Answering the Call
Get a front-row seat to the passion, talent and generosity behind Texas A&M Athletics with Answering the Call — the official podcast of the 12th Man Foundation. From current student-athletes and coaches to former students and dedicated staff, you'll hear how donor support makes a lasting impact, both on and off the field. Whether you're part of the Aggie family or curious about what sets Texas A&M apart, this podcast brings you closer to the heart of the maroon and white. Join us for meaningful conversations and unforgettable stories! Learn more or become a member at 12thmanfoundation.com.
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Mitch Cole | S3 E11
<p>Aggie Men’s Basketball Associate Head Coach Mitch Cole sits down with Ivy Robinson to reflect on his return to Aggieland as part of head coach Bucky McMillan's staff. From playing at Montana State University Billings to coaching at every level of college basketball, Coach Cole discusses how his experiences have shaped his coaching philosophy and the fast-paced style of play he and Coach McMillan believe in. He also looks back on his time at Texas A&M during the memorable 2015-16 season, which featured an SEC regular-season championship and a historic run to the Sweet 16, and shares his pe...
Mackenzie Mgbako | S3 E10
<p>Texas A&M Men’s Basketball student-athlete Mackenzie Mgbako joins Ivy Robinson to reflect on the path that led him to College Station. The New Jersey native and former Big Ten Freshman of the Year shares what drew him to Coach Bucky McMillan’s style of play, how he stayed grounded through an unexpected injury and why he is grateful to be back on the court with his teammates this season. Hear how he is using his platform to make a difference through his foundation, his perspective on the culture of Aggie Men’s Basketball and why he is gratef...
Greg Ploss | S3 E9
<p>Longtime 12th Man Foundation donor and Texas A&M Athletics supporter Greg Ploss joins Ivy Robinson to share the journey that shaped his passion for the Aggies. Greg reflects on his career, his role as plant manager of Chemical Process and Production Inc., how his children’s time at Texas A&M renewed his connection to Aggie Athletics and the experiences that inspired him to give back through the 12th Man Foundation. Hear what motivated his family’s significant investment toward the Greg Ploss Family Volleyball Student-Athlete Suite and why supporting Aggie athletes and their success is so meaningful to h...
Alex Caruso | S3 E8
<p>Texas A&M Basketball legend and two-time NBA champion Alex Caruso joins Ivy Robinson to reflect on his journey from ball boy at Reed Arena to a successful professional basketball career. In this episode, Alex shares memories of growing up in Aggieland, the phone call that changed his life and the historic NCAA Tournament run Aggie fans still talk about today. He also opens up about starting the Alex Caruso Foundation, his passion for giving back to the Bryan-College Station community and how donor support provides life-changing opportunities for young athletes.</p>
Lyle Hemphill | S3 E7
<p>Texas A&M Football Defensive Coordinator Lyle Hemphill sits down with Ivy Robinson to share the story behind his path to Aggieland, shaped by his father’s career as a head football coach, a detour toward law school and a nearly 20-year friendship with Mike Elko that ultimately brought him to College Station. Lyle reflects on the coaching mentors who influenced him along the way, his defensive philosophy and what he believes makes Texas A&M unique. He also shares what he’s most grateful for after a career built on relationships and why he’s thankful for the suppor...
Holmon Wiggins | S3 E6
<p>Texas A&M Football Offensive Coordinator Holmon Wiggins joins Ivy Robinson to reflect on the experiences that have shaped his career in football. A former student-athlete at New Mexico, Wiggins shares his journey from Los Angeles to coaching in the SEC and the path that led him to Texas A&M. He discusses how his playing experience influences the way he pours into the next generation, provides insight into the Aggie offense and its progress throughout the offseason, and shares his appreciation for the support that has driven success and provided elite resources for Aggie Football.</p>
Tommy Moffitt | S3 E5
<p>Texas A&M Director of Football Strength & Conditioning Tommy Moffitt joins Ivy Robinson to discuss the people, places and experiences that shaped his journey to College Station. After 21 seasons at LSU, an unexpected phone call opened the door to a new chapter on Coach Mike Elko’s staff. Coach Moffitt breaks down the philosophy behind the “Moffitt Method,” shares why Texas A&M’s athletic facilities are unlike anything he’s seen, offers his perspective on what stands out about this year’s roster and reflects on what it means to have the unwavering support of the 12th Man.</p>
Jay Graham | S3 E4
<p>Texas A&M former student and loyal 12th Man Foundation donor Jay Graham '92 sits down with Ivy Robinson for a conversation about resilience, Aggie Athletics and the importance of giving back. Jay and his wife April took their philanthropy to an unprecedented level by committing a $25 million lead gift to the Centennial Campaign, a historic capital fundraising effort launched by the 12th Man Foundation and Texas A&M Athletics in April 2022. In this episode, Jay reflects on his time as a student, his passion for sports, his professional career and service to Texas A&M University. He also...
Wilkin Formby | S3 E3
<p>Texas A&M offensive lineman Wilkin Formby joins Ivy Robinson for a conversation about his football journey and path to Aggieland. Wilkin shares the story behind his decision to transfer to A&M, his adjustment to life in Texas and how the relationships he's building on and off the field have made the transition feel seamless. He also provides his perspective on the culture of Aggie Football, his goals beyond the sport and why he's grateful for the resources and support that 12th Man Foundation donors and season ticket holders provide to Aggie student-athletes.</p>
Matt Salvaggio | S3 E2
<p>Texas A&M Football Coordinator of Player Development Matt Salvaggio joins Ivy Robinson to share the journey that took him from a lifelong Aggie fan in Bryan, Texas, to a key member of the Aggie Football staff. Matt reflects on how an unexpected passion turned into a career, what it means to mentor student-athletes beyond the game and how the support of 12th Man Foundation donors helps provide the resources and opportunities that shape their success on and off the field.</p>
