Welcome to Carry The Mat where we pursue meaning in life, legacy, and leadership. Join us as we seek to learn some of life’s most difficult yet valuable hard-earned lessons from men and women who have experienced obstacles (and victories) first hand. Striving to serve one another based on our unique God-given abilities; not interested in merely talking about it, but determined to be about it. If that sounds like you, then let’s Carry The Mat together. “Every man dies, but not every man truly lives."
Back by popular demand, we welcome our good buddy, Jarryd Wallace. A father, brother, Oconee County native, Damn Good Dawg, and Team USA Paralympics World Champion, JW discusses his rigorous training regiment as he preps for Paris 2024. As the conversation continues, Jarryd flips the script and directs some questions back to host, Ben Brandenburg. Each have unique perspectives gained from uncommon health journeys. For context purposes, it would also be a great idea to catch our first episode with Jarryd from April of last year. You'll be glad you did!
25 Sept 2023
Carry The Mat ep.9 Mohamed Massaquoi
This week's episode features a conversation with one of the most dynamic and well-rounded individuals I've ever met, Mohamed Massaquoi. Mo Mass recaps his UGA and NFL playing days, but also dives into some personal adversity that has only deepened his faith and character. While we cover a range of topics, there's so much more we long to learn from Mo. As you will learn from our conversation, he is ridiculously smart and introspective; there's something in this episode for everyone.
14 Aug 2023
Carry The Mat ep.8 Cole Taylor-Songwriter
This week we are joined by a familiar face to the Nashville songwriting community, Cole Taylor. Cole has written hits for artists like Luke Bryan, FGL, Jason Aldean, Cole Swindell, to name a few… He currently has the #1 song in America! (You, Me, and Whiskey, Justin Moore / Priscilla Block) A family man and avid golfer, Cole talks about growing up in rural southwest Georgia, his Valdosta State days, and making the leap to Nashville. Talented, but down to earth, we think you’ll enjoy this one.
17 Jul 2023
Carry The Mat ep.7 Jake Sapp-Peach State Lite
On this episode of Carry The Mat, Ben and Daniel sit down with Jake Sapp from Peach State Lite, “The Unofficial Beer of Georgia“. Jake walks us through his vision for bringing people from all walks of life together over a cold beer as well as a range of other topics. From working at his grandad’s body shop to road tripping out West, Jake is most certainly a guy you would want to have a beer with. So in the spirit of summer, crack open a cold PSL and join us!
29 May 2023
Carry The Mat ep.6 Russ and Shelley Tanner
This episode features, Russ and Shelley Tanner. Shelley serves as Executive Director of Hope 139. Hope 139 is a nonprofit that aims to strengthen the community by empowering its most vulnerable members, at-risk mothers and their children, and providing them the tools they need to succeed. Shelley shares her vision for Hope 139, then Russ joins to talk Georgia Football (where he was a part of two SEC titles), growing up in Wrightsville, local, barbecue, and more. The couple stays busy, but it’s easy to tell that faith and family are the top priorities in the Tanner house.
15 May 2023
Carry The Mat ep.5 Jordan Price
This week we are joined by Director of Operations at Gibbs Capital, Jordan Price. Jordan was brought on board to help Wire Park become a leading destination for community and culture in the area. For those that don’t know, Wire Park is a work-live-play concept erected from an old wire manufacturing plant just outside of downtown Watkinsville. Jordan shares with us information on the current set up, as well as plans for the future. We also have some fun talking about underrated “hidden gems” within the local food scene.
1 May 2023
Carry The Mat ep.4 Brandon Boykin
Daniel and Ben sit down with Brandon Boykin. Brandon is a former standout defensive back for the University of Georgia football team. Following his playing days at UGA, Brandon was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League. It did not take Brandon long to continue his stellar play, recording a season high interceptions in only his 2nd season in the league. Brandon spent the majority of his career in with the Eagles, but also played for the Pittsburgh Steelers. Brandon takes us through his drive to be the best version of himself on the field and in life after football.
17 Apr 2023
Carry The Mat ep.3 Jarryd Wallace
In episode three, BB and Daniel sit down with Team USA Paralympian sprints World Champion, Jarryd Wallace. Jarryd talks about growing up in Athens, being raised by athletic parents, competing abroad, and more. Avery fitting guest for Carry The Mat, Jarryd talks in depth about how he has tackled adversity that struck his senior year of high school. A story of grit and perseverance, there's a lot we can all learn from Jarryd.
10 Apr 2023
Carry The Mat ep.2 Derek Chitwood
In episode two, BB and Daniel sit down with family man and founder of Peach State Pride and Empire South, Derek Chitwood. When it comes to various topics across Georgia, Derek is a resident expert. From glory days at Georgia College watching country music artists well before their big break to now running a successful small business, Derek breaks it down with a down-home demeanor and likability that is unmatched. We also talk our favorite towns in the great state of Georgia.
3 Apr 2023
Carry The Mat ep.1 Brook Whitmire
In the first episode of Carry The Mat, Ben and Daniel sit down with Sanford Stadium PA announcer, Brook Whitmire. As you’ll learn, calling the Dawgs is just one of the many hats he wears. A husband, father, Damn Good Dawg, gentleman, mentor, storyteller, etc., Brook takes listeners through a crash course on how add value and grow where you’re planted. Wise men seek wise counsel and it’s only fitting that he’s our very first guest.
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