 — Athlete Background & Running Career NCAA Division III National Champion (Steeplechase) → competitive roots and transition into coaching. 8:50 — Getting Into Coaching / Early coaching experiences, influences, and lessons learned starting out. 13:20 — Liberty University (NCAA D1) Experience 8-year run at Liberty → 27 conference championships across XC, indoor, and outdoor track. 18:40 — Building a Championship Culture / What separates good programs from great ones — standards, accountability, and consistency. 24:10 — Coaching Philosophy & Athlete Development / Long-term development, maximizing potential, and building complete student-athletes. 29:30 — Transition to Taylor University / Taking over the program, vision for the future, and building momentum. 35:00 — NAIA Indoor National Championships Recap (2026) Jaynie Halterman’s 5K national title Championship record (15:52) Outstanding Performer of the Meet Multiple All-Americans + team success 43:20 — Program Growth & National Impact Taylor men finishing Top 15 nationally + what that means for recruiting and exposure. 48:30 — Recruiting Philosophy (2026 Landscape) Finding the right fit, culture-driven recruiting, and developing athletes vs chasing hype. 54:10 — What It Takes to Win at the National Level Daily habits, mindset, and consistency required to compete for titles. 1:00:45 — Building the Future at Taylor XC/Track Program goals, long-term vision, and sustaining success. 1:06:30 — Advice for Recruits & Student-Athletes What coaches are really looking for + how to stand out in recruiting. 1:10:15 — Closing Thoughts + ABR Outro Final message from Coach Fairley + Airey Bros Radio wrap-up. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYSChampionship programs are built on culture, not just talentDevelopment > hype in recruitingConsistency and daily habits drive national-level successTaylor University is a rising NAIA powerhouse in XC/TrackLiberty’s success model = transferable blueprint for winning programs

    57 min
  8. ABR 443: Butler XC/Track Coach Matt Roe on Building Big East Champions, Developing All-Americans & Recruiting Distance Talent

    MAR 20

    ABR 443: Butler XC/Track Coach Matt Roe on Building Big East Champions, Developing All-Americans & Recruiting Distance Talent

    Airey Bros Radio Episode 443 features Matt Roe, Head Coach of Butler University Track & Field and Cross Country, for a deep dive into one of the most respected NCAA Division I distance running programs in the country. Originally streamed live on March 5, 2026, this episode explores how Coach Roe has built Butler into a consistent force in Big East cross country and track & field, developing athletes into conference champions, NCAA finalists, All-Americans, and national-caliber competitors. Since taking over the program in 2007, Roe has helped shape Butler into a premier destination for serious student-athletes looking for the right balance of elite academics, team culture, long-term development, and championship-level performance. In this conversation, we cover:Coach Matt Roe’s path from standout runner at the University of Portland to NCAA Division I head coach How Butler has won 4 of the last 6 Big East Men’s Cross Country titles What Roe looks for in recruits, including multi-sport athletes, untapped potential, and “diamonds in the rough” Why development, biomechanics, toughness, and culture matter more than flashy PRs How Butler balances high academic standards with elite athletic success Jesse Hamlin’s rise and Butler’s current momentum in indoor track and outdoor track The long-game philosophy behind building nationally competitive men’s and women’s distance programs Systems over motivation, coaching psychology, and preparing athletes to “go break things” on race dayThis is a must-listen episode for distance runners, cross country athletes, track & field coaches, recruits, parents, and fans of NCAA running who want an inside look at what it takes to build a winning program at the Division I level. 🎧 Now streaming on all podcast platforms: Spotify, Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and more ☕ Support Airey Bros Radio

    1h 19m
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4.9
out of 5
38 Ratings

About

Airey Bros Radio is the #1 podcast for Wrestling, Cross Country & Track & Field athletes chasing opportunities at the HS, NAIA, JUCO, NCAA DII, DIII & D1 levels. Hosted by brothers Rich & Jimi Airey, we do the legwork so you don’t have to. Our mission: spotlight programs, coaches & stories overlooked by the mainstream. From high school dynasties to national championship programs, we bring you recruiting insights, culture deep-dives, underdog journeys & the knowledge we wish we had growing up. 🎧 Weekly live shows & highlights | 🔗 IG @aireybrosradio | Spotify & Apple Podcasts – Airey Bros Radio

Information

  • Creator
    Airey Bros. Radio
  • Years Active
    2012 - 2026
  • Episodes
    369
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Copyright Airey Bros. Radio
  • Show Website
    Airey Bros.'s Radio

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