In the spirit of March Madness Today In the Room, Dr. Rees and Megan dive into the emotional, psychological, and systemic layers of being an athlete versus being a fan. From childhood sports trauma and showing up for your kid to the mental health realities of student-athletes and how NIL is changing the game, this one is packed. Whether you’re in the game or in the stands, there’s something here for you.

We talk real about representation, identity, leadership, money, pressure, performance, and what it really means to show up. Plus, we explore the blurred lines between passion, profession, and purpose and why self-awareness and sustainability matter more than ever.

✋🏽 5 Powerful Takeaways:

1. Showing up is currency. Whether it’s in parenting, leadership, or friendship, presence matters more than presents.

2. Being a student-athlete is a different grind. The mental, emotional, and physical toll goes far beyond the game, and most athletes don’t go pro.

3. Money ≠ support. Getting paid doesn’t guarantee holistic care, especially when athletes are treated like products and not people.

4. Fandom holds power. Where you put your attention and dollars shapes the culture of sports and whose voices get amplified.

5. Sustainability is key. Whether in sports, business, or life, true success is about consistency, not just highlights.