A standout at the University of California, he was selected in the first round of the 1996 NFL Draft by the Minnesota Vikings and went on to play nearly a decade in the league with the Vikings, Kansas City Chiefs, and Cincinnati Bengals.

Beyond the stats, Clemons’ story is one of resilience—staying focused and disciplined while navigating challenging environments and competing paths early in life. That mindset carried him through a nine-year NFL career, finishing with 49.5 sacks, and cemented his reputation as someone who earned success through perseverance, self-belief, and relentless pursuit of his goals.

Timika Thrasher serves as the Chief Executive Officer of the Boys & Girls Club of Frederick County, where she is deeply committed to empowering youth and strengthening local communities. A local business owner as well, she brings a practical, community-rooted perspective to leadership, focusing on safe, inclusive spaces that support youth development, and long-term success through mentorship, access, and stability.

The Student Athlete Playbook: How to Master Mental Toughness and Balance School & Sports. He fell in 60% of his races. Now he’s a Captain. Here’s how.

Freshman year, Chase Dejardin wiped out in 60% of his competitive ski races as a freshman. Most people would have quit after the third fall. Chase didn't.

Now, he’s a Junior at Gonzaga College High School, XC Captain, National Honor Society member, and a leader in his community.

On this episode of Air & Opportunity, Dario and Chris sit down with Chase to find out exactly how you turn a "failing season" into a foundation for leadership.

We discuss The mental shift required to get back up (literally). How to balance grades, sports, and a social life without burning out. Why real leadership isn't about being the loudest person in the room.

If you’re a student stressing about your future, or just trying to survive the week—this is the blueprint you need.

In every episode, we have conversations with leaders, mentors, and role models who share their stories of resilience, guidance, and what it takes to elevate while relying on one another. Our mission is to empower the youth, especially those without strong male guidance to reclaim timeless values like chivalry, respect, and real confidence.

Created by Dario and Chris, our mission is simple: help people rise from strong roots into elevated growth and endless possibilities.  This is a space for fresh tools, real conversations, and genuine growth, helping young men rise into capable, confident leaders beyond screens and surface impressions.

In this episode, we sit down with Coach Kurt Stein, Head Football Coach at Oakdale High School in Maryland — a leader known for building one of the state’s most respected high school football programs through perseverance, discipline, and vision.

Coach Stein began his coaching career at Catoctin High School (2004–2009), where he served as Quarterbacks Coach and Head JV Coach. In 2009, his contributions helped Catoctin capture the Maryland 1A State Championship.

When Oakdale High School opened its doors in 2010, Coach Stein took on the challenge of building a football program from the ground up — starting with only freshmen and sophomores. After an inaugural JV season in 2010, Oakdale played its first varsity season in 2011, finishing 0–10. From those humble beginnings, Coach Stein has transformed the program into a powerhouse.

Over 14 varsity seasons, Oakdale has compiled a record of 102–51, including a 15–8 playoff record and Regional Championships in 2018, 2022, and 2023. The team has reached the State Championship Game three times and claimed two Maryland State Titles — the 2A Championship in 2018 (13–0) and the 3A Championship in 2023 (14–0).

Coach Stein’s leadership and dedication have not gone unnoticed. He’s been named Baltimore Touchdown Club Coach of the Year three times (2018, 2022, 2023) and was honored as the Baltimore Ravens Maryland High School Coach of the Year in 2023.

Through it all, Coach Stein has remained focused on what matters most — developing young men of character, resilience, and teamwork both on and off the field.

Beau Traber Brings Leadership, Resilience, and Perspective to Air & Opportunity Podcast

Frederick, MD — Beau Traber, a former Bucknell University football standout and community coach, joins Air & Opportunity Podcast to share his story of perseverance, leadership, and the power of relationships.

Originally from Rochester, NY, Beau moved to Norman, Oklahoma for high school before earning a football scholarship to Bucknell University. There, he excelled as a linebacker, serving as a senior captain and earning All-Conference honors twice. Following graduation, he and his wife lived in Texas, New Jersey, and Virginia before settling in Frederick, Maryland in 2021. The couple married just ahead of the 2024 season.

Beyond his professional career, Beau dedicated his time to shaping young athletes as a volunteer coach (Defensive Coordinator) with GTJHS Football, leading the program as head coach for two seasons before stepping down to focus on his career.

During this episode, he will discuss topics close to his heart: overcoming hardships, setting and achieving meaningful goals, and fostering stronger relationships through empathy, perspective, and communication.

In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Todd Ermi, who shares the story of a life-altering medical experience that completely reshaped his outlook on life. What once defined success for him has taken on new meaning, centered less on achievement and more on purpose, gratitude, and impact.

Through his journey, Todd opens up about the resilience it took to face uncertainty, the clarity he gained about what truly matters, and the legacy he now feels called to leave behind. This episode is a candid reflection on redefining success, cultivating strength in adversity, and living with intention.

Whether you’re navigating your own challenges or seeking perspective on what it means to live a fulfilled life, this conversation will leave you inspired to reflect on your own path and the mark you want to make.