Pivot Podcast

“Playing for Real Madrid, it’s the biggest stage in sports, the pressure is a privilege."- Aurélien Tchouaméni

The Pivot goes international! Getting ready for World Cup action, we tapped in with a man who's had success and defeat at the highest level of the sport while juggling all that life brings with it and he sits with us to give an inside-glimpse of what it's like to be apart of the most famous sports franchise in the world!

On this episode of The Pivot Podcast, Real Madrid star, Aurélien Tchouaméni opens up like never before about life at the top of world football. The Real Madrid midfielder reflects on what it means to wear one of the heaviest shirts in sports, the constant pressure to perform, and how he’s adapting to sky-high expectations both on and off the pitch.

Tchouaméni explains the rollercoaster of highs and lows that come with global success and how he navigates the pressures, never allowing himself to feel the brunt of the boos or carried away with the cheers. He shares experiences of how he manages to stay focused on the pitch despite the noise outside team walls. In a deeply personal and emotional moment, Tchouaméni opens up about the racism experienced, specifically the incident with his teammate Vinícius Júnior and how it affected all of them, but says it was Vini's leadership and voice that guided them through the difficult time, kept them playing when many wanted to walk off...and in a moment of truth, Aurelien reveals those inner discussions his teammates had about that what ifs and the honest reality of racism that exists.

The star midfielder also speaks candidly about representing the France national team, the pride that comes with it, and the heartbreak of the 2022 FIFA World Cup Final—including the emotional weight of missing his penalty kick in one of football’s biggest moments. He shares how hard the loss was, being overwhelmed with disappointment but found a way to move forward taking those lessons into every phase of his life, impacting him as a man and the way he approaches the game forever.

Tchouaméni dives into current contract talks and what his future could look like in Madrid, while also sharing a more personal side—touching on his relationship, viral moments, maintaining balance, and staying grounded amid global fame. He breaks down the financials of the sport and how it differs from American football, and that most young players start earning thousands to play at ten years old. His excitement for the NFL and studying the history and current players has turned him into an avid fan of American Football, recently spending time with Running Back Bijan Robinson who visited them in Spain as well as exchanged messages with Tom Brady.  

Looking ahead, Tchouaméni discusses redemption, growth, and his mindset as he prepares for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and what it means to be representing his country. This episode is a raw, insightful conversation about resilience, identity, and what it truly takes to compete at the highest level.

Pivot Family, comment, like, hit the subscribe button, we enjoy hearing and learning from you- the good and the bad, we want to know!
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“I had to go through the fire to be exactly who I’m supposed to be.”- Trick Williams

In this special pre-WrestleMania episode of The Pivot Podcast, WWE Superstar Trick Williams pulls up in his lemon pepper steppers showing out for Ryan, Channing and Fred in a powerful, wide-ranging conversation that goes far beyond the ring, giving a rare glimpse of the same flair and energy that has captivated million around the world.

Trick shocks us all sharing a full circle moment, from when he was a young boy having a run-in with Fred to sitting across from him now and how that impacted him forever. He opens up about his journey from the football field—where he played under legendary coach Steve Spurrier—to finding his true calling in professional wrestling, and how that athletic foundation shaped his mindset and work ethic in WWE.

Trick dives into the importance of bringing culture, authenticity, and charisma to sports entertainment, explaining how he’s helping redefine what it means to be a modern superstar. He breaks down how his signature chant, “Whoop That Trick,” organically caught fire with fans and evolved into a full-blown WWE phenomenon—turning arenas electric, call-and-response moments that showcase his undeniable connection with the crowd. He even reflects on a surreal co-sign moment with Dwayne “The Rock” Johnson —an unforgettable stamp of respect that signaled Trick’s arrival on the big stage.

As he reflects on his upbringing and the deep influence of his family, especially his mother, Trick attributes his mom's strength and guidance key into molding him into the man he is today. The conversation also touches on love and partnership, as Trick shares insight into his relationship with his fiancée, who’s also a wrestler, and how they balance ambition, support, and the grind of the business together.

With WrestleMania this week, Trick speaks candidly about the biggest matches of his career ahead, the pressure, the opportunity, and the legacy he’s determined to build. The true epitome of the word Pivot, Trick's compelling story is a lesson to all, that even when one door closes, never be afraid to kick another one down, because doing the unimaginable might end up being your true calling all along.

Pivot Family, comment, like, hit the subscribe button, we enjoy hearing and learning from you- the good and the bad, we want to know!
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"We are all sacrificing something." Craig Melvin

Today Show co-host, Craig Melvin sits down with Ryan, Channing and Fred for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about purpose, perseverance, and perspective. From his early days growing up in South Carolina to becoming a trusted voice as a face of morning television, Craig reflects on the defining moments that shaped both his career and character.

Relaxed and with transparency, Craig gives us a rare look back on his childhood, the lessons he learned from his mom and how his complicated relationship with his father led to one of the biggest and most impactful pivots in his life. His father's transformation from addiction into growth through love, hardship, and understanding helped redefine their relationship over time, and that journey ultimately inspired him to write his book. He speaks about vulnerability, forgiveness, and what it means to break cycles and evolve.

Inside his life off-camera—Craig shares insights into his marriage, the realities of parenting, true sacrifice and the constant balancing act between ambition and presence. The guys share their stories of raising a family with humility, gratitude and exchange funny father moments that they normally wouldn't say aloud!

Discussing the pressures and privileges of being a national TV host, Craig reveals how he's maintained his identity, the tough balancing act and what built the tight-knit bond between his Today Show family, giving us a glimpse into Savannah Guthrie's strength and how her return is truly a beacon of hope for all.

Craig also speaks about turning personal loss into purpose, honoring his late brother by becoming an advocate for awareness around Colon cancer, using his platform to encourage early screening and potentially save lives, he even gets Ryan, Fred and Channing to agree to getting colonoscopy's as part of a bigger push for men to do so.

Turning a life theme into his newest project, Craig shares how his new show Glass Half Full explores the stories and mindsets of athletes, entertainers, entrepreneurs and personalities through deep conversation over time, peeling back layers we never knew existed. Reflecting on legacy, future goals, and the impact he hopes to leave—not just in media, but within his own family, this episode is a thoughtful, honest exploration of growth, identity, and the power of showing up—both professionally and personally.

Pivot Family, comment, like, hit the subscribe button, we enjoy hearing and learning from you- the good and the bad, we want to know!
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“I feel like God had his hands on me because I shouldn’t be alive.”

On this powerful episode of the The Pivot Podcast, the hosts sit down with Grammy-winning artist Lecrae for a raw and inspiring conversation about transformation, faith, and purpose. Lecrae opens up about his turbulent upbringing, sharing how a tough past filled with instability and street influences shaped his early identity.

He reflects on the lessons he learned from the streets—both the survival instincts and the emotional scars—and how those experiences ultimately pushed him to search for something deeper. That search led him to Christian music, where he found not only faith, but a calling that would redefine his life.

Lecrae also dives into his evolution as an artist, discussing the challenges of balancing authenticity, faith, and mainstream success in today’s music industry. From building a groundbreaking career in Christian hip-hop to using his platform to inspire and uplift others, he shares the mindset and mission that keep him grounded. From his musical hits to working in the studio with some of music's top artists, Lecrae carved a niche for him that has led to high success and a global impact. 

At its core, this conversation is about growth, redemption, and purpose—highlighting Lecrae’s goal to bridge worlds, impact lives, and prove that your past doesn’t have to define your future.

Pivot Family, comment, like, hit the subscribe button, we enjoy hearing and learning from you- the good and the bad, we want to know!
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You Asked, We Answered: Sports, Growth & Hard Truths

It's a Good Friday for sure, on this episode of The Pivot Podcast, Ryan, Channing and Fred are tapping in with the fans and answering some of the realest questions out there—about sports, life, and the moments that shape who you become.

The guys dive into one of the biggest debates in today’s game: is NIL changing college sports for better or worse? From locker room perspective to long-term impact, they break down what today’s athletes are gaining, the root of it all—and what might be getting lost along the way.

Then it gets personal. The crew reflects on the one decision that changed the trajectory of their lives, and why those defining moments don’t always feel big when you’re in them yet turn out to be life changing. The guys also talk about the importance of having a Plan B—when to pivot, when to stay down, and how to recognize the difference.

The guys reflect and look at the people who inspired them early on—the role models, idols, and real-life examples that helped shape their mindset both on and off the field, the answers of who's on that list might surprise you!

And of course, we weigh in on the situation surrounding Jaden Ivey, offering perspective on pressure, expectations, and navigating the spotlight when the world is watching.

It’s honest, unfiltered, and straight from the heart—just how you expect it.

Pivot Family, You asked. We answered. Thank you for rocking with us and keep the comments coming, don't forget to like and subcribe too!
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