Ep. 317: Chris Bucknam

In this episode of The Hog Pod, newly retired Arkansas men’s track & field coach Chris Bucknam sits down for an honest, funny, and deeply reflective conversation about closing out his 18-year run leading one of college sports’ most storied programs. Bucknam talks about clearing out his office, leaving trophies where they belong and wrestling with the memories — the SEC Triple Crowns, 18 podium finishes, two national titles and the one-point heartbreaks that still stick with him.

He shares candid stories about replacing a legend in John McDonnell, what it felt like to sit in “that chair,” and why he always kept a picture of Coach McDonnell on his desk as a daily reminder of the standard he inherited. Bucknam also discusses the challenge of trying to win in all three sports — cross country, indoor and outdoor — with limited scholarships and why he believes that philosophy defined his tenure.

He opens up about the changing landscape of college athletics, the transfer portal, NIL and why the evolution of the sport played some role — but not the main role — in his decision to step away. Ultimately, he says, retirement is about family, health and passing the program to someone he trusts. Bucknam emphatically explains why longtime assistant Doug Case is the right person to lead Arkansas next, praising his loyalty, calm presence and technical mastery.

It’s a wide-ranging look back at a remarkable career — full of competitive fire, humility and the perspective that only comes at the end of a legendary run.