The Underdog Podcast

We believe everyone has an underdog story and we want to share them. From professional athletes to self-starters, we cover all the bases.

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Episodes

#08: Coach John Brannen – A Realistic & Humble Approach to Winning

You can spot this man from across the room. Yes, he is tall. But what you wouldn’t be able to observe from his stoic expression, is his humor. He is intelligent and he is passionate. After our conversation with him, it was evident that he joined the University of Cincinnati as head basketball coach because he was a good fit. He shares how a written (yes folks with paper) letter opened up a door in his colligate career after an abusive experience with a coach. His transfer from Morehead State Uni...

Nov 03, 2019•35 min•Ep. 8

#07: Tom Crabtree – From Undrafted to Super Bowl Champion

Have you ever played the lottery? Our guest, Tom Crabtree not only played the lottery, but won! Growing up he had his sights set on playing in the NFL. Crabtree played college football at Miami University before becoming an undrafted tight end with the Kansas City Chiefs. He didn’t meet instant success. Although he made it through training camp with the Chief’s they cut him because they didn’t believe he was ready to take the field game one. They then resigned him to the practice squad where he ...

Oct 27, 2019•54 min•Ep. 7

#06: Robby Malof – From College Dropout to World-Renowned Fighter

From a college dropout to an undefeated MMA fighter who owns and runs his own Jiu-Jitsu gym near downtown Cincinnati, 27-year-old Robby Malof is an MMA fighter, an ADCC Champion, a World-Class grappler with over 400 wins. His story of overcoming hardship with the death of his father and challenges throughout his childhood, allowed him to turn his passion as a successful Jiu-Jitsu fighter into raw success. Follow Robby on Social Media: Facebook: Robby "The Hebrewheartthrob" Malof Twitter: Robby M...

Oct 20, 2019•43 min•Ep. 6

#05: Tim Dorsey – "I Don’t Think You Will Make It to See Your Daughter Born"

Have you ever met someone who has had every card stacked against them but continues to smile? Let us introduce Tim Dorsey. He inspires people daily. Pushes people to be their best selves. He has changed more lives than even he realizes. So why is he an underdog? Two little humans called him dad, but he hit rock bottom after a divorce and an inability to provide Christmas for his children. He discusses the support of his family and the impact they had on him turning his life around. Life turns ar...

Oct 13, 2019•1 hr 7 min•Ep. 5

#04: Chad Hartvigson – From Parents Garage to Global Brand

Inspired by the hype at the Grand Prix, Chad Hartvigston owner of Vintage Brand set out on a journey that began in his parents’ garage. With the support of his entire family and several friends, Chad has grown his business of custom sportswear into the empire it is today. The year was 1982 and little did they know, but the Kirkland National Little League would make history, dethroning Twain after a run of wins since 1967. Chad was an outstanding athlete as a child, and it was his team who took t...

Oct 06, 2019•1 hr 16 min•Ep. 4

#03: Erica Lugo - 150+ Reasons to Live a Healthy Life

Fighting cancer? Overweight? Single mother? What’s stopping you from achieving your goals? Nationally recognized personal trainer & social media influencer, Erica Lugo once weighed more than 300 lbs. She changed her lifestyle resulting in a loss of more than 150lbs and has proven to be a role model for women of all ages. We would be remiss to not mention that Erica once worked for The Job Center (our sponsor). Kyle recalls his early memories with Erica and how her drive and spice was evident...

Sep 29, 2019•56 min•Ep. 3

#02: Neil Walker – An Underdog Before Birth

Second baseman for the Miami Marlins, Neil Walker shares the humbling, first-hand stories of his climb into the Major Leagues. Drafted by his hometown at only 18 years old, the Pittsburgh Pirates, he explains the pressure of growing up in the MLB while finding his own path and maintaining a long successful career (10 years). He tells us about how Roberto Clemente saved his life before he was born, how his eerie connection with Roberto followed him into his baseball career and why he is thankful ...

Sep 22, 2019•48 min•Ep. 2

#01: Getting to Know Kyle and Calvin

Our hosts, Kyle Decker & Calvin Blackmon sit down with their mentor and the successful podcast host of The Learning Leader, Ryan Hawk. Kyle and Calvin have a lot in common; football at Miami University, a passion for people & the number 8 – one moved 8 times growing up & the other lost his father the age of 8. Being an underdog isn’t easy, but together we can learn from each other & succeed. Tune in to hear how triumph & failure & a passion to do something great brought t...

Aug 29, 2019•46 min•Ep. 1

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