Team camaraderie is being redefined in modern times, and the expansion of individual brands has helped players expand their reach. With podcasts, YouTube, and numerous other media platforms, now is the best time for athletes to build an audience. 

Alabama Crimson Tide star freshmen Ryan Williams and Jaylen Mbakwe have jumped into the fray and are seeing huge numbers thus far. The "New Wave Podcast" was launched on Sept. 2 on YouTube, pushing over 120,000 views on three episodes. 

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Mbakwe expressed astonishment at the podcast's reception and the impressive listener numbers it has attracted so far.

"We were kind of in front of cameras a lot, and we both just said we need to start a podcast," Mbakwe said on a recent episode.

Before their time at Alabama, Williams and Mbakwe were already acquainted, having been two of the top athletes in their state. They competed against each other in the 2023 6A state championship game and encountered each other during recruitment events.

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The concept of starting a podcast together began to take shape when both Mbakwe and Williams were chosen to participate in the 2024 Under Armour All-American Game, and they decided to bring it to life upon their arrival at Alabama.

"We were going to do it in our dorm, and everybody just kept supporting us," Williams said. "And Alabama has done a great job of allowing us to express ourselves and share it on the platform."

Mbakwe mentioned that Williams is his closest friend, and for several years, they have contemplated starting a podcast together. During their recruiting period, Nick Saban, the ex-head coach of the Crimson Tide, informed them about the NIL center being developed at Alabama. 

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He supported their podcast idea, suggesting it would be a perfect place to kickstart their show.

The two freshmen have quickly proven themselves on the football field. Williams has emerged as Alabama's top receiver in the first three games, amassing 285 yards and scoring four touchdowns, securing a starting position from the first game. 

Meanwhile, Mbakwe has shown promise at cornerback with a total of four tackles and has taken on the role of the team's punt returner following an injury to Cole Adams.

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Jermaine Burton, a former Alabama player now with the Cincinnati Bengals, has expressed interest in appearing on their podcast. Additionally, efforts are underway to have Saban appear on an episode.

"Hopefully sooner than later, man," Mbakwe said. "Everybody wants Coach Saban on there, so it’s a possibility that we get him.”