Unwired Appalachia

Kelly Wells on Leaving UPIKE for Morehead State | Inside the Move to NCAA Division I

This week, Randy makes the trip to Morehead State University to sit down with Kelly Wells, the new Director of Athletics at Morehead State University and former UPIKE men's basketball coach. The two catch up on Wells' transition from UPIKE to Morehead State, discussing what led him to make the move and how his new role differs from coaching. They also dive into the differences between NAIA and NCAA Division I athletics, from recruiting and scholarships to the day-to-day responsibilities of leading an athletic department. It's an inside look at one of Eastern Kentucky's most respected basketball minds as he begins a new chapter while continuing to shape collegiate athletics in the Commonwealth. #UnwiredAppalachia #MoreheadState #UPIKE #CollegeAthletics #MountainSports

Brian Milam on His Journey from WYMT to KHSAA | Unwired Appalachia Podcast

This week on Unwired Appalachia, Randy catches up with Kentucky sports broadcasting legend Brian Milam to talk about his journey since leaving Eastern Kentucky. Brian reflects on getting his start at WYMT-TV, his move to WKYT-TV, and the career path that eventually led him to his current role as Director of Communications and Media Relations for the Kentucky High School Athletic Association. The two discuss Brian's passion for high school athletics, how his role has changed from telling the stories to helping promote them statewide, and why staying connected to Kentucky's student-athletes continues to be so important to him. It's a conversation about broadcasting, career growth, and a lifelong commitment to high school sports in the Commonwealth. #UnwiredAppalachia #BrianMilam #KHSAA #KentuckySports #HighSchoolSports #MountainSports

Rooster Talks Belfry Softball, Coaching Journey & Wrestling | Unwired Appalachia

This week, Randy is joined by Belfry Head Softball Coach and Assistant Football Coach Ryan Chapman, better known around the mountains as "Rooster," along with his son, Knox Chapman, for a fun and wide-ranging conversation. The group discusses the continued success of the Belfry softball program, the culture being built within the Lady Pirates program, and what it takes to compete at a high level. Chapman also reflects on his coaching journey, from working across multiple sports to the experiences and mentors that helped shape him into the coach he is today. The conversation doesn't stop with softball. Randy and Ryan also spend some time talking professional wrestling, sharing stories and discussing some of their favorite moments from the sport. From softball and football to wrestling and coaching, this episode offers a little bit of everything, with Knox making a special appearance along the way.

Belfry Native Bobby Varney Takes the Reins of Lady Pirates Basketball | Unwired Appalachia

This week, Randy is joined by newly appointed Belfry Lady Pirates head basketball coach Bobby Varney. Coach Varney discusses his journey to becoming the leader of the Belfry girls' basketball program, his coaching philosophy, and what excites him most about taking over the Lady Pirates. As a Belfry native with deep roots in the community, Varney also shares what it means to have the opportunity to lead a program that has meant so much to him throughout his life. The conversation looks ahead to the upcoming season, offseason development, summer workouts, and building a foundation for future success while continuing the proud tradition of Belfry athletics. Get to know the new face of Belfry girls' basketball and hear his vision for the program moving forward.

Inside Pikeville Athletics | Shane Simpkins Talks Panther Success & Upcoming Gala

This week, Randy sits down with Pikeville Assistant Athletic Director and Head Baseball Coach Shane Simpkins to discuss the exciting things happening throughout Pikeville athletics. The conversation highlights the upcoming Pikeville Athletics Gala on June 19 at 7 p.m., which will be emceed by Brian Milam, and what the event means for Panther athletics moving forward. Simpkins also shares insight into the continued success of Pikeville's athletic programs, the culture that drives that success, and the vision for the future. From championship-level performances to exciting opportunities ahead, this episode provides a look inside one of the region's premier athletic programs.