"STL In The Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter Podcast

Steve Wyche, Chief National Reporter for NFL Network and NFL.com

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2462893/fan_mail/new] NFL Network's Steve Wyche joins Tom, Ken, and Sherry on STL In The Huddle for a hometown homecoming episode. A Parkway South High School grad and St. Louis native, Steve reflects on his journey from local newspapers (Miami Herald, Washington Post, Atlanta Journal-Constitution) to NFL Network, sharing career-defining moments covering legends like Dan Marino, Michael Jordan, and Patrick Mahomes. The conversation covers his recent induction into the Black College Football Hall of Fame, life as a grandfather balancing family and a demanding travel schedule, favorite St. Louis nostalgia (Imo's Pizza, Ted Drewes, Noggles), a pivotal high school football memory that shaped his path to college ball at Missouri, and thoughts on soccer's growing popularity in the U.S. following the World Cup. A fun, heartfelt conversation full of hometown pride, football history, and behind-the-scenes media insight. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2462893/support] "STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Rudy Ruettiger and Pat Sarb -Part 4: Legends, Education & Farewell

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2462893/fan_mail/new] STL In The Huddle – Episode 4: Legends, Education & Farewell In the final installment of our four-part conversation with Rudy Ruettiger — the real-life inspiration behind the iconic film Rudy — we wrap up with some of the most memorable moments yet. Rudy shares personal stories about legends like Stan Musial, Tom Brady's dad, Kobe Bryant, and Christopher Reeve, reflecting on the unexpected connections that define a life well-lived. The conversation turns to education, trades, and the power of developing real-world skills — a message as relevant today as ever. Thank you to Rudy Ruettiger for giving so generously of your time across all four episodes. Your stories, wisdom, and infectious enthusiasm for life have been an inspiration. And a heartfelt thank you to Pat for making this incredible series happen. To our listeners — we know your time is valuable, and we're truly grateful you invested it with us over these four episodes. We hope Rudy's message stays with you: give 100%, develop your skills, and never, ever quit. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2462893/support] "STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Rudy Ruettiger and Pat Sarb -Part 3: Rudy's Impact

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2462893/fan_mail/new] In the third installment of our conversation with Rudy Ruettiger, we dive into the far-reaching impact of his story — from Hollywood to the White House. Rudy shares remarkable behind-the-scenes moments from the film's release, including a private screening for President Bill Clinton, encounters with Presidents George H.W. and George W. Bush, and an unforgettable visit to the Oval Office. But the episode goes far beyond politics. Rudy reflects on how his story has inspired some of the biggest names in sports — from Kobe Bryant, who credits the film with keeping him from quitting basketball, to Jason Kelce, who watched Rudy with his brother during tough times at the University of Cincinnati. He also shares heartwarming stories of connecting with Milwaukee Brewers players, speaking at military academies, and even being chanted for by inmates during a prison ministry. Rudy also opens up about what's next — a newly pitched film project called The Interruption, inspired by a near-death experience in his own family, and his thoughts on today's college football culture, NIL, and what coaches like Dabo Swinney are doing right. A powerful, inspiring conversation about legacy, perseverance, and the unexpected ways one story can change the world. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2462893/support] "STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

Rudy Ruettiger and Pat Sarb -PART 2 The Journey to Notre Dame

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2462893/fan_mail/new] In this episode, the Ken, Tom and Sherry sit down with Rudy Ruettiger — the real-life inspiration behind the iconic 1993 film Rudy — to hear the unfiltered story of how a blue-collar kid from a large family with no college expectations found his way to Notre Dame. Rudy shares candid memories of working in a power plant, the role Notre Dame football played in his working-class household, and the persistence and unlikely connections that ultimately got him onto the field and his story onto the big screen. From tracking down the screenwriter Angelo Pizzo to getting the film greenlit with Notre Dame's blessing in 48 hours, this episode is a compelling behind-the-scenes look at one of sports cinema's most beloved stories — and the real lessons in resilience, collaboration, and faith that made it possible. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2462893/support] "STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.

"Rudy" Ruettiger and Pat Sarb - Brotherhood & Leadership PART 1 (of 4)

Send us Fan Mail [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2462893/fan_mail/new] What does it take to earn your place — on the field, in the military, and in life? In this debut episode, host Tom sits down with Pat Sarb, Notre Dame alum and Naval Academy veteran, and Daniel "Rudy" Ruettiger, the real-life inspiration behind the iconic film Rudy. Together, they unpack the grit, loyalty, and character it takes to succeed when the odds are stacked against you. The conversation dives into college football culture, NIL and athlete mentality, military discipline and leadership, and why chasing passion — not money — is the only path to a life well lived. Rudy shares how the movie continues to inspire fans worldwide, and Pat reflects on walk-on perseverance, family, and paying it forward. Whether you're a football fan, a veteran, a coach, a parent, or someone chasing a dream others said was impossible — this episode is for you. Support the show [https://www.buzzsprout.com/2462893/support] "STL In the Huddle" The National Football Foundation Tom Lombardo St. Louis Chapter.