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In The Front Row Podcast

In The Front Row Podcast

Written by: Banterscape Media
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In the Front Row with Mike Vaccaro is your front row seat to one-on-one conversations with sports figures. Our guests are hall of famers, gold medalists, record holders, trailblazers and more. We share stories from all sports and eras to bring you amazing guests with incredible accounts of the moments that made them the athlete and person they are today.Banterscape Media
Episodes
  • CLARKSTON HINES on Being HUMBLED by Michael Jordan, Playing for Duke and Coach Steve Spurrier
    Jan 25 2026

    Join us as we delve into the inspiring journey of Clarkston Hines, a Chapel Hill native turned Duke football legend. In this captivating interview, Hines shares his early sports experiences, from neighborhood basketball games to his serendipitous one-on-one with Michael Jordan. Discover how his transition from basketball to football led him to shine at Duke under Coach Steve Spurrier, culminating in an impressive football career despite significant challenges, including a torn ACL. Learn about his time with the Buffalo Bills and the World League of American Football, and how his athletic background seamlessly transitioned into a successful business career. Packed with anecdotes, insights, and a touch of nostalgia, this episode is a must-watch for sports enthusiasts and aspiring athletes. Don't miss Clarkston's reflections on leadership, teamwork, and his enduring legacy at Duke.00:00 Introduction and Early Life01:20 High School Football Journey04:16 College Recruitment and Duke Experience05:35 Playing Under Coach Spurrier12:33 Memorable College Moments20:13 Transition to Professional Football24:12 Post-Football Career and Reflections27:19 Final Thoughts and AdviceIn the Front Row Podcast is your front row seat to one-on-one conversations with sports figures. Each episode we go beyond the bio and hear about the stories that made headlines. Our guests are hall of famers, gold medalists, record holders, trailblazers and more. We cover all sports and all eras to bring you amazing guests with incredible accounts of the moments that made them the athlete and person they are today. Join us as our guests share memories of their best, and worst, moments of their journey in sports and in life.

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    38 mins
  • Donovin Darius on Growing up in Camden, Playing for Syracuse, and his AMAZING Career with the Jacksonville Jaguars
    Jan 13 2026

    In this powerful, in-depth conversation, former NFL standout Donovin Darius opens up about his unbelievable journey from Camden, New Jersey to the highest level of professional football. Donovin reflects on his childhood, the obstacles he faced growing up, and how sports became a lifeline that helped him break free from a tough environment. He shares behind-the-scenes stories from his college career at Syracuse, the recruiting process, and the moments that shaped his path to the NFL. The conversation goes deeper into the realities of professional football — injuries, pressure, faith, and identity beyond the game. Donovin explains how his faith carried him through the hardest moments of his career and how he found purpose after football through his foundation and commitment to giving back. This is more than a football story — it’s a story about resilience, faith, and redefining success.👇 Watch until the end for Donovin’s message to young athletes and anyone trying to beat the odds.00:00 Introduction and Early Life02:07 Choosing Syracuse05:20 College Football Journey12:30 Rising to the NFL14:57 NFL Rookie Year and Challenges18:03 Big Hits and Mentorship28:01 Injuries and Reflections29:06 Injuries and Challenges in the NFL30:46 Deciding to Retire33:32 Life After Football38:13 Family and Legacy43:17 Reflections and Future PlansIn the Front Row with Mike Vaccaro is your front row seat to one-on-one conversations with sports figures. Each episode we go beyond the bio and hear about the stories that made headlines. Our guests are hall of famers, gold medalists, record holders, trailblazers and more. We cover all sports and all eras to bring you amazing guests with incredible accounts of the moments that made them the athlete and person they are today. Join us as our guests share memories of their best, and worst, moments of their journey in sports and in life.

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    50 mins
  • FP Santangelo on Playing in the MLB, Influence of Felipe Alou and Finding His Voice in Broadcasting
    Jan 9 2026

    Join us as former MLB player FP Santangelo opens up about his inspiring journey from a young fan in Detroit to a professional baseball player, and eventually a broadcaster. Santangelo shares vivid memories from his career, including stories about childhood inspiration, college baseball, and his time with the Expos, Giants, Dodgers, and A's. He also discusses his transition to broadcasting, the influences of key mentors like Felipe Alou, and his thoughts on current baseball talents and management. This episode provides a deep dive into the highs and lows of a remarkable professional journey.


    00:00 Introduction and Guest Welcome

    00:20 Early Life and Baseball Beginnings

    02:22 High School and College Baseball Journey

    06:27 Draft Day and Minor League Struggles

    08:02 Major League Debut and Career Highlights

    11:34 Influential Managers and Playing Multiple Positions

    16:46 Switch Hitting and Memorable Moments

    19:51 Montreal Expos and Transition to Nationals

    23:01 Fond Memories of Montreal and Ottawa

    24:07 End of Career on the West Coast

    25:48 Postseason and 9/11 Impact

    30:09 Transition to Broadcasting

    33:42 Working with Bob Carpenter

    37:01 Return to the Giants

    43:35 Advice and Reflections


    In the Front Row with Mike Vaccaro is your front row seat to one-on-one conversations with sports figures. Each episode we go beyond the bio and hear about the stories that made headlines. Our guests are hall of famers, gold medalists, record holders, trailblazers and more. We cover all sports and all eras to bring you amazing guests with incredible accounts of the moments that made them the athlete and person they are today. Join us as our guests share memories of their best, and worst, moments of their journey in sports and in life.

    Show More Show Less
    46 mins
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