In this episode of the THSADA Director’s Cut, we sit down with Mike Buddie, Director of Athletics at TCU and former Major League Baseball pitcher.

From his playing days in the Yankees organization to leadership roles at Furman and Army West Point, Buddie brings a seasoned, real-world perspective to the challenges facing athletic administrators today.

He shares how his leadership philosophy was shaped by working under a four-star general, why understanding the difference between what’s critical and what’s urgent is essential, and how he intentionally balances work and family in a 24/7 profession.

Whether you’re an aspiring leader or a veteran AD navigating a new era of expectations, this conversation offers practical insight on culture, communication, and keeping the main thing the main thing.

Special thanks to our episode sponsor, QHF Sports, a Texas-based leader in sports floor maintenance and installation. From repairs and refinishing to permanent and portable basketball and volleyball courts, QHF helps schools deliver safe, professional-grade playing surfaces across the state. Learn more at qhfsports.com.

In this episode of the THSADA Director’s Cut, we sit down with Trev Alberts, Director of Athletics at Texas A&M University and former Butkus Award-winning linebacker.

From his time as an All-American player at Nebraska, to his years as a national broadcaster, to now leading one of the most visible programs in college sports, Alberts brings a full-circle perspective to the challenges facing coaches and athletic leaders today.

He opens up about the emotional toll of the current NIL climate, the cultural cost of constant instability, and how to hire and support coaches who are truly in it for the right reasons.

Whether you're leading at the high school level or managing the pressures of a large district or university, this conversation is a powerful reminder that integrity, clarity, and mission alignment still matter - especially in times of chaos.

Special thanks to our episode sponsor, PBK Architects, a proud partner of Texas school districts and a national leader in designing future-ready athletic and academic facilities.

In this episode of the THSADA Director’s Cut, we sit down with Richard Kilgore, Superintendent of Bruceville-Eddy ISD and the 2025 THSADA Superintendent of the Year. With 38 years in education — 19 of those as superintendent — Kilgore shares what superintendents are really looking for when they hire an athletic director.

From balancing flexibility and firmness, to understanding why integrity is evaluated long before the interview, to using active listening as a leadership superpower, Kilgore offers practical, real-world insights for athletic administrators at every stage of their career.

Whether you’re preparing for your first AD interview or refining your leadership approach, this conversation delivers tools, perspective, and wisdom you can put into action right away.

Special thanks to our episode sponsor Whataburger a proud supporter of the THSADA.