The final hour zooms out to the global stage as Kansas City prepares to welcome the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bill is joined by Sports Radio 810 broadcaster Nate Bukaty to discuss Kansas City’s growing role in the global sports landscape and the opportunity to create a lasting legacy for young athletes. During Nate's segment, we were joined by special guest Steven St. John from New Day with SSJ.

The hour features insights from Kansas City Current reporter Dani Welniak, followed by an inspiring conversation with soccer power couple Roger Espinoza and Lo’eau LaBonta, who share their experiences competing at the highest levels of the sport and why Kansas City has become one of the most exciting soccer communities in the world.

About the Show

Before the Madness is a special three-hour broadcast produced by the ShareWaves Foundation and Sports Radio 810 WHB to kick off the annual March Gladness campaign. The show brings together athletes, coaches, and community leaders to explore how sports build character, create opportunity, and transform young lives across Kansas City.

If you believe in the power of sports to shape the next generation, you can learn more about our work and support the mission at www.sharewavesfoundation.org. Contributions through the March Gladness campaign help remove barriers to participation so more kids can experience the life-changing benefits of sports.

ShareWaves + Do Like Duke share a common vision: ensuring that every young person has access to meaningful sports experiences that build confidence, leadership, and lifelong opportunity.

Learn more, get involved, or donate at:
www.sharewavesfoundation.org

In the second hour, the conversation turns to the magic of March basketball and the role sports play in shaping the next generation of leaders. Bill is joined by the Voice of the Jayhawks, Brian Hanni, for an inside look at Kansas basketball culture and the excitement surrounding March Madness.

The highlight of the hour is an extended and powerful conversation with Hall of Fame head coach Bill Self, who reflects on leadership, player development, and what sports can teach young athletes about discipline, character, and teamwork. The hour also includes a compelling father-son conversation with former KU player Jeff Hawkins and his son Maverick Hawkins, offering a personal perspective on mentorship, family, and the opportunities sports can create.

About the Show

Before the Madness is a special three-hour broadcast produced by the ShareWaves Foundation and Sports Radio 810 WHB to kick off the annual March Gladness campaign. The show brings together athletes, coaches, and community leaders to explore how sports build character, create opportunity, and transform young lives across Kansas City.

If you believe in the power of sports to shape the next generation, you can learn more about our work and support the mission at www.sharewavesfoundation.org. Contributions through the March Gladness campaign help remove barriers to participation so more kids can experience the life-changing benefits of sports.

ShareWaves + Do Like Duke share a common vision: ensuring that every young person has access to meaningful sports experiences that build confidence, leadership, and lifelong opportunity.

Learn more, get involved, or donate at:
www.sharewavesfoundation.org

The Before the Madness radio show kicks off with a powerful conversation about the deeper purpose of sports — building character, leadership, and community. Bill is joined by Ryan Ommert to share the story behind the Do Like Duke movement and the legacy of a young athlete whose impact continues to inspire others.

The hour also features conversations with former Sporting KC goalkeeper Tim Melia, Midwest Adaptive Sports founder Matt Bollig, and Duke’s coach Colby Harding, exploring how great coaches, inclusive programs, and strong team culture shape young people far beyond the scoreboard.

About the Show

Before the Madness is a special three-hour broadcast produced by the ShareWaves Foundation and Sports Radio 810 WHB to kick off the annual March Gladness campaign. The show brings together athletes, coaches, and community leaders to explore how sports build character, create opportunity, and transform young lives across Kansas City.

If you believe in the power of sports to shape the next generation, you can learn more about our work and support the mission at www.sharewavesfoundation.org. Contributions through the March Gladness campaign help remove barriers to participation so more kids can experience the life-changing benefits of sports.

ShareWaves + Do Like Duke share a common vision: ensuring that every young person has access to meaningful sports experiences that build confidence, leadership, and lifelong opportunity.

Learn more, get involved, or donate at:
www.sharewavesfoundation.org