Whe're They At podcast

Episode XXXV: Boxing Hall of Famer Bernard Hopkins

The 35th edition of Whe're They At features International Boxing Hall of Famer and Golden Boy Promotions Partner, Bernard Hopkins. Born and raised in the rich boxing city of Philadelphia, Bernard was one of greatest Middleweights of All-Time, defending his title for a record 20 times. He went on to win the Light Heavyweight championship three times. When he was gained the Light Heavyweight championship for a 2nd time, he became the oldest person in Boxing history to win a title (45 years, 337 days), breaking the record of past 'Whe're They At' guest, George Foreman (Episode VIII). He retired from the sport at AGE 51 and is universally recognized as one of the Top-5 Pound for Pound fighters of his generation. Now, he is a major voice and decision maker for Golden Boy Promotions, partnering with Oscar De La Hoya. Host Nabaté Isles had the honor to speak with Bernard on a multitude of topics including:                  

03:13-The factors for his historic longevity in Boxing.                                    

04:27-How did the boxing culture, music and tough aura of Philadelphia influence him?                         

 

11:14-On the adversity he experienced as a teenager and young adult with multiple run-ins with the law and how Boxing saving his life.                           

 

16:36-How those experiences helped him become the person he is today.                 

 

18:16-'Best Offense is Defense', his approach to boxing which has helped him live a relaxing and productive life after Boxing.                       

20:40-Reflects on the 16-month layoff from competitive boxing after losing his professional debut.                    

 

31:22-On his mentor and trainer, the late Bouie Fisher.                       

33:55-Boxing is lacking trainers that are knowledgeable and experienced teachers.                       

 

37:12-On how his loss to Roy Jones, Jr. really motivated him to augment his skillset.                     

 

40:38-Vividly reflects on the eventful two weeks leading to his major victory over Felix Trinidad...right AFTER the 9-11 tragedy.                           

47:53-On why he felt he needed a knockout, NOT relying on a decision vs. Trinidad.                   

 

51:26-Shares a funny story about Jay-Z regarding his victory over Trinidad.                   

 

54:08-Made it a priority to build his business acumen during his career.                     

 

56:13-On being an underdog going into most of his fights during his career.                       

 

56:48-His toughest opponents.                       

 

57:25-Jermain Taylor was 'ruined' after his two wins versus Bernard.                      

1:02:27-The current state of Golden Boy Promotions.                    

 

1:03:03-Previews the December 5th card featuring young phenom, Ryan Garcia.                      

 

1:04:22-On the rise of the talent rich Lightweight (135 pounds) division.                       

 

1:06:17-Which contender(s) should Canelo fight next?                    

 

1:08:59-Remembers his trainer and friend, the late Brother Naazim Richardson.                         

 

1:13:01-Shares his candid thoughts on the upcoming Mike Tyson-Roy Jones, Jr. exhibition.     

 

1:20:19-How can Boxing regain the popularity that Mixed Martial Arts is now experiencing?                 

 

1:24:47-Bernard gives his take on past and present fighters, Nabaté picks the random names for him.                     

 

1:35:00-Bernard lists his Top All-Time Pound for Pound Fighters.                                                        

Follow Whe're They At on www.twitter.com/whe_retheyat, www.instagram.com/whe.retheyat  and www.facebook.com/whe.retheyatpodcast/           

    

Musical selections are from Nabaté Isles' album, 'Eclectic Excursions', available on iTunes, Spotify, YouTube, Amazon, Tidal, etc. Check out his website as well: www.nabateisles.com

Episode XXXIV: Basketball Hall of Famer Lenny Wilkens

The 34th edition of Whe're They At features Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer as a player AND coach, Lenny Wilkens. He was one of the greatest players to come out of the New York City area, graduating Boys High School in Brooklyn. He starred at Providence College, later being inducted into the College Basketball Hall of Fame in 2006. He was a 9-time NBA All-Star as a player AND 4 times, he coached in the All-Star Game. Coach Wilkens led the Seattle Supersonics to their ONLY NBA championship in 1979. He was part of the coaching staff for the legendary 1992 U.S. Olympic Men's Basketball Team, aka the Dream Team and won another Gold medal leading the 1996 U.S. Olympic Team. He is one of four individuals to be inducted into the Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame as a player AND coach. Last but not least, he is part of the NBA 50th Anniversary team and was recognized as one of Top-10 coaches in NBA history. Host Nabaté Isles had the honor to speak with Coach Wilkens on a cornucopia of topics including:                 

02:38-How are he and his family dealing with the Covid-19 pandemic in Seattle (WA)?                    

 

03:30-Very proud of current NBA players taking a stance against racism as well as motivating people to vote.                 

06:13-Reflects on his challenging childhood in Brooklyn.                     

07:50-Discusses his interaction with Jackie Robinson and the impact he made on his life.                   

 

10:10-On his high school friendship with Dodgers' great, Tommy Davis.                       

 

10:40-Remembers Chadwick Bozeman's greatness.                    

12:12-Reflects on his interaction with John Lewis and Nelson Mandela.                    

 

13:22-The lessons that his mentor in Brooklyn, Father Tom Mannion instilled in him.                        

 

15:44-On how he was able to play for Providence College, not being heavily recruited.                      

 

21:08-The greats of the 1960's like Wilt Chamberlain, Bill Russell, Oscar Robertson, Jerry West and Elgin Baylor, in their prime, they would be able to excel in this current era.                      

 

24:27-The difficulty of his talented St. Louis Hawks teams always falling short vs. the Los Angeles Lakers or Boston Celtics.                         

 

25:20-Reminisces on the racism he encountered in St. Louis during the 1960's.                            

 

28:29-How he was able to balance being a star player AND head coach (w/Seattle Supersonics)?                         

 

33:17-Can't believe how underrated his Seattle Supersonics of the late-1970's were and reflects on how he led them to the NBA title in 1979.                            

 

38:38-Looks back on developing a talented Cleveland Cavaliers in the late-1980's and why he eventually left.                          

41:46-Doubles down on having Craig Ehlo defend Michael Jordan during MJ's classic buzzer-beater in 1989 NBA Playoffs.                       

 

43:40-How his tenure coaching the Toronto Raptors helped spark an ascension of basketball appreciation in Canada?                                  

 

44:59-When will Seattle have an NBA team once again?                       

46:46-Doesn't recall any players wanting Isiah Thomas off of the 1992 U.S. Olympic Team (Dream Team), Coach Wilkens was on the coaching staff.                      

 

48:52-How has LeBron James continued to be at the pinnacle of greatness at Year 17?                           

 

50:30-Is talk warranted about LeBron or Michael Jordan being the Greatest ever, if LeBron wins the 2020 NBA title?                       

 

51:08-FAST BREAK segment of random questions for Coach Wilkens.             

                      

Follow Whe're They At on www.twitter.com/whe_retheyat, www.instagram.com/whe.retheyat and www.facebook.com/whe.retheyatpodcast/                

Musical selections are from Nabaté Isles' album, 'Eclectic Excursions', available on iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Amazon, Tidal, etc. Check out his website as well: www.nabateisles.com

 

Episode XXXIII: Activist and Track & Field great, Dr. John Carlos

The 33rd edition of Whe're They At features Track and Field great and impactful social activist, Dr. John Carlos. Dr. Carlos was the first person in history to win the 100, 200, and 4x100 races in both the NCAA and NAIA Finals (for East Texas State and San Jose State, aka Speed City). He co-founded the Olympic Project for Human Rights with with Dr. Harry Edwards and Dr. Tommie Smith. He won the Bronze Medal in the 1968 Summer Olympics in Mexico City but most importantly, it was him along with Gold Medalist Dr. Smith demonstrating a silent but powerful protest by raising their fist in the air on the medal stand to denounce racism and oppression in the United States and around the world, the most resonating image in the HISTORY of sports. He using his platform to emphasize and demand change as well as uplifting his community. Make sure to go his website: www.johncarlos68.com for information on all of his inspirational endeavors. Host Nabaté Isles had the honor to speak with Dr. Carlos on a multitude of topics including:                 

02:37-How is he and his family doing during the Covid-19 pandemic?                       

 

03:57-The exposure of racism through this pandemic.  

 

05:55-Racism is prevalent no matter how much status a black person has.                         

 

11:54-How should NBA players and other athletes proceed to facilitate action for social justice reform?                       

 

18:28-The importance of athletes emphasizing financial literacy in inner city neighborhoods.                      

 

21:53-Activism is a lifelong job.                     

 

23:37-Reflects on the unknown history between him and fellow 1968 Olympian George Foreman.                  

 

33:09-On the beginnings of creating the Olympic Project for Human Rights in 1967 with Dr. Harry Edwards and Dr. Tommie Smith at San Jose State as well as Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. looking to help their cause.                    

 

43:56-On the adversity and restrictions placed on them by the International Olympic Committee President Avery Brundage.                       

48:44-Reminisces about the late Australian sprinter and friend, Peter Norman, who was the other medalist in the 200 meter event in Mexico City with Dr. Carlos and Dr. Smith.                    

 

54:34-Candidly discusses his relationship with the person he made history with in Mexico City, Dr. Tommie Smith as well as the events on October 16, 1968.                           

 

1:02:37-What are sports franchise owners doing to help push for social justice reform?                  

 

1:06:55-On white athletes' support to end racial oppression.                        

1:10:51-Discusses his new comic book, 'The Power of Reason' to inspire the youth.                    

 

1:13:33-If Colin Kaepernick returns to the National Football League, does it hurt his legacy?                   

 

1:17:47-Shares powerful stories from his childhood leading him towards his focus on track and field.                         

 

1:36:57-Dr. Carlos' thoughts on the legacy of the late, great thespian Chadwick Boseman.                        

 

1:50:03-His insightful take on non-American Black actors playing roles of iconic American Black figures.                             

 

1:51:54-Provides a forecast on American sprinters going into the 2021 Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan.                       

 

Follow Whe're They At on www.twitter.com/whe_retheyat, www.instagram.com/whe.retheyat and www.facebook.com/whe.retheyatpodcast/ !                

 

Musical selections are from Nabaté Isles' album, 'Eclectic Excursions', available on iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Amazon, Tidal, etc. Check out his website as well: www.nabateisles.com

            

 

Episode XXXII: 5x NHL All-Star and USA Hockey legend Keith Tkachuk

The 32nd edition of Whe're They At features 5-time National Hockey League (NHL) All-Star and United States Hockey Hall of Famer, Keith Tkachuk. Keith played 19 seasons in the NHL for the Winnipeg Jets/Phoenix Coyotes, Atlanta Thrashers and St. Louis Blues. He was the FIRST U.S. born player to lead the NHL in goals (1996-97 season) with the Coyotes and is 1 of 5 American-born players to score 500 career goals. One of the most decorated players in United States Hockey history, he represented the USA on EIGHT different teams including the Gold medal winning team in the 1996 World Cup of Hockey and the Silver medal team in the 2002 Winter Olympics in Salt Lake City, Utah. He was inducted into U.S. Hockey Hall of Fame in 2011. Currently, Keith is Director of Player Recruitment for the Blues as well as the proud father of NHL All-Stars, Matthew and Brady Tkachuk. He also has a daughter who is an elite field hockey player, committed to the University of Virginia. Host Nabaté Isles had the honor to speak with Keith on a myriad of topics including:                      

 

01:50-How is his family doing during the COVID-19 pandemic?                          

02:28-Is his daughter, Taryn a better athlete than his NHL All-Star sons, Matthew and Brady?                

 

03:14-As a father, he is glad for the safety of his son, Matthew at the NHL bubble in Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.                       

 

04:21-Good to have his youngest son, Brady at home with him now.                           

 

05:24-His approach to exposing his sons to hockey, making sure to not put pressure on them.                  

 

06:32-Reflects on the celebratory weekend of his sons playing at the 2020 NHL All-Star Game in their hometown of St. Louis this past January.                    

 

08:00-Being proud of his sons' passionate and vigorous play, no matter the criticism.                    

 

09:59-Do Keith's sons train with him during the offseason?                        

10:23-How tense would it be if his sons played each other in a Stanley Cup Final?                    

 

12:16-On the legacy that the late Hall of Famer, Dale Hawerchuk left on the NHL.                     

 

14:50-On growing up in Melrose, Massachusetts and what made him want to become a hockey player.                        

 

17:14-During his younger days, his cousin and future NHL player, Tom Fitzgerald inspired Keith.                     

 

18:46-On adjusting to playing in Winnipeg, Manitoba (Canada) as a young pro.                    

 

20:24-Names the veteran players that advised him.                     

 

22:26-His feelings on being voted team captain at age 21 with the Winnipeg Jets.                

 

23:52-On the tension with the Winnipeg Jets as he signed an offer sheet with the Chicago Blackhawks in 1995.                  

 

25:02-On the United States expansion in the NHL in the 1990's.                   

26:58-Reminisces on Jerry Colangelo's influence, bringing the Winnipeg Jets to Phoenix (becoming the Coyotes).                      

 

28:06-Was the 1996 U.S. World Cup of Hockey team the greatest American squad ever assembled?                    

 

29:53-The goalie position is pressure packed, especially during the Stanley Cup playoffs.                   

 

31:22-On his career revival in St. Louis.                         

 

33:12-The factors that made him stay and raise his family in St. Louis.                      

 

34:23-On the bittersweet 2002 U.S. Olympic hockey team's Silver medal result on U.S. soil (Salt Lake City, UT).                    

 

35:15-Balancing being the scorer and muscle on a team.                   

36:27-Are there any current players similar to him in his prime?                      

37:32-His thoughts on not being a Hockey Hall of Famer.                   

39:32-His younger cousin, Kevin Hayes is playing well for the Stanley Cup contender, Philadelphia Flyers.                    

 

40:17-Praises Flyers head coach Alain Vigneault as he started as a scout when Keith played in the St. Louis in the 2000s decade.                    

41:30-What does the NHL need to do to bring more visibility?                     

43:30-Praises Columbus Blue Jackets All-Star Defenseman Seth Jones and Jack Adams Coach of the Year Finalist John Tortorella.                       

45:54-On his current position of Director of Player Recruitment with the St. Louis Blues.                 

 

47:52-What happened to the Blues as they lost in the Western Conference Quarterfinals in the Edmonton 'Bubble'?                      

 

50:06-Keith's picks for the 2020 Stanley Cup Finals.                       

 

50:51-POWER PLAY segment of random questions for Keith (his son, Brady made a surprise appearance).               

 

56:53-Keith's All-Time United States Hockey starting lineup.                            

Follow Whe're They At on www.twitter.com/whe_retheyat, www.instagram.com/whe.retheyat and www.facebook.com/whe.retheyatpodcast/ !                

 

Musical selections are from Nabaté Isles' album, 'Eclectic Excursions', available on iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Amazon, Tidal, etc. Check out his website as well: www.nabateisles.com

 

Episode XXXI: 4x NFL All-Pro & Super Bowl Champion LeRoy Butler

The 31st edition of Whe're They At features 4-time All-Pro and Pro Bowl Safety, Super Bowl (XXXI) champion & broadcaster, LeRoy Butler. LeRoy emerged from a tough childhood to help spearhead a renaissance with Florida State University's football program in the late-1980's. He went on to excel with the Green Bay Packers for all 12 years of his NFL career as a major contributor to another renaissance as the Packers won Super Bowl XXXI in the 1996 season, and made the big game again the following season. LeRoy is a member of the Packers Hall of Fame and the 1990's NFL All-Decade Team at the Safety position. He was a finalist for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2020. He's the Creator of the Lambeau Leap as well. Now, he is a broadcaster covering the Packers and has launched an initiative against Bullying. See LeRoy's website for more information on his inspirational work and endeavors: www.leroybutlerinc.com.  Host Nabaté Isles had the honor to speak with LeRoy on a cornucopia of topics including:                      

03:23-On how his family is doing within the pandemic.                          

06:50-Doesn't think it's safe for schools to open at this time.                     

09:43-Remembers his former teammate, Tootie Robbins, who recently passed away due to Covid-19.                     

 

12:33-Reflects on his meager childhood with physical disabilities as well as the strength his Mother instilled in him.                      

 

17:38-On his divine discovery that he didn't need leg braces at age 8!                         

 

21:39-Will his alma mater, Robert E. Lee High School change its name? Also, reminisces on the overwhelming racism at the school but the brotherhood on the football team.                         

 

27:09-Gravitating towards Florida State University to be under the tutelage of Hall of Fame coach, Bobby Bowden.                 

 

30:43-On how he and Hall of Famer Deion Sanders contributed to the FSU renaissance.                 

 

36:40-The rich history of the Green Bay Packers provided inspiration for LeRoy.                    

 

38:17-Doesn't understand why current players don't reach out to the greats before them.                      

 

44:05-On how Hall of Fame General Manager Ron Wolf and Head Coach Mike Holmgren led the Packers' return to glory.                      

49:40-On how elite defensive coordinators Ray Rhodes and Fritz Shurmur helped LeRoy become an All-Pro Safety.                      

 

55:47-On birthing the 'Lambeau Leap'!                         

 

58:07-Shares a funny story when he met President Bill Clinton.                      

1:00:10-Discusses how the Packers could have won more Super Bowls in the 1990's.                        

 

1:02:26-Thoughts on when he will finally be inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.                 

 

1:05:45-On why LeRoy feels that Hall of Fame Quarterback and Packers legend Bart Starr's number 15 should be retired throughout the National Football League.                       

 

1:09:04-More impactful Packers QB: Brett Favre OR Aaron Rodgers?                       

1:10:41-His memories of Hall of Famer Brett Favre as a teammate.                      

1:13:18-Does he agree with Brett Favre stating that Aaron Rodgers would be better off leaving the Packers to play for the Chicago Bears?                    

 

1:14:41-Shares his outlook on the 2020 Packers, will they be a Top-2 team in the NFC again?                           

 

1:19:11-Should the NFL consider a 'Bubble' system?                      

 

1:23:26-On some of the NCAA Football power conferences postponed the season until the Spring.                  

 

1:24:50-His thoughts on the tension between the players and coaching staff at FSU.                    

 

1:26:13-LeRoy provides his candid take on his former FSU teammate Deion Sanders joining the controversial Barstool Sports.                      

1:27:33-Who's the Best Safety in the current NFL?                          

 

1:28:38-He wants to see his Milwaukee Bucks in the NBA Finals.                         

1:29:27-NO HUDDLE segment of random questions for LeRoy.                      

1:36:46-LeRoy's Mount Rushmore for Florida State football AND the Green Bay Packers.                      

 

Follow Whe're They At on www.twitter.com/whe_retheyat, www.instagram.com/whe.retheyat and www.facebook.com/whe.retheyatpodcast/ !                

 

Musical selections are from Nabaté Isles' album, 'Eclectic Excursions', available on iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Amazon, Tidal, etc. Check out his website as well: www.nabateisles.com

 

Episode XXX: 5x NBA All-Star Tim Hardaway, Sr.

The 30th edition of Whe're They At features 5-time NBA All-Star and one of the most exciting point guards in the last three decades, Tim Hardaway, Sr. Tim is one of most celebrated basketball players from the rich tradition of Chicago, Illinois. He starred at the University of Texas-El Paso under the tutelage of groundbreaking Hall of Fame coach, Don Haskins. He was drafted 14th overall in the 1989 NBA Draft by the Golden State Warriors and was part of one of the memorable trios in NBA History, Run-TMC (with Hall of Famers Chris Mullin and Mitch Richmond). He went on to become a major part of the Miami Heat's emergence in the late-1990's, his #10 is now retired by the team. In his distinguished 14-year NBA career, Tim has made 5 All-NBA teams. During his retirement years, he has been an NBA assistant coach as well as a mentor to young basketball players around the nation. His son, Tim, Jr. is a guard for the Dallas Mavericks. Host Nabaté Isles had the honor to speak with Tim on a myriad of topics including:                   

03:20-Where's Tim Hardaway at and how is he keeping busy?                               

04:20-Discusses his current work with Banneker Watches (http://www.bannekerstore.com) and Dream Dribble (http://www.dreamdribble.com).                           

 

06:17-On his parents' (Donald and Gwendalyn) guidance while growing up in the tough Southside part of Chicago.                        

 

15:41-Reflects on his friend, Ben 'Benji' Wilson, the All-American high school basketball player who tragically was murdered at age 18 in Chicago.                          

 

21:01-On the Pro-Am games he participated in as a high schooler, playing against Chicago-born NBA stars: Isiah Thomas, Maurice 'Mo' Cheeks, Rickey Green and Glenn 'Doc' Rivers.                      

 

27:05-The reason Tim decided on going to play at the University of Texas-El Paso under the tutelage of Hall of Fame coach, Don Haskins.                        

 

33:03-Nabaté shared a past clip from the 24th episode of 'Whe're They At' with Antonio Davis, reminiscing on his experiences with Tim and Coach Haskins at UTEP.                      

 

35:01-Reminisces on how UTEP almost became an UNLV-type superteam.                        

 

36:31-On what Hall of Fame coach Don Nelson did to make sure he and his Golden State Warriors drafted Tim in the 1989 NBA Draft.                       

42:22-Did he see greatness in a Warriors assistant coach by the name of Gregg Popovich?                      

 

45:55-The shame of Run-TMC (trio with him & Hall of Famers Chris Mullin and Mitch Richmond) breaking up due to Coach Nelson and Mitch not getting along.                     

 

48:52-Did Tim and Chris ever debate on which city had the better talent, Chicago or New York City?                  

 

50:39-On playing for the intense Hall of Fame coach, Pat Riley with the Miami Heat.                     

 

55:29-Discusses his comeback after tearing his ACL just before joining the Heat.                        

 

58:46-Reflects on the vigorous rivalry between his Heat and the New York Knicks.                      

 

1:04:58-On his memorable experiences with the 2000 USA Men's Olympic Team, including the breathtaking Vince Carter dunk.                       

1:06:33-Discusses how he looked to improve his relationship with his son, current Dallas Mavericks guard Tim Hardaway, Jr.                       

1:11:51-Pleasantly surprised about the safety of the NBA Bubble, where his son is currently participating in.                   

 

1:15:24-Dissects the eventful happenings of the NBA Bubble, including the play of the Portland TrailBlazers and the Milwaukee Bucks.                       

 

1:17:47-Praises the defending champion Toronto Raptors and the way they play the game.                    

 

1:20:02-The point guard he is most impressed with.                        

 

1:22:19-FAST BREAK segment of random questions for Tim. 

 

1:30:56-Provides his thoughts on his alma mater, UTEP and the job Men's Basketball head coach Rodney Terry is doing.                      

 

1:32:21-Tim names his All-Time Starting Lineup of players born and raised in Chicago.                        

 

Follow Whe're They At on www.twitter.com/whe_retheyat, www.instagram.com/whe.retheyat and www.facebook.com/whe.retheyatpodcast/ !                

 

Musical selections are from Nabaté Isles' album, 'Eclectic Excursions', available on iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Amazon, Tidal, etc. Check out his website as well: www.nabateisles.com

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Episode XXIX: NFL MVP & Super Bowl Champion Joe Theismann

The 29th edition of Whe're They At features National Football League Most Valuable Player, Super Bowl (XVII) Champion Quarterback and current motivational speaker, Joe Theismann. Joe is one of the most celebrated players from the historic University of Notre Dame football program. He led the Washington Football Team to a Super Bowl Championship in the 1982 season and won the 1983 NFL Most Valuable Player Award. He is the All-Time leading passer for the Washington Football Club and is part of their Ring of Fame. After suffering a career-ending leg injury, he bounced back as a prolific NFL analyst for ESPN, NFL Network and currently is the color analyst for Washington's preseason games. More importantly, he is inspiring individuals and businesses through his motivational speaking and released an insightful book this past June called, 'How to be a Champion Every Day: 6 Timeless Keys to Success' (https://www.amazon.com/How-Champion-Every-Day-Timeless/dp/1635767121). Host Nabaté Isles had the honor to speak with Joe on a myriad of topics including:                     

01:44-On changing the pronunciation of his last name, with his Grandmother's blessing.                     

 

02:06-Discusses his inspirational book, 'How to be a Champion Every Day: 6 Timeless Keys to Success'.                          

 

05:14-Joe quotes the great NFL coach, Marty Schottenheimer in his book about expecting to be successful.                        

 

06:24-On how quarantining is a chance for all of us to be introspective.                      

 

08:56-Preaches the importance of following the guidelines and protocols during this Covid-19 pandemic.                         

 

10:49-Reflects on the guidance his parents and Grandmother provided him, growing up in South River, New Jersey.                     

 

18:07-On fellow South River High School alumnus, Hall of Famer Art Wojciechowicz & his high school teammate, fellow NFL All-Pro Drew Pearson.                   

 

21:28-Should the NFL create a bubble structure for their players, similar to the National Basketball Association (NBA) and National Hockey League (NHL)?                       

 

24:37-On how he was able to be a Football All-American AND Academic All-American at the rigorous University of Notre Dame.                         

 

29:08-On how he almost played with the historic undefeated 1972 Miami Dolphins team.                    

 

31:56-On Super Bowl victories overly defining a Quarterback's career.                      

 

38:11-The eerie foreshadowing to his career-ending leg injury.                          

 

38:49-Dealing with not being able to play football anymore.                           

 

43:43-His take on the evolution of the passing game.                      

 

45:48-Expresses his elation for Alex Smith's imminent comeback after he suffered a similar catastrophic leg injury.                         

 

47:55-The difficulty of evaluating players, especially Quarterbacks with NO minicamp, Organized Team Activities or preseason football games.                       

 

50:19-Should the Washington Football Team show full confidence in Dwayne Haskins as their starting Quarterback?                       

 

53:19-On the Washington Football Team changing their name.                         

 

55:12-The main reason why the Washington Football Team has lacked consistency since the end of Coach Joe Gibbs first stint with the team (from 1993 until now).                      

56:52-Patrick Mahomes or Lamar Jackson: Who is the more potent Quarterback?                     

59:01-How does Joe see Cam Newton doing with the New England Patriots?                      

59:49-NO HUDDLE segment of random questions for Joe.                    

 

1:05:12-Discusses the 'Joe Cares' initiative that his Joe Theismann's Restaurant is spearheading to provide free meals to those in need around the Alexandria (VA) area.                       

1:06:11-His Mount Rushmore for Notre Dame football.                         

 

Follow Whe're They At on www.twitter.com/whe_retheyat, www.instagram.com/whe.retheyat and www.facebook.com/whe.retheyatpodcast/ !                

 

Musical selections are from Nabaté Isles' album, 'Eclectic Excursions', available on iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Amazon, Tidal, etc. Check out his website as well: www.nabateisles.com

Episode XXVIII: Basketball Hall of Famer Jim Boeheim

The 28th edition of Whe're They At features Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer and current Syracuse University Men's Basketball head coach Jim Boeheim. Coach Boeheim has been associated with Syracuse since 1962 as a student-athlete, assistant coach and head coach. He has coached the Syracuse Orange to Final Fours in 4 different decades. He won the NCAA Championship in 2003 & made 2 other championship games in 1987 and 1996. His team has participated in 5 Final Fours, 19 Sweet 16s and 33 tournaments overall in his 44 years as head coach at Syracuse. He has led the Orange to the postseason, either the NCAA or NIT tournaments in EVERY season they were eligible. Coach Boeheim was inducted Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame in 2005. He continues to serve the Central New York community, where he was born and raised through the Jim and Juli Boeheim Foundation, founded with his wife (https://boeheimfoundation.org/). Host Nabaté Isles had the honor to speak with Coach on a plethora of topics including:                   

 

02:10-Coach Boeheim's thoughts on students of all ages going back to school.                           

 

03:30-On discussions involving ACC Coaches and Athletic Directors about safety protocols for the upcoming 2020-21 college basketball season.                         

 

09:14-Will there be possible schedule adjustments based on conference play and region?           

            

12:01-The pandemic's effect on recruiting.                       

 

15:33-His committed work with the John McClendon Minority Leadership Initiative.                       

 

20:59-On him and his wife, Juli spearheading the 2020 Basket Ball Live virtual event raising over $550,000 for Covid-19 relief in Central New York.                   

 

24:24-On his upbringing in the small town of Lyons, New York (57 miles from Syracuse)                  

 

25:57-Reflects on his friendship with his Syracuse University teammate, fellow Hall of Famer Dave Bing.                  

 

28:42-His approach to leadership throughout the years.                 

 

34:10-Reminisces on the dominance of the Big East and the current greatness of the Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC).                     

 

36:37-On beating prostate cancer.                  

 

38:12-The elements for his longevity and engaging his student-athletes for 44 years as a head coach.                      

 

41:59-His take on the NBA's G-League opening the door for top prospects to join after graduating high school.                  

 

44:04-Should college athletes be compensated?                       

 

49:20-Does he see any surprises in the NBA Bubble?                       

 

52:07-Looks forward to seeing his former players, Carmelo Anthony and Dion Waiters making an impact during the NBA Restart.                

Follow Whe're They At on www.twitter.com/whe_retheyat, www.instagram.com/whe.retheyat and www.facebook.com/whe.retheyatpodcast/ !                

 

Musical selections are from Nabaté Isles' album, 'Eclectic Excursions', available on iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Amazon, Tidal, etc. Check out his website as well: www.nabateisles.com

 

Episode XXVII: Baseball Hall of Famer Tom Glavine

The 27th edition of Whe're They At features Baseball Hall of Famer and current Atlanta Braves television analyst Tom Glavine. Tom was drafted by two different sports leagues in 1984 out of high school, the National Hockey League (Los Angeles Kings) and of course, Major League Baseball by the Braves. He chose to play baseball and proceeded to win two (2) National League Cy Young Awards (best pitcher), make ten (10) All-Star appearances and win a World Series Championship (w/ the 1995 Atlanta Braves) while winning the World Series Most Valuable Player. He was also the Union representative for the Braves over a decade, being a major spokesman for the MLB Players Association during the 1994-95 Strike/Lockout. Tom is one of 24 pitchers in MLB history to win over 300 career games. He was inducted to the Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, NY on his 1st ballot in 2014. He has represented himself as true humanitarian throughout the past three decades. Host Nabaté Isles had the honor to speak with Tom on a cornucopia of topics including:                   

 

01:45-On how the pandemic has inspired more family time.                      

 

04:20-Reflects on his upbringing in Billerica, Massachusetts.     

 

07:47-Tom's athletic influences while growing up.                           

 

08:16-Being a Red Sox fan, he reflects on the great games and players from the 1970's on.                  

 

12:11-On playing with fellow MLB All-Star Gary DiSarcina and against NHL winger Tom Fitzgerald.                     

 

14:25-Reflects on being drafted in BOTH MLB (2nd round) and NHL (4th round) Drafts, straight out of high school.                               

 

19:19-On how he was able to develop quickly within the Atlanta Braves farm system.                     

 

23:16-Discusses the veteran players who mentored him when he reached the big leagues.                   

 

26:38-The factors that made his Atlanta Braves go from last place in 1990 to one win away from a World Series championship just one year later.                         

 

31:00-On being part of the memorable 1991 World Series vs. the Minnesota Twins.                   

 

33:54-Why does the overall excellence of the Atlanta Braves for 14 years lack the recognition it deserves?                     

 

36:32-Does Tom see the current Los Angeles Dodgers (7 so far) passing his Braves 14 consecutive division titles mark?                           

 

39:29-On why he wanted to become the union representative for the Braves, reflecting on the 1994-95 Strike/Lockout.                                 

 

44:04-Does Tom see the current tension between the players and the team owners lingering into 2021?                     

 

49:09-On how Tom and fellow Hall of Fame pitchers, Greg Maddux and John Smoltz motivated and supported each other.                                   

 

55:41-Why did he leave the Braves to join the rival New York Mets?                   

 

59:17-Reflects on how good the 2006 Mets were.                     

 

1:01:49-What contributed to his longevity and excellence of 22 years?                        

 

1:06:53-Will there be another 300-game winner?                  

 

1:07:39-Why are there more arm injuries for current pitchers with science, nutrition and medicine being more advanced?                     

 

1:10:09-His honest take on the 'Opener', a reliever starting a game for a couple of innings.                        

 

1:11:50-Why are current pitchers not looking to be competent at hitting?                        

 

1:15:03-Will Major League Baseball complete this abbreviated season with the Covid-19 pandemic still looming?                           

 

1:17:42-On how the talented 2020 Braves can benefit from the shortened season.           

      

1:21:47-HIT AND RUN segment of random questions for Tom.                          

 

1:27:40-On his son, Peyton's time at Auburn University and his quest towards making the professional level of baseball.                        

 

1:29:09-Reflects on adopting his youngest son, Kienan.                      

 

Follow Whe're They At on www.twitter.com/whe_retheyat, www.instagram.com/whe.retheyat and www.facebook.com/whe.retheyatpodcast/ !                

 

Musical selections are from Nabaté Isles' album, 'Eclectic Excursions', available on iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Amazon, Tidal, etc. Check out his website as well: www.nabateisles.com             

 

Episode XXVI: NFL All-Pro Demario Davis

The 26th edition of Whe're They At features NFL All-Pro Linebacker from the New Orleans Saints, Demario Davis. Demario is the first active athlete to be a guest on the podcast as he has been a major activist for social change, taking action against police brutality and systemic racism. During this offseason, he has traveled around the United States looking to facilitate talks between the police and citizens, creating and selling masks (www.56manofgod.com) to support the families of slain victims due to police brutality and racial targeting & promoting his Devoted Dreamers Foundation for children (www.devoteddreamers.org), helping them achieve success spiritually, mentally and physically. Demario has had an excellent 8-year NFL career (w/New York Jets, Cleveland Browns and currently with the Saints), which culminated with him being named to the 2019 NFL All-Pro team. Host Nabaté Isles had the honor to speak with Demario on a plethora of topics including:                   

01:28-Discusses his recent 5-city tour with fellow NFL All-Pro Josh Norman to facilitate conversation between the community and the police.                      

 

04:53-On the need to emphasize police officers that are really serving and protecting the community.                     

07:49-On selling Christian faith masks to help stop the spread of Covid-19, having all proceeds going to the families of Ahmaud Arbery, Breonna Taylor and George Floyd.                       

 

11:49-On the importance of all city, district and state elections this coming November, not just the Presidential election.                  

 

18:26-Doesn't see the rush for the NFL season to start with the seriousness of the Covid-19 pandemic resonating.                    

 

21:40-On how Drew Brees' controversial statements sparked communication and understanding between his Saints teammates.                   

 

26:41-Nabaté reflects on an interview he had with Demario back in 2012 and how what Demario stated foreshadowed him tp become an All-Pro.                     

 

31:55-Will the NFL Players Coalition work with Colin Kaepernick in the future?                       

 

34:18-How much pressure will be on Colin Kaepernick to perform at a high level if he returns as a NFL Quarterback?                       

 

38:53-NO HUDDLE segment of random questions for Demario.                 

 

43:05-On his Encounter Conference through his Devoted Dreamers Foundation on Saturday, July 11th (https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-encounter-conference-tickets-107113491336)

 

Follow Whe're They At on www.twitter.com/whe_retheyat, www.instagram.com/whe.retheyat and www.facebook.com/whe.retheyatpodcast/ !                

 

Musical selections are from Nabaté Isles' album, 'Eclectic Excursions', available on iTunes, Spotify, Google Play, Amazon, Tidal, etc. Check out his website as well: www.nabateisles.com