Pivot Podcast

• Michael Carter-Williams Former NBA Star opens up on Mental Health struggles and depression after early success, extra pressure going from Rookie of the year accolades to the injuries to fighting to feel alive and regain back control of his life.

  “I was at the lowest point, I didn't know what I wanted. I didn't even know if I wanted to be alive at the time.” Michael Carter-Williams Former NBA star  In this powerful episode of The Pivot Podcast, former NBA Rookie of the Year Michael Carter-Williams sits down with Ryan Clark, Fred Taylor, and Channing Crowder to share the untold story of his journey through the highs and lows of professional basketball, the quiet moments that almost broke him and uncovering resilience. From instant stardom to injury setbacks and battling to stay in the league, Micheal opens up on how he found the mental toughness needed to keep pushing when the world counted him out and shares how he found peace and joy again. From rock bottom back up to the fullest he's been in his life, Michael talks about the pressure of early success, the lessons learned from adversity, and how fatherhood and personal growth reshaped his mindset both on and off the court. This conversation is raw and honest about identity, perseverance, and finding purpose beyond the sport. He reflects on growing up in a wealthy town but not having wealth, navigating the feeling of being an outsider in both predominantly white and Black spaces, and how basketball became his outlet.   Michael takes the guys through the surreal moment of winning Rookie of the Year with the 76ers, only to be traded the next season. He opens up about being coached by his childhood idol Jason Kidd, their fallout, the challenges of bouncing between five teams in five years, and the mental toll of trying to live up to high expectations.   At one of the lowest moments in his life, Michael reveals how he lost both his NBA job and his fiancé in the same week, sending him into deep depression and self-doubt. He admits there was a time he didn’t even know if he wanted to be alive. But through therapy, self-reflection, and rediscovering his purpose, he found his way back, eventually re-earning the trust of his now-wife and securing a two-year deal with the Orlando Magic.   Transitioning into the next phase of his life, Michael talks about his role as an ESPN analyst, the importance of teaching athletes about business, and why mental health is still taboo in NBA locker rooms. He hopes to change that narrative by starting real conversations something he wishes had been available to him earlier in his career.   This episode of the Pivot is about survival, self-worth, and embracing the journey, no matter how unpredictable it gets. Michael Carter-Williams’ story proves that success isn’t defined by awards or contracts, but by the ability to fight through adversity, rebuild, and come back stronger than before. Don't forget to comment, follow and like for more conversations like this! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  56:37
• Penny Hardaway Pride of Memphis, NBA Hall of Famer to Visionary College Coach, Mentorship, Orlando Magic, Shaq stories, playing vs Michael Jordan, bond with grandma, NIL in NCAA and impactful legacy

  “I came back and gave my time so that I could give a young man an opportunity to dream, understand how to handle himself on and off court, have accountability, responsibility and to share a mentality that nothing is going to be given to you, you have to earn everything and get out of entitlement phase.” Penny Hardaway   In this episode of The Pivot Podcast, Ryan, Channing and Fred sit down with NBA legend and Hall of Famer Penny Hardaway for an in-depth conversation about his journey from basketball icon to cultural influencer to fatherhood to head coach of the Memphis Tigers. This conversation goes far beyond basketball, it’s about life, leadership, mentorship, and Penny's commitment to giving back to his community to inspire future generations. Penny opens up about his early days growing up in Memphis, his rise to fame in the NBA, and the lessons he’s carried with him throughout his career. He shares with the guys his humble beginnings and being raised by his grandmother after both his parents were in and out of the picture. He speaks with raw honesty about the quiet strength she instilled in him, preaching loyalty to his roots and how that foundation helped him navigate the fame and expectations that would come with being one of the most prolific athletes of his generation. As one of the most beloved figures in basketball, Penny shares behind-the-scenes stories from his time with the Orlando Magic, From playing alongside Shaquille O’Neal to chasing a championship to facing Michael Jordan to injuries derailing his explosive career...Penny doesn't lean into regrets, but admits that without the injuries, his name would have been mentioned with the greats. Despite Shaq and Penny going separate ways, he admits that the most fun he had playing basketball was with his larger than life teammate and it was a rockstar lifestyle on and off the court. Now as Head Coach of the Memphis Tigers, Penny is more than just a coach. He’s a pillar for his city and a mentor to a new generation of young men. He reflects on the promise he made to his childhood friend and former coach Desmond Merriweather, a promise that brought him back home and inspired him to help create paths for young people to chase dreams. He talks about coaching his own sons and how it brought a new love of the game seeing his own sons play and be able to connect with them differently. With a disappointing early-round loss in NCAA tournament, Penny understands that the post season is where legacy is created, not just for him as a coach but for the athletes too. Navigating the NIL landscape has been tricky, but Penny stands firm on his philosophy that anyone can give you the money, butt not everyone can get you better in the gym. One of our favorite conversations we have had because of the honesty and realness in the words spoken as Penny reminds us all that life is bigger than who we are, it's what we do with the gifts given to us that matter the most. And in every word, he proves that no matter how far you go, there’s power in returning home, not just to give back, but to build something bigger than yourself. Follow us and comment on what you think about this conversation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  59:12
• Fred Kerley Track and Field Olympic Medalist, how track saved his life, extreme confidence, calls out Noah Lyles, how being a father changed him, addresses police incident in Miami, preparation, mission to become fastest man in world

  “I became world champion in a year and a half. People ain't been on my level. I’m more than special.” Fred Kerley  Fred Kerley’s speed on the track is matched only by the intensity of his mindset and the strength of his journey. Sitting with Ryan, Channing and Fred- the guys are taking back by his serious demeanor and no-play attitude.  From a football and basketball hopeful to one of the fastest men in the universe, the Olympic medalist and world champion sits down with The Pivot crew to talk about the twists, turns, and challenges that shaped his career.   Kerley doesn’t hold back as he reflects on the defining moments of his life, Growing up in a tough environment, being adopted, and making a life-changing decision to leave Texas to pursue a professional contract, which he credits to helping him mature faster and avoiding the pitfalls that trapped so many around him.   Kerley opens up about handling various pressures of being an elite sprinter and how hundreds of hours of preparation comes down to less than a minute and how your whole life and career can change in 9 seconds. Building up mental resilience to stay focused and achieve success is the goal every second of the day.  While Fred dominates the track, he shares his thoughts on life beyond racing—his love for farming, his dedication to his kids, and why he believes track and field doesn’t get the respect it deserves compared to the NBA and NFL.   Of course, Kerley doesn’t shy away from the rivalries that fuel his competitive fire, taking direct aim at Noah Lyles: “Go look at the record books, look who got more wins.” Whether it’s lining up against the best in the world or proving his critics wrong, Kerley is confident in his abilities and unapologetic in his approach. With high expectations swirling around the 2028 LA Olympics, he’s determined to go out on top and spend his next 2 years regaining his title as fastest man in the world.  Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  1:00:04
• Andrew Schulz and Ryan Clark address their public disagreement, sharing the importance of uncomfortable conversations in growth, intent vs impact in comedy, personal struggles and Andrew's comments on black women explained.

  "You call me a lot of things, but ignorant I'd disagree on." Andrew Schulz Comedian and Actor Comedy is all about pushing boundaries, but what happens when the joke lands differently than expected? Over the past few months, Ryan Clark and Andrew Schulz have had a public disagreement stemming from comments Andrew made in jest about Black women and their influence on men's appearance. His remarks led Ryan to respond, emphasizing a commitment to defending his culture and refuting Andrew’s insinuations of seeking attention. From their viral exchange about clout-chasing and defending black women to messages exchanged privately to the two finally deciding to hash it out face to face. Although tensions were high, the depth and tone of this discussion displayed respect, even in uncomfortable moments, the guys navigated the conversation through the many challenges and misconceptions to try and find a common ground. On this episode of The Pivot Podcast with Ryan, Channing and Fred—Andrew's authenticity shined through, bringing humor, honesty and humility as the men had an unfiltered discussion, where no topic was off limits. Andrew and Ryan don’t shy away from tough dialogue, sensitive topics and tackling the fine line between making people laugh and making them uncomfortable. In an effort to separate impact of words from the intent, Andrew explains how his jokes can sometimes be misinterpreted and how comedy, at its core, is about perspective. As the convo furthers, the guys get in-depth about the weight of words, racism, reactions to jokes. the changing nature of comedic responsibility, social media and how the internet can twist context into controversy. Andrew admits that his approach to comedy has matured over time, and he’s become conscious of never wanting to hurt anyone and feels his humor is now diversified and united by cultural impact of all people. Buried in the deep revelations, Andrew comes prepared with lots of one liners and fun jabs at Ryan, Fred and Channing, showing a glimpse of the wit, edge and quickness that has yielded his extraordinary success. Beyond the laughs, Andrew opens up about his personal life, from his father’s role in his career to getting his start in comedy to his struggles with starting a family and how his fanbase transcended into one of the most diverse audiences in comedy. At the core of this discussion is proof that people, even those who have differences and seem on total opposite sides of something, may be more alike than different afterall. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  1:12:51
• Ryan Clark, Fred Taylor, Channing Crowder discuss sports' biggest storylines and hot button topics from Stephen A to Lebron to Bronny to NCAA tournament, Deion Sanders + Asante Samuel to Viral morning routines to our different takes in parenting

  Before March bids us farewell, the guys weigh in on some of the sports madness the month has brought us and we aren't just talking about the NCAA tournament- we get into it all with a lot of laughs, heated debates and bold takes. From legend rivalries to the back forth of Stephen A and Lebron to social media craziness to Bronny's career to NCAA women's basketball this year vs last- Ryan, Fred, and Channing are breaking down the biggest storylines- unfiltered and without hesitation. Reacting directly to Lebron's interview on Pat McAfee, Ryan believes the conversation was full of so many nuggets about sports, life and family but Channing says none of that matters to him when considering if Bronny deserves to be in the NBA while Ryan and Fred offer a more measured take. The guys discuss the fallout of how far it's gotten with Stephen A and how the saga is very personal and no longer just about basketball. As the conversation shifts to Bronny James, LeBron’s parenting, all three guys can relate to wanting to protect your family and also on creating the most opportunity for your children through doors you can help open for them. Channing and Fred discuss what is the best ways to set up your children for success and stability while Ryan says providing an example is the best way to show them the way personally, professionally and respectfully by passing down values and sharing traits to help deal with the pros and cons faced. As parents, how do we phrase therapy, especially for young people, as a positive action vs "something must be wrong"? Also making headlines is the viral exchange between NFL All Pro Asante Samuel and Deion Sanders- the guys try to make sense of the conversation and why one side would even challenge the other in this skill level debate as Ryan, Channing and Fred are very blunt on their response to the two's war of words. The fellas dive into the viral phenomenon of Ashton Hall’s morning routine, debating whether his banana peel and Saratoga water content is motivational or just another influencer trend. Ryan offers up his own experiences of comparing one's everyday grind to someone else’s highlight reel as everyone's struggles and circumstances are different. Fred emphasizes perspective, importance of staying authentic and not allowing the highs of success change the course while Channing says he never will stray from who he is to appease public perception. And of course, it wouldn’t be March without some hoops talk, the unfortunate outcome for JuJu Watkins to praising Hailey Van Lith's vulnerability to this year's NCAA tournament to Caitlin Clark and Angel Reese forever impacting women's sports but did we take for granted the competition Caitlin and Angel created? Listen to what the guys say as they dive into that and much more. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

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  1:03:15

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