The Business of Fandom

The Future of Southern Fandom

For our grand finale of Between the Hedges of the South, host Zane Brookshire is joined by Dr. Joe Dennis, chairman of Piedmont University’s Mass Communications department, for a conversation on the future of southern fandom. We both unpack how college football podcasts are redefining the fan experience, transforming storytelling, and strengthening the communities that make Southern football culture so enduring.

From Porch Talk to Push Notifications

On this episode of Between the Hedges of the South, host Zane Brookshire sits down with freshman Sports Communications major and Piedmont University swimmer Brady Bowman to break down how instant news culture is reshaping Southern fandom. We dive into “From Porch Talk to Push Notifications,” exploring how real‑time updates, rapid reactions, and digital communities are changing the way fans experience the sport.

The Business of Fandom

On this episode of Between the Hedges of the South, host Zane Brookshire sits down with Grant Prather, a junior Mass and Sports Communications major at Piedmont University. We both dive into The Business of Fandom, exploring how podcasts influence consumer behavior, how NIL is reshaping athlete branding, and why merchandise has become a powerful driver of loyalty in today’s sports culture.

Media Bias or Regional Pride?

In episode nine of Between the Hedges of the South, host Zane Brookshire sits down with Tristan Dyer, Assistant Professor of Mass Communications, to unpack one big question: Media Bias or Regional Pride? We explore how Southern voices and especially SEC‑country podcasts shape, defend, and challenge the national narrative around college football.”

Nostalgia and Memory

On this episode of Between the Hedges of the South, host Zane Brookshire sits down with senior sports communications major and former Piedmont University baseball player Nate Courtwright to explore how nostalgia and memory fuel our love for college football.