On our big season four finale, hosts Matthew Paolizzi and Samuel Brungo are joined by associate producers Jordan Mansberger and Will Pegler to interview NFL Hall of Famer and Penn State football legend Franco Harris.

Harris starts the show by talking about his journey to Penn State, his draft story, and the beginning of his young NFL career. This includes tales about playing in high school, college, and the NFL, as well as his recruiting battles, conversations with Joe Paterno, and fun draft day story.

Harris then talks about some of the influences and role models he has had in his life, leading him to talk about his commitment to service and to the communities he is involved in. This includes business ventures and outreach opportunities such as his involvement with Super Bakery, a nutrition bakery for school children, and the Park’s Sausage Company in Baltimore, which was the first African American-owned business to go public in the United States.

Franco talks about being inducted into the Hall of Fame and what it means to him. Wrapping up his interview, Franco talks about Penn State football and how he thinks the program is heading in the right direction, noting its 2021 draft class (including the Steelers 2nd Round Pick that he announced, Pat Friermuth).

Finally, we bid farewell to our co-founder and host, Matt Paolizzi. With parting words, Paolizzi tells the story of how Podward State came to fruition from an idea to a multi-platform show interviewing some of Penn State and State College’s biggest names. This show would not be where it is today without him, something we are forever grateful for. Thanks, Matt!

Podward State is an Onward State-produced podcast that will release weekly episodes this spring on Spotify and YouTube. Each will feature discussions about all things Penn State, including sports, news, student life, and entertainment, and more.

You can catch this week’s episode using the YouTube or Spotify links below.