The Hog Pod with Bo Mattingly - podcast cover

The Hog Pod with Bo Mattingly

Sport & Storythehogpod.libsyn.com
The official podcast of the Arkansas Razorbacks. This weekly podcast features some of the best Razorbacks stories from past and present. Three-time Arkansas Sportscaster of the Year Bo Mattingly and the Hogs+ Team produce unique stories featuring current and former student-athletes, coaches, staff members and fans. The podcast takes fans into the heart of the stories that matter to Razorback fans.
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Episodes

270: The Thurmans: A Family Legacy

In this episode, we explore the incredible legacy of the Thurman family at the University of Arkansas. Scotty Thurman, known for his iconic shot in the 1994 National Championship, and his wife, Regina, a former Razorback Pom Squad member, raised their family with a deep Razorback connection. Their children, Romani and Scotty Jr., followed in their footsteps, each becoming Razorback athletes in volleyball and football. We dive into stories of their competitive family spirit, the values and work e...

Nov 11, 202439 min

269. Colby Hale: From Underdog to Powerhouse

In this episode, we sit down with Arkansas soccer head coach Colby Hale, the driving force behind the Razorbacks’ rise to powerhouse status. Since taking over a struggling program in 2011, Hale has transformed Arkansas into one of the nation’s top teams, setting records and reaching new heights. He shares insights on building a winning culture, setting elite goals, and fostering a relentless belief among his players. From foundational firsts to the pursuit of a national championship, Hale discus...

Nov 04, 202444 min

268. Yaseen Abdalla: Heritage, Heart, and Olympic Glory

In this episode of The Hog Pod , we sit down with three-time All-American and Olympian Yaseen Abdalla to hear his remarkable journey from humble beginnings to representing Sudan on the world stage. Yaseen shares how a simple run during a family vacation sparked his love for the sport, despite initial struggles in high school. He reflects on the moments when he almost quit, but small victories kept him going. Yaseen also dives deep into his Sudanese heritage, discussing how his parents' influence...

Oct 28, 202433 min

267. Kenny Payne: Answering the Call

In this episode of The Hog Pod , we sit down with Arkansas assistant basketball coach Kenny Payne to discuss his journey to Fayetteville, his close relationship with John Calipari, and the philosophy that drives him. Payne opens up about the importance of building strong relationships with players and how developing NBA talent requires more than just skill—it's about character, trust, and helping them achieve their dreams. He also shares insights into this year’s team, the recruiting process, an...

Oct 21, 202434 min

266. Cam Ball: Gridiron Grillmaster

In this episode of The Hog Pod , we sit down with Razorbacks defensive lineman Cam Ball. Known for his power on the field, Cam shares the story behind his journey to Arkansas, his deep-rooted loyalty, and the work ethic instilled by his father. Beyond football, Cam opens up about his passion for cooking, which led him to start his own barbecue business, "Ball’s Barbecue." From his upbringing in Atlanta to dreaming of the NFL, Cam talks about the lessons he’s learned, the importance of giving bac...

Oct 14, 202439 min

265. Redemption: 1999 Tennessee Win

The 1999 Arkansas Razorbacks. A team fueled by the heartbreak of the previous year and the tragedy of losing a teammate. A season featuring one of the greatest victories in Razorback football history. Redemption serves as the highly anticipated sequel to the Emmy-nominated Hogs+ original film, Resurgence, which followed the 1998 season and the heartbreaking loss to the Volunteers. This new documentary picks up where the previous film left off, taking viewers on the emotional rollercoaster of the...

Oct 07, 202418 minEp. 265

264. Ja'Quinden Jackson: Strength in Struggle

This episode of The Hog Pod features an in-depth conversation with Arkansas running back Ja'Quinden Jackson. JJ opens up about his journey from growing up in Dallas, Texas, to navigating the challenges of transitioning from quarterback to running back. Playing football at Texas, Utah, and eventually making his way to Arkansas. He reflects on his struggles, including injuries and personal losses, and the motivation he draws from his family, particularly his mother, who has been a driving force in...

Sep 30, 202436 minEp. 264

263. Cora Hair: Kicking Cancer

In this episode of The Hog Pod , we sit down with University of Arkansas soccer player Cora Hair, who shares her incredible journey of overcoming adversity. Diagnosed with papillary thyroid carcinoma at just 18 years old, Cora takes us through the shocking moment she found out about her cancer, the emotional and physical challenges of treatment, and the powerful support she received from her family, teammates, and coaches. Through candid reflection, Cora opens up about the impact this experience...

Sep 23, 202439 minEp. 263

262. Fernando Carmona Jr: Late Start, Big Impact

In this episode of The Hog Pod , we sit down with Razorback offensive lineman Fernando Carmona Jr., whose unconventional football journey is nothing short of inspiring. Fernando shares how he started his football career late in high school, playing only seven games before injury struck. With no senior season due to COVID, Fernando took matters into his own hands, creating and sharing recruiting highlights on social media in a bid to get noticed by college scouts. He talks about his initial years...

Sep 16, 202432 min

261. Hannah Hogue: Setting a Standard

Hogs Plus host and producer, Tera Talmadge, sat down with senior volleyball setter, Hannah Hogue to talk about the Razorback’s highly anticipated season following the program’s first trip to the Elite Eight. She talks about stepping up as a leader, welcoming an old teammate as an assistant coach, and what to expect from this year’s squad. -------- The full video version of this episode, including behind-the-scenes stories and insights from Hannah's life and career, is available exclusively on Ho...

Sep 09, 202429 min

260. Taylen Green: Pick Your Poison

When Bobby Petrino was hired as Arkansas' new Offensive Coordinator, he was told to find a quarterback. For Petrino, Taylen Green was the guy. We sat down with the dual-threat QB to talk about his full-circle decision to join Petrino's offense, what makes this team so special, and why he's so excited about the offense this year. -------- The full video version of this episode, including behind-the-scenes stories and insights, is available exclusively on HogsPlus.com Follow us on social media! Tw...

Sep 02, 202431 minEp. 260

258. Switzer: Part 3 - The Boys & Beyond

In part 3 of this three-part series, Clay Henry sits down with the legendary recruiter, Coach Barry Switzer, to talk about his relationship with Jerry Jones, his path to the Cowboys, winning a Super Bowl, and give insights on the landscape of modern college football. This episode is an audio version of a 3-part documentary series, but we couldn't include everything. The full film version is available exclusively on HogsPlus.com . -------- The full video version of this episode, including behind-...

Aug 26, 202420 min

259. Sam Pittman: Embrace the Hog

We sit down for an exclusive interview with Sam Pittman as he prepares for his 5th season. Coach takes us through fall camp and gives fans his expectations for the team. He breaks it all down: what changes they made in the offseason, how much control Petrino will have over the offense, his confidence in Taylen Green at QB, and why he thinks this is the best team he's had yet. -------- The full video version of this episode, including behind-the-scenes stories and insights, is available exclusive...

Aug 26, 202442 min

257: Barry Switzer: Part 2 - The Heydays

In part two of this three-part series, Clay Henry sits down with the legendary recruiter, Coach Barry Switzer, to talk about his coaching tree, larger-than-life personality, unique recruiting strategies, his relationships with fellow coaches, and his Orange Bowls versus Arkansas while at Oklahoma. Switzer takes us through his collegiate coaching journey and explains how he reached the pinnacle of the sport as a college coach. This episode is an audio version of a 3-part documentary series, but w...

Aug 19, 202426 min

256. Barry Switzer: Part 1 - The Roots

In part one of this three-part series, Clay Henry sits down with Hall of Fame coach Barry Switzer to talk about his roots in Crossett Arkansas and his journey to becoming a Razorback. Switzer takes us through his family's time in California during World War II, his father's bootlegging days, how it affected him, his quitting football, and his decision to come to Arkansas. This episode is an audio version of a 3-part documentary series, but we couldn't include everything. The full film version is...

Aug 12, 202423 min

FROM THE VAULT: Sidney Moncrief

FROM THE VAULT Sidney Moncrief is a Basketball Hall of Famer and a member of the legendary “Triplets” who led Arkansas to the 1978 Final Four. We start our conversation with the five-time NBA All-Star about what he’s most proud of in his career (3:25), what growing up in Arkansas was like and how he started playing basketball. We talk about how he ended up at Arkansas with Eddie Sutton (16:06), and how Sutton helped unlock the Triplets’ potential (23:40). Moncrief tells us what made him a great ...

Jul 29, 202452 min

FROM THE VAULT: Joe Adams

FROM THE VAULT Joe Adams’ football career could be summed up with one word: Electrifying. He returned five career punts for touchdowns—third in SEC history—won national awards and was a first-team All-American. But his time as a Razorback wouldn’t have happened without a last-minute change of heart. The signing day decision to play for his home-state Razorbacks meant the Hogs would be loaded with some all-time greats. But Adams didn’t want to take on the task of stepping into another legend’s nu...

Jul 22, 202453 min

FROM THE VAULT: Anthony Lucas

FROM THE VAULT Anthony Lucas was ahead of his time. The talented receiver made big play after big play and rewrote the Arkansas record books in the late ‘90s. Those records would stand until the age of wide-open offense came to college football. And yet he still holds the career record for most 100-yard receiving games. He’s one of the greats. But how much did he have to overcome to get there? Lucas didn’t have a good enough ACT score to qualify out of high school. But instead of going the JUCO ...

Jul 15, 202455 min

FROM THE VAULT: How Arkansas Joined the SEC

FROM THE VAULT Over thirty years ago, something happened that would change the course of Arkansas athletics forever—the Razorbacks left the Southwest Conference for the SEC. It’s a move that has been a boon for the Razorbacks—not only did they join what’s become the best conference in collegiate athletics, but the financial benefits have allowed Arkansas to be nationally competitive with some of the best facilities in the country. But the move didn’t happen overnight. It took thought, planning a...

Jul 08, 202438 min

255. Jaydon Hibbert: All About the Vibes

Jaydon Hibbert's resume speaks for itself—2x NCAA Champion, World Under 20 Triple Jump Record, Bowerman Trophy Award Winner & Olympic qualifier. And he's done it before turning 20. You'd think the global success at such a young age, track would consume him. But, the Jamaican native is all about keeping the vibes good. Known as (_.wunderkid_) on social media Jaydon is all about fusing his two worlds together—as a track star and a rising content creator, traveler, and fashion guru. With world ...

Jul 01, 202446 minEp. 255

254: Hunter Henry: The Roommates

In this special edition of The Hog Pod, we’ve partnered up with former Razorback football players, Austin Allen & Brooks Ellis, to bring you an exclusive interview with Mackey Award-winner, former Arkansas tight end & current New England Patriot, Hunter Henry. The former roommates talk about everything from Henry’s rise in the sport, their dynamic as teammates, to his coast-to-coast journey in the NFL -------- The full video version of this episode, including behind-the-scenes stories an...

Jun 24, 202458 minEp. 254

253. Zvonimir Ivišić: Big Z

Zvonimir Ivišić, aka Big Z, filled the first spot on Coach John Calipari's—following him from Kentucky. Growing up in Croatia, Zvonimir always loved basketball. His 7'2" height never kept him from becoming a well-rounded player. He played as a guard through most of high school before signing with an amateur league right out of school, catching the eye of Cal from across the world. Big Z has been loyal to Cal ever since, following him from Kentucky to Arkansas, and plans to be a huge part of his ...

Jun 17, 202431 min

252. Will McEntire: Swiss Army Knife

Will McEntire has been a staple in the Razorback bullpen for years. He's done it all: started, closing, relief work. Whatever the Hogs need to win the game he's willing to make it happen. The Arkansas native has been through a roller coaster of adversity during his career, from reworking his entire approach to the game after redshirting, to leading the Hogs to victory in Omaha. But, he has learned to adapt and make the most of every situation he's thrown into—a skill that has led him to rack up ...

May 30, 202433 minEp. 252

251. Hagen Smith: Strikeout King

Hagen Smith is Arkansas' new all-time strikeout leader. But, his pitching prowess didn't happen by chance—for Smith, mediocrity has never been an option. He's had success throughout his career with the Hogs', but it has never been enough for him. After underperforming, in his eyes, last season he made it his goal to be the top pitcher in the country. By all accounts he's succeeded, leading the country in ERA & strikeouts per 9 innings at the end of the regular season. We sat down with Hagen ...

May 27, 202434 minEp. 251

250. Mason Molina: A Missing Piece

Mason Molina was one of the hottest commodities in the transfer portal in the offseason. With dozens of schools interested Arkansas made him a pitch he couldn't refuse. We sat down with the Texas Tech transfer to talk about his baseball journey and how he hopes to be the missing piece the Razorbacks need to go the distance. -------- The full video version of this episode, including behind-the-scenes stories and insights, is available exclusively on HogsPlus.com Follow us on social media! Twitter...

May 20, 202441 minEp. 250

249. Peyton Stovall: No Regrets

Peyton Stovall is a name Arkansas fans were familiar with before he ever reached campus. He was a top high school prospect and projected to be a first-round pick in the MLB draft. Looking at a 7-figure signing bonus, he decided to forego it all and be a Razorback. Since, Stovall has had a career of highs and lows—from leading the team to Omaha to battling through multiple injuries, he's been through it all. But, the adversity has never once made him regret his decision to become a Hog. Peyton St...

May 20, 202431 minEp. 249

248. John Tyson: Luring Cal to Arkansas & Beyond

Bo Mattingly sits down with the chairman of Tyson Foods, John Tyson, to discuss his role in bringing John Calipari to Arkansas, the landscape of NIL, and why he believes the Razorbacks have a chance to compete at the highest level in college sports. -------- The full video version of this episode, including behind-the-scenes stories and insights, is available exclusively on HogsPlus.com Follow us on social media! Twitter Facebook Instagram The Hog Pod with Bo Mattingly is brought to you by Sarac...

May 13, 202450 min

247. Maria José Marin: Swinging for New Heights

Maria José Marin has exploded onto the collegiate golf scene during her freshman season at Arkansas—from setting a 54-hole record during her debut outing, to being ranked the No. 1 women's college golfer in the country. The 17-year-old Columbia native is somewhat of a golf prodigy. She picked up her first golf club at the age of 3 and was competing internationally by the time she was 8. The young golf star has been all over the world playing the sport and has earned prestigious invitations to th...

May 06, 202432 minEp. 247

246. Bri Ellis: Bri Bombin'

Bri Ellis is a home run machine for the Razorback softball team. But, the Auburn transfer and former SEC Freshman of the Year had quite the journey to Arkansas. Growing up as a young girl in Texas, she dreamed of playing softball for Texas A&M, but sometimes dreams don't play out the way we intend. This episode takes Hog fans through Bri's journey from a girl who thought she'd never play softball again to becoming one of the premiere home run hitters in the SEC. -------- The full video versi...

Apr 29, 202440 min

245. Hunter Yurachek: Landing Cal

Arkansas Razorback basketball has a new man in charge, John Calipari. But, behind every coaching hire, there is the Athletic Director who brought it home. Hunter Yurachek sat down with us to take hog fans through the entire process—from Muss’ departure, and initial meetings with Calipari, to introducing the Hall of Famer as Arkansas’ new head coach. This episode takes you through the entire journey of how Yurachek landed Cal. -------- The full video version of this episode including behind-the-s...

Apr 22, 202440 min
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