Episode Summary:
In this dynamic crossover episode, guest host Riley Dahlquist steps in to spotlight a special roundtable of Titan athletes from soccer, gymnastics, and basketball. Together, they reflect on what it means to live the “Gold Standard” both on and off the court. From caffeine-charged locker rooms and travel memories to emotional support and team culture, this episode celebrates the vibrant, interconnected community of UW-Oshkosh Athletics. Laughter, leadership, late-night study sessions, and sideline support all blend into one shared mission: push each other to grow and bring contagious energy every day.

Key Topics:

⭐ The Gold Standard, Redefined:
Each team tailors the “Gold Standard” to their own identity—whether it’s a signed list of values, relentless energy, or showing up for teammates in and out of competition.

🏐 Titans Backing Titans:
From standing-room-only volleyball games to gymnastics quad meets and road game road trips, athletes share their favorite memories of supporting each other—and how that energy lifts entire teams.

🤝 Culture Off the Court:
Whether it’s spontaneous breakfasts at Blackhawk, open-invite study sessions, or campfires after finals, these Titans believe trust is built through connection outside the game.

🔥 Compete Hard, Love Harder:
From caffeine highs and bench warnings to emotional hugs from teammates' parents, the athletes emphasize competing with joy, intensity, and deep appreciation for each other.

⚽ Team Dynamics & Leadership:
Gymnastics, soccer, and basketball each offer a unique take on culture—from unconditional support and evolving standards to the power of freshmen stepping up as leaders.

🎭 Coach Quirks & Catchphrases:
Whiteboards get broken. Fist bumps mean “you did it right.” And sometimes… the answer to the ref is “Built on Bond.” From fiery halftime speeches to silent head nods, the coaches of UW-Oshkosh are as memorable as they are impactful.

Final Takeaway:
Leadership doesn’t have one look. Success isn’t one moment. And support—between teammates, sports, and friends—is the heartbeat of the Titan family.

Guest: Olivia Breunig, UW-Oshkosh Volleyball Alum

Episode Summary:
In this reflective and uplifting episode, Liv Brining joins Outside the Pins to look back on her full-circle journey as a student-athlete at UW-Oshkosh. As she prepares to begin occupational therapy school at UW-Madison, Liv opens up about what truly shaped her experience—finding her voice, embracing her role, and leading with authenticity.

Key Topics:

🗣️ Finding Her Voice: How psychological safety and team trust unlocked Liv’s confidence as both a person and a leader.

🏐 The Oshkosh Fit: From Sauk Prairie and Capital Volleyball to committing during the COVID era—how she knew UW-Oshkosh was home.

🔁 Freshman to Senior: Lessons from moving through roles, managing self-worth, and building leadership through example and consistency.

💪 Culture of Support: The impact of mentorship, team standards, and campus resources—from strength coaches to nutritionists.

🧪 Research Recognition: A deep dive into Liv’s award-winning research on hydration and performance—and how it elevated both her academics and athlete identity.

💭 Leadership with Balance: Why great leaders listen, collaborate, and make space for joy—even while holding high standards.

🎓 Advice to Future Titans: Be present, work hard, and don’t let your role define your value—you are more than the game.

Closing Thoughts:
Liv’s story is one of purpose, perspective, and presence. Her journey is a reminder that the strongest leaders don’t lead alone—and that every role has value when it’s played with heart.

Episode Summary:

In this heartfelt episode, Abby Fregien joins Outside the Pins to reflect on her journey through UW-Oshkosh Volleyball—both on and off the court. With graduation around the corner and grad school on the horizon, Abby opens up about what truly shaped her experience: family, faith, and finding her authentic voice as a leader.

Key Topics:

• 🏐 Growth through Adversity: How unconditional love and a “we over me” team culture create the foundation for meaningful development.
• 👟 The Oshkosh Journey: From Waukesha West to club volleyball to committing to UW-Oshkosh—how she found her fit and fell in love with the program.
• 💡 Values that Stick: Abby dives into her faith, family ties, and how gratitude and presence became daily practices.
• 🌱 Authentic Leadership: The moment she stopped trying to emulate others and leaned into leading by example—with kindness, clarity, and work ethic.
• 🎓 Academic Balance: Lessons from juggling elite athletics and earning her spot in UW-Madison’s Doctor of Physical Therapy program.
• 😂 Freshman Mishaps: A laugh-out-loud story of getting lost on a preseason trip—with no phones, wild outfits, and an A&W rejection.
• 🎯 Advice for Future Titans: Don’t wish away the hard moments—make memories, take chances, and show up as your full self.

Closing Thoughts:
Abby’s story is one of consistency, compassion, and quiet strength. Whether you’re a student-athlete, coach, or simply someone chasing your next chapter, this episode is packed with wisdom and warmth.