Advertise on podcast: Heavy Hitter Sports

Corey Hill shares his personal journey from playing D1 football to now heading global sports marketing at Oakley. He reveals leadership lessons gleaned from playing for legendary coach Bill Walsh & working at Nike. If you are looking for leadership tips, learning more about Oakley or insight into the sports marketing world, this is the episode for you.  Corey's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/corey-hill-04b6a85/ The Score Takes Care of Itself, by Bill Walsh: https://www.powells.com/book/score-takes-care-of-itself-9781591843474?condition=New Listeners, please subscribe to Heavy Hitter Sports wherever you listen to podcasts so that you don't miss any future episodes. Ideally, please also rate & review the show. And share this episode with a coworker, friend or family member who it might benefit.  Feel free to reach out if you have suggestions re future episode guests or topics. Mark's contact info is noted below. Many thanks.  [email protected] 971-985-6909

Mike O’Toole has built a remarkable life around one enduring passion: the water. From launching Gondola Getaway in Long Beach to competing for 41 consecutive years in Venice’s legendary Vogalonga rowing regatta, Mike’s story is one of adventure, authenticity and following the path less traveled. We talk entrepreneurship, Venetian culture, USC memories—and why he believes his sister Maureen may be the greatest athlete ever to come out of Long Beach. Gondala Getaway: https://gondolagetawayinc.com/ Listeners, please subscribe to Heavy Hitter Sports wherever you listen to podcasts so that you don't miss any future episodes. Ideally, please also rate & review the show. And share this episode with a coworker, friend or family member who it might benefit.  Feel free to reach out if you have suggestions re future episode guests or topics. Mark's contact info is noted below. Many thanks.  [email protected] 971-985-6909

Jeff Gorham turned professional acting into an unlikely superpower for a remarkable career in sporting goods sales. In this episode, he shares lessons on preparation, listening, relationships, storytelling and delivering the unexpected. Jeff also recounts unforgettable encounters with Rob Strasser and Anna Kournikova while reflecting on the mentors and resilience that shaped his life. It’s a candid, funny and insightful conversation about the art of connecting with people. Jeff's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jeffgorham/ Listeners, please subscribe to Heavy Hitter Sports wherever you listen to podcasts so that you don't miss any future episodes. Ideally, please also rate & review the show. And share this episode with a coworker, friend or family member who it might benefit.  Feel free to reach out if you have suggestions re future episode guests or topics. Mark's contact info is noted below. Many thanks.  [email protected] 971-985-6909

Alyx Wynn, master marketeer, has led brand efforts at Nike, U.S. Soccer & now Dallas Trinity FC. She & host Mark Hochgesang discuss the World Cup, the women's sports explosion and their favorite soccer stars. Alyx also talks about the power of representation, the importance of mentorship and how strong leaders focus as much on people as performance. Enjoy sports fans! Alyx Wynn LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/alyxwynn/ Dallas Trinity FC: https://www.dallastrinityfc.com/ Listeners, please subscribe to Heavy Hitter Sports wherever you listen to podcasts so that you don't miss any future episodes. Ideally, please also rate & review the show. And share this episode with a coworker, friend or family member who it might benefit.  Feel free to reach out if you have suggestions re future episode guests or topics. Mark's contact info is noted below. Many thanks.  [email protected] 971-985-6909

Gene McCarthy, former elite miler & Nike executive, shares hard-earned lessons from leading some of the most iconic brands in sports. Drawing from his experiences at Nike, Brand Jordan, Under Armour, & ASICS, Gene offers a candid & insightful look inside some of the most pivotal moments in sporting goods history. Filled with memorable stories involving Phil Knight, Michael Jordan & Tom Brady, this conversation with host Mark Hochgesang is both inspirational & highly entertaining. Chasing Four Powell's Link: https://www.powells.com/book/chasing-four-a-personal-history-of-work-and-play-9798872479406?condition=New Gene's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/gmccarthy56/ Listeners, please subscribe to Heavy Hitter Sports wherever you listen to podcasts so that you don't miss any future episodes. Ideally, please also rate & review the show. And share this episode with a coworker, friend or family member who it might benefit.  Feel free to reach out if you have suggestions re future episode guests or topics. Mark's contact info is noted below. Many thanks.  [email protected] 971-985-6909

Charley Stobbs, the sports marketing leader of baseball & softball at adidas, delivers more than just baseball insight. He shares a championship mindset built upon hard work, authenticity, trust, and relationships. Charley reveals what’s happening in baseball today, from Little League to the Bigs. Inspired by lessons from his Major League father and years in the game, Charley reminds us to stay coachable, keep learning, and never stop pursuing the role that truly fits who you are.  Charley's LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/cstobbs/ Listeners, please subscribe to Heavy Hitter Sports wherever you listen to podcasts so that you don't miss any future episodes. Ideally, please also rate & review the show. And share this episode with a coworker, friend or family member who it might benefit.  Feel free to reach out if you have suggestions re future episode guests or topics. Mark's contact info is noted below. Many thanks.  [email protected] 971-985-6909

Guest Ellen Bain shares how she pivoted from a successful Nike career to a life built around yoga, adventure, and community - and the lessons that team sports teach us about resilience, teamwork & leadership. And yes, she did share a roller coaster ride with Phil Knight on her first day at Nike. Enjoy sports fans! Peak Power Adventures Website: https://www.peakpoweradventures.com/ PPA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/peakpoweradventures?igsh=MWh6NDg4MmtvZmcydA%3D%3D Listeners, please subscribe to Heavy Hitter Sports wherever you listen to podcasts so that you don't miss any future episodes. Ideally, please also rate & review the show. And share this episode with a coworker, friend or family member who it might benefit.  Feel free to reach out if you have suggestions re future episode guests or topics. Mark's contact info is noted below. Many thanks.  [email protected] 971-985-6909

Host Mark Hochgesang provides his take on the recent hiring of USC's new defensive coordinator, Gary Patterson. Mark also shares his thoughts on the upcoming Trojan season.  Patterson's Introductory Press Conference: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yy2psH39BWQ Listeners, please subscribe to Heavy Hitter Sports wherever you listen to podcasts so that you don't miss any future episodes. Ideally, please also rate & review the show. And share this episode with a coworker, friend or family member who it might benefit.  Feel free to reach out if you have suggestions re future episode guests or topics. Mark's contact info is noted below. Many thanks.  [email protected] 971-985-6909

Host Mark Hochgesang huddles with the inspiring and relentlessly optimistic Danny van Leeuwen—athlete, nurse, storyteller, and champion for living fully with a chronic illness. Danny doesn’t just talk about resilience; he lives it daily with multiple sclerosis while still pursuing movement, connection, and joy. His perspective flips the script from “What’s wrong?” to “What’s possible?” as we explore how folks can redefine success, choose hope, and keep moving forward even when the road gets rocky. If you’re ready for a conversation filled with energy, laughter, practical wisdom, and a contagious belief in what the human spirit can do—this episode is for you. Enjoy sports fans! Danny's Health Hats Website: https://health-hats.com/ Danny's Health Hats Podcast: https://health-hats.com/new-health-hats-blog/ EPISODE TIME STAMPS 0:00 –  Opening and Episode Setup 01:18 –  Meet Danny van Leeuwen 02:07 – Athlete Roots and Early Lessons 04:56 – Danny's Competitive Spirit 06:10 -  The MS Diagnosis  12:00 – Movement Matters 15:42 – Attitude is Everything 17:40 – Teamwork Makes the Dream Work 20:37 – Beautiful Music 22:50 – Oh the Places You'll Go 24:09 – Winning Redefined 25:00 – Pathological Optimist 26:10 – What Do You Do When You Can't? 28:56 – Final Takeaways and Closing Listeners, please subscribe to Heavy Hitter Sports wherever you listen to podcasts so that you don't miss any future episodes. Ideally, please also rate & review the show. And share this episode with a coworker, friend or family member who it might benefit.  Feel free to reach out if you have suggestions re future episode guests or topics. Mark's contact info is noted below. Many thanks.  [email protected] 971-985-6909

John Gassner & host Mark Hochgesang trade thoughts on how parents & coaches can best support young athletes with ADHD. John is an ADHD Life Coach, former DI athlete, sports industry veteran and has ADHD himself. Mark has recently returned to coaching youth baseball and is the father of an ADHD athlete. A 2024 Aspen Institute survey indicates that 20% of athletes between the age of 6 to 18 suffer from ADHD. Parents, coaches and athletes alike should find this episode illuminating.  Order Out of Chaos Website: https://www.orderoochaos.com/ John & Leslie YouTube Conversation: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JHAxsIWmELc&t=105s John's LinkedIn Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/john-s-gassner/ Listeners, please subscribe to Heavy Hitter Sports wherever you listen to podcasts so that you don't miss any future episodes. Ideally, please also rate & review the show. And share this episode with a coworker, friend or family member who it might benefit.  Feel free to reach out if you have suggestions re future episode guests or topics. Mark's contact info is noted below. Many thanks.  [email protected] 971-985-6909

Guest Spiro Psaltis shares his deep love for baseball & engaging stories re his USC national title team, five pro ball career, Pete Rose relationship & a successful 40-year tenure as both a coach & announcer with host Mark Hochgesang, his long time friend & fellow fraternity pledge brother.  Listeners, please subscribe to Heavy Hitter Sports wherever you listen to podcasts so that you don't miss any future episodes. Ideally, please also rate & review the show. And share this episode with a coworker, friend or family member who it might benefit.  Feel free to reach out if you have suggestions re future episode guests or topics. Mark's contact info is noted below. Many thanks.  [email protected] 971-985-6909

Sports can be highly instructive. Much of what I have discovered about life comes from the baseball diamond. These are ten valuable life lessons that the game of baseball has taught me.  1) You have to adjust to the curve & bad hops 2) Umps are bound to make bad calls 3) Keep your eye on the ball 4) Hope springs eternal 5) It's the little things that matter most 6) It's a team game 7) Take your cuts 8) Not everyone can play short or bat fourth 9) Moms matter most 10) You only get to play so many seasons Listeners, please subscribe to Heavy Hitter Sports wherever you listen to podcasts so that you don't miss any future episodes. Ideally, please also rate and review the show. And share this episode with a coworker, friend or family member who it might benefit.  Feel free to reach out if you have suggestions re future episode guests or topics. Mark's contact info is noted below. Many thanks. Happy Holidays! [email protected] 971-985-6909

Renowned mental performance coach Gary Chupik reveals the secrets of creating an elite mindset & unlocking your full potential. This master of sports psychology shares insights re visualization, goal-setting, team building & leadership. Enjoy sports fans! Elite Mindset Website: https://www.elitemindsetnation.com/ Gary's Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/elitemindset/ Listeners, please subscribe to Heavy Hitter Sports wherever you listen to podcasts so that you don't miss any future episodes. Ideally, please also rate and review the show. And share this episode with a coworker, friend or family member who it might benefit.  Feel free to reach out if you have suggestions re future episode guests or topics. Mark's contact info is noted below. Many thanks. Happy Holidays! [email protected] 971-985-6909

Les Badden, film & video guru & event planner extraordinaire, provides a behind-the-scenes view of Nike's magic making process during the company's golden era.  Tiger Catcher Poster: https://sportsposterwarehouse.com/products/lance-parrish-tiger-catcher-1983-detroit-tigers-vintage-wall-poster-nike-inc Listeners, please subscribe to Heavy Hitter Sports wherever you listen to podcasts so that you don't miss any future episodes. Ideally, please also rate and review the show. And share this episode with a coworker, friend or family member who it might benefit.  Feel free to reach out if you have suggestions re future episode guests or topics. Mark's contact info is noted below. Many thanks. Happy Holidays! [email protected] 971-985-6909

Host Mark Hochgesang shares his favorite guest moments from 2024. The advice, insight & untold stories are both entertaining & illuminating. Enjoy sports fans! Time-Stamped Show Notes 0:45   Teresa Strasser: Making it Home 2:02    Laura Jorgensen: Strong as You Have to Be 3:41     Scott Shirley: Balancing Act 5:17     Cody Gifford: The Race of a Lifetime 7:52     Jen Armbruster: Sports for All 8:39    Dave Clark: The Climb 11:47    Santiago Halty: The Beautiful Game 13:44   Steve Harden: Formula for Success 15:55   Kirsten Jones:  Never Enough 18:24   Ann Schatz: Trailblazer Listeners, please subscribe to Heavy Hitter Sports wherever you listen to podcasts so that you don't miss any future episodes. Ideally, please also rate and review the show. And share this episode with a coworker, friend or family member who it might benefit.  Feel free to reach out if you have suggestions re future episode guests or topics. Mark's contact info is noted below. Many thanks.  [email protected] 971-985-6909