In this episode of Athletes to Entrepreneurs, Rob Finkelstein sits down with Steve Davis Jr., founder of Strive Higher After Sports and passionate advocate for helping athletes redefine themselves beyond the game. Steve brings a powerful blend of insight, experience, and heart to a conversation centered on athlete transition, identity, and building meaningful connections that fuel life after sports.

As a former athlete who walked the road himself, Steve understands the emotional and mental challenges of leaving the sport you love. From facing identity loss to figuring out what’s next, he’s made it his mission to equip athletes with tools, mentorship, and support systems to rise above the uncertainty and strive higher.

Rob and Steve dive into the importance of early life planning, alumni engagement, and how storytelling plays a key role in building a strong personal network. They discuss how community, mentorship, and mindset can turn a difficult transition into a launchpad for growth and purpose.

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🔑 Key Takeaways:

- Education Beyond Workshops: Real-life readiness requires more than just a few seminars.

- Relationships Build Resilience: A strong support system can be the game-changer post-career.

- Networking is Storytelling: Your journey is your brand—learn to share it.

- Identity Crisis is Real: Athletes must be intentional in rediscovering their purpose.

- Alumni Hold the Key: Engaging with former athletes creates opportunity and community.

- Start Planning Early: Transition should begin during your playing years, not after.

- Daily Growth Mindset: Every day is a chance to learn, evolve, and lead.

- Strong Foundations Create Strong Futures: Laying the groundwork now shapes what comes next.

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🤝 Connect with Steve Davis Jr.:

- Strive Higher After Sports: [www.strivehigheraftersports.com](http://www.strivehigheraftersports.com/)

- Linked In: https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevedav/

- Instagram: @SHED_AVE

- Book a Call to Steve: https://www.strivehigheraftersports.com/booking

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🔗 Connect with Us:

Follow Alumni Direct for more stories and resources to help you thrive beyond the game:

📸 Instagram: [@AlumniDirect](https://www.instagram.com/alumnidirect)

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

📘 Facebook: [Alumni Direct](https://www.facebook.com/alumnidirect)

If you’re an athlete preparing for your next chapter—or supporting someone who is—this episode delivers inspiration, strategy, and connection. Share it with teammates, coaches, and mentors, and help us spread the movement of empowering athletes after the jersey comes off.