Destination Talk

What does wrestling leave with you long after your competitive career is over?

In Episode 58 of Destination Talk, we sit down with Steve Mytych to explore a journey built through hard work, resilience, and a lifelong commitment to the sport of wrestling. From becoming a 100-plus match winner at Drexel University to coaching at the Division I level, Steve shares the experiences that shaped him—not only as a wrestler, but as a coach, mentor, and leader.

Together, we discuss the lessons competition teaches, the mental side of wrestling, the transition from athlete to coach, an...

What happens when the lessons learned on a wrestling mat are applied in some of the highest-pressure situations imaginable?

In Episode 57 of Destination Talk, we sit down with former Rutgers wrestler Matthew Pletcher to discuss the journey from Division I athletics to a career in law enforcement. Matt shares how wrestling shaped his mindset, prepared him for life beyond competition, and ultimately influenced the training he now provides to law enforcement professionals.

This conversation explores discipline, leadership, decision-making under pressure, and the connection between controlling emotions and controlling outcomes. We also discuss the challenges facing...

How does a kid from New Zealand end up playing professional Ultimate Frisbee in New York?

In Episode 56 of Destination Talk, we welcome Nicholas Whitlock of the New York Empire to discuss a journey that has taken him from the fields of New Zealand to competing at the highest level of professional Ultimate in the United States.

Nicholas shares what sports culture looks like in New Zealand, how Ultimate first entered his life, and why a game that many people still know very little about became a passion worth pursuing. Along the way, we explore...

Everybody celebrates the wins.

Very few talk about the pressure, doubt, and internal battles athletes carry long before the spotlight ever hits them.

Episode 55 of Destination Talk features Jaivon Jones from Arkansas-Little Rock as he opens up about the mental side of competing, the moments he questioned himself, the grind people never see, and what it felt like finishing his collegiate wrestling career on the biggest stage at the NCAA Division I Wrestling Championships in Cleveland.

This conversation goes far beyond wrestling.

We discuss:

• The reality of Division I co...

What does “Be The Standard” actually look like when you’re responsible for an entire football program?

On Episode 54 of Destination Talk, Zach Watkins, head football coach at Washburn University, breaks down the pressure that comes with leadership, the expectations attached to the position, and why culture collapses the moment standards become optional.

Coach Watkins opens up about:

He walked into Division 1 wrestling believing he was prepared.

Then reality hit.

On Episode 53 of Destination Talk, Julian Farber takes listeners inside the moments most athletes never talk about publicly—the pressure, the doubt, the identity shifts, and the mental battles that come with competing inside the University of Northern Iowa wrestling program room.

This isn’t a highlight reel conversation.

It’s an honest look at what happens when talent alone is no longer enough.

Julian breaks down:

What happens when the thing that gives you purpose also becomes the thing that tests you the most?

In Episode 52 of Destination Talk, Pete Terrezza opens up about the pressure, sacrifice, and identity shifts that come with competing at Duke University while trying to grow through one of the toughest sports in the world.

Pete shares stories about the moments that shaped him, the setbacks that forced growth, and the mental battles athletes often carry long before anyone in the crowd ever notices. From the reality of competing at an elite level to the changing...

He went 168-0 in high school… So what happens when you finally lose?

Episode 51 of Destination Talk brings you inside the mindset of Dominick Serrano, former Division I wrestler at Northern Colorado, as he opens up about the reality behind dominance, adversity, and what it truly takes to compete at the highest level.

From an undefeated high school career with 122 pins to facing the toughest competition in college, Dominick breaks down the mental shift from being unbeatable… to being tested like never before.

We dive into:

He tore his ACL. Stayed public. Became a 3x All-American. Most athletes think they know what it takes to reach the top… this conversation exposes the truth. Episode 50 of Destination Talk is a milestone—and this one sets a new standard. CJ Composto takes us inside the reality of becoming and staying elite at the Division 1 level. From the moment everything stopped with a torn ACL, to building himself back into a 3-time All-American, this episode goes beyond highlights and wins. It’s about identity, sacrifice, pressure, and the decisions athletes are making right now that are shaping their future...

Join us on this episode of Destination Talk with Dan Hilt, a standout wrestler from Manalapan High School and Rutgers University, now a celebrated coach at Arthur L. Johnson High School and the Yale Street Wrestling Club. Recently named Region 4 Assistant Coach of the Year, Dan shares his journey from the mat to the sidelines, revealing the lessons that shaped his wrestling career, the mindset it takes to succeed, and the psychology behind coaching athletes to greatness.

In this episode, we dive into:

What does it really take to develop elite athletes — and are today’s systems actually helping… or hurting them?

In this episode of Destination Talk, we sit down with Austin Culp, founder of Culprit Athletics, to dive deep into the world of athlete development, coaching philosophy, and building something that lasts.

Austin shares his journey from starting a facility from the ground up to creating a culture that goes far beyond training. But more importantly, this conversation goes deeper — into mindset, leadership, and the hard truths most athletes, parents, and coaches don’t want to hear.

What does it really take to become a professional athlete in a sport that’s still growing?

In this episode of Destination Talk, we sit down with Luke Barry — a Westfield, New Jersey native, James Madison University graduate, and now a professional athlete with the New York Empire.

Luke takes us through his journey from playing sports growing up in New Jersey to discovering Ultimate Frisbee, developing his game at the collegiate level, and ultimately signing a professional contract.

We go beyond the highlight reel and dive into the realities most people don’t see...

Every coach has a story. Before Brianna Hendricks was guiding athletes at The Academy in Garwood, she was a kid in Colonia, New Jersey chasing a ball, learning hard lessons about confidence, setbacks, and what it really means to compete. In this episode of Destination Talk, Brianna opens up about her path from Colonia High School soccer player to sports performance coach, and how the challenges she faced as an athlete reshaped the way she now leads others. The injuries, the pressure, the moments of doubt — they didn’t end her journey. They became the foundation of her purpose. We t...

What does real athletic development actually look like? In this episode of Destination Talk, we sit down with Chad Coy, master coach at Parisi Speed School and former strongman competitor. Chad brings a powerful perspective from both sides of the industry — as an athlete who has pushed his own limits and as a coach responsible for building long-term success in others. We dive into his journey through strength sports, how those experiences shaped his approach to coaching, and the principles he believes matter most when developing speed, power, and resilience. Chad also shares honest insight into the current state of...

What does it really take to become a Division I football player? In this episode of Destination Talk, we sit down with Sacred Heart University athlete Gianni Principato to unpack the journey from youth sports to competing at the highest level of college athletics. Gianni shares how he got started, the mentors who shaped him, and the moment he realized football could become more than just a game. We dive deep into the recruiting process — the uncertainty, the pressure, and the lessons learned — and why Sacred Heart became the right fit both on the field and in the classroom. Gian...

Episode 43 is LIVE In this episode of Destination Talk, we sit down with Hope Fedun to talk about identity, growth, and learning when it’s time to pivot. Hope shares her journey through athletics, including her background in gymnastics, and how those early lessons in discipline, structure, and mental toughness carried into other areas of her life. We also dive into her creative side and her passion for graphic art, exploring how creativity became an outlet, a form of expression, and a new way to define success. This conversation is about more than sports or art — it’s about trusti...

Join Destination Talk co-host John Poznanski, NCAA All-American wrestler, judo & jiu-jitsu athlete, and cancer survivor, as he shares his journey on the mat, overcoming adversity, and life beyond wrestling. Inspiration, resilience, and lessons for athletes and fans alike!

Episode 41 is a little different. In this episode of Destination Talk, co-host Harry Ambrosino steps into the guest seat on his own podcast to share his story, perspective, and the journey behind both the microphone and the business. Harry dives into his coaching philosophy, why he chose to become a sports performance coach, and the experiences that shaped his approach to athlete development. He also opens up about what it’s really like being a business owner — the challenges, lessons, and mindset required to build something meaningful from the ground up. This conversation also explores: Harry’s coaching style and ho...

Join us on Destination Talk with Chris Shearn, YES Network host covering the Yankees, Nets & WNBA! Hear his journey, career highlights, podcasting experience, and top tips for anyone breaking into sports media. #ChrisShearn #YESNetwork #SportsMedia #WNBA #Yankees #Nets

Welcome back to Destination Talk, where we highlight athletes, coaches, and leaders who shape the culture of sport and mindset. In Episode 39, we sit down with Shane Mallory — NCAA Division II National Finalist, All-American wrestler at East Stroudsburg University, standout from New Providence High School, and current coach with Yale Street Wrestling Club. Shane breaks down his journey from New Jersey wrestling to the national stage, the transition from high school to college, and the mindset required to compete at an elite level. We also dig into coaching, leadership, and how the sport continues to influence his life today. In...

In Episode 38, we sit down with standout collegiate wide receiver and entrepreneur Jacari Carter. From his breakout seasons at Merrimack and UAlbany to launching Prolific Performance, Jacari shares his journey, mindset, and the lessons that shaped him on and off the field. In This Episode: Jacari’s football journey Breakthrough moments and challenges Transferring and adapting Building Prolific Performance What’s next for him Follow Jacari on: Instagram: @mrexcitement_ @prolific.performance Follow Destination Talk: Instagram: @destinationtalk LIKE, COMMENT & SUBSCRIBE for more episodes!

🎙️ Episode 37 | Katie Mathews – Let Them Compete, But Let Them Be Kids In this episode of Destination Talk, we sit down with Katie Mathews — founder of Basecamp For Life (@basecampforlife) and host of The Mother Drive — to unpack one of the biggest challenges in youth sports: how to let your child compete hard while still letting them be a kid. As a mom of a middle-school athlete, Katie shares her perspective on pressure, burnout, and balance. She introduces her Basecamp For Life pillars — Mindset, Movement, Nutrition, and Rest — and explains how families can use them to raise healthy, grounded, and motivated young...

In this episode, we sit down with Donnie DeFilippis, founder of Yale Street Wrestling Club, former Division I wrestler at George Mason and Rutgers, and a passionate coach dedicated to developing the next generation of athletes. Donnie shares his journey from his early days on the mat to founding Yale Street Wrestling Club, the role of parents in youth sports, and the importance of mental toughness. We dive into: His high school and college wrestling career Why he started Yale Street and his long-term vision Recruiting advice for athletes and parents Setbacks, injuries, and lessons learned The role of...

Alejandro “Aldo” Santiago shares his football journey from Woodbridge, NJ to Bishop Ahr High School and St. Anselm College. We discuss his recruiting process, training, and life lessons from playing college football. Perfect for athletes, parents, and coaches looking for insight into football, recruiting, and athlete development.

In this episode, we sit down with Coach Dan Grasso, Head Wrestling Coach at Colonia High School. Coach Grasso shares his journey from athlete to coach, his philosophy on building a winning culture, and the impact of wrestling on shaping student-athletes both on and off the mat. We dive into: His path into coaching and building the Colonia program 🏆 The rise of girls wrestling and its place at Colonia 🤼‍♀️ Developing athletes through training, mindset, and leadership The challenges and rewards of the wrestling season What legacy he hopes to leave for the program and his wrestlers Stay tuned until the end for...

In this episode, we sit down with Anthony Nunez, Head Coach of the New York Empire of the Ultimate Frisbee Association (UFA). Anthony has been part of the Ultimate scene since 1994, starting at Columbia High School in Maplewood, NJ — the birthplace of Ultimate Frisbee. We dive into the origins of the sport, its rapid growth, and what still needs to be done to bring Ultimate into the mainstream. Anthony also shares his journey as a player and coach, his work with youth development through DEVYL and Westfield programs, and how the game has evolved from its grassroots beginnings to th...

In this episode of Destination Talk, we sit down with former Nebraska Track & Field athlete Michael Hoffer. From his standout days at Shawnee Heights High School to competing at the NCAA Division I level, Michael shares his journey through the recruiting process, the challenges of transitioning from high school to college competition, and the injury that tested his resilience both physically and mentally. We dive into: Michael’s early days at Shawnee Heights and how he got into track & field The recruiting process and why he chose Nebraska The jump in competition from high school to NCAA Division I Ov...

🎙️ Destination Talk – Episode 31 | Coach Tommy Farrell: Building a Program with Discipline, Intellect & Grit In this episode of Destination Talk, we sit down with Tommy Farrell, Head Football Coach at Manchester High School in New Jersey and — at the time of his hiring — the youngest head football coach in the state. Coach Farrell shares his journey from playing at Stonehill College to leading his own program at a young age. He breaks down his D.I.G. mentality — Discipline, Intellect, Grit — and how it drives everything from offseason training to game-day leadership. We also dive into: 🏈 His approach to college recruiting & socia...

🎙️ NEW EPISODE – Destination Talk 🏈 Homegrown Leadership with Coach Matt Andzel From Friday night lights to leading the Westfield Blue Devils, Head Coach Matt Andzel shares his journey from player to program leader. We dive into his athletic career, coaching philosophy, the role of training, social media, and the motto that drives his team. Coach Andzel—Westfield’s 13th head coach and first alum to take the reins—also opens up about building culture, growing the girls flag football program, and preparing athletes for life beyond the field. This one’s packed with insight, heart, and a clear vision for what it means to l...

🎙️ Episode 29 – Reflecting on the Journey: Behind the Mic with Poz & Harry Destination Talk with Poz & Harry In this special milestone episode, Poz & Harry sit down to reflect on the first 28 episodes of Destination Talk — the stories, the moments, and the mission that has fueled their passion from day one. From unforgettable interviews with standout athletes to the episodes that challenged and changed them, this behind-the-scenes look reveals how the podcast was built and where it's headed next. Tune in as they share: Their favorite episodes and powerful takeaways Raw behind-the-scenes stories and off-air moments Dream guests they’re still chasing Wha...

In Episode 28 of Destination Talk with Poz & Harry, we sit down with Gene Zannetti, former University of Pennsylvania wrestler and the co-founder of Wrestling Mindset, the leading mindset training program for wrestlers and athletes across the country. Gene dives into his personal journey, the evolution of wrestling, and how Wrestling Mindset is helping athletes develop the mental toughness and confidence needed to thrive in high-pressure situations—on the mat and in life. ✅ Whether you're a competitor, coach, or parent, this episode is packed with valuable insights and practical takeaways. 🔑 What you’ll hear in this episode: Gene’s wrestling career and...

🔥 Episode 27 of Destination Talk is LIVE 🔥 Empowering Girls Through Football | Kelly Hantman | Destination Talk Podcast In Episode 27 of Destination Talk, we sit down with Kelly Hantman, co-founder of the Westfield Girls Flag Football League—a trailblazer in the movement to grow and empower girls through the sport of flag football. From humble beginnings to receiving national recognition from Nike, the New York Jets, and ESPN, Kelly shares her journey of building one of the fastest-growing girls flag football programs in New Jersey. We dive into the league’s impact on young athletes, the community support that made it possible, and what i...

In Episode 26 of Destination Talk, we sit down with Rob Liddell, the Director of Pro & Prospect Development at Goalie Mentors, and current goaltending coach of the Flint Firebirds in the OHL. Rob shares powerful insight into what it takes to develop elite-level goaltenders, his journey through the hockey world, and what young goalies need to know to level up their game. ✅ Scouting insights ✅ Pro development strategies ✅ Advice for aspiring goalies & parents ✅ Real talk on navigating hockey’s competitive landscape Whether you're a goalie, coach, or parent—this episode is packed with value. 📺 Watch now, subscribe, and drop a comment if this episode

🎙️ Episode 25 of Destination Talk is LIVE! | Inside the Mind of Coach Thomas Ford Jr. – University of Idaho Head Football Coach In this milestone episode of Destination Talk, we sit down with Thomas Ford Jr., the Head Football Coach at the University of Idaho, to talk about his football journey, coaching philosophy, and vision for building a championship-caliber program in today’s evolving college football landscape. Coach Ford shares powerful insights on: His early days as a player and what drew him into coaching Career stops that shaped his leadership style Building culture and accountability in a college football program The reali...

🎙️ Episode 24 of Destination Talk is LIVE! This week, we dive deep into the mental side of sports with special guest Nicholas Coco — former college wrestler, coach, and elite mindset coach helping athletes unlock their full potential. 💭 From his own journey on the wrestling mat to coaching the minds of today’s competitors, Nicholas shares powerful insights on mental toughness, performance anxiety, confidence building, and how mindset separates good athletes from great ones. Whether you're an athlete, coach, or parent, this episode is packed with actionable advice and real talk on what it takes to win — from the inside out. 🔑 In This Episode...

🔥 Don’t miss Episode 23 of Destination Talk featuring Eric Mitchell — former college athlete, powerhouse owner of a Parisi Speed School, and creator of the game-changing Tsunami Effect Coaching! 💥 Eric breaks down his elite training secrets that are transforming athletes in the sports performance world. Whether you’re a coach or competitor, this episode is PACKED with next-level tips to help your game, both on and off the field. We also dive into having a positive mindset, and how that helps your overall performance. 👉 Follow Eric on Instagram: @coachericmitchell 👍 Like, Subscribe, and hit the 🔔 so you never miss another episode of Destination Talk...

🎙 Destination Talk Podcast | Episode 22 | Featuring Chad Parks 🔥 Wrestling Mindset | Coaching Wisdom | Faith & Leadership In Episode 22 of Destination Talk, we sit down with Chad Parks — head wrestling coach at Shawnee Heights High School, certified Mindset Coach with Wrestling Mindset, bestselling author of Game Changing Moves, area representative for Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA), and host of the Coach P's Perspective Podcast Coach Parks shares his journey through the sport, how mindset training transforms performance on and off the mat, and how faith and leadership guide his coaching philosophy. Whether you're a wrestler, coach, parent, or fan of the sport, this conversa...

From the banks of the Raritan to the national media stage, Nick Kosko has carved a unique path through the world of sports media. A proud Rutgers University alum, Nick began his journey with a passion for sports and a relentless work ethic that led him to an internship at Sirius XM, working under the legendary Chris "Mad Dog" Russo. From there, he returned to his Rutgers roots—this time behind the mic—becoming the voice of Rutgers Wrestling on the Big Ten+ Network. With his sharp insight and deep knowledge of the sport, Nick became a trusted presence for...

In this episode, we’re joined by Mike DeMarco — former Rutgers University wrestler who later returned to the program as their Strength and Conditioning Coach. 🏋️‍♂️🤼‍♂️ Mike shares his journey from competing on the mat to building champions in the weight room, and how his passion for coaching has evolved. 💥 Today, Mike is focused on helping busy professionals who know what to do but struggle to follow through, providing them with the tools, accountability, and structure to succeed — both physically and mentally. 🔥 Make sure to follow him on Instagram at @mikes_motives for more training tips and motivation! 📲 Tap that 🔔 and don’t miss another powerful episod