Join Legendary Coach Lou Holtz and UNC Athletic Director Bubba Cunningham for a meaningful discussion on leadership, responsibility, and the future of college sports. Hear how Bubba’s journey from Notre Dame to UNC shaped his passion for student-athletes, his views on NIL, and why preserving culture—on campus and in the country—matters more than ever.
In this episode, Coach Lou Holtz sits down with Bubba Cunningham, one of college athletics’ most respected leaders and the longtime Athletic Director at the University of North Carolina. With a career rooted in integrity and excellence, Bubba shares his story from humble beginnings in Naples, Florida to leading one of the most prestigious athletic departments in the nation.
Together, Coach Holtz and Bubba reflect on their shared roots at Notre Dame, the lessons of leadership learned through sports, and the values that sustain great teams and great institutions. Bubba opens up about hiring coaches, building a winning culture, and why the essence of college athletics is about more than trophies—it’s about education, character, and community.
They also tackle timely issues like NIL, the transfer portal, and the growing commercial pressures on college sports. Bubba speaks candidly about the impact of government and legal rulings, the challenges of maintaining Olympic sports, and what must be done to protect the collegiate model.
From fencing championships to Final Fours, from parenting to purpose, Bubba Cunningham offers wisdom on how athletics can inspire, educate, and unite us. This episode is a thoughtful and inspiring look at how strong leadership, timeless values, and a clear sense of mission can shape not only a successful program, but a stronger America.
