The CALS Report

Who do you lean on when the days are long and the moments are dark? Southeastern Conference Commissioner Greg Sankey shares with Ryan Bradley why having a strong support system is essential for navigating the challenges of leadership. Whether it’s a mentor, friends outside the industry, or a trusted partner, surrounding yourself with people who can lift you up, offer perspective, and speak truth is key to long-term success. Great leaders don’t just push through tough moments alone—they invest in relationships that keep them grounded and accountable. ?? Watch the full clip and listen to the entire episode of The CALS Report—out now! Links: https://lnkd.in/gsr2Mkd8 This episode of The CALS Report Podcast is brought to you by Teamworks—the Operating System for Sports?. #TheCALSReport #GregSankey #SEC #Leadership #CareerGrowth #Mentorship #CollegeAthletics #sportsleadership

"Being a Sport Administrator Starts with Readiness, Not Just Ambition." Responding to a question from Drew Wiemers, Kent State University Graduate Assistant & CALS24 Intern, Tulane University’s Jana Woodson shares valuable insight on preparing for the responsibilities of being a sport administrator. Leadership isn’t just about wanting the title—it’s about ensuring that your department is in order and your team is ready to operate without you when you need to pivot. Before you tell your AD you’re ready for the role, ask yourself: Is my shop in order? Can my team function if I have to step away? If not, it might not be time just yet. ?? Watch the full clip and listen to the entire episode of The CALS Report—out now! https://lnkd.in/gsr2Mkd8 This episode of The CALS Report Podcast is brought to you by Teamworks—the Operating System for Sports?. #TheCALSReport #TheLobby #JanaWoodson #Leadership #CareerGrowth #CollegeAthletics #SportSupervision #teamworks

Truly enjoyed my time with Jessie and Joe! Give us a listen. Thanks to Will Reece for having us!

"Don’t be enamored by the logo—be enamored by the leadership." ??? Responding to a question from Mississippi State University GA & CALS24 Intern Kat Wallace, University of North Texas Jessie Gardner shares a powerful perspective on career growth in college athletics. She emphasizes the importance of aligning with strong leadership and values rather than just chasing a brand name. Finding the right fit isn’t just about the job in front of you—it’s about making moves that set you up for where you want to go next. ???? ?? Watch the full clip and listen to the entire episode of The CALS Report—out now! https://lnkd.in/gG84Z2ue This episode of The CALS Report Podcast is brought to you by Teamworks—the Operating System for Sports? #TheCALSReport #TheLobby #JessieGardner #Leadership #CareerGrowth #CollegeAthletics #StudentAthleteDevelopment #Teamworks

“Leadership is the ultimate level of responsibility.” The University of Tulsa Athletics COO Joe Fields shares his perspective on what leadership truly means—being intentional about who you’re led by, how you lead others, and the impact you create. Leadership isn’t just another step on a career path; it’s about shaping the lives and careers of student-athletes and staff. For Fields, the key to growing as a leader is simple: results and impact. When you focus on making a difference, opportunities follow. ?? Watch the full clip and listen to the entire episode of The CALS Report—out now https://lnkd.in/gG84Z2ue This episode of The CALS Report Podcast is brought to you by Teamworks—the Operating System for Sports?. #TheCALSReport #TheLobby #JoeFields #Leadership #CollegeAthletics #Tulsa #CareerGrowth #Teamworks

Greg Sankey on Historic SEC Basketball Season & Commitment to Excellence in All Sports ?????? Southeastern Conference Commissioner Greg Sankey reflects on a pivotal conversation early in his tenure when he challenged SEC basketball coaches to set higher expectations. A decade before that conversation, the idea of every SEC softball team making the NCAA Tournament seemed impossible—now it’s the standard. So why not basketball? Watch as Sankey shares how the SEC’s commitment to excellence is paying off across all sports. ?? Episode 6 of The CALS Report is now live presented by Teamworks! Check it out on YouTube or wherever you listen to podcasts. #SEC #ItJustMeansMore #CollegeBasketball #GregSankey #TheCALSReport Ryan Bradley

The 12-Team College Football Playoff: Right Time, Right Move? Southeastern Conference Commissioner Greg Sankey joins Ryan Bradley and shares his perspective on the first-ever 12-team College Football Playoff, explaining why expansion was necessary and how it changed the landscape of the sport. More teams remained in the conversation deeper into the season, bringing new energy and opportunities. But as college football continues to evolve, Sankey highlights the importance of understanding the selection process and ensuring teams are evaluated fairly. Was 12 the right number? What adjustments, if any, should come next? ?? Watch the full clip and join us for the entire episode of The CALS Report presented by Teamworks, dropping today. #GregSankey #SEC #CFBPlayoff #CollegeFootball #TheCALSReport #Leadership #CollegeSports

We are honored to announce that Episode 6 of The CALS Report Podcast is brought to you by our friends Teamworks—the Operating System for Sports?. Trusted by over 5,000 teams, Teamworks is the strategic partner helping collegiate athletic departments navigate change, streamline operations, and deliver an exceptional student-athlete experience. Teamworks is the industry leader in athlete and staff collaboration. With revenue sharing on the horizon, Teamworks GM streamlines decision-making, manages student-athlete contracts, and processes payments—all seamlessly integrated with your Teamworks suite. Learn more at Teamworks.com Teamworks Performance Teamworks Operations Teamworks Recruiting Teamworks Compliance Teamworks Athlete Development Teamworks Tactical Teamworks Branding & NIL Kevin Barefoot Lucy Diaz Ryan Bradley

Very much enjoyed the opportunity to talk shop with other impact makers in our conference! Firm believer that iron sharpens iron and I left The Lobby with some added perspective! Appreciate you Jana Woodson & Joe Fields for the time together! Especially grateful to Will Reece and Ryan Bradley for the leadership and growth opportunities they provide through CALS!

?? The Lobby is Open! ?? ??? New Episode Drops Sunday! ??? We’re gearing up for an incredible episode of The CALS Report, and the conversation starts NOW in the Lobby! ?? Inside This Episode: Three senior leaders from the American Athletic Conference—Joe Fields (Tulsa), Jessie Gardner (North Texas), and Jana Woodson (Tulane)—talk career advice and even answer questions from graduate assistants who interned at CALS 24 in Fayetteville! Thanks Griffin Tucker, Drew Wiemers, Kat Wallace, & Liz Davis ! ?? How to build a successful career in college athletics ?? Leadership strategies for long-term impact ?? The mindset needed to grow & thrive in a competitive industry This episode is packed with insider wisdom, career advice, and leadership strategies—a must-listen for aspiring athletics leaders! #TheCALSReport?#CollegeAthletics?#Leadership?#CareerGrowth?#SportsBusiness?#FutureADs