What happens when the dream you built your identity around suddenly ends?

This week on Black. Girl. Iowa., Emili sits down with leader, husband, father, former professional basketball player, and host of The Minds with Hakeem, Jjuan Hakeem.

From growing up in Beaumont, Texas to building a life in Iowa, Jjuan shares:

• The identity crisis that followed retiring from professional basketball

• Why asking for help is actually strength

• The power of long-standing friendships

• What it means to lead as a Black man in Iowa

• How faith grounds him in divisive times

They also get into career pivots, community work through Change Course, masculinity, mentorship, and yes — a little Cowboys vs. Packers debate.

This episode is about redefining success, restoring relationships, and remembering who you are beyond your title.

🎧 Listen now.