Today we bring you another edition of our Single Topic Series as we dive into the emerging world of AI and how it fits into the world of the athletic administrator. We head to Pearl Mississippi and speak with Chris Chism who serves as the Superintendent of Schools for the Pearl Public School District who is becoming a go-to resource in the space of AI.

Welcome to another episode of the Hangin’ with the AD Podcast. This week we head west to Texas and sit down with leadership author and speaker Stephen Mackey. The episode kicks off with Mackey outlining his "6 Habits of Championship Character," a blueprint for cultivating student-athletes who pursue excellence in every aspect of life. He shares insights on whether these habits follow a specific order and which habit he believes is the essential starting point when developing champions from scratch.

We close with a discussion on excellence — what it truly means, why it is a non-negotiable for leaders, and why so many people settle for less rather than choosing to pursue excellence consistently.

Whether you're an athletic director, coach, educator, or leader in any space, this episode is packed with practical wisdom, authentic encouragement, and actionable strategies for shaping the next generation of leaders. Let’s settle in and get to know Stephen Mackey

Welcome to a special Masters Week edition of the Hangin’ with the AD Podcast. Today we have the distinct honor of sitting down with a man who stands at the helm of one of the most revered institutions in all of sports—Fred Ridley, Chairman of Augusta National Golf Club.

In this conversation, recorded just days before the azaleas bloom and the world turns its eyes to Augusta, Chairman Ridley takes us inside the inner workings of an event that has become synonymous with tradition, excellence, and vision. We explore what it truly means to lead an organization where the standard is not just maintained—but raised year after year.

We’ll talk about the discipline it takes to manage time when the calendar never slows down, how to lead with purpose at the highest level, and what it takes to turn long-term vision into reality while honoring a legacy that spans generations.

Whether you’re a golf enthusiast, a leader, or simply someone inspired by excellence—you’re in for a rare glimpse behind the green curtain. Let’s settle in and get to know Chairman Fred Ridley.