The Gametime Guru

Former Boston University Division I soccer player Ty Johnson joins me to talk about: The challenges and opportunities in U.S. soccer vs. global systems Club vs. high school soccer and what recruiters really look for The cultural shift from Miami to San Francisco during his youth career Transitioning from athlete to media host (Live with Tai) and entrepreneur Why grit, discipline, and soccer’s “universal language” still shape his life today This is a candid look at the sport’s growth in America and the lessons athletes can carry beyond the field. 👉 Listen to Ty’s show: Live with Tai Apple Podcasts: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/live-with-ty-from-athlete-to-ceo-real-stories-of/id1787802468 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@livewithty

Coach Brandon Buck returns to discuss The Edge Leadership Summit, happening September 16–17, 2025 at Boise State University’s Stueckle Sky Center. We dive into: Why leadership events are transformational The meaning of “The Edge” in sports, business, and life The powerful speaker lineup featuring Coach Chris Petersen and others Why investing in yourself creates lasting growth If you’ve been on the fence about attending leadership events, this episode shows why being in the room matters. 👉 Learn more and register: https://infinitestrengths.com

At just 20 years old, Caeden “Prettiest” Scott is already building his name in the Bare Knuckle Fighting Championship (BKFC). In this episode of The Gametime Guru Podcast, I get to dive into Caeden’s journey—from his early days in boxing gyms to his undefeated run in bare knuckle competition. Listeners will hear about: The unique challenges of bare knuckle fighting vs. traditional boxing Training camps, fight day rituals, and what it feels like to walk into the Squared Circle How a perfectly timed jab can end a fight in seconds Caeden’s ambitions for BKFC titles and major boxing opportunities The mindset and discipline needed to succeed in combat sports at a young age Whether you’re a fight fan, an athlete, or just curious about the evolution of combat sports, this episode gives a panoramic view of BKFC and the future of young fighters. Subscribe and leave a review to support the show!

In this episode, I sit down with Coach Tim “Coach Beast” Whitehead—an ESPN award-winning coach who has transformed youth football through his focus on character, culture, and community. Listeners will gain insights into: Coaching philosophies that build athletes AND leaders Why fundamentals like blocking & tackling are the ultimate advantage How NIL is reshaping youth sports and what parents should know Travel vs. rec league football: which path develops kids best Practical advice for parents supporting their young athletes Whether you’re a youth football coach, a parent of an athlete, or simply a sports fan, this episode highlights how the right coaching at the youth level can impact a lifetime. Follow, rate ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐, and review The Gametime Guru for more sports stories that deliver perspective beyond the scoreboard. Follow Coach Beast: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachbeastfootball Beast Pod YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@BeastPodOfficial Explore the Beast Bloodline Brotherhood: https://www.skool.com/coach-beast-playbook-club-3444/about?ref=33eeadee016543f8b09ffd75314776a1 Check out the Beast Unleash Playbook Bundle: https://stan.store/CoachBeast/p/beastunleashedbundle You can watch this episode on YouTube as well: https://youtu.be/jo2Npw_iVuY

From the grind of JUCO football to the shelves of Amazon’s bestseller list — Nick Peck’s journey is proof that resilience wins. In this episode of The Gametime Guru Podcast, former college football player and author of Only Way Out shares his incredible story of overcoming adversity, using sports as a lifeline, and turning his life lessons into a powerful debut novel. Nick opens up about: Growing up in a turbulent home and finding stability through athletics The mental and physical grind of California JUCO football Transitioning from offensive lineman to long snapper to published author The powerful bond with his younger sister that shaped his drive Writing, publishing, and marketing Only Way Out to bestseller status Life after sports — how to keep competing when the game ends Whether you’re an athlete, sports fan, or simply love stories of grit and perseverance, this episode offers inspiration you can apply to your own journey. 📖 Get Nick’s Book: Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Only-Way-Out-Nick-Peck/dp/1966074336 Barnes & Noble: https://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/only-way-out-nick-peck/1147238577 Website: https://www.nickpeckauthor.com/

In this episode of The Gametime Guru Podcast, we sit down with Shea McClellin — small-town Idaho athlete turned Boise State football star, first-round NFL Draft pick, and Super Bowl champion with the New England Patriots. Shea takes us inside his football journey: Whether you’re a Boise State fan, NFL follower, or just love inspiring sports stories, this episode is packed with insight, inspiration, and behind-the-scenes moments. If you want to watch this interview on the video format, consider giving me a follow over on YouTube and catching the interview there: Interview with Shea McClellin: https://youtu.be/7GMQcIe3xrY

Ever wondered how Olympic athletes secure sponsorships—and why they truly need them? This week on The Gametime Guru Podcast, Shane Larson sits down with Rem de Rohan, Chief Revenue Officer at Aggregate Sports, to uncover the behind-the-scenes world of Olympic sponsorships. From connecting brands with athletes to telling authentic stories that resonate with fans, Rem shares how sponsorships go far beyond just writing checks. We dive into: ✅ What National Governing Bodies (NGBs) are and how they fuel the Olympic pipeline ✅ The real financial challenges athletes face while training for the Games ✅ How Aggregate Sports builds meaningful brand-athlete partnerships with long-term ROI ✅ Common mistakes made when selling sponsorships—and how to avoid them ✅ Why supporting Olympic sports matters for brands, athletes, and fans alike If you're a sports fan, marketer, or business owner looking to learn how sponsorships create impact on and off the field, this conversation is packed with insights you won’t hear anywhere else. 📢 Hit play to see sports through a different lens—and don’t forget to subscribe for more episodes featuring top sports figures and industry leaders worldwide. If you'd like to watch this on YouTube please consider giving me a follow on that platform there! https://youtu.be/Npa2BIeNEyA #Olympics #Sponsorships #America

Your shoes might be killing your performance—and your joints. In this episode of The Gametime Guru, I get the opportunity to chat with Stuart Jenkins, CEO of Blumaka and veteran footwear innovator, to break down why most insoles fail and how they’re silently contributing to injuries like turf toe, knee pain, and more. From using recycled foam to building non-slip insoles that NFL and MLB pros now swear by, Blumaka is flipping the script on footwear. Jenkins shares stories from his decades-long career, why factory insoles wear out in under 25 miles, and how better cushioning and traction can drastically improve athletic output and protect young athletes. If you'd like a 20% discount to get some great insoles from www.blumaka.com or from www.flexfootwear.com you can use this code at checkout: GTG20 So don't forget to use: GTG20 👟 Highlights You’ll Get From This Interview: What’s wrong with traditional insoles—and how Blumaka fixes it Real stats: factory insoles vs. Blumaka (1000-mile lifespan!) Non-slip grip = fewer blisters, stronger cuts, and longer stride Why women’s cleats may be increasing knee injuries How pro athletes are using Blumaka to stay on the field A special discount code for athletes, teams, and coaches Whether you're training for a half marathon, coaching high school football, or just want pain-free movement—this episode will change how you look at every step you take. 📍 Get your pair at https://www.blumaka.com 🎧 Subscribe and leave a 5-star review if this helped you 📲 Follow Shane @thegametimeguru for more insights each week

Power Slap: brutal gimmick or rising combat sport? In this episode, Power Slap light heavyweight Mirza Berhomavic joins Shane Larson on The Game Time Guru Podcast to break down the sport that’s got the internet buzzing—and critics divided. Mirza takes us through his journey from MMA training in Idaho to stepping on stage at the UFC Apex for his first Power Slap bout. From rule breakdowns and fight-week prep to getting rocked (and returning fire), he explains what it really takes to compete in Dana White’s newest promotion. 🧠 What You'll Learn: The truth behind Power Slap’s rules and judging How fighters train (without sparring) for full-contact slaps Behind-the-scenes details of UFC-level production What it feels like to take—and deliver—a knockout-level slap Lessons Mirza learned from a critical mistake in his debut bout Whether you’re a UFC fan, MMA athlete, or just Power Slap curious, this episode brings unmatched insight into the world’s wildest new sport. 📲 Don’t forget to subscribe, rate, and review The Gametime Guru Podcast for more in-depth athlete stories. _____________________________________ Want to WATCH the podcast? Come over to my YouTube channel and watch the interview today to put some faces to names - https://youtu.be/-J1WhZ1eHTg

Need some motivation today to help you keep going?! Well search no further than here on The Gametime Guru where I speak with Mister Motivation himself, Shaun Murphy. Shaun is an accomplished speaker, author, musician and has a life full of adversity and lessons learned. He's now using his platform and knowledge along with his experience, to build others and inspire those who need a 'boost' in life. If you want to learn more about Shaun's mission go here: https://mister-motivation.com/ You can also read his incredible book today: "Unbreakable Valor: Triumph Through the Soul of Resilience" - https://www.amazon.com/Unbreakable-Valor-Triumph-Through-Resilience/dp/1961863073 I would encourage any athlete or parent who needs a change of heart or a change in direction with where they're currently headed, to tap into this podcast today! Follow Shaun today on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/misterm0tivati0n/ You can find his music on Spotify as well: https://open.spotify.com/artist/5EPyOcUv5KjjfyDGZFQo5Y _____________________________ If you are a business owner, and you have heard about ClickFunnels, then you know the power it can have on your business!! EVERYONE is always looking for a discount to ClickFunnels, and I have it for you right here! https://www.imallin.com/?aff=5cbea6d0-1f1c-435e-bf6f-489c8a4ac116-1WzEwLDIwNTZdc If you want to get ClickFunnels at a MAJOR discounted rate, then click the link above and you can literally SAVE HUNDREDS PER YEAR on the subscription! Get it TODAY!

What’s the real state of women’s basketball today? Coach Carson Huelle, former college player turned coach and creator of a fast-growing WNBA fan community, joins The Gametime Guru to break it all down. From the Caitlin Clark effect to the rise of the WNBA and the new Unrivaled league, this conversation covers what makes women’s basketball unique, powerful, and misunderstood. In this episode, we explore: The differences (and similarities) between men’s and women’s basketball Coaching philosophies for female athletes at different levels Why the 3-on-3 Unrivaled league matters more than you think How young girls can set themselves apart through IQ, fundamentals, and passion A behind-the-scenes look at women’s hoops from youth to pro If you're a basketball fan, coach, or parent of a young athlete — this is a powerful deep dive into one of the fastest-growing segments in sports. 🎧 Subscribe and listen each week as we bring you new voices and stories that help you see sports through a different lens.

In this inspiring episode of The Gametime Guru, former University of Houston wide receiver Linell Bonner shares his powerful journey from being overlooked in high school to becoming a standout D1 athlete, a published author, and a transformational mentor and speaker. Key Topics Covered: Buy "It's Your Choice: The Art of Becoming" today: https://www.amazon.com/Its-Your-Choice-Art-Becoming/dp/B0D52PMTRX Follow Linell on his pages: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/linellbonner3/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/linell-bonner-iii-4b3225a5/ Life After Football: Linell shares how God led him away from professional sports and into a higher calling — mentoring youth, delivering impactful keynotes, and helping people discover their true purpose. Why You Should Watch This Interview: If you're a young athlete, a parent, a coach, or someone struggling to find your identity beyond the game — Linell’s story will resonate deeply. This isn’t just about football. It’s about faith, mindset, hard work, and becoming who you’re meant to be. Subscribe for More Interviews: Every week we go behind the scenes with sports figures from all over the world — showing you a panoramic view of the sports world through a different lens. 👍 Like | 💬 Comment | 🔁 Share | 🔔 Subscribe #GametimeGuru #LinellBonner #FaithAndFootball #CollegeFootball #MotivationalInterview #NFLJourney #D1Athlete #UniversityOfHouston #FromWalkOnToStarter #OvercomingAdversity #ChristianAthlete #TheArtOfBecoming #MindsetMatters

In this exclusive interview, former Michigan and Ole Miss quarterback Shea Patterson joins me to deliver raw insights on playing Division I football in both the SEC and Big Ten, adapting to multiple offensive systems, and his journey into the USFL with the Michigan Panthers. This is from my interview with Shae back in 2022 on the Nations Best Brotherhood Podcast with Nations Best Football. 🎯 What You'll Learn in This Episode: What it's really like competing in both the SEC and Big Ten as a quarterback How Shea Patterson prepared mentally and physically for the pros Behind-the-scenes perspective on college stadiums like Kyle Field, The Big House, and Penn State’s White Out What it's like playing with elite athletes like A.J. Brown and competing against Jeff Okudah and Devin White The mindset required to succeed at the next level and deal with rejection, setbacks, and constant change The importance of football IQ, learning 12 different offensive systems, and breaking down real play calls What brotherhood really means in high-level team sports Patterson opens up about his faith, mental toughness, and the note he wrote in 4th grade that still drives him: “I will play in the NFL.” Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or fan, this episode offers golden nuggets on leadership, preparation, and perseverance in sports and life.

What do Jerry Maguire, Patrick Mahomes, Troy Aikman, and Warren Moon all have in common? Their stories intersect with Leigh Steinberg, one of the most iconic sports agents in history. In this episode of The Gametime Guru, Leigh opens up about: His influence on the movie Jerry Maguire How elite athletes like Mahomes and Young handle adversity NIL’s impact on the future of college sports His unique approach to mentoring athletes on and off the field Why brotherhood and character matter more than talent alone If you’re a sports fan, student-athlete, or business leader, you won’t want to miss this conversation. 🎧 Subscribe and leave a review to keep up with weekly episodes that bring sports to life from every angle. _____________________________________ 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://youtu.be/ccCfaGi1bzw

What’s the current state of club basketball in 2025? In this solo episode of The Gametime Guru, I will dive into the real pros and cons of the modern youth sports scene, particularly club basketball. Key Questions Answered: Topics Covered: Why This Matters: Parents, coaches, and athletes are investing time and money into club sports with the hope of long-term payoffs. But are we losing sight of what matters most? Shane shares personal stories and insight after four years of coaching 16U, 17U, and unsigned seniors, providing a raw and unfiltered look at what’s really going on behind the scenes. If you're searching for: “Why are youth sports so expensive?” ...then this episode gives you the perspective you're looking for. Recorded after the 2025 season and featuring real insights from tournaments across California, Utah, and Idaho—including battles with junior college teams and underfunded tournaments—this episode provides an honest look at what youth sports are becoming… and what they should be. Subscribe to The Gametime Guru for weekly interviews with sports figures, deep dives into current sports issues, and behind-the-scenes stories that help you see sports through a different lens. If you would like to see this on VIDEO, feel free to follow me over on YouTube and catch the podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h40snStgyaQ

Today, I interview Ryan Winterswyk, former walk-on turned star defensive end at Boise State, and former NFL player with the Atlanta Falcons. Ryan talks candidly about: This episode is about more than football—it's about mindset, resilience, and reinvention. Whether you're an athlete or just love a comeback story, this episode will inspire and inform. Subscribe to hear from athletes and coaches across the globe who’ve seen success, struggle, and growth on and off the field. _____________________________________ 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://youtu.be/yxDLILuN34M

Thinking about playing football at the next level? In this episode of The Gametime Guru Podcast, we dive deep into the real-life journey of Carl Pickens, from high school standout to Freshman All-American at Tennessee, to NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year with the Cincinnati Bengals. This conversation is essential listening for: 🚨 Aspiring college and pro athletes 🚨 High school football players looking to understand the process 🚨 Parents and coaches helping athletes navigate transitions 🚨 Fans of 1990s NFL football (Boomer Esiason, Jeff Blake, Deion Sanders, and more!) 🎯 Key Questions Answered in this Episode ➤ How can players handle the disappointment of draft day? Carl shares how being passed over by the Denver Broncos fueled his fire and how he embraced the unexpected call from Cincinnati. ➤ What’s the hardest part about the transition from high school to college football? It’s not just the playbook—Carl talks about culture shock, homesickness, and learning how to re-prove yourself at every level. ➤ Can you make it to the NFL if you’re not a 5-star recruit? Carl explains how mindset, consistency, and accountability matter more than rankings. ➤ What’s it really like to go from college to the pros? From catching passes from Boomer Esiason to learning the pro playbook—Carl explains what being a professional means beyond just talent. 🧠 Top Takeaways from Carl Pickens Accountability defines professionalism: From showing up on time to running clean routes, accountability is the #1 trait that separates the pros. Setbacks are setups: From being redshirted at Tennessee to switching positions early in college, Carl used every obstacle as fuel. You don’t have to be open to make a play: Learn how Carl won contested catches vs. elite DBs like Deion Sanders and Aeneas Williams. Support systems matter: Carl’s family and coaches helped him stay grounded during the hardest transitions of his career. Your “why” drives your success: He didn’t want to let his parents down—and that kept him focused during the grind of NFL life. 🏆 Highlights from the Interview Playing high school basketball as a 6'1" forward and high jumping 7'1" Being the only freshman receiver at Tennessee and transitioning to free safety Being passed on by Denver during the NFL Draft and picked by Cincinnati instead How turf vs. grass impacted his favorite stadiums (Denver, Cleveland) Stories from the locker room: relationships with Darnay Scott, Boomer Esiason, and Jeff Blake 📍 Follow Carl Pickens on Instagram: 🔗 https://www.instagram.com/thecarlpickens Want to see what Carl’s up to now? From motorcycles to horses to podcast appearances—he’s just getting started in his post-NFL journey. 🎙 About The Gametime Guru Podcast Host: Shane Larson Global reach: 182 countries 🔁 Weekly interviews with pro athletes, coaches, and sports visionaries 👉 Subscribe for more powerful conversations that reveal what it really takes to compete and succeed at the highest level of sports.

Are you a shorter basketball player trying to stand out? This episode is for you. Former Boise State standout and pro guard Montigo Alford (aka Tigo) shares exactly how shorter guards can dominate, impact winning, and build long-term success—on and off the court. 📌 What You’ll Learn: Can shorter basketball players still earn D1 offers and pro contracts? → Yes. Montigo breaks down the exact mindset, training, and roles shorter guards must embrace. What does "impacting winning" really mean? → It’s not about dropping 30 points—it’s about defense, leadership, and embracing your role. Is lifting weights during the season a good idea? → Absolutely. Montigo even hits the leg press right before games. Why is social media so important for athletes today? → Because your first and last name is your brand. Coaches want to see what you’re about. 💬 Top Quotes from Montigo Alford: “Your first and last name is your brand—treat it like one.” “At 5'9, they counted me out. I used the weight room, the film room, and my mentality to prove them wrong.” “Discipline and consistency—that's what basketball gave me.” “It’s not about being the guy, it’s about impacting winning.” 📍 Who Should Watch This: 👤 Follow Montigo Alford / TGO Pro Athletics: Want to train with TGO in the Treasure Valley? Search TGO Pro Athletics on Instagram or reach out directly via his IG: @montigo_alford @tgoproathletics Subscribe to The Gametime Guru Podcast for more raw, real, and insightful interviews with athletes around the world: 🎙 Hosted by Shane Larson 🌍 Streaming globally in 180+ countries

Today, I (Shane Larson) sit down with Bob Smith, founder and CEO of Nation’s Best Football—a platform that's become a cornerstone of athlete branding, NIL education, and nationwide football coverage from youth to pro. With 15+ years of spotlighting athletes and connecting them to life-changing opportunities, Bob shares his journey building the Nation’s Best ecosystem and his vision for the future of NIL, digital sports marketing, and community-driven athlete development. 🏈 WHAT YOU'LL LEARN IN THIS EPISODE: How Nation’s Best went from a niche football page to a multi-platform sports brand The evolution of youth football, club travel teams, and national tournaments The truth about NIL in 2025 — challenges, legal shifts, and what's coming next How athletes can safely monetize their name, image, and likeness with structure Exclusive insight on Nation’s Best NIL Dream Team, spotlight campaigns, and business partnerships Why authenticity, connection, and brand-building are the new keys to athlete success 🧠 Whether you're a high school athlete, college coach, brand rep, or sports parent — this is your masterclass in modern football marketing and NIL impact. — EXPLORE NATION'S BEST + NIL RESOURCES Main Website: https://www.nationsbestfootball.com NIL Dream Team Hub: https://www.nildreamteam.com Contact: info@nationsbestfootball.com — 🔗 FOLLOW NATION’S BEST ONLINE YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/Nationsbestawards TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@nationsbestnildreamteam Twitter/X: https://x.com/nationsbestNIL Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/NationsBestFootball/ LinkedIn (Bob Smith): https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-smith-0011a2118/ — EPISODE CHAPTERS 00:00 – Introduction: How Shane and Bob met 03:00 – What Is Nation’s Best? 07:00 – The Growth of Youth Football 11:00 – Athlete Spotlights: From Pop Warner to D1 20:00 – How NIL Is Changing in 2025 31:00 – Building the NIL Dream Team 38:00 – Business Partnerships & Brand Expansion 45:00 – Nation’s Best Fantasy, Flag, Natty, and More 50:00 – Lessons From 15 Years in Sports Media — #NIL #NationBestFootball #YouthFootball #AthleteBranding #NIL2025 #FootballPodcast #NILDreamTeam #GametimeGuru #HighSchoolFootball #NILEducation

In this episode of The Gametime Guru, I interview Anthony Tucker, the founder of Hoop Habits and former professional basketball player who competed overseas and in the Big Ten. From winning a high school state championship to building a training facility focused on mindset, recovery, and development, Anthony shares powerful insights on how to navigate the transition from athlete to entrepreneur. TOPICS COVERED: The mindset required for professional basketball Overcoming being cut and bouncing back stronger How AAU basketball has changed (and where it’s headed) Building a youth basketball training business from the ground up The role of nutrition, recovery, and sports psychology in long-term athletic success Life after sports: translating athletic skills into the business world RESOURCES & LINKS: - ✅ Learn more about Anthony’s elite training program: https://www.hoophabits.com ✅ Follow Hoop Habits on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hoophabitstraining ✅ AAU Info: https://www.hoophabitselite.com 📩 Contact: info@hoophabits.com Whether you're an aspiring college athlete, basketball parent, or someone looking to build mental toughness in life or sport, this interview delivers value-packed takeaways that apply on and off the court. — CHAPTER HIGHLIGHTS: 00:00 – Intro to Anthony Tucker 03:00 – Playing in the Big Ten & Overseas 07:00 – AAU Basketball Evolution 10:00 – Mental Health & Performance Pressure 15:00 – Life Lessons from College Hoops 22:00 – Professional Basketball Realities 30:00 – Starting Hoop Habits 38:00 – Business Challenges in Sports Training 44:00 – Nutrition, Recovery & Mindset for Young Athletes 50:00 – Final Thoughts on Goals & Grit — Support the Show This podcast is brought to you by Timberline Digital Marketing – helping small businesses grow through smart digital strategies. Head to www.timberlinedigitalmarketing.com Don’t forget to subscribe, leave a comment, and share this episode with a fellow hooper or sports parent! #BasketballPodcast #AthleteMindset #HoopHabits #AAUBasketball #YouthDevelopment #MentalToughness #BasketballTraining #AnthonyTucker #GametimeGuru