Eastern Michigan Athletics

Podcasts

Season 7 - Episode 28: Spring Vibes and Superstar Returns

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Published on 4/14/2025

The Eastern Insider Podcast wrapped up Season 7 with a high-energy finale as hosts Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner were joined by EMU Head Football Coach Chris Creighton, quarterback Noah Kim, and cheer captain Elena Davis. Coach Creighton reflected on a productive spring, emphasizing growth, chemistry, and innovation—like crossover drills that helped players understand both sides of the ball. Noah Kim discussed his transition from Michigan State, praising EMU's culture and his evolving connection with teammates. Elena Davis, fresh off a top-seven finish at NCA Nationals, shared her pride in the cheer team's resilience and excitement for what's ahead. The biggest headline, however, was the announcement that NFL star and EMU legend Maxx Crosby is officially returning to the program as Assistant GM. Crosby will lead a player mentorship initiative, inspire future "MAXX" position defenders, and kickstart the "Maxx Challenge," matching NIL donations up to $100,000. With momentum across football, cheer, and the entire athletic department, EMU heads into the summer with excitement and alignment.

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Season 8 - Episode 10: Halloween Humor and Hoops Talk

The latest Eastern Insider Podcast Powered by DTE delivered equal parts fun and insight as hosts Greg Steiner and Elena Davis opened the Halloween-themed episode with lighthearted banter before diving into Eastern Michigan's busy athletic slate. The duo reflected on football's narrow loss to Ohio and the team's need to recharge before facing Bowling Green, while spotlighting soccer's crucial 3-2 win over Northern Illinois and volleyball's reverse sweep of Buffalo to stay in MAC contention. With basketball season tipping off, men's head coach Stan Heath outlined his program's new "PITT" identity built on pace, intensity, toughness, and togetherness, while women's head coach Sahar Nusseibeh emphasized leadership, international talent, and a "road warrior" mindset entering year two.

Published on 10/27/2025

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Season 8 - Episode 9: Belcher’s Leadership and Football Returns Home

The latest episode of the Eastern Insider Podcast Powered by DTE showcased a week of determination and progress across Eastern Michigan athletics. Hosts Greg Steiner and Elena Davis opened with updates on EMU soccer's key win over Akron that kept the Eagles in MAC Tournament contention and volleyball's upcoming series against Buffalo. The spotlight centered on senior setter and captain Ashlynn Belcher, who shared her story of transferring from Old Dominion and immediately earning her teammates' respect as a leader. Belcher reflected on her growth, her father's influence as a former Major League pitcher, and her appreciation for the team she calls her favorite of her career. The show also previewed EMU football's return to Rynearson Stadium for a pivotal matchup against defending MAC champion Ohio, part of a packed Made in the Mitten and Band Day celebration expected to draw more than 1,100 band members to campus.

Published on 10/20/2025

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Season 8 - Episode 8: Defensive Strength vs. NIU and Hall of Fame Excellence

The Eastern Insider Podcast Powered by DTE turned its focus to defense and tradition in Episode 8, as hosts Greg Steiner and Elena Davis recapped EMU's hard-fought win over Northern Illinois and previewed the road trip to Miami. Head Coach Chris Creighton praised the Eagles' progress, pointing to improved tackling and execution as keys to sustaining success in conference play. The show also honored two legends entering the E-Club Hall of Fame, men's basketball great John Bowler and women's standout Nikki Knapp, whose careers embodied the competitive spirit that defines Eastern Michigan. With added updates across fall sports, the episode balanced on-field insight with a celebration of athletic legacy in Ypsilanti.

Published on 10/13/2025

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Season 8 - Episode 7: Creighton Preps NIU, Srinivasan Steps Up as Volleyball Leader

Eastern Michigan's latest Eastern Insider Podcast mixed football grit with volleyball leadership. Head Coach Chris Creighton praised his team's aggressive mindset and offensive improvement despite an overtime loss at Buffalo, while previewing Saturday's Car Show Game against Northern Illinois. On the volleyball court, junior captain Surabhi Srinivasan shared how she transitioned from a limited role early in her career to becoming a trusted leader voted in by her teammates. She discussed her growth, balance between humor and focus, and the pride she feels representing EMU both on the court and in the classroom.

Published on 10/6/2025

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