In this episode, we explore what it means to hold onto faith and spiritual conviction, even in the heat of competition when expectation rises and adversity hits. Join Dr. Matt Barker for this episode, as he sits down with Freed-Hardeman Men's Basketball player and Bible major Eli Pounders to discuss his experience of competing at the highest level while staying grounded in purpose. From the locker room to the spotlight, this conversation unpacks how conviction shapes identity, fuels perseverance, and redefines success beyond wins and losses.

In today’s episode, we dive into one of the most defining—and often misunderstood—experiences in modern college athletics: the transfer portal. What does it really mean to leave one team behind and step into a new locker room, new system, and new set of expectations? Join Dr. Matt Barker for this episode, as he sits down with Freed-Hardeman Men's Basketball player Lane Lauderbaugh as he shares firsthand insight into the emotional, mental, and spiritual journey of transferring—wrestling with uncertainty, embracing change, and holding onto purpose through it all.

In this episode of the Playing with a Purpose podcast we dive into a trait every great teammate and leader shares: responsibility. Doing your job sounds simple, but it’s often where games are won or lost, and where character is truly revealed. Throughout the episode, Dr. Matt Barker explores what responsibility looks like on and off the field, why it matters even when no one is watching, and how small moments of discipline build trust with coaches, teammates, and others in your life.