Character Combine Podcast artwork

Character Combine Podcast

130 episodes - English - Latest episode: almost 3 years ago - ★★★★★ - 27 ratings

Character Combine is a motivational movement offering tools to coaches & athletes to make increased character the priority on AND off the field.

Hosted by Josh Takimoto and Deb McCollum

Sports Health & Fitness character combine josh takimoto deb mccollum motivation jason harper sports athletes sacramento coaching
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Episodes

Episode 129- Sports Season Update and Podcast Announcement

May 13, 2021 13:00 - 50 minutes - 46.5 MB

In this episode, Josh and Deb talk about the adjusted high school sports season and how it's going. They also make an important announcement about the future of the Character Combine Podcast. If you want to skip ahead to that part, it starts at 38:34.   FOLLOW US AT: Twitter: @sportscharacter Instagram: @charactercombine Facebook: Character Combine YouTube: Character Combine Media Vault

Episode 128- Levi Ferguson

April 29, 2021 13:00 - 56 minutes - 51.4 MB

Levi Ferguson aka The Passion Guy is a motivational speaker. He joins the podcast to share about where his life started, the ups and downs in his journey, and how he became a positive voice that speaks into the lives of young people. Levi has an amazing story that will definitely inspire. Don't miss this episode! FOLLOW US AT: Twitter: @sportscharacter Instagram: @charactercombine Facebook: Character Combine YouTube: Character Combine Media Vault

Episode 127- Cameron Dobbs

April 22, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 64.1 MB

Cameron Dobbs is a former University of Miami volleyball player, coach, and journalist. She joins the podcast to talk about her passion for volleyball, the injury that ended her athletic career, and how she handled the mental and emotional toll of that situation. She also explains the meaning of "play where your feet are" and how it affects every area of her life. Cameron's energy and enthusiasm is contagious! Don't miss this episode.    FOLLOW US AT: Twitter: @sportscharacter Instagram:...

Episode 126- Mary Ann Tolbert

April 15, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 56.2 MB

Mary Ann Tolbert is the girls tennis coach at Manteca high school. She joins the show to talk about her athletic and coaching background, her Chicago sports fandom, the importance of team traditions, her experience coaching her daughter a the high school level. She also talks about how meaningful it is to teach and coach in the same community she grew up in. This is a great episode that you don't want to miss!   FOLLOW US AT: Twitter: @sportscharacter Instagram: @charactercombine Facebo...

Episode 125- Danielle Martin

April 08, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 61.7 MB

Danielle Martin is an athlete, mom, and a mindset coach. She joins the show to talk about how she ended up on the UCLA softball team, why she decided to get into mindset coaching, and how she separates the coach from mom as she watches her kids compete. Danielle shares a little bit about her organizations, True Mindset and True Boundaries. She also dives into a Steve Irwin impression that you don't want to miss. This is an amazing episode, so make sure you check it out. FOLLOW US AT: Twitt...

Episode 124- Nifae Lealao

April 01, 2021 13:00 - 1 hour - 75.6 MB

Nifae Lealao is a former defensive lineman for Vanderbilt and the Director of Student Advancement for the Alliance for Compassion and Education Development. He joins the show to talk about his impressive athletic career and what it means to be a mentor for students who are in the same program that helped guide him as a young student. He also shares the story of how he surprisingly ended up at Vanderbilt. Nifae is doing some amazing work and his positivity is contagious. Don't miss this episo...

Episode 123- Adjusting with Guest Host Erin Wachter

March 25, 2021 13:00 - 58 minutes - 53.9 MB

Erin Wachter joins the podcast as a special guest host in this episode to talk about adjusting. Every coach, athlete, teacher, and parent has had to make adjustments during this difficult time. We talk about how people make adjustments when things are out of their control and how they can continue to move forward and get better. Erin shares some of her experiences and challenges during this pandemic as both an athlete and trainer. This is a great episode that you don't want to miss!   FOLL...

Episode 122- Appreciate the Moment

March 18, 2021 13:00 - 31 minutes - 29.2 MB

In this episode, Josh and Deb talk about sports finally starting up again and how this past year has been an unfortunate reminder to appreciate every play, every day, and every moment. We never know what tomorrow holds, so we have to make the most of every opportunity and appreciate the people around us.  FOLLOW US AT: Twitter: @sportscharacter Instagram: @charactercombine Facebook: Character Combine YouTube: Character Combine Media Vault

Episode 121- Casey Taylor

March 11, 2021 14:00 - 52 minutes - 47.9 MB

Casey Taylor is the head football coach at Inderkum High School. He joins the podcast to talk about how he's dealt with the challenges of coaching and teaching during the pandemic. He also shares his thoughts on sports finally starting and what it will look like moving forward. We always enjoy chatting with Coach Taylor. Don't miss this episode!    FOLLOW US AT: Twitter: @sportscharacter Instagram: @charactercombine Facebook: Character Combine YouTube: Character Combine Media Vault

Episode 120- Kevin Bracy

March 04, 2021 14:00 - 22 minutes - 21 MB

Kevin Bracy is a motivational entertainer, author, and long time emcee of the Character Combine event. He joins the podcast to talk about his new podcast, The 21 and Under Podcast. He shares how it started, what it's all about, and why he's so passionate about it. His podcast is a must listen for all young people who are ready to pursue their greatness right now!   FOLLOW US AT: Twitter: @sportscharacter Instagram: @charactercombine Facebook: Character Combine YouTube: Character Combin...

Episode 119 - Taking Risks with Guest Host Lauren Nicole Johnson

February 25, 2021 14:00 - 1 hour - 62 MB

Lauren Nicole Johnson joins the podcast as a special guest host in this episode to talk about taking risks! We discuss her recent decision to move on from the Yankees organization, how your support system affects your mindset when stepping out of your comfort zone, and some of the obstacles that prevent us from taking risks. This also wouldn't be a true Character Combine Podcast without a few sidetrack conversations along the way. This was a really fun episode that you don't want to miss! F...

Episode 118- Justin Saucedo

February 18, 2021 14:00 - 1 hour - 60.5 MB

Justin Saucedo is a Casa Roble Jr Ram football coach and an advocated for the Let Them Play CA campaign. He joins the show to talk about his athletic background, why sports were so crucial to his life growing up, and the impact not playing sports is having on student athletes right now. He also shares some updates and information about the Let Them Play CA movement. Justin is incredibly passionate about coaching and making a positive impact. Don't miss this episode!    FOLLOW US AT: Twitt...

Episode 117- Sports Season Update

February 11, 2021 14:00 - 28 minutes - 26.4 MB

Josh and Deb talk about the current status of the high school sports season and the impact it's having on athletes, coaches, and families.   FOLLOW US AT: Twitter: @sportscharacter Instagram: @charactercombine Facebook: Character Combine YouTube: Character Combine Media Vault  

Episode 116- Dana Smith

February 04, 2021 14:00 - 1 hour - 55 MB

Dana Smith is a teacher, Positive Coaching Alliance Trainer, and the wrestling coach at Carnegie Middle School. He joins the show to talk about his experience distance teaching, how he's staying connected to his athletes, and how different things may look like when schools open back up. Coach Smith always has a great perspective on how to positively impact the lives of student athletes, so don't miss it! FOLLOW US AT: Twitter: @sportscharacter Instagram: @charactercombine Facebook: Chara...

Episode 115- Cody Allen

January 28, 2021 14:00 - 1 hour - 59.3 MB

Cody Allen is a former linebacker for Sacramento State and the owner of Digital Cartel Media. He joins the show to talk about his athletic journey, challenges he overcame, and how his athletic mindset affects his business mindset. He also shares his thoughts on the importance of mental health. Don't miss this episode! FOLLOW US AT: Twitter: @sportscharacter Instagram: @charactercombine Facebook: Character Combine YouTube: Character Combine Media Vault

Episode 114- Jessica Scott

January 21, 2021 14:00 - 1 hour - 72.4 MB

Jessica Scott is a D1 softball player and coach. She joins the podcast to talk about when she discovered her love of softball, losing her senior year due to the pandemic, and how she's dealt with the disappointment and frustration. She also shares her story of being a Type 1 diabetic athlete and how she has risen above it. Jessica is an incredible example of determination and heart. You don't want to miss this episode!   FOLLOW US AT: Twitter: @sportscharacter Instagram: @charactercombin...

Episode 113- 2020 Bracket Madness

January 10, 2021 00:48 - 41 minutes - 37.8 MB

In this episode, Josh and Deb recap the 2020 Guest of the Year Bracket. They talk about how competitive it got, a wild overtime finish, and the connections that were made through it. Daniel Thomas, also makes an appearance to talk briefly about winning the title of 2020 Guest of the Year. We're looking forward to more great episodes this year and can't wait for the 2021 Guest of the Year battle!

Episode 112- Max Griffin

January 06, 2021 05:00 - 1 hour - 55.1 MB

Max "Pain" Griffin is a UFC Welterweight. He joins the show to talk about his journey as a fighter, training during the pandemic, and his mentality as an athlete. He also walks us through his last fight and what was going through his mind when he sliced his opponents ear off. This is a great episode that you don't want to miss.

Episode 111- PJ Petersen and Ryane Hughes

December 08, 2020 05:40 - 1 hour - 74.4 MB

PJ Petersen and Ryane Hughes join the show to a talk about all things Christmas. They also share some thoughts on the importance of community and how to stay involved during the pandemic. They are hosting a toy drive for the Sutter Child Life Program this holiday season. If you're interested in donating a toy, you can hear all of the details at the 58:25 mark of this episode. This is a fun holiday episode that has nothing to do with sports, but hopefully brings a little joy to your earbuds....

Episode 110- Eden Gold

December 02, 2020 05:00 - 1 hour - 59.5 MB

Eden Gold is a former volleyball player, speaker, and mental health advocate. She joins the show to talk about her athletic and coaching background, as well as her battle with an eating disorder at a young age. She has a very interesting story that you don't want to miss. Check it out!

Episode 109- Gratitude

November 19, 2020 05:00 - 1 hour - 59.6 MB

In this episode, Josh and Deb discuss the importance of gratitude and how it impacts our lives. They also talk about Thanksgiving traditions and some of their favorite foods. Enjoy this episode and have a great Thanksgiving!

Episode 108- Chrystal Rose

November 17, 2020 05:00 - 1 hour - 62.9 MB

Chrystal Rose is the host of the Self-Love Breakfast Club Podcast and the owner of Rebellia. She joins the podcast to talk about her fitness journey, why she started the Rebellia clothing brand, and the importance of emotional health. She also shares a wild story about how she was sent to a boarding school that was anything but normal. Chrystal is an incredible person with a passion for seeing people get healthy inside and out. Don't miss this episode!

Episode 107- Lauren Nicole Johnson

November 11, 2020 05:00 - 1 hour - 70 MB

Lauren Nicole Johnson is the Mental Conditioning Coordinator for the New York Yankees. She returns to the show to share more insight about the mental side of competition, coaching, and life. We also take a few detours down some sidetracks to talk about what she's been up to during the pandemic. We always enjoy the opportunity to chat with Lauren and we hope you enjoy it too!

Episode 106- Blake Kidwell

November 04, 2020 05:00 - 1 hour - 81.6 MB

Blake Kidwell is the owner of Title Boxing Club Sacramento. He joins the show to share his incredible story of homelessness, overcoming addiction, and resiliency. This rollercoaster of a journey will provide hope and inspiration to all athletes and coaches. You do not want to miss this episode!

Episode 105- Zeb Becker

October 28, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 64.4 MB

Zeb Becker is the Davis High School golf coach and the owner of Rally Factory. He joins the show to talk about his athletic background, how he got into coaching golf, and the mental aspects of being a golfer. He also shares his experience as a business owner and how he's stayed resilient during the pandemic. He covered a lot in this episode, so don't miss out!

Episode 104- Civility

October 21, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 61.2 MB

We talk about how sports fandom and differences of opinion can cause people to lose all sense of civility. Why are people sending death threats over a missed shot? How does social media enhance the issue? How can we engage in more productive conversations? There's still plenty of sidetracks and nonsense as well. Check it out!

Episode 103- Bobby Withrow-Clark

October 14, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 65.9 MB

Bobby Withrow-Clark is the Department Chair for the Center for Academic Success at Butte College. He joins the podcast to discuss his coaching background, the importance of mentorship, and the challenges that some athletes face in the classroom. He also shares his story of losing his home during the Paradise Camp Fire a couple years and how he remained resilient during the chaos. Don't miss this episode!

Episode 102- Ed Tupper

October 07, 2020 05:00 - 1 hour - 65.6 MB

Ed Tupper is the head baseball coach at Casa Roble High School. He joins the show to talk about his coaching background, how his approach to coaching has changed over the years, and how he's dealing with the challenges of the pandemic. He also shares about how he started using the Wooden Pyramid of Success to recognize his athletes throughout the season. This is a great episode that you don't want to miss.

Episode 101- Bench Chatter with Jordan Takimoto

September 30, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 67.3 MB

Jordan Takimoto joins the show for another Bench Chatter episode. We talk about fantasy football and the different teammate personality types you might encounter when playing adult rec sports. It's a fun episode that you don't want to miss.

Episode 100

September 23, 2020 05:00 - 1 hour - 85.2 MB

We celebrate our 100th podcast in this episode! Josh and Deb ask each other a few interview questions, as well as answer some questions we received from all of you! We also released a video version of the podcast for the first time. The video version includes some bloopers from the last 100 episodes. If you're interested in checking that out, head over to our YouTube page. Thank you to everyone who has supported and shown love to the show over the last year and a half. We truly appreciate it!...

Episode 99- Anthony Valenzuela and Gabriel Russo

September 17, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 64.2 MB

Anthony Valenzuela and Gabriel Russo are the hosts of The Mindset Podcast. They join the show to talk about their athletic background, how sports has helped their business mindset, and why they started podcasting. They also share their thoughts on the coach that had the greatest impact on their life. These guys are doing some amazing things! We actually had the opportunity to be guests on their podcast as well, so make sure you check out their show and give it a listen

Episode 98- Joe Davidson

September 09, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 64.3 MB

Joe Davidson is a senior staff writer for the Sacramento Bee. He joins the show to discuss how the pandemic has affected this school year, sports season, and how student-athletes and coaches are dealing with the social and emotional challenges so far. We also talk about how he deals with all of the nonsense that comes his way on social media. We always have a great time talking to Joe and we hope you enjoy this episode!

Episode 97- Back To School

September 02, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 62.3 MB

Josh and Deb talk about the start of this school year in this episode. Deb shares about her experience so far with distance learning and the challenges that come with it. She also talks about how she has learned to connect with her students despite the current situation. We also talk about a ton of other random things and get sidetracked a lot in this one.

Episode 96- Kira McKechnie

August 26, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 58 MB

Kira McKechnie is a former collegiate softball player and the head softball coach at Christian Brother's High School. She joins the podcast to talk about her athletic background, her experience transferring while playing college softball, and advice for young athletes who want to play in college. She also shares her thoughts on the challenges of starting her coaching career during the pandemic. Kira is incredibly passionate about softball, coaching, and impacting the lives of young people. Yo...

Episode 95- Troy and Zack Spivey

August 19, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 65.9 MB

Troy and Zack Spivey are the hosts of the Spivey Special Podcast. They join the show to answer some questions we received on social media, as well as talk about food, sports, and more food. These guys are hilarious and a lot of fun to chat with. Don't miss this episode!

Episode 94- Bench Chatter with Jordan Takimoto

August 14, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 80.5 MB

We're back with another Bench Chatter episode. We start by discussing 3 random sports related topics and finish up with a top 5 list for a specific theme. Jordan Takimoto makes his return as the guest cohost in this episode. If you're looking for some fun nonsense to break up your day, this episode is for you. 1. How is the MLB season going so far? 2. Pick your career? 3. If you could switch bodies with one professional athlete for a game/match? Top 5 List: Elementary School Playground Games

Episode 93- Chris Horner

August 11, 2020 04:00 - 58 minutes - 53.6 MB

Chris Horner is a teacher and the head coach of the varsity football team at Casa Roble High School. He joins the podcast to talk about the modified high school sports season, maintaining connection with his athletes, and how he plans on approaching the upcoming school year. We also talk about the crazy amount of fireworks his team sold at their booth for the 4th of July. We always have a great time catching up with Coach Horner. Enjoy this episode.

Episode 92- Kurt Hines

August 06, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 69.7 MB

Kurt Hines is the head football coach at Coronado High School. He joins the podcast to talk about his athletic/coaching background, how he builds connections with his athletes, and how people can stay positive during this pandemic. He also talks about his favorite book, Inside Out Coaching. It was written by Joe Ehrmann, who was the main inspiration behind the Character Combine. Coach Hines is an incredibly positive and motivational human being. You don't want to miss this episode!

Episode 91- Rick Stassi

August 04, 2020 04:00 - 57 minutes - 53 MB

Rick Stassi is a strength and conditioning coach with a tremendous amount of experience training and developing athletes. He joins the podcast to talk about his athletic background, his unique training philosophy, and his experience working with athletes who have reached the college and professional level. It's safe to say that you will feel Rick's passion and energy come through on this episode.

Episode 90- Modified 20/21 Sports Season

July 29, 2020 04:06 - 47 minutes - 43 MB

Josh and Deb talk about the recent CIF statement regarding the 20/21 high school sports season. How can coaches and athletes stay focused and motivated? How does this impact multi-sport athletes? We don't pretend to have the answers, but we want to do our best to encourage coaches and athletes who are affected by this announcement.

Episode 89- Cody Norman

July 22, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 59.2 MB

Cody Norman is the head varsity girls basketball team at Laguna Creek High School. He joins the podcast to discuss how he stays positive during tough seasons, the success his team achieved last season, and how he balances family and coaching. We also talk a little bit about his love for Chicago sports teams and The Last Dance documentary. Coach Norman has been a huge supporter of the Combine for a long time and we definitely appreciated him stopping by the show. Enjoy this episode!

Episode 88- Michelle Raby

July 17, 2020 05:37 - 1 hour - 80.4 MB

Michelle Raby is a speaker and the author of To Be Known. She joins the podcast to share her life story, which is full of pain, struggle, inspiration, and hope. Her story will definitely motivate and inspire you to live a more compassionate life. Michelle also talks about the importance of being aware of others as a coach and athlete. This episode also has a decent amount of laughter and nonsense. Enjoy this episode!

Episode 87- Bench Chatter w/ Jordan Takimoto

July 14, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 91.7 MB

We're trying new format called Bench Chatter. We start by discussing 3 random sports related topics, then we share a top 5 list for a specific theme. Sports are supposed to be fun, so we thought we would mix it up with some fun topics. Jordan Takimoto is the guest co-host in this episode. We talk about Patrick Mahomes' new contract, the Houston Astros, and some of our funny sports memories. We also discuss our top 5 favorite postgame team snacks.

Episode 86- Lain Lee

July 10, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 60.4 MB

Coach Lain Lee is a performance coach, author, and host of the Fear Less U Podcast. He shares a lot of insight about how fear and confidence can affect athletic performance in both a positive and negative way. Coach Lain drops a lot of knowledge in this one, so grab your pen and get ready to take some notes.

Episode 85- Chace Bryson

July 08, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 62.2 MB

Chace Bryson is the Editor for Sportstars Magazine. He joins the podcast to talk about his athletic and journalism background, how he got started at Sportstars, and some of his favorite stories over the years. He also shares a funny story about a recent bracket style contest they recently did for the 10 year anniversary of Sportstars Magazine. Make sure you check out this episode!

Episode 84- Ethan Belloli-Ramos

July 04, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 62.2 MB

Ethan Belloli-Ramos is a former athlete, throws coach and an entrepreneur. He joins the podcast to talk about his athletic background and how he overcame a major injury. He shares the challenges he faced during his injury rehab and how it has affected his outlook on business and life. It's a great episode that you don't want to miss.

Episode 83- Victor Rodriguez

July 01, 2020 04:00 - 56 minutes - 51.7 MB

Victor Rodriguez is a former athlete, baseball coach, and sports fanatic. He joins the show to talk about how he connects with student-athletes, the impact of COVID-19 on the upcoming school sports season, the Astros cheating scandal, and much more. He also shares the heartbreaking story behind the Crystal Rodriguez Memorial Fund Scholarship and how he uses it to inspire students. He is an incredible coach and even better human being. Don't miss this one!

Episode 82- Quarantine Rabbit Trail

June 27, 2020 00:07 - 1 hour - 63.8 MB

This episode is full of sidetracks, rabbit trails, and random questions. We talk about the quarantine, sports, and life. This was recorded in April, so some things may be outdated.

Episode 81- Deb Lee

June 24, 2020 04:00 - 56 minutes - 52.1 MB

Deb Lee is the girls JV basketball coach at Sheldon High School. She joins the show to talk about moving from the Philippines, how sports helped her connect with people, and the importance of creating a sense of family within a team. She also shares her passion for Disneyland. This is a fun episode that you don't want to miss.

Episode 80- Brittany Wagner

June 17, 2020 04:00 - 1 hour - 70 MB

Brittany Wagner is a motivational speaker, founder of Ten Thousand Pencils, and the Athletic Academic Counselor in season 1 and 2 of the hit Netflix show Last Chance U. She joins the podcast to talk about how she found her passion for athletic counseling and how she balanced working with the athletes while being surrounded by a camera crew. She also shares her thoughts on racism and how it has affects the school system and communities. She is an amazing person who is passionate about seeing s...