Sept. 20, 2026 ~ Host Dr. Robert Livernois explores the impact of high school athletics, leadership, and effective school communication as students across Michigan settle into a new school year. The conversation examines evolving approaches to student safety, participation, and sportsmanship, from changes to football playoff formats and safety rules to the continued growth of girls’ field hockey, volleyball, and soccer. Guests also discuss how athletic programs help students develop discipline, resilience, teamwork, and leadership skills that extend far beyond the playing field. Guests for this edition include: Executive Director of the Michigan High School Athletic Association (MHSAA), Mark Uyl; head varsity soccer coach at De La Salle Collegiate and one of the winningest active high school soccer coaches in the nation, Thaier Mukhtar; and Joe DiBenedetto of LLYC Communications, who shares insights on helping school districts navigate new cell phone policies, crisis communications, and community engagement.