The Gametime Guru

What makes soccer more than just a sport? In this episode of The Gametime Guru, I have the chance to chat with Franklin Foer, author of How Soccer Explains the World: An Unlikely Theory of Globalization, to explore how soccer reflects culture, identity, politics, religion, class, and globalization across the world. From the tribal nature of fandom to the deeper meaning behind clubs like Barcelona and Newcastle United, this conversation shows why soccer can reveal so much about the societies that surround it. Franklin shares how his travels and research shaped the book, why soccer became the perfect lens for understanding the modern world, and how the game has evolved over the past two decades. Shane and Franklin also discuss why soccer fandom feels so different in other countries compared to the United States, how the sport is growing in America ahead of the 2026 World Cup, and what readers can learn from looking at sports through a wider cultural lens. This episode covers: Why soccer helps explain globalization The connection between sports, identity, and tribalism The difference between American sports culture and global soccer culture When fandom creates community and when it can turn dark Why clubs can represent far more than just a game How soccer is growing in the United States ahead of the 2026 World Cup If you are a fan of soccer, sports history, world culture, or the deeper meaning behind why people care so passionately about sports, this is an episode you will not want to miss. Get Franklin Foer's book here: https://www.amazon.com/How-Soccer-Explains-World-Globalization-ebook

Will Dunkle is back on The Gametime Guru. Six years after his first appearance on the show, Will returns to talk about how his fighting journey has evolved from MMA into the world of bare knuckle boxing. In this episode, Will shares what makes bare knuckle such a unique and dangerous combat sport, how he prepares mentally and physically for each fight, and what fans can expect as he gets ready for his Fusion Fight League matchup in Great Falls, Montana. We talk about the mindset it takes to compete in a sport where every mistake matters, why Will embraces fighting in hostile territory, and how he uses losses as lessons that build character. He also breaks down his southpaw style, his trap-setting approach inside the ring, and the faith-driven mindset that keeps him grounded through the highs and lows of combat sports. Will also discusses his upcoming bare knuckle fight against Dallas Davis on April 11, 2026, why this matchup matters, and how a win could elevate his position in the bare knuckle scene. In this episode, we cover: • Will Dunkle's transition from MMA to bare knuckle boxing • What makes bare knuckle different from other combat sports • Fight mindset, preparation, and mental toughness • Competing in enemy territory • Learning from losses in combat sports • Faith, discipline, and staying ready • His upcoming Fusion Fight League fight If you enjoy combat sports, underdog stories, and conversations with athletes who are still in the arena putting it all on the line, this episode is for you. Follow Will Dunkle: 208 Underdog on ALL Platforms Fusion Fight League: https://www.instagram.com/fusionfightleague/ This episode is brought to you by Fascia Sticks. Athletes, lifters, and anyone dealing with tightness can benefit from Fascia Sticks to improve mobility and recover smarter. Get yours here: https://fasciasticks.com/GAMETIME15

In Episode 250 of The Gametime Guru Podcast, Shane Larson sits down with Kam Wheeler, coach, business owner, leader, and founder of Warriors Football Club in Idaho. This conversation dives into Kam's sports background, his path into coaching, and the leadership principles that have shaped both his business and his football program. From youth development and team culture to discipline, mentorship, and the impact sports can have on young athletes, this episode is packed with insights for parents, coaches, athletes, and sports fans alike. Kam also shares the vision behind Warriors Football Club, why he felt there was a need for something different in youth football, and how building identity, accountability, and buy-in can help kids grow both on and off the field. The discussion also touches on club football, seven-on-seven, sports culture in Idaho, and the way athletics can prepare people for life and leadership. This episode is brought to you by Aesthreadics.com, creators of customized weightlifting belts for schools, athletic programs, gyms, and personal brands. If you enjoy conversations about sports, leadership, coaching, and personal growth, this episode is for you. Listen now and see sports through a different lens. Follow Kam: Kam Wheeler Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/kam.wheeler/ One Percent Podcast - https://www.instagram.com/one_percent_podcast_/ Website: https://www.kamwheeler.com/

What were you doing at 17 years old? In this episode of The Gametime Guru, Shane Larson sits down with Jamie McCreedy, a 17-year-old podcast host, charity leader, and young man making a real impact through sports, service, and storytelling. Jamie has already interviewed more than 120 athletes and managers, built his own platform, and helped support children through charity efforts connected to sports. From podcasting and football culture in England to organizing fundraising efforts and helping provide gear for kids in Kenya, Jamie's story is a powerful reminder that age does not have to limit purpose. This conversation is packed with perspective for young athletes, parents, coaches, aspiring podcasters, and anyone chasing a big goal. Shane and Jamie dive into: building a podcast from a young age lessons learned from interviewing athletes football culture in England leading charity initiatives through sports consistency, confidence, and belief in yourself why young people should not wait to start making an impact Jamie brings incredible energy and maturity to this conversation, and his story is one that can inspire people of all ages. If you enjoy the show, be sure to follow The Game Time Guru, leave a review, and share this episode with someone who needs to hear it. Sponsor: This episode is brought to you by Aesthreadics Weightlifting Belts. Get your own customizable weightlifting belt for your brand, team, school, or personal training setup at: www.aesthreadics.com Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Jamie McCreedy 01:03 Sponsor Shoutout: Aesthreadics Weightlifting Belts 02:06 Shane's Intro and 9 Years of The Game Time Guru 03:32 Meet Jamie McCreedy 03:55 Life Near London and Supporting Watford 05:23 Football Culture in England 06:42 Shane's Experience with Soccer Culture in Brazil 08:18 Jamie's Podcast Journey Begins 10:47 Shane's Podcast Evolution and Interview Format 12:28 Favorite Interviews and Lessons from Podcasting 15:25 Jamie's Vision for the Future 18:51 How Jamie Started His Charity Work in Kenya 27:20 Advice for Young People with Big Dreams 35:41 Biggest Life Lesson and Final Thoughts Follow The Gametime Guru Weekly interviews with athletes, coaches, sports figures, and inspiring people from around the world to help you see sports through a different lens.

In this episode of The Gametime Guru Podcast, Shane Larson interviews Tom Cillo, a 59-year-old college football player, about resilience, mental toughness, leadership, and chasing dreams later in life. Tom Cillo's story has inspired people around the world. After retiring from a 33-year career, Tom decided to pursue a dream he originally had back in the 1980s: playing college football. Now in his late 50s, he's balancing the physical demands of collegiate athletics, the academic pressure of returning to school after 41 years away from the classroom, and the mental challenge of competing with athletes decades younger than him. In this powerful sports interview, Tom shares how he prepared physically and mentally for college football in his late 50s, what he learned from the intense grind of training camp, and how he pushed through self-doubt, injuries, and the pressures that come with competing at the collegiate level. Tom also talks about earning Dean's List honors, finding his role on the team, and discovering that his journey has inspired thousands of people around the world to pursue their own goals — no matter their age. This episode explores the lessons sports teach us about discipline, leadership, perseverance, athlete mindset, and never giving up on a dream. If you enjoy sports podcasts, athlete interviews, football stories, motivational conversations, and leadership lessons from sports, this is an episode you won't want to miss. Sponsored by Aesthreadics Weight Lifting Belts Today's episode is brought to you by Aesthreadics Weight Lifting Belts. If you're looking for a customized weightlifting belt, Aesthreadics offers high-quality belts that can be designed specifically for your personal brand, sports team, gym, or business. These belts are perfect for: • Athletes building their brand • NIL athletes and college programs • Teams outfitting their weight rooms • Businesses creating custom gear Get your own customized belt today: www.aesthreadics.com About The Gametime Guru Podcast The Gametime Guru Podcast, hosted by Shane Larson, interviews athletes, coaches, and sports figures from around the world to explore the lessons learned through competition. Each episode dives into sports leadership, athlete mindset, resilience, and the life lessons that come from competing at the highest levels. Follow the show on Spotify and Apple Podcasts for weekly interviews with inspiring athletes and sports professionals.

What happens when a young athlete from Australia skips university, invests his savings, and builds a sports brand from scratch? You get Kip Grip, performance grip socks designed for ballers across every sport. In this episode of The Gametime Guru Podcast, host Shane Larson sits down with Kiprian Pacoski, founder and CEO of Kip Grip, to talk about competing in soccer and AFL (Australian Rules Football), launching a physical product business as a young entrepreneur, and the deeply personal mental health mission behind the brand. What you will learn in this episode: What are grip socks and why do athletes use them? Kip Grip grip socks are designed to reduce slippage inside your shoe during sharp cuts and turns, using Coolmax moisture-wicking technology to keep your feet dry and stable during competition. Kiprian walks us through going from 5 to 6 product prototypes to a finished product, why he chose entrepreneurship over college, guerrilla marketing strategies for small sports brands, and how Kip Grip is showing up for youth athletes that the big brands are ignoring. We also get into the mental health mission behind Kip Grip and the phrase "Keep It Pushing," a message Kiprian built into the brand after battling through his own personal hardships. Kip Grip performance grip socks are designed for: Soccer players, basketball players, AFL players, baseball players, runners, and multi-sport athletes. Whether you are a youth athlete, a coach looking to outfit your team with team packages, or a sports entrepreneur learning how to build a brand from the ground up, this episode delivers real value. Connect with Kip Grip: Shop: https://Kip Grip.com.au/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kip_grip/ General Inquiries: support@Kip Grip.com.au Club and Team Inquiries: club@Kip Grip.com.au Find The Gametime Guru Podcast: Search "Gametime Guru" on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts. New episodes drop every Friday at 8AM Eastern. Subscribe so you never miss an interview. If this episode gave you value, leave a review on Apple Podcasts or a rating on Spotify. It helps more athletes, coaches, and sports entrepreneurs find the show.

Former Division 1 athlete Brayden Durfee, owner of 1ONEATHLETICS, joins The Gametime Guru Podcast to break down what it really takes to compete at a high level in track and field — and how those lessons translate into business, leadership, and life. Brayden shares his journey from football at Oregon State to track & field at Boise State, where he competed at the Division 1 level after becoming a 4-time state champion in high school. We dive into the sacrifices he made, the mentors who shaped him, and the mindset required to perform when you only get one shot, because in track, there are no second chances once the gun goes off. In this episode, we talk about: • The reality of speed training (acceleration days, max velocity work, conditioning) • Why visualization is critical for peak performance • How to enter a "flow state" before competition • What to eat and how to prepare on meet day • A powerful failure moment in college, and how Brayden used it as fuel • The mental framework for handling setbacks in sports • Building 1ONEATHLETICS from a garage into a full facility • Leadership lessons that apply far beyond athletics If you're an athlete, coach, parent, or entrepreneur, this conversation will give you a deeper understanding of discipline, resilience, and what it truly means to be "undeniable by design." If you want to work with Brayden and their team, head to: https://www.1oneathletics.com Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/1one.athletics/

In this episode of The Game Time Guru, Shane Larson sits down with professional bare-knuckle fighter Mike "The Marine" Richman for a raw and honest conversation about the fight game—and the mindset behind it. Mike breaks down the unique intensity of fighting in BKFC, why every jab in bare knuckle can change a fight, and how committing to body shots can wear down even the toughest opponents. He shares what it's like competing in front of massive crowds, how he controls his nerves before stepping through the ropes, and the self-affirmations he uses to stay locked in. The conversation goes deeper into adversity—coming back from knockout losses, battling self-doubt, and rebuilding confidence after tough setbacks. Mike opens up about what it takes mentally and physically to stay in the fight game, how he knows when it's time to keep going (or walk away), and the life lessons fighting has taught him that translate directly into business, marriage, and everyday life. If you're an athlete, competitor, or someone chasing big goals, this episode will challenge you to control the chaos, trust your preparation, and remember who you are when things get tough. Subscribe for weekly interviews with sports figures from around the world.

John has built a career designing high performance training spaces and helping athletes, executives, and high achievers raise their standards. We talk about the mindset shift from sports to business, why preparation builds confidence, and why being a great teammate starts with doing your job. This conversation goes deep into discipline, leadership, and the standards it takes to win in any arena. This is a great interview with former Boston College football player turned elite gym designer, trainer, and founder of The Cave. If you are an athlete, coach, parent, or someone building something big, you will take a lot from this one. What we cover in this episode: John's Boston College football journey and the lessons that carried into life after sports The high school grind and why most people end up with regrets The athlete mindset that translates into business and entrepreneurship Why standards matter and how to stop lowering the bar Confidence, fear, and the power of preparation Creating training environments where people feel safe and perform at their best The Cave, John's private gym concept built for elite performance and elite vibes Pattern recognition, problem solving, and building value for life About John Damon: John Damon is a gym designer and performance focused trainer who has designed gyms from 1,000 to 150,000 square feet. He is the founder of The Cave, a private training space built on intentional design, high standards, and a world class experience. Connect with John Damon: Website: https://johndamon.com/ Instagram: @johnddamon

Scott Birnbaum (CEO & Founder of Booster) joins Shane Larson on The Gametime Guru Podcast to break down how Booster is changing sports fundraising for high school teams, booster clubs, and youth programs. The cost of athletics keeps rising, travel, equipment, team meals, uniforms, tournament fees — and many schools don't have the budget to cover it. Scott explains why traditional fundraisers (popcorn, candy, shoot-a-thons) often fall short, and how Booster takes a different approach: fundraising through content and community, with a subscription model designed to create recurring revenue for teams. In this conversation, we talk about: Why fundraising has become essential for high school sports programs The biggest hidden costs coaches are trying to cover (especially travel + meals) How Booster works as a fundraising platform built around team content Why community-based support beats one-time product fundraisers How parents, athletes, and student creators can help tell the team's story Booster's roots in NIL and where the platform is headed next If you're a coach, athletic director, parent, booster club leader, or sports business fan, this episode will give you a fresh look at how fundraising can actually feel exciting — and more sustainable. Learn more about Booster: https://booster.club/ Follow/Subscribe to The Gametime Guru Podcast for weekly interviews covering sports, leadership, and the business behind the game.

Willie Wright is a former NFL offensive lineman and the current Assistant Director of Student-Athlete Development for Bronco Life at Boise State University. In this episode, Willie breaks down what student-athlete development actually looks like behind the scenes, how the NIL era is reshaping college athletics, and why the transition to life after sports can be difficult for athletes who don't go pro. We get into the reality of being an undrafted NFL lineman, the week-to-week pressure of roster decisions, and what it feels like to be cut while still trying to stay ready. Willie also shares the practical resources he's helping Boise State athletes use right now, including financial literacy, career exposure, networking, and professional development—so they're prepared for what's next long before the final whistle. If you're a student-athlete, a parent of an athlete, a coach, or someone navigating that "what's next" moment after sports, this episode will give you frameworks you can apply immediately. In this episode we cover: NIL and the financial reality after college sports Life after football and athlete identity transition Undrafted NFL experience, practice squads, and roster cuts Boise State Bronco Life: personal and professional development Financial literacy, networking, and career exploration for athletes The biggest lesson from football: keep going Follow and subscribe for more weekly interviews on The Gametime Guru.

David Hitz is the founder of NeuroPro, where he helps athletes and high performers strengthen mental performance through neuroscience-backed tools and training. In this episode, we talk about the turning point that changed David's life, losing his older brother, and how that experience pushed him to take his health seriously in every area. We break down practical strategies that support the nervous system and improve performance, including breathwork, cold therapy (cold plunging), and the science of how the brain and body work together under pressure. If you are an athlete, coach, or parent of an athlete who has ever wondered why mental performance doesn't match physical ability, this episode will give you frameworks you can apply immediately. Topics include: Neuroscience fundamentals for better performance Breathwork and nervous system regulation Cold exposure and mental resilience Performance under stress and building consistency NeuroPro Mini-Course ($39): https://goneuropro.com/ Related interview with David (Athlete Narrative): https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=btoupoRUVaI Follow The Gametime Guru: Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/gametimeguru X: https://x.com/thegametimeguru/ Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gametimeguru/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/shane-larson-4b591944/ TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@thegametimeguru

I've had the opportunity to follow Seth Brock since his days at Eagle High School here in the Treasure Valley. Back then, I got to watch him compete as a tight end and defensive end, and he was also getting after it on the wrestling mat. He was a high-level athlete then, and now he's a national champion at Montana State. In this episode, Seth takes us inside what the transition to college football really looks like. Going from being "the guy" in high school to showing up at the next level where nobody cares who you were. You're back at ground zero. You're earning everything—your reps, your role, and your respect. We talk about what his redshirt year taught him, how to stay mentally locked in when you're practicing all week but not suiting up on Saturdays, and why timing is everything when you're trying to climb the depth chart. We also dive into the wrestling-to-football connection and why wrestling builds an edge for linemen—hand fighting, leverage, conditioning, adversity, and the mental toughness that carries over into life. Seth shares a powerful metaphor their D-line room lives by: "Water the bamboo." You don't always see growth right away… until it shoots up. Seth also breaks down Montana State's championship standard, the physicality of Big Sky football, and what it's like being part of a team that refuses to fold—even with their backs against the wall. Plus, he shares some unforgettable moments from this season, including Gold Rush, the Super Brawl, and his welcome-to-college-football moment at Oregon. If you're an athlete trying to make the jump to the next level—or a parent, coach, or sports fan who loves the stories behind the grind—this one is packed with lessons on preparation, patience, and maximizing opportunities when they come. To support Seth, check out his NIL links and gear, and follow him on Instagram. And if you enjoyed this episode, I'd really appreciate a 5-star review on Apple Podcasts, it takes 60 seconds and helps this show grow. _____________________________________ If you would like to watch the show, please feel free to follow me on YouTube and catch the video podcast from each of the guests! Here is the link to our interview for you to watch: https://youtu.be/tyoN7PA0Fmk

Boise State football fans, this one goes way beyond the highlights. I've followed Nick Schlekeway since his days at Eagle High School, and in this episode he shares the full story: winning at every level, playing for Boise State, and being part of the unforgettable Fiesta Bowl vs. Oklahoma, including what it felt like inside that game that changed college football forever. But the heart of this conversation is what happened after football ended. Nick opens up about the identity crisis many athletes face, the emotional toll of losing the sport that shaped them, and how dark that transition can get when the cheers stop. We also talk about the reality of concussions in contact sports, how they impacted him, and what athletes and parents should understand when competing at a high level. Today, Nick has taken the same "never quit" mindset from football and built a thriving business and team in Idaho, and his lessons on leadership, culture, and resilience apply to anyone chasing big goals. In this episode, we cover: Eagle High football and the leaders who shaped Nick early Boise State's rise and the behind-the-scenes of the Fiesta Bowl run The mental battle of life after sports, identity, purpose, rebuilding Concussions and what athletes and parents need to know How Nick transitioned into entrepreneurship and built a winning culture If you're a Boise State fan, love athlete stories, or want real insight into the grind beyond the game, follow the show and leave a review. It helps more than you know. _____________________________________ If you would like to watch the show, please feel free to follow me on YouTube and catch the video podcast from each of the guests! https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCqHG9H7vljaLwQ765GIdBQA

I had the chance to watch Layton Christian Academy compete at the Pro Image Sports Holiday Classic in Meridian, Idaho (Owyhee High School), and I was immediately intrigued by the way they carried themselves, competed, and ultimately won the tournament championship. Even more fascinating: Layton Christian is an international school with a roster made up of 15 players from 15 different countries. In this episode, Head Coach Casey Stanley breaks down what makes the program special and shares lessons that apply far beyond basketball, including: How he got into coaching at 6 years old (growing up around Iona College basketball) What college coaching is really like: the hours, travel, grind, and "grunt work" Why the best coaches and players succeed without ego (leadership takeaway) How international teams overcome language barriers (including stories using Google Translate) Why learning to "hug the win" matters for coaches, leaders, and business owners If you're a basketball junkie, a coach, a parent, or an athlete who loves the game — this one is for you. Follow Layton Christian Basketball: Instagram: @lcambb Business inquiries / interview requests: [email protected] Come follow The Gametime Guru on the various social media platforms! Facebook: The Gametime Guru - https://www.facebook.com/gametimeguru X: @thegametimeguru - https://x.com/thegametimeguru/ Instagram: @gametimeguru - https://www.instagram.com/gametimeguru/ TikTok: @thegametimeguru - https://www.tiktok.com/@thegametimeguru

Art Manteris is one of the most respected names in sports betting, an industry veteran with a four-decade career that includes time at the Fremont Hotel & Casino and running the sportsbook at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas. He was also inducted into the Sports Gaming Hall of Fame for his impact on the world of sports gaming. In this convo, I sit down with Art to talk about his new book, "The Bookie: How I Bet it all on Sports Gambling and Watched an Industry Explode", and the current headlines surrounding sports gambling. With betting scandals and integrity concerns dominating the conversation, Art shares an insider perspective on what's real, what's misunderstood, and what leagues, sportsbooks, and bettors can do to protect the integrity of the game while keeping sports betting legalized and responsibly regulated. If you're a sports fan, a bettor, or just curious about how this industry actually works behind the scenes, this is a must-listen. Get the book: Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Bookie-Inside-Betting-Billion-Dollar-Industry-ebook/dp/B0DQVC88X4 Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/the-bookie-art-manteris/1147777162 ... Enjoy the episode? Follow the show and share it with a friend who loves sports, betting, or behind-the-scenes stories.