The Moonlight Graham Show

Inspired by Moonlight Graham from The Field of Dreams, our podcast aspires to capture some of the best stories from sports heard directly from the athletes and figures who experienced them.

Keith Duncan: Cutthroat Kicking 12/01/2023

Keith Duncan: Cutthroat Kicking In this episode of the Moonlight Graham Show, we turn our focus to a special kind of underdog – the often overlooked yet crucially important football kicker. Our guest, Keith Duncan, a former Iowa walk-on kicker known for his game-winning field goal against Nebraska, joins us to share his unique perspective on the sport. The inspiration for this episode struck as I watched the recent Iowa vs. Nebraska football game, witnessing another walk-on kicker step into the spotlight under immense pressure. It brought back memories of Keith's own dramatic experience, making him the perfect guest to discuss the intricacies and pressures of the role. Keith, now a colleague of mine, provides insider insights into the Iowa football season, including his thoughts on the Hawkeyes' performance and their chances in the upcoming Big Ten Championship game against Michigan. His reflections on the role of a kicker in football are particularly enlightening. In a sport often defined by physicality and machismo, the kicker, sometimes a smaller, less conspicuous player, can carry the weight of an entire team's hopes on their shoulders. Our discussion with Keith is not just about kicking field goals; it's about the mental and physical demands of the role, the journey of a walk-on player, and the singular moments when games – and sometimes entire seasons – hinge on one kick. Having previously hosted other notable kickers like Nate Kading and Billy Cundiff, Keith Duncan's addition to our roster of guests brings another layer of depth to understanding this critical position. This episode is sure to appeal not only to Iowa fans but to anyone intrigued by the nuances of college football and the stories of unsung heroes who emerge in the most pressure-filled moments. Join us for a compelling conversation with Keith Duncan, a moonlighter whose story captures the essence of precision, pressure, and the pivotal role of the kicker. /episode/index/show/moonlightgrahamshow/id/28888463

Jack Brownlee: Youth Sports and Raising Champions 11/17/2023

Jack Brownlee: Youth Sports and Raising Champions On this episode of the Moonlight Graham Show, we're bringing back a true original, one of our very first guests who embodies the underdog spirit, Jack Brownlee. As the pivotal point guard who led Fort Dodge St. Edmond to a historic state championship victory in 2000, Jack is no stranger to overcoming odds and exemplifying what it means to be a Moonlighter. Jack's journey from high school legend to a passionate advocate for the love of the game is as inspiring as it is instructive. After a notable performance at Kirkwood Community College, he walked on to the University of Iowa team, contributing to some of the most memorable Hawkeye squads of the era. Today, Jack's love for basketball hasn't waned but has transformed into a dedication to nurturing young talent. In our conversation, we explore Jack's innovative approach to youth sports with 'Basketball Buddies'—a grassroots initiative aimed at kindling a love for basketball in kids within a fun, unstructured environment. Jack is tackling the increasingly competitive world of youth sports with a focus on enjoyment and skill development rather than the pressures of travel leagues. Moreover, this episode delves into the delicate balance of parenting and coaching in today's sports landscape. How do you, as a parent or coach, resist the pull of the travel sports trend while still providing the best opportunities for development? Jack shares his insights and experiences, drawing parallels between his own upbringing in sports and his vision for his son and other young athletes. Join us as we chop it up with Jack Brownlee, discussing hoops, parenting, coaching, and how to cultivate a genuine love for sports in the next generation without succumbing to the pitfalls of early specialization. This episode is not just for sports enthusiasts but also for parents and coaches seeking a mindful approach to youth sports and development. Enjoy a heartfelt discussion with Jack Brownlee, a Moonlighter making a difference both on and off the court. /episode/index/show/moonlightgrahamshow/id/28694303

Sean Johnson - World Long Drive Runner-Up 11/10/2023

Sean Johnson - World Long Drive Runner-Up This week on the Moonlight Graham Show, we're reconnecting with a guest whose story captures the essence of athletic versatility and the relentless pursuit of greatness. Sean Johnson, a towering former baseball player turned World Long Drive competitor, joins us to discuss his incredible ascent in the sport of long drive golf. Sean's athletic prowess first shone on the baseball diamond, where he claimed a junior college national championship with Iowa Western and hurled pitches for Ole Miss in the SEC before dipping into the minor leagues. When we last spoke to Sean a year and a half ago, he was at the beginning of his transition from the ballpark to the tee box – a move that intrigued and excited us. Since that conversation, Sean's trajectory has been nothing short of meteoric. From consistently placing in the top ten to challenging the elite in the sport, Sean has proven his mettle against some of the most powerful athletes in long drive competitions. His recent near-victory at the World Long Drive Championships, where he finished as runner-up to the renowned Kyle Berkshire, cements his status as a formidable force in the sport. In this episode, Sean shares the details of his journey over the past 18 months, the rigorous training that propelled him to the top, and the electrifying experience of competing at the highest level, coming tantalizingly close to clinching the world championship title. We also delve into the colorful and adrenaline-fueled world of long drive competitions – a spectacle that combines the raw power of weightlifting, the flair of WWE, and the precision of golf. Listeners will get an inside look at what it's like to stand on the precipice of becoming a world champion, the dedication required to excel in such a niche yet rapidly growing sport, and the fascinating blend of athleticism and showmanship that defines the long drive. Sean's story is a testament to what it means to be a Moonlighter – a relentless underdog striving for the pinnacle of success. Tune in for an inspiring episode with Sean Johnson, where we not only celebrate his recent achievements but also eagerly anticipate the moment we can call him a world champion. Follow his journey, cheer on his powerful drives, and become part of the growing community of fans supporting a fellow Moonlighter reaching for new heights. /episode/index/show/moonlightgrahamshow/id/28577963

Brady Ross: Former Walk-On Fullback gives his thoughts on Iowa's Offense 10/31/2023

Brady Ross: Former Walk-On Fullback gives his thoughts on Iowa's Offense This week on the Moonlight Graham Show, we delve into the story of Brady Ross, a former Iowa Hawkeye fullback whose journey and character perfectly capture the essence of what this show and Iowa Hawkeye football are all about. Ross, who joined the Iowa program as a walk-on and transitioned from linebacker to fullback, truly embodies the role-player spirit. During his four years starting, Ross's stats might not jump off the page - with only 13 carries, 25 total yards, a touchdown, and seven receptions - but his commitment and selflessness speak volumes about his dedication to the team. Renowned for putting the team's needs above his own and being a consistent and reliable blocker, Ross's contributions extend beyond traditional stats, making him an ideal guest for our show. Though he might not be a headline-maker, his impact on the Hawkeye football program is undeniable, as he's even caught the attention of national platforms like Barstool Sports. Contrary to initial expectations of Ross being a stereotypical "football bro," the interview reveals a different side. Ross surprises with his thoughtful, intelligent perspectives, offering more than just football insights. His background from Humboldt, Iowa, close to Fort Dodge, adds to his relatable, down-to-earth personality. The timing of the episode is particularly relevant, considering the recent developments with Iowa's offensive coordinator, Brian Ferentz. Ross provides an insider's perspective, defending the Hawkeye program and offering insights that regular fans and commentators might overlook. His interview not only sheds light on his experiences within the offense but also eloquently defends the coaching and the program's direction. Brady Ross's story is a testament to the underdog spirit, encapsulating the Moonlight Graham Show's mission to highlight those who make significant contributions in less visible roles. His journey from walk-on to a key player in a top college program, his approach to the game, and his ability to articulate a player's perspective on the broader aspects of college football, make this episode a must-listen for fans seeking a deeper understanding of the game and the people who play it. /episode/index/show/moonlightgrahamshow/id/28475930

Peter Jok and the Best Iowans to Never Play in the NBA 10/19/2023

The Longest Losing Streak in Sports History 10/03/2023

Iowa vs. THE WORLD 09/29/2023

A State Divided… by VNITY PL8S 09/22/2023

Michael Barta - Johnston Baseball Coach 09/13/2023

Ben Meyer - Weight Loss and Brian Ferentz 09/08/2023

Tom Wilson - Dowling Catholic Head Football Coach 08/24/2023

NCAA Gambling Scandal 08/22/2023

Robert Etzel - Hitchhiking to Wrigley and Minor League Baseball in the 1950s 08/09/2023

2 Holes in One, One Weekend. 07/20/2023

Iowans in the MLB - First Half Update 07/14/2023

Caddie Chronicles: Sam Meuret and the 2023 US Open Local Qualifier 07/06/2023

We Are Back! (and so is Baseball!) 06/30/2023

Nate McCoy 01/31/2023

Nate McCoy This week we are sending out dreams of spring and early tee times on the weekend. Tim sits down with Nate McCoy to talk all things golf and life after you start carrying your own bag. The former Cyclone and pro golfer shares his perspective on the game, his career, and his decision to make a career in golf without the clubs in his hands. Nate McCoy was an accomplished prep golfer and the son of one of the top amateur golfers in the country, Mike McCoy. The game is basically in his DNA. After a dominating state title in his senior year of high school, McCoy emerged as one of the top golfers on the Cyclone team in 2008. He put together one of the best resumes in Cyclone golf history in his four seasons. Some might even argue he was the best male athlete at Iowa State in 2012, as he was named the Male Athlete of the Year over Royce White and Steele Jantz. Who says golfers aren’t athletes? After finishing his college career and playing against the guys who became some of the biggest names in golf, like Jordan Spaeth and Brooks Koepka, McCoy teed up his own pro career. He took his clubs and his new wife to Canada to play on the professional tour in Canada. Crisscrossing Canada, earning a win, and making tons of memories was a great experience before he came back to the states. After 3 years as a pro and playing on the Korn Ferry Tour, he returned home to start the next phase of his life and career after 2016. He was playing well and had some high finishes, but with a wife and baby at home, he was ready to head to the clubhouse. Nate McCoy is still a competitive amateur with several recent wins on his resume and eyes on a national title and his name on a Masters scorecard. In 2022, McCoy won the Iowa Amateur, Iowa Masters, and Iowa Match Play titles. Today, his professional life is focused on promoting and building golf in Iowa. As a true amateur with a day job, he is able to spend his time with his wife and kids while still trying to win every time he steps on the course. /episode/index/show/moonlightgrahamshow/id/25785141

Mitch Osborn 01/24/2023

Mitch Osborn Every Iowa sports fan knows the reputation of Harlan Community High School. The Harlan Cyclones are known far and wide for their success in every sport. Coach Bladt and the football program built a foundation of success that the entire community rests on. There is a lot of pride in the school colors and full bleachers whenever they take the field or court. Mitch Osborn has helped to continue that success in his roles as AD and head basketball coach. This week we sit down with Coach Osborn to learn about his career and what makes Harlan so darn special. Coach Mitch Osborn has been around sports his whole life. He has spent countless hours on the court or field as an athlete, coach, AD, and dad. His basketball teams have had runs that any coach would be jealous of, but they are part of a culture of winning at Harlan Community. His time at Elk Horn-Kimballton and then a state title with Pomeroy-Palmer were great stops on his journey, but Coach Osborn is most known for his time in the red and silver. Coach Osborn has over 700 career wins, 20 of his seasons have ended at the state tournament, and was inducted into the Iowa High School Athletic Association Boys Basketball Hall of Fame in 2014. He gives a lot of credit to his players and their community for his successes, but Harlan Community is a unique place. Coach Osborn talks about watching legendary football coach Curt Bladt run practice and about maintaining a competitive culture. Part of that culture at Harlan Community is multi-sport athletes. Many of the best athletes in Harlan's history, including Coach Osborns own sons, competed nearly year-round for the Cyclones. He credits having depth and competitive practices as key parts of having sustained success. While it seems like the rest of the world is driving kids to specialize, one of the winningest athletic departments in state history emphasizes just the opposite. The Moonlight Graham Show is always rooting for the underdogs, and while that isn’t a label given to Harlan Community very often, we love the way that school, and the entire community, get it done year in and year out. /episode/index/show/moonlightgrahamshow/id/25712661

Chris Rossi - The Gospel of Pickleball 01/17/2023

Kevin Negaard - Raising Money for The Miracle League by Playing Catch 01/10/2023

Griffin House 01/04/2023

Reed Timmer - Drake Basketball's All-Time Leading Scorer 12/28/2022

Ryan Harklau 12/20/2022

Tyler O'Shea - The Best Underdog Stories of 2022 12/13/2022

The Greatest Multi-Sport Athletes 12/06/2022

Pat Venditte - The Amphibious Pitcher Who Changed the Rules of MLB Baseball 11/29/2022

The Epic Tale of the 1985 Minnesota High School Swimming Champions 11/23/2022

The Epic Tale of the 1985 Minnesota High School Swimming Champions This week the Moonlight Graham Show takes a dip, and we aren’t talking about the Thanksgiving appetizers. What better time for our first episode about swimming than just as the first rounds of snow hit the ground? Tim sits down with Paul Jensen and Don Appleby of the 1985 Minnesota state swimming champions from Burnsville High School. This team was a true underdog story. Minnesota might be the land of 10,000 lakes, but most think of fishing, recreational swimming, and frozen lakes for ice hockey more than racing lanes. “Swim or die” is a Minnesota mantra because of how much time is spent around water. Every little kid needs to learn to swim just for safety. But Paul Jensen and Don Appleby went from being swimmers to champions in the mid-1980s and credit their teammates and their legendary coach for making that jump. In 1984, the Burnsville swim team set the goal of qualifying for the state meet. The qualifying times were very fast, so making it to state was an achievement in itself. That 1984 Burnsville team finished 22nd in the state and was very accomplished. That changed the expectations for the 1985 season, though. Paul and Don were part of that 1984 squad and entered the 1985 season as a senior and junior, respectively. Coach Dennis Dale had been an all-Big Ten and All-American swimmer at the University of Minnesota in the 1960s. After his time at Burnsville, Dale won Big Ten titles as the head coach at the University of Minnesota in the 1990s and 2000s. Paul and Don consider Dale one of the best leaders they have ever seen in any field. His coaching philosophy, expectations in the weight room, and the way he ran a practice were what helped to set their team apart. This episode tells the glory-days story of how the Burnsville underdogs went from 22nd in the state to the top of the podium. The lifelong relationships, life lessons, and memories of that season shaped these teenage guys and helped them lead successful careers in the Navy and their professional careers. There is nothing like a good high school story to kick off Thanksgiving weekend. /episode/index/show/moonlightgrahamshow/id/25112928

Mike Szalat - Making Cross Country Fun for over 20 Years! 11/15/2022

John Klein - From Triton to Twin 11/08/2022

John Klein - From Triton to Twin This week’s episode features an upcoming prospect. We don’t mean a guy projected to develop into something special; we mean a diamond in the rough uncut gem. John Klein has only been pitching for four seasons, yet he recently signed with the Minnesota Twins. It all began with a chance to move to the mound in high school, which set his baseball career on a new trajectory. Like many Minnesota kids, John Klein grew up near Minneapolis and dreamed of being the next Joe Mauer. He spent his baseball career behind the plate until his coaches asked him if he wanted to toe the rubber going into his junior year of high school. Without any coaching, he was touching the high 80s. His coaches saw something special and told him that this whole pitching thing might turn out well for John if he was willing to do the work. Klein was drawing interest from small schools as a catcher, and then, late in his high school career, he started to draw some interest as a pitcher or in a split role. Moonlighter Coach Stein from Iowa Central was able to get Klein to make the trip south to Fort Dodge, and once he was on campus, he bought in. Iowa Central took the raw talent of a 6’5, 235lbs power pitcher and used analytics and data to shape him into a real pitcher. Working hard in the weight room helped him increase his power. Still, bullpen work with the Rapsodo machine helped him understand how to develop his control and go from a fastball/change-up pitcher to developing a curveball and, later, a slider. Now he is developing his understanding of control and pitch sequencing to become a complete pitcher. John Klein’s plans went through a few tweaks before becoming a part of the Minnesota Twins system. He was initially heading to KState and the Big 12 but had to alter his course. Next up was a D2 school in Minnesota, but that only lasted about a week before he got the call from the Minnesota Twins and found himself heading to the Florida Complex League for Rookie Ball. As John Klein starts his professional baseball career, he’ll be the first to admit that seeing his name on the back of a Minnesota Twins jersey is surreal. /episode/index/show/moonlightgrahamshow/id/24942867

The Moonlight Graham Show

TOPICS