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  • Ricky Watters: From Notre Dame Champion to NFL Star

    Ricky Watters: From Notre Dame Champion to NFL Star
    2025/06/20
    Welcome to Nithin's Sports Rush. In this episode, host Domenik Hixon interviews Ricky Watters, a notable NFL running back known for his time with the San Francisco 49ers, Philadelphia Eagles, and Seattle Seahawks. Ricky's journey began in Pennsylvania, where he developed the resilience and determination that propelled him through a successful college career at Notre Dame and into the professional ranks, earning championships both in college and the NFL.

    During their conversation, Ricky discusses key moments and challenges that shaped his career. He reflects on the influence of his parents, his transition from local playgrounds to the national stage, and his experiences alongside football legends like Barry Sanders and Emmitt Smith.

    The discussion also covers Ricky’s life after football, including his dedication to community service, his work as an author, and the family values that continue to guide him. This interview offers valuable insights for football fans and anyone interested in stories of perseverance and achievement.

    Richard James Watters, born April 7, 1969, had a distinguished career as a running back in the NFL and remains an influential figure both on and off the field.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:26 - "My Parents' Impact on My Path"
    04:29 - Rough Childhood Football Memories
    07:57 - "How I Fell in Love with Football"
    12:27 - "Discipline and Team Unity"
    14:32 - Career Milestones in Football
    17:24 - Winning Hearts On and Off Field
    19:56 - Heartfelt Story's Impact
    21:25 - Outro

    Quotes:

    "Believe in yourself, work hard, and stay resilient—you can achieve anything."- Ricky Watters

    "You deserve celebration not only for your success but also for inspiring others to persevere."- Nithin Ramachandra

    Key Takeaways:

    The Power of Roots and Family Support
    Lessons Learned Beyond the Game
    Mentorship and Teamwork Matter
    Championship Mentality On and Off the Field
    Gratitude and Giving Back
    Legacy Beyond Awards
    Living with Purpose

    Connect with Ricky Watters:

    LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rickywatters
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rickywatters
    Website: https://www.rickywatters.com/

    Connect with the Host:

    Audible: https://www.audible.co.uk/podcast/Nithins-Sports-Rush/B0DNY47YCT
    LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/nithin-ramachandra-b01131148
    Website: https://nithinssportsrush.com/
    Spreaker: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nithin-s-sports-rush--4969920/
    Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/show/6qGTAZeyi25BRAACMsyklB?si=CviZCDDnSxmnaJWPW1drHQ

    Powered by: http://heartcastmedia.com/

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nithin-s-sports-rush--4969920/support.
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    22 分
  • Leadership, Legacy, and Life After the NFL with Lorenzo Alexander

    Leadership, Legacy, and Life After the NFL with Lorenzo Alexander
    2025/06/04
    Join host Nithin Ramachandra as he speaks with former NFL linebacker Lorenzo Alexander, an undrafted player from California who built a 15-year career through determination and adaptability. Lorenzo shares experiences from his time with teams like the Buffalo Bills and Washington Commanders.The conversation explores Lorenzo's journey from Oakland to Cal, the impact of mentors and youth camps on his development, and his initiative to honor first responders by wearing a firefighter helmet during games. He highlights the significance of community, faith, and mentorship in his life.Lorenzo also discusses his dedication to coaching young athletes through football camps, overcoming challenges, and transitioning from professional play to guiding the next generation. Additionally, he offers insights into football culture, memorable NFL rivalries, leadership strategies, and moments that brought humor to his teams.This episode provides a comprehensive look into Lorenzo Alexander’s career, emphasizing the importance of perseverance, community involvement, and using sports as a platform for positive change. Whether you're a dedicated Bills Mafia member or interested in inspiring sports journeys, this episode has something for you.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction00:29 - Firefighters Inspire Athlete's Leadership Journey06:32 - "Journey to Football Success"09:16 - "Commitment, Gratitude, and Giving Back"10:41 - "Choosing Home Over Recruitment Trips"16:08 - Eyes Trained by Greats18:47 - "Washington and Buffalo's Impact on Me"19:54 - "Family and Bills Mafia Bond"23:40 - Meeting Legends and Competing Nationwide27:18 - Underrated Quarterback and Team Synergy30:19 - Compete Without Fear34:40 - Relentless Competitor's Work Ethic37:23 - Demar's Remarkable Comeback40:43 - Empowering Athletes for Life Transitions44:35 - Faith and Sports: A Unified Approach45:58 - Football Camps with Pro Players48:21 - "Let's Start, Bro"49:23 - OutroQuotes:"Football shapes our character. I hope every young athlete embraces challenges and makes a lasting impact on and off the field."- Lorenzo Alexander"Learning from legends shows us that true greatness is measured by the impact we have on others."- Nithin RamachandraKey Takeaways:From Undrafted to UnstoppableGiving Back Bigger Than the GameInspired by ServiceVersatility and AdaptabilityFootball as FamilyRole Models MatterFaith and LeadershipTurning Adversity into PurposeStaying True and Staying GratefulLegacy in ActionConnect with Lorenzo Alexander:LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/lorenzo-alexander-10498945?Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/lorenzo_john?igsh=MXQ5Mmw0NnIyaGk2NQ==Website: https://lorenzoalexander.org/apasm25/?fbclid=PAQ0xDSwKdTLNleHRuA2FlbQIxMQABp2Xi3HNSEO11Uc1G0x9uJnf7pula4iO_T1CYCxy97xnpJQmwQyjO-XqwgZfh_aem_mqCuPPm16DpZh1_qjUsw4AConnect with the Host:https://www.audible.co.uk/podcast/Nithins-Sports-Rush/B0DNY47YCThttp://linkedin.com/in/nithin-ramachandra-b01131148https://nithinssportsrush.com/https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nithin-s-sports-rush--4969920/https://open.spotify.com/show/6qGTAZeyi25BRAACMsyklB?si=CviZCDDnSxmnaJWPW1drHQPowered by: http://heartcastmedia.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nithin-s-sports-rush--4969920/support.
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    50 分
  • From Family Legacy to the Buffalo Bills – A Journey of Faith, Grit, and Growth with Cam Lockridge

    From Family Legacy to the Buffalo Bills – A Journey of Faith, Grit, and Growth with Cam Lockridge
    2025/05/13
    Join Nithin Ramachandra on Nithin’s Sports Rush as he welcomes Cam Lockridge, a defensive back whose journey from Tampa, Florida, to the Buffalo Bills is a testament to relentless perseverance. From an early age, Cam was influenced by his family's rich legacy in sports, being the grandson of Ken Griffey Sr. and the nephew of Ken Griffey Jr. This heritage instilled in him a profound love for the game and a drive to excel.

    In this episode, Cam opens up about his formative years at Ridley College, Hawaii, and Fresno State, where he honed his skills and developed the resilience needed to navigate the competitive world of football. Despite going undrafted, Cam's unwavering determination and hard work earned him a spot with the Buffalo Bills, showcasing that with dedication, dreams can become reality.

    Listeners will gain exclusive insights into the challenges Cam faced, the pivotal moments that shaped his career, and the passion that fuels his commitment to the sport. Whether you're a Bills fan, follow college football closely, or are inspired by stories of grit and ambition, Cam Lockridge’s story offers valuable lessons and heartfelt moments that resonate deeply.

    Don't miss this compelling conversation that highlights the true spirit of overcoming obstacles and achieving greatness through steadfast effort.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:26 - "Ronde Barber's Influence on Football Aspirations"
    05:41 - Born for Sports, Chose Football
    08:01 - Professional Mindset Influences Athletic Career
    13:43 - Choosing Hawaii Over Dixie State
    15:39 - From Junior College to Division One
    17:41 - Welcoming Culture in Palolo Valley
    22:49 - "Claiming Number One Jersey"
    24:46 - "Fueling the Fire After Injury"
    28:26 - Draft Experience: Uncertainty and Faith
    32:51 - Surreal Dream Fulfilled
    34:27 - Rookie Eager to Learn NFL
    39:06 - "Faithful, Family-Oriented Hobbyist"
    41:33 - Hardworking Playmaker's Ambition
    42:14 - Outro

    Quotes:

    "Keep grinding and believe—adversity builds champions."- Cam Lockridge

    "With passion, heart, and family, anything is achievable."- Nithin Ramachandra

    Key Takeaways:

    A Journey Defined by Resilience
    Family Legacy and Inspiration
    Embracing Adversity
    Multi-Sport Athlete Mentality
    A True Student of the Game
    Underrated, Undaunted
    Faith and Family First
    Ready to Make an Impact in Buffalo
    A Message to Bills Mafia
    Living Proof That Dreams Are Built, Not Given

    Connect with Cam Lockridge:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/camlockridge?igsh=cDJkajU1YTNsdnZk

    Connect with the Host:
    https://www.audible.co.uk/podcast/Nithins-Sports-Rush/B0DNY47YCT
    http://linkedin.com/in/nithin-ramachandra-b01131148
    https://nithinssportsrush.com/
    https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nithin-s-sports-rush--4969920/
    https://open.spotify.com/show/6qGTAZeyi25BRAACMsyklB?si=CviZCDDnSxmnaJWPW1drHQ

    Powered by: http://heartcastmedia.com

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nithin-s-sports-rush--4969920/support.
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    43 分
  • From Philly Streets to Heavyweight Champion with Tim Witherspoon

    From Philly Streets to Heavyweight Champion with Tim Witherspoon
    2025/05/06
    Welcome back to Nithin’s Sports Rush. In today’s episode, host Nithin Ramachandra interviews Tim Witherspoon, a two-time heavyweight boxing champion. Tim shares his journey from South Philadelphia, detailing his early challenges with neighborhood gangs and his experiences in the Italian market. He discusses his transition from football to boxing and recounts his time in the ring alongside prominent figures like Mike Tyson, Larry Holmes, and Evander Holyfield.

    Tim highlights the mentors who played a pivotal role in his development, keeping him focused and guiding him toward success. He offers insights into significant moments that defined his career and provides behind-the-scenes stories from training camps with legends such as Muhammad Ali. Throughout the conversation, Tim reflects on his victories, setbacks, and the realities of the boxing world both inside and outside the ring. He also discusses the making of a major boxing documentary that captures his storied career.

    This episode delivers a blend of inspiration and history, appealing to boxing enthusiasts and anyone interested in a compelling comeback story.

    Chapters:

    00:00 – Introduction
    00:29 – Tim Witherspoon Joins the Show
    04:19 – "South Philly Roots and Football"
    07:23 – Finding Good Trainers at Gyms
    11:03 – "Peter Iskin's Impact on Community"
    15:08 – Leaving for a Boxing Opportunity
    19:14 – Sparring with a Sick Ali
    21:18 – Ali's Decline Against Holmes
    23:36 – "Trainer's Confidence Spurs Fighter"
    27:14 – "Almost Won the Title"
    31:11 – "Boxing Career Documentary Unveiled"
    34:53 – "Unexpected Boxing Journey"
    37:36 – Don King's Unexpected Camp Visit
    38:55 – "Don King Signs Tyson"
    43:03 – "Boxing Match: Controversial Knockdown"
    47:12 – Training Disconnect in Modern Boxing
    48:52 – Uncertain Boxing Trainers Today
    52:12 – Guidance from Experience
    54:59 – "Let's Catch Up Soon"
    55:12 – Outro

    Quotes:

    "Grateful for the people who kept me on the right path. Being a champion is about the journey and those who support you."- Tim Witherspoon

    "Champions' stories go beyond wins and losses. They’re about the people, memories, and legacies that make their journeys legendary."- Nithin Ramachandra

    Key Takeaways:

    The Power of Mentorship
    Resilience Through Adversity
    Learning from Legends
    The Old School Advantage
    Underdog Stories & Historic Fights
    Knowledge for the Next Generation
    Living the “Philly Shell”
    Cherishing Community and Legacy
    Giving Back

    Connect with Tim Witherspoon:

    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/officiallytimwitherspoon?igsh=MWx2cXBhZm5ienM1cQ==

    Connect with the Host:

    https://www.audible.co.uk/podcast/Nithins-Sports-Rush/B0DNY47YCT
    http://linkedin.com/in/nithin-ramachandra-b01131148
    https://nithinssportsrush.com/
    https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nithin-s-sports-rush--4969920/
    https://open.spotify.com/show/6qGTAZeyi25BRAACMsyklB?si=CviZCDDnSxmnaJWPW1drHQ

    Powered by: http://heartcastmedia.com

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nithin-s-sports-rush--4969920/support.
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    56 分
  • Journey of a Dolphin: O.J. McDuffie's Rise from Penn State to the NFL

    Journey of a Dolphin: O.J. McDuffie's Rise from Penn State to the NFL
    2025/04/23
    Welcome back to Nithin's Sports Rush. In this episode, host Nithin Ramachandra interviews Miami Dolphins veteran O.J. McDuffie. They explore O.J.'s athletic background in Ohio, his record-setting career at Penn State, and his first-round selection by the Miami Dolphins in the 1993 NFL draft. O.J. shares his draft day experience, his collaboration with Dan Marino, and the transition from Ohio's climate to Miami's environment.The discussion covers O.J.'s nine seasons with the Dolphins, his relationship with Marino, and the competitive dynamics of the AFC East. He addresses challenges faced against top defensive backs, offers advice for aspiring athletes, and provides insights into current draft prospects and strategies for the Dolphins' improvement.Additionally, listeners learn about O.J.'s personal life, including his family's influence and his interest in bowling, as well as his podcast, The Fish Tank 81, co-hosted with Seth Levitt. This conversation highlights the key moments and challenges that shaped O.J.'s professional football career.O.J. McDuffie, born Otis James McDuffie on December 2, 1969, is a former NFL wide receiver who spent eight seasons with the Miami Dolphins. Drafted in the first round of the 1993 NFL draft, he set several receiving records at Penn State University and was a preferred target of Dan Marino during his time with the Dolphins.Chapters:00:00 - Introduction00:26 - "Fulfilling an NFL Dream"04:10 - "Drafted by Dolphins: A Dream Call"09:36 - Balancing Multi-Sport Athletic Life12:15 - Meeting Madden Heroes in Real Life13:40 - Ohio State vs. Penn State Rivalry18:37 - Rookie's Rise Through Key Returns21:31 - "Eighty-One: My Lucky Number"24:20 - Seamless Transition Between Legendary Coaches27:58 - Unfulfilled Sports Achievements Reflective31:28 - "Special Teams: Key to NFL Careers"35:08 - Focus on Defensive Draft Strategy38:03 - Bowling Nostalgia and Professional Journey40:46 - Unsung Heroes of the Dolphins42:45 - Jason Taylor Foundation Praised44:24 - OutroQuotes:“If you dream of the NFL, work hard for what you love. Opportunities will find you when you least expect them.”- O.J. McDuffie“Let your unique journey inspire others to pursue their dreams.”- Nithin RamachandraKey Takeaways:Living a Childhood DreamChoosing Penn State: The Power of Relationships and TraditionThe Impact of Multi-Sport AthleticsOn the Field with LegendsEmbracing the Grind and the WeatherCompeting in the AFC EastThe Importance of Special TeamsPlaying for One Team—And Leaving a LegacyBeyond the Game: Family and Giving BackThe Fish Tank 81: Keeping Stories AliveConnect with O.J. McDuffieLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/oj-mcduffie-42b717a?Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ojmcduffie?igsh=c3dhOGxpdjVoZG40Connect with the Host:https://www.audible.co.uk/podcast/Nithins-Sports-Rush/B0DNY47YCThttp://linkedin.com/in/nithin-ramachandra-b01131148https://nithinssportsrush.com/https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nithin-s-sports-rush--4969920/https://open.spotify.com/show/6qGTAZeyi25BRAACMsyklB?si=CviZCDDnSxmnaJWPW1drHQPowered by: http://heartcastmedia.comBecome a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nithin-s-sports-rush--4969920/support.
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    45 分
  • From MLB to Japan: Tony Barnette’s Baseball Journey

    From MLB to Japan: Tony Barnette’s Baseball Journey
    2025/04/15
    Welcome to "Nithin's Sports Rush," featuring former MLB pitcher Tony Barnette. Host Nithin Ramachandra guides listeners through Tony’s path from playing T-ball to competing on international platforms. Tony discusses his experiences in both Major League Baseball and Japan's Nippon Professional Baseball league, highlighting the challenges and achievements he encountered. From admiring Ken Griffey Jr. in his youth to closing crucial games in Tokyo and making his major league debut against his hometown team, the Seattle Mariners, Tony exemplifies resilience and adaptability. The conversation also covers his interactions with different cultures, his perspectives on the evolving game of baseball, and his journey in authoring a book about his career. Listen as Tony Barnette shares insights into his life on and off the field in this inaugural episode.

    Chapters:

    00:00 - Introduction
    00:23 - "Baseball Journey: College to MLB"
    04:52 - Childhood Dreams, Baseball Realities
    08:58 - "Transformation Under Coach's Guidance"
    09:49 - Betting on Myself in Baseball
    12:56 - Baseball Lingo Challenges for Translators
    18:34 - "Relishing the Adrenaline of Game Closures"
    21:07 - "Closing Talent Gap in Japanese Baseball"
    25:22 - Five-Pitch Mix Dominance
    26:36 - Winning Boosted Confidence and Team Spirit
    31:35 - "Baseball Memories and Forgotten Legends"
    33:54 - Baseball's Ever-Turning Legacy
    36:20 - From Japan to MLB: A Journey
    41:02 - Unlocking New Recruiting Potential
    42:51 - Widely Available Everywhere
    46:51 - Pitchers Debate Bat Specifications
    49:45 - "Tony Barnett Show Finale Thanks"
    50:54 - Outro

    Quotes:

    "Your sports journey is defined by passion, stories, and the legacy you create."- Nithin Ramachandra

    "Adapt and believe in yourself; the less traveled path often leads to great victories."- Tony Barnette

    Key Takeaways:

    A Journey Beyond Borders
    Facing the Giants
    A Lesson in Adaptability
    Cultural Exchange
    Chasing Excellence
    From Pages to Inspiration
    The Thrill of Closing
    A Family Affair
    Perspective on Change

    Check out Tony Barnette's book: https://a.co/d/8QwRaBG

    Connect with Tony Barnette
    LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/tony-barnette-a09a7b39
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tony.barnette?igsh=ZDJyNHB1MTVsMWxm
    Email: tony.barnette@gmail.com

    Connect with the Host:
    https://www.audible.co.uk/podcast/Nithins-Sports-Rush/B0DNY47YCT
    http://linkedin.com/in/nithin-ramachandra-b01131148
    https://nithinssportsrush.com/
    https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nithin-s-sports-rush--4969920/
    https://open.spotify.com/show/6qGTAZeyi25BRAACMsyklB?si=CviZCDDnSxmnaJWPW1drHQ

    Powered by: http://heartcastmedia.com

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nithin-s-sports-rush--4969920/support.
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    51 分
  • The Untold Story of Corey Webster's NFL Journey and Super Bowl Triumphs

    The Untold Story of Corey Webster's NFL Journey and Super Bowl Triumphs
    2025/03/04
    Welcome to another exciting episode of Nithin's Sports Rush! I'm your host, Nithya Ramachandra, and today I am thrilled to bring you a very special guest—none other than two-time Super Bowl champion Corey Webster. As a former NFL cornerback who spent his entire career with the New York Giants, Corey has an impressive story to share. In this episode, he'll take us through his early life in Louisiana, his journey through high school and college football at LSU, and his illustrious career with the Giants, including those unforgettable Super Bowl victories against the Patriots. Plus, Corey gives us insight into his life after football, working with youth and sharing his wisdom with the next generation. This is an episode you won't want to miss, so buckle up and tune in now!


    Chapters:
    00:00 - Introduction
    06:19 - "Embracing Versatile Athletic Skills"
    08:58 - "Discouraging Bulletin Board Material"
    13:17 - Origin of Wildcat Offensive Formation
    15:20 - Choosing Basketball Over Quarterback Journey
    17:11 - LSU's Star-Studded Legacy
    22:00 - Multi-Sport Recruitment Challenges
    23:45 - Recruiting Changes and Personal Decisions
    29:19 - LSU's Rise to Football Prominence
    31:32 - "Importance of Leaving a Legacy"
    34:09 - No Grudges, Just Acceptance
    36:50 - "Key Interception and Leadership Moment"
    41:51 - Football IQ and Adaptability
    45:32 - "Shining Light on Community and Growth"
    48:50 - Brady's 17-Point Prediction Laughed At
    51:16 - Journey of Self-Discovery and Healing
    55:28 - Draft QB to Rebuild Momentum
    56:43 - Corey Webster: Champion and Mentor
    57:11 - Outro

    Quotes:

    "It's not just about wins and losses. Sports shape our lives, uphold our values, and uplift others.”- Nithin Ramachandra
    "Embrace every opportunity, stay active, face challenges, and grow. The best is yet to come."- Corey Webster

    Connect with the Host:
    Audible: https://www.audible.co.uk/podcast/Nithins-Sports-Rush/B0DNY47YCT
    LinkedIn: http://linkedin.com/in/nithin-ramachandra-b01131148
    Website: https://nithinssportsrush.com/
    Spreaker: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nithin-s-sports-rush--4969920/

    Follow Corey Webster:
    Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/iamcweb?igsh=b3VocjdsZjFxeW4z

    Produced by Heartcast Media
    https://www.heartcastmedia.com

    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nithin-s-sports-rush--4969920/support.
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    42 分
  • From Underdog to NBA Champion and Motivational Speaker with Mike James

    From Underdog to NBA Champion and Motivational Speaker with Mike James
    2025/02/26
    Have you ever wondered what it takes to win an NBA championship and build a successful international career? Join me, Nithya Ramachandra, on Nithin's Sports Rush as we follow Mike James' remarkable journey from Duquesne University to the 2004 Detroit Pistons championship. Discover his experiences playing against legends like LeBron James and Kobe Bryant, the challenges of moving between teams and cities, and the invaluable lessons learned from coach Larry Brown. Dive into the stories that reveal the dedication and resilience behind one of basketball's most intriguing careers.

    Highlights:
    00:00 - Introduction
    01:47 - Early Season Injuries Discussion
    09:44 - Resilient Team Maintains Winning Momentum
    11:33 - Team Preparation and Competition Focus
    19:12 - Self-Empowerment: Embrace Emotional Autonomy
    23:43 - No Honor in Player Trades
    27:28 - Underdog Proves MVP Potential
    32:29 - Regret Overlooking Cultural Experience
    39:42 - Elevator Confrontation with Pen
    48:12 - Full-Court Defensive Pressure Strategy
    53:08 - Teamwork Doubts and Misunderstandings
    55:11 - Chasing Record: 8 Threes Made
    01:01:46 - A Team of Strong Individuals
    01:04:28 - Inspirational Mental Health Advocate
    01:05:02 - Outro

    Quotes:

    "Let your inner strength shape who you are, not others' opinions."- Nithin Ramachandra

    "Earn respect through relentless dedication and proving your worth every moment."- Mike James

    Connect with the Host:

    Audible
    LinkedIn
    Website
    Spreaker


    Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/nithin-s-sports-rush--4969920/support.
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    1 時間 4 分