Talkin' Hawks with The VandeBergs

In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura sit down with Mark Gronowski for an in-depth conversation on his transition into the Iowa Hawkeyes program and what fans can expect heading into the 2026 college football season.
Fresh off spring practices, Gronowski breaks down how he’s adjusting to Iowa’s system, building chemistry with new teammates, and stepping into a leadership role at quarterback. The discussion dives into his football journey, the mindset that’s helped him succeed at a high level, and what it means to now wear the black and gold inside one of the most tradition-rich programs in college football.
Matt and Laura also unpack key takeaways from Iowa’s spring camp, including offensive development, locker room culture, and how this team is shaping up ahead of fall. With insight into preparation, expectations, and the competitive edge Gronowski brings, this episode offers a behind-the-scenes look at the Hawkeyes’ quarterback room and the direction of the program.
If you’re an Iowa fan or follow college football closely, this is a must-listen conversation as the Hawkeyes gear up for a pivotal season.
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In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura sit down with Iowa women’s basketball standout Kylie Feuerbach for an honest conversation about her journey, the culture inside the Hawkeye program, and what the future holds for Iowa hoops.
Kylie opens up about her path from Illinois to Iowa, the transfer decision that changed her career, and what it was like stepping into one of the most nationally recognized programs in college basketball. She shares behind-the-scenes insight into the team culture under Lisa Bluder, the pressure and excitement of playing in sold-out arenas, and how the Hawkeyes navigated the rise of national attention around the program.
The conversation also dives into the whirlwind years of Iowa women’s basketball—from buzzer beaters and national headlines to unforgettable moments like packed crowds at Carver-Hawkeye Arena and the historic growth of the sport. Kylie reflects on the friendships, challenges, and lessons that shaped her time as a Hawkeye while also giving fans a glimpse of what’s ahead for the program.
Matt and Laura also recap the latest storylines around Hawkeye athletics, including Iowa basketball, wrestling, gymnastics, and NFL Combine performances from former Iowa football players, before turning the spotlight to one of the team’s most respected leaders.
If you’re an Iowa fan, this episode gives you a candid look inside the program and the mindset of a player who has experienced the rise of Hawkeye women’s basketball from the inside.

In this offseason edition of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura sit down with Iowa senior guard Taylor McCabe for a conversation that’s honest, reflective, and full of perspective. From her early recruiting days in Nebraska to playing on some of the most historic teams in Iowa women’s basketball history, Taylor opens up about the journey that shaped her — and what this final season means to her now.

Taylor shares what it was like entering the program during the Caitlin Clark era, learning from elite teammates, and finding her role on nationally ranked teams that changed the trajectory of Iowa women’s basketball. She talks about the mindset required to stay ready, the culture that keeps the program thriving through roster changes, and how preparation has fueled her confidence every step of the way.

The conversation also dives into her recent injury — how she’s navigating recovery, leading from the sidelines, and embracing her senior season with gratitude and perspective. You’ll hear about her family’s athletic background, her competitive upbringing, the recruiting process that led her to Iowa, and the special bond she shares with her teammates.

This episode is a behind-the-scenes look at leadership, resilience, and what it truly means to wear the black and gold. Whether you’re a longtime Iowa women’s basketball fan or just love hearing the real stories behind college athletics, this one is for you.

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In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura sit down with Bennett Stirtz, Iowa men’s basketball guard and one of the most intriguing voices on the roster, for a wide-ranging conversation that goes far beyond the box score.

Bennett opens up about his journey to Iowa, growing up in Liberty, Missouri, in a competitive, all-boys household, and what it was like being coached by his dad throughout high school. He shares how an early wake-up call about work ethic changed the trajectory of his career, why he didn’t play AAU until later than most, and how countless early mornings in the gym shaped both his game and mindset.

The conversation also dives into Iowa’s early-season challenges, including tough road environments, narrow losses, and what this group is learning as they grow together under Coach McCollum. Bennett talks leadership, basketball IQ, embracing hard coaching, and what it really means to “fit the culture” at Iowa — on and off the court.

Plus, things take a fun turn with stories about siblings, other sports he played growing up, March Madness memories, and a teaser of a potential new fan-driven fundraising idea that Hawkeye fans won’t want to miss.

Whether you’re following Iowa basketball closely or just love hearing the personal stories behind the jersey, this episode delivers insight, honesty, and a glimpse into the work ethic that defines Hawkeye hoops.

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In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura break down Iowa’s emotional walk-off win over Michigan State—including Drew Stevens’ senior day game-winner—and reflect on the heartfelt sideline moments surrounding longtime PA announcer Mark Abbott’s retirement and Kelsey Laverdiere’s final game in Kinnick. They also spotlight the unsung heroes of special teams and the offensive resilience shown in the fourth quarter.Men’s basketball standout Cooper Koch joins the pod to discuss Iowa’s undefeated start, his unique recruiting story, growing up in a competitive hoops household, and the cultural shift under Coach McCollum. He gives insight into leadership, conditioning, strategic defensive changes, and the intentional connection the team is building with students and fans. The episode closes with a preview of the upcoming matchup against Nebraska, highlighting key adjustments and what to watch for as the Hawks prepare to carry momentum into the rivalry game.