In this episode, Jeff Mack, a former Wisconsin Badger linebacker, shares insights about his upbringing, the influence of his family, and the transition from high school to college football. He discusses the balance between academics and athletics, the pressure of living up to his father's legacy, and the importance of teamwork and accountability in sports. Jeff reflects on his experiences with injuries, recruitment, and the lessons learned throughout his journey as an athlete and a father. In this conversation, Jeff Mack shares his journey from college football at Wisconsin to navigating injuries, transitioning to professional sports, and ultimately rebranding himself in the banking industry. He discusses the mental and physical challenges of recovery, the importance of support from teammates, and the lessons learned from setbacks. Jeff also reflects on fatherhood, offering insights on raising daughters and the values he hopes to instill in them. He provides financial advice for young athletes, emphasizing the importance of capital conservation and the skills gained from sports that can be applied in life beyond athletics.

On this episode of The Dadger, former Wisconsin defensive lineman Ethan Hemer joins the show to talk about earning everything the hard way.

From choosing to walk on at Wisconsin to battling through early challenges, earning a scholarship, and making his first career start — Ethan shares what it really takes to survive and thrive in Big Ten football.

We also dive into his career that led him to Michigan State, navigating major college decisions, and how NIL has reshaped team culture, recruiting, and the future of college athletics. Now working in the NIL space himself, Ethan gives an inside look at misconceptions, governance, revenue sharing, and where the game is headed.

Beyond football, we talk about life after the game — the practice squad grind, career transitions, and what fatherhood has taught him about toughness, sensitivity, and raising strong, independent daughters.

This is a conversation about resilience, leadership, adapting to change, and staying grounded through it all.Ep

On this episode of The Dadger, we sit down with former Wisconsin Badger Kyle Zuliger to talk about strength — and not just the kind you build in the weight room.

Kyle shares his journey from multi-sport athlete to powerlifting standout, the recruitment process that led him to Wisconsin, and the mental toughness required to adapt when his role shifted from safety to finding his place on a Big Ten roster.

But the story doesn’t stop with football.

We dive into life after the game — transitioning into firefighting, building a business rooted in passion, balancing family life, and the lessons fatherhood has taught him about resilience, consistency, and leading by example.

This is a conversation about adapting, staying disciplined, and redefining success long after the final whistle.

If you care about Wisconsin football, life after sports, or raising strong kids in today’s world — this one’s for you.