Becoming UnDone®

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 appreciate what you said about me, but it all started with my mom." - Larry Johnson
5. "In New York, I'm known for the four-point play." - Larry Johnson

Resources:

• Larry Johnson on Twitter (X)
• "Kings of Vegas" Documentary - Details on the upcoming documentary about UNLV's basketball team's dominance.
• Mary Reiss Farias

For an in-depth dive into Larry Johnson's extraordinary career and inspiring life lessons, be sure to listen to this full episode. Stay tune

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 TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

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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 get on—as a lot of people do—things that really just something off the cuff might end up in a business plan, but that’s just something off the cuff that is totally against the grain." – Roger Morningstar
5. "I am Roger Morningstar and I am undone." – Roger Morningstar

Resources

• Toby Brooks: Twitter | Instagram | TikTok
• Larry Johnson: Basketball Network article
• UnDone Podcast Episodes:

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 TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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 Sports: AAI Sports Website
• Email Newsletter: Undone Podcast Newsletter
• YouTube Channel: Undone Podcast YouTube

Tune in to the full episode for an engaging dive into the making and remaking of Larry Johnson, where sports, culture, and personal perseverance are addressed through insightful discussions. Stay connected for more episodes that bring you behind-the-scenes stories of resilience and transformation.

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 TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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

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 TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

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."
2. Larry Chin: "We're always missing that one extra piece in the paint. Somebody could really just dominate inside the paint and cause people problems. And here comes Larry Johnson."
3. Larry Chin: "We basically didn't have to do [room checks] anymore because ... they really knew what was on the line."
4. Larry Chin: "We were returning to win a national championship and we're going to do it."
5. Larry Chin: "He was already a physical specimen ... He would practice hard, he would play hard."

Resources

• Becoming Undone Podcast: Undonepodcast CK page
• Follow Toby Brooks: @tobybrook

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 TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Dennis Helms is a distinguished figure in the world of basketball coaching, having served as the head coach at Odessa College from 1986 to 1996. A member of both the NJCAA Basketball Hall of Fame and the Upper Iowa Athletics Hall of Fame, Helms has coached ten players who went on to play in the NBA. Among these notable athletes is Larry Johnson, the most successful of his protégés. Helms's contributions to the sport and his impact on his players' careers have left a lasting legacy in the realm of junior college basketball.

Episode Summary

In this fun episode of Becoming UnDone®, host Toby Brooks delves into the intertwined stories of college football controversies and the illustrious career of Larry Johnson, with insights from his former coach, Dennis Helms. The episode opens with a critical look at how narratives of villainy, featuring figures like Craig James, have shaped sports history and altered the futures of programs and players. Brooks sets the stage with retellings of significant events involving SMU's scandalous past and its ripple effects on college basketball recruitment, leading to the fascinating detour in Larry Johnson’s path.

Brooks meticulously unravels the tale of how Craig James's involvement at SMU and Texas Tech drew widespread condemnation and comparisons to iconic villains from fiction. Through detailed storytelling, listeners discover how James's actions in the 1980s influenced Larry Johnson's forced detour from SMU to Odessa College. The second half of the episode pivots to an interview with Dennis Helms, who shares his experiences coaching Johnson at Odessa College. Helms highlights Johnson's extraordinary work ethic, academic strides, and significant contributions on and off the basketball court—a testament to how initial setbacks can fuel later triumphs.

Key Takeaways

• The Villainy Narrative: The episode explores how figures like Craig James have been portrayed as villains in college sports, drawing parallels to fictional antagonists.
• Impact on Larry Johnson: Insight into how SMU’s scandal and tightened academic scrutiny led to Larry Johnson’s unexpected journey through junior college before achieving stardom at UNLV.
• Coach Dennis Helms’s Perspective: Coach Helms recalls Johnson’s relentless work ethic and leadership at Odessa College, underscoring his academic and athletic development.
• Larry Johnson’s Legacy: Highlighting Johnson’s continued impact, including philanthropic efforts such as the Larry Johnson Recreation Center, and his personal generosity and concern for those who supported him.
• Educational Journey: Johnson’s advancement from a 7th to a 12th-grade reading level in a year demonstrates the critical role of academic support in athletes’ lives.

Notable Quotes:

1. Lincoln Riley: "He has an unbelievable sense of entitlement because of who his father is, one that hurts himself and the people around him."
2. Toby Brooks: “Leach chose silence in a three-way standoff between James, Leach, and Hance.”
3. Dennis Helms: "He was like a show in himself. When coaches and different people would come in and watch us, we did outdoor conditioning."
4. Toby Brooks: “But once that happened, the new admin knew they were under the microscope.”
5. Dennis Helms: "He was determined to show everyone that he could achieve greatness, despite the setbacks."

Resources:

• Tune in to hear the full episode and discover more compelling insights from Toby Brooks on Becoming UnDone®. Stay tuned for upcoming episodes where fascinating stories of resilience and triumph continue to unfold!

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 TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

About the Guest

Dr. Kwame M. Brown is a neuroscientist holding a PhD from Georgetown University and a BA in Molecular Biology from Hampton University. With an eight-year tenure as a professor of psychology at Hampton, Dr. Brown is widely recognized for his work as the "Neighborhood Neuroscientist," where he combines science, movement, and activism. Throughout his career, he has emerged as a respected scientist and a beloved educator, significantly contributing to his field and the lives of his students.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone®, hosted by Toby Brooks, we delve into the cultural and racial impacts of sports superstars, focusing on Larry Johnson. We start with a flashback to Johnson's rise to fame with the Charlotte Hornets, transitioning into a discussion about Toby's personal experiences that shape his view on growth, fear, and overcoming obstacles, inspired by Carol Dweck's work on mindset. We then segue into addressing prevalent societal issues such as racism and stereotypes, seen through the lens of Toby's admiration for black athletes and artists, against the backdrop of his predominantly white upbringing.

The latter half features an engaging conversation with Dr. Kwame M. Brown, exploring the intersection of nineties' hip-hop culture and basketball. Dr. Brown shares insights from his experiences growing up in Virginia, amidst prodigious talents like Allen Iverson and Michael Vick. The discussion also touches upon the influence of Larry Johnson, the cultural shifts in NBA and college sports, and the complexities of addressing racial stereotypes in advertising campaigns like Johnson's "Grandmama." The episode closes with reflections on the profound impact these cultural phenomena had on society and individual mindsets during the transformative early nineties era.

Key Takeaways:

• Growth vs. Fixed Mindset: Toby discusses Carol Dweck’s research on mindset and how shifting from a fixed to a growth mindset can profoundly affect one's success.
• Cultural Influence: The blend of hip-hop and sports in the nineties significantly impacted popular culture, with figures like Larry Johnson and Allen Iverson representing a shift towards authentic self-expression.
• Racial and Social Dynamics: The episode examines how racial stereotypes and cultural representation in advertising and sports impact perceptions and social dynamics.
• Advocacy and Activism: Dr. Brown emphasizes the ongoing struggle against racial stereotypes and the importance of ownership and expression in the black community.

Notable Quotes

1. Toby Brooks: "What I saw in Larry Johnson in 1991 was, in my mind, a superhero."
2. Dr. Kwame M. Brown: "The NBA slowly changing despite its own intention."
3. Dr. Kwame M. Brown: "No longer will you make money off our backs without us being able to express ourselves."

Resources

• Carol Dweck's Research on Mindset (For further reading on growth vs. fixed mindset).

Join us for this enlightening episode and stay tuned for more riveting conversations that unravel the untold stories and insights from our guests. Listen to the full episode on your favorite platform and immerse yourself in the riveting journey of Becoming UnDone®.

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 TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

About the Guest

JD Mayo is a legendary Texas high school basketball coach with a remarkable career that spans decades. Having played a significant role in shaping the lives of many young athletes, Coach Mayo is best known for his mentorship of former NBA star Larry Johnson during Johnson's high school years at Skyline High School. Beyond his coaching accolades, Mayo is celebrated for his holistic approach to player development, emphasizing character, academics, and life skills alongside basketball prowess.

Episode Summary

In this episode of the Becoming UnDone® docuseries, titled "The Making and Remaking of Larry Johnson," host Toby Brooks embarks on an engaging journey to uncover the origin story of basketball legend Larry Johnson. This episode weaves through a nostalgic tapestry of memories from Brooks’s own childhood, starting with a vivid bus ride in rural Illinois filled with early hip-hop influences, and leading into the inspiring tale of Larry Johnson’s rise from the challenging environment of the Dixon Circle housing projects in Dallas.

Brooks converses with the influential figure in Johnson’s life, Coach JD Mayo. Together, they delve into how Johnson’s early experiences and the support of his mother, Dorothea, shaped his career. Through engaging storytelling and rich details, they explore Johnson’s transition from high school to junior college, touching on moments of failure, resilience, and ultimately triumph. This episode provides deep insights into Johnson’s growth as a player and a person, emphasizing themes of encouragement, mentorship, and the impact of community in sports.

Key Takeaways

• The Early Years: Larry Johnson’s upbringing in the challenging environment of Dixon Circle projects, and how his passion for basketball provided an escape.
• The Role of Mentorship: Coach JD Mayo's significant influence on Johnson, emphasizing discipline, humility, and teamwork.
• Path to Success: The pivotal moments leading up to Johnson’s transfer to Skyline High School, facilitated by his mother, Dorothea's strategic decisions.
• Adversity and Resilience: Johnson’s journey from the disappointment at SMU to his successful tenure at Odessa College, highlighting his perseverance.
• Lifelong Impact: The enduring relationship between Coach Mayo and Larry Johnson, emphasizing the lasting impact of positive mentorship.

Notable Quotes

1. JD Mayo: "Coaches receive accolades because of those players. When the players do what you ask them to do, we call that execution."
2. Toby Brooks: "It wasn’t just something LL said within the confines of the now classic lyrics. It was actually something that was said to him to inspire him to press on."
3. JD Mayo: "She called him Dee Dee. His middle name's Demetrius. He said, 'Dee Dee, I don't know this man, and you don't either. But he's going to help you to be a better man, better student, and better player.'"
4. Larry Johnson: "I refused to blame anyone for our circumstances. My mindset was, if you want something, practice."
5. JD Mayo: "The good book says you love them. Forgive them, pray for them, then bless them. Now, who can do that? It takes something real special in your heart and mind."

Stay tuned for the next episode, where Toby Brooks continues to explore the making of Larry Johnson, featuring interviews and discussions that offer a deep dive into the societal impacts of early 90s NBA stars. Don't miss out on these engaging stories and insights – listen and subscribe to the Becoming UnDone® podcast on your favorite platforms.

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 TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Harold Kaufman
With over 35 years in sports, corporate, and business communications, Harold Kaufman is the founder of HK Communications, now part of Tony Fay Public Relations. He is a renowned media and communications specialist who served as the first PR representative for the Charlotte Hornets during their inaugural seasons. Kaufman also spent significant time with the New York Mets, contributing his extensive expertise in media relations and sports marketing.

Episode Summary:

In this engaging episode of Becoming UnDone, Part 1 of the Making (and re-making) of Larry Johnson docu-series," host Toby Brooks reminisces about the cultural phenomenon of Starter jackets in the 1990s and their deep connection to the Charlotte Hornets. Brooks paints a vibrant picture of the Hornets' early years, their bold teal and purple aesthetic, and the rise of basketball celebrity Larry Johnson. This episode dives into the Hornets' history, detailing their exceptional fan engagement and innovative marketing strategies that set them apart.

Brooks is joined by Harold Kaufman, the first PR representative for the Charlotte Hornets, who offers an insider’s view of the team’s initial impact and rise to fame. Kaufman discusses the monumental introduction of Larry Johnson to the team, the magnetic fan support, and how the Hornets captured the imagination of a global audience, despite their early struggles on the court. The episode also explores the ebb and flow of Johnson’s career, including his transition to the New York Knicks and his eventual reinvention as a versatile NBA player.

Key Takeaways:

• The Cultural Impact of Starter Jackets: The episode opens with Toby Brooks reflecting on the iconic status of Starter jackets, particularly the Charlotte Hornets’ teal and purple designs that became a global sensation in the early 90s.
• Founding of the Charlotte Hornets: Harold Kaufman recounts the founding of the Charlotte Hornets, highlighting the extraordinary relationship between the team and the community. The franchise quickly became the epicenter of local pride despite initial on-court struggles.
• Larry Johnson's Arrival: Johnson’s arrival in 1991, following the draft lottery win, marked a turning point for the Hornets. His personality and skill set made him an instant fan favorite and put Charlotte in the national spotlight.
• Reinvention and Legacy: The episode delves into Johnson’s career trajectory, illustrating how he adapted his playing style post-injury and left an indelible mark on the NBA, both with the Hornets and later with the Knicks.

Notable Quotes:

1. Harold Kaufman: "It's probably the most extraordinary relationship between a team and a community that I've ever witnessed or not only been a part of, but observed."
2. Toby Brooks: "Larry Johnson was everything I had ever wanted to be. He was a star. He was electric. He was a winner."
3. Harold Kaufman: "The memory of when you'd go with him through an appearance, how he was just so revered. My memory is just that smile he had, the gold tooth."

Resources:

• Tony Fay Public Relations: tonyfaypr.com
• Becoming UnDone Podcast: undonepodcast.com

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 TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.

Episode Summary

In this introspective episode of the Becoming UnDone® podcast, host Toby Brooks reflects on the multitude of changes he has experienced in the past few months. Transitioning from a long-term position at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center to a fresh start at Baylor University, Toby candidly discusses the whirlwind of onboarding, training, and adjustments that come with a new job. His journey is marked by personal and professional milestones, including watching his children grow up, making career sacrifices for family, and enduring bittersweet farewells.

Toby explores the profound impact of change, both in its ability to cause upheaval and promote growth. As he navigates everything from the sale of his family home to the loss of beloved pets, Toby finds solace and inspiration in music, specifically Blind Melon's track "Change." This episode delves deep into Toby's emotional landscape, offering listeners a raw and relatable perspective on coping with transitions and finding gratitude amidst the chaos.

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 TobyBrooksPhD. Listen, subscribe, and leave us a review Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you get your podcasts. 

Hosted by Simplecast, an AdsWizz company. See pcm.adswizz.com for information about our collection and use of personal data for advertising.