January 15, 2025

Paul Hembekides on Priorities, Faith, and ESPN

In this inspiring episode of the Cedarville Stories podcast, we sit down with Paul Hembekides, known as “Hembo” to ESPN viewers. He is the premier researcher and analyst for ESPN, and his roots are deeply entrenched at Cedarville University. Known for his wit and expertise on sports television, Hembo reflects on his collegiate baseball career, spiritual journey, and professional success.

Hembo shares about his time as a college athlete playing for the best baseball teams in Cedarville’s history. Starting 170 games, he set a university record with 128 career walks. His time on the field taught him lessons in perseverance, discipline, and teamwork.

At ESPN, Hembo is a key figure on and off the screen, providing in-depth research and analytics for popular shows like Get Up. Known for his sharp insights and encyclopedic sports knowledge, he helps shape discussions on the biggest stories in sports. His role requires meticulous preparation and a deep understanding of game trends, making him a trusted resource for hosts and analysts alike.

Hembo opens up about his journey from being career-obsessed in his early 20s to reprioritizing his life through faith and family. As a father of three daughters, he highlights the transformative power of fatherhood and how it has deepened his perspective on life and faith.

Tune in to this episode for insights on living intentionally, maintaining perspective, and embracing the Lord’s blessings. Hembo’s story will inspire listeners to prioritize what truly matters and trust God’s plan for their lives.

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