In this powerful episode of Who Thought We’d Be Here?, Brian Galligan is back again to talk about what it really means to rebuild yourself from the ground up. From battling insecurity and addiction to launching the Ikonical podcast and Top Dog Coverage, Brian opens up about the mindset shifts that helped him transform his pain into power.

We talk about what happens when you stop chasing “Plan B” and finally make your dream your “Plan A.” From quitting drinking to finding clarity in purpose, Brian shares how staying curious, disciplined, and passionate helped him turn his creative vision into a reality.

The conversation dives deep into:
🔥 The power of reinvention and personal growth
🏈 How football and scouting became his purpose
💬 Why authentic storytelling and integrity matter in podcasting and media
💡 How to keep learning and evolving at any age
🧠 What it takes to stay disciplined after overcoming addiction
❤️ Why vulnerability and connection are the keys to creativity
🎯 How to balance ambition with presence and gratitude

Brian also breaks down the “Who, What, Where, When, Why” method he uses to ask better questions — a masterclass in interviewing and human connection that every podcaster or creator can learn from.

This episode isn’t just about football or podcasting — it’s about how to show up for yourself when no one else does. It’s about turning setbacks into stepping stones and staying true to your values even when it’s not the popular route.

If you’re chasing a dream, reinventing yourself, or trying to find meaning in the chaos — this episode will light you up.

Check out Brian's NFL scouting coverage and podcast here:
https://topdawgcoverage.com/podcast
https://www.instagram.com/topdawgcoverage

And the Ikonical brand here:
https://ikonicalwear.com/
https://www.instagram.com/ikonicalwear

00:00 – Welcome Back
03:00 – The Story Behind Ikonical
08:15 – Turning Passion Into a Career
11:45 – Escaping Negativity & Comfort Zones
16:00 – Discovering Purpose Through Football
22:00 – Integrity Over Clickbait
28:45 – Hot Takes & Sports Media Debates
34:30 – Accountability and Respect in the Industry
39:00 – The Power of Mentorship
44:00 – Staying a Lifelong Learner
50:00 – Childhood Struggles & Feeling Underestimated
58:30 – Quitting Drinking & Rebuilding Focus
1:03:00 – Vulnerability and Storytelling in Podcasting
1:10:30 – The Art of Asking Better Questions
1:18:00 – Authenticity and Friendship
1:25:00 – Learning to Be Present & Read the Room
1:31:00 – What’s Next for Iconical and Top Dog Coverage
1:38:00 – Behind the Scenes of College Scouting
1:46:00 – The Passion and Energy of Game Day
1:53:00 – Final Reflections on Growth and Purpose

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"Who Thought We'd Be Here?" is hosted by Steven Aigner and John Pugh.

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