Episode 310 of the Talkin’ G-MAC Podcast, hosted by Katie Gilhooly, welcomes Rachel McCool following her election as the Division II National Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC) Chair. In this episode, McCool reflects on her experience at the NCAA Convention, the responsibility of representing student-athletes on a national level, and the goals she has set for her term.

McCool discusses the importance of student-athlete voices in legislative conversations, emphasizing how meaningful it is for representatives to feel heard and valued in high-level meetings. She shares how the convention provided valuable networking opportunities and insight into the decision-making processes that shape Division II athletics.

Throughout the conversation, McCool highlights her passion for leadership development and community engagement, both of which will be priorities during her time as chair. She also acknowledges the significant time commitment required for SAAC involvement and the overwhelming support she has received from her campus and conference community.

Episode 310 offers an inside look at the impact student-athlete leadership can have at the national level and reinforces the importance of advocacy, service, and engagement within Division II athletics.

Episode 309 of the Talkin’ G-MAC Podcast, hosted by Katie Gilhooly, features two guests from Walsh University as the Cavaliers reflect on their recent recognition at the NCAA Convention. The episode includes conversations with Sophia Rosa, Student-Athlete Advisory Committee president at Walsh, and Josh Ruiz, coordinator of veteran affairs, highlighting the university’s Award of Excellence for its Salute to Service efforts.

Rosa discusses Walsh’s Cav Salute Initiative, a comprehensive community service project designed to honor veterans through campus-wide engagement. She shares how 100 percent participation from all athletic teams, along with strong support from coaches and administrators, helped make the initiative a success. From student-athletes wearing patches to honor veterans, to events such as a Patriot Day home run derby that raised funds and awareness, Rosa emphasizes the pride student-athletes feel in being part of something with lasting impact.

Ruiz, a Marine Corps veteran, provides perspective on the significance of the Salute to Service initiative and its importance for both veterans and the broader campus community. He reflects on the role education and awareness play in helping students better understand military service, as well as the value of collaboration across departments to support veterans and their families. Ruiz also highlights events focused on mental health and suicide awareness, underscoring the meaningful reach of Walsh’s efforts.

Episode 308 of the Talkin’ G-MAC Podcast, hosted by Katie Gilhooly, features a conversation with Chris Cross, Vice President of Athletics at Cedarville University. The episode explores Cedarville’s deep commitment to academic excellence, its distinct mission, and the university’s approach to balancing competitive athletics with faith-driven education.

Cross reflects on his professional journey, beginning in athletic training before transitioning into compliance and ultimately into athletic leadership. He highlights how relationships, integrity, and mission-centered decision-making have shaped his path and continue to guide Cedarville’s athletic department.

Throughout the conversation, Cross emphasizes the university’s longstanding academic achievements — including receiving the NCAA President’s Award for Academic Excellence for 13 consecutive years — and discusses how culture, intentional hiring, and the integration of faith play a crucial role in the success of Cedarville’s student-athletes. He also shares insights on the continuing growth of the GMAC, rising competitiveness across the conference, and the importance of preparing athletes to represent Christ well in all areas of life.

The episode concludes with a look at the exciting developments happening on Cedarville’s campus, from new construction projects to record student enrollment, reflecting a period of momentum and growth for the university.