Badger Connect Podcast

Wisconsin Football specialists take center stage on Episode 27 of the Badger Connect Podcast! Gavin Lahm and Sean West join Mike Heller to talk about their journeys to Wisconsin, life as specialists for the Badgers, and the work that goes into a part of the game that often only gets noticed when the pressure is on. Gavin and Sean share stories from inside the Wisconsin program, break down the unique relationship between a long snapper and specialist unit, and give fans a look at what goes into preparing for game day. They also talk about their paths to Madison, competing at the Big Ten level, and plenty more from behind the scenes of Wisconsin Football. Episode 27 of the Badger Connect Podcast — featuring Gavin Lahm and Sean West. Subscribe to Badger Connect for more conversations with Wisconsin athletes, coaches and Badger legends. #WisconsinFootball #Badgers #OnWisconsin #BadgerConnect #CollegeFootball Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

Wisconsin Football is a family affair on Episode 26 of the Badger Connect Podcast! Badgers linebacker Cooper Catalano is joined by his dad, Jim Catalano, for a special conversation with Mike Heller about Cooper’s football journey and the family behind it. Cooper talks about growing up around the game, his path to Wisconsin and what it means to play for the Badgers. Jim shares his perspective as a father, from watching Cooper develop as a young athlete to now seeing him take the field at Camp Randall. The father-son duo also shares stories from Cooper’s journey, the role family has played along the way and what it’s like experiencing Big Ten football together. Episode 26 of the Badger Connect Podcast — featuring Cooper and Jim Catalano. Subscribe to Badger Connect for more conversations with Wisconsin athletes, coaches and Badger legends. #WisconsinFootball #Badgers #OnWisconsin #BadgerConnect #CollegeFootball Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

Two Wisconsin Volleyball legends join the Badger Connect Podcast! Lauren Carlini and Sydney Hilley sit down with Mike Heller to talk about their journeys at Wisconsin, the growth of the Badger Volleyball program and the experiences that helped shape their careers on and off the court. The two former Badger All-Americans look back on their time in Madison, share stories from inside the program and discuss what it means to remain connected to Wisconsin Volleyball after their playing days at the Field House. It’s a conversation with two of the most accomplished players in program history and two athletes who helped build Wisconsin Volleyball into what it is today. Episode 25 of the Badger Connect Podcast — featuring Lauren Carlini and Sydney Hilley. Subscribe to Badger Connect for more conversations with Wisconsin athletes, coaches and Badger legends. #WisconsinVolleyball #Badgers #OnWisconsin #BadgerConnect #NCAAVolleyball Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

On Episode 24 of the Badger Connect Podcast , Mike Heller sits down with Wisconsin men’s hockey forward Oliver Tulk to discuss his path from Canada to Madison, adapting to college hockey, and what it means to wear the Motion W. Oliver shares stories from his hockey journey, life with his teammates, and the experiences that have shaped him both on and off the ice. Whether you’re a Badger hockey fan or just enjoy hearing the personal stories behind Wisconsin athletics, this episode is one you won’t want to miss. 🎧 Watch the full episode here on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe for new Badger Connect Podcast episodes every week featuring Wisconsin student-athletes, coaches, staff, and Badger legends. Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

What does it take to build a championship culture behind the scenes? On Episode 23 of the Badger Connect Podcast , Mike Heller is joined by Kristen Simon for a conversation about the work that often goes unnoticed but plays a major role in Wisconsin Athletics. From her path to Madison to the relationships she’s built with student-athletes, Kristen shares what drives her every day and why she’s passionate about helping Badgers succeed. Whether you’re a longtime Wisconsin fan or just enjoy hearing the stories behind the program, this episode offers a unique perspective you won’t hear very often. 🎧 Watch the full episode here on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts. Subscribe for new Badger Connect Podcast episodes every week featuring Wisconsin student-athletes, coaches, staff, and Badger legends. Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

On Episode 22 of the Badger Connect Podcast , Mike Heller sits down with Wisconsin football teammates Matt Jung and Chris Brooks Jr. for a conversation that’s equal parts football and personality. From how their friendship developed to life inside the Badgers program, the two share stories, jokes, and a few moments fans probably haven’t heard before. If you’re looking for a laid-back conversation that gives you a better feel for the people behind the helmets, this is an episode you won’t want to miss. 🎧 Listen wherever you get your podcasts or watch the full episode here on YouTube. Subscribe for new episodes every week featuring Wisconsin student-athletes, coaches, and Badger legends. Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

Wisconsin men’s hockey teammates Finn Brink and Grady Deering join Mike Heller on Episode 21 of the Badger Connect Podcast! The two Badgers discuss their paths to Madison, the culture inside the Wisconsin hockey program, what it’s like playing for Coach Hastings, and their goals for the upcoming season. They also share stories from the locker room, their friendship as teammates, and what Badger fans can expect on the ice this year. If you’re a Wisconsin hockey fan, you won’t want to miss this conversation. Subscribe for more exclusive interviews with Wisconsin student-athletes, coaches, and alumni. 🔴 Become a Badger Connect member for exclusive content, giveaways, and behind-the-scenes access: https://badgerconnect.com #BadgerConnect #OnWisconsin #Badgers #WisconsinHockey #CollegeHockey #NCAAHockey #MikeHeller #FinnBrink #GradyDeering Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

Episode 20 of the Badger Connect Podcast features Wisconsin Director of Athletics Shawn Eichorst. Eichorst joins Mike Heller to discuss his return to Wisconsin, the experiences that prepared him to lead the athletic department, and his vision for the future of Badger Athletics. A Wisconsin native and former member of the UW Athletics administration, Eichorst returns to Madison after leadership roles at Miami, Nebraska and Texas. The conversation also explores the rapidly changing landscape of college sports and what it will take for Wisconsin to succeed moving forward. Watch the full episode and subscribe to the Badger Connect Podcast for more conversations from across Wisconsin Athletics. #onwisconsin #badgers #mikeheller #wisconsinfootball #wisconsinbadgers #badgerconnect #badgerfootball Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

Episode 19 | Abu Sama III Wisconsin’s newest running back, Abu Sama III , joins Mike Heller on Episode 19 of the Badger Connect Podcast. The explosive Iowa State transfer discusses why he chose Wisconsin, what drew him to Madison, his fit in Jeff Grimes’ offense, and what Badger fans can expect from him this season. Sama also reflects on his college journey, including his breakout performances at Iowa State, and shares his goals as he begins the next chapter of his career in the Cardinal and White. Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

Episode 18 of the Badger Connect Podcast with Mike Heller features Wisconsin men’s basketball players Hayden Jones and Jackson Ball. Two of the newest members of the Badger basketball program join Mike Heller to discuss their journeys to Madison, adjusting to life as Division I student-athletes, and what excites them most about the future of Wisconsin Basketball. In this conversation, Hayden and Jackson share stories about: 🏀 Their recruiting experiences and why they chose Wisconsin 🏀 The transition to college basketball 🏀 Building relationships with teammates and coaches 🏀 Life off the court and adjusting to Madison 🏀 Their goals for the upcoming season and beyond 🏀 What Badger fans can expect from them in the future Get to know two of the young faces of the Wisconsin program in a fun and candid conversation that offers an inside look at the next generation of Badger Basketball. Watch now and subscribe to the Badger Connect Podcast for more exclusive conversations with current and former Badgers. #BadgerConnect #WisconsinBasketball #BadgerMBB #OnWisconsin #MikeHeller #WisconsinBadgers #CollegeBasketball #Podcast #HaydenJones #JacksonBall Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

Episode 17 of the Badger Connect Podcast with Mike Heller features Wisconsin hockey legend Ron Vincent. Recently named to the University of Wisconsin Athletic Hall of Fame Class of 2026, Vincent looks back on his remarkable Badger career, including winning the 1981 NCAA National Championship, playing for legendary coach Bob Johnson, and the lifelong friendships formed during one of the greatest eras in Wisconsin hockey history. Vincent also shares what Wisconsin means to him and reflects on the honor of being recognized among the all-time greats in Badger Athletics. Watch now and hear from one of the true legends of Wisconsin Hockey. #BadgerConnect #BadgerHockey #WisconsinBadgers #RonVincent #MikeHeller #OnWisconsin Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

Wisconsin Track & Field and Cross Country has a new leader, and it’s a familiar name for Badger fans. On Episode 16 of the Badger Connect Podcast, Mike Heller sits down with Chris Solinsky, the newly appointed Director of Track & Field and Cross Country at Wisconsin. One of the most decorated student-athletes in Wisconsin history, Solinsky returns to Madison after successful coaching stops at Oregon, Florida, and William & Mary. A Badger Hall of Famer, five-time NCAA champion, former American record holder, and now the leader of Wisconsin’s track and cross country programs, Solinsky discusses his journey back home and his vision for the future of the program. (Wisconsin Badgers) In this episode, Chris shares: • What it means to return to Wisconsin as Director of Track & Field and Cross Country • His experiences coaching at Oregon, Florida, and William & Mary • The culture that makes Wisconsin track and cross country special • His vision for recruiting, development, and competing for championships • Memories from his legendary career as a Badger athlete • The future of Wisconsin Track & Field and Cross Country Whether you’re a longtime track and cross country fan or simply enjoy hearing from leaders across Wisconsin Athletics, this conversation provides a fascinating look at one of the most accomplished Badgers ever to wear the Motion W. 🎙️ Hosted by Mike Heller Subscribe to Badger Connect for exclusive interviews, premium experiences, member events, and behind-the-scenes access to Wisconsin Athletics. Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

Episode 15: Chris Clark | Director of Rowing For nearly three decades, Chris Clark helped shape one of the most successful programs in Wisconsin Athletics history. Now serving as Wisconsin's Director of Rowing, Clark joins Mike Heller to discuss his remarkable journey, the evolution of Badger rowing, and what makes Wisconsin such a special place to build a championship culture. In this episode, Chris shares stories from his coaching career, lessons learned from nearly 30 years at Wisconsin, the unique tradition of Badger rowing, and his perspective on leadership, culture, and developing student-athletes. Whether you're a lifelong Badger fan or simply enjoy hearing from leaders who have built lasting success, this is a conversation you won't want to miss. Subscribe to the Badger Connect Podcast for new episodes every week featuring athletes, coaches, and personalities from across Wisconsin Athletics. #Badgers #WisconsinRowing #BadgerConnect #WisconsinAthletics #ChrisClark #MikeHeller #OnWisconsin Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

Episode 14 of the Badger Connect Podcast features Wisconsin Men’s Basketball players Zach Kinziger and Will Garlock. Zach and Will join Mike Heller to discuss their basketball journeys, what led them to Wisconsin, and their experiences inside the program. The conversation covers their player development, team culture, life as a Badger student-athlete, and what fans can expect from the future of Wisconsin Basketball. This episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at two rising members of the program and the work that goes into competing at the highest level of college basketball. Watch now or listen wherever you get your podcasts. Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

Episode 13 of the Badger Connect Podcast features Wisconsin quarterback Colton Joseph and his father, David Joseph. Colton joins Mike Heller to discuss his journey from Old Dominion to Wisconsin after a breakout season that earned him Sun Belt Offensive Player of the Year honors. The conversation dives into his dual-threat playing style, adapting to Madison, and the excitement surrounding the future of Wisconsin Football. David also joins the podcast to share stories about Colton’s upbringing, their family’s football background, and what it has been like watching his son’s journey to becoming one of the most talked about quarterbacks in college football. Watch now on YouTube or listen wherever you get your podcasts. Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

On Episode 12 of the Badger Connect Podcast, Mike Heller sits down with Wisconsin Football Director of Recruiting Pat Lambert. Pat shares insights into the recruiting process at Wisconsin, the changing landscape of college football, and what it takes to identify and bring elite talent to the Badgers. Watch the full episode on YouTube #onwisconsin #badgers #badgerconnect #wisconsin #wisconsinfootball Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

Former Wisconsin Basketball standout Brian Butch joins the Badger Connect Podcast to announce his new role as the Badger Connect Communities Relations Coordinator. In this episode, Brian joins Mike Heller to discuss the launch of Badger Connect Communities, a new statewide initiative focused on connecting Wisconsin schools and communities with Wisconsin Athletics through exclusive content, experiences, and opportunities. We also dive into Brian’s basketball journey, broadcasting career, passion for Wisconsin athletics, and why this new program matters to communities across the state. Watch now and learn more about what’s ahead for Badger Connect Communities. #BadgerConnect #BrianButch #WisconsinBadgers #BadgerConnectCommunities Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

Pro Football Hall of Famer Joe Thomas joins the show. Mike Heller sits down with Joe on location at Six Springs Farm, the home of his “Hall of Fame Beef,” for a wide-ranging conversation that goes beyond football. Joe reflects on his journey from Wisconsin to the NFL, what it took to sustain a Hall of Fame career, and the mindset behind his success. The conversation also dives into life after football, including building Six Springs Farm, his transition into the cattle business, and what drives him in this next chapter. This episode offers a unique look at one of Wisconsin’s all-time greats, both on and off the field. The Badger Connect Podcast is presented by Badger Connect — giving fans closer access to Wisconsin athletics through exclusive content, events, and experiences. Learn more or become a member at https://www.badgerconnect.com Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com

Former Wisconsin Basketball standout and current assistant coach Brad Davison joins the show. Brad sits down with Mike Heller to reflect on his time as a Badger, the moments that defined his playing career, and what it meant to wear Wisconsin across five seasons. He shares insight into the mindset that helped him compete at a high level and the leadership that made him a staple of the program. Now on the coaching staff, Brad discusses the transition from player to coach, what he’s learned on the other side, and how he’s helping shape the next generation of Wisconsin basketball. The conversation also dives into the current state of the program and what fans can expect moving forward. The Badger Connect Podcast is presented by Badger Connect — giving fans closer access to Wisconsin athletics through exclusive content, events, and experiences. Learn more or become a member at https://www.badgerconnect.com Your inside connection to Wisconsin athletics. Each week, Mike Heller sits down with Badger athletes, coaches, and legends to bring fans closer to the programs they love. New episodes drop every Thursday. Join the community at BadgerConnect.com