Rising To The Occasion

Josh Mahler is a lifelong sports fanatic whose passion for competition and storytelling was forged at an early age. Born in Sioux City, Iowa, and raised in Southern Indiana for much of his childhood, Josh grew up immersed in sports—both as a fan and an athlete. From college football Saturdays to hockey nights, NFL Sundays, and the intensity of MMA, sports were always the backdrop of his life.

That passion wasn’t limited to the couch. Josh played football and wrestled all the way through high school, experiences that shaped his understanding of toughness, preparation, and what it truly takes to compete. Those years instilled a deep appreciation for the grind behind the scenes—an insight that now fuels his analysis and commentary.

A die-hard Oklahoma fan since a young age, Josh turned his fandom into a profession. He currently covers Oklahoma sports for Oklahoma at the Voice of College Football, one of the premier college football podcast networks, where he delivers in-depth breakdowns, film analysis, and big-picture discussions on the Sooners and the evolving landscape of college football. He is also a contributor to OU Insider, further solidifying his presence in the Oklahoma sports media space.

Known for his authentic voice, strong opinions, and fan-first approach, Josh blends a player’s perspective with a lifelong fan’s passion—making him a trusted and engaging host for audiences who live and breathe college sports.

Jeremy Russell is a lifelong sports fanatic whose passion for the game was forged early and never let up. Born in Sioux City, Iowa, and raised in a small town nearby, Jeremy grew up immersed in sports culture—both as a fan and as a competitor. From a young age, his world revolved around watching and playing sports, with a particular love for hockey that has defined his fandom ever since.

As a kid, Jeremy devoured everything sports-related, especially the NHL, NFL, MMA, USHL, and college hockey. Hockey quickly became more than just a favorite—it became part of his identity. That passion translated onto the field and ice, where he competed in football and hockey, while also showcasing his athletic versatility in track and field, specializing in discus and shot put, all the way through high school.

Jeremy’s journey into sports media started not in front of the camera, but behind it. He began his podcasting career as a behind-the-scenes contributor for Rising To The Occasion, learning the production side of the industry and gaining a deep understanding of what makes compelling sports content. His knowledge, work ethic, and natural feel for the game eventually pushed him into an on-camera role, where he worked his way up to become a co-host.

Today, Jeremy brings a fan-first perspective rooted in real experience—both as an athlete and as someone who’s lived and breathed sports his entire life. Whether he’s breaking down hockey, reacting to big moments, or bringing raw, authentic energy to a show, Jeremy Russell represents the voice of the true sports junkie: knowledgeable, passionate, and unapologetically all-in.