Midwest Legends

Midwest Legends Episode #26: Ben Leber -- Vikings History, Tough Love, and the Drama of the Draft

Former Minnesota Vikings linebacker and current sideline analyst Ben Leber joins Russell to discuss his journey from a multicultural childhood in Iowa to a professional NFL football player. Ben talks about his supportive family, including two older brothers who inspired him to try football and how coaches along the way shaped the player he later became. After a trying rookie season in college, Ben reached a turning point where he chose to keep going despite the challenges of higher expectations. From that moment on, he’s embraced an incredible football career.  From the highs and lows of draft night to the legendary teammates he met along the way, Ben Leber tells Russell the inside scoop and the honest truths about his time in the NFL.

Midwest Legends Episode #25: Noah Bakken -- Motocross, Train Jumping, and Winning Big at Monster Jam

Noah Bakken, a motocross expert who is no stranger to performing impressive feats on two wheels, sat down with Russell to talk all things speed and spectacle. Noah Bakken remembers his childhood growing up in a family of motorcycle lovers fondly. Despite his first ride on a PW50 when he was just three ending with him hitting a swing set, he fell in love with all thing’s motocross. Noah tells Russell all the behind the scenes of his most viral motocross tricks, including his awe-inspiring train jumping videos and his popular “Coffee Run” videos, with the third one already in the works! He and Russell discuss the trials of mastering such a dangerous sport, including two broken femurs. Noah remembers his win at Monster Jam as a highlight in his career, celebrating with his entire family. There’s no telling what he will accomplish in the motocross world next! Tune in to hear Noah’s journey to becoming a Midwest motocross star with some twists and turns along the way.

Midwest Legends Episode #24: Dial-in Special Part 3 w/ Jared Schutz

Welcome to Midwest Legend’s third dial-in special. Jared from Wisco Dive Bars sat down with Russell to react to 3 listener submitted stories.   Featuring stories from Lindsay, Dan, and Nate

Midwest Legends Episode #23: C.J. Ham--Skateboarding, 10 Years in the NFL, & the Minneapolis Miracle

CJ Ham recently retired from the NFL after 10 seasons playing for the Vikings, and he sat down with Russell to talk about where his love for football started and where it’s taken him. CJ Ham remembers dropping out of Augustana’s fall training camp for three days. He was one of many freshman players who quit, but he can’t remember the head coach telling anyone else to come back if they changed their mind. This wasn’t the only time others saw CJ Ham’s potential, and he’s quick to express his gratitude to those who supported him throughout his career. He and Russell discuss how the competitiveness required to succeed in football can become unhealthy, with team losses being twisted into personal failure. CJ Ham shares how he keeps his mindset in check with the help of his faith. Tune in to hear stories about CJ being recruited in an alley to play football, his love of skateboarding, and that time he thought his career was over after the NFL draft. Football Designed by Spencer Young - Forever Young Designs

Midwest Legends Episode #22: Promise --The Radio Biz, Summerfest, and Interviewing Ice Cube

For Promise, the road to landing a morning show on Hot 105.7 FM wasn’t easy, but it was a labor of love. He sat down with Russell to talk about how his passion carried him through the long hours and late nights. From hosting a college radio show to becoming the voice Milwaukee woke up to, Promise spent years honing his craft. Hosting gigs are scarce, and while that scarcity helped fuel his hunger to learn, it also brought plenty of pressure. Russell and Promise find common ground here, with Russell sharing how he once felt pressure to conform to the identity of a “big city lawyer.” Promise is quick to give credit to those who supported him, while also knowing his worth: “If I waited for people to give me my flowers, I’d be under them.” Tune in to hear stories about Promise interviewing Ice Cube, working nights in radio while still managing a 9–5, and his unexpected journey into stand-up.