In this episode of the Thanks But No One Asked You podcast, host Britt Hunter engages in a lively conversation with AJ Schaufler, the Assistant Commissioner of the MAAC Conference. They discuss a range of topics including Lane Kiffin's coaching decisions, personal anecdotes about life in New York City, the challenges of aging while working with youth, and the impact of NIL on college athletics. AJ shares insights from his career journey, including his experiences in law school and the importance of student development. The conversation wraps up with advice for student-athletes and interns, emphasizing the need for humility and continuous learning. Takeaways Britt reflects on consumer culture and the tendency to buy solutions instead of using what we already have. AJ shares his admiration for Lane Kiffin's coaching journey and the complexities of coaching transitions. The conversation touches on the importance of music in personal life and how it shapes identity. AJ recounts his experiences living in New York City and the lessons learned from being broke. The realization of aging comes from working with younger generations and recognizing cultural shifts. AJ discusses his career path from law school to compliance in college athletics, highlighting the unpredictability of career trajectories. The impact of NIL on college athletics is explored, particularly how it affects student-athlete dynamics and institutional culture. AJ emphasizes the importance of career development for student-athletes beyond just sports. The need for empathy and understanding in sports culture is highlighted, especially regarding walk-ons and non-revenue sports. Britt and AJ discuss the importance of humility and continuous learning in professional development.

Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Technical Challenges

02:45 Lane Kiffin's Coaching Decisions

05:56 Music Preferences and Nostalgia

08:52 Life in New York City

11:49 Aging and Working with Youth

14:53 AJ's Career Journey and Aspirations

17:47 Navigating the Sports Industry

20:49 Experiences at HBCUs and Diversity in Sports

28:08 Understanding Different Backgrounds in Athletics

33:08 The Impact of NIL on College Sports

40:27 Career Development for Student Athletes

45:56 The Reality of Division I Aspirations

54:21 Advice for Law Students and Young Professionals

Antoine McClain has built his career around developing athletes and guiding them through the transitions that shape their futures. His foundation started at Clemson University, where he played major college football before advancing to the professional level with stops that included Baltimore, Oakland, Buffalo, and Arizona — earning a Super Bowl ring along the way. That experience gave him a clear, lived understanding of what athletes truly face during and after the game. When his playing career wrapped, Antoine stepped straight into athlete support. He began at the NFL Office in Player Engagement, working with athletes on education, career development, and transition planning. He then served in key roles at Clemson, Tennessee, and UNC Charlotte, leading career relations, alumni engagement, and player development. Across each program, his focus was helping athletes build identity, confidence, and long-term readiness. Today, Antoine is an adjunct professor and program architect at the University of South Carolina, helping design a for-credit Sport Career Transitions course for juniors, seniors, and former athletes. His work blends classroom structure with real-world mentorship and strategy, preparing athletes to step into their next chapter with clarity and ownership. Antoine’s football journey built the foundation. His career work continues to create the impact.

Antoine McClain, athlete development, career transitions, Clemson University, NFL, player engagement, sport career transitions, mentorship, athlete identity, professional football

• Antoine McClain's career is centered on athlete development and transition.
• He played major college football at Clemson University.
• Antoine advanced to the professional level, earning a Super Bowl ring.
• His post-playing career began at the NFL Office in Player Engagement.
• He has held key roles at Clemson, Tennessee, and UNC Charlotte.
• Antoine focuses on helping athletes build identity and confidence.
• He is an adjunct professor at the University of South Carolina.
• Antoine designs a Sport Career Transitions course for athletes.
• His work combines classroom structure with real-world mentorship.
• Antoine's football journey laid the foundation for his career impact.

In this engaging episode of the "Thanks, But No One Asked You" podcast, host Britt Hunter welcomes guest Steve Davis Jr. from Strive Higher After Sports. They dive into a lively discussion about the challenges athletes face when transitioning to life after sports, emphasizing the importance of identity beyond athletics. The conversation covers topics like parental influence, the significance of diverse experiences, and the role of networking in personal growth. Steve shares insights on helping athletes find fulfillment and purpose, while Britt adds her perspective on exposure and cultural experiences.

Keywords

athletes, transition, identity, sports, networking, personal growth, fulfillment, purpose, exposure, cultural experiences

Takeaways

Athletes often struggle with identity after sports.

Parental influence can shape a child's focus on sports.

Diverse experiences are crucial for personal growth.

Networking is key to finding opportunities beyond sports.

Exposure to different cultures enriches personal development.

Athletes should explore interests outside of sports.

Building relationships can open unexpected doors.

Life skills are essential for post-sports success.

Mindset and resilience are vital for overcoming challenges.

Journaling can help athletes reflect and grow.

Website - https://www.strivehigheraftersports.com/

Instagram - https://instagram.com/shed_ave

LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/stevedav/

Strive Higher Journal - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0F5Q83NFV#

Minnesota Athlete Community Sign Up - http://eepurl.com/jqbAZc

Rich Kaplan and I had an incredible conversation about what it really means to bring truth to power. From his years as a Microsoft executive to his current role as a mentor and advocate, Rich has always been someone who leads with honesty, clarity, and heart—and that’s exactly why he’s one of my favorite humans.

We talked about the importance of speaking up, the expectations that come with leadership, and the very real challenges that exist inside corporate culture. Rich shared how AI is reshaping not just the workplace but also how we live and learn. We discussed adaptability, continuous growth, and the need to stay curious—especially as we face things like ageism and rapid technological change.

We also explored the intersection of AI and healthcare, the role of mentorship in shaping careers, and how feedback and self-awareness are non-negotiables for effective leadership.

Rich and I are similar in that we both say it like it is. You’ll hear him repeat one of his core beliefs throughout our conversation: “Bring truth to power.” It’s who he is, and it’s why I’ve been intentional about managing our relationship and making sure we connect every month. Every time we talk, I walk away with something new—whether it’s wisdom, perspective, or one of his hilarious behind-the-scenes stories from Microsoft back in the day.

As a bonus, Rich even shared memories of working with nearly every major Microsoft leader—from their quirks and strengths to the moments that defined the company’s culture.

This conversation is full of leadership lessons, personal growth, and reminders of what it looks like to lead with courage and candor.

#LeadershipDevelopment #MentorshipMatters #BringTruthToPower #CorporateCulture #AIandLeadership #CareerGrowth #AuthenticLeadership #MicrosoftStories #ProfessionalGrowth #ExecutiveMindset #CourageToLead #Adaptability #InnovationAndAI #WomenInLeadership #BeTheException

What happens when a Cape Verdean joins Teach for America and lands in South Dakota—then meets his future wife? You get Jonathan Santos Silva, founder of The Liber Institute, an organization helping rural leaders serve Indigenous students without taking over—by coaching in ways that honor culture and community.

In this conversation, I learned a LOT: from the complex history between Native students and schools to the quiet segregation that still exists today—and yes, the difference between marginalization and erasure. There is a difference, y’all!

Sound Bites:

• “You can’t tell me I can’t be a scientist.”
• “To whom much is given, much is required.”
• “We need true co-conspirators, not allies.”

🎙️ Episode: Building Legacy, Leadership & a Little Laughter

In this episode of Thanks, But No One Asked You, host Britt Hunter sits down with educator, author, and entrepreneur Lindsie Boykin for a hilarious, heartfelt, and unfiltered conversation on what it really takes to lead, build, and stay grounded while chasing big dreams.

From classroom chaos at Success Academy to building a thriving consulting agency, Britt and Lindsie swap stories about teaching, leadership, and the wild ride of entrepreneurship. They get real about navigating burnout, working under pressure, and finding joy in the mess.

You’ll hear laughs, lessons, and legacy-building gems—plus a sneak peek at Lindsie’s new book for Black women in leadership and her upcoming webinar on community and confidence.

Personal LinkedIn:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/lindsieboykin-eds/

Say It Louder, Sis: 31 Affirmations and Reflections for Black Women Who Build:

https://www.lulu.com/shop/lindsie-boykin-eds/say-it-louder-sis/paperback/product-7k8z467.html?page=1&pageSize=4

Leaders Need Systems Links:

Linktree: https://linktr.ee/leadersneedsystems (webinar registration here)

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/leaders-need-systems

LNS IG: @leadersneedsystems

LNS Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LeadersNeedSystems/

💡 Tune in if you’ve ever:

Needed a reminder that leadership is messy—but worth it

Wanted to balance purpose with peace

Missed those old-school TV vibes

Or just love a good laugh with your motivation

🎧 Listen now and join the conversation where humor meets heart and every “lesson learned” comes with a story.

#ThanksButNoOneAskedYou #Podcast #Leadership #Entrepreneurship #BlackWomenInLeadership #Education #Storytelling #LegacyBuilding #BrittHunter #LindsieBoykin

In this episode of Thanks But No One Asked You, host Britt Hunter dives into a bold, funny, and thought-provoking conversation that spans everything from must-read books and wild conspiracy theories to the power of running, surviving Teach For America, and shaking up outdated dress codes in tech. The episode closes with real talk on pivoting from education to entrepreneurship—and the creativity, courage, and chaos that come with it.

• Books often mirror our own journeys and beliefs.
• Conspiracy theories can be both hilarious and revealing.
• Running is more than exercise—it’s therapy and reflection.
• Teach For America tests your grit and reshapes your purpose.
• Great classroom management starts with empathy and flexibility.
• Redefining dress codes can redefine who feels seen in tech.
• Creativity often grows from wanting to own your path.
• Honest feedback fuels growth and better ideas.
• Every pivot brings lessons you didn’t expect.
• Learning never stops—personally or professionally.

Check Out Casey's site: https://dresscode.dev/

Connect with Casey on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/caseyjostine/

In this episode, I sit down with Chris and Michael, co-founders of Talent Lab, to talk about something that goes way beyond tech — community. We dig into their journeys in education, what it means to support underestimated youth, and how real growth starts with trust, feedback, and connection.

We also get honest about some of the buzzwords floating around the edtech space, how they can distract from what actually matters, and why durable skills — like communication, resilience, and adaptability — are the ones that truly shape a student’s future.

This conversation reminded me that education is leadership, and leadership is about people. Whether you’re an educator, coach, or someone who just wants to make an impact, there’s so much here about staying grounded in your why and building environments where people feel seen, heard, and supported.

• Education is about building community and belonging.
• Underestimated youth often display incredible resilience.
• Feedback should be continuous, honest, and constructive.
• Investing in community resources lightens the load on schools.
• Buzzwords can’t replace authentic connection or impact.
• Teachers deserve fair pay and professional respect.
• A culture of coachability is essential for growth.
• Durable skills outlast any single job or tool.
• Non-linear career paths lead to purpose and fulfillment.
• Knowing your why keeps you aligned and grounded.

Check out their work: https://www.linkedin.com/company/talentlabsolutions

In this episode of the Thanks But No One Asked You podcast, host Britt Hunter engages with Edward Jones II in a lively discussion that spans various topics including identity, the influence of sports culture, the impact of instant replay, dietary changes with age, and the importance of building relationships in player development. They delve into the significance of customization in coaching, the roles of coaches and athletic directors, and the lessons learned from experience and growth. The conversation culminates in unsolicited advice for starters and bench players, emphasizing the importance of leadership and responsibility in sports.

https://www.btfprogram.com/about

• Understanding the difference between 'junior' and 'second' in names.
• The influence of celebrity culture on sports and athletes.
• Instant replay can disrupt the flow and integrity of sports.
• Dietary changes are inevitable as we age.
• Building relationships is crucial in player development.
• Customization in coaching is essential for athlete success.
• Coaches have a responsibility to support all athletes, not just the stars.
• Learning from experience is key to personal and professional growth.
• Starters should mentor bench players to prepare them for opportunities.
• Athletic directors must remember the human element in their roles.

You ever stop and wonder what your clothes are actually made of—and how they impact your health, your environment, and even your values?

This week, I sat down with Liz Hershfield, Executive Director at Cotton Council International (CCI) and a sustainability powerhouse with two decades of experience in the fashion industry. She broke everything down—from the health benefits of wearing natural fibers (like cotton) to how sustainability isn’t just a trend—it’s her life’s work.

We talked:

👕 Why natural fibers matter for your body + your planet

🌎 How her global career in fashion led her to the front lines of sustainability

👶 Advice for parents raising conscious kids (spoiler: we don’t have kids, but we have thoughts)

🍽️ Why working in the service industry early in your career absolutely counts

And of course, how her role at COTTON USA™ is shaping the future of sustainable fashion—from U.S. cotton farms to global runways.

Liz is proof that having a non-linear, mission-driven career isn’t just possible—it’s powerful.

📌 Guest Bio:

Liz Hershfield is the Executive Director of Cotton Council International (CCI), where she leads global efforts to promote U.S. cotton and sustainable practices in the textile industry. She’s worked with brands like Madewell, Bonobos, and Old Navy, and founded the ESG consultancy Green-ish. She's also the recipient of the Textile Exchange Ryan Young Climate+ Award and The Lead’s Direct 60 Award.

---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

I bring insights from my experience in sports, education, and corporate leadership to deliver candid advice, humor, and real talk that empowers future changemakers. Through engaging stories and guest conversations, I tackle mentorship, personal growth, and innovation, making leadership bold, relatable, and actionable.