Tackling Transitions from Football to Franchises with Van Jakes

12/21/23 • 42 min

As we peel back the layers of an exceptional journey, Van Jakes joins us to share his playbook on life - from a formidable NFL career to triumphs in the entrepreneurial world. His tale is one of foresight and adaptability; a manual for anyone contemplating their second act. We navigate the emotional terrain of a career-ending injury and the beacon of mentorship that illuminated Van's path to business ownership. Our dialogue is a testament to the resilience needed when life throws a flag on your plans, and how to regroup for the next play.
Confronting the realities of cognitive decline and mental health care, this episode doesn't shy away from the tougher aspects of a life well-lived. Van's personal story echoes the experiences of many, as we unravel the transition from a hands-on approach to a more strategic franchise model, offering him the reprieve necessary during life's challenges. His candid recount of grief and the pivot to seeking support underscore the profound impact of community and reaching out. Together, we affirm the healing power of therapy and the importance of self-care, particularly within the black community.
Wrapping up, we turn to the passions that fuel us – from adaptive golf to the serenity of gardening – celebrating the resilience and joy these activities bring to those facing physical and cognitive hurdles. We also extend a hand to former NFL players, sharing the lifelines available to them as they navigate their transitions. Ultimately, this episode is a heartfelt reminder that life's playbook is full of unexpected twists, and with the right team and mindset, we can tackle them head-on. Join us for an intimate look into the determination, healing, and growth that define Van Jakes' inspiring journey.

Every Down Has a Story...

Every Down Has a Story...

Previous Episode

A Man of Many Courts...Life, Death & Beyond with Sports Court Specialist Dave Wengryn

Ever ponder how a sports surfacing expert ends up leaving corporate America for something more fulfilling? Our guest, Dave Wengryn, a Pittsburgh native, walks us through his intriguing journey. Once navigating corporate corridors, Dave is now the expert behind the NBA, Olympic, and NCAA floors, and a doting family man. As the only boy in a family of six, Dave's stories of his upbringing are both entertaining and motivating. With a foot in multi-cultural roots, he brings to the table an enriched perspective on the need for unity and understanding in today's fragmented world.
Sometimes, it's the little things that create the most significant impact. You'll hear some heartwarming stories from his life - how his parents' simple actions led to remarkable outcomes. Dave's mother’s journey through her liver transplant led to the foundation of a Falls Prevention Program at UPMC, named in her honor. A laminated quote in his father's wallet now serves as Dave's constant reminder of the importance of generosity and kindness. As we move along, we delve into the power of friendship, music, and faith. We share the transformative effect of a favorite song, a tale of a former employee who became a dear friend, our love for Pittsburgh, its famous residents, and much more. Tune in for an episode filled with laughter, life lessons, music, friendship, and a profound love for life.
CONTACT/SOCIAL
Facebook - https://www.facebook.com/dave.wengryn.3
Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/dwengryn
Twitter (X) - -https://www.twitter.com/wengryn_dave
SPONSORS
Yinzers
https://yinzerspegh.com/
At check out enter 10% off coupon - I3A1
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Thanks in advance for your support!
Host - Charlotte Heyward-Wesley
Producer - Millie Phaeton

Every Down Has a Story...

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Loss beyond Measure...The Backbone of her Family, Ms. Lisa Walsh

Join Major League Baseball Mom Lisa Walsh, and I unravel a tapestry of sports tales that transcend the arenas and dig into the very fabric of our lives. With Lisa's infectious enthusiasm for all things 'Burg, we rekindle memories of tailgates, highlight the incredible rise of her son, First baseman Jared Walsh, a baseball underdog, and tackle the tough topics of addiction and loss with the same grit our hometown city of Pittsburgh is known for.
This episode isn't just about reliving the glory days of Pittsburgh's storied franchises or marveling at the athletic prowess of one of baseball's unexpected stars. It's about the laughter and tears shared over a love for the game; the unspoken understanding between fans, and the way sports can serve as the backdrop for family traditions, including those that help us cope with grief. We open up about our own quirks and pet peeves, remember the disco-infused championship seasons, and honor the resilience that defines our journeys—both on the field and off.
As the final whistle blows on our conversation, we extend an invitation to you: become part of our community that finds solace and joy in the shared narrative of sports. Whether you're a die-hard Steelers fan or a baseball parent navigating the curveballs of raising an athlete, there's a place for your story here. Subscribe, join the conversation on social media, and let's continue to celebrate the wins, learn from the losses, and cherish the memories that make the game so much more than just a game.
SPONSORS
Yinzers
https://yinzerspegh.com/
At check out enter 10% off coupon - I3A1
------------------------------------------
FOLLOW, SUBSCRIBE & SHARE
Please help us spread the word by doing the following:
1. Follow @its3rdand1 and repost on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter (X)
2. Follow and subscribe to its3rdand1 on the following:
Spotify - https://bit.ly/3tg6mT6

Apple Podcasts - https://apple.co/46fj7vY

iHeart Radio - https://ihr.fm/3Pzb5XB

Google Podcasts - https://bit.ly/3rB1KXg
3. Once you have listened to the episodes, please leave a review and a 5 star rating.
5. You can contact Lisa Walsh on Social Media
Twitter (X) - @Lisa_L_walsh
Imstagram - @lisawalsh933