Pivot Podcast

"We are all sacrificing something." Craig Melvin

Today Show co-host, Craig Melvin sits down with Ryan, Channing and Fred for a powerful and deeply personal conversation about purpose, perseverance, and perspective. From his early days growing up in South Carolina to becoming a trusted voice as a face of morning television, Craig reflects on the defining moments that shaped both his career and character.

Relaxed and with transparency, Craig gives us a rare look back on his childhood, the lessons he learned from his mom and how his complicated relationship with his father led to one of the biggest and most impactful pivots in his life. His father's transformation from addiction into growth through love, hardship, and understanding helped redefine their relationship over time, and that journey ultimately inspired him to write his book. He speaks about vulnerability, forgiveness, and what it means to break cycles and evolve.

Inside his life off-camera—Craig shares insights into his marriage, the realities of parenting, true sacrifice and the constant balancing act between ambition and presence. The guys share their stories of raising a family with humility, gratitude and exchange funny father moments that they normally wouldn't say aloud!

Discussing the pressures and privileges of being a national TV host, Craig reveals how he's maintained his identity, the tough balancing act and what built the tight-knit bond between his Today Show family, giving us a glimpse into Savannah Guthrie's strength and how her return is truly a beacon of hope for all.

Craig also speaks about turning personal loss into purpose, honoring his late brother by becoming an advocate for awareness around Colon cancer, using his platform to encourage early screening and potentially save lives, he even gets Ryan, Fred and Channing to agree to getting colonoscopy's as part of a bigger push for men to do so.

Turning a life theme into his newest project, Craig shares how his new show Glass Half Full explores the stories and mindsets of athletes, entertainers, entrepreneurs and personalities through deep conversation over time, peeling back layers we never knew existed. Reflecting on legacy, future goals, and the impact he hopes to leave—not just in media, but within his own family, this episode is a thoughtful, honest exploration of growth, identity, and the power of showing up—both professionally and personally.

Pivot Family, comment, like, hit the subscribe button, we enjoy hearing and learning from you- the good and the bad, we want to know!
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“I feel like God had his hands on me because I shouldn’t be alive.”

On this powerful episode of the The Pivot Podcast, the hosts sit down with Grammy-winning artist Lecrae for a raw and inspiring conversation about transformation, faith, and purpose. Lecrae opens up about his turbulent upbringing, sharing how a tough past filled with instability and street influences shaped his early identity.

He reflects on the lessons he learned from the streets—both the survival instincts and the emotional scars—and how those experiences ultimately pushed him to search for something deeper. That search led him to Christian music, where he found not only faith, but a calling that would redefine his life.

Lecrae also dives into his evolution as an artist, discussing the challenges of balancing authenticity, faith, and mainstream success in today’s music industry. From building a groundbreaking career in Christian hip-hop to using his platform to inspire and uplift others, he shares the mindset and mission that keep him grounded. From his musical hits to working in the studio with some of music's top artists, Lecrae carved a niche for him that has led to high success and a global impact. 

At its core, this conversation is about growth, redemption, and purpose—highlighting Lecrae’s goal to bridge worlds, impact lives, and prove that your past doesn’t have to define your future.

Pivot Family, comment, like, hit the subscribe button, we enjoy hearing and learning from you- the good and the bad, we want to know!
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You Asked, We Answered: Sports, Growth & Hard Truths

It's a Good Friday for sure, on this episode of The Pivot Podcast, Ryan, Channing and Fred are tapping in with the fans and answering some of the realest questions out there—about sports, life, and the moments that shape who you become.

The guys dive into one of the biggest debates in today’s game: is NIL changing college sports for better or worse? From locker room perspective to long-term impact, they break down what today’s athletes are gaining, the root of it all—and what might be getting lost along the way.

Then it gets personal. The crew reflects on the one decision that changed the trajectory of their lives, and why those defining moments don’t always feel big when you’re in them yet turn out to be life changing. The guys also talk about the importance of having a Plan B—when to pivot, when to stay down, and how to recognize the difference.

The guys reflect and look at the people who inspired them early on—the role models, idols, and real-life examples that helped shape their mindset both on and off the field, the answers of who's on that list might surprise you!

And of course, we weigh in on the situation surrounding Jaden Ivey, offering perspective on pressure, expectations, and navigating the spotlight when the world is watching.

It’s honest, unfiltered, and straight from the heart—just how you expect it.

Pivot Family, You asked. We answered. Thank you for rocking with us and keep the comments coming, don't forget to like and subcribe too!
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“There’s a difference between earning and building wealth.” Rich Kleiman

In this episode of The Pivot Podcast, business mogul Rich Kleiman sits down for a candid and compelling conversation about his unconventional path from small-time bookie to one of the most influential figures in sports and business. With honesty and sharp insight, Kleiman reflects on the pivotal moments that shaped his journey—lessons learned on the streets, the risks he took early on, and how those experiences laid the groundwork for his future as a dealmaker and entrepreneur.

A central part of the conversation highlights his long-standing partnership with NBA superstar Kevin Durant. Kleiman offers a behind-the-scenes look at how their relationship grew from friendship into a powerful business alliance, including the creation of Thirty Five Ventures and their approach to investing, branding, and storytelling.

Kleiman dives deep into his evolution as a business strategist, detailing how he built a reputation rooted in trust, loyalty, and vision. From lessons learned through shadowing Jay Z to what the streets taught him the hard way, Rich shares the vision behind co-founding Boardroom, the media and investment platform redefining how athletes and fans engage with the business of sports, culture, and entertainment.

Throughout the conversation, Kleiman touches on his work across industries—from media and tech to sports and philanthropy—revealing the key mindset that has helped him navigate high-stakes environments and build lasting impact. This is a story about reinvention, resilience, and recognizing opportunity where others might not. It’s an insightful listen for anyone interested in entrepreneurship, partnership, and the business of turning passion into power.

Pivot Family, comment, like, hit the subscribe button, we enjoy hearing and learning from you- the good and the bad, we want to know!
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“He said what he said!” Channing Crowder 

Another Friday with the fellas, and we are keeping it real as it comes! In this episode of The Pivot Podcast, Ryan Clark, Channing Crowder, and Fred Taylor dive headfirst into the growing tension between media narratives and athlete realities—where competition doesn’t just stay on the field, but spills into headlines, hot takes, and heated exchanges.

The guys unpack what happens when sports and media collide in a war of words, questioning whether loyalty still holds value in an era driven by viral moments and attention economics. Is integrity being sacrificed for clicks? And more importantly, how do athletes and analysts alike stop chasing acceptance in spaces that thrive on controversy?

They break down the ongoing friction between Cam Newton and Stephen A. Smith, offering perspective on accountability, respect, and the blurred lines between critique and personal attack while RC opens up on his views being dragged into it. The conversation expands to Dan Orlovsky’s recent criticisms and the debate surrounding leadership and performance expectations at the quarterback position—including the Fernando Mendoza vs. Ty Simpson No. 1 QB discussion. Channing agrees with Dan O while Fred feels that this 2026 QB NFL Draft class is weaker than recent ones.

Switching gears to NBA and basketball talk, the crew reflects on Victor Wembanyama’s unique presence in the league—his confidence, individuality, and whether his global background gives him an edge in navigating pressure without the weight of American sports culture norms or fandom of players like Lebron. The guys are fired up by Wemby' swag and echo his MVP chatter.

Rounding out the episode, the guys take a moment to acknowledge J. Cole’s message about authenticity and self-awareness, tying it back to the broader theme of staying grounded in truth while the world demands performance. We also spoke about acceptance, finding worth in achievement and what is the standard we value our success at.

It’s a raw, honest, and thought-provoking episode about identity, accountability, and the cost of being real in a system built for noise.

Pivot Family, comment, like, hit the subscribe button, we enjoy hearing and learning from you- the good and the bad, we want to know!
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