TTalk: Beyond the Field

When a New Orleans East kid dreams of athletic stardom, the road isn't always paved in gold. Bernard Robertson, III knows this all too well, and he takes us through the side streets and sharp turns from swimming pools and tennis courts to the roar of NFL stadiums. Our conversation threads through Bernard's formative years, where family influence and mentorship played critical roles in shaping not just an athlete, but a man of resilience. His story a rich tapestry of triumphs, transitions, and the kind of life lessons you can't find in playbooks—resonates with anyone who's ever faced a hurdle and wondered how to leap.

But what happens when the game is over, the crowd disperses, and the lights dim? For Bernard Robertson, the play simply changed fields—from the gridiron to the world of wealth management. His tale of transition illuminates the many ways athletes can redirect their passion and skills into new arenas. And as we peel back the curtain on Bernard's post-football success, we uncover a masterclass in adaptability, mentorship, and the never-ending quest for personal growth. Join us as we honor not only Bernard's athletic prowess but also his commitment to guiding the next generation, ensuring that when the stadium lights eventually dim, they're ready to shine elsewhere.

(00:00) Athletic Journey of Bernard Robertson
(13:16) Navigating Police Interactions With Black Youth
(24:34) Recruitment Visit to Tulane Football
(38:55) Tommy Bowden and Tulane Football
(45:04) Turning Around Tulane's Football Program
(59:34) Career Transition and Personal Growth
(01:09:44) Transition From Football to Financial Advisor
(01:14:58) Impact of NIL and Transfer Portal
(01:21:10) Transfer Rules and Athletic Legacy
(01:25:20) Praising a Good Leader and Friend

Melvin Ferdinand, Tulane's own football and track star, shares stories that add rich detail to the university's student athletics history. From his notable high school days at St. Augustine to the influential recruitment by Coach Mack Brown, Melvin opens up about the highs and lows of his collegiate career. His candid reflections on the complexities of being a student-athlete at a predominantly white institution offer a raw glimpse into the personal growth that sports catalyzed for him. We hear his memories of camaraderie in the Superdome, the academic struggles paired with athletic triumphs, and the stereotypes that Melvin defied.

The conversation takes an inspiring turn when Melvin shares the wisdom gleaned from his impressive 22-year military career. He emphasizes the indispensable role of mentorship and networks, drawing from his own experiences moving from the gridiron to the Marine Corps. He discusses the invaluable lessons in teamwork and leadership that his military service nurtured, mirroring the solidarity found on the sports field.

As he talks about initiatives like "Suiting up with T-Club" and "Getting Prepared with T-Club," designed to arm student-athletes for success beyond college, he recognizes the acute need for a community that supports and uplifts its young sportsmen and women through thick and thin. He tackles the timely topic of Name, Image, and Likeness, advocating for initiatives that arm young sportsmen and women with the tools for success beyond their collegiate endeavors. Whether you're an athlete, a mentor, or an advocate for collegiate sports, this episode promises to engage, educate, and inspire.

Terry Johnson D'Angelo, recounts her inspiring journey from her Long Beach, Mississippi beginnings to becoming a Tulane women's basketball legend. She opens up about her formative years, the recruitment rollercoaster, and the transition to university athletics that would set the stage for an illustrious career in sports. We dive deep into the life of a woman whose influence has extended far beyond the basketball court.

Listen in as we explore the landscape of women's collegiate basketball post-Title IX and its growth over the years. Terry reminisces about her on-court achievements, including a standout 36-point game, and discusses the evolution of the sport—from the absence of a shot clock to today's fast-paced action. She highlights the hard work and dedication necessary to compete at a high level, touching on injury prevention and the advancements that have enriched the modern athlete's experience.

We delve into the challenges athletes face today, including navigating NIL deals and maintaining the delicate balance between sport and scholarship. Terry's story is a beacon for young athletes—a reminder of the power of sports to shape futures, build lasting connections, and foster personal growth that extends far beyond the court.

Larry Route, a Covington, Louisiana native and former Tulane All-American football standout, shares his amazing story. Larry suffered a broken neck in high school, but he battled back from what could have been a career ending injury and convinced his mother to allow him back onto the field. Larry's exceptional talent caught the eye of renowned coach Lou Holtz, leading to a tough decision between Tulane and Arkansas. Larry chose to stay close to home so his mom could see him play.

Larry found himself in a unique College environment. Things were changing; Tulane was no longer playing in their on-campus stadium, they were playing in the Superdome. Larry studied Sports Administration and had to balance tough classes with playing Division I sports, especially during away games.

At first, Larry played as a receiver, but then he switched to the H-back/tight end position. He worked hard to bulk up from 180 to 205 pounds during his redshirt freshman year. He knew he had to keep getting better, especially when playing tough teams. Larry remembers how great it felt when his big plays helped Tulane seal the victory over Florida State.

Larry talks about his college days, his career after graduating, and how college sports are changing, in a conversation led by Tulane Hall of Famer Carmen Jones.

In this episode, we chart the evolution of a high school phenom into a junior college standout at Delgado and shares the camaraderie and growth that propelled him to Tulane University and the Posse. With a life as vibrant as a game-winning buzzer-beater, Michael Christian opens up about his international upbringing, the formative influence of his Air Force father, and the pivotal encounters with future NBA legends that defined his early years.

Feel the heartbeat of those fierce NCAA games, where rivalries were as intense as the Southern heat, and the weight of a coach's expectations could make or break a young athlete's dreams. Christian doesn't shy away from the raw moments of self-doubt and the resilience demanded to excel in the highly competitive world of collegiate athletics.

Michael shares the wisdom gleaned from coaching, the impact of youth basketball culture, and the responsibilities of nurturing the next generation of talent in an era of NIL and the Transfer Portal. This episode is a celebration of friendship, mentorship and the deep-seated connections that bind the past, present, and future of Tulane Men's Basketball.

(00:00) Michael Christian formative years
(11:08) High School Basketball
(23:12) Junior College Basketball
(31:31) Remembering the Posse Era in Tulane Basketball
(43:44) NCAA Basketball Game Conversations
(48:20) Building a Successful Basketball Team
(57:55) Life After College Basketball
(01:14:54) Coaching Path and Youth Development
(01:20:49) Impact of Youth Basketball Culture
(01:29:51) Discussion on Tulane Basketball Program
(01:37:16) Building a Winning Legacy at Tulane