Eastern Michigan Athletics
Podcasts
Season 7 - Episode 1: New Beginnings and Big Wins
Published on 8/26/2024
Published on 8/26/2024
The season seven premiere of the Eastern Insider Podcast, hosted by Greg Steiner and Tom Helmer, sets a vibrant tone for the year ahead, blending light-hearted banter with deep dives into Eastern Michigan University's athletic programs. The episode kicks off with Helmer's amusing recount of a family trip to Disney, where an unexpectedly intense roller coaster ride led to both thrills and spills. This light-hearted start transitions smoothly into a celebration of EMU women's soccer, now under the leadership of new head coach Taylor Clarke.
Clarke's arrival marks a turning point for the program, with the team already off to an impressive 3-0 start. Steiner and Helmer commend the squad's noticeable improvements in conditioning and tactics, reflecting Clarke's vision for a fast-paced, aggressive style of play. Clarke, who has cultivated a close-knit coaching staff that shares a deep personal connection, emphasizes the importance of a cohesive, family-like atmosphere. His strategy of integrating a few key transfers while maintaining the core of the existing team has paid off, as the Eagles soar into the new season with confidence and determination.
The podcast then shifts focus to the highly anticipated football season opener against UMass, a future Mid-American Conference member. The hosts explore the complexities of the matchup, including UMass's rigorous "Thunderstruck drill," designed to maximize the team's speed and agility. Football head coach Chris Creighton, entering his 11th season at EMU, shares insights on the challenges of blending a large group of newcomers with seasoned players, reflecting on his extensive experience in team management from his Division III coaching days.
Creighton also underscores the importance of EMU's core values—belief, excellence, and togetherness—established at the start of his tenure and crucial to the team's resilience and growth. As college football evolves with the rise of NIL and the transfer portal, Creighton remains steadfast in his commitment to nurturing a strong, character-driven program.
Overall, the season premiere of the Eastern Insider Podcast not only entertains but also provides fans with a comprehensive look at what's in store for EMU athletics. With engaging storytelling and in-depth analysis, Steiner and Helmer lay the groundwork for what promises to be an exciting and competitive year across all sports.
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The Eastern Insider Podcast powered by DTE returned with a Labor Day edition that highlighted the opening week of September for EMU Athletics. Hosts Greg Steiner and Elena Davis recapped football's season-opening loss at Texas State and previewed Saturday's home debut against Long Island, with Creighton stressing improved tackling, line play, and consistency while praising quarterback Noah Kim and running back Dontae McMillan. The show also featured senior distance runner Cara Weber, who shared her experience of battling epilepsy, undergoing brain surgery, and growing into a team leader while achieving personal bests on the track.
Published on 9/1/2025
Season 8 of the Eastern Insider Podcast debuted with a big opener, as host Greg Steiner welcomed Head Coach Chris Creighton to preview EMU football's upcoming clash under the San Marcos lights. Entering his 12th season with 51 new faces on the roster, Creighton stressed the team's depth, energy, and culture while embracing the challenges of the modern transfer era. Graduate assistant Elena Davis also joined the show as a new contributor, sitting down with senior Hannah Thompson to discuss EMU women's soccer and her unique journey from four-year starter to high school football kicker. With football, soccer, volleyball, and cross country all underway, the episode captured the excitement of another year of all-access coverage in Ypsilanti.
Published on 8/25/2025
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.
Published on 4/14/2025
Episode 27 of the Eastern Insider Podcast is all about celebration—of the past, present, and future of Eastern Michigan Athletics. Hosts Tom Helmer and Greg Steiner open with a deep dive into the standout performers of the year, naming breakout student-athletes like Christian Henry and Lily Wilhelm, unforgettable moments like Jalen Terry's deep buzzer-beater, and honoring coaches who've reshaped their programs. With one episode left in the season, the duo relives the highlights that defined EMU in 2024–25. They also look ahead to an action-filled weekend, led by Friday night's Spring Football Game at Rynearson Stadium, where fans can catch position battles, donate books for a cause, and snag some EMU swag. Plus, Elena Davis joins for an emotional reflection on cheer, growth, and gratitude as she heads to her final nationals.
Published on 4/7/2025