Join us as we sit down with Nikki Kerstein and Leena Patibandla for an honest conversation about the transition into college. From navigating academics and campus life to building friendships and finding their footing, they share what surprised them most, what challenged them, and what helped them grow. Along the way, Nikki and Leena offer their best advice for students preparing to make the leap.Whether you’re an incoming student or supporting someone through the transition, this episode is full of practical tips and real talk to help you start college with confidence.

This month, host Phoebe Bacon (Swim & Dive) and upcoming BUILT HERE host, Omillio Agard (Football), sit down with Sam Green, CEO of NIL with Sam Green, to unpack the current state of Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) in college sports.

From building your personal brand to navigating opportunities off the field, this episode offers real advice for student-athletes looking to maximize their platform.

Interested in participating? Click HERE to fill out an interest form for future episodes.

Phoebe Bacon returns with a brand new episode of BUILT HERE, diving into the heart of community and service. She’s joined by Fiona McLaughlin (Track & Field) and Nathanial Vakos (Football) for a meaningful conversation about what it truly means to give back. From impactful volunteer moments to lasting connections off the field and track, they reflect on the experiences that have shaped their college journeys—and the legacy they hope to leave behind.

Interested in participating? Click HERE to fill out an interest form for future episodes.

Join Phoebe Bacon as she sits down with student-athlete Carter Booth (Volleyball) and Associate Head Coach - Volleyball, Brittany Dildine, as they discuss the perception and platform that women's sports has garnered. Hear their personal experiences and advice as they navigate this ever changing landscape of women's sports.

Interested in participating? Click HERE to fill out an interest form for future episodes.

Phoebe Bacon is back with Owen Lindmark (Men's Hockey '25) and Katy Meuer (Women's Soccer '07) to dive into life after college. In this episode, they explore the challenges and triumphs of transitioning to post-college life, discovering new identities, and building meaningful communities. Tune in for an honest conversation and firsthand insights from those who've navigated the journey.

For interest in participating in a future episode, click HERE.

In this first episode of Built Here: The Badger Built Podcast, host Phoebe Bacon (Women's Swimming) sits down to discuss the reality of the student-athlete experience with Mia Sowders (Women's Soccer) and Austin Brown (Football). They discuss the pressures of social media, the impact of perfectionism, and the unseen side of the athlete lifestyle. Tune in for an honest conversation about the reality of being a student-athlete at the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

For interest in participating in a future episode, please reach out to Alex Richards (ar3@athletics.wisc.edu).

A one-stop-shop for all things Badger Built. Hear fellow student-athletes, alumni, experts, and staff discuss their unique experiences surrounding Badger Built and their interests.