SZN Opener

In this episode of SZN Opener, host Rodney Rikai interviews Karli-Brooklyn LaFleur, a cheerleader and backspot for Southern University. Karli shares her journey from gymnastics to competitive cheerleading, the challenges of balancing academics and athletics, and the pride of representing Southern at iconic events like the Bayou Classic. She opens up about the mental and physical demands of cheer, the culture at HBCUs, and her aspirations to attend law school after graduation. Tune in for an inspiring conversation about passion, perseverance, and Southern pride!

In this episode of SZN Opener, host Rodney Rikai sits down with Marcus Smith Jr., a standout golfer at Howard University. Marcus reflects on his unique path, from his early love for golf inspired by family, to transitioning from Eastern Michigan to the prestigious Howard University. He discusses the challenges of navigating predominantly white spaces in golf, the importance of mental strength on and off the course, and how he’s making the most of NIL opportunities. Marcus also opens up about his experience at an HBCU, balancing academics as a psychology major, and staying grounded through family values and focus.

In this episode of SZN Opener, host Rodney Rikai sits down with Mariana Singletary, a middle blocker for the University of Texas volleyball team. From her early beginnings in South Carolina to becoming a two-time NCAA champion, Mariana shares her incredible journey through the sport. She dives into her experience redshirting, the mental and physical challenges of playing at an elite level, and the culture of excellence at Texas Volleyball. Mariana also opens up about her NIL deals, the growing landscape of professional volleyball in the U.S., and her family’s mantra of “Test Drive All Dreams.” This episode is packed with inspiration, insight, and a deep love for the game.

In this episode of SZN Opener, Rodney Rikai chats with Rutgers basketball standout Zachara Perkins. From living abroad as the daughter of retired WNBA player DeMya Walker-Wheatfall, to balancing pre-vet studies with D1 basketball, Zachara shares her unique journey. She opens up about embracing Rutgers' rich basketball legacy, adjusting to college life, and her perspective on NIL and the growth of women’s sports. Zachara’s story is one of resilience, ambition, and passion.

In this episode of SZN Opener, Rodney Rikai chats with Utah Utes basketball player Ezra Ausar about his journey from Georgia to collegiate basketball. Ezra shares how his family shaped his character, the challenges of being a young father while excelling as a student-athlete, and his transition from East Carolina to a Power 5 school. From lessons on humility to building culture in Utah, this conversation dives into resilience, personal growth, and staying true to your roots.

In this SZN Opener episode, host Rodney Rikai welcomes Mekhi Ashford, a standout hockey player at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. From being one of the few Black athletes in the sport to balancing academics, athletics, and a job, Mekhi shares his journey and how he's breaking barriers on and off the ice. They discuss everything from his deep love for R&B music and his inspirations in life, to navigating the world of collegiate hockey and the importance of representation in sports. Don’t miss this inspiring and candid conversation with a student-athlete who’s redefining what’s possible.

In Season 3 of SZN Opener, new host Rodney Rikai brings fresh energy and insight as we explore the journeys of an even more diverse range of collegiate athletes. This season dives into the lives of standout students from sports like football, hockey and gymnastics, uncovering the challenges and triumphs of balancing academics with athletic excellence. Each episode highlights how these athletes navigate their demanding schedules, build resilience, and excel in their sports while pursuing their degrees. From mastering the ice to dominating the field, these stories reveal the determination and discipline behind collegiate athletic success.

In the Season 3 premiere episode of SZN Opener, special guest host Monica McNutt sits down with North Carolina A&T University student-athlete Jordyn Dorsey. They discuss Jordyn's inspiring journey from high school valedictorian to standout leader on the basketball court, the challenges of balancing academics and athletics, and her future ambitions beyond sports. Sponsored by Tums Gummy Bites

In this exclusive episode brought to you by Prime Video, join Monica McNutt as she dives into the dynamic life of Ceyair Wright, a four-star cornerback for USC.  Discover the fascinating balance between his roles as an actor and collegiate football player, get insights on his 2024 Super Bowl predictions, and unravel the captivating story of how he landed the role of LeBron James's son in 'Space Jam: A New Legacy.' Don't miss this special conversation blending sports, entertainment, and the journey of a rising star!  ______________________________________________ Hosted by Sports Analyst Monica McNutt, SZN Opener takes you on an exhilarating journey shining a spotlight on Black college athletes.  This podcast is brought to you by Cassius Life & the Urban One Podcast Network Check back every Thursday for new episodes.

Kayvon Thibodeaux, Linebacker for the New York Giants steps into the host seat for this special episode of SZN Opener to chop it up with Auburn University Safety Jaylin Simpson. We get into Simpson's humble beginnings, getting invited to the 2024 Senior Bowl, and Kayvon shares his story of going through the NFL draft and life as a professional athlete. ______________________________________________ SZN Opener takes you on an exhilarating journey shining a spotlight on Black college athletes.  This podcast is brought to you by Cassius Life & the Urban One Podcast Network

In today's episode I'm sitting down with USC Basketball center Vincent Iwuchukwu. We're diving into his Nigerian roots, playing soccer in Germany and Korea, how he's handling some of the changes coming to college sports, and the wild journey back to the court after having a cardiac event during practice. ______________________________________________ Hosted by Sports Analyst Monica McNutt, SZN Opener takes you on an exhilarating journey shining a spotlight on Black college athletes.  This podcast is brought to you by Cassius Life & the Urban One Podcast Network Check back every Thursday for new episodes.

In this episode, Monica McNutt sits down with Kyren Lacey, wide receiver for LSU Tigers Football team. They talk about how he fell in love with football, Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals,  and how he went from playing high school basketball to becoming a ranked wide receiver. out of the state of Louisiana. ______________________________________________ Hosted by Sports Analyst Monica McNutt, SZN Opener takes you on an exhilarating journey shining a spotlight on Black college athletes.  This podcast is brought to you by Cassius Life & the Urban One Podcast Network Check back every Thursday for new episodes.

In this episode, Monica McNutt sits down with Kendyl Terell, a forward for the Jackson State University Women's Soccer team. They talk about what it's like being the only minority in a mostly white sport, her passion for supporting women in sports, how she ended up kicking for her high school football team, and the story of her dad passing away during a high stakes game ______________________________________________ Hosted by Sports Analyst Monica McNutt, SZN Opener takes you on an exhilarating journey shining a spotlight on Black college athletes.  This podcast is brought to you by Cassius Life & the Urban One Podcast Network Check back every Thursday for new episodes.

In this episode, we sit down with North Carolina Central University Quarterback Davius Richard. We explore the story of a coach traveling to extend a college offer personally while Davius was in class, his journey as a 1st-Generation US Citizen, and reliving the moment when his team beat Deon Sander's Jackson State University in the Celebration Bowl ______________________________________________ Hosted by Sports Analyst Monica McNutt, SZN Opener takes you on an exhilarating journey shining a spotlight on Black college athletes.  This podcast is brought to you by Cassius Life & the Urban One Podcast Network Check back every Thursday for new episodes.

In today's episode, I sit down with LSU Guard Aneesah Morrow. Join us as we discuss her pivotal role in leading her high school to its first state championship, achieving top-10 rankings in both scoring and rebounding, being recognized as one of the top recruited players, and the powerful influence of growing up in a family of collegiate champions that propelled her to become a dominant force on the court. ______________________________________________ Hosted by Sports Analyst Monica McNutt, SZN Opener takes you on an exhilarating journey shining a spotlight on Black college athletes.  This podcast is brought to you by Cassius Life & the Urban One Podcast Network Check back every Thursday for new episodes.

Welcome to a gripping episode of SZN Opener! Host, Monica McNutt, sits down with Grambling State University Defensive Lineman, Sundiata "Sunny" Anderson. Get ready for an insider's perspective as Sunny recounts the thrilling moment his sack led to a touchdown in a game against none other than Coach Prime. But that's not all – we delve into Sunny's inspiring journey, discussing his triumphant comeback after a life-changing diagnosis. It's a candid conversation that goes beyond the game, giving you an intimate look into the challenges and triumphs of a remarkable athlete. Tune in to this episode of SZN Opener for a story that goes beyond the field, exploring resilience, faith, and the indomitable spirit of Sunny Anderson. ______________________________________________ Hosted by Sports Analyst Monica McNutt, SZN Opener takes you on an exhilarating journey shining a spotlight on Black college athletes.  This podcast is brought to you by Cassius Life & the Urban One Podcast Network Check back every Thursday for new episodes. =

Hosted by Sports Analyst Monica McNutt, Season 2 of SZN Opener takes you on an exhilarating journey shining a spotlight on Black college athletes. From USC to the HBCU powerhouse Grambling State University, join us on a captivating exploration of their triumphs, navigating Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities, challenges, and profound connections these players have with their teammates and community. SZN Opener unveils the aspirations of these individuals, offering a sneak peek into the exciting futures they envision across the dynamic spectrum of sports. This podcast is your ticket to the inspiring narratives of college sports stars. Based in New York City, Monica McNutt is a multifaceted basketball analyst, host, and reporter. She joined ESPN in 2019, and since then, her role has significantly expanded, encompassing prominent shows such as Sportscenter, Around the Horn, First Take, and NBA Today. McNutt is a distinguished host and analyst for ESPN's WNBA and Women's College Basketball studio coverage as well as a studio analyst for the New York Knicks and takes on hosting duties for MSG PM on MSG Networks. You can see clips of her almost daily on ESPN. Hosted by Sports Analyst Monica McNutt, SZN Opener takes you on an exhilarating journey shining a spotlight on Black college athletes.  This podcast is brought to you by Cassius Life & the Urban One Podcast Network Check back every Thursday for new episodes.

Rice University Defensive back Gabe Taylor, the brother of legendary NFL Safety Sean Taylor, speaks about his improbable journey to becoming a Division One Football standout. Gabe tells Lamar Hurd that he’s looking to change the program at Rice and that he wants to be player of the year in his conference in the future. Gabe also addresses the pressures of being in one of the most unique positions in the country. Hosted by Lamar Hurd Check back every Tuesday at 12pm EST for new episodes. Brought to you by: Urban One Podcasts, the source for Black stories Jordan Benston - Producer Sunset Melody Araujo - Technical Producer & Lead Editor Kris Simms - Production Coordinator Marc Hines - Editor 

Duke University Women’s Basketball standout, Ashlon Jackson, goes in depth with our host Lamar Hurd and speaks about her journey growing up as a kid in the small town of China, Texas. Jackson tells Hurd that she is still upset about losing a chance to win Texas State titles. The highly recruited guard also explains the special connection that she has with Duke Head Coach Kara Lawson and how she’s adjusting to life as a college athlete during her freshman season in Durham, North Carolina Hosted by Lamar Hurd Check back every Tuesday at 12pm EST for new episodes. Brought to you by: Urban One Podcasts, the source for Black stories Jordan Benston - Producer Sunset Melody Araujo - Technical Producer & Lead Editor Kris Simms - Production Coordinator Marc Hines - Editor 

Georgia Tech Defensive Back, Myles “Spider” Sims, speaks with host Lamar Hurd and explains his growth as a player and as a person throughout his athletic journey. Coming from Atlanta, Georgia, the young star learned early in his life how to take control of his destiny. The highly touted four-star prospect talks about how he took the NCAA to court, why he decided to transfer, and how his community service has changed his life.  Hosted by Lamar Hurd Check back every Tuesday at 12pm EST for new episodes. Brought to you by: Urban One Podcasts, the source for Black stories Jordan Benston - Producer Sunset Melody Araujo - Technical Producer & Lead Editor Kris Simms - Production Coordinator Marc Hines - Editor 

Duke University Safety, Nate Vail, sits down with host Lamar Hurd and highlights what it means to be a player and student at Duke. Vail details his upbringing and the experiences that made him into one of the top defensive backs in the country coming out of high school. Vail also talks about the impact his father and other key members of his community had on him growing up.  Hosted by Lamar Hurd Check back every Tuesday at 12pm EST for new episodes. Brought to you by: Urban One Podcasts, the source for Black stories Jordan Benston - Producer Sunset Melody Araujo - Technical Producer & Lead Editor Kris Simms - Production Coordinator Marc Hines - Editor 

Alabama State University Running Back, Jacory Merritt, has a candid conversation with host Lamar Hurd about his journey to becoming a standout player at one of the most HBCU football programs in the country. Merritt tells Hurd how he fought through serious heart and lung complications and how that pushed him to keep going. The Alabama State star also touches on the impact of his family and how they helped turn him into the man he is today.  Hosted by Lamar Hurd Check back every Tuesday at 12pm EST for new episodes. Brought to you by: Urban One Podcasts, the source for Black stories Jordan Benston - Producer Sunset Melody Araujo - Technical Producer & Lead Editor Kris Simms - Production Coordinator Marc Hines - Editor 

Eastern Michigan University Wide Receiver, Max Reese, sits down with host Lamar Hurd and talks about overcoming his struggles connected to COVID and how his unique upbringing has made him into the player and person that's looking to take advantage of every opportunity in his path. Reese spoke about the challenges in the recruiting process during the pandemic. Hurd and Reese have a candid conversation about the mental maturation of the Black student-athlete and how athletes could excel on and off the field. Hosted by Lamar Hurd Check back every Tuesday at 12pm EST for new episodes. Brought to you by: Urban One Podcasts, the source for Black stories Jordan Benston - Producer Sunset Melody Araujo - Technical Producer & Lead Editor Kris Simms - Production Coordinator Marc Hines - Editor 

A lively and innovative sports podcast that focuses on the unique journeys of Black athletes in college. Host Lamar Hurd will go into in-depth conversations with these students around the country from the illustrious Duke University to HBCU powerhouse Alabama State University. This podcast will provide a one-of-a-kind look into these rising stars' successes, obstacles, communities, and futures in their respective sports through audio and visual storytelling. Follow our series and more on Cassiuslife.com. Jordan Benston - Producer Sunset Melody Araujo - Technical Producer & Lead Editor Kris Simms - Production Coordinator Marc Hines - Editor