We close out season four of The Back 9 with an episode that simply could not be more relevant and more important for our time. We visit with author, life coach and old friend Morgan Rich for a thought-provoking conversation on modern masculinity and what it means to be a healthy alpha male. We weigh the balancing act of how to be competitive and assertive with being emotionally grounded. We explore how men can move beyond outdated “tough guy” personas to embrace authenticity, vulnerability and self-awareness in order to discover our true strength within. It’s a conversation that shows us how to incorporate mindfulness into our actions, to improve relationships, to create more intimacy and connection and to be more present in every moment of our lives. So join us for a wonderful inquiry into what it means to be a healthy 21st century man, on this edition of the Back 9.



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On this episode of The Back 9 we host a true virtuoso in Brad Gemeinhardt, Principal French Hornist at the Metropolitan Opera, for a truly introspective conversation about nurturing one’s dreams, making a commitment to one’s craft, and finding one’s true calling. Brad shares his remarkable journey, from discovering his passion and talent for the French horn at a young age, to the work he put in to conquer the fiercely competitive world of professional orchestras. Along the way, we discuss the similarities between elite artists and elite athletes, the importance of resilience, and the joys and challenges of raising children – and nourishing their dreams – from the perspective of a highly accomplished, completely dedicated performer. It’s a refreshing and insightful perspective on what it takes to pursue your passion, wherever it may lead, on this edition of the Back 9.



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It’s not every day that we get to visit with a 9-time Pro Bowler and 4-time All-Pro NFL icon, but even beyond the accolades, Ruben Brown is just a great hang. Ruben played 13 seasons in the NFL, including in a Super Bowl, yet remains as down-to-earth a guy as one could hope to meet. In this episode, Ruben weighs in on the NFL season ahead, but maybe more importantly he details the challenge of redefining life after football. Ruben talks us through the transition from the wonderful camaraderie and intense grind that defines the sport, to finding new passions in retirement, all while staying connected with his roots and embracing the role of a dedicated father. It’s a candid, optimistic look at a superstar’s life after the cheering stops, so whether you're a football fan or simply interested in stories of resilience and reinvention, this conversation with Ruben Brown will leave you inspired and eager for more to explore on the Back 9.



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On this episode of "The Back Nine," we visit with our long-lost friend Mike Schopp, the incredibly sharp and incisive voice of Buffalo sports radio. But Mike’s insights go well beyond Western New York and the usual sports-talk banter. He opens up about the evolution of his career in an extremely relatable way, from the pressures of proving himself in early days to embracing a more authentic approach to career and life-balance. Mike shares personal stories about how fatherhood and life experience have shaped his perspective on his investment in his professional life and his ever-changing role as a husband, father and family guy. And he offers well-considered insights into how to stay passionate and in one’s own integrity, even as the game—and life—changes.

So join us for an episode of guy talk for smart people, on this edition of The Back 9.

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As part of each season, we provide episodes that serve as resources for our Back 9 community, but we’ve never done it like we do on this episode. We visit with Dr. Michael Barber, the Medical Director and Lead Cardiologist at Colorado’s Strata Med, a resort facility dedicated to providing primary health care, rather than primary sick care. Dr. Barber talks about how his unique health issues led him away from a fast-paced career in traditional western medicine to begin incorporating more holistic and eastern medicine into his practice. Through one of our personal stories, we explore the evolving landscape of health care, and how integrative medicine promotes lasting wellness. It’s a provocative episode, and one that could have you rethinking your approach, to life on the Back 9.



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Instagram: @Back9_Podcast

Friends, on this episode of the Back 9 we take a look at how Back Niners can keep their relationships healthy and connected. We’re joined by therapists Colette Fehr and Laura Bowman, the sharp and astute hosts of the "Insights from the Couch" podcast. Together, we take on the emotional hurdles that often accompany midlife relationships, and how partners sometimes create distance between them. Colette and Laura share their expertise on preserving emotional intimacy, navigating midlife changes, and the critical role of clear communication—whether it’s about finances, relationships, or the objectives we have for our shared and individual lives.

It's a conversation that is occasionally uncomfortable, but always relatable, and filled with the humor and thought-provoking moments that you’ve come to expect on the Back 9.

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Instagram: @Back9_Podcast

In this electrifying episode of "The Back 9," we explore the extraordinary life of Danny Heinsohn, a man who turned a devastating diagnosis into a powerful narrative of hope and achievement. At just 23, Danny faced a brain tumor diagnosis that altered his life and threatened to derail his dreams. Instead of surrendering, he leaned in, channeling his energy into finding strength in unexpected places, and reshaping his life’s path toward even larger dreams than he’d had previously.

Danny’s story is not just about survival; it’s about thriving against the backdrop of adversity. Discover how he found solace and strength through cycling and moving meditation. Learn about his passionate work with the nonprofit he created and dedicated to supporting young cancer survivors. And hear how he has challenged himself by lining up 25 epic challenges to celebrate his 25th year of remission. Danny’s tale is a stirring reminder of the power of determination and the human spirit’s capacity for renewal. It’s something we celebrate on this Episode of the Back 9.

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So a comedian walks into a podcast studio. At least he does on this episode of The Back 9. And it’s not just any comedian, it’s quite possibly the world’s only lawyer-turned-cruise director-turned comedian. He’s Mark Christopher, and if that premise isn’t funny enough, Mark provides a ton of laughs as he shares how he found his unique path to his passion, and how he invested in loss in order to chase his dream. Along the way there are some fascinating insights about the art of writing a joke, how to engage a reluctant audience, and the importance of observing human nature, and how those all add up to finding more humor in the world around us.

So call in the dogs and get ready to giggle, on this Episode of the Back 9.

Contact Dennis & Josh:
Instagram: @Back9_Podcast