Latest ‘Powering UToledo’ Podcast Delves Deep Into Rocket Athletics

March 13, 2025 | Athletics, News, UToday, Alumni
By Staff



The third episode of The University of Toledo’s new podcast, “Powering UToledo,” is now available and examines the many facets of the University’s intercollegiate athletic program amid a changing landscape.

Hosts UToledo Interim President Matt Schroeder and award-winning TV and media host Kristi K. Hoffman speak with Bryan B. Blair, vice president and director of athletics at The University of Toledo. They explore the dynamic changes and successes within Rocket Athletics over the past three years, highlighting key achievements such as winning the Cartwright Award for excellence in academics, athletics and citizenship, and the integration of academics with athletics.

Promotional graphic for The University of Toledo's new podcast, “Powering UToledo.”  Image includes a photo of the podcast hosts, UToledo Interim President Matt Schroeder and award-winning TV and media host Kristi K. Hoffman, sitting at a table next to large microphones.Blair discusses athletics’ strategic vision for the future, including the introduction of a rowing program, utilization of the football stadium for events such as the Hometown Heroes Glass City Live concert in May featuring Zac Brown Band, the proposed Champions Complex and the evolving landscape of collegiate athletics. The conversation underscores the alignment and teamwork within the University, aiming to elevate its athletic programs to new heights while making UToledo a destination campus.

“Change represents an opportunity,” Blair said. “We’re going to run towards that opportunity as much as we can. If you look over the last three years, college athletics has never undergone more change than it has right now. I think we’ve got coaches, we’ve got administrators, we’ve got supporters who are built for this and are willing to run towards that opportunity.”

The “Powering UToledo” podcast highlights the University’s significant contributions in research, education and healthcare and provides an inside look into the institution’s innovation projects and future priorities.

Listen and subscribe where you get your favorite podcasts or at utoledo.edu/offices/president/podcast.