About the Guest:

Rick Dobbertin is a renowned engineer, fabricator, and entrepreneur known for his groundbreaking work in the field of custom car building and vehicular engineering. He gained fame in the 1980s for his work on high-performance pro street cars, including the iconic Nova and J2000 builds. Rick’s inventive spirit led him to create the Dobbertin Surface Orbiter, an amphibious vehicle made from a 1959 milk tanker that logged 33,000 miles across 28 countries. Currently, Rick runs Dobbertin Performance, a company specializing in high-performance automotive components.

Episode Summary:

In this riveting episode of "Becoming UnDone," host Toby Brooks interviews Rick Dobbertin, a legendary figure in the world of engineering and custom car creation. Known for his incredible innovations and transformative approach to vehicular design, Rick takes us on an exciting journey through his career – from his early fascination with mechanical objects to the creation of the legendary Dobbertin Surface Orbiter, and his radical shifts into various engineering territories. Engaging and insightful, the conversation illuminates how Rick's relentless curiosity and inventiveness propelled him into crafting vehicles that pushed boundaries and redefined possibilities.

Rick's journey is a story of awe-inspiring achievements and personal trials as he narrates the challenges and triumphs of building some of the most audacious machines known in the automobile world. His ventures include the pioneering hot rods of the 1980s pro street movement, like the J2000 and the Nova, which featured cutting-edge designs and innovative engineering. The episode delves into Rick’s relentless pursuit of pushing the envelope, from the engineering marvel of his amphibious surface orbiter to his robust performance components business, imparting invaluable insights into the ingenuity and resilience that drive transformational life achievements.

Key Takeaways:

• Rick Dobbertin's transformative impact on the pro street car scene began with remarkable builds like the Nova and J2000, which pushed the boundaries of car engineering.
• The Dobbertin Surface Orbiter project demonstrates Rick's ability to merge theoretical ideas with practical engineering, culminating in an amphibious vehicle capable of traversing both land and sea.
• Rick shares how obsession and dedication can both fuel achievement and bring personal and financial challenges, shedding light on the labor-intensive creativity in automotive engineering.
• Through reflective anecdotes, Rick discusses the evolution of his work, underlining the importance of balancing personal passions with professional and familial responsibilities.
• Rick’s current venture, Dobbertin Performance, exemplifies his enduring commitment to innovation, offering high-performance automotive solutions worldwide.

Notable Quotes:

1. "I don't consider myself in the top… because I know what went into it, and I'm pretty much just an average person."
2. "This is just to say I did it. And now I can say I did it because I did it."
3. "If a little is good, then a lot is better and too much is just right."
4. "Everybody should travel out of their own comfort zo

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Support the show

Becoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Host:

In this episode, Toby Brooks, a speaker, author, professor, and forever student, shares his reflections on life experiences that have shaped his journey. With expertise in inspiring growth and personal development, Toby engages audiences with his unique perspective on navigating life's transitions. 

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of "Becoming Undone," Toby Brooks takes the audience on a nostalgic journey back to his childhood, recounting vividly the memorable birthday parties of his close-knit friend group. Through masterful storytelling filled with humor and warmth, Toby reflects on how those formative experiences shaped his life, eventually tying them into valuable life lessons. The episode captivates listeners with intriguing anecdotes and relatable sentiments about friendship, change, and personal growth.

Delving deeper into the narrative, Toby uses the metaphor of a birthday party to explore the concept of knowing when it's time to move on from various life situations such as careers, relationships, and environments. Using his Top 3 Ways to Know It's Time to Quit Your Job, he offers actionable insights into self-awareness and decision-making, infused with SEO-relevant terms like career paths and personal development. Whether it's being the last guest at a birthday party or realizing a career has soured, Toby artfully connects these moments to themes of self-discovery, illustrating the subtle yet profound signals that indicate the necessity of change.

Key Takeaways:

• Lifelong friendships often form during pivotal moments in childhood, creating lasting memories and influencing personal development.
• Recognize the signs of when it's time to move on by examining the facts, assessing your environment, and listening to your inner voice.
• Understanding the feeling of overstaying your welcome can provide valuable lessons in career and life transitions.
• Self-awareness and adaptability are crucial in navigating career shifts and finding fulfillment.
• Embrace change as a pathway to growth and discovering new opportunities that align with personal evolution.

Notable Quotes:

• "All share some common signs that we can learn from."
• "Is your work still meaningful? Are you treated with respect? Are you seeing growth?"
• "Do they share your values and vision? Or is there a growing divide?"
• "How do you really feel? Often, we already know the answer."
• "Sometimes, finally leaving the party is the first step toward finding something even better."

Discover the fullness of Toby's reflections by listening to the entire episode and staying engaged with future content. Toby's insights and storytelling will leave you eager to explore further episodes of "Becoming Undone."

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Support the show

Becoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest:

Taye Brooks is a college freshman at Lubbock Christian University with an avid passion for sports, particularly baseball, which he has played since a young age. He also has a keen interest in mathematics and has weathered significant challenges, including a range of injuries and a prolonged mystery illness, to gain a deep understanding of his personal worth beyond a sports identity. Taye credits his development to the Christian values instilled by his family and educators, fostering a profound focus on character and faith in Christ.

Episode Summary:

In this powerfully reflective episode of "Becoming UnDone" hosted by Toby Brooks, listeners are welcomed into a candid and heartfelt conversation between Toby and his son, Taye Brooks. Taye shares a personal journey marked by challenges, triumphs, and the significant decision to embrace education over sports. Having grown up with a strong identity in sports only to face unexpected injuries and health issues, Taye found himself redefining his self-worth and revisiting foundational values instilled by his family.

The episode dives deep into Taye's transformation from an athlete overshadowed by multiple injuries to a college freshman choosing academic aspirations over potential sports careers. Despite moving from a large public high school to a smaller Christian academy, Taye discovered the community and mentorship needed to grow spiritually and personally. This journey catalyzed a shift from a sports-centric mindset to developing a richer understanding of his capabilities and purpose. Engaging stories and profound insights reveal the importance of character, faith, and the enduring impact of supportive communities.

Key Takeaways:

• Taye Brooks' journey of facing and overcoming significant injuries helped him discover his personal worth beyond being an athlete.
• Navigating the transfer from a large public school to a smaller Christian school played a crucial role in Taye's spiritual and personal growth.
• Emphasizing character and faith over sports illustrated Taye's matured decision-making in prioritizing his academic and life goals.
• Taye’s experience demonstrates the critical influence of mentorship and a supportive community in personal development and self-discovery.
• Learning to direct his purpose-driven identity toward Christ, Taye advocates for nurturing relationships, self-reflection, and embracing change.

Notable Quotes:

• "Going through the recovery process made me realize that I'm worth more than just who I am on the field."
• "I realized lots of things that… what I was all about and where to place my identity."
• "I wanted to be able to play at the next level, and I guess that would be my dream."
• "Embracing change is good, and moving forward with that faith can make you stronger."
• "Just because you fail doesn't mean that you're a failure."

Resources:

• Becoming Undone Podcast: Undonepodcast.com
• Follow Taye Brooks on Instagram at Sigma Tech - Taye's Intramural Team

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest:

Dr. Carly Dillard is a clinical assistant professor at Baylor University, esteemed for her background in nursing education. She holds an advanced degree of Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) from Capella University and a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from Elmira College. Dr. Dillard is not only an accomplished educator but also the host of "Pink Table Talk," a podcast focusing on women empowerment and personal success stories. She is a first-generation college graduate, having navigated difficult life circumstances including poverty and family tragedy, to achieve personal and professional success.

Episode Summary:

In episode 102 of the "Becoming UnDone" podcast, host Toby Brooks interviews Dr. Carly Dillard to uncover her inspiring journey from hardship to success. The episode delves into Dr. Dillard's background as the eighth of nine children, growing up in poverty after the loss of her father, and the trials she faced in her pursuit of higher education. As a first-generation college student, she overcame numerous adversities to eventually earn her doctorate in nursing, striving to ensure a stable future for herself and her family.

In this engaging episode, Dr. Dillard opens up about her perseverance through life-altering challenges, including her experience as a survivor of domestic violence. Her drive to overcome these hardships empowered her pursuit of a doctoral degree while managing motherhood and a challenging professional path. Throughout the discussion, Dr. Dillard shares her insights on the role of education as a transformative force in her life and how she utilizes her experiences to inspire students and podcast audiences alike. Dr. Dillard also highlights her passion for teaching nursing with compassion and empathy, thus preparing the next generation of health care professionals. 

Key Takeaways:

• Educational Journey: Dr. Dillard shares her transition from a tumultuous upbringing to obtaining a terminal degree in nursing, underscoring the importance of education as a tool for empowerment and stability.
• Balancing Life's Challenges: Her narrative emphasizes resilience through personal hardships, proving that determination can surmount significant adversities.
• Career in Education: Transitioning from patient care to academia, she highlights how teaching presents a valuable opportunity to impact future healthcare professionals.
• Advocacy and Empowerment: Dr. Dillard's podcast, "Pink Table Talk," aims to highlight success stories of women overcoming obstacles and advocates for women's empowerment.
• Community and Influence: Through her roles as an educator and podcaster, Dr. Dillard showcases how sharing personal journeys can empower and energize others striving for achievement.

Notable Quotes:

• "We learned what hunger means. We learned how to go without." — Dr. Carly Dillard
• "I just had this attitude to not give up. And it was like, to keep going, just keep going." — Dr. Carly Dillard
• "It's truly a calling and a passion of mine…caring for others, especially during the time of need." — Dr. Carly Dillard
• "I love walking in with my Baylor group. Everybody knows our

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest:

Joe Cherewan is a world-class metal finisher known particularly for his expertise within the automotive industry, attracting a global clientele, including high-profile drag racers and car enthusiasts. Joe has honed his unique skill set over decades, working on high-performance dream builds, including street-strip and showcar projects. Although he stepped away from the field recently, he's also ventured into breeding champion French Bulldogs, indicative of his continuous pursuit of excellence, regardless of field or industry.

Episode Summary:

In this revealing episode of Becoming UnDone, Toby Brooks delves into the world of Joe Cherewan, an acclaimed metal finisher whose work transformed high-performance cars into road-going masterpieces. This discussion provides listeners with an inside look at Joe's journey, highlighting his rise to fame in the automotive world, why he chose to leave it all behind, and what he’s learned about the pursuit of perfection. The journey is sparked from humble beginnings in a 7th-grade shop class to becoming a global beacon in automotive finishing that attracted royalty and race champions alike.

Through this insightful conversation, Brooks and Cherewan address the thematic trappings of professional success, craft mastery, and personal satisfaction. They touch upon subjects like the impact of economic conditions on niche markets such as metal finishing, handling demanding clientele, and finding equilibrium between professional achievements and personal well-being. This episode serves as a reflection on how one's career can both serve as a source of substantial acclaim and demand profound personal sacrifice, while also providing a blueprint on navigating such complex experiences.

Key Takeaways:

• Craft Mastery and Professional Growth: Joe’s rise to the top of the metal finishing industry was driven by a commitment to perfection and an eye for marketing and branding his work.
• Work-Life Balance: The demands of high-profile work left Joe with feelings of burnout, prompting him to prioritize personal well-being and balance.
• Clientele Challenges: Navigating relationships with exacting clients in a high-stakes, high-budget industry posed significant experiences and learning moments.
• Life Beyond the Industry: Joe pivoted to newfound passions, such as champion French Bulldog breeding, showcasing his ability to apply similar dedication across different ventures.
• Finding Value in Self-Accomplishment: The importance of self-validation over external acknowledgment is emphasized as Joe overall matured and reflected on his professional journey.

Notable Quotes:

• "It was immaturely making a mature decision, I'm gonna do something really bad or walk away."
• "I don't ever want to have to take that favor from anybody. I don't want to be back in somebody's pocket."
• "If I want to learn about a pencil, I'm going to master that learning process of anything I put my mind to."
• "At the end of the day, if you don't believe in yourself... you're never truly going to find it."

Resources:

• Follow Joe Cherewan on Insta

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest: 

Larry Johnson, also known by his alter ego "Grandmama," is a legendary basketball player who made a significant mark in the NBA during the 1990s. Born in Dallas, Texas, he was the first overall pick in the 1991 NBA Draft by the Charlotte Hornets and was named NBA Rookie of the Year. Johnson played college basketball at UNLV where he won a national championship. He later played for the New York Knicks and is celebrated for his powerful play and team-oriented approach. Following his professional career, Larry transitioned into a role as a player ambassador for the NBA. 

Episode Summary: 

In this riveting episode of "Becoming Undone," host Toby Brooks welcomes NBA legend Larry Johnson to discuss his extraordinary journey from a challenging upbringing in Dallas, Texas, to becoming a collegiate standout and an NBA All-Star. Johnson shares vivid anecdotes from his early years, including his influential relationship with Coach JD Mayo and life lessons from his mother, Dorotha. The episode chronicles Johnson’s college career at Odessa Junior College and UNLV, his conversation with Nike, and his iconic "Grandmama" campaign with Converse. 

Larry dives into the emotional impact of his father's absence, his time at UNLV under Coach Tark, and his unexpected transition to Converse after Nike’s rejection. The dialogue unfolds to reveal Johnson’s thoughts on the evolution of basketball, the challenge of transitioning from his athletic prime due to a back injury, and his continuation as a player ambassador for the Knicks. Filled with wisdom from Johnson’s playing days and reflections on his ongoing journey, this episode is a treasure trove for basketball enthusiasts and those eager to understand the mindset of a high achiever. 

Key Takeaways: 

• Influence of Early Mentors: Johnson credits much of his success to his junior high and high school coaches, particularly JD Mayo, who instilled discipline and a team-first mentality.
• College and NBA Transitions: Faced with setbacks like missing out on a Division I college right out of high school, Johnson's time at Odessa Junior College and UNLV prepared him extensively for the challenges in the NBA.
• Grandmama Campaign Insight: Initially skeptical, Johnson embraced the iconic Converse "Grandmama" persona, which became a defining element of his career and helped cement his place in popular culture.
• Resilience and Adaptation: Despite early career highs, a significant back injury required Johnson to adapt his playing style and eventually retire, underscoring his ongoing resilience and ability to reinvent himself.
• Team Player Legacy: Throughout his career, Johnson's identity as a team player remained central, contributing to his successful transitions both on and off the court.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Once I went through the discipline of Skyline High School and Coach Mayo, everything else was easy." - Larry Johnson
2. "Nike told me to my face that they didn't want to sign me because they didn't think I would be a good pro." - Larry Johnson
3. "My whole career is because of the people that I've met. And it started with JD Mayo." - Larry Johnson
4. "I appreci

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest:

Roger Morningstar is a former Kansas Jayhawk standout and converse executive. He averaged 23 points per game at Dundee High School, was an NJCAA All-American at Olney College, and won two consecutive Big Eight titles with the Kansas Jayhawks. Roger was drafted by the Boston Celtics and had a stint in Europe before joining converse, where he played a critical role in sports marketing and athlete endorsements, including the notable Grandmama campaign with NBA star Larry Johnson.

Episode Summary:

Welcome to the next-to-last episode of the "Making and Remaking of Larry Johnson" series. Host Toby Brooks delves into the fascinating journey of NBA star Larry Johnson and his storied partnership with Converse, which brought the iconic Grandmama campaign to life. This deep dive begins with a nostalgic look at brand loyalties and the cultural significance of athletic footwear during the late '80s and early '90s, setting the stage for an exploration of Larry Johnson's impactful endorsement career.

This episode also features an insightful interview with Roger Morningstar, a former Kansas Jayhawk standout who later became an executive at converse. Roger shares his experiences and stories from his career, shedding light on how Converse landed Larry Johnson amid a competitive market dominated by Nike. He talks about the creative process behind the Grandmama campaign, addressing its legacy and controversial interpretations. This episode not only revisits pivotal moments in sports marketing history but also highlights the enduring appeal and relatable persona of Larry Johnson, making it a rich narrative for fans and marketers alike.

Key Takeaways:

• Nike's Missed Opportunity: Larry Johnson was initially interested in signing with Nike, but they declined, believing he wouldn't have a successful pro career due to his height. This opened the door for Converse to step in.
• Creative Marketing: The notable Grandmama campaign, despite initial skepticism, became an iconic marketing success that showcased Larry Johnson's personality and relatability. 
• Cultural Impact: The clever and humorous nature of the Grandmama campaign left a lasting impression on fans and is still remembered fondly decades later.
• Controversy and Criticism: Some modern critics view the campaign as an instance of "buck breaking," but insiders like Roger Morningstar emphasize the fun and lighthearted intent behind it.
• Legacy of Relationships: Roger Morningstar highlights the enduring relationships formed during his career, including his ongoing connection with Larry Johnson, signifying the deeper personal impacts beyond mere professional achievements.

Notable Quotes:

1. "They said they weren’t going to sign me. Nike flat out told me they didn’t think I would have a good pro career because of my height." – Larry Johnson
2. "They came up with this Grandmama thing… it was, if you have a little sense of humor, it was pretty cool." – Roger Morningstar
3. "Larry Johnson is going to become Grandmama, and she’s just going to dunk on people and jump over people and do all this crazy stuff." – Roger Morningstar
4. "We just

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest:

George Bass is the President of AAI Sports, a company representing some of the brightest stars in professional sports. With an accounting background and a pivot into the sports realm, George has played a significant role as a sports agent for big names like Michael Irvin of the Dallas Cowboys and NBA star Larry Johnson. He has a unique perspective on the player-agent relationship, having been a part of critical contracts and career-defining moments in sports history.

Episode Summary:

In this captivating episode of "Becoming UnDone," host Toby Brooks connects with George Bass, a prominent figure in the sports agent industry, to discuss the illustrious career of NBA star Larry Johnson. Toby shares a nostalgic walk through memory lane, reminiscing about his high school years and his admiration for Larry Johnson, providing listeners with a vivid recount of how sports and culture intertwine. Toby sets the stage with his own experiences before diving deep into the professional life and challenges faced by Larry Johnson.

George Bass provides an insider's perspective on Larry Johnson's journey from college basketball phenom to NBA superstar. The episode traces Larry's early years, culminating in his first major contract with the Charlotte Hornets and his iconic role as "Grandmama" in the Converse ad campaigns. Filled with anecdotes about Larry's resilience and memorable moments in his career, the conversation also highlights the critical role of Larry’s mother, Dortha Johnson, and how Larry’s humble nature and adaptability distinguished him in the sports world.

Key Takeaways:

• Larry Johnson's Early Career: Larry’s transition from college standout to the NBA first overall pick and his immediate impact in Charlotte.
• Challenges and Setbacks: The struggles with injuries and how they affected Larry’s game, leading to a significant career shift and eventually a trade.
• Cultural Impact: Larry’s influence on Charlotte's fan base and the role of the iconic "Grandmama" Converse campaign.
• Adaptation and Resilience: Larry's adaptation to changing roles and responsibilities on different teams, showcasing his versatility and survival instincts in the NBA.
• Personal Insights: George Bass's personal anecdotes about Larry’s character, humility, and interactions with other sports legends like Muhammad Ali.

Notable Quotes:

1. George Bass: "Larry is such a humble guy. He comes in, the fans just fall in love with him, and then we land on grandmama with converse."
2. Toby Brooks: "Larry Johnson was having moment after moment of his own, just one season removed from being awarded the NBA's rookie of the year."
3. George Bass: "Larry's just a survivor. He's like, okay, and I don't remember when Jeff was out and coach Thibodeaux came in, but all of a sudden, Larry was a point forward."
4. Toby Brooks: "If there's a more incredible six-year run of awards in any sport, I'd be stunned."
5. George Bass: "He's always been like that. And you know what, it's been such a blessing for me to be able to work with him."

Resources:

• George Bass at AAI

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

In this fun and insightful episode of "Becoming UnDone," host Toby Brooks takes an in-depth look at the college career of basketball legend Larry Johnson. As we reach part six of our nine-part docuseries, "The Making and Remaking of Larry Johnson," Brooks captures not just the milestones, but the spirit and resilience of a player who overcame significant hurdles to rise to fame.

Larry Johnson's path from the Dixon Circle housing projects of Dallas to NCAA stardom at UNLV is nothing short of inspirational. This episode highlights Johnson's time at Odessa College, where he shone under coach Dennis Helms, and his subsequent rise to prominence at UNLV despite the backdrop of controversy and sanctions. Brooks dives into statistics and key moments, recounting the explosive playing style that made the 1990 Championship game against Duke an unforgettable clash of cultures. With personal reflections and riveting recounts, this episode is a beacon for anyone looking to draw motivation from a true sports icon.

Key Takeaways:

• Larry Johnson's Early Years: Larry Johnson came from challenging beginnings in the Dixon Circle housing projects of Dallas and overcame academic hurdles to play at Odessa College.
• Success at Odessa College: Under Coach Dennis Helms, Larry became the only player in history to win back-to-back NJCAA Division One Player of the Year awards, posting record-breaking numbers.
• UNLV Dominance: Despite NCAA sanctions and media scrutiny, Johnson led the UNLV Running Rebels to a dominating NCAA Championship win against Duke in 1990, followed by an undefeated regular season in 1990-91.
• Inspiration and Resilience: Johnson's relentless work ethic and personal perseverance have become a source of inspiration, extending beyond athletics into the lives of those who follow his journey.
• Future Episodes: Toby Brooks teases upcoming interviews with Larry Johnson’s agent, George Bass, and perhaps Johnson himself, marking a climactic end to this compelling docuseries.

Notable Quotes:

1. "Under Helms' leadership, Larry attended study tables regularly, focusing on his grades, and over time, the problems that had plagued his admittance to SMU as a high school senior weren't a problem anymore." - Toby Brooks
2. "Despite the obstacles, the Rebels opened the year as a preseason number one... ultimately finishing the season with an impressive 35 and 5 record." - Toby Brooks
3. "In every episode prior in this series, I've been fairly light on the details and heavy on the story. But today, today is different for two reasons." - Toby Brooks
4. "While it would be wrong of me to say I grew up in the same circumstances as Larry... I grew up with needs too." - Toby Brooks
5. "It's been said you should never meet your heroes because inevitably their humanity will let you down and disappoint you. And while that very well may be the case, I will say simply by the example of his sheer power of will of excellence on the floor and resilience in the face of adversity, a hero like Larry was exactly what I needed." - Toby Brooks

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Support the show

Becoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.

About the Guest:

Larry Chin is the long-serving Assistant Equipment Manager at the University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) athletics department, working with the institution for over four decades. Starting as a student manager in 1974, Chin became a pivotal part of the equipment staff, overseeing several prominent sports, including the legendary men's basketball program under Coach Jerry Tarkanian. His career encompasses managing equipment for numerous high-profile games, including UNLV's celebrated 1990 NCAA Championship win. Larry’s enduring commitment to the Rebels' program makes him a cornerstone of UNLV athletics history.

Episode Summary:

In the latest episode of "Becoming UnDone," host Toby Brooks takes listeners back to 1989 with a captivatingly personal tale about high school trials and the social obsession with popularity and athletic prowess, all while pivoting to the poignant and historical journey of NBA and NCAA legend Larry Johnson. This episode, part five in the series titled The Making and Remaking of Larry Johnson, features an in-depth conversation with Larry Chin, University of Nevada Las Vegas's longtime Assistant Equipment Manager, shedding light on the inner workings of one of college basketball's most legendary programs.

Toby Brooks and Larry Chin explore the transformative years of UNLV's storied basketball program. Key topics revolve around Larry Johnson's pivotal role on the team and the intricate dynamics within college athletics, particularly during the Rebels' prominent 1989–1990 seasons. They delve into the personal and team ethics that contributed to UNLV's cohesion and success, as well as the broader implications of NCAA regulations over time. With fascinating anecdotes about team synergy and the essential but often underappreciated role of support staff, this episode promises enlightening insights into the making of a champion team and the professionals who helped drive their success.

Key Takeaways:

• High School Memories and Aspirations: Toby Brooks shares a vivid memory from 1989, providing a nostalgic and relatable backdrop before diving into the main focus on Larry Johnson.
• Larry Chin’s Role at UNLV: Larry Chin recounts his unexpected journey from high school equipment manager to a pivotal role in UNLV's athletics department, underscoring the often overlooked contribution of support staff.
• UNLV Basketball’s Evolution: Insightful discussion on the impact of Larry Johnson's arrival at UNLV and the transformation he brought to the team’s dynamics and performance.
• Team Dynamics and Ethics: Stories that illustrate the strong ethics and disciplined approach of the 1989-1990 UNLV team, crushing stereotypes and emphasizing their businesslike approach to the game.
• Changing Landscape of College Athletics: Examination of the changes in NCAA regulations over the decades, including the introduction of NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) and its implications for college sports.

Notable Quotes:

1. Larry Chin: "He [Larry Johnson] came in, he said, I want to fit in. I want to help you guys. I want to win a championship with you guys. You know, tell me what you need and I'll do it."

Reach out to Becoming UnDone! Text Toby here!

Support the show

Becoming Undone is a NiTROHype Creative production. Written and produced by me, Toby Brooks. If you or someone you know has a story of resilience and victory to share for Becoming Undone, contact me at undonepodcast.com. Follow the show on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn at becomingundonepod and follow me at TobyJBrooks. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts.