In this powerful episode of Athletes to Entrepreneurs: The Alumni Journey, host Rob Finkelstein sits down with William Person, a former nine-year Team USA Bobsled athlete whose career and life were forever changed by CTE (Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy).

After years of competing at the highest level, William faced the devastating effects of CTE — confusion, depression, and loss of clarity — until discovering Hyperbaric Oxygen Therapy (HBOT). The treatment helped him regain focus, restore his energy, and reignite his purpose.

Today, William is on a mission to raise awareness about brain injuries in sports, fight for transparency for youth athletes, and build a nonprofit CTE Recovery Center to help athletes, veterans, and civilians heal at no cost.

💡 In This Episode:

• William’s journey from college track athlete to Team USA Bobsled

• The mental and physical toll of CTE on former athletes

• How hyperbaric oxygen therapy changed his life

• The challenges of transitioning out of competitive sports

• Why networking and purpose are vital for athletes post-career

• William’s mission to build a CTE Wellness Center and educate future generations

• Athletes face major challenges transitioning after sports.

• CTE is a silent battle that many former athletes face without support.

• Networking and connection are critical for post-career success.

• Hyperbaric oxygen therapy can play a major role in brain recovery.

• William is leading the charge for transparency and long-term brain health in athletics.

Help William open a CTE Recovery Center to provide free treatment for athletes, veterans, and civilians suffering from brain injuries.
Your donation helps fund a medical-grade HBOT chamber, housing, and travel costs so those in need can receive care at no cost.
👉 Donate Here: https://gofund.me/93ff9c6e

📘 Facebook:

• One Man with a Chamber HBOT

• William Person

💼 LinkedIn:

• William Person

📸 Instagram:

• @willp1234567

▶️ YouTube:

• Brain Injury Survival

🎵 TikTok:

• @hyperbarichealing

  
  

  
  

Alumni Direct helps former athletes, entrepreneurs, and professionals stay connected beyond their careers. Join a supportive community that empowers meaningful relationships, mentorship, and new opportunities.

🌐 Learn more and connect today: www.alumnidirect.com
💬 Follow us on LinkedIn: Alumni Direct

🎙️ Athletes to Entrepreneurs: The Alumni Journey explores how former athletes channel their drive, discipline, and teamwork into new ventures and purpose-driven lives beyond the game.

#AthletesToEntrepreneurs #WilliamPerson #CTEAwareness #BrainHealth #HyperbaricOxygenTherapy #SportsRecovery #MentalHealth #AthleteTransition #AlumniJourney #RobFinkelstein #AlumniDirect

In this episode of Athletes to Entrepreneurs: The Alumni Journey, host Rob Finkelstein, Founder & CEO of Alumni Direct, sits down with Brad Ring — former **professional soccer player and MLS 17th overall draft pick, who has successfully transitioned from the pitch to the world of sales and athlete mental health advocacy.A High School and Collegiate All-American and team captain at Indiana University**, Brad played nine professional seasons with the San Jose Earthquakes, Portland Timbers, and Indy Eleven** before co-founding the USLPA (United Soccer League Players Association). Today, he’s also a color analyst for Indy Eleven Pro Soccer and a passionate advocate for athlete mental wellness through his work with OnRise.Together, Rob and Brad dive deep into the **realities of life after sports** — from identity loss and transition challenges to the power of networking, education, and community. Brad shares how athletes can leverage their competitive mindset to build success in business and sales, while emphasizing the importance of **mental health, mentorship, and alumni engagement** in creating a sustainable life beyond the game.---Rob and Brad unpack:- The identity challenges athletes face when retiring from professional sports- Why networking during your playing career sets you up for future success- The role of education and mentorship in career transitions- How alumni networks create valuable support systems- NIL’s growing impact on college athletics — and why it needs clearer regulation- The transferable skills athletes bring to entrepreneurship and sales- The importance of prioritizing mental health post-career- How organizations like OnRise are reshaping athlete wellnessIf you’ve ever wondered how athletes transform their drive and discipline into business success, this episode is packed with insights on **turning transition into transformation**.Because as Brad reminds us:Life after sports is possible — if you prepare for it early.”Connect with Brad Ring- [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/brad-ring-2018)- [Instagram](https://www.instagram.com/bradring87/)- [X (Twitter)](https://x.com/BradRing87)🎧 Hosted by Rob Finkelstein, Founder & CEO of **Alumni Direct**Connect with Alumni Direct:- 🌐 [alumnidirect.com](http://alumnidirect.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)- 📱 Instagram: [@alumnidirect](https://instagram.com/alumnidirect?utm_source=chatgpt.com)- 🕊 X (formerly Twitter): [@alumnidirect](https://twitter.com/alumnidirect?utm_source=chatgpt.com)- 💼 LinkedIn: [Alumni Direct](https://linkedin.com/company/alumnidirect?utm_source=chatgpt.com)- 👍 Facebook: [Alumni Direct](https://facebook.com/alumnidirect?utm_source=chatgpt.com)---Discover how focus, preparation, and community can help athletes build purpose-driven success — on and off the field.

In this episode of Athletes to Entrepreneurs: The Alumni Journey, host Rob Finkelstein, Founder & CEO of Alumni Direct, sits down with Adonai Mack — former All-American Triple Jumper from Morehouse College and now CEO of Child Action, Inc. — to explore how athletes can transform the lessons of sport into leadership, purpose, and impact.

Adonai shares his journey from chasing Olympic dreams to leading a mission-driven organization that advocates for children and families. Guided by values of education and service instilled by his father, longtime Sacramento-area superintendent Dr. Carl Mack, Adonai brings a powerful perspective on how discipline, resilience, and coaching shaped his success beyond the track.

Together, Rob and Adonai dive deep into what it means to grow through transition — not just to survive it. They uncover how the mental, emotional, and practical lessons learned through sports can become a foundation for leadership and lifelong growth.

---

Rob and Adonai unpack:

- How athletic discipline translates into leadership excellence

- The importance of coaching that prepares athletes for life, not just performance

- The mental and emotional challenges of redefining identity after sports

- Why education and mentorship are critical for long-term success

- How to find purpose beyond the pursuit of medals or championships

---

If you’re an athlete (or know one) navigating the next chapter — this conversation will remind you that the end of the game isn’t the end of your story.

It’s the start of a new kind of race — one built on purpose, perseverance, and impact.

---

🔗 Connect with Adonai Mack

- [LinkedIn](https://www.linkedin.com/in/adonai-mack-81943a53/)

🎧 Hosted by Rob Finkelstein**, Founder & CEO of **Alumni Direct

Connect with Alumni Direct:

- 🌐 [alumnidirect.com](http://alumnidirect.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

- 📱 Instagram: [@alumnidirect](https://instagram.com/alumnidirect?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

- 🕊 X (formerly Twitter): [@alumnidirect](https://twitter.com/alumnidirect?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

- 💼 LinkedIn: [Alumni Direct](https://linkedin.com/company/alumnidirect?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

- 👍 Facebook: [Alumni Direct](https://facebook.com/alumnidirect?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

---

Discover how focus, resilience, and connection can help athletes build a purpose-driven life beyond the game.**

When the cheers fade and the stadium lights dim, what comes next for an athlete? The transition from sports to life beyond the game can be one of the biggest challenges — but also one of the most rewarding transformations.

In this episode of Athletes to Entrepreneurs: The Alumni Journey, host Rob Finkelstein, Founder and CEO of Alumni Direct, sits down with Eric Ravotti — former Penn State linebacker, NFL athlete, and now Chief Operating Officer of MAC.BID — to explore how the discipline, teamwork, and mindset built on the field have fueled his success in business and leadership.

Eric opens up about the impact of his athletic experience, from playing under legendary coach Joe Paterno to learning the value of mentorship, preparation, and goal setting. He shares how those lessons continue to guide his leadership at MAC.BID, where he’s helped expand the company to 27 locations across 13 U.S. markets.

Together, Rob and Eric dive deep into:

The importance of teamwork and adversity in shaping strong leaders

How mentorship from coaches and peers builds lifelong impact

The need for academic and life preparation for athletes beyond sports

Building professional and cross-sport networks that open new opportunities

Why paying it forward and giving back to the next generation matters

How Penn State’s active alumni community supports athletes in transition

Eric’s story is a powerful reminder that the habits, grit, and teamwork learned through athletics can become the foundation for leadership and success in any field.

🔗 Connect with Eric Ravotti

LinkedIn: Eric Ravotti

Company: MAC.BID

🎧 Hosted by Rob Finkelstein, Founder & CEO of Alumni Direct

Connect with Alumni Direct:

Website: alumnidirect.com

Instagram: @alumnidirect

X (formerly Twitter): @alumnidirect

Facebook: Alumni Direct

LinkedIn: Alumni Direct

Discover how teamwork, mentorship, and community can help athletes turn their competitive drive into a lifetime of growth and leadership beyond the game.

Stepping away from the game is one of the toughest transitions an athlete can face. The routine changes, the identity shifts, and suddenly — the question becomes: who am I beyond the sport?

In this episode of Athletes to Entrepreneurs: The Alumni Journey, host Rob Finkelstein, Founder and CEO of Alumni Direct, sits down with Linda Martindale — a former college basketball player, certified mental fitness coach, professor, keynote speaker, and founder of Martindale Coaching — to explore how athletes can strengthen their mental fitness, expand their networks, and redefine success after sports.

Linda brings a powerful combination of experience and empathy — as both a former athlete and parent to four collegiate athletes. She opens up about the mental and emotional challenges athletes face when the cheers fade and the structure of sports disappears. Together, Rob and Linda dive deep into the connection between **mental health, NIL opportunities, and personal development**, showing how today’s athletes can turn their competitive mindset into a foundation for lifelong growth.

Together, Rob and Linda unpack:

- How sports build a competitive spirit that can fuel success beyond the game

- Why mental fitness is just as critical as physical fitness

- The impact of NIL on athlete entrepreneurship and personal branding

- How networking early can open doors for post-sports careers

- The power of alumni mentorship in supporting the next generation of athletes

- Why identity and purpose matter most when the playing days end

If you’re an athlete (or know one) navigating what comes next, this episode will remind you that your strength doesn’t stop when the game ends — it just shifts to a new arena.

---

🔗 Connect with Linda Martindale

- Website: [Martindale Coaching](https://www.notion.so/allsite/Martindalecoaching)

🎧 Hosted by Rob Finkelstein, Founder & CEO of Alumni Direct

Connect with Alumni Direct:

- Website: [alumnidirect.com](http://alumnidirect.com/?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

- Instagram: [@alumnidirect](https://instagram.com/alumnidirect?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

- X (formerly Twitter): [@alumnidirect](https://twitter.com/alumnidirect?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

- Facebook: [Alumni Direct](https://facebook.com/alumnidirect?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

- LinkedIn: [Alumni Direct](https://linkedin.com/company/alumnidirect?utm_source=chatgpt.com)

---

Discover how mental fitness, connection, and community can empower athletes to build their next chapter with purpose and confidence.

Making the transition from professional sports to life after the game isn’t easy. The questions are real: What’s next? Where do I channel my drive, discipline, and competitiveness?

In this episode of Athletes to Entrepreneurs: The Alumni Journey, host Rob Finkelstein, Founder and CEO of Alumni Direct, sits down with Robert Haar — an award-winning franchise consultant and Top 10 broker nationwide — to explore why franchising is becoming a powerful option for athletes stepping into their next chapter.

Robert brings over 25 years of experience as a business owner and franchise executive. From running restaurants to navigating corporate America, he’s lived the entrepreneurial journey and now helps professionals align with the right franchise opportunities.

Together, Rob and Robert unpack:

- The real challenges athletes face when leaving sports — from financial literacy to mental health.

- Why franchising provides structure, support, and proven systems for athletes starting fresh.

- The competitive edge athletes bring to business ownership: discipline, resilience, teamwork.

- How networking and mentorship accelerate success off the field.

- The step-by-step process of selecting a franchise that fits your goals and lifestyle.

If you’re an athlete (or know one) who’s ready to write the next playbook for success, this episode shows how franchising can open the door to long-term business ownership.

---

🔗 Connect with Robert Haar

- LinkedIn: [Robert Haar](https://www.linkedin.com/in/robert-haarbestfranchiseoptions/)

- Website: [Best Franchise Options](https://www.bestfranchiseoptions.com/)

🎧 Hosted by Rob Finkelstein, Founder & CEO of Alumni Direct

Connect with Alumni Direct:

Website: [alumnidirect.com]

Instagram: [@alumnidirect]

Facebook: [Alumni Direct]

LinkedIn: [Alumni Direct](https://linkedin.com/company/alumnidirect

---

Explore franchising as a career path after sports. Connect with experts like Robert Haar to build a trusted path to your next win

#AthletesToEntrepreneurs #FranchisePlaybook #RobertHaar #BusinessAfterSports #AthleteEntrepreneurship #FranchiseSuccess #CareerTransition #FromAthleteToOwner #SportsBusiness #WinningMindse

In this episode of Athletes to Entrepreneurs – The Alumni Journey, Rob Finkelstein sits down with Ben Utecht—a 6’7” Super Bowl Champion tight end, Chief Culture Officer, entrepreneur, award-winning speaker, author, and singer—to explore how athletes can embrace their identity beyond sports and design a meaningful second chapter of life.

Ben reflects on his journey from playing at the University of Minnesota and in the NFL with the Colts and Bengals to building a multifaceted career in leadership, culture development, music, and entrepreneurship. Recipient of the prestigious Uncommon Leader Award from NFL Hall of Fame coach Tony Dungy, Ben has inspired Fortune 500 companies as a subject matter expert on building high-performing organizational culture. Today, he serves as Chief Culture Officer for True North Private Equity, a franchisor for Conquer Ninja Gyms, culture and brand ambassador for Realty Group, and partner at Behavioral Essentials.

Beyond business, Ben shares his powerful personal story as a brain injury survivor. His career was cut short by concussions, leading him to become a national spokesperson for the American Academy of Neurology and author of Counting the Days While My Mind Slips Away, a moving account of his journey with memory loss and family life. His philanthropic work continues to raise awareness about brain health and the long-term effects of concussions.

Ben is also the author of The Champions Creed – Transform Your Culture through the Power of Belief!, where he draws on his football, business, and leadership experiences to provide a blueprint for designing winning cultures in both life and work.

An accomplished singer, Ben has recorded six albums, performed for two U.S. presidents, collaborated with world-renowned symphonies, and even serenaded Muhammad Ali. His viral song “You Will Always Be My Girls” further showcased his heart as a husband and father of four daughters.

Through this wide-ranging conversation, Ben and Rob explore the challenges athletes face during transition—mental health, financial literacy, and identity loss—and the importance of mentorship, alumni engagement, and continuous learning in preparing for life after sports. Ben also shares the story behind his entrepreneurial venture, SoleCare RX, an antibacterial and antifungal shower sock created to protect athletes’ health.

Ben’s journey is a reminder that culture is always created—by design or by default. His mission: to empower athletes and organizations alike to design cultures of inspiration, resilience, and growth.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• Why identity beyond athletics is key to a fulfilling life after sports

• How concussions shaped Ben’s career, philanthropy, and advocacy work

• The importance of continuous learning, mentorship, and networking in athlete transitions

• How discipline, perseverance, and empathy translate from sports to leadership

• Why culture is always “by design or by default”—and how to design it well

• Ben’s entrepreneurial journey with SoleCare RX and health innovation

• The role of storytelling in inspiring athletes and organizations alike

• How music, leadership, and family fuel Ben’s purpose-driven life

• Insights from Ben’s book The Champions Creed – Transform Your Culture through the Power of Belief!

  
  

Connect with Ben Utecht:

Facebook: Ben Utecht
X (formerly Twitter): @benutecht
Instagram: @benutecht
LinkedIn: Ben Utecht
Website: benutecht.com

Connect with Alumni Direct:

Website: alumnidirect.com
Instagram: @alumnidirect
X (formerly Twitter): @alumnidirect
Facebook: Alumni Direct
LinkedIn: Alumni Direct

If you’re ready to start building your network, connecting with fellow athletes, and unlocking resources to help you thrive beyond the game, visit alumnidirect.com today. Join a community that’s here to support you every step of the way.

In this episode of Athletes to Entrepreneurs – The Alumni Journey, Rob Finkelstein sits down with Darrell Teat—a husband, father, corporate board member, and CEO of **CxORE**—to explore the realities of athlete transition and how networking, mentorship, and leadership can guide athletes toward lasting success beyond the game.Darrell reflects on his own journey as a former athlete who transitioned from the court to the corporate world, navigating the challenges of leaving sports behind while finding his path in executive leadership. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships, engaging with alumni networks, and seeking mentorship to prepare for life after athletics. Through his experiences, Darrell highlights how the skills athletes develop—discipline, teamwork, and resilience—are invaluable in business, entrepreneurship, and community leadership.Beyond his career, Darrell’s story is about more than professional success—it’s about purpose, family, and creating opportunities for others. As CEO of CxORE, he helps businesses find executive solutions while staying deeply committed to mentorship and community engagement. His journey is a powerful reminder that athletes are more than their sport, and that with the right guidance, they can thrive in every arena of life.---What You’ll Learn in This Episode:- Why the transition out of sports is one of the biggest challenges athletes face- How networking while still playing sets the stage for future opportunities- The role of alumni engagement in providing mentorship and connections- Why athletes need more career education and guidance beyond sports- How discipline, leadership, and teamwork translate into business success- The value of mentorship as a roadmap for smoother career transitions- Why athletes must embrace their identity beyond athletics- Insights on the evolving NIL landscape and what it means for student-athletes- How CxORE provides solutions for businesses needing strong executive leadershipConnect with Darrell Teat:Website:[Cxore.com](http://Cxore.com) Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/company/cxore/Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/darrell_teat/---Connect with Alumni Direct:Website: [alumnidirect.com]Instagram: [@alumnidirect]X (formerly Twitter): [@alumnidirect]Facebook: [Alumni Direct](https://facebook.com/alumnidirectLinkedIn: [Alumni Direct](https://linkedin.com/company/alumnidirectIf you’re ready to start building your network, connecting with fellow athletes, and unlocking resources to help you thrive beyond the game, visit [alumnidirect.com] today.

Join a community that’s here to support you every step of the way

In this episode of Athletes to Entrepreneurs – The Alumni Journey, Rob Finkelstein sits down with James Toale, a former college baseball player turned entrepreneur, mentor, and Founder & CEO of 47 Inc, to explore how resilience, community, and innovation can transform setbacks into success.James shares his journey from Coral Springs, Florida, where he and his brother both pursued baseball dreams—his brother John drafted by the Boston Red Sox, while James played at Miami Dade College until a torn ACL ended his path to professional sports. That pivotal moment redirected his life toward entrepreneurship, leading him to own multiple businesses before the 2007 economic downturn changed everything again. Out of those challenges, James discovered network marketing, which not only reignited his drive but also inspired him and his wife to launch 47 Inc.Their company is focused on introducing innovative health products centered around safe hydration—with coconut water as a key ingredient—and built on a mission to help the 97% of people living paycheck to paycheck find hope and opportunity. Beyond business, James is deeply passionate about teaching health and business skills, serving as a coach and mentor, and paying it forward the right way.Whether you’re an athlete navigating transition, an entrepreneur seeking inspiration, or someone looking to combine personal development with business success, James’s story offers a roadmap of resilience, purpose, and impact.---What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

• How a career-ending ACL injury shifted James’s life trajectory
• The lessons of owning multiple businesses before and after 2007
• Why network marketing gave James a second chance at success
• How launching 47 Inc is helping people through hydration-focused health products
• The role coconut water plays in their innovative product line
• Why resilience and adaptability are key in both sports and business
• How athletes can leverage their mindset to succeed as entrepreneurs
• The importance of mentorship, coaching, and community support
• James’s passion for empowering others with business and personal development skills

Connect with James Toale:

Connect with James Toale:

FB: https://www.facebook.com/jamesjimtoale/

https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561198507425

---Connect with Alumni Direct:

Website: [alumnidirect.com]Instagram: [@alumnidirect](  / alumnidirect 

 Facebook: [Alumni Direct](  / alumnidirect  LinkedIn: [Alumni Direct](  / alumnidirect  If you’re ready to start building your network, connecting with fellow athletes, and unlocking resources to help you thrive beyond the game, visit [alumnidirect.com] today. Join a community that’s here to support you every step of the way.

In this episode of Athletes to Entrepreneurs – The Alumni Journey, host Rob Finkelstein sits down with Amobi Okugo, former professional soccer player turned entrepreneur, consultant, and business leader.

Amobi opens up about his transition from the pitch to business, why “checking in” with your network is a game-changer, and how athletes can redefine NIL to mean Network, Intellectual Property, and Leverage. He also shares the three-year reality of finding your “second game” after sports, and how his platform A Frugal Athlete evolved into Serve Consulting—helping athletes and organizations thrive through education, strategy, and resources.

Amobi also introduces his latest project, the Ok U GO Manifest Journal, designed to help athletes, entrepreneurs, and professionals set goals, stay accountable, and move with intentionality.

If you’re an athlete (current or former), or someone who supports athletes, this conversation is full of practical advice, inspiration, and tools to succeed both on and off the field.

What You’ll Learn in This Episode:

Why networking during your career creates future opportunities

A new approach to NIL: Network, Intellectual Property, and Leverage

The 3-year journey of athlete transition and finding your “second game”

The importance of education, financial literacy, and alumni connections

How Serve Consulting and the Ok U GO Manifest Journal empower athletes

Memorable Quotes:

“Don’t wait until after your career to network. Plant seeds while you’re still playing.”

“NIL isn’t just name, image, likeness—it’s Network, Intellectual Property, and Leverage.”

“Your transition won’t be overnight. Give yourself three years to truly find your second game.”

Connect with Amobi Okugo:

Website: AmobiOkugo.com

Instagram: @amobisays

TikTok: @amobisays

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/amobiokugo

Serve Consulting: serve.consulting

Ok U GO Manifest Journal: Shop Here

Connect with Alumni Direct:

Website: alumnidirect.com

Instagram: @alumnidirect

X/Twitter: @alumnidirect

Facebook: Alumni Direct

LinkedIn: Alumni Direct

🌐 Ready to start building your network? Visit alumnidirect.com

to join a community supporting athletes every step of the way.

#AthletesToEntrepreneurs #AmobiOkugo #LifeAfterSports #AthleteTransition #NetworkingMatters #NIL #AthletesSupportingAthletes #MentorshipMatters #AlumniConnections