Athletics Podcast

Everything Orange | Dylan Sampson (Football)

Thu, 26 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Joining the podcast this week: the FBS leader in rushing touchdowns! Junior running back Dylan Sampson — who has logged 10 rushing touchdowns through just four games this season — breaks down his outstanding performances so far, with a special emphasis on last week’s win at No. 15 Oklahoma and a four-touchdown showing on his birthday. The Baton Rouge, Louisiana, native also talks about his “why” and recalls last summer’s “trip of a lifetime” to Africa with the VOLeaders Academy.

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Everything Orange | Mac Midgley (Soccer)

Thu, 19 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

This week Mac Midgley shares her thoughts on the Lady Vols' top-five win, the identity of Tennessee soccer, and the unforgettable summer trip that kicked off her 2024 season! The athlete you love to root for and the teammate everyone wants by their side. She's a fierce competitor who embodies the perfect blend of grit, heart, and humor.

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Everything Orange | Olympic Mashup

Thu, 12 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Tennessee sent 32 current and former student-athletes to the 2024 Paris Olympics. On this week’s episode we spotlight five of those athletes and their experience at the Games. Cierra Burdick (3x3 basketball, USA), Martin Espernberger (swimming, Austria), Javonya Valcourt (track, Bahamas), Brooklyn Douthwright (swimming, Canada), and Davonte Howell (track, Cayman Islands) reflect on what it was like to represent their countries on such a large stage, Olympic Ring tattoos, and of course, the viral chocolate muffins in the Olympic Village!

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Everything Orange | Matt Kredich (Swimming & Diving)

Thu, 05 Sep 2024 08:00:00 +0000

We’re still buzzing from the Olympic Games this summer and excited to welcome to the podcast Tennessee Director of Swimming & Diving Matt Kredich! Seventeen (17!) Vol and Lady Vol swimmers qualified for Paris 2024 — second-most of any school. That group represented Rocky Top well, claiming two Olympic medals, breaking five national records and advancing to seven event finals. Kredich talks about the Olympic culture at Tennessee, his travels to Paris as a coach and cheerleader, and a touching tribute from one LVFL to his late son, Ben.

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Everything Orange | Jahmai Mashack (Men's Basketball)

Thu, 29 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Joining the podcast this week is one of the nation’s most feared on-ball defenders, whose tenacious style of play and sparkling off-court personality epitomizes everything we love about the Tennessee Basketball program. In this episode, Jahmai Mashack offers insight on the Vols’ reloaded roster, discusses his role as a veteran leader and finally addresses the allegations about his taste in music.

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Everything Orange | Tony Vitello (Baseball)

Thu, 22 Aug 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Okay guys, we’re back! Season 2 of the Everything Orange podcast is officially here and in case you missed it — Tennessee Baseball won a national championship title for the first time in program history, clinching the College World Series crown back in June 2024. So who better to revisit the historic season with than the man, the myth, the legend, head coach Tony Vitello. From the dramatic first-game comeback, to the packed streets of Downtown Knoxville's championship celebration, Vitello shares all his thoughts, feelings, and emotions on the past couples months.

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Everything Orange | Season One Finale

Thu, 13 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back y'all to the last episode of Everything Orange: Season One. Thirty nine episodes in and it truly feels like we just started this project yesterday. What a joy it has been to share the stories, experiences, and journeys of our student athletes, coaches and alumni across all 15 athletic programs. In order to celebrate the winding down of the 2023-24 athletic calendar year, here is a highlight reel of some of our favorite moments on the podcast this season. Over the summer, please go back and revisit any episodes you might have missed or would like to listen to again. We have a lot of new changes in the works over the next couple of weeks and cannot wait to get back to having conversations with our Tennessee Athletics community this fall. I promise, you won’t want to miss it!

Everything Orange | Bailey Davis (Women's Golf)

Thu, 06 Jun 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to Everything Orange! Our guest today is Bailey Davis, a junior on the women’s golf team, who wrapped up her third season on Rocky Top by competing in the 2024 NCAA Individual Women’s Championship. Listen to learn more about how she was able to punch her ticket out of regionals, how she learned to love the game of golf, and what it means for her to be a visual representation of the modern day golfer for little girls everywhere.

Everything Orange | Hunter Ensley (Baseball)

Thu, 30 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of Everything Orange! Today, redshirt junior Hunter Ensley, aka one of our 2024 SEC Champions from the Tennessee baseball team, joins us on the podcast. Listen to learn more about how Ensley fought to get back onto the field after a shoulder injury, how he found his spot in the lineup, securing another baseball SEC tournament title, and what the Volunteers are looking to accomplish heading into regionals this weekend!

Everything Orange | Kim Caldwell (Women's Basketball)

Thu, 23 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of the Everything Orange podcast. Our guest today is the newest head coach to join us on Rocky Top, Lady Vol basketball head coach Kim Caldwell. Throughout this episode, you’ll learn everything you need to know about how her father influenced her to want to coach, what she hopes to accomplish on Rocky Top, the positive additions to next season's roster and staff, and what it means to represent the Pat Summit legacy.

Everything Orange | Kirby Connell (Baseball)

Thu, 16 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of the Everything Orange podcast! Today our guest is senior pitcher Kirby Connell, who is a leader on the No. 1 ranked baseball team in the country. Listen to learn more about his past 5 years on Rocky Top, what it means to represent Tennessee, and what he will miss the most!

Everything Orange | Zaida Puni (Softball)

Thu, 09 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of the Everything Orange podcast! Today our guest is senior infielder Zaida Puni, who is a leader on the No. 5 ranked softball team in the country. Listen to learn more about her upbringing in softball, the new home her family has found in Knoxville, and her deep Samoan roots that she represents in everything she does.

Everything Orange | Johannus Monday (Men's Tennis)

Thu, 02 May 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of the Everything Orange podcast! Today our guest is senior men’s tennis leader Johannus Monday, who is currently ranked No. 2 nationally in singles. Listen to learn more about the belief that Tennessee has helped instill in him, what his future after collegiate tennis has in store, and his daily ritual that determines whether he’s going to have a good or bad day – hint he’s a big NYT games guy!

Everything Orange | Ann Baker Furrow (Women's Golf)

Thu, 25 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of the Everything Orange podcast! Today our guest is VFL Ann Baker Furrow, a Title IX trailblazer for female athletes at the University of Tennessee who come April 26th, 2024 will be an inductee into the Tennessee Athletics Hall of Fame. Listen to learn more about her experience as the first female golfer and scholarship athlete at UT, how Title IX affected Tennessee Athletics and other “first lady” responsibilities where she left her mark on.

Everything Orange | Bryce Lewis (Men's Golf)

Thu, 18 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of the Everything Orange podcast! Today, our guest is redshirt-senior golfer Bryce Lewis. Listen to learn more about what his six years on Rocky Top have meant to him, the bond he has with Coach Webb, and what he’ll remember most about being a Tennessee Volunteer. Plus, hear his thoughts on this year’s Masters!

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Everything Orange | Dylan Sampson, Squirrel White (Football)

Thu, 11 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of Everything Orange! This week we decided to try something new… Today our GUESTS are best friends on and off the field – running back Dylan Sampson and wide receiver Squirrel White. Both upcoming juniors on the football team who are a big part of Tennessee’s culture and growth over the past two seasons. Listen to learn more about their southern roots, what makes Tennessee special, and what they’re building this spring.

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Everything Orange | Rylie West (Softball)

Thu, 04 Apr 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of the Everything Orange podcast! Today, our guest is senior outfielder Rylie West who is in the middle of her best campaign on Rocky Top. Hoping to help lead her team to another victorious season, listen to learn more about how sport for change has impacted her life, the relationships she’s made as a Lady Vol and being named the 2024 Torchbearer.

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Everything Orange | Duane Ross (Track & Field)

Thu, 28 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of the Everything Orange podcast! Our guest today is 1995 NCAA champion, 2004 Olympian and 2021 Co-National Coach of the Year Duane Ross. Having established himself in the world of track and field as both an athlete and a coach, Ross shares some of his collegiate and professional experiences, what he has learned throughout his coaching career, and why Rocky Top has been the best home for him and his family.

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Everything Orange | Josiah-Jordan James (Men's Basketball)

Thu, 21 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of the Everything Orange podcast Today, our guest is fifth year guard Josiah-Jordan James. Listen to hear James take a walk down memory lane over the course of his past five years on Rocky Top, the people who had the biggest influence on him during his time as a Volunteer, and what makes this group of guys so special heading into the NCAA tournament!

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Everything Orange | Jasmine Powell (Women's Basketball)

Thu, 14 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of the Everything Orange podcast Today, our guest is fifth year point guard Jasmine Powell. Listen to learn more about she reconnect with Rickea Jackson on Rocky Top, how she’s grown during her time at Tennessee, and what she will remember most about her time as a Lady Vol!

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Everything Orange | Josh Heupel (Football)

Thu, 07 Mar 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to the Everything Orange podcast! How have we hit our 25th episode already? Our guest today is football head coach Josh Heupel, who took over on Rocky Top in 2021, he has since led the Big Orange back to national prominence. Listen to learn more about his “family first” foundation, how he’s seen growth and development within the program the past three years, and what it’s meant being a part of an athletics department seeing across all its teams!

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Everything Orange | Camille Spink (Swim & Dive)

Thu, 29 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of the Everything Orange podcast. Today, our guest is swimmer Camille Spink who is settling back onto Rocky Top after having an exceptional outing at her first swim and dive SEC Championships. Listen to learn more about why Rocky Top felt like home to her, how she’s progressed in just a couple months with the program, her thoughts on how SEC championships went for her and what is ahead of her with NCAA’s and the 2024 Paris Olympics on the horizon!

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Everything Orange | Candace Parker (Women's Basketball)

Thu, 22 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Our guest today is a legend, an icon and one of the most decorated female basketball athletes to ever put on a uniform, LVFL Candace Parker. While at Tennessee, she became the first woman to dunk in an NCAA tournament and brought home back to back national championship titles in 2007 and 2008. As the first pick in the 2008 WNBA Draft, she went on to have a successful professional career being named WNBA Rookie of the Year, WNBA Finals MVP, as well as winning two Gold Medals for Team USA and three WNBA championship titles – AND she’s not done playing yet! Off the court, she is a mother, a wife, a broadcaster, and an inspiring role model for young women ever… including me!

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Everything Orange | Wade Houston (Men's Basketball)

Thu, 15 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

In honor of Black History Month, we wanted to highlight an individual in Tennessee Athletics history who embodied what it means to be a Volunteer. Our guest today, former men’s basketball head coach Wade Houston, is a trailblazer, a visionary, and a force for change. His life story is a testament to the power of determination and the ability to overcome adversity. Throughout our conversation, we'll unravel the layers of his personal, athletic and professional journey, exploring the challenges faced, the triumphs achieved, and the lasting legacy he’s created.

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Everything Orange | Angel Diaz (Men's Tennis)

Thu, 08 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of the Everything Orange podcast. Today’s guest is graduate men’s tennis player Angel Diaz. On this episode, Angel shares what made him want to leave Ecuador to pursue a collegiate career in the states, the growth he’s seen both as an athlete and person while at Tennessee, and what he’s looking forward to in his final season on Rocky Top!

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Everything Orange | Kim Cupini (Rowing)

Thu, 01 Feb 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of the Everything Orange podcast. Today’s guest is Tennessee’s third rowing head coach in program history, Kim Cupini. Listen to learn more about what stood out to her about joining the Tennessee Athletic staff, what it means for her to get the opportunity to represent the Lady Vol legacy, and what excites her about her first season leading the rowing program on Rocky Top! Plus stick around to hear her thoughts on the latest sports movie release: The Boys In The Boat.

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Everything Orange | Keenan Pili (Football)

Thu, 25 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of the Everything Orange podcast. Today’s guest is graduate linebacker Keenan Pili. Listen to learn more about the Pili family football roots, his unique path to Tennessee, the growth he’s experienced since his 2023 season ending injury and ultimately what led him to return to Tennessee for his seventh (yes you read that correctly) year of college football!

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Everything Orange | Alison Ojeda (Women's Tennis)

Thu, 18 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Hey everyone! Welcome back to another episode of Everything Orange. Today’s guest is Women’s Tennis Head Coach and former Lady Vol Alison Ojeda. Listen to hear about her journey to Rocky Top as an athlete and coach, lessons learned after a momentous 2023 season, what it means to her to be a female head coach at the collegiate level and how her baby girl got the name “Summit”!

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Everything Orange | Dalton Knecht (Men's Basketball)

Thu, 11 Jan 2024 08:00:00 +0000

Happy (late) New Year everyone and welcome back to the first Everything Orange episode of 2024. On today’s podcast, we have graduate transfer guard Dalton Knecht, who made an immediate impact on Rocky Top from just about every spot on the court. In his first week as a Volunteer, he earned SEC Player of the Week honors and hit his 1,000 career points milestone. He averages 15 points per game and earned a career high 37 points against UNC earlier this season. Tune in to learn more about how he learned to love the game, his reason for transferring to Tennessee and how the fanbase that has embraced and celebrated him from the very beginning!

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Everything Orange | Vice Chancellor/Director of Athletics Danny White

Thu, 14 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode of Everything Orange, Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics Danny White joins the podcast. Boasting a literal lifetime of experience in the industry, White oversaw a period of unprecedented competitive, academic and service excellence at the University of Central Florida from 2015-21 and at Buffalo from 2012-15. From the moment he arrived on Rocky Top three years ago this upcoming January, a point of emphasis for White was the development of a comprehensive five-year strategic plan for Tennessee Athletics. From NCAA tournament runs to SEC Championships, professional draft picks to success in the classroom, Tennessee is America’s College Sports City. Listen to hear an update on our fall sports seasons, fundraising efforts, campus renovations and more!

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Everything Orange | Dean Casey (Track & Field/XC)

Thu, 07 Dec 2023 08:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode of Everything Orange, freshman distance runner Dean Casey joins the podcast. A native from Ennis Ireland, Casey found his home away from home on Rocky Top and never looked back. During his freshman season, he earned multiple SEC accolades including being named SEC Freshman of Year – the first and only time a XC Volunteer has won the award since it was introduced in 2000. Listen to learn more about his path to becoming a Volunteer, what this past season meant to him and some common misconceptions about the Irish!

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Everything Orange | Eve Rackham Watt (Volleyball)

Thu, 30 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode of Everything Orange, volleyball Head Coach Eve Rackham Watt joins the podcast. Following a historic regular season, Rackham Watt has helped lead the team to a 24-4 record thus far with road wins over Kentucky and Florida. Now heading into the NCAA tournament, the Lady Vols will be hosting the first and second rounds this weekend for the first time since 2011. Listen to hear more about what she’s learned throughout her first head coaching position on Rocky Top, how she juggles all the different hats she wears, and why this group was destined for a special season!

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Everything Orange | Jaida Thomas (Soccer)

Thu, 16 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode of Everything Orange, redshirt senior forward Jaida Thomas joins the podcast. Listen to Jaida talk about her journey to Tennessee, what the past five years have meant to her and all the big moments she’s experienced representing the Lady Vol logo. Plus, she brings on a special guest with her that you’re not going to want to miss!

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Everything Orange | VFL Sterl The Pearl

Thu, 09 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

On this week’s episode of Everything Orange, VFL quarterback Sterling Henton aka DJ Sterl the Pearl joins the podcast. Learn more about Sterl’s playing days on the gridiron, how the opportunity to be Tennessee Athletics DJ came to be, and what it means to him to be such an integral part of the game day experience. Get ready to smile until your cheeks hurt!

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Everything Orange | Jewel Spear (Women's Basketball)

Thu, 02 Nov 2023 08:00:00 +0000

On this week’s episode of Everything Orange, senior transfer guard Jewel Spear joins the podcast. Listen to learn more about her journey to Tennessee, why she makes an effort to support different athletic programs across campus, and what she is most looking forward to during her first season as a Lady Vol. Also, if you’re a fan of Rod Wave’s music, stick around to see if you know the lyrics to his songs better than Jewel herself.

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Everything Orange | Santiago Vescovi (Men's Basketball)

Thu, 26 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome to the 10th episode of the Everything Orange podcast! Joining us is men’s basketball shooting guard Santiago Vescovi, who decided to return to Rocky Top for his fifth and final year of eligibility. In this episode, the Montevideo native discusses his Uruguayan roots; his journey across the world to Knoxville, Tennessee; and some special memories and relationships from his past four years as a Volunteer. Also, if you’ve seen Santi carrying around a cup and thermos, have no fear! We’ve got all the answers on what Yerba Mate is all about and its cultural significance.

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Everything Orange | Ashley Jones (Track & Field/XC)

Thu, 19 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

On this week’s episode of Everything Orange, senior transfer long distance runner Ashley Jones joins the podcast. Leading the way for the Lady Vols with a 12th place finish at Pre-Nationals over the weekend, Jones has been a significant addition to the team this season. However, her athletic success didn’t just happen to her by accident. The adversity she has had to overcome to even be in the position that she is in today is truly incredible. We promise that after listening to this episode, you will walk away feeling inspired.

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Everything Orange | Gabe Jeudy-Lally (Football)

Thu, 12 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of the Everything Orange podcast, where we catch up with graduate transfer defensive back Gabe Jeudy-Lally. Listen to hear more about Jeudy-Lally’s experience growing up in Texas high school football culture, his journey to Tennessee, and what it means to represent the Power T. Prior to his arrival at UT, he earned his undergraduate degree in three years, started on his MBA and is currently working on his masters – so he knows a thing or two about being a student-athlete. Also, stick around to learn a little bit of Russian and his Ukrainian roots!

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Everything Orange | Mona McSharry (Swim & Dive)

Thu, 05 Oct 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Welcome back to another episode of the Everything Orange podcast, where we catch up with senior swimmer Mona McSharry. The Tokyo 2020 Olympian representing her home country of Ireland, found her way across the pond to Rocky Top because of one thing: Family. Listen to learn more about what life for Mona was like growing up in Sligo, Ireland, her biggest battle she’s had to face during her swimming career, and what it means to be competing in the 2024 Paris Olympics. Featuring a special guest: her best buddy, pal and four legged friend, Luna McSharry!

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Everything Orange | Caroline Kerr (Volleyball)

Thu, 28 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

On this week’s episode of Everything Orange, redshirt freshman setter Caroline Kerr joins the podcast. In her debut season, Kerr is leading the SEC in assists per set and has received conference honors four straight weeks so far this season. Listen to learn more about how her hard work landed her at Tennessee, what it means to represent the Lady Vol logo, and the team’s identity this season.

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Everything Orange | Kameron Simmonds (Soccer)

Thu, 21 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

On this week’s episode of Everything Orange, sophomore forward Kameron Simmonds joins the podcast. Leading the Lady Vols in scoring so far this season, Kameron discusses her father’s influence on committing to the game, the Simmonds family’s deep Jamaican roots, competing on the World Cup stage, and the people on Rocky Top who supported her journey along the way.

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Everything Orange | Tony Vitello (Baseball)

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

Tennessee head baseball coach Tony Vitello joins the Everything Orange podcast. Entering his seventh season as the Vols’ skipper, the man behind Tennessee Baseball’s rise to national prominence discusses the program’s identity and culture shift, his own growth as a head coach and the wave of success he’s seen across all of Tennessee Athletics.

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Everything Orange | Kiki Milloy (Softball)

Thu, 07 Sep 2023 08:00:00 +0000

In this episode of Everything Orange, we chat with 2023 SEC softball champion and Torchbearer recipient Kiki Milloy. Kiki talks about her softball family, the Lady Vols’ historic run last season, her University of Tennessee Torchbearer award and so much more! P.S. If you're a Colleen Hoover romance novel book fan, you’ll want to stick around until the end!

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Everything Orange | Omari Thomas (Football)

Thu, 31 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

On this week's episode, we sit down with senior defensive lineman Omari "Big O" Thomas. Listen to him share his experience growing up in the Volunteer State, his passion for volunteering, his future goals in the sports landscape, and so much more!

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Everything Orange | VFL Peyton Manning

Thu, 24 Aug 2023 08:00:00 +0000

A legendary first episode of Everything Orange - VFL Peyton Manning joins the podcast! During this premiere episode, Peyton shares his thoughts on the success across all Tennessee's athletic programs, what Tennessee means to him, why he continually gives back to his alma mater in more ways than one, his latest announcement of becoming a professor, and so much more!

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The Slice | Season 2 Finale - Mailbag!

Mon, 02 Aug 2021 16:17:00 +0000

Thanks for joining us all year long for Season 2 of The Slice! Before fall camp gears up, Cedric Tillman, Jacob Warren, K'Rojhn Calbert, Paxton Brooks, and Matthew Butler sat down with Kasey to answer your questions, talk food, movies, and more.

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The Slice | Alontae Taylor, K'Rojhn Calbert, and Paxton Brooks in Belize

Mon, 19 Jul 2021 16:16:00 +0000

Kasey just got back from a 12 day trip to Belize with a group of Tennessee student-athletes, and it was unbelievable. This was the annual VOLeaders Academy trip. Student-athletes selected to be VOLeaders learn how to be a positive force for their team, campus, and communities by using their platform in sport. It's a highly selective class where only a few athletes from all Tennessee sports teams are chosen for each year’s cohort. VOLeaders is a year-long course designed to teach personal and socially responsible leadership in sport. The program culminates in a 12-day cultural exchange where the student-athletes travel abroad and serve in the local community. Paxton Brooks, K'Rojhn Calbert, and Alontae Taylor represented the football team, and each day we were able to catch up and talk about their experience serving in Belize.

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The Slice | Paxton Brooks

Mon, 12 Jul 2021 16:14:00 +0000

Paxton Brooks's journey to playing SEC football began on the soccer pitch. His transition to the gridiron eventually landed him as the No. 2 punter in the 2018 class. Since arriving on Tennessee's campus, Paxton has been a crucial member of the specialist unit, handling kickoff duties for four straight years. In this episode, Paxton gives an inside look into Coach Mike Ekeler's special teams meetings, why the specialist group should be mic'd up, and more.

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The Slice | Cedric Tillman

Mon, 05 Jul 2021 16:13:00 +0000

Cedric Tillman is looking to make his mark on the 2021 Tennessee Volunteers as a leader and playmaker. The Las Vegas native came to Knoxville as only one of four Tennessee Football players to come from the state of Nevada. In his first two years at Tennessee, Cedric was mentored by VFLs Josh Palmer, Marquez Callaway, and Jauan Jennings. Now, he's looking to put those lessons in action as he helps lead the wideout group.

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The Slice | Jabari Small

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 16:12:00 +0000

Sophomore running back Jabari Small grew up under the constant influence of SEC football. The Memphis native's dad and uncles were standout wide receivers at their respective schools, and Jabari now hopes to make his impact at Tennessee. Kasey and Jabari discuss the running back room, running backs coach Jerry Mack, and the new Tennessee offense under Josh Heupel.

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The Slice | LaTrell Bumphus

Mon, 21 Jun 2021 16:10:00 +0000

LaTrell Bumphus grew up as a Tennessee fan in small-town West Tennessee. Now, he's living his dream as a Volunteer. In this episode, Kasey and the fifth-year defensive lineman talk about when football "clicked for him," recovering from injury, his role as a leader, and what's ahead for the Vols.

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The Slice | Trevon Flowers

Sun, 09 May 2021 16:09:00 +0000

Senior Defensive Back Trevon Flowers grew up in Atlanta, and until his senior year of high school, he was committed to play college baseball. A change of heart led him to Rocky Top, where last season he ranked second on the team in tackles. This spring has given Trevon a chance to step up as a leader, grow as a person, and embrace change. Hear more about his journey in this week's episode of The Slice.

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The Slice | Jacob Warren

Sun, 02 May 2021 16:08:00 +0000

With spring practice behind him, Jacob Warren is continuing to work on his game and leadership skills ahead of the 2021 season. The redshirt junior appeared in all 10 games during the 2020 season, and started to see more action towards the end of the season, where he recorded his first career touchdown after a 33-yard catch and run versus Texas A&M. In this episode, Jacob talks about his versatility as a tight end, how he fits into Coach Heupel's explosive offense, and how the off season has prepared him to take on a bigger leadership role.

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The Slice | Theo Jackson

Sun, 25 Apr 2021 16:06:00 +0000

Veteran defensive back Theo Jackson is working to grow as a leader under new head coach Josh Heupel. Theo, who has played in 44 games and made 12 starts throughout his career, finished the 2020 season with 31 tackles, including a career high 10 tackles, and recovered his first career fumble against Alabama. For his final season on Rocky Top, the Nashville native will play for Coach Martinez, who originally recruited Jackson to Tennessee in high school. You'll also get to hear about spring practice and the fun Theo and his teammates are having under the new staff.

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The Slice | Velus Jones Jr.

Sun, 04 Apr 2021 16:03:00 +0000

Graduate transfer wide receiver and return specialist Velus Jones Jr. is taking advantage of his free year of eligibility and is ready for his second season as a Vol. Velus finished the 2020 season ranking top three in receptions, receiving yards, receiving touchdowns, and finished first in kickoff return yards for the Vols. Not only did he put up numbers for Tennessee, but he became a leader and used his experience to help Tennessee's young group of wideouts. This season, Jones Jr. is looking to continue to grow as a leader and compete in Coach Heupel's offense, which he describes as "a wide receiver's dream."

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The Slice | Offensive Coordinator Alex Golesh

Sun, 07 Mar 2021 16:02:00 +0000

Alex Golesh begins his first year on Rocky Top as Tennessee’s offensive coordinator and tight ends coach. In this episode, Coach Golesh talks about immigrating to the United States at the age of seven, how he found his love of football and how that love led him to coaching. He also talks about the people who influenced him, how he has developed as a coach and why he wants to use football to develop young men.

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The Slice | Director of Athletics Danny White

Sun, 28 Feb 2021 16:00:00 +0000

Dr. Danny White boasts a literal lifetime experience in intercollegiate athletics and he's bringing his innovative and competitive spirit to Rocky Top. The Vice Chancellor and Director of Athletics sits down with Kasey to talk about his journey to becoming Tennessee's AD. He talks about what it was like growing up with a dad who was also an Athletic Director and how he himself got involved in athletic administration. He also discusses his time as an AD at Buffalo and UCF and how those stops prepared him for Tennessee, the vision he has for Tennessee Athletics, and what his first month has been like since becoming a Vol.

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The Slice | Head Coach Josh Heupel

Sun, 07 Feb 2021 15:58:00 +0000

Head Coach Josh Heupel is committed to bringing championships back to Rocky Top. In this episode you'll hear about his journey to finding success in his own football career, how his coaching career began and what he wants to build at Tennessee. You'll also get to hear about his family, why he thinks football should be fun, and what he's learned during his first week on the job.

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The Slice | Bonus: Quavaris Crouch and Elijah Simmons

Fri, 30 Oct 2020 15:56:00 +0000

The Slice is back with a bye week bonus episode. Quavaris Crouch and Elijah Simmons join Kasey during the bye week to talk about the transition from freshman to sophomore year and the back half of the 2020 season.

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The Slice | Bonus: Trevon Flowers, Theo Jackson, and Jarrett Guarantano

Sat, 26 Sep 2020 15:54:00 +0000

2020 Preseason Special: We made it to game day! Before the Vols face-off against South Carolina, Kasey is joined by Trevon Flowers, Theo Jackson, and Jarrett Guarantano to talk about fall camp and their mindset heading into the season.

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The Slice | Can We Be Real? - Season Finale Part Two

Mon, 06 Jul 2020 15:52:00 +0000

In part two of our season finale, members of the Tennessee Football program continue a discussion on racism, changes they want to see in their communities, and how they plan to be a part of it. You'll also hear about the new Culture Committee and how the players plan to use their platform to create conversations and change. Vice Chancellor for Diversity and Engagement Tyvi Small also joins us.

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The Slice | Can We Be Real? - Season Finale Part One

Mon, 29 Jun 2020 15:51:00 +0000

The purpose of The Slice is to bring you all a slice of our players lives, but in this episode we are bringing you a slice that is usually hidden. The murder of George Floyd and subsequent protests have brought to life an ugly American truth: the open wound of racism. This is a truth lived by our Black student-athletes every day. In part one of our two-part series "Can We Be Real?" we have members of the Tennessee Football program who want their voices to be heard on this issue. We want to warn listeners that this episode contains sensitive content including stories of racism and racial slurs.

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The Slice | Matthew Butler

Mon, 22 Jun 2020 15:49:00 +0000

Senior defensive lineman Matthew Butler is heading into the 2020 season ready to give his all for Tennessee. The North Carolina native led all Tennessee defensive linemen with 45 tackles during the 2019 season, ranking seventh overall among the Vols. Matt is also an off-the-field standout who was a member of the 2018-2019 Vol Leaders Academy. In this episode, Matt goes into detail about his experience with Vol Leaders and how their trip to Rwanda changed his outlook on life.

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The Slice | Brent Cimaglia

Mon, 15 Jun 2020 15:48:00 +0000

Brent Cimaglia has gone from being told "you're not good enough" by his middle school coach to becoming one of the best kickers to ever wear the orange and white. During the 2019 season, Brent captured All-SEC Second Team honors after ending the season ranked second in the league in both field goals made and field goal percentage. His outstanding performance led him to complete one of the greatest seasons ever by a Tennessee kicker. In this episode, you'll learn about the highs and lows that have gotten Brent to where he is today, the brotherhood of the specialist group, and how he plans to lead in his last season on Rocky Top.

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The Slice | Wanya Morris

Mon, 08 Jun 2020 15:46:00 +0000

Wanya Morris proved to be one of the best true freshmen offensive linemen in the nation during the 2019 season after starting 12 of 13 games, and collecting SEC All-Freshman accolades and True Freshman All-American honors from 247Sports. Wanya, along with the entire offensive line, helped paved the way for a season-high 297 yard rushing performance against Vanderbilt. In this episode, Wanya talks about his freshman season and who influenced him the most growing up. You'll also get to hear about his relationship with his teammates and why he wanted to play for Coach Jeremy Pruitt.

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The Slice | Brandon Johnson

Mon, 01 Jun 2020 15:45:00 +0000

Brandon Johnson will enter the 2020 season as one of the most experienced players on Tennessee's team. After playing four games, then redshirting for the remainder of the 2019 season, Brandon wants to make sure he is being the leader his team needs for his final season on Rocky Top. In this episode, you'll learn more about Brandon's childhood and what it was like growing up with a dad in the MLB, how football became his one true love, and the home atmosphere he feels at Tennessee.

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The Slice | Brandon Kennedy

Mon, 25 May 2020 15:43:00 +0000

After a season-ending injury in 2018, Brandon Kennedy came into the 2019 season as one of the biggest leaders of the Vols offensive line. He paved the way for some of Tennessee's biggest rushing and passing performances of last season, and did so while also competing in the classroom and earning his Master's Degree in Sport Psychology. Kennedy is now coming back for his sixth season of eligibility because he believes there is more work to be done. In this episode, you'll learn about Brandon's selflessness, his love of watching film and why Tennessee was the best fit for him and his education.

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The Slice | Bonus: Gus Duggerton

Fri, 22 May 2020 15:42:00 +0000

Bonus Episode: Kasey is joined by Big Cat, the co-host of the popular Barstool Sports podcast Pardon My Take. Also known as Coach Gus Duggerton, Big Cat discusses who the fictitious college coach is, how he came to be head coach of the Vols on his NCAA Football 14 campaign, and his plans for the season.

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The Slice | Eric Gray

Mon, 18 May 2020 15:40:00 +0000

Eric Gray will head into his sophomore season with high expectations after a stellar freshman year. Gray was a huge contributor in Tennessee's last two games of the 2019 season, after rushing for 246 yards in the Vols' win against Vanderbilt, the most by any true freshman, and scoring the game-winning touchdown in the Taxslayer Gator Bowl. The sophomore running back talks about the ups and downs of his freshman year and how he developed through his first year of college football. You'll also get to hear about why he decided to stay in-state and why coming to Tennessee was the best decision for him.

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The Slice | Alontae Taylor

Mon, 11 May 2020 15:38:00 +0000

Alontae Taylor was an instrumental part of Tennessee's season-ending six-game winning streak. The junior cornerback started playing on the defensive side of the ball once he got to UT and has now become one of the most valuable players in the Vols' secondary. Alontae talks about learning a new position and how Coach Pruitt has made him a better player. He talks about everything from growing up in a small town to becoming the Vice-Chairman of the SEC Leadership Council.

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The Slice | Josh Palmer

Mon, 04 May 2020 15:33:00 +0000

Josh Palmer is returning as the top receiver for the Vols in 2020 after having an impressive junior season, tallying 34 receptions to go along with 457 yards and one touchdown. In this episode, you will learn more about Josh’s work ethic, leadership skills, growing up in Canada and his Jamaican background.

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The Slice | Trey Smith

Mon, 27 Apr 2020 15:18:00 +0000

Trey Smith is a standout offensive lineman who returned from a career threatening injury to capture All-SEC First Team honors in 2019. Trey made the decision to come back for his senior season to obtain his degree, improve his draft stock and help lead this Tennessee football team. His college journey has not been easy by any means and it’s something we dive into during Episode 2 of The Slice. You’ll also get to hear about Trey’s journey to Tennessee, how his family helped shape him into who he is today, and what kept him motivated during uncertain times.

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The Slice | Henry To’o To’o

Mon, 20 Apr 2020 15:12:00 +0000

Henry To'o To'o had one of the best freshman seasons out of any player in the country. He came in second on the team in tackles and ended the season hungry for more. In our first episode of The Slice, we caught up with Henry and recapped his first season under Coach Pruitt, what the recruiting process with Tennessee was like and checked in to see how he's been doing since moving back home due to COVID-19.

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