The latest episode of the Talkin’ G-MAC podcast, hosted by Katie Gilhooly, features Rachel McCool from Ashland University, who serves as the Great Midwest’s National SAAC Representative and the Division II National SAAC External Communications Coordinator. In this episode, McCool discusses the importance of student-athlete voices in decision-making and how meaningful representation can drive impactful change across college athletics.
The conversation centers on a recent NCAA Division II football date survey, where two student-athlete representatives played a key role in shaping the final decision. McCool shares how the overwhelming majority of student-athletes expressed a desire to keep the original football date, and how their collective feedback—presented with confidence and clarity—ultimately influenced the committee’s decision.
McCool also reflects on the challenges student-athletes often face when voicing opinions in administrative settings and emphasizes how advocacy, communication, and unity can help shift narratives within sports governance. The experience, she explains, serves as a reminder that young athletes’ perspectives matter and that effective representation can lead to meaningful change.
Episode 305 offers an inspiring look at leadership, advocacy, and the growing influence of student-athlete voices within collegiate athletics.
Tune in to Episode 305 of the Talkin’ G-MAC Podcast — available now on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and all major streaming platforms.
The latest episode of the Talkin’ G-MAC podcast, hosted by Katie Gilhooly, features two standout student-athletes fresh off their teams’ Great Midwest Cross Country Championship victories — Aubrey Hayes from Cedarville University and Kyle Woods from Walsh University. Both runners share their reflections on championship weekend, team culture, and the competitive drive that has propelled their programs to the top of the conference.
Hayes discusses the importance of setting high goals and maintaining a competitive spirit, emphasizing that even when teams aim high and fall short, the pursuit itself leads to growth and confidence. She highlights Cedarville’s team mentality, awareness of their toughest competition, and the mindset needed to keep improving as they head into the regional meet.
Woods reflects on Walsh’s return to championship form, noting that the feeling of winning a G-MAC title is unmatched. He credits the team’s “pack running” strategy, trust in training, and strong leader
The latest installment of the Talkin’ G-MAC podcast, hosted by Katie Gilhooly, features Makenna Belcher from the University of Findlay volleyball team. Belcher offers insight into the Oilers’ recent performance at the Midwest Region Volleyball Crossover, highlighting the team’s strong sense of camaraderie and focus on offensive execution.
Throughout the conversation, Belcher discusses the group’s “team-first” mentality, their growth throughout the season, and how preparation and trust have fueled Findlay’s success heading into the final stretch of conference play. She also reflects on the program’s goals as they look ahead to the upcoming Great Midwest Championship.
Listeners will enjoy an inside look at the Oilers’ approach to teamwork, motivation, and what drives their pursuit of excellence this season.
In Episode 302 of Talkin' G-MAC, Walsh University senior Claire Rethman shares her perspective on the current cross country season and her journey as a student-athlete.
She discusses the importance of teamwork, trust, and gratitude, reflecting on how the support of her teammates has shaped her experience. Rethman also touches on the mental side of racing, emphasizing confidence, preparation, and enjoying the process. As she looks ahead to the championship season, her insights capture the true spirit of cross country—where individual effort and team unity go hand in hand.
In this episode of Talkin’ G-MAC, we sit down with Cedarville University men’s soccer head coach Brett Faro to talk about the foundation behind one of the league’s most consistent programs. Coach Faro shares insights on developing a championship culture, the balance between faith and competition, and how leadership and accountability have shaped the Yellow Jackets’ success on and off the field. We also dive into this season’s key storylines, standout performances, and what it takes to sustain excellence year after year in the Great Midwest.
The Talkin' G-MAC Podcast continues its 2025 Tailgate Tour with University of Findlay head football coach Kory Allen, who joins host Katie Gilhooly to reflect on last season and preview the year ahead.
Coach Allen discusses the excitement of students returning to campus, the impact of Champions Field on team preparation, and the opportunities created by roster changes. He emphasizes the role of veteran leadership, the offensive line’s importance, and the team’s commitment to service, including their work with the Miracle League. The conversation also highlights the culture of camaraderie and the challenges of a competitive schedule.
The Talking G-MAC Podcast continues its 2025 Tailgate Tour with Ohio Dominican University head football coach Kelly Cummings, who joins host Katie Gilhooly to discuss the Panthers’ preparations for the upcoming season.
Coach Cummings reflects on the excitement of returning to campus, the unique football culture in Columbus, and the challenges of coaching a young roster. He emphasizes the importance of leadership development, the role of experienced players, and his perspective from a decade-long tenure leading the program. The conversation also touches on the changing landscape of college football and the value of enjoying the process with his team.
The Talkin' G-MAC Podcast continues its 2025 Tailgate Tour with Ashland University head football coach Doug Geiser, who joins host Katie Gilhooly to preview the Eagles’ upcoming season.
Coach Geiser discusses the importance of continuity within the coaching staff, the value of player development, and the challenges of managing expectations with preseason rankings. He also highlights the benefits of playoff experience, the strength of the offensive line, and the healthy competition at quarterback. Community engagement and a commitment to elevating the G-MAC on the national stage remain central themes of the conversation.
The Talkin' G-MAC Podcast continues its 2025 Tailgate Tour with Tiffin University head football coach Brett Ekkens, who joins host Katie Gilhooly to reflect on last season and preview the Dragons’ path forward.
Coach Ekkens discusses the lessons learned from last year, the excitement of fall camp, and the importance of culture, leadership, and alumni involvement in shaping the program. He highlights key returning players, the evolving offense, and the role of special teams as the Dragons prepare for the upcoming season. The conversation also emphasizes the brotherhood that defines Tiffin football.
The Talkin' G-MAC Podcast continues its 2025 Tailgate Tour with Northwood University head football coach Dustin Beurer, who joins host Katie Gilhooly to discuss the Timberwolves’ development as they enter year three under his leadership.
Coach Beurer reflects on lessons from past seasons, the increasing expectations for the program, and the importance of player development and leadership. He highlights the competitive quarterback battle, offensive and defensive strategies, and the significance of community engagement in Midland. The conversation also touches on building a strong team culture and the preparations for the upcoming season.
The Talkin' G-MAC Podcast continues its 2025 Tailgate Tour with Hillsdale College head football coach Nate Shreffler, who joins host Katie Gilhooly to reflect on last season and preview the year ahead.
Coach Shreffler shares the excitement of having players back on campus, the progress made in his second season leading the program, and the importance of leadership development. The discussion also covers the impact of key returners, the role of an experienced offensive line, and the significance of rivalries—especially against Northwood. Community engagement and team bonding round out a culture focused on long-term success.
The Talkin' G-MAC Podcast continues its 2025 Tailgate Tour with Lake Erie College head football coach David Price, who joins host Katie Gilhooly to preview the Storm’s upcoming season.
Coach Price discusses the busy pace of fall camp, the importance of consistency from year one to year two, and the role of returners in integrating new players into the program. He also highlights the excitement of opening the season against defending national champion Ferris State, while reflecting on rivalries, team culture, and the foundation being built for long-term success.
The Talkin' G-MAC Podcast continues the 2025 Tailgate Tour with Kentucky Wesleyan College head football coach Tyrone Young, who joins host Katie Gilhooly to reflect on building the Panthers’ program and previewing the season ahead.
Coach Young shares his journey over the past three years, highlighting the importance of team culture, spiritual growth, and community engagement as cornerstones of the program. The conversation also touches on leadership from returning players, the challenges of tough non-conference games, and the significance of rivalries in Kentucky football.
The newest episode of the Talkin' G-MAC features Thomas More University head football coach Chris Norwell joining host Katie Gilhooly to discuss the Saints’ transition into NCAA Division II and their upcoming 2025 season in the G-MAC.
This episode marks the second stop on the Talkin’ G-MAC: Tailgate Tour, highlighting programs across the conference as they prepare for the 2025 football season.
The conversation covers the impact of coaching changes, the importance of team chemistry, and how returning players are providing stability and leadership. Coach Norwell also touches on the challenges of non-conference matchups against FCS opponents and the team’s mindset as they prepare for a competitive schedule.
The first stop on the Talkin' G-MAC: Tailgate Tour features Walsh University head football coach John Fankhauser, who joins host Katie Gilhooly to preview the upcoming season.
The conversation highlights the excitement of fall camp, the importance of building on last year’s successes, and the leadership roles shaping team dynamics. Fankhauser also discusses replacing key players, the intensity of the quarterback competition, and how early season matchups provide valuable growth opportunities. Rivalries, camaraderie, and community support remain central to the Cavaliers’ culture.
On this week’s episode of Talkin’ G-MAC, host Katie Gilhooly celebrates a big week on the greens with championship coverage of G-MAC golf. Katie is joined by the men’s and women’s golf coaches from the University of Findlay and Ohio Dominican University, fresh off their teams' victories at the 2025 G-MAC Championship.
Findlay Women’s Golf continued their dominance with another strong postseason showing, and head coach Dominic Guarnieri shares how the team’s chemistry, leadership, and consistency were key to bringing home the title.
On the men’s side, Ohio Dominican clinched their own championship moment. Head Coach Chris Deibel talks about the team's steady improvement all season and how their mindset shifted at the right time to capture the crown.
Katie also looks ahead with both coaches to the upcoming NCAA Regionals, discussing preparation strategies, travel plans, and what it will take for their teams to make a deep postseason run.
Whether you're a G-MAC golf fan or just love a good underdog story, this episode dives into the highs, the challenges, and the focus it takes to win at the highest level of DII competition.
In Episode 215 of Talkin' G-MAC, we’re joined by Celia Kiogima, the head coach of Davenport STUNT, to discuss an incredible achievement—the Panthers' first-ever G-MAC conference title in STUNT. Celia takes us through the exciting journey as Davenport captured both the regular season and tournament championships, marking a historic moment for the program. We’ll also dive into what’s next for the No. 2 Panthers as they await their National Championship seeding announcement on April 10th. Tune in for insights into the team’s success, Coach Kiogima’s leadership, and what the future holds for this powerhouse program.
On this exciting episode of the Talkin' G-MAC Podcast, host Katie Gilhooly sits down with members of both the G-MAC men's and women's basketball tournament championship teams ahead of their NCAA postseason berths.
First, Simon Blair from Malone men's basketball joins to discuss their unexpected Cinderella run through the G-MAC tournament and how they’re preparing to embrace their underdog status as they head into the postseason.
Then, Morgan Yoder of Ashland women's basketball shares insight into the storied history of the Eagles program and reflects on how the adversity faced this season has shaped them into a team ready for this pivotal moment. Tune in for a behind-the-scenes look at two teams with their sights set on NCAA glory!
In Episode 213 of Talkin' G-MAC, host Katie Gilhooly sits down with Katie Susi to discuss the exciting highlights of the G-MAC/MEC Swimming Championships. They dive into Findlay's impressive three-peat win, Katie’s third trip to nationals, and the journey leading up to her final meet. As they reflect on their experiences, they also discuss the expectations for both Katie and her team as they prepare for their last swim together. Don't miss this insightful conversation about competition, camaraderie, and the end of an era in college swimming.
This week on Talkin' G-MAC, we’re joined by Colt Sponseller, the head coach of the Ashland Eagles wrestling team. Under his leadership, the Eagles have dominated the mat, securing four championships in the last five years. Ranked 21st in the country, Ashland’s wrestling program is firing on all cylinders, with six wrestlers nationally ranked in their weight classes.
Coach Sponseller takes us behind the scenes of this powerhouse team as they gear up to qualify for the national tournament in mid-March. Don’t miss out on this insider conversation about team dynamics, championship aspirations, and the road to nationals.
Tune in to Episode 212, and get the inside scoop on Ashland wrestling!