Pivot Podcast

Former MLB All-Star, Matt Kemp, shares his journey from a small town to the big lights of LA, reflecting on the challenges of fame & life post-retirement. He discusses missing out on the MVP award, dating Rihanna, African-American mentors in baseball, and the transition to golf. Kemp also touches on the emotional toll of leaving the baseball field, emphasizing mental toughness in sports.

Topics include controversial comments by an NFL player, nepotism in sports with Bronny James, competitive nature in the WNBA, financial literacy in athletics, sports betting predictions, and reflections on suicide prevention and mental health support

Knicks star Josh Hart discusses his journey to NY, team's culture impact, and emotions of being traded. He shares insights on playoff run, Coach Tom Thibodeau, and finding a true home. Hart reflects on high school years, lessons from becoming an Eagle Scout, and reveals NBA Finals picks.

Former NFL player Robbie Chosen reflects on his journey from undrafted free agent to successful wide receiver. He shares about his tough upbringing, personal growth, and overcoming setbacks. Robbie discusses his faith, name change, and plans for the future, emphasizing resilience and gratitude.

NBA star DeMar DeRozan opens up about mental health, Kobe Bryant's influence, and never giving up. He shares stories from growing up in Compton, his trade to the Spurs, and the importance of being seen as a human being. DeRozan reflects on his journey, legacy, and advocacy for mental health awareness.

Tom Brady, 7-time Super Bowl champion, reflects on life post-football, letting go of control, personal growth, and lessons learned. He discusses fatherhood, childhood dreams, and evolving as a man. The podcast delves deep into his journey, family time, and striving for improvement.

From massive rap beefs to the Roast of Tom Brady and a full media debate between football and basketball players, it’s been a week full of different controversies in pop culture. Ryan, Channing and Fred are back themselves to check in on one another and give their takes on some of the biggest stories. First, it's caps off to congratulate Freddy T, who full-filled a promise to his late grandmother of going back to college after 26 years to get his degree, a special moment for Fred and his family as well as our Pivot Family, sending an invaluable message to so many.The comedy and football scenes had a crossover with Netflix releasing the much-anticipated Roast of Tom Brady, and the guys give their reactions to the show. NFL locker rooms can have roast sessions of their own, but Ryan talks about why he could never be associated with an event like that. Channing is in the comedy scene himself, though, and he discusses how the comedians changed the way the roast was approached.In another major American sport, Austin Rivers made headlines with comments that said there are many more basketball players who could play football than vice versa. The guys agree that both take athleticism and skill, but Ryan and Fred emphasize that the difference between the sports comes from the culture of toughness, and that NBA guys could not take hits like them.In wrapping up with a talk about the Drake and Kendrick rap beef, the trio talk about how Kendrick won the battle itself before mentioning the bigger culture surrounding hip-hop. Many people attach themselves to certain figures in the spotlight, and The Pivot team is excited for fans to see what’s in store for them very soon...New episodes drop on Tuesdays at 12 p.m. ET and Fridays at 3:30 p.m ET on YouTube, with audio available on all streaming platforms.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Hall of Fame Wide Receiver Calvin Johnson, known as Megatron, discusses his career overcoming losing seasons and the 0-16 year in Detroit, promoting cannabis, family life, dangerous hobbies, and retiring before marriage. He values consistency over talent and reflects on excellence in all aspects of his life post-NFL.

Ryan, Channing and Fred sit with JJ Redick to talk about how his life has revolved around hoops since an early age and as many aspects have transcended and faded over time, his love for the game and desire to be close to the sport still drives him everyday. From Duke to the NBA to basketball analyst to podcaster, the guys get JJ to open up in ways he hasn't shared before diving into his who, his why and his how and what's helped propel a white boy from Tennessee to sustain a reputation of respect and stardom in a sometimes unforgiving world of professional basketball and now broadcast television. The recent launch of his podcast “Mind the Game” alongside LeBron James shines a light on JJ's basketball IQ, but on this episode of the Pivot, the guys go far beyond his success on the court and break down where JJ's mindset comes from.With the recent buzz around JJ's next basketball move in possibly becoming the head coach of the Charlotte Hornets, the choice may not be an easy one as the sharp shooter turned media star is fully aware of who he is and the life he's created after basketball through his various platforms and authentic relationships with current and former players alike.Redick knew he wanted to be a Blue Devil after watching the 1992 NCAA championship between Duke and Kentucky, but without cable TV and money to put towards the game, he felt somewhat detached from it, but it was his family who continued to support him to fulfill his childhood dream. JJ found pride in working out of adverse situations, and he talks with the guys about how he developed his motivation and never lost that chip on his shoulder. Channing jokes with JJ about his A-hole type persona that he gives off, understanding Duke basketball players are often viewed as the enemy as JJ shares how he became the center of hate during his time with the Blue Devils. Despite his NCAA scoring title and notoriety, Redick was underestimated coming out of Duke and struggled to find a secure place in the NBA for his first few years but managed to prevail with a 15 year career.Often looking back on what he didn't do vs what he did do, JJ points to several points in his life that he faced hardships, but his awareness, ability to constantly adapt and will to never be out-worked has brought him to the position he is today. Whether it was a missed shot in the 2004 NCAA finals against UConn or a 2009 Orlando Magic NBA Finals run, JJ has always had to bounce back from hard moments but one thing that has never been questioned is who he is as a leader on and off the court. A trusted voice during dark times, an advocate of right vs wrong and an innovator in the media space has elevated JJ to a place of respect and confidence that no matter what he says or does, he stands on it even if it's controversial or the unpopular thing to say.Sharing many similarities with Ryan in his approach to media and journalism with respect to athletes and stories surrounding the game, JJ was the first active NBA player to start a podcast in 2016, and since has become one of the most respected and watched tv analysts. As his massive rise in sports media continues, JJ is now a part of ESPN's No. 1 crew preparing to call the NBA Finals which if he had to predict could be a Denver vs Boston series, although he's not counting out Minnesota just yet.New episodes of The Pivot Podcast premiere every Tuesday at Noon est and Fridays at 3:30pm est. Make sure you’re subscribed to our YouTube Channel and wherever you listen to your podcasts so you don’t miss a single episode and follow us on Instagram, Twitter, and TikTok for all the best moments from the show Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Live from the NFL Draft in Detroit...watch with your favorite guys as we get into all the draft picks, stories and hear from the guys themselves after they get selected!Ryan, Channing and Fred are in Detroit with real time reactions to NFL draft night, stories and special guests. Dan Orlovsky joins the guys for the first few picks, talking Quarterbacks from Caleb Williams to Jayden Daniels to the surprise pick in Atlanta of Michael Pennix as the guys reflect on their own careers and families through playing in the NFL to now. Special guests stop by right after being drafted with personal conversations with Malik Nabers and Dallas Turner that really speak to their journeys and relationships with mentors.Hang with the guys in Detroit and catch all the action in real time and true reactions as the picks get announced! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices