エピソード

  • CC Sabathia's storied path to baseball Hall of Fame as the pitching ace opens up on fame, family, marriage, sobriety, lessons from Derek Jeter, Jay Z, being a Black icon in MLB to his pinstripe legacy in NY as a World Series Champion
    2025/07/25
    “I was in control of this whole thing, that was the most appealing part of being in NY- just pitching in the Bronx, having that energy and knowing it starts and stops with you is incredible.” CC Sabathia On this episode of The Pivot Podcast, hosts Ryan Clark, Fred Taylor, and Channing Crowder welcome pitcher CC Sabathia, as the guys dig into his storied career, personal journey, and the transition from elite athlete to mentor and icon. The conversation leads off recognizing Sabathia as a first-ballot Hall of Famer with a World Series Title capped by impressive career stats—250+ wins, 3,000+ strikeouts, a 3.74 ERA across 19 MLB seasons—as he talks about the baseball memories and personal journey from Cleveland to Milwaukee to New York and now in Cooperstown with baseball royalty. With his path rooted in family, starting with his father and mother's support from a young age to meeting his forever partner, Amber, as a teenager to growing his family and career together- it's not lost on CC that walking across the Hall of Fame stage is because of those close to him who's held him down through the highs and lows of life. With fame and success, comes a story of personal struggle and inner demons CC managed his entire baseball career. From a high school player to late in his career, the 6x All-Star and 2007 Cy Young winner talks about his addiction to alcohol, not seeing it as a problem and opens up on what finally made him enter rehab in October of 2015, stepping away from the game at a time his Yankees were making a final playoff push. He reveals his fears and struggles during that emotional time and shares how he was able to return to baseball better and stronger while remaining sober for the past decade. Ryan, Channing and Fred highlight Sabathia’s famous workhorse identity: a fierce competitor who often took short rest to support his teams. CC explains why teammate loyalty and responsibility always outweighed self-preservation but being available to play was always a priority. He talks about playing along side his Captain, Derek Jeter, and reveals aspects of Jeter that many don't talk about, calling him his best teammate he ever had. The life of the Big Apple and the spotlight that came with it from celebrity circles to high pressure to pure bliss....He shares how he has no regrets and that there was no better feeling than pitching in the Bronx in front of thousands, knowing that he was in control with it all starting and stopping with him. CC reflects on what it means to be one of only three Black pitchers in history to reach both 250 wins and 3,000 strikeouts, joining legends like Bob Gibson and Fergie Jenkins. He goes on to share how baseball has always been a sport for black athletes but not always black culture, which is something he is dedicated to increasing with his new role working with the MLB player alliance. He speaks on redirecting his leadership—once reserved for the mound—to his kids, sharing insights into fatherhood, sobriety, and purpose beyond baseball. This conversation is beyond baseball, it humanizes a legend through transparency and raw honesty. Comment below and share what you took away from this episode, for us, it unpacked a lot. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間 8 分
  • Claressa Shields the GWOAT, boxing's best, Laila Ali superfight, on overcoming trauma, silencing doubters, her relationship with Papoose, becoming a mother, defending her undisputed title July 26 & legacy.
    2025/07/22
    "The hardship and everything I went through created the fire inside, people don't understand the woman I am." Claressa Shields Heavyweight Undisputed Champion In this powerful, no-holds-barred episode of The Pivot Podcast, the GWOAT herself—Claressa Shields—joins Ryan Clark, Channing Crowder, and Fred Taylor for one of her most personal interviews to date. From surviving a tough upbringing in Flint, Michigan to becoming the only boxer—male or female—to be undisputed in two weight classes simultaneously, Claressa shares the raw truth behind her journey. She opens up about the pain that made her, the critics that tried to break her, and the constant pressure of being a Black woman at the top of one of the most male-dominated sports in the world. But it’s not all about the ring. In a deeply personal moment, Claressa reveals the reason behind two of her early dreams: Becoming an Olympic medalist and buying a bed. Sleeping on the floor most of her childhood and always having to fight for acceptance led her to fight for what she wanted. Claressa also lets us in on her private life—specifically her relationship with rapper and hip-hop legend Papoose. She talks about the bond they’ve built, what his steady support means to her, and how love and loyalty outside the ring fuel her fight inside of it, even opening up on motherhood in the near future. It’s a side of Claressa the public rarely sees—vulnerable, grounded, and deeply human. With her next undisputed title defense set for July 26 in Detroit, Claressa shares what’s driving her into this fight, why it feels more personal than ever, and how she's staying focused amid everything—from family to fame to legacy. She addresses the critics who’ve downplayed her success, and the media that still tries to put limits on her greatness while acknowledging that her journey is a lot like her male counterpart, Terrance Bud Crawford, who she calls he twin, not just in the fight game but in life too. This isn't just another sports interview. It's a real conversation with one of the most dominant and dynamic athletes of our time—who’s still fighting for her respect, her people, and her place in history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間 7 分
  • What's it like to really work with Adam Sandler? Inside the star studded cast of Happy Gilmore 2, Lavell Crawford and Kym Whitley on being disruptors in the film space, how 30 years later the classic is back with surprises dropping on Netflix July 25th
    2025/07/18
    Happy Gilmore is all about Happy who breaks the mold by changing the rules of golf and life. 30 years later, Adam Sandler is back with Happy Gilmore 2, starring some familiar faces from the original plus new cast additions but filled with star studded pop ups through out, never knowing who's going to be in one scene to the next with a storyline that really shakes things up! In the same spirit, our special episode of The Pivot in partnership with Netflix, is celebrating “disruptors” who much like Happy Gilmore, have made a tremendous impact in culture, sports and comedy. Filming in front of a live audience from our Happy Place at Top Golf, this episode is full of laughs, insights and unique life experiences. Sitting with comic legends Lavell Crawford and Kym Whitley, we are treated to an unfiltered conversation of not just making it in show business but staying there. We get inside scoop of what it's truly like being on set with Adam Sandler, pressure of working with a high profile cast, challenges of being a disruptor, pushback received and how to make it in a high-stakes world designed for failure. There is no shortage of banter between Channing and Lavell, as Ryan tries to keep it all flowing smoothly and Kym clings onto Fred's calming demeanor. Happy Gilmore 2 premieres on Netflix Friday July 25th and is truly a movie you don't want to miss with a firery cast of celebs, athletes and entertainers who complete part 2 of this story 30 years in the making! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    続きを読む 一部表示
    45 分
  • C.J. Gardner-Johnson Super Bowl Champion responds to recent backlash towards Eagles, issues a specific apology, talks misunderstood reputation, unexpected heartbreak, surprising trade to Houston, call from DeMeco Ryans and future as a Texan.
    2025/07/15
    “My son said, so we can’t wear green anymore? And that killed me.” -C.J. Gardner-Johnson In this humbling and unfiltered episode of The Pivot, Super Bowl Champion C.J. Gardner-Johnson sits down with Ryan Clark, Fred Taylor, and Channing Crowder to open up like never before and sets record straight on many questions and rumors surrounding his name and image. The outspoken safety gets real about the highs and lows of his NFL journey — from being traded and dealing with the label of having a “bad reputation,” to playing a key role in Philadelphia's Super Bowl run and the lessons he’s learned along the way. Off the bat, he addresses a recent rumor involving him and NY Giants wide receiver Malik Nabers and leaves no gray area on his side which leads into a deeper discussion around how C.J. is viewed in the NFL. He talks about what it felt like to be misunderstood in the league, how his passion is often mistaken for arrogance, and how those perceptions have impacted his career. C.J. reflects on his time with the Saints and then Lions and finally feeling at home in Philadelphia after winning a championship this past season only to be faced with his biggest pivot yet. Dealing with major heartbreak and trying to sort through confusion, C.J. shares how the darkest times have taught him most about leadership, ,maturity, and accountability. Struggling with things out of his control, his voice full of emotion as he shares to Ryan, Fred and Channing how hard it was on his kids to experience the recent ups and downs of his career. Despite the anguish he felt, C.J. expresses his respect and gratitude for veterans like Lane Johnson in Philly and Malcom Jenkins in New Orleans, holding on to invaluable life lessons. With rare vulnerability and honesty, CJ shares a powerful moment of remorse — expressing what he's sorry for and how he's grown from it. Now entering a new chapter with the Houston Texans, CJ talks about the delayed excitement of joining his new team and building a strong relationship with head coach DeMeco Ryans. He speaks candidly about the trust DeMeco has already shown in him in one unexpected phone call. CJ talks about how he's ready to win and be a part of a young, hungry team with a fierce competitor as the team's leader in Quarterback CJ Stroud. Looking forward to his fresh start to help him mature further both as a player and as a man, CJ tells Ryan, Channing and Fred he's ready for this next chance to be the one where the noise around who he is on and off the field is finally quieted. This isn’t just about football — it’s about growth, redemption, and the journey of a man who’s still writing his story. Tap in for a conversation that’s raw, real, and full of heart. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間 7 分
  • Hot Takes & Hard Truths: Summer is bringing the heat in sports stories on and off the field, Cam’s call out of Jayden Daniels, Naomi's Osaka's strength, did Puka luck out and Tyler Lockett’s no sex run has Channing baffled!
    2025/07/11
    Pivot Family — you asked, and here we are. Your favorite trio is back: Ryan Clark, Fred Taylor, and Channing Crowder reunite to break down the real stories behind this summer’s hottest headlines. From sports and culture to relationships and personal growth, the guys tackle life’s toughest pivots—and how one decision can change everything. As always, it’s raw, honest, and layered with perspective—locker room wisdom served with laughs, truth, pain, and growth. Lists and rankings are just opinions, and you know what the people say about opinions, so this week, the crew reminds us why impact over income is often the better path. They dive into the cost of fame and the price of trusting the wrong people—like Rams star Puka Nacua’s public relationship fallout, and how young athletes with good hearts often get burned. Tyler Lockett’s story of remaining a virgin until marriage at 30 opens up a powerful conversation on discipline, faith, identity, and resisting the pressure to perform—on and off the field. But you already know—Channing’s take is going to have you in tears laughing, the things he comes up with is just one of a kind! When it comes to sports and culture no topic’s off limits: Cam Newton’s callout of Jayden Daniels—was it personal? RC says this was a moment Cam should have taken a chance to be wrong instead of go for the sophomore slump chatter. Gillie da Kid’s “young bulls ain’t taking my spot” energy—is that confidence or stuck in old ways? Asante Samuel coming for Chris Carter—what does it say about legends letting go or how OG's treat rising stars? Then things get a little more serious.... Naomi Osaka’s emotional return to the spotlight sparks a vulnerable dialogue on mental health, pressure, and what it means when even greatness doesn’t feel like enough. The guys speak openly about loss, injuries, failure, and the quiet battles no one sees. And finally, with Texas devastated by recent flooding, they reflect on how life can shift in an instant—regardless of status or success. Tragedy doesn't discriminate. And as always, The Pivot is about more than just moving on—it's about moving forward with intention, purpose, and gratitude. We hope this episode gives you something—a laugh, a new perspective, or the clarity you didn’t know you needed, because that's what family is for! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間 8 分
  • Alycia Baumgardner on Becoming Undisputed Champ, high-stakes July 11 Netflix Fight at MSG, Turning Heartbreak into Fuel, and Balancing Boxing with Modeling & Embracing Her Beauty
    2025/07/08
    “It’s the perfect combo between being a beauty and a beast, and understanding I can separate the two. Knowing who I am in the ring is just an animal, who works hard, been in camp for 8 weeks and then there’s Alycia who wants to do her hair, get dressed up, uplift others- it really throws people off.” Alycia Baumgardner, Undisputed super featherweight boxing champion With her highly anticipated return to the ring streaming live on Netflix July 11, undisputed super featherweight champion Alycia Baumgardner joins The Pivot Podcast for a raw and revealing conversation just days before fight night. Known for her knockout power and unapologetic confidence, Alycia opens up about what this moment means—and the mindset it takes to stay at the top. Alycia opens up to Ryan, Channing and Fred about her journey—from overcoming early setbacks and self-doubt to rising through the ranks and capturing titles with flair both in and out of the ring. Her humble beginnings grounded by having her father as her boxing coach and life coach engrained the value of hard work, chasing dreams and being resilient. She breaks down the emotional moment of becoming world champion while sharing the heartbreak of losing her father on this journey to top of women's boxing and how it has reinvigorated her motivation beyond the ring. Going from Amatuer to Champ, we talk about the pivotal moments that shaped Alycia’s boxing style and fueled her fierce determination, molding a certain part of her approach after Mike Tyson. Being mentally tough with a strong mindset, Alycia shares how she handles pressure preparing for a fight, walking to the ring and the second the bell rings how everything turns from fuel to focus. With a new trainer and signed to Jake Paul's MVP boxing, it's all about redefining women's sports, sharing her perspective on on being a champion in a male-dominated sport and paving the way for future generations. We also dive into her passions away from the ring, with mental wellness advocacy, crafting her personal brand, fashion, modeling and how visiting Africa truly changed her. This conversation is a blueprint for channelling discipline, resilience, and confidence—no matter what your arena may be and also having the courage to rewrite your own narrative. It's high stakes come July 11th, but Alycia is more than ready for the chance to be on the biggest stage at Madison Square Garden with the world watching on Netflix as she defends her title and furthers a historical movement in women's sports. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    続きを読む 一部表示
    59 分
  • Kirk Franklin, the story he's never shared until now, the 20x Grammy winner bares his soul on childhood pain, absent fathers, fame under fire, faith in the storm, and the road to healing. Shocking truths, deep redemption, and the power of forgiveness.
    2025/07/01
    Join us for a transformative discussion with Grammy-winning gospel artist Kirk Franklin, whose musical genius and unwavering faith have reshaped contemporary Christian culture. In one of the most raw and revealing Pivot Podcasts to date, Kirk sits down with Ryan, Channing and Fred to open up about the deeply personal battles he's faced behind the spotlight. Known for his musical influence, Kirk shows a different side here—one marked by pain, healing, and redemption. With honesty, humor, and deep vulnerability, he talks about what it really takes to heal—when the cameras are off and the crowd is gone. The guys are able to get him to let his guard down, turn heavy moments light and provide a safe space as the conversation transcends into identity, family, and finding purpose not just through success, but through surrender. In this moving episode, Kirk opens up about: The art of writing hope: Exploring how music becomes a vessel for healing—both for himself and the world. Faith through the fire: Navigating personal struggles, spiritual seasons, and finding renewal in the midst of chaos. The scars of a turbulent upbringing – and how trauma shaped his views on love, trust, and self-worth. Faith when it’s messy – how he wrestled with God during his darkest moments and found peace on the other side. Reuniting with the father he never knew – and the emotional toll of reconciling decades of abandonment. Fatherhood and forgiveness – breaking the cycle for his own children and choosing healing over bitterness. Leading with authenticity: What it means to shepherd a movement when you're also the one being led. With profound vulnerability and trademark energy, Kirk Franklin shares stories of redemption, breakthrough, and creative inspiration. This episode offers a blueprint for staying rooted in purpose, pursuing excellence, and never feeling to flawed to forgive and move forward. Comment and let us know your thoughts on this episode! Thank you to our friends and partners at KaChava for sponsoring this episode. Go to ⁠⁠https://kachava.com⁠⁠ and use code PIVOT for 15% off your next order for a limited time. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    続きを読む 一部表示
    1 時間 8 分
  • Nyjah Huston takes silver in Monster Energy Men’s Skateboard Street at X Games 2025, reflects on growth, handling pressure, and looks ahead to the LA Olympics and the future of skateboarding.
    2025/07/01
    As our inside look into the 2025 X Games continues, we sit for a special conversation with Skateboard icon Nyjah Huston, who we first had the chance to meet a few years back on The Pivot, and although we get to sit with him again now, it feels as it's a completely new person, as his talent is still top tier, but Nyjah's energy and life perspective is on an entirely different level. As the background noise of Salt Lake City’s mega ramp echoes around them, this episode gives a front-row seat to Nyjah's inner workings—his mental framework, his resilience, and how he envisions the next chapter of his legendary career. Nyjah brought a unique blend of technical insight, raw emotion, and phenomenal perspective sharing with Ryan, Channing and Fred about how life and his sport continues to evolve as he has changed as well. A few of the things we chat about: Controlling the uncontrollableNyjah opened up about the razor-thin margin between victory and failure on the street course. He shared how he trains his mindset to treat each run as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity—because in competitions like this, "you get one shot." High-stakes mental focusIn his signature calm tone, he walked listeners through his mental prep before high-stress runs. Emphasizing visualization and emotional detachment, he explained how he stays in the moment: “I don’t think past tricks. I just skate.” Trick evolution in real timeNyjah detailed how he and his team approach trick selection during events—balancing hype-worthy high-risk lines against guaranteed clean runs. He spoke on adapting instinctively to course flow and weather variables. Injury, recovery & longevityHaving faced setbacks recently , he revealed new rehab routines, strength protocols, and mental wellness check-ins—enhanced by his ongoing work with spiritual mentor Chervin Jafarieh. Chasing gold, redefining legacyReflecting on his fierce Olympic & X Games pedigree, Nyjah admitted he's at a crossroads—driven still by competitive hunger but also exploring the freer, street-skater version of himself. He hopes to build a legacy that balances medals with creativity and personal expression. Beyond pro skatingThe conversation also veered into life off the board—his newer ventures in fashion, music, and philanthropy. Always disciplined, he credits a humble, growth-minded support team for keeping him grounded beyond the ramp. Tap in now for this special conversation live from the X Games! It's filled with a lot of gems around personal growth, focus, commitment and competition. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
    続きを読む 一部表示
    25 分