Becoming UnDone® with Dr. Toby Brooks

About the Guest

Dr. Brittany Bankhead is an accomplished trauma surgeon known for her resilience and determination. She is a double board-certified academic trauma surgeon with an impressive history that includes transforming setbacks into stepping stones for success. Despite early challenges in her academic journey, including starting in an international medical program, Dr. Bankhead went on to complete her residency at prestigious institutions such as the University of Texas at Austin and a fellowship at Harvard Medical School. Beyond her medical expertise, she is an educator, researcher, entrepreneur, and a social media influencer who advocates for authenticity and balance in professional and personal life. Currently, she is a part of the Medical University of South Carolina.

Episode Summary

In this riveting episode of Becoming UnDone®, Dr. Toby Brooks interviews Dr. Brittany Bankhead, who shares her inspiring journey from struggling undergrad student to a double board-certified trauma surgeon. The episode sheds light on Dr. Bankhead's fortitude and willpower as she navigates the trials of medical school in the Caribbean, eventually securing a fellowship at Harvard. Her story is a testament to perseverance, evidenced by the uplifting message she later shared publicly, challenging naysayers who doubted her potential. Throughout her journey, Dr. Bankhead has embraced vulnerability and authenticity, carving a path that inspires budding medical professionals and beyond.

Moreover, the conversation delves into the personal aspects of Dr. Bankhead’s life, including her experiences during the COVID-19 pandemic as an ICU fellow in Boston. Her candid recounting of the profound personal and professional challenges faced during that time underscores the importance of mental health support in high-stakes environments. She discusses her journey of self-discovery and resilience that led to a rekindled marriage. By openly sharing these impactful experiences, Dr. Bankhead emerges as a beacon of hope and strength, advocating for authenticity and balance in multifaceted roles as a mother, surgeon, and emerging entrepreneur.

Key Takeaways

• Dr. Brittany Bankhead's journey from international medical school to Ivy League fellowship is a story of perseverance and determination against the odds.
• The importance of authenticity and embracing one's true self in professional settings is highlighted as a key to feeling a sense of belonging and maintaining mental well-being.
• Dr. Bankhead's experience during COVID-19 emphasizes the need for healthcare professionals to have access to mental health resources, considering the high stress and emotional challenges they face.
• A testament to second chances, Dr. Bankhead's remarriage to her husband illustrates personal growth and the importance of self-awareness in nurturing relationships.

Notable Quotes

1. "It's a pretty story on the other side, because now I can sit here and say, oof, that gave me grit. Oof, that gave me resilience."
2. "It turned out that once I started being me, then I felt like I belonged a lot more."

Resources

• Dr. Brittany Bankhead on Twitter and Instagram: @bbankheadmd

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

Join Dr. Toby Brooks in this introspective episode of Becoming UnDone® as he dives into the complex and riveting life story of Mike Tyson. Known for embracing failure, setbacks, and adversity, the podcast delves into how Tyson's early life of chaos and subsequent rise to become the youngest heavyweight boxing champion encapsulates resilience and redemption. Through Tyson's turbulent career, Brooks reflects on the lessons one can extract from his journey, creating a narrative filled with redemption, vulnerability, and growth.

In the episode, Brooks emphasizes the duality of Tyson's life as both a story of unprecedented success and formidable downfall. With a history marred by personal struggles, Tyson's raw tenacity the episode highlights, serves as a powerful example of how pain, if channeled effectively, can be turned into a pressing force for good. Tyson's evolution, from facing incarceration to rediscovering his identity beyond the ring, represents an extraordinary tale of the human spirit's ability to reintegrate and reinvent itself. Through Tyson's journey, listeners can identify key life lessons applicable to their own experiences, solidifying this episode as both a profound analysis and motivational discourse.

Key Takeaways

• Pain as Power: Discover how personal pain, when harnessed effectively, can transform into a source of power and drive.
• Support Systems Matter: Examine the critical role that support systems play in sustaining success and dealing with pressure.
• Redemption Journey: Embrace the belief that it's never too late to change and redefine your narrative, as exemplified by Tyson's transformation.
• Grounding Necessity: Understand the importance of staying grounded, especially when faced with rapid success, to prevent eventual collapse.
• Self-Reflection and Growth: Gain insight into the necessity for self-reflection and confronting personal demons as a pathway to personal growth and reinvention.

Notable Quotes

• "I'm not the guy I used to be. I've learned that pain is just part of the process and that you don't grow without it." – Mike Tyson
• "Your pain can be your power." – Toby Brooks
• "Success without grounding is fragile." – Toby Brooks
• "Redemption is always possible." – Toby Brooks
• "Who's your Cuss? Who's keeping you grounded?" – Toby Brooks

Resources

• Referenced People: DJ Jazzy Jeff and the Fresh Prince, Lewis Howes, Joe Rogan
• Events Mentioned: Fight with Buster Douglas, Bite fight with Evander Holyfield

Encouraging listeners to explore these themes further, this episode of Becoming UnDone® is a testament to the resilience found through the human spirit. Tune in to gain more profound insights into using life's raw materials for personal transformation and growth. Subscribe and listen to past episodes to continue your journey of self-discovery and empowerment with 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.

Episode Summary

In this episode of Becoming UnDone, host Toby Brooks dives into the core idea that traditional paths to success are not always the best or only options. Drawing from personal experiences and anecdotes, Toby explores the notion that real growth and fulfillment often lie in daring to carve your own path and questioning societal norms. This episode challenges listeners to step away from outdated blueprints of success and find their true selves through authenticity and self-discipline. 

Throughout the episode, Toby emphasizes the importance of discipline over motivation, arguing that routine commitment and setting personal goals are essential for achieving true satisfaction in life. The episode also highlights stories of individuals who have dared to pursue their own dreams and defy the expectation of conformity, including references to the inspiring film "Rudy." Brooks encourages listeners to engage with his community, share their experiences, and support one another in forging individualized paths to growth and fulfillment. 

Key Takeaways 

• Challenge Conventional Paths: Real success often requires stepping away from societal norms and creating a unique path that aligns with personal values and aspirations.
• The Power of Discipline: Unlike fleeting motivation, discipline fuels sustained commitment toward goals and dreams, even when external results are not immediately visible.
• Growth Beyond Rules: True growth involves questioning the status quo and being willing to rewrite the rules, especially when conventional wisdom does not resonate personally.
• Authenticity Over Conformity: Building a life that fits one's own passions and dreams, rather than conforming to societal expectations, leads to deeper fulfillment and success.
• Community Support: Engaging with supportive communities can enhance accountability and encouragement as individuals pursue unique and fulfilling paths.

Notable Quotes

• "Disciplined commitment to your own path can reveal a success that's fulfilling and uniquely yours."
• "Zigging when the world is zagging takes guts."
• "Motivation is a mirage; what you need is discipline."
• "Life is too short to follow instructions that don’t align with your soul."
• "Success isn't just about hard work. It’s about building a path that feels right, even if no one else understands it."

Resources

• Visit the Undone Facebook Group to share your experiences with the community: TheUnDone

Tune in to this episode for an inspiring conversation on breaking free from the norm to achieve personal success. Don't miss upcoming episodes as Toby continues to explore transformative stories and insights on 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

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 zone."
5. "Ignorance is bliss… If I had any idea what it would take or cost, I probably wouldn't have done these things like this."

Resources:

• Dobbertin Performance

Listeners are encouraged to delve into the full episode to capture the depth of Rick’s experiences and his profound insights into engineering and invention. Stay tuned for more captivating stories and lessons from high achievers on 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 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."

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:

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, a humorous take on post-high school sports.
• Join the new community for high achievers on Facebook: The Undone Facebook Group.

Dive into the full episode for an inspiring look at resilience, growth, and identity with Taye Brooks. Stay tuned to "Becoming Undone" for more illuminating conversations exploring the fascinating journeys of individuals daring to redefine achievement.

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. 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 our green scrubs, and people are always happy to see us." — Dr. Carly Dillard

Resources

• Dr. Carly Dillard's Podcast: Pink Table Talk
• Available platforms: Apple, Spotify, Amazon, Google
• Podcast Social Media: Search for "Pink Table Talk" on typical platforms for updates and episodes

Don't miss out on this inspiring and educational episode with Dr. Carly Dillard. Listen to the full episode to explore her compelling story and gather insights into resilience, empowerment, and the transformative power of education. Stay tuned for more episodes from "Becoming Undone" where we dive

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

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 Instagram: @JoeCherewan
• Explore Joe's dog breeding efforts at Rott-N-Frenchies: Rott-N-Frenchies Facebook

For more on Joe Cherewan’s compelling journey of mastery, passion, and transformation, and to explore how he embodies personal growth beyond professional identities, tune into the full episode. Plus, stay connected with future episodes of Becoming UnDone® to draw continued inspiration from stories of personal and professional development.

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 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. 

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

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:

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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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