Ryan Erisman: Beating Olympians & a Breakout Freshman Season at Cal

Ryan Erisman is having one of the most eye-opening freshman seasons in college swimming — and he proved it on the world stage.

Fresh off a dominant performance at the 2026 Pro Swim Series in Austin, the Cal freshman joins Social Kick to break down what it takes to beat Olympic medalists, manage insane race schedules, and thrive inside the legendary Cal system. Ryan talks about winning the 200 and 400 free, dropping massive time in the 1500, and racing everything from the 200 fly to the 100 free — often in the same session.

We get into his rapid transition from high school standout to NCAA threat, training under Dave Durden, long-course vs short-course racing, and how he’s building momentum with Nationals and NCAAs ahead. If you want a look at what the next generation of U.S. distance and middle-distance freestyle looks like, this episode is a must-listen.

🎧 Freshman breakout 🔥 Pro Swim Austin wins 🏊 Beating Olympians 🐻 Life inside Cal swimming