The Couch GM Podcast

In this in-depth interview, we sit down with Brad to break down how Washington State Cougars is navigating the modern college football landscape: the transfer portal, NIL, retention vs. recruiting, and building a physically tough, explosive roster built to compete in the new Pac-12. We dive into: -How the Cougs evaluate the large amount of players in the transfer portal -Why retention is just as, if not more important, than recruiting via the portal -The vision for Washington State as a Pac-12 flag bearer -The growing rivalry between Washington State and Boise State Broncos -How NIL, culture, and relationships intersect in today’s game Brad also breaks down the “Elite Edge” philosophy — energy, details, grit, and emotional consistency — and explains how Washington State is building a sustainable winning culture despite massive changes in college football. If you’re a Coug fan, a college football junkie, or someone who wants to understand how programs are actually built in the portal era, this is a must-watch. 👉 Like, subscribe, and comment: Can Washington State win the Pac-12 and make a playoff run? 👉 Go Cougs. Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://lenderconnorwebb.com My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org

WSU is getting after it in the transfer portal with 10 guys officially announced as of this livestream and who knows how many more to come. A dual threat QB, speedy WR, and loads of defensive reinforcements are currently moving their belongings to Pullman for the 2026 season. What holes are left to fill? *Subscribe to Cougfan.com for all things WSU Athletics!* Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4997128208384000

In the era of nonstop movement and NIL-driven decisions, Washington State Cougars football is finding ways to retain its core — and senior linebacker Keith Brown is right at the center of it. In this episode, Keith breaks down how WSU is navigating the transfer portal, what conversations are actually happening inside the locker room, and the pitch he makes to teammates when other programs come calling. From leadership and culture to trust, development, and belief in Pullman, this is an honest, player-led look at why some guys choose to stay when leaving is easier than ever. If you’re a Coug fan — or just curious how programs are surviving the portal era — this is a must-listen. 👇 Topics covered: -How WSU approaches player retention in the transfer portal era -Keith Brown’s leadership role within the program -What players really care about when deciding to stay or leave -Culture vs. money in today’s college football landscape -Why certain WSU players chose not to enter the portal 🎧 Available on YouTube & podcast platforms 📺 Subscribe for more WSU football conversations, player interviews, and behind-the-scenes insight Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://lenderconnorwebb.com My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org 0:00- Discussion around WSU's retention in the portal 28:21- Keith Brown joins

We are joined today by WSU Vice Chair of the Board of Regents Enrique Cerna to discuss the university's view on athletics moving forward. Braden Clark also joins us to talk through the upcoming WSU vs Utah State matchup in the Famous Idaho Potato Bowl. *Subscribe to Cougfan.com for all things WSU Athletics!* Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org 0:00- Intro 1:25- Reactions to Kirby Moore introduction 13:48- WSU vs Utah State Preview 31:43- WSU Regent Enrique Cerna

Kirby Moore is set to become WSU's 36th full time head coach! First team meeting with Kirby is set for Monday the 15th and we will be going live again that evening. *Subscribe to Cougfan.com for all things WSU Athletics!* Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4997128208384000

Jimmy Rogers is one and done at WSU as he takes the head job at Iowa State. Utter disbelief. *Subscribe to Cougfan.com for all things WSU Athletics!* Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4997128208384000

That is right- Mkristo Bruce will be joining us from the sky to talk through the Cougs' end of the regular season and where they may be flying for bowl season! *Subscribe to Cougfan.com for all things WSU Athletics!* Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4997128208384000

After a loss @ JMU this weekend, WSU will be looking to reach bowl eligibility with a win at home on Senior Day vs 2-9 Oregon State. Joined by Mkristo Bruce & Ryan Harlan (@Ryan_Harlan7) *Subscribe to Cougfan.com for all things WSU Athletics!* Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org

WSU is seeking its first bowl eligibility under Jimmy Rogers while JMU is looking to keep its CFP dreams alive as the Cougs head out east to Harrisonburg, VA in the first ever matchup between these two universities. Joined by Jack Fitzpatrick of JMU Sports News (https://jmusportsnews.com), Mkristo Bruce, and Adam Lewis. *Subscribe to Cougfan.com for all things WSU Athletics!* Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org 0:00- Intro/ Connor & Dylan commentary 19:28- Mkristo Bruce 25:13- Adam Lewis 59:04- JMU's Jack Fitzpatrick

In this episode we talk through WSU's firing of Athletic Director Anne McCoy and the PAC-12's new partnership with USA Sports. Weekly livestream presented by Cougfan.com covering all things WSU athletics. Subscribe to Cougfan.com today! Help the cause- join the 1890 club: https://cougarcollective.org My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb Mortgage Loan Advisor, NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org Want to create live streams like this? Check out StreamYard: https://streamyard.com/pal/d/4997128208384000

WSU suffered a frustrating loss to the Oregon State Beavers last week on the road and will look to rebound vs a 5-4 Louisiana Tech team that has not fared well on the road. We discuss these games as well as reports of $12M in upgrades planned for Martin Stadium as soon as next season, while at the same time President Betsy Cantwell states WSU's NIL is LAST in football among 'new Pac-12' universities. Joined by Ben Carlisle of Bleed Tech Blue- https://www.on3.com/sites/bleed-tech-blue/news/cumbie-nelson-and-foster-preview-louisiana-techs-road-matchup-at-washington-state/ Also joined by Mkristo Bruce. Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org 0:00- Loss to Oregon State 7:48- Injury updates 9:30- WSU NIL concerns 17:49- $12M in stadium upgrades? 25:21- LA Tech preview 30:46- WSU basketball38:39- LA Tech's Ben Carlisle joins 59:54- Mkristo Bruce joins

Washington State visits Oregon State for part I of a Cougs/Beavs November doubleheader — nationally televised on CBS (4:30pm). Ryan Clarke of The Oregonian joined us to break down a tumultuous two months not only for Beaver football, but also OSU’s athletic department regarding a shaky NIL partnership. Ryan gives his score prediction and sheds light on what OSU might be looking for in their next head coach. Ed Orgeron reportedly “would take job if offered.” Mkristo Bruce breaks down his thoughts on WSU’s defensive performance against Toledo, WSU bowl projections and a parent corner (intimidating dad at Homecoming) edition. Defensive note: take away two 59-point performances from North Texas and Washington, WSU has only given up 79 points against their six other opponents (13.1 ppg). The combined record of those six opponents currently: 24:14. Include UW and UNT: 37-17. Purchase a copy of Luke Falk's Mind Strength Playbook here- https://a.co/d/akM8GMw *Subscribe to CougFan.com for all things WSU Athletics!* Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org 0:00- Opening thoughts on win vs Toledo 17:11 WSU basketball 21:55- Mkristo Bruce joins 40:00- Ryan Clarke Joins to talk OSU

WSU surprised the nation last week when they took #4 Ole Miss down to the wire in Oxford, losing 24-21. This week they head back east to face off with #18 Virginia in (likely) WSU's final ranked matchup of the year as they look for a statement win.Joined by Jacquie Franciulli of Wahoos 247- https://247sports.com/college/virginia/article/watch-virginia-coordinators-des-kitchings-john-rudzinski-talk-ahead-of-washington-state-257043137/Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgmRead The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.aiMy Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org0:00- Mariners talk 3:44- Ole Miss thoughts 38:15- Jacquie joins the show to discuss Virginia matchup

The Mariners are on the doorstep of Mariners history, up 2-0 in the ALCS for the franchise's first time, heading back to Seattle. Joined by Mariners broadcaster Gary Hill Jr. to talk through the first 2 games of this series as well as the incredible ALDS. Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org

WSU heads into SEC country for the first time since 2013 in a first time matchup against Lane Kiffin and the #4 ranked Ole Miss Rebels. We are joined by Mkristo Bruce as well as @LockedOnOleMiss host Steven Willis to hear their thoughts and opinions. Go listen to the @LockedOnOleMiss episode to hear more. *Subscribe to CougFan.com for all things WSU Athletics!* Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org 0:00- Intro 8:07- Mkristo Bruce 21:10- Steven Willis of @LockedOnOleMiss ​

Previewing the Seattle Mariners 2025 Postseason with Mariners radio broadcaster Gary Hill Jr. Use code "COUCHGM-15" at Baseballism for 15% off your order- https://www.baseballism.com Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org

Previewing 2-2 WSU's week 5 matchup @ 1-2 Colorado State this Saturday in Fort Collins, joined by Kevin Lytle of the Coloradoan. Give Kevin's latest CSU article a read here- https://www.coloradoan.com/story/sports/csu/football/2025/09/25/colorado-state-football-mailbag-discussing-2025-rams-team/86331707007/?gnt-cfr=1&gca-cat=p&gca-uir=true&gca-epti=z11----p119750c119750e009100v11xx77o11----b0039xxd003965&gca-ft=187&gca-ds=sophi *Subscribe to Cougfan.com for all things WSU athletics!* Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org

The Mariners are looking to clinch a playoff spot this week for just the 2nd time over the past 24 years, and win their division for the first time since 2001. This team is HOT and ready to make a run. Joined by Gavin and Chad of @upwestsports Gear up with Baseballism here- https://www.baseballism.com/ use code "COUCHGM-15" for 15% off your order! My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org

WSU legend and PAC-12 all-time leading passer Luke Falk joins the show to discuss the launch of his new book “The Mind Strength Playbook”, his optimism in WSU Athletics moving forward, and the Apple Cup. Pre-order The Mind Strength Playbook here- https://a.co/d/2mx64u0 *Subscribe to CougFan.com for all things WSU Athletics!* Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org

The Cougs are 2-0! Washington State thumped San Diego State 36–13 in Pullman—and somehow it still felt like an ugly blowout. We break down our opinions, why this defense and tackling are for real, and how Jaxon Potter (5 TD, 0 INT on the year) handled start No. 2. Then we look ahead to a sneaky-tricky trip to North Texas: 95° heat, full-sun visitor sideline at DATCU Stadium, and an air-raid QB with a wild walk-on story highlighted by North Texas beat writer Brett Vito (Denton Record-Chronicle): https://dentonrc.com/sports/colleges/mean_green/ This episode is brought to you by CougFan.com — the place for premium WSU coverage. Go subscribe for breaking news and insider notes. Be part of the show 📞 Leave us a voicemail: 503-886-6044 📧 Send us an email: thecouchgmpnw@gmail.com Drop hot takes, questions, or game-day reactions—we’ll feature the best ones. Buying, selling, or refinancing in WA/OR/CA/ID/AZ? Connor & Mkristo are licensed lenders—reach out and keep it in the Coug community. Connect with Connor/ The Couch GM- https://form.jotform.com/242987990120161 My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ My equipment list- https://www.amazon.com/shop/thecouchgm Read The Couch GM's Blog- https://thecouchgm.videotoblog.ai My Mortgage Lending website- https://www.envoymortgage.com/connor-webb/ Livestream across channels using StreamYard- https://streamyard.com/?fpr=connor-35 Connor Webb- Mortgage Loan Originator NMLS #1529504 Envoy Mortgage NMLS #6666 www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org