TTalk: Beyond the Field

About TTalk: Beyond the Field

TTalk: Beyond the Field serves as a platform to showcase the incredible talent, dedication, and perseverance that our Tulane student-athletes possess. TTalk goes beyond the confines of conventional sports podcasts. Through the ancient are of storytelling, we are developing historical records of our experiences as student-athletes. We celebrate the achievements of our athletes, both on and off the field. Together, we uplift one another, inspire future generations, and create a legacy that transcends time. Join us, as we celebrate the indomitable spirit of New Orleans and the transformative power of Tulane University. The TClub is an affinity group, of the Tulane Alumni Association, made up of alumni who are former student-athletes.

Publisher

Tulane TClub

Category

education · sports

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

12 Mar 2024

Latest episode

2 Aug 2024

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   2 Aug 2024

   TTalk with Melvin Adams

   From his early years as a military brat moving from Japan to various states, to the cultural shock of settling in Jennings, Louisiana, Melvin Adams a standout running back (Top 5 National Recruit) shares his story. The impact of his family and their unwavering support shines through as Melvin reflects on his high school years, excelling in multiple sports and nurturing his athletic talent. Experience the thrill of his intense recruitment process with top-tier football schools like Texas, UCLA, and LSU vying for his signature. Despite initially committing to Texas, Melvin's strong bond with a teammate and an unforgettable visit to Tulane led him to switch his commitment at the last moment. Life after football posed new challenges for Melvin, and he candidly discusses the transition from athlete to post-college life. The importance of academic commitment, the emotional toll of injuries, and the support systems that helped him persevere are all part of his journey. Melvin's story comes full circle as he returns to complete his degree, spurred on by the encouragement of his wife and a supportive retiring dean. Don’t miss this inspiring episode, and make sure to SUBSCRIBE for more engaging conversations. (00:00) Melvin Adams (09:05) College Recruiting and Commitment to Tulane (25:09) Life After College Football (38:32) Legacy

2. 

   12 Jul 2024

   TTalk with John Arthurs

   Join us for an engaging episode of TTalk, where Carmen Jones and Harold Sylvester sit down with the remarkable John Arthurs, a celebrated Tulane athlete and former professional basketball player. We explore John's early years in New Orleans, where he developed his athletic prowess at Wisner Playground. John reminisces about his time at De La Salle High School, where he not only excelled in sports but also served as student body president. The conversation then shifts to his impactful collegiate career at Tulane, discussing the significance of his athletic scholarship and the meaningful relationships he formed during his time there. John shares vivid recollections of intense games, including memorable matches against LSU and UCLA, and the personal stories that shaped his athletic journey. We also touch on the transitional phase from college to the professional leagues, offering a rare glimpse into John's experiences with the Milwaukee Bucks, Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, Oscar Robertson and the camaraderie among players during the early days of the NBA. Finally, we delve into John's life after professional sports, highlighting his successful career in banking and commercial real estate, and his enduring connection to Tulane University and New Orleans. As we wrap up, we share heartfelt memories and the joy of reconnecting with old friends, showcasing the deep bonds and shared experiences that continue to shape our lives. Don't miss this inspiring episode filled with rich stories and reflections on a life well-lived both on and off the court. 00:01) Intro (09:10) Basketball Memories Similar Upbringing, Different Realities (17:22) Tulane Basketball Memorable Senior Year Basketball Wins (26:08) Historic UCLA Matchup (33:28) Transition From College to Pros Rooming With Alcindor (45:39) Post-Professional Life Reflections (51:53) College Athletics' Experience and Relationships (01:02:21) Supporting Student-Athletes (01:09:13 ) Summer Baseball League With Stephen Martin (01:14:36) John and Harold Reminisce

3. 

   5 Jul 2024

   TTalk with Mashandra Hall

   Imagine growing up with a life filled with ballet, gymnastics, and piano lessons, only to discover your true calling is the competitive world of track and basketball. That's the story of Mashandra Hall a dynamic Tulane Hall of Famer, who joins us to share her incredible journey from Memphis to collegiate sports stardom. She tackles the contentious issue of youth sports specialization, leveraging both personal anecdotes and professional insights to weigh the pros and cons. Join us for an inspiring conversation that underscores the importance of following one's dreams, the impact of educators, the legacy of strict fun, and the lasting power of kindness. (00:00) Meshandra Hall Introduction (05:20) Youth Sports Specialization (20:05) Transition to College Athletics Experience" (31:52) Navigating Freshman Year in College Sports (41:06) Track vs. Basketball (49:52) Athlete's Struggle With Transition and Injury (54:59) Former Athlete Reflects on Coaching Track (58:40) Career Transition and Academic Success (01:03:18) Life Reflections and Memorable Moments (01:14:01) Inspiring Young People Through Kindness Hall, was a two-sport athlete for the Green Wave from 1989-1994, and later served as a track & field assistant coach. As a standout on the Tulane women's track and field team, Hall was a two-time Metro Conference Track & Field Most Valuable Player in 1993 and 1994, the Tulane Female Athlete of the Year in 1993 and 1994 and ranked No. 7 in the nation among United States women in the long jump. She holds the Tulane record in the long jump, ranks fourth all time in the 400-meter dash and was the Green Wave's three-time MVP of running and field events (1992, 1993 and 1994). When she wasn't performing on the track, Hall was a defensive standout for the TU women's basketball team from 1989-91. She was voted defensive MVP in 1989-90 and played her final hoops season in 1990-91. In the classroom, she received the Sophie B. Newcomb Academic Award in 1993, served on the African-American Congress of Tulane from 1989-94, was a Tulane Student-Athlete Advisory Board member from 1991-93 and was a member of Tulane's 3.0/4.0 GPA Club in 1993 and 1994.

4. 

   21 Jun 2024

   TTalk with Marvin Allen, John Ripoll and Preston Washington

   Take a trip down memory lane with us to Tulane University in 1985, where Preston Washington (Healthcare Executive), John Ripoll (Sr. VP Investments), and Marvin Allen (Asst. GM Miami Dolphins) recount their college football days. The raucous tales of camaraderie formed in Sharp Hall and the life lessons learned from influential coaches like Mack Brown. Filled with humor and nostalgia, these stories highlight the unique challenges and triumphs of navigating collegiate athletics and solidifying lifelong friendships in the process. (00:01) Introductions (06:41) College Freshmen Football Memories and Bonds (14:05) College Roommates and Shenanigans (27:03) Academic Success (38:45) Navigating College Challenges and Stress (42:05) From Athlete to Finance Career (50:00) Post-Football Careers and Personal Success (01:00:08) Reflection on Friendship

5. 

   31 May 2024

   TTalk with Jerome McIntosh

   Join us on this episode of TTalk as we sit down with Jerome McIntosh, a dynamic athlete who shares his incredible story from growing up on military bases to making waves on the football field. Jerome's unique upbringing across Idaho, Germany, California, and Florida instilled in him the resilience and adaptability that became the cornerstones of his athletic career. From family traditions on military bases to the challenges of constantly adapting to new environments, Jerome's early years are a fascinating blend of discipline and determination. His transition from junior high sports to high school stardom as a two-time 4A state quarterback Player of the Year is a tale of overcoming setbacks and finding a true calling on the football field. What happens when a top-notch quarterback pivots to wide receiver and makes history? McIntosh recounts how a fateful recruiting pitch led him to Tulane, his competitive relationship with teammate Terrence Jones, and the unforgettable moments on the field, including a memorable performance against Florida State. Now an assistant wide receiver coach, Jerome discusses the evolving landscape of college sports with NIL deals and the transfer portal, sharing his insights on the challenges and opportunities they present. (00:04) Athlete's Childhood Moving Around Military Bases (05:22) From Junior High to College (13:46) Recruiting and Freshman Impressions (17:11) Quarterback Competition and Development (23:09) Freshman Year Challenges and Successes (26:30) Transitioning to Wide Receiver in College (40:48) College Football Memories and Transition (53:31) Career Transitions and Coaching Advancements (59:12) Impact of NIL and Transfer Portal (01:10:57) Life Lessons (01:15:03) Reflecting on Memories (01:21:44) Academic Sports and Life Perspective

6. 

   24 May 2024

   TTalk with James McKinley

   We welcome James McKinley, a former Tulane defensive back who made his mark for Coach Mack Brown in the 1987 Independence Bowl. Witness a tale of unwavering spirit, familial influence, and a steely determination that catapulted a late bloomer from a vocational high school into football stardom and a career in mortgage financing. We explore how the values he learned on the gridiron—teamwork, resilience, and competition—translate into career success and personal fulfillment. Join us for this episode of TTalk, where every play counts towards a life well-lived. 00:00) Early Life James McKinley's story showcases perseverance, family influence, and community support in his late start and success in football. (12:29) Recruiting Trip to Tulane A former athlete reflects on his recruiting trip, conversations with Dr. Hill, camaraderie with teammates, and determination to succeed in college athletics. (23:59) Achieving Success Through Hard Work Mastering cover two defense, coaching changes, team goals, and camaraderie led to a winning season and graduation in '88. (31:02) Independence Bowl Experience and Career Highlights Standout performances, media interactions, strategic responses, personal redemption, and family support. (39:38) Life After Sports Transitioning from student athlete to post-athletics, leveraging experiences, resilience, mentors, finances, support, self-improvement, and defining success through faith, family, and community. (50:10) Transfer Portal's Impact on Junior College Athletes The complexities in college sports transfer portal, struggles of junior college athletes, personal preferences, and enduring connections

7. 

   17 May 2024

   TTalk with Michael Christian

   In this episode, we chart the evolution of a high school phenom into a junior college standout at Delgado and shares the camaraderie and growth that propelled him to Tulane University and the Posse. With a life as vibrant as a game-winning buzzer-beater, Michael Christian opens up about his international upbringing, the formative influence of his Air Force father, and the pivotal encounters with future NBA legends that defined his early years. Feel the heartbeat of those fierce NCAA games, where rivalries were as intense as the Southern heat, and the weight of a coach's expectations could make or break a young athlete's dreams. Christian doesn't shy away from the raw moments of self-doubt and the resilience demanded to excel in the highly competitive world of collegiate athletics. Michael shares the wisdom gleaned from coaching, the impact of youth basketball culture, and the responsibilities of nurturing the next generation of talent in an era of NIL and the Transfer Portal. This episode is a celebration of friendship, mentorship and the deep-seated connections that bind the past, present, and future of Tulane Men's Basketball. (00:00) Michael Christian formative years (11:08) High School Basketball (23:12) Junior College Basketball (31:31) Remembering the Posse Era in Tulane Basketball (43:44) NCAA Basketball Game Conversations (48:20) Building a Successful Basketball Team (57:55) Life After College Basketball (01:14:54) Coaching Path and Youth Development (01:20:49) Impact of Youth Basketball Culture (01:29:51) Discussion on Tulane Basketball Program (01:37:16) Building a Winning Legacy at Tulane

8. 

   1 May 2024

   TTalk with Barbara Farris

   Barbara Farris has had an exceptional basketball career as a player, coach, and champion on various levels, despite starting late at age thirteen. Her experiences playing and coaching basketball globally demonstrate its role in her personal growth, as well as the profound impact she has had on her players and the community, exemplifying the importance of being more than just an athlete, but a beacon of inspiration for others. The conversation with Barbara celebrates the joys and challenges of basketball, while also spotlighting the long-term influence of supporting women's sports and the growth of individuals involved. (0:00:00) - Barbara Farris and Growing Up (0:13:49) - Teaching Discipline and Expectations in Public (0:18:09) - High School Athletics and Influential Coaches (0:27:28) - Benefits of Playing Multiple Sports (0:38:45) - College Recruiting Visits and Decisions (0:43:44) - Tulane Women's Basketball Program Memories (0:56:10) - Overcoming Challenges for Success (1:03:11) - Life Lessons Learned Through Basketball (1:11:39) - Embracing Basketball and Self-Confidence (1:18:53) - Athlete Transition to Playing Abroad (1:27:24) - Success in Coaching Basketball (1:39:27) - College Athletics and Transfer Portal (1:44:12) - College Basketball Rule Changes and Opportunities (1:49:40) - Support and Investment in Women's Basketball (1:55:02) - Favorite Things and Guilty Pleasures (2:05:55) - Planning Diverse Sports Network Expansion During her Tulane career, Barbara started in 114 games and scored 1,729 points, making 408 out of 684 free throw attempts, which is second on the record-charts; she also had Tulane’s second-highest career totals of rebounds (939), offensive rebounds (351), defensive rebounds (588), free throws made (408) and free throws attempted (684). She averaged 16.7 points and 6.8 rebounds in her career, becoming the only player in school history to achieve all-conference honors all four years. She still holds the school’s career field-goal percentage record (63.7 percent). For all of these reasons, and for her outstanding leadership skills, she was inducted into the Tulane Athletics Hall of Fame in 2004.

9. 

   24 Apr 2024

   TTalk with Bernard Robertson

   When a New Orleans East kid dreams of athletic stardom, the road isn't always paved in gold. Bernard Robertson, III knows this all too well, and he takes us through the side streets and sharp turns from swimming pools and tennis courts to the roar of NFL stadiums. Our conversation threads through Bernard's formative years, where family influence and mentorship played critical roles in shaping not just an athlete, but a man of resilience. His story a rich tapestry of triumphs, transitions, and the kind of life lessons you can't find in playbooks—resonates with anyone who's ever faced a hurdle and wondered how to leap. But what happens when the game is over, the crowd disperses, and the lights dim? For Bernard Robertson, the play simply changed fields—from the gridiron to the world of wealth management. His tale of transition illuminates the many ways athletes can redirect their passion and skills into new arenas. And as we peel back the curtain on Bernard's post-football success, we uncover a masterclass in adaptability, mentorship, and the never-ending quest for personal growth. Join us as we honor not only Bernard's athletic prowess but also his commitment to guiding the next generation, ensuring that when the stadium lights eventually dim, they're ready to shine elsewhere. (00:00) Athletic Journey of Bernard Robertson (13:16) Navigating Police Interactions With Black Youth (24:34) Recruitment Visit to Tulane Football (38:55) Tommy Bowden and Tulane Football (45:04) Turning Around Tulane's Football Program (59:34) Career Transition and Personal Growth (01:09:44) Transition From Football to Financial Advisor (01:14:58) Impact of NIL and Transfer Portal (01:21:10) Transfer Rules and Athletic Legacy (01:25:20) Praising a Good Leader and Friend

10. 

    17 Apr 2024

    TTalk with Britney Hurst Temple

    We talk with Britney Hurst Temple, a volleyball titan whose illustrious career has vaulted her into the Tulane University Hall of Fame. Britney shares a candid retrospective of her sports career, reflecting on pivotal moments from her early days as a high-energy athlete under her mother's guidance, to her transformation into a volleyball prodigy. Throughout the episode, she reveals the nuanced challenges she faced, including embracing her heritage, combating stereotypes, and advocating for diversity within volleyball. Britney's post-graduation life includes her overseas volleyball career, the creation of a modeling agency and a thriving financial firm. We explore the significant role family legacy plays in her life, including the athletic and educational trailblazing by her mother and in-laws. Britney imparts her wisdom on embracing new passions like tennis and the importance of finding fulfilling activities that keep the competitive spirit alive. This episode is not just about sports, but about life, identity, and the drive to craft a legacy worth remembering.

11. 

    10 Apr 2024

    TTalk with Terry D'Angelo

    Terry Johnson D'Angelo, recounts her inspiring journey from her Long Beach, Mississippi beginnings to becoming a Tulane women's basketball legend. She opens up about her formative years, the recruitment rollercoaster, and the transition to university athletics that would set the stage for an illustrious career in sports. We dive deep into the life of a woman whose influence has extended far beyond the basketball court. Listen in as we explore the landscape of women's collegiate basketball post-Title IX and its growth over the years. Terry reminisces about her on-court achievements, including a standout 36-point game, and discusses the evolution of the sport—from the absence of a shot clock to today's fast-paced action. She highlights the hard work and dedication necessary to compete at a high level, touching on injury prevention and the advancements that have enriched the modern athlete's experience. We delve into the challenges athletes face today, including navigating NIL deals and maintaining the delicate balance between sport and scholarship. Terry's story is a beacon for young athletes—a reminder of the power of sports to shape futures, build lasting connections, and foster personal growth that extends far beyond the court.

12. 

    3 Apr 2024

    TTalk with Melvin Ferdinand

    Melvin Ferdinand, Tulane's own football and track star, shares stories that add rich detail to the university's student athletics history. From his notable high school days at St. Augustine to the influential recruitment by Coach Mack Brown, Melvin opens up about the highs and lows of his collegiate career. His candid reflections on the complexities of being a student-athlete at a predominantly white institution offer a raw glimpse into the personal growth that sports catalyzed for him. We hear his memories of camaraderie in the Superdome, the academic struggles paired with athletic triumphs, and the stereotypes that Melvin defied. The conversation takes an inspiring turn when Melvin shares the wisdom gleaned from his impressive 22-year military career. He emphasizes the indispensable role of mentorship and networks, drawing from his own experiences moving from the gridiron to the Marine Corps. He discusses the invaluable lessons in teamwork and leadership that his military service nurtured, mirroring the solidarity found on the sports field. As he talks about initiatives like "Suiting up with T-Club" and "Getting Prepared with T-Club," designed to arm student-athletes for success beyond college, he recognizes the acute need for a community that supports and uplifts its young sportsmen and women through thick and thin. He tackles the timely topic of Name, Image, and Likeness, advocating for initiatives that arm young sportsmen and women with the tools for success beyond their collegiate endeavors. Whether you're an athlete, a mentor, or an advocate for collegiate sports, this episode promises to engage, educate, and inspire.

13. 

    27 Mar 2024

    TTalk with Harold Asher

    We sat down with Harold Asher, a Tulane football alumnus Class of 1972, for a nostalgic journey through his athletic and personal growth from his high school days in Bogalusa to the victory at the Liberty Bowl. Harold shares stories of his evolution from a scrappy defensive end to a collegiate Linebacker against the backdrop of the Vietnam War era. He describes his close bond with his father, who was his biggest cheerleader, never missing a practice or a game, and how the cultural and social tides of the time shaped his experiences both on and off the field. Harold reminisces about the grueling freshman year tactics aimed at testing the mettle of young athletes, and the pioneering steps towards integration in Tulane's football team. We discuss the camaraderie that blossomed among players under pressure and how it has endured over the years. Harold reflects on the historic milestones and challenges faced by the first African-American scholarship athletes at the university, shedding light on their legacy and the profound impact they had on the program. Harold's transition from biology major to business leader is a playbook for life after the whistle blows. As we discuss his successful career and benevolent involvement in community service, we uncover the value of networks and mentorship within the Tulane athletic community. This episode is a rallying cry for student-athletes to harness their support systems and give back. Harold's wisdom, like a seasoned coach's advice, encourages young players to dream big and live a life marked by perseverance, humor, and the joy of a touchdown dance well-earned.

14. 

    20 Mar 2024

    How the Wave Rolls: Navigating Muddy Waters from Stephen Martin to the Cotton Bowl EP1

    We gathered to honor legends like Harold Sylvester, Charlie Hall, John Washington, Sharon Hill, and the enduring legacy of Stephen Martin Sr., whose stories of triumph and challenges during Black Alumni Weekend left us in awe. They, along with current student-athlete Sincere Haynesworth, peeled back layers of history, revealing the raw and real adjustments they faced in the realms of race, culture, and education. These conversations were an emotional homage to the spirit of resilience and the pursuit of equity in the athletic world, reminding us that the playing field is far more than just a piece of turf. How the Wave Rolls: Navigating Muddy Waters from Stephen Martin to the Cotton Bowl. TTalk Live: Black Alumni Weekend (recorded 2/24/24) Moderator: Ro Brown renowned Sports Director, Louisiana Sports Hall of Famer; Panelists: Dr. Stephen Martin, Jr. whose father was the first Black student-athlete at Tulane, the first baseball player and the first to play a varsity sport in the SEC; Harold Sylvester award winning actor and writer, the first Black student-athlete at Tulane on an athletic scholarship and the first basketball player; Charlie Hall and John Washington two of the first Black student-athletes to play football at Tulane; Sharon Hill the first Black student-athlete to play Women's basketball; Sincere Haynesworth a captain of the 2023 Cotton Bowl Championship team and a recipient of the Stephen Martin Scholars Award. (00:00) - Celebrating Black Athlete Stories (10:34) - Stephen Martin, Sr. (25:41) - The Seventies (41:47) - Sharon Hill (46:47) - Importance of Academics (53:00) - Sincere Haynesworth (01:08:05) - Q & A Memorable Impactful moments (01:54:00) - Navigating College Athletics and Finances Remembering Stephen Martin, Sr. This podcast includes reflections on the remarkable life and legacy of Stephen Martin, Sr., an exceptional student-athlete who faced the challenges of segregation during his time at Tulane University. We discuss his decision to attend Tulane, sacrificing the chance to play his best sport, football. Despite the racial barriers of the era, Martin's profound character and intelligence shine through as we recount his high school achievements and the systemic issues that shaped his collegiate athletic career. We touch upon the complicated factors that led to Martin's unique path to Tulane, including withheld recruitment letters and the decision not to play football due to safety concerns. Martin's baseball career at Tulane is highlighted, where he still faced significant racial threats, showcasing his courage and the harsh realities of the times. Through the recollections and perspectives shared, we honor Stephen Martin Sr.'s enduring impact as both an athlete and a human being. To one of Tulane's finest, Roll Wave! Thanks to: Podcast participants Ro Brown, Charlie Hall, John Washington, Sharon Hill, Sincere Haynesworth; and Harold Sylvester and Dr. Stephen Martin, Jr who also participated on the podcast planning committee along with Carmen Jones, Jim Becnel, Justin Thompson, Journe Smith and Zoe Yates. Special Thanks to: Tulane University Office of Alumni Relations Black Alumni Network of Tulane University Carolyn Barber-Pierre Freret Media Group and Martin Family Freeman School of Business - Office of the Dean Paul Thomason - Broadcast & Production Service https://youtube.com/@TulaneT-Club

15. 

    13 Mar 2024

    TTalk with Larry Route

    Larry Route, a Covington, Louisiana native and former Tulane All-American football standout, shares his amazing story. Larry suffered a broken neck in high school, but he battled back from what could have been a career ending injury and convinced his mother to allow him back onto the field. Larry's exceptional talent caught the eye of renowned coach Lou Holtz, leading to a tough decision between Tulane and Arkansas. Larry chose to stay close to home so  his mom could see him play. Larry found himself in a unique College environment. Things were changing; Tulane was no longer playing in their on-campus stadium, they were playing in the Superdome. Larry studied Sports Administration and had to balance tough classes with playing Division I sports, especially during away games. At first, Larry played as a receiver, but then he switched to the H-back/tight end position. He worked hard to bulk up from 180 to 205 pounds during his redshirt freshman year. He knew he had to keep getting better, especially when playing tough teams. Larry remembers how great it felt when his big plays helped Tulane seal the victory over Florida State. Larry talks about his college days, his career after graduating, and how college sports are changing, in a conversation led by Tulane Hall of Famer Carmen Jones.

16. 

    12 Mar 2024

    Black Alumni Weekend Podcast introduction of Harold Sylvester

    Moderator Ro Brown a renowned Sports Director and Louisiana Sports Hall of Famer introduces panelist Harold Sylvester. Mr. Sylvester is an award winning actor, director and writer and was the first Black student-athlete at Tulane on an athletic scholarship and the first basketball player. The TClub is recording a multi-episode series titled, How the Wave Rolls: Navigating Muddy Waters from Stephen Martin to the Cotton Bowl. Episode 1 was recorded in conjunction with Tulane's Inaugural Black Alumni Weekend on 2/24/24. The Black athlete experience at Tulane did not begin until the 1960's. Today's panel provides some insight into the trauma and triumph of the men and women of Tulane Athletics over the past sixty years.

17. 

    12 Mar 2024

    Black Alumni Weekend Panelist

    The TClub is recording a multi-episode series titled, How the Wave Rolls: Navigating Muddy Waters from Stephen Martin to the Cotton Bowl. Episode 1 was recorded in conjunction with Tulane's Inaugural Black Alumni Weekend on 2/24/24. The Black athlete experience at Tulane did not begin until the 1960's. Today's panel provides some insight into the trauma and triumph of the men and women of Tulane Athletics over the past sixty years. Moderator Ro Brown a renowned Sports Director and Louisiana Sports Hall of Famer introduces the panelist.

18. 

    12 Mar 2024

    The Tulane TClub presents TTalk: Beyond the Field

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