CBC launches podcast series Meet the Riders

CBC Radio's Peter Mills goes beyond the post-game news conference and introduces fans to the personalities behind the jersey numbers of the Saskatchewan Roughriders. Players open up about their passion for the game in a fun and relaxed format that is unlike any other sports podcast. You won't hear stats and scores here, just great stories.

You can download episodes of Meet the Riders at CBC podcasts, on iTunes or the podcast app of your choice.

Episode 1: Jon Ryan

Punter Jon Ryan may have a Super Bowl ring, but he never got to live out his dream until returning home.

In this episode, wehear why Ryan says "if you cut me open, I bleed green".

Episode 2: Cameron Judge

Linebacker Cameron Judge is profoundly affected by the man tattooed on his chest: Martin Luther King, Jr. Mills finds out how Dr. King and a life on the road shaped Judge's life.

Episode 3: Mike Edem

Safety Mike Edem is known for his hard hits on the football field, but he's not afraid to show a softer side off the field. In this episode, Mills finds out how a dog taught Edem about life and love.

Episode 4: Loucheiz Purifoy

Defensive back and kick returner Loucheiz Purifoy would give up anything for his family, whichincludes a newborn son. In this episode, we'll learn why he was willing to give up football and a kidney for his mother.

Episode 5: William Powell

Running back William Powell learned a lot from the three women in his home growing up. In this episode, we'll hear about his supportive sisters and how he overcame the death of his mom.

Episode 6: Dan Clark

Offensive lineman Dan Clark had a life-changing experience before the 2019 CFL season. In this episode, we'll hear how he is recovering emotionally after a serious car crash and how it changed his outlook on life.

Episode 7: Brett Lauther

Kicker Brett Lauther refused to call it quits when times were tough and Roughriders fans owe him for it. In this episode, we'll hear how Lauther became a CFL all-star after spending fivelongyears fighting for a job.

Episode 8: Brendon LaBatte

Offensive lineman Brendon LaBatte will someday find himself in the CFL Hall of Fame, but there was a time when he didn't even like football. In this episode, we'll hear how he fell in love with the game and also his passion for stock car racing.

Episode 9: Shaq Evans

Receiver Shaq Evans had to Google "Saskatchewan" to find out where he'd be playing, but he definitely knows all about Rider Nation now. In this episode, we'll hear about his journey from Inglewood, Calif., and how he made some special friendships in Saskatchewan.

Episode 10: Nick Marshall

Defensive back Nick Marshall has done something very few professional football players could accomplish. In this episode, we'll hear how he went from avoiding interceptions to catching them and why Saskatchewan feels a lot like his hometown.

Episode 11: Kyran Moore

Receiver Kyran Moore has been doubted his entire life, but he's proving heart can be greater than height. In this episode, we'll hear about his journey from Bessemer, Ala., and how his big break came in a game he wasn't even supposed to play.

Episode 12: L.J. McCray

Defensive back L.J. McCray has been through a long journey physically and emotionally. In this episode, we'll hear how he overcame a family tragedy and about his surprising connection to Saskatchewan.