In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura sit down with Bennett Stirtz, Iowa men’s basketball guard and one of the most intriguing voices on the roster, for a wide-ranging conversation that goes far beyond the box score.

Bennett opens up about his journey to Iowa, growing up in Liberty, Missouri, in a competitive, all-boys household, and what it was like being coached by his dad throughout high school. He shares how an early wake-up call about work ethic changed the trajectory of his career, why he didn’t play AAU until later than most, and how countless early mornings in the gym shaped both his game and mindset.

The conversation also dives into Iowa’s early-season challenges, including tough road environments, narrow losses, and what this group is learning as they grow together under Coach McCollum. Bennett talks leadership, basketball IQ, embracing hard coaching, and what it really means to “fit the culture” at Iowa — on and off the court.

Plus, things take a fun turn with stories about siblings, other sports he played growing up, March Madness memories, and a teaser of a potential new fan-driven fundraising idea that Hawkeye fans won’t want to miss.

Whether you’re following Iowa basketball closely or just love hearing the personal stories behind the jersey, this episode delivers insight, honesty, and a glimpse into the work ethic that defines Hawkeye hoops.

🎧 Tune in, subscribe, and join the Talkin’ Hawks community as we head into the offseason.

In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura break down Iowa’s emotional walk-off win over Michigan State—including Drew Stevens’ senior day game-winner—and reflect on the heartfelt sideline moments surrounding longtime PA announcer Mark Abbott’s retirement and Kelsey Laverdiere’s final game in Kinnick. They also spotlight the unsung heroes of special teams and the offensive resilience shown in the fourth quarter.Men’s basketball standout Cooper Koch joins the pod to discuss Iowa’s undefeated start, his unique recruiting story, growing up in a competitive hoops household, and the cultural shift under Coach McCollum. He gives insight into leadership, conditioning, strategic defensive changes, and the intentional connection the team is building with students and fans. The episode closes with a preview of the upcoming matchup against Nebraska, highlighting key adjustments and what to watch for as the Hawks prepare to carry momentum into the rivalry game.

In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura unpack another gut-punch finish as they break down the USC heartbreaker, from the “Heartbreak Kids” vibes and missed breaks to the toe-tap drama, non-calls, and why they still believe this might be Iowa’s best team since 2015. They revisit the electric “Philly Special” moment, highlight unsung standouts like freshman tight end DJ Vonnahme, and talk about how this group can respond, reset, and finish the season strong with a statement against Michigan State.

Then the crew flips to the offensive side of the ball with wide receiver Seth Anderson, diving into his journey to Iowa City, his days as a multi-sport athlete in track and wrestling, and what ultimately pulled him out of the transfer portal and into the Hawkeye family. Seth opens up about learning the game from his dad, former NFL receiver “Flipper” Anderson, balancing a Business and Enterprise Leadership major with Big Ten football, and why his quiet, media-trained demeanor off the field doesn’t stop him from talking a little trash between the lines.

Whether you’re still stinging from USC or already looking ahead to Michigan State, this episode delivers film-room insight, locker-room culture, and a closer look at one of Iowa’s playmakers on the rise. 🎧 New episodes every Monday—subscribe and join the conversation!

In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura open with a raw breakdown of Iowa’s last-second loss to Oregon—weather woes, special teams swings, and what the fumble/two-point sequence meant for momentum—before zooming out on why this team is still right there with the nation’s best. They spotlight “unsung hero” OC Tim Lester for the gutsy final-drive calls, then pivot to wrestling season with Iowa great Alex Marinelli. Marinelli traces his path from Miamisburg, Ohio, to the Black & Gold, talks multi-sport toughness, coaching the next generation, and how the mindset on the mat translates to football. The show closes with a measured look ahead to USC: where Iowa can win in the trenches, how to clean up the details, and why a 9–3 finish and 10th win bowl path are still on the table. Go Hawks.

In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Laura and Matt sit down with Jaxon Rexroth—Cedar Rapids native, Xavier alum, and Hawkeye linebacker—to talk identity, mindset, and what it means to grow up black and gold. From family roots just up the road to the reality of earning your shot as a preferred walk-on, Jaxon opens up about choosing Iowa, embracing a position change, and finding his voice on special teams and defense.

He shares the locker-room standard, “championship effort, attitude, and toughness”—and why the defense lives by the “mind of a goldfish” after a big play (good or bad). We also get the human side: siblings on campus, faith shaping the team’s togetherness, and the unlikely backstory of a future doctor who also grew up skiing, wakeboarding, and learning resilience the hard way.

Then the crew looks ahead to Oregon in Kinnick, breaking down vibe, matchups, and where Iowa can assert itself without getting lost in numbers—just the culture, the details, and the belief that travel, noise, or narratives don’t change who the Hawks are. Plus: we’re continuing the Q&As—drop your questions so we can bring them to the next episode.🎧 New episodes every Monday—subscribe and join the conversation!#TalkinHawks #Hawkeyes #IowaFootball #B1G #SwarmUp #Kinnick #HawkeyeNation

In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura celebrate a dominant 41–3 Iowa victory over Minnesota — keeping Floyd of Rosedale right where he belongs in Iowa City. The energy inside Kinnick was electric, and the Hawks delivered one of their most complete performances of the season across offense, defense, and special teams.

Then, defensive back Deshaun Lee joins the show for a fun and insightful conversation about his journey from Detroit to Iowa, what it’s like playing under Phil Parker, and the mindset that drives him both on and off the field. From his competitive upbringing and love of the Lions to his dream of one day opening a restaurant, Deshaun’s personality shines through in this can’t-miss interview.

We also do a deep dive into the comment section, which you won't want to miss - especially since Big 10 Conference might be on the horizon.

Whether you’re a lifelong Hawkeye fan or just love seeing players’ personalities off the field, this episode brings heart, humor, and plenty of black-and-gold pride.

🎧 New episodes every Monday—subscribe and join the conversation!#TalkinHawks #GoHawks #IowaFootball #Hawkeyes #BigTen #FloydOfRosedale

In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura celebrate a massive win over Penn State under the lights at Kinnick before turning their attention to the upcoming matchup with Minnesota. From the electric atmosphere in the “stripe-out” stadium to key defensive stops and Marky G’s clutch performance, they break down what made this one of the season’s most memorable nights in Iowa City.

Then, the conversation shifts to basketball as the VandeBergs sit down with new Iowa men’s basketball coach Ben McCollum. Born in Iowa City and back to lead the Hawkeyes, McCollum opens up about his journey—from Storm Lake to Northwest Missouri State to Drake—and the philosophies that shaped his coaching style. He shares lessons on leadership, competitiveness, and family, and gives fans a glimpse into rebuilding the Iowa program from the ground up.

Whether you bleed black and gold or just love a good comeback story, this episode blends football adrenaline with hoops insight and plenty of Hawkeye pride.

🎧 New episodes drop every Monday—subscribe and join the conversation!

In this episode of Talkin’ Hawks with the VandeBergs, Matt and Laura break down Iowa’s dominant shutout win over Wisconsin and look ahead to a pivotal matchup against a reeling Penn State team. Defensive back TJ Hall joins the show for an exclusive interview, sharing insight on the Hawkeyes' mindset, his growth in the secondary, and when he decided to focus on football.

Matt and Laura also dive into the postgame drama around James Franklin’s firing at Penn State, reflecting on the Nittany Lions’ unexpected three-game skid and the fan unrest that’s shaken the program.

From defensive linemen grabbing interceptions to a screen game firing on all cylinders, this episode covers:

• Iowa’s smothering defense and complete shutdown of Wisconsin’s offense

• Mark Gronowski’s resilience in the pocket and RPO progress

• Praise for Reece Vander Zee, Xavier Williams, and a gritty offensive line

• T.J. Hall’s continued dominance on the outside—and why quarterbacks avoid his side

• The Big Ten Championship path: what Iowa needs to clinch a spot

• Why Penn State’s collapse might be more about mentality than matchups

Don’t miss the laughs, analysis, and stories behind the stats— Oh, and bring your raincoat—this next night game at Kinnick might get wet.

🎧 New episodes drop every Monday. Subscribe and join the conversation!