Identity Sports

In this episode of the Identity Sports Podcast, we’re joined by professional golfer Carson Herron, a rising talent and new member of the Asian Tour. Carson reflects on his journey from competing for the New Mexico Lobos to winning the 2024 Minnesota State Open and qualifying for his first PGA Tour event in 2025. Growing up with a father who played on the PGA Tour, Carson shares how his parents never pressured him to perform—but how he placed that pressure on himself in pursuit of excellence.That internal pressure eventually led Carson to a deeper reckoning off the course. Despite playing good golf, he found himself unsatisfied, weighed down by anxiety and expectations. Through that struggle, Carson gave his life to Jesus, learning to lay his worries in God’s hands. He opens up about how reading the Bible, getting plugged into church, and intentionally growing his faith transformed not only his perspective on golf, but on life. Today, Carson plays with a renewed sense of patience, freedom, and identity—rooted not in results, but in faith.

This week on the Identity Sports Podcast, we’re joined by Paul Tesori, a 23-time PGA Tour winner as a caddie, for a powerful conversation about faith, identity, and purpose.He opens up about misplaced identity, explaining how idols like success and money never satisfy: “if you catch them, they won’t sustain you; if you don’t catch them, they won’t forgive you”. Paul reflects on drifting from his faith in college, falling into darkness after a car accident caused chronic pain and anxiety, and how hearing John Smoltz speak about his faith drew him back to church.Even after reaching the top of the golf world with Vijay Singh, Paul admits fame and money pulled him away from God again. By 2010, deep sadness led him to fully surrender his life to Christ. He reminds us that following Jesus doesn’t put us in handcuffs, but sets us free.Paul shares how in 2011 he turned down chances to caddie for two top-10 players in the world to join Webb Simpson, who was ranked #213 at the time. As a new follower of Christ, Paul chose faith over world golf rankings, wanting to walk alongside a boss who shared his beliefs, leading to an incredible run of success and finding true purpose.Check out the Tesori Family Foundation, rooted in the mission of "achieving great things through God by lending a helping hand, providing hope and healing hearts for children”.

In this episode of the Identity Sports Podcast, we’re joined by Robin Rosado, former University of South Carolina golfer, mini-tour player, and now a PGA & LPGA mental performance coach, whose journey through frustration, comparison, and pressure ultimately led to purpose.Robin opens up about his early battles in junior golf, constantly comparing himself to others and struggling to translate great range sessions into performance on the course. That disconnect—and a pivotal moment experiencing the yips during a Valspar Championship qualifier—pushed him to pursue discomfort and growth. Through that journey, he was introduced to renowned sports psychologist Dr. Bob Rotella, whose insights became a turning point not only for Robin’s game, but for his life.Now, more than 15 years later, Robin shares the mental frameworks he teaches golfers today, challenging the pursuit of perfection, reshaping the way we speak about our shots, and learning to live forward rather than dwelling on mistakes. He unpacks his simple but powerful process: “Accept, give yourself grace, and hit erase.” At the core of it all is this truth: your identity is not found in your bad shots or what didn’t go well, but in Christ.Robin also dives into the power of words and how self-talk shapes both our mindset and our performance. Through a biblical lens, he connects mental performance to stewardship—preparing well, building healthy habits, and pursuing excellence in a way that ultimately glorifies God.Additionally, Robin shares the heart behind his organization, Before the Links, a mission-driven business designed to help talented young golfers with limited resources gain exposure and access to recruitment opportunities. His vision is to build up the next generation—not just as athletes, but as leaders who will make an impact far beyond the game.This episode is a powerful reminder that growth happens in discomfort, identity is rooted deeper than performance, and our habits—on and off the course—matter.

Newly retired LPGA Tour professional and now mom, Emma Talley, joins the Identity Sports Podcast for a powerful conversation on identity, fulfillment, and faith beyond the scorecard.Emma reflects on the role relationships and mentorship played throughout every stage of her journey—from junior golf and college to life on the LPGA Tour. She opens up about winning the 2013 U.S. Women’s Amateur, and the realization that the joy she expected from such a massive achievement lasted only a couple minutes. That moment began to reveal a deeper truth: the fulfillment we long for can’t be found in accomplishments.In this episode, Emma shares where she ultimately found true contentment—in God’s Word, biblical community, and walking closely with Christ, including participating in Bible studies while on Tour. She explains her love for being a friend to her competitors and reflecting Christ through her actions. By focusing on controlling what you can control, Emma learned how to find joy even in hardship.Emma also opens up about her transition from professional golf to motherhood, and how she now prioritizes time with the Lord amid the beautiful chaos of being a mom. This conversation is a reminder that our identity is not in what we do—but in who we belong to.

The Identity Sports Podcast celebrates episode 50 with an exciting and impactful episode with Jordan Brown, a former Fresno State football walk-on whose journey is defined by faith, perseverance, and a deep re-centering of identity. Jordan didn’t arrive at Fresno State as a recruited athlete—he came as a student, quietly training on his own during his first year with the hope of one day earning a spot on the football team.Growing up in the church, Jordan had a foundation of faith, but when he entered college, he found himself drifting from the Lord. For much of his life, church had been the primary place where spiritual growth happened, and without it, his faith stalled. Everything began to change when he got involved with the football program and Fellowship of Christian Athletes. Through community and reading scripture on his own and with others, Jordan began to experience real spiritual growth and saw God opening his eyes to a greater purpose—one rooted in glorifying Him.Jordan shares how he came to understand that God and football are not separate parts of life, but deeply connected. As the Lord worked in his heart, Jordan learned that his identity is not defined by performance, playing time, or outcomes on the field, but by who he is in Christ. He dives into the importance of being in the Word, how Scripture feeds and sustains the soul, and why contentment in Christ is possible in every circumstance—whether chasing a dream, waiting patiently, or walking through a season of refinement.This episode is an honest and encouraging reminder that your value doesn’t rise and fall with success—and that when your identity is rooted in Christ, every season has purpose.

In this episode, Zach Vogel is joined by guest cohost and Lipscomb University Woman’s golf coach, Shannon O’Brien. The two sit down with Brooke Riley, assistant women’s golf coach at Stanford University, to talk about faith, identity, and competing with freedom.While faith was present early on, God often sat on the back burner, and Brooke’s identity became rooted in being a “Christian athlete” rather than fully walking with Christ.Everything began to shift during her freshman year of college. After not making the starting lineup her first semester, her identity was stripped away, exposing how much she depended on performance and affirmation. Through discipleship and getting into the Word, Brooke realized what was missing in her relationship with the Lord. By the end of January of her freshman year, she fully surrendered her life to Christ.Now as a coach, Brooke shares how she lives out her faith through the way she loves and leads her players, and how to compete from a place of being loved rather than defined by performance. We also talk about navigating constant evaluation, freedom in Christ, and how rest itself is an act of worship.This episode is a powerful reminder that we can pursue excellence, compete to win, and remain fully Christ-centered.

Gary Bender — legendary sportscaster, former voice of the Phoenix Suns and voice behind countless iconic NFL, NBA, MLB and NCAA games — joins us on th Identity Sports Podcast to reflect on his storied career, faith, and what it truly means to call the game.In this episode, Gary shares: • 📺 His early days broadcasting games from a tractor on his family’s farm in Ulysses, Kansas • 🏀 His time at CBS Sports calling March Madness—including the legendary 1982-84 Final Fours and a front-row seat to Michael Jordan’s first championship shot • 🏟️ Transition to ABC Sports, TNT, and eventually 18 years as the voice of the Phoenix Suns — along with behind-the-scenes stories from decades in professional sports broadcasting • 🎙️ His philosophy on broadcasting: preparation, respect for the athlete, the power of storytelling — and being “blessed” to do what he loved every day Plus, check out his new book "Beyond the Call" available on Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Beyond-Call-Gary-Bender/dp/B0FLWTF2TDFollow our socials to stay connected:Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/identitysports_official/Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/identitysportsofficial/TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@identitysportsSubscribe ➤ Never miss an episode — hit that subscribe button & turn on notifications!#GaryBender #SportsBroadcasting #PhoenixSuns #NBA #NFL #CBSSports #MarchMadness #BehindTheMic #Podcast

Have you ever been challenged to stand up and speak the truth? In this episode of the Identity Sports Podcast, former SMU and now professional golfer Lauren Miller joins the show to share about such a time as this in her own life. She opens up about a pivotal moment in her faith and career when she competed and lost against a transgender golfer, confronting her with the challenge of standing up for what is right. Tune in to hear the support she experienced and what she saw the Lord doing all along.

In this episode of the Identity Sports Podcast, Pittsburgh Penguins prospect Aaron Huglen and his wife Madelynn share their story of getting married during their freshman year of college, growing together through the ups and downs of college and pro sports, and learning to stay rooted in faith and community through it all.🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel for more athlete stories of faith, resilience, and identity in Christ.📌 Learn more about Identity Sports: identitysports.com

Raised in a Christian home, Kiara Locklear once lived in two separate worlds: her faith and her soccer career. But through her journey with the Charlotte Eagles, a bold transfer to Lipscomb University, and the leap into professional soccer, she’s learned what it truly means to live out your faith in sport.In this episode, Kiara shares how she keeps her identity grounded amid success, hears God’s voice in moments of transition, and lives out the words of Isaiah 6:8—“Here I am. Send me.”🎙️ Tune in for practical wisdom on integrating faith and competition, spiritual habits for athletes, and encouragement for anyone learning to trust God’s plan beyond their own.

What happens when both teams pray to win?In this thought-provoking episode, Dr. Paul Putz — Director of the Faith & Sports Institute at Baylor’s Truett Seminary and author of The Spirit of the Game: American Christianity and Big-Time Sports — joins us to explore some of the most complex questions in sports and faith.We dig into the tension between competition and Christianity:How should athletes actually pray before a game?Is competition biblical — or have we confused it with pride and performance?Should Christians even care about winning?Dr. Putz brings incredible perspective as a historian, former athlete, and theologian who’s spent years studying how faith has been woven into the fabric of American sports. His insights challenge us to rethink what it means to play and to worship in a way that truly honors God.📘 Grab Paul’s new book, The Spirit of the Game: American Christianity and Big-Time Sports, available now.🎧 Listen now to learn how athletes can compete with purpose, pray with perspective, and glorify God through the game.

When everyone else says no, God’s yes changes everything. 🎾 In this episode of the Identity Sports Podcast, Head Racquet Sports Professional Michael Munguia shares his journey of faith, tennis, and perseverance.From growing up in a small California town to playing collegiate tennis at Arizona Christian University—and later coaching at Eastern Illinois and ACU—Michael has seen both doors closed and doors opened. Along the way, he discovered that his true identity isn’t in wins, losses, or coaching titles, but in the God who calls him His own.Michael’s story is one of resilience, purpose, and trusting God’s bigger plan when life says “no.” Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or simply someone navigating life’s challenges, this conversation will encourage you to keep pursuing God’s “yes” over the world’s “no.”👉 Don’t forget to subscribe to the Identity Sports Podcast for more stories of athletes who are finding their identity in Christ beyond the game.

🎙️ In this episode of the Identity Sports Podcast, we sit down with Bobbi Stricker — professional golfer, daughter of 12x PGA Tour winner Steve Stricker, and a former standout at the University of Wisconsin.At just 27 years old, Bobbi’s golf journey has been anything but ordinary. From not playing competitive golf until after high school, to competing for the Wisconsin Badgers where she earned multiple Academic All-Big Ten honors, to joining the Epson Tour in 2022, her story is one of perseverance and a strong faith.We dive into:- Growing up in a golf family and finding her family on the course- Her rise through college golf and the transition to the professional stage- Being bold in sharing our faith- Her Good Lion Golf partnership, featuring a crown symbol with deep personal meaning- How her identity in Christ shapes her life on and off the course🔔 Don’t forget to subscribe to the channel for more athlete stories of faith, resilience, and identity in Christ.📌 Learn more about Identity Sports: identitysports.com#BobbiStricker #GolfPodcast #IdentitySports #EpsonTour #FaithAndSports

In this episode of the Identity Sports Podcast, longtime MLB shortstop and 2X Gold Glove winner Nick Ahmed opens up about his journey of faith, identity, and life beyond baseball. Nick reflects on his career in the big leagues, his transition into retirement, and the lessons he’s learned about finding purpose that goes deeper than stats or performance. He also shares the heart behind 7Pillar, the platform he co-founded with his brother Mike, which equips athletes with tools for complete development—on the field and in life. From identity and mindset to relationships, fitness, and recovery, Nick explains how the 7Pillar framework is helping athletes build unshakable foundations and unlock their God-given potential.🎙️ Subscribe for more stories of faith in sports

Today on the Identity Sports Podcast, we sit down with former college golfer Cooper Hayes—a young leader with a powerful story of faith, struggle, and boldness. From accepting Christ in first grade to battling religious OCD during COVID, Cooper’s journey shows how God meets us in the middle of our mess and turns it into growth.Hear how Cooper learned to place his identity in Christ instead of performance, stepped into leadership on his golf team, and helped lead teammates to faith. Plus, he shares his favorite Scripture and what legacy he hopes to leave behind.🎙️ Subscribe for more stories of faith in sports

Los Angeles Angels top prospect Caden Dana is climbing fast—but he’s not building his identity on a stat line. In this episode, Caden shares how his faith moved from routine to real, why Christ—not performance—grounds him, and the habits that keep him centered as he rises through pro baseball.In this conversation, you’ll hear:Caden’s rapid journey from New Jersey to the big leagues—and what that first call-up felt likeHow his faith became a priority in pro ballThe role Godly teammates and community play in keeping him anchoredWhy he prays during the national anthem and the rhythms that shape his spiritual lifeAdvice for young athletesIf this episode encouraged you, subscribe, leave a review, and share it with an athlete who needs the reminder that identity in Christ is unshakable.Follow us on Instagram @IdentitySports_official for more stories like this.

Cade York was living the dream—national champion at LSU, drafted by the Cleveland Browns, and making kicks in front of millions. But behind the spotlight, Cade was missing something far greater than anything success could offer.In this powerful episode of the Identity Sports Podcast, Cade shares his story of chasing success but finding emptiness… until everything changed in a quiet hotel room in New York. From the pressure of performing on the biggest stages to the peace he found through full surrender to Jesus, Cade opens up about:✅ The weight of expectations as an NFL kicker✅ His breaking point and moment of surrenderIf you’re an athlete, coach, or fan wondering what happens when the lights fade—this one’s for you.🔔 Don’t forget to like, subscribe, and share this episode with someone who needs encouragement today.📲 Follow us on Instagram: @identitysports_official🌐 Learn more: www.identitysports.com#CadeYork #IdentityInChrist #FaithInSports #LSUFootball #NFL #ChristianAthletes #IdentitySportsPodcast

Tracy Hanson is a former LPGA Tour pro, a collegiate All-American, and now an author—but her most powerful story isn’t about winning on the course. In this episode, Tracy opens up about the pressure to perform, the hidden trauma she carried throughout her career, and the transformative moment she began to find freedom in Christ. From the heights of professional golf to the depths of personal pain, Tracy shares how God met her in the middle of her brokenness and gave her a new identity rooted in truth, not performance.If you’ve ever struggled with shame, expectations, or wondering if you’re truly enough—this conversation is for you.📘 Tracy’s new book, Finding My Course: A Professional Athlete’s Journey Through Pain to Purpose, is available now on Amazon:Buy the book here—🎧 Subscribe and listen on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.📲 Follow us on Instagram @identitysportspodcast

In this episode of the Identity Sports Podcast, we sit down with Toby Bishop—2023 NCAA Men’s Golf National Champion, former Florida Gator, and now a student-athlete at Lipscomb University.Born in England, raised in Dubai, and recruited to play college golf in America on a full scholarship, Toby had everything a young golfer dreams of: big wins, big programs, even flashy NIL offers. But beneath the surface, his identity was wrapped in performance—and it was crumbling.Toby shares:- Why winning the SEC and NCAA titles didn’t satisfy- The pressure of being one of only two freshmen ever offered a full ride- His struggle with faith that was more of a label than a lifestyle- How God used rejection from Notre Dame to reroute his story- How Lipscomb became his true home—and where he finally found peace.🎙️ This story is about surrender, patience, and discovering that you're more than your stats.💬 If you’ve ever felt the pressure to prove your worth through performance, this conversation is for you.👍 Like, comment, and subscribe to hear more powerful testimonies from athletes who found purpose beyond the game.🔔 Subscribe for more stories from athletes who’ve found identity beyond the sport.📲 Follow us on Instagram: @identitysports_official📧 Want to share your story or connect? Visit: www.identitysports.com#FaithAndSports #ChristianAthlete #tobybishop #golf #christianpodcasts #identityinchrist #sportspodcasts #collegegolf

🎙️ New Podcast Episode: Jacksonville Jaguars Kicker Cam LittleWhat does it mean to be where your feet are?In this episode, Jaguars kicker Cam Little talks about learning to be fully present—on the field, in the locker room, and in life. He shares how staying grounded in the moment and intentionally seeking community has helped him grow in his faith, no matter where football has taken him.It’s a conversation about purpose, presence, and finding your people wherever God plants you.Listen now—this one’s packed with wisdom for anyone navigating change or chasing a calling.🔔 Subscribe for more stories from athletes who’ve found identity beyond the sport.📲 Follow us on Instagram: @identitysports_official📧 Want to share your story or connect? Visit: www.identitysports.com#FaithAndSports #ChristianAthlete #camlittle #football #christianpodcasts #identityinchrist #sportspodcasts #jacksonvillejaguars