This week on Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we sit down with CJ Nightingale, the head coach at Belhaven University. Coach Nightingale discusses how his childhood shaped his coaching philosophy, details the key steps in his development as a coach, and reflects on his experience as a member of the 2022 AFCA 35 Under 35 class.

In this episode, Coach Nightingale shares:
• The moment he knew he wanted to coach
• Lessons learned early in his career
• The transition from high school to college coaching
• His time building the Indiana Wesleyan program
• Establishing a defensive culture at Wheaton
• The decision to take on the head coaching role at Belhaven
• Insights from the AFCA 35 Under 35 program

Follow Coach Nightingale: @Coach_CDN2
Follow Belhaven Football: @BelhavenFB

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On this week's episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we sit down with Brett Ekkens, the head coach at Tiffin University. Coach Ekkens shares his journey from player to coach, how adopting a no task is too small mindset shaped his career, and the lessons he learned on the way to becoming a head coach.

He also discusses staff building, taking ownership at every stage of the profession, and the leadership habits that drive success inside the Tiffin program. This is a valuable conversation for coaches at every level who are striving to grow, lead, and elevate their teams.

Follow Coach Ekkens and Tiffin Football:
@Coach_Ekkens • @TiffinFootball

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In this episode, we're joined by Lennx Brown, wide receiver at Morningside University and a proud member of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. A standout on the field, Lennx has helped guide the Mustangs to a conference championship and a national semifinal run, earning All-Conference honors for his leadership and consistency.

Off the field, Lennx's commitment to serving others sets him apart. He has participated in mission work across Louisiana, Cuba, Uganda, and Honduras, while also supporting his local community through tornado relief and youth mentorship. Much of his passion for service is inspired by the memory of his sister, Merzedes, whose legacy continues through the Merzedes Hard Memorial Fund, created by Lennx and his family to support families in need and fund meaningful community projects.

This conversation dives into Lennx's journey of resilience, purpose, and impact, and how he uses his platform to honor others and bring lasting change.

Follow Morningside Football: @msidefootball

This week, we're spotlighting Dylan Wheeler, a standout wide receiver at Saint John's University and a member of the 2025 Allstate AFCA Good Works Team. Dylan discusses his journey as one of Division III's top receivers and how his commitment to service has shaped his life on and off the field.

Last season, Dylan recorded 21 touchdowns and over 1,100 receiving yards, establishing himself as a leader for the Johnnies. Off the field, he has raised more than $25,000 for Folds of Honor, led diversity and inclusion efforts as Saint John's SAAC President, and helped generate $35,000 to provide nearly 100,000 meals for families in need. His service also includes mission work in the Bahamas and volunteer efforts with Special Olympics and St. Jude Children's Research Hospital.

Dylan shares how faith, leadership, and a desire to serve motivate him to make a lasting impact far beyond the game of football.

Follow Saint John's Football: @saintjohnsfootball

On this week's episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we're joined by Greg Holsworth, Head Coach at Henderson State University.

Coach Holsworth discusses how he got his start in coaching, the lessons learned from balancing multiple roles early in his career, and the mindset it takes to stay consistent and build a winning culture. He also reflects on leadership, self-evaluation, and his experience in the 2025 AFCA 35 Under 35 program.

Key Takeaways:

• How Coach Holsworth broke into the coaching profession

• Lessons from early challenges and opportunities

• Building and maintaining a successful team culture

• The importance of self-reflection and growth

• Insights from the AFCA 35 Under 35 class

Episode Highlights:
1:13 – When did you know you wanted to be a coach?
5:00 – Starting your career at Occidental College
10:43 – Balancing high-school and college coaching
18:40 – Graduate assistant experience at Wyoming
27:20 – Coaching influences and leadership style
40:00 – Special Teams philosophy as a head coach
49:10 – Creating a defensive identity
54:30 – AFCA 35 Under 35 experience

Follow Coach Holsworth and Henderson State Football: @Coach_Hols | @ReddiesFB

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Duke University cornerback Chandler Rivers joins the show to share how leadership, teamwork, and service define his journey on and off the field.

A First Team All-ACC selection and All-America honoree, Rivers has been a key part of Duke's nationally recognized defense. Off the field, he's equally committed to making a difference in his community. In his hometown of Beaumont, Texas, he founded the Chandler Rivers Youth Football Camp, providing free training and mentorship to local youth. His efforts also include organizing food drives, volunteering at Duke Children's Hospital, mentoring students through the Emily K Center, and assisting those in need through outreach programs.

Recognized as a member of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team, Rivers continues to set an example for what it means to lead through character, commitment, and service.

On this week's episode of Inside the Headset – Presented by CoachComm, we sit down with Richie Leonard IV, a standout offensive lineman for Florida State University and a proud member of the Allstate AFCA Good Works Team.

Richie has made an incredible impact not only on the field but in the lives of those around him. In addition to being a leader for the Florida State Seminoles, he's deeply committed to giving back to his communities in both Tallahassee and his hometown.

He founded the Richie H. Leonard IV Football Camp, a free event that brings together over 300 kids and families for a day of skill development, mentorship, and fun. His dedication to service extends far beyond football — from participating in a Fellowship of Christian Athletes mission trip to Argentina, to volunteering locally at elementary schools and Special Olympics events. Richie even supports his childhood AAU basketball team, purchasing shoes and equipment for players in need.

Inspired by his mother's courageous battle with cancer, Richie is preparing to launch a care package initiative for cancer patients later this year. Through his actions, he continues to demonstrate what it means to use your platform for good — leading with gratitude and service both on and off the field.

• Richie's journey at Florida State University

• Founding the Richie H. Leonard IV Football Camp

• The impact of faith, family, and mentorship

• His work with Fellowship of Christian Athletes and Special Olympics

• Launching a new initiative to support cancer patients

• What it means to be part of the AFCA Good Works Team