Amazing Americans Guests
This Week:
Matt Elliott
&
Justin Garrity
This Week:
Matt Elliott
&
Justin Garrity
PAST GUESTS
Noah Fredenberg
When he learned of the incarceration and suicide
rates of foster children, he decided to
do something about it.
Like run 121 marathons in 121 days.
When he learned of the incarceration and suicide
rates of foster children, he decided to
do something about it.
Like run 121 marathons in 121 days.
Mike Eruzione
He was the captain of the team that pulled off one of the greatest
upsets in American sports history.
And he scored the winning goal to beat the Russians
in 1980 in the "Miracle On Ice."
He was the captain of the team that pulled off one of the greatest
upsets in American sports history.
And he scored the winning goal to beat the Russians
in 1980 in the "Miracle On Ice."
Scott Hamilton
One of America's greatest figure skaters is
also a FOUR TIME cancer survivor.
One of America's greatest figure skaters is
also a FOUR TIME cancer survivor.
Jamie Nieto
He was one of America's best high jumpers, a
two time Olympian. But his world was shattered when
a freak accident left him completely paralyzed.
But he's back!!!
He was one of America's best high jumpers, a
two time Olympian. But his world was shattered when
a freak accident left him completely paralyzed.
But he's back!!!
Bryce Matteson
After his heart was broken seeing the devastation
of a lack of clean water in Third World Countries, he
decided to help.
By running 50 marathons.
In
After his heart was broken seeing the devastation
of a lack of clean water in Third World Countries, he
decided to help.
By running 50 marathons.
In
Clay Dyer
He was born with no legs and only half of one arm.
Yet he has become one of America's most successful
professional fishermen.
He was born with no legs and only half of one arm.
Yet he has become one of America's most successful
professional fishermen.
Anthony Robles
He was born without a right leg.
But the loss of a limb never slowed him down.
In fact, it motivated him.
So much so that he became an NCAA wrestling champion.
He was born without a right leg.
But the loss of a limb never slowed him down.
In fact, it motivated him.
So much so that he became an NCAA wrestling champion.
Andy Lowry
He is the head football coach at Columbine High School in Littleton, CO
and was in April of 1999, when 13 students and a teacher were killed in one
of the deadliest school shootings in American history.
All Lowry did, the following fall, minus a murdered player, was
win the state championship.
He is the head football coach at Columbine High School in Littleton, CO
and was in April of 1999, when 13 students and a teacher were killed in one
of the deadliest school shootings in American history.
All Lowry did, the following fall, minus a murdered player, was
win the state championship.
Erik Weihenmayer
He was born with a disease that immediately affected his sight.
He then went completely blind as a teenager.
Then became the first blind person to scale Mt. Everest.
He was born with a disease that immediately affected his sight.
He then went completely blind as a teenager.
Then became the first blind person to scale Mt. Everest.
Justin Widhalm
He was a national champion high school wrestler.
He later joined the Military and became an Army Sniper.
But after his second tour in Iraq, he came home with a broken back and brain trauma.
But then became one of the best track cyclists in the world.
He was a national champion high school wrestler.
He later joined the Military and became an Army Sniper.
But after his second tour in Iraq, he came home with a broken back and brain trauma.
But then became one of the best track cyclists in the world.
Jim Valvano
Shane Jacobson, the CEO of the V Foundation, is the guest. We talk about the iconic and legendary
coach, his foundation, and the incredible legacy
Jimmy V left.
Shane Jacobson, the CEO of the V Foundation, is the guest. We talk about the iconic and legendary
coach, his foundation, and the incredible legacy
Jimmy V left.
John Reumann
He survived leukemia. And then went to start a cycling club to help other
leukemia victims. And the impact he and the club has had
is absolutely incredible.
https://pages.lls.org/tnt/rm/ambbr23/JReumann
He survived leukemia. And then went to start a cycling club to help other
leukemia victims. And the impact he and the club has had
is absolutely incredible.
https://pages.lls.org/tnt/rm/ambbr23/JReumann
Kristi Thornton
After her little brother tragically passed away in a
car accident, she has used running - and random
acts of kindness - to beautifully honor him.
And help others!
After her little brother tragically passed away in a
car accident, she has used running - and random
acts of kindness - to beautifully honor him.
And help others!
Billy Mayfair
He has been a professional golfer for 34 years. He has five
PGA Tour titles and is the only player in PGA history to
beat Tiger Woods in a playoff.
But he has had his share of adversity, including being
diagnosed with both cancer and autism.
He has been a professional golfer for 34 years. He has five
PGA Tour titles and is the only player in PGA history to
beat Tiger Woods in a playoff.
But he has had his share of adversity, including being
diagnosed with both cancer and autism.
Cecil Williams
He was hit by a hit and run driver and suffered brian and spinal cord
injuries. After years of mental and physical struggles, he took up
endurance sports. And became a champion.
Marcus Allen
After surviving the projects of Atlanta and then rural poverty in Georgia, he played college and pro basketball. And today, he has dedicated his life to helping youth do the same thing.
After surviving the projects of Atlanta and then rural poverty in Georgia, he played college and pro basketball. And today, he has dedicated his life to helping youth do the same thing.
Nick Mayhugh
At the age of 14, after a Grand Mal Seizure, he was dignosed with Cerebral Palsy. It only made him more determined to be both a Soccer and Track and Field champion.
At the age of 14, after a Grand Mal Seizure, he was dignosed with Cerebral Palsy. It only made him more determined to be both a Soccer and Track and Field champion.
Dani Grabol
At one time in her life she weighed 200 pounds and smoked a pack of cigarettes a day. But she completely turned her life around, eventually becomingthe first woman to complete the Epic Five. Five Ironman Distance Triathlons. On Five Straight Days. On Five Different Islands in Hawaii.
At one time in her life she weighed 200 pounds and smoked a pack of cigarettes a day. But she completely turned her life around, eventually becomingthe first woman to complete the Epic Five. Five Ironman Distance Triathlons. On Five Straight Days. On Five Different Islands in Hawaii.
Mark & Travis Macy
This father son endurance sports duo refused to let Alzhiemers Disease slow them down.
This father son endurance sports duo refused to let Alzhiemers Disease slow them down.
Taylor Robertson
She is one of the top collegiate pole vaulters in America.
And she became a champion while battling Lupus.
She is one of the top collegiate pole vaulters in America.
And she became a champion while battling Lupus.
Nicole Hensley
A virtual hockey unknown, she had one Division I schloarship.
But she burst on to the national scene when she saved an
incredible 90 shots in a college hockey game.
And then went on to be a two time Olympian.j6eu5tsf.cloudfront.net/sidearm.sites/udayto
A virtual hockey unknown, she had one Division I schloarship.
But she burst on to the national scene when she saved an
incredible 90 shots in a college hockey game.
And then went on to be a two time Olympian.j6eu5tsf.cloudfront.net/sidearm.sites/udayto
Jason Bennetti
He was born premature and spent the first three months of his life in the hospital.
He was then diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy.
But he has overcome it all to get to the top of the broadcasting profession.
He was born premature and spent the first three months of his life in the hospital.
He was then diagnosed with Cerebral Palsy.
But he has overcome it all to get to the top of the broadcasting profession.
Bill Burke
When he retired from his law practice, he had
a couple items on his bucket list.
But no one thought one of those items was becoming
the oldest American to climb Mount Everest.
When he retired from his law practice, he had
a couple items on his bucket list.
But no one thought one of those items was becoming
the oldest American to climb Mount Everest.
Mark Grant
He is a former Major League Baseball pitcher
and now an extremely popular TV color commentator
for the San Diego Padres.
But he has been challenged - and blessed - with
a son with both Down Syndrome and Autism.
He is a former Major League Baseball pitcher
and now an extremely popular TV color commentator
for the San Diego Padres.
But he has been challenged - and blessed - with
a son with both Down Syndrome and Autism.
Ryan Lefebvre
He was a highly popular and successful play by play
announcer with the Kansas City Royals, when
he revealed to the public his battle with depression.
And today, his goal in life is to help others with
the same affliction.
He was a highly popular and successful play by play
announcer with the Kansas City Royals, when
he revealed to the public his battle with depression.
And today, his goal in life is to help others with
the same affliction.
Lynne Cox
She is one of the greatest ultra distance swimmers in history.
But she might best be known for single handedly
easing the Cold War tensions between the U.S.
and the Soviet Union.
Jon Weil
He is a Major League Baseball front office executive.
And his start in the game is unlike any other.
He began his big league career
as a bat boy.
He is a Major League Baseball front office executive.
And his start in the game is unlike any other.
He began his big league career
as a bat boy.
Ryan Spilborghs
He had a solid eight year MLB career.
But for two of the seasons, he had to courageously play through
the slow death of his mother.
He had a solid eight year MLB career.
But for two of the seasons, he had to courageously play through
the slow death of his mother.
Mike Krukow
He had a very successful 14 year major league baseball career, including
a 20 win season and being a finalist for the Cy Young Award.
But eight years ago, in the middle of his broadcast career, he
was diagnosed with an incurable muscle disease. But he refuses to let it even slow him down.
He had a very successful 14 year major league baseball career, including
a 20 win season and being a finalist for the Cy Young Award.
But eight years ago, in the middle of his broadcast career, he
was diagnosed with an incurable muscle disease. But he refuses to let it even slow him down.
Orlando Franklin
He overcame enormous odds, including homelessness and
incarceration, to become an NFL star.
He overcame enormous odds, including homelessness and
incarceration, to become an NFL star.
Brendan Tuohey
He went to the most divided places on earth to try to bring people together. Places like the Middle East, South Africa and Northern Ireland. And he did it by using the sport of basketball.
He went to the most divided places on earth to try to bring people together. Places like the Middle East, South Africa and Northern Ireland. And he did it by using the sport of basketball.
Sika Henry
After a brutal bike accident, she had serious thoughts
of retiring as a professional athlete.
But she decided she was going to keep racing.
And do it to inspire young, African American girls.
After a brutal bike accident, she had serious thoughts
of retiring as a professional athlete.
But she decided she was going to keep racing.
And do it to inspire young, African American girls.
Amby Burfoot
He was one of the greatest marathoners of his time, a winner
of the 1968 Boston Marathon.
And then he became perhaps the world's greatest
running journalist.
He was one of the greatest marathoners of his time, a winner
of the 1968 Boston Marathon.
And then he became perhaps the world's greatest
running journalist.
Jason Romero
He became legally blind as a teenager but refused
to let it shatter his athletic dreams. He did numerous marathons and
triathlons. Then became the first blind person to run across America.
He became legally blind as a teenager but refused
to let it shatter his athletic dreams. He did numerous marathons and
triathlons. Then became the first blind person to run across America.
Ryan Waters
He caught the climbing bug at age 18.
After six summits of Mount Everest and two record setting treks
to the North and South Poles, he is
still at it.
He caught the climbing bug at age 18.
After six summits of Mount Everest and two record setting treks
to the North and South Poles, he is
still at it.
Harvey Dawkins
Born with both Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy, he has shocked
the athletic world by becoming a successful cyclist and triathlete.
And he does it all for other challenged athletes.
Born with both Cerebral Palsy and Epilepsy, he has shocked
the athletic world by becoming a successful cyclist and triathlete.
And he does it all for other challenged athletes.
Dennis Vanderheiden
Motivated to help physically and mentally challenged kids
have the same athletic experiences he had, he started
guiding them through triathlons. And through his non-profit, Athletes In
Tandem, he has impacted hundreds of athletes and their families.
Motivated to help physically and mentally challenged kids
have the same athletic experiences he had, he started
guiding them through triathlons. And through his non-profit, Athletes In
Tandem, he has impacted hundreds of athletes and their families.
Chad Hennings
He went from college football All-American.
To war hero.
To a star in the NFL
He went from college football All-American.
To war hero.
To a star in the NFL
Barry Remington
He was a star college football player and successful businessman, when
his world was rocked with his daughter being born with a heart defect.
She endured two heart transplants and eventually passed away at age 24.
Now he has made sure her legacy lives on, by supporting other
heart transplant patients.
He was a star college football player and successful businessman, when
his world was rocked with his daughter being born with a heart defect.
She endured two heart transplants and eventually passed away at age 24.
Now he has made sure her legacy lives on, by supporting other
heart transplant patients.
Bob Babbitt
As a world class triathlete in the 1980's, he treasured the
thrill of competing in the sport. Now he is spending the rest of his life helping
the physically challenged do the same thing.
As a world class triathlete in the 1980's, he treasured the
thrill of competing in the sport. Now he is spending the rest of his life helping
the physically challenged do the same thing.
John Hessler
He was a star quarterback in college. And later a minor baseball player.
But his world was shattered when he barely
survived a horrible car accident. But today he finds joy and purpose in coaching high school baseball.
He was a star quarterback in college. And later a minor baseball player.
But his world was shattered when he barely
survived a horrible car accident. But today he finds joy and purpose in coaching high school baseball.
Kyle Garlett
He survived no fewer than four bouts of cancer.
But the effects of years of radiation and chemotherapy
forced him to undergo a heart transplant.
But then he became the first heart transplant recipient
to compete in the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon.
He survived no fewer than four bouts of cancer.
But the effects of years of radiation and chemotherapy
forced him to undergo a heart transplant.
But then he became the first heart transplant recipient
to compete in the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon.
Adam Nigon
He had no plans to play college basketball.
But through a crazy sequence of events, he become a Division I player.
Then became one of the best players in school history.
He had no plans to play college basketball.
But through a crazy sequence of events, he become a Division I player.
Then became one of the best players in school history.
Sarah Thomas
She is the greatest ultra swimmer in history.
She holds numerous long distance records, including swimming the
English Channel four times in succession.
But perhaps her greatest victory is over cancer.
She is the greatest ultra swimmer in history.
She holds numerous long distance records, including swimming the
English Channel four times in succession.
But perhaps her greatest victory is over cancer.
Micah Smith
She was a young and aspiring athlete, a freshman All-American
volleyball player. But then she quit the sport and fell into
a world of drug and alcohol abuse.
But today, she is clean and sober and dedicating her life
to helping others come out of the same darkness.
She was a young and aspiring athlete, a freshman All-American
volleyball player. But then she quit the sport and fell into
a world of drug and alcohol abuse.
But today, she is clean and sober and dedicating her life
to helping others come out of the same darkness.
Julie Lyons
She is one of the very best senior female ultra cyclists
in history, owning three world records.
But maybe more impressive is her work
with cancer patients.
She is one of the very best senior female ultra cyclists
in history, owning three world records.
But maybe more impressive is her work
with cancer patients.
Napoleon Kaufman
He was one of the very best running backs of his time, an All-Pro for the Oakland Raiders. But at the age of 28, in the prime of his career, he walked away from the game. And for a very good reason.
He was one of the very best running backs of his time, an All-Pro for the Oakland Raiders. But at the age of 28, in the prime of his career, he walked away from the game. And for a very good reason.
Bill Hancock
Bill Hancock, the Executive Director of the College Football Playoffs, has a story of both tragedy and triumph. Attempting to deal with the death of his son in a plane crash, he road his bicycle across the country. And made some incredible discoveries.
Bill Hancock, the Executive Director of the College Football Playoffs, has a story of both tragedy and triumph. Attempting to deal with the death of his son in a plane crash, he road his bicycle across the country. And made some incredible discoveries.
John Wooden
(Posthumously Told By A Family Member)
He is known as the greatest college basketball coach of all time.
Among his many accomplishments are incredible eight national championships in span of 10 seasons. But the Man might be even more impressive than the Coach.
(Posthumously Told By A Family Member)
He is known as the greatest college basketball coach of all time.
Among his many accomplishments are incredible eight national championships in span of 10 seasons. But the Man might be even more impressive than the Coach.
Bill Rodgers
He is the greatest marathoner in American history. He won the Boston Marathon four times and the New York Marathon four times. No one else has even come close.
He is the greatest marathoner in American history. He won the Boston Marathon four times and the New York Marathon four times. No one else has even come close.
Justin Wren
He became a star as an MMA and UFC fighter. One of the best heavyweights in the world, he had a 15-2 professional record. But after a six year battle with substance abuse, he found his purpose in Africa, empowering the most bullied people on the planet.
He became a star as an MMA and UFC fighter. One of the best heavyweights in the world, he had a 15-2 professional record. But after a six year battle with substance abuse, he found his purpose in Africa, empowering the most bullied people on the planet.
Jim Joyce
He was one of the very best MLB umpires ever. He got thousands of calls
right, in his career. But everyone remembers the one call he got wrong.
And almost no one remembers the life he saved before a game.
He was one of the very best MLB umpires ever. He got thousands of calls
right, in his career. But everyone remembers the one call he got wrong.
And almost no one remembers the life he saved before a game.
Kim Hess
On a dare from her brother, she climbed Mount Everest.
Then proceeded to become one of the greatest
female mountain climbers in history.
On a dare from her brother, she climbed Mount Everest.
Then proceeded to become one of the greatest
female mountain climbers in history.
Bryan Sederwall
All throughout his amateur basketball career, his
coaches told him he make a great coach himself.
He became a coach. But not of basketball. Today he
coaches the some of Denver's most destitute people.
All throughout his amateur basketball career, his
coaches told him he make a great coach himself.
He became a coach. But not of basketball. Today he
coaches the some of Denver's most destitute people.
Donna De Varona
She is one of the most iconic female sports figures of all time.
She was on the U.S. Olympic team age 13
and a gold medalist at age 17.
She then had a 40 year sportscasting career and
became one of America's greatest proponents of womens sports.
She is one of the most iconic female sports figures of all time.
She was on the U.S. Olympic team age 13
and a gold medalist at age 17.
She then had a 40 year sportscasting career and
became one of America's greatest proponents of womens sports.
Amanda Coker
After surgery to repair a hole in her heart, she
had a horrible bicycle accident that nearly took her life and
resulted in a traumatic brain injury.
But she overcame all of it to set no fewer than 11 world
cycling records.
After surgery to repair a hole in her heart, she
had a horrible bicycle accident that nearly took her life and
resulted in a traumatic brain injury.
But she overcame all of it to set no fewer than 11 world
cycling records.
Kevin Reilly
While playing for his hometown Philadelphia Eagles, he
received a cancer diagnosis.
The disease took away his NFL career, his
arm, shoulder and five ribs.
But he refused to let it take away his incredible zest for life.
While playing for his hometown Philadelphia Eagles, he
received a cancer diagnosis.
The disease took away his NFL career, his
arm, shoulder and five ribs.
But he refused to let it take away his incredible zest for life.
Jason Cohen
He found himself obese and in poor health, when he
began a running program. It led to his completing
one of the world's most challenging athletic
endeavors, which changed his life.
And to a film that has changed others' lives.
He found himself obese and in poor health, when he
began a running program. It led to his completing
one of the world's most challenging athletic
endeavors, which changed his life.
And to a film that has changed others' lives.
Lauryn Williams
One of the greatest athletes in American history, she is the
only woman to win medals in both Summer Olympics and
the Winter Olympics.
One of the greatest athletes in American history, she is the
only woman to win medals in both Summer Olympics and
the Winter Olympics.
Robert Paylor
In the NCAA National Championship Rugby Match, he sustained an
injury and was left completely paralyzed. In the month following the injury he contracted pneumonia and nearly passed away. He was told by everyone that, even with extensive physical therapy, he would never walk again or lead anything close to a normal life. He didn't listen.
In the NCAA National Championship Rugby Match, he sustained an
injury and was left completely paralyzed. In the month following the injury he contracted pneumonia and nearly passed away. He was told by everyone that, even with extensive physical therapy, he would never walk again or lead anything close to a normal life. He didn't listen.
Jeremiah Galyon
He had been a successful ultra-distance runner for years. Until one
day when he was hit with a massive heart attack. Doctors could not find a pulse for two hours but when they went to pull the plug, he had brain activity. He survived, miraculously, with no brain damage. And, miraculously, he is running again!
He had been a successful ultra-distance runner for years. Until one
day when he was hit with a massive heart attack. Doctors could not find a pulse for two hours but when they went to pull the plug, he had brain activity. He survived, miraculously, with no brain damage. And, miraculously, he is running again!
George Karl
He is one of the greatest coaches in NBA history. He is
number six on the all-time win list.
But even more impressive is his 3-0 record
against cancer.
He is one of the greatest coaches in NBA history. He is
number six on the all-time win list.
But even more impressive is his 3-0 record
against cancer.
Gene Caffrey
He was a very successful amateur triathlete and
marathoner, until he started having strange symptoms during races.
He was eventually diagnosed with MS.
And since then, he has been on an incredible
journey to fight the disease.
He was a very successful amateur triathlete and
marathoner, until he started having strange symptoms during races.
He was eventually diagnosed with MS.
And since then, he has been on an incredible
journey to fight the disease.
Drew Beckie
He was a talented and successful professional soccer player.
Until one day, out of the blue, he went into cardiace arrest.
He not only survived but made a miraculous return
to soccer.
He was a talented and successful professional soccer player.
Until one day, out of the blue, he went into cardiace arrest.
He not only survived but made a miraculous return
to soccer.
Tyler Hamilton
Like so many others, he got caught up in professional cycling's doping scandal.
And now he is spending the rest of his life paying for his cycling sins.
Like so many others, he got caught up in professional cycling's doping scandal.
And now he is spending the rest of his life paying for his cycling sins.
Nancy Guth
When her teenage son was killed in a car
accident, she turned to cycling to combat the pain and sorrow.
And then became one of the greatest masters cyclists
in American history.
When her teenage son was killed in a car
accident, she turned to cycling to combat the pain and sorrow.
And then became one of the greatest masters cyclists
in American history.
Steve Heidenreich
He was one of America's best middle distance runners, a
great bet to make the Olympic Track & Field Team.
Until his dreams were shattered by a hit and run driver.
He was one of America's best middle distance runners, a
great bet to make the Olympic Track & Field Team.
Until his dreams were shattered by a hit and run driver.
Jennifer Strong McConahie
Never an elite athlete athlete, she walked on to the rowing team in college.
But she has become one of the world's most multifacited
and successful adventure athletes.
Never an elite athlete athlete, she walked on to the rowing team in college.
But she has become one of the world's most multifacited
and successful adventure athletes.
Jordan Romero
One of the world's greatest athletic achievements is conquering Mount Everest. So how about doing at age 13! Jordan Romero became the youngest person in history to climb Mt. Everest. And he was just getting started.
One of the world's greatest athletic achievements is conquering Mount Everest. So how about doing at age 13! Jordan Romero became the youngest person in history to climb Mt. Everest. And he was just getting started.
Jeremy Poincenot
As a 20 year college sophomore, he started losing his eyesight.
Within months he was legally blind.
Then, through the encouragement of his parents, he
turned to the game of golf.
And became a world champion.
As a 20 year college sophomore, he started losing his eyesight.
Within months he was legally blind.
Then, through the encouragement of his parents, he
turned to the game of golf.
And became a world champion.
Alex Kor
His father is known as the greatest fan in Purdue University Basketball history. He is also a Nazi Concentration Camp Survivor. As is his late mother. Dr. Alex Kor shares his parents' absolutely incredible journeys.
His father is known as the greatest fan in Purdue University Basketball history. He is also a Nazi Concentration Camp Survivor. As is his late mother. Dr. Alex Kor shares his parents' absolutely incredible journeys.
Erik Newsholme
He attempted the 3,000 mile Race Across America the first time
in 2015 and was forced to quit with less than 700 miles to go.
He tried it again in 2016 and dropped out with just 110 miles left.
He tried it a third time in 2021 and, despite a trip to a hospital during the race, he finsihed. And made cycling history.
He attempted the 3,000 mile Race Across America the first time
in 2015 and was forced to quit with less than 700 miles to go.
He tried it again in 2016 and dropped out with just 110 miles left.
He tried it a third time in 2021 and, despite a trip to a hospital during the race, he finsihed. And made cycling history.
Mark Pattison
He went from the NFL,
to one of the world's greatest Mountaineers.
He went from the NFL,
to one of the world's greatest Mountaineers.
Katie Spotz
She rowed solo across the Atlantic Ocean.
At the age of 22.
And she was so far from from being done
with her incredible athletic exploits.
She rowed solo across the Atlantic Ocean.
At the age of 22.
And she was so far from from being done
with her incredible athletic exploits.
Reza Zadeh
He was born in Iran and into a Muslim family.
But his incredible journey has taken him to being a college football player
to now the chaplain of the Denver Broncos
Reza Zadeh
He was born in Iran and into a Muslim family.
But his incredible journey has taken him to being a college football player
to now the chaplain of the Denver Broncos
Tori McClure
She was the first female and first American to BOTH ski the length of the South Pole AND row solo across the Atlantic Ocean. And today she is a University President.
She was the first female and first American to BOTH ski the length of the South Pole AND row solo across the Atlantic Ocean. And today she is a University President.
Darren Miller
He is considered the greatest endurance swimmer in American history.
And every stroke is for sick children.
He is considered the greatest endurance swimmer in American history.
And every stroke is for sick children.
Bob Chillemi
When his champion swimmer son died from substance
abuse, he did the only thing he could think of to honor his memory.
Dedicate the rest of his life to helping others avoid the same fate.
When his champion swimmer son died from substance
abuse, he did the only thing he could think of to honor his memory.
Dedicate the rest of his life to helping others avoid the same fate.
Rebecca Rusch
She is known as the greatest female endurance athlete is American history.
Excelling in numerous sports, she is a seven time national champion.
But perhaps her greatest accomplishment is riding the length of the
Ho Chi Minh Trail. And finding her father's burial site.
She is known as the greatest female endurance athlete is American history.
Excelling in numerous sports, she is a seven time national champion.
But perhaps her greatest accomplishment is riding the length of the
Ho Chi Minh Trail. And finding her father's burial site.
Janne Kouri
He was an All-American football player and then
highly successful entepreneur. He was a young man living a charmed life until a diving accident left him in a wheelchair. A wheelchair that propelled him across the country, to raise money for others in his same predicament.
He was an All-American football player and then
highly successful entepreneur. He was a young man living a charmed life until a diving accident left him in a wheelchair. A wheelchair that propelled him across the country, to raise money for others in his same predicament.
Willie Stewart
He lost his arm in a construction accident as a teenager.
But the tragedy would not prevent him from
becoming one of America's greatest endurance athletes.
He lost his arm in a construction accident as a teenager.
But the tragedy would not prevent him from
becoming one of America's greatest endurance athletes.
Meb Keflezighi
He went from African refugee
to United States citizen.
Then to one of the greatest distance runners
in American history.
He went from African refugee
to United States citizen.
Then to one of the greatest distance runners
in American history.
Michael Cohen
A heart transplant recipient, he road his bicycle all the way across America
to meet the mother of the man who's heart saved his life.
A heart transplant recipient, he road his bicycle all the way across America
to meet the mother of the man who's heart saved his life.
Rudy Garcia Tolson
Born with multiple birth defects, he underwent 15 operations by the time
he was five years old. He and his parents then decided it would be better to walk
with prosthetics than be confined to a wheelchair. So he had both legs
amputated above the knee. He then, almost instantly, became one of the greatest challenged athletes in American history.
Scott Nydam
He moved to New Mexico when his wife took a job on the Navajo Indian Reservation.
And this former pro cyclist was shocked to discover there were no bike shops
on the reservation. Zero. 175,00 people in 27,000 square miles, over three states, and not a single shop.
So he did something about it. And is now changing the lives of young Native Americans.
He moved to New Mexico when his wife took a job on the Navajo Indian Reservation.
And this former pro cyclist was shocked to discover there were no bike shops
on the reservation. Zero. 175,00 people in 27,000 square miles, over three states, and not a single shop.
So he did something about it. And is now changing the lives of young Native Americans.
Matt Russell
It all started with a couple beers on the road, to pass the time, as an NFL scout.
But it turned into raging alcohol abuse.
And after a DUI nearly cost him his family, his very successful career as an
NFL Executive, and his life, he has been completely sober for years.
It all started with a couple beers on the road, to pass the time, as an NFL scout.
But it turned into raging alcohol abuse.
And after a DUI nearly cost him his family, his very successful career as an
NFL Executive, and his life, he has been completely sober for years.
Roderick Sewell
He was born with the tibia missing in both legs. To a single mother.
At age two, he had both legs amputated, just above the knee.
For five years, starting at age eight, he and his mother lived in a homeless shelter.
But today, he has a college degree. And an Ironman Triathlon World Record.
He was born with the tibia missing in both legs. To a single mother.
At age two, he had both legs amputated, just above the knee.
For five years, starting at age eight, he and his mother lived in a homeless shelter.
But today, he has a college degree. And an Ironman Triathlon World Record.
Tom Byrum
In a sport where nearly every pro grew up on a country club, with
private lessons and the best equipment, he grew up in a town of 650
people, in cold climate. And on a public, 9 hole course that he mowed himself.
With sand greens.
In a sport where nearly every pro grew up on a country club, with
private lessons and the best equipment, he grew up in a town of 650
people, in cold climate. And on a public, 9 hole course that he mowed himself.
With sand greens.
Erich Manser &
Matt Smith
He set a world record in the Ironman Triathlon for
a visually impaired competitor.
And he says it was impossible without his incredible guide.
Matt Smith
He set a world record in the Ironman Triathlon for
a visually impaired competitor.
And he says it was impossible without his incredible guide.
John Howard
When it comes to the greatest athletes in American history, people
don't normally think of John Howard.
But maybe they should!
When it comes to the greatest athletes in American history, people
don't normally think of John Howard.
But maybe they should!
Kathrine Switzer
Despite the race director attacking her on the course, she completed the race, becoming the first woman to officially finish the Boston Marathon. And opened the door for millions of female runners.
Despite the race director attacking her on the course, she completed the race, becoming the first woman to officially finish the Boston Marathon. And opened the door for millions of female runners.
Ryan Ledger
He is a former college football player who lost a son at
just 33 days . And since that day, he has done all he can
to help other parents going through the same thing.
He is a former college football player who lost a son at
just 33 days . And since that day, he has done all he can
to help other parents going through the same thing.
Phil Sutherland
He was told he would never live past his mid 20's because of Type 1 Diabetes.
He not only proved the experts wrong but formed a world class cycling team
with nothing but the same people.
He was told he would never live past his mid 20's because of Type 1 Diabetes.
He not only proved the experts wrong but formed a world class cycling team
with nothing but the same people.
Matt Vossler
When his childhood buddy had cancer and a leg amputated, he refused to sit back and do nothing. He decided to swim. And after $85 million donated to cancer research, he is still at it. And has inspired thousands of others to follow.
When his childhood buddy had cancer and a leg amputated, he refused to sit back and do nothing. He decided to swim. And after $85 million donated to cancer research, he is still at it. And has inspired thousands of others to follow.
Tyler Polumbus
His mother was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer while he was still playing in the NFL. She was given six months to live. But six months turned into six years. When she passed away last spring, he did something extraordinary in her memory. On his bicycle.
His mother was diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer while he was still playing in the NFL. She was given six months to live. But six months turned into six years. When she passed away last spring, he did something extraordinary in her memory. On his bicycle.
Frank Shorter
What has always been known is that he is one of America's most iconic distance runners. Maybe the best ever. His marathon victory at the 1972 Olympics in Munich remains one the greatest triumphs in U.S. history.
But what hasn't been known, until now, is the dark, almost inconcievable childhood, at the hands of a brutally abusive father.
What has always been known is that he is one of America's most iconic distance runners. Maybe the best ever. His marathon victory at the 1972 Olympics in Munich remains one the greatest triumphs in U.S. history.
But what hasn't been known, until now, is the dark, almost inconcievable childhood, at the hands of a brutally abusive father.
Rick Byrd
He spent 33 years as the Head Basketball Coach at Belmont University. He retired with the 12th most wins in NCAA history. But Rick Byrd might best be known as for the unprecedented academic success of his players.
He spent 33 years as the Head Basketball Coach at Belmont University. He retired with the 12th most wins in NCAA history. But Rick Byrd might best be known as for the unprecedented academic success of his players.
Pat Gillis
He had the opportunity to turn professional in not one sport, but three. But he turned them all down for the chance to follow his passion and his dream. The passion and dream were to help people live better lives. And in the process, he became an incredible inspiration.
He had the opportunity to turn professional in not one sport, but three. But he turned them all down for the chance to follow his passion and his dream. The passion and dream were to help people live better lives. And in the process, he became an incredible inspiration.
Jake Olson
Unable to hold off retinal cancer any longer, he had both eyes surgically removed at age 12. But being completely blind would not stop him from his dream of becoming a college athlete. Incredibly, he became a long snapper for the USC Trojans. And made history in the process!
Unable to hold off retinal cancer any longer, he had both eyes surgically removed at age 12. But being completely blind would not stop him from his dream of becoming a college athlete. Incredibly, he became a long snapper for the USC Trojans. And made history in the process!
Megan Blunk
She was a bit of rebellious teen. A young woman from Tacoma, WA who had no clear direction in her life. Until a motorcycle accident, where she broke 18 bones and barely survived, left her a parapalegic. The same motorcycle accident that led her to become one of the greatest wheelchair basketball players in U.S. history.
She was a bit of rebellious teen. A young woman from Tacoma, WA who had no clear direction in her life. Until a motorcycle accident, where she broke 18 bones and barely survived, left her a parapalegic. The same motorcycle accident that led her to become one of the greatest wheelchair basketball players in U.S. history.
Jason Romero
After being declared legally blind in middle school, Jason Romero manuevered through college and law school, graduating both with honors. But the mental battle against blindness began to take a toll. Until he discovered endurance events. 15 world records later, he is still at it.
After being declared legally blind in middle school, Jason Romero manuevered through college and law school, graduating both with honors. But the mental battle against blindness began to take a toll. Until he discovered endurance events. 15 world records later, he is still at it.
Dan Jansen
On the very morning he was to skate his Olympic race, the race he was favored to win the gold medal in, he got the news that his sister had passed away from luekemia. He fell in the first turn of that race.
And the next race.
But finally, in his fourth Olympics, he won a speedskating gold medal. And dedicated it to his late sibling.
On the very morning he was to skate his Olympic race, the race he was favored to win the gold medal in, he got the news that his sister had passed away from luekemia. He fell in the first turn of that race.
And the next race.
But finally, in his fourth Olympics, he won a speedskating gold medal. And dedicated it to his late sibling.
Muffy Davis
She was on track to become America's next great snow skier, until a tragic ski accident almost took her life and left her a parpalegic. But the ordeal didn't ever really slow her down. She still became an Olympian. In two different sports. And a gold medalist in one.
She was on track to become America's next great snow skier, until a tragic ski accident almost took her life and left her a parpalegic. But the ordeal didn't ever really slow her down. She still became an Olympian. In two different sports. And a gold medalist in one.
Kent & Bambi Dixey
After they lost their two youngest sons in a tragic houseboat ordeal, Kent & Bambi Dixey decided to honor their baseball loving boys by buidling one of the great youth baseball complexes in the state of Colorado.
After they lost their two youngest sons in a tragic houseboat ordeal, Kent & Bambi Dixey decided to honor their baseball loving boys by buidling one of the great youth baseball complexes in the state of Colorado.
Sue Reynolds
At 335 pounds, Sue Reynolds decided she had had enough. Unable to pick up her keys if she dropped them, or even tie her shoes, she began an incredible transformation. She lost 200 pounds. And in the process, found out that she was one of the best triathletes in the world.
At 335 pounds, Sue Reynolds decided she had had enough. Unable to pick up her keys if she dropped them, or even tie her shoes, she began an incredible transformation. She lost 200 pounds. And in the process, found out that she was one of the best triathletes in the world.
Al McCoy
Every once in a while, in sportscasting, there comes along a legendary announcer. We saw it in baseball with Vin Scully. And we have one in basketball. Al McCoy has been the Voice of the Phoenx Suns for 48 years. One team. One voice. 48 years. For 48 consecutive seasons, he has combined talent with passion, warmth and character.
Every once in a while, in sportscasting, there comes along a legendary announcer. We saw it in baseball with Vin Scully. And we have one in basketball. Al McCoy has been the Voice of the Phoenx Suns for 48 years. One team. One voice. 48 years. For 48 consecutive seasons, he has combined talent with passion, warmth and character.
Major Taylor
Featured Postumously
Guest was Lynne Tolman, President of the Major Taylor Association
Many refer to him as the Michael Jordan or Tiger Woods of his time. He was a cyclist and the very first African American to win a world championship in any sport. He set new fewer than six world cycling records. But perhaps his greatest accomplishment was overcoming relentless and incredibly ugly racism.
Featured Postumously
Guest was Lynne Tolman, President of the Major Taylor Association
Many refer to him as the Michael Jordan or Tiger Woods of his time. He was a cyclist and the very first African American to win a world championship in any sport. He set new fewer than six world cycling records. But perhaps his greatest accomplishment was overcoming relentless and incredibly ugly racism.
Clint Hurdle
He was on the cover of Sports Illustrated at the age of 20, described as the next Major League Baseball phenom. But the baseball playing career never met expectations. He then became a successful coach and manager, all the while fighting personal demons. But the birth of a daughter, with special needs, changed everything.
He was on the cover of Sports Illustrated at the age of 20, described as the next Major League Baseball phenom. But the baseball playing career never met expectations. He then became a successful coach and manager, all the while fighting personal demons. But the birth of a daughter, with special needs, changed everything.
Gage Hecht
He is one of America's best young cyclists. The Colorado native is a youth national champion in both Road Racing and Cyclo-Cross and a stage winner in the Colorado Classic. Yet, because of the Covid 19 Pandemic, he has no where to race.
For now.
He is one of America's best young cyclists. The Colorado native is a youth national champion in both Road Racing and Cyclo-Cross and a stage winner in the Colorado Classic. Yet, because of the Covid 19 Pandemic, he has no where to race.
For now.
Jim Morris
His was one of the greatest comebacks in the history of professional sports. He made his Major League debut at age 35. A hit movie, The Rookie, was made about his story. But the comeback he has made in his personal life since the film might be even more impressive.
His was one of the greatest comebacks in the history of professional sports. He made his Major League debut at age 35. A hit movie, The Rookie, was made about his story. But the comeback he has made in his personal life since the film might be even more impressive.
Bryce Weiler
He was born blind. But that never stopped Bryce Weiler from being an athlete, sportscaster, consultant and motivational speaker. Being blind has actually inspired him. It has inspired him to dedicate his life to changing the lives of others with disabilities.
Dave Burchett
He had long and very successful career in TV production, iuncluding 37 years the the TV Director for the Texas Rangers. But these days Dave Burchett is known more his book writing than his TV work. He has a passion for writing, a passion fueled, in part, by the death of his daughter.
He had long and very successful career in TV production, iuncluding 37 years the the TV Director for the Texas Rangers. But these days Dave Burchett is known more his book writing than his TV work. He has a passion for writing, a passion fueled, in part, by the death of his daughter.
Dave Dravecky
He was in the prime of his Major League Baseball career when the diagnosis came. Cancer. In his left, pitching arm. Surgery was performed and the comeback began. But no one could have imagined what would happen next to Dave Dravecky.
He was in the prime of his Major League Baseball career when the diagnosis came. Cancer. In his left, pitching arm. Surgery was performed and the comeback began. But no one could have imagined what would happen next to Dave Dravecky.
Craig DeMartino
He was a talented, experienced, and passionate rock climber. Until one day in Rocky Mountain national Park, when miscommunication with a climbing partner changed his life. He fell 105 feet. And miraculously survived. They were more than a dozen broken bones, including feet and ankles that literally exploded. Months later a decision was made amputate a leg. But he came back. And today he’s considered the best para climber in the world.
He was a talented, experienced, and passionate rock climber. Until one day in Rocky Mountain national Park, when miscommunication with a climbing partner changed his life. He fell 105 feet. And miraculously survived. They were more than a dozen broken bones, including feet and ankles that literally exploded. Months later a decision was made amputate a leg. But he came back. And today he’s considered the best para climber in the world.
Scott Linebrink
After a successfull Major League Baseball career, Scott Linebrink was ready to retire to the life pro athletes were supposed to retire to. Spending more time with family, golf, maybe a long neglected hobby. Until a trip to Haiti changed everything. Today he is on the frontlines of a charity saving lives, with clean water, in Third World Countries.
After a successfull Major League Baseball career, Scott Linebrink was ready to retire to the life pro athletes were supposed to retire to. Spending more time with family, golf, maybe a long neglected hobby. Until a trip to Haiti changed everything. Today he is on the frontlines of a charity saving lives, with clean water, in Third World Countries.
Jessica Cox
This young woman from Tucson is going to have you shaking your head in amazement. Jessica Cox is the first and only person with no arms to become a licensed pilot. She flies a single engine plane with her feet, one foot on the pedals and one on the yoke. She also plays the piano, types 25 words per minute and texts like a champ. She has a driver's license with no restrictions, ties her shoes and effortlessly puts in and removes her contacts. Get ready to be completely moved by this Amazing American!
This young woman from Tucson is going to have you shaking your head in amazement. Jessica Cox is the first and only person with no arms to become a licensed pilot. She flies a single engine plane with her feet, one foot on the pedals and one on the yoke. She also plays the piano, types 25 words per minute and texts like a champ. She has a driver's license with no restrictions, ties her shoes and effortlessly puts in and removes her contacts. Get ready to be completely moved by this Amazing American!
Jim Cederberg
It started with a trip to Kenya to simply introduce kids to the sport of baseball. But what that experiecne has led to for Jim Cederberg is truly remarkable
Tammy Krause
It's every parent’s absolute worst nightmare. Your young child has an illness. A serious illness, one that might take his or her life. In the case of Tammy Krause, the child was her daughter, and just 5 years old. Gabby Krause was found with a malignant tumor in her head one day before her 5th birthday. She left the world not long after. Gabby Krause would leave the world- but she also left the world a gift. A gift her mom Tammy carries on to this day.
It's every parent’s absolute worst nightmare. Your young child has an illness. A serious illness, one that might take his or her life. In the case of Tammy Krause, the child was her daughter, and just 5 years old. Gabby Krause was found with a malignant tumor in her head one day before her 5th birthday. She left the world not long after. Gabby Krause would leave the world- but she also left the world a gift. A gift her mom Tammy carries on to this day.
Jamie Ketchum
Jamie Ketchum survived a car accident that was as horrific as one could possibly fathom. A dump truck blew a tire on I-25 in Denver and slammed into the SUV driven by her husband and occupied by her and her parents. Her father died in the accident, her mother and husband both seriously injured. Jamie barely survived, was burnt on an astonding 95% of her body and had both legs and an arm amputated. She spent a record 425 days in a Denver hospital.
Jamie Ketchum survived a car accident that was as horrific as one could possibly fathom. A dump truck blew a tire on I-25 in Denver and slammed into the SUV driven by her husband and occupied by her and her parents. Her father died in the accident, her mother and husband both seriously injured. Jamie barely survived, was burnt on an astonding 95% of her body and had both legs and an arm amputated. She spent a record 425 days in a Denver hospital.
Danny Chew
He was one of the world's best endurance cyclists. He's a former professional road racer who turned to ultra-cycling and won the grueling Race Across America twice. He set a personal goal of riding 1 million miles. He almost got there. A cycling crash in 2016 left him paralyzed from the chest down. Today, Danny Chew is pushing to those 1 million miles from a hand cycle.
He was one of the world's best endurance cyclists. He's a former professional road racer who turned to ultra-cycling and won the grueling Race Across America twice. He set a personal goal of riding 1 million miles. He almost got there. A cycling crash in 2016 left him paralyzed from the chest down. Today, Danny Chew is pushing to those 1 million miles from a hand cycle.
Brent & Kyle Pease
The ultimate story of brotherly love began when Kyle Pease, who has Cerebal Palsy, asked his older if he, too, could be a triathlete. Older brother Kyle refused to say no to his sibling, and together they figured out a way to do triathlons as one. The incredible journey led the Pease brothers to become the first "push assisted" brother duo to complete the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon.
The ultimate story of brotherly love began when Kyle Pease, who has Cerebal Palsy, asked his older if he, too, could be a triathlete. Older brother Kyle refused to say no to his sibling, and together they figured out a way to do triathlons as one. The incredible journey led the Pease brothers to become the first "push assisted" brother duo to complete the Hawaii Ironman Triathlon.