Brett Ekkens, Head Coach - Tiffin
Inside the Headset with the AFCA
On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we sit down with Brett Ekkens, the head coach at Tiffin University. Coach Ekkens shares his journey from player to coach, how adopting a no task is too small mindset shaped his career, and the lessons he learned on the way to becoming a head coach. He also discusses staff building, taking ownership at every stage of the profession, and the leadership habits that drive success inside the Tiffin program. This is a valuable conversation for coaches at every level who are striving to grow, lead, and elevate their...
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How Morningside’s Lennx Brown Honors His Sister Through Service
Inside the Headset with the AFCA
In this episode, we’re joined by Lennx Brown, wide receiver at Morningside University and a proud member of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. A standout on the field, Lennx has helped guide the Mustangs to a conference championship and a national semifinal run, earning All-Conference honors for his leadership and consistency. Off the field, Lennx’s commitment to serving others sets him apart. He has participated in mission work across Louisiana, Cuba, Uganda, and Honduras, while also supporting his local community through tornado relief and youth mentorship. Much of his passion for...
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Dylan Wheeler: Saint John’s WR & Allstate AFCA Good Works Team Member Making an Impact
Inside the Headset with the AFCA
This week, we’re spotlighting Dylan Wheeler, a standout wide receiver at Saint John’s University and a member of the 2025 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. Dylan discusses his journey as one of Division III’s top receivers and how his commitment to service has shaped his life on and off the field. Last season, Dylan recorded 21 touchdowns and over 1,100 receiving yards, establishing himself as a leader for the Johnnies. Off the field, he has raised more than $25,000 for Folds of Honor, led diversity and inclusion efforts as Saint John’s SAAC President, and helped generate $35,000 to...
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Greg Holsworth, Head Coach - Henderson State
Inside the Headset with the AFCA
On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we’re joined by Greg Holsworth, Head Coach at Henderson State University. Coach Holsworth discusses how he got his start in coaching, the lessons learned from balancing multiple roles early in his career, and the mindset it takes to stay consistent and build a winning culture. He also reflects on leadership, self-evaluation, and his experience in the 2025 AFCA 35 Under 35 program. Key Takeaways: How Coach Holsworth broke into the coaching profession Lessons from early challenges and opportunities Building and...
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Duke’s Chandler Rivers: Leading With Football & Service | Allstate AFCA Good Works Team
Inside the Headset with the AFCA
Duke University cornerback Chandler Rivers joins the show to share how leadership, teamwork, and service define his journey on and off the field. A First Team All-ACC selection and All-America honoree, Rivers has been a key part of Duke’s nationally recognized defense. Off the field, he’s equally committed to making a difference in his community. In his hometown of Beaumont, Texas, he founded the Chandler Rivers Youth Football Camp, providing free training and mentorship to local youth. His efforts also include organizing food drives, volunteering at Duke Children’s Hospital, mentoring...
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Richie Leonard IV: Florida State Star Using His Platform for Good
Inside the Headset with the AFCA
On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we sit down with Richie Leonard IV, a standout offensive lineman for Florida State University and a proud member of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. Richie has made an incredible impact not only on the field but in the lives of those around him. In addition to being a leader for the Florida State Seminoles, he’s deeply committed to giving back to his communities in both Tallahassee and his hometown. He founded the Richie H. Leonard IV Football Camp, a free event that brings together over 300 kids and families for a...
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Stanton Weber, Special Teams Coordinator - Toledo
Inside the Headset with the AFCA
On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we’re joined by Stanton Weber, the Special Teams Coordinator at the University of Toledo. Coach Weber shares his journey from Kansas State walk-on to Toledo coordinator, his approach to building elite special teams units, and how being named to the AFCA 2024 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute has shaped his growth as a coach and leader. In this conversation, Coach Weber discusses: 1:13 Introduction 1:44 When did you know you wanted to part of this profession? 3:09 What made you...
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Owen Schuckert: Leadership, Service, and Excellence at John Carroll
Inside the Headset with the AFCA
On this episode, we sit down with Owen Schuckert, senior kicker and punter at John Carroll University and a member of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. Owen shares how he’s balanced athletic excellence, academic achievement, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. A 2024 OAC Special Teams Player of the Year and First Team All-OAC selection, Owen has also volunteered over 300 hours with Sparks Specialized Services, supporting developmentally disabled men through home care, transportation, and friendship. Off the field, Owen’s leadership shines as he serves as President of the...
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Josh Kattus: Kentucky Tight End Leading Through Service | Allstate AFCA Good Works Team
Inside the Headset with the AFCA
In this episode, we’re joined by Josh Kattus, senior tight end for the University of Kentucky and member of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. On the field, Josh has earned a reputation as a tough, reliable playmaker—starting in 15 of 33 games and delivering clutch moments, including a game-winning touchdown against a top-10 Ole Miss team. Off the field, his leadership and heart for service shine even brighter. Josh volunteers weekly at the DanceBlue Kentucky Children’s Hospital Hematology Oncology Clinic, supports families at the Ronald McDonald House, raises money for local causes...
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James Ross III, OLB/Defensive Ends - Houston
Inside the Headset with the AFCA
On this week’s episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we’re joined by James Ross III, the Defensive Ends and Outside Linebackers Coach at the University of Houston. Coach Ross shares his journey from player to coach, lessons learned from his time at Michigan, Hope College, Cincinnati, and Tulane, and how he’s learned to balance family life with the demands of coaching. A proud member of the 2025 AFCA 35 Under 35 Coaches Leadership Institute, Ross also reflects on what the honor means and how it’s shaping his coaching future. Whether you’re a coach, player, or fan,...
info_outlineOn this week’s episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we’re joined by Demario Warren, Special Teams Coordinator and Cornerbacks Coach at Boise State University.
Coach Warren shares how he found his passion for coaching, what it means to be a valuable asset to those around you, and how his experiences as a Defensive Coordinator and Head Coach have shaped his perspective in his current role at Boise State.
He also discusses earning respect as a young coach, leading with authenticity, and his journey from Southern Utah to the Mountain West.
Follow Coach Warren and Boise State Football on social media: @DemarioWarren | @BroncoSportsFB
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🕒 Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction
01:45 – Finding a passion for coaching
05:40 – Lessons from basketball coaching
08:00 – Transitioning into college football
10:15 – First coaching role at Southern Utah
18:30 – Switching from offense to defense
27:30 – Becoming a Defensive Coordinator
43:13 – Getting the Head Coaching job
58:35 – Joining Boise State
1:01:48 – AFCA 35 Under 35 experience