The Sports Backdrop

What happens when an NBA All-Star hangs up his jersey? In this episode of The Sports Backdrop, Eric connects with Gordon Hayward, a former player for the Utah Jazz, Boston Celtics, Charlotte Hornets, and Oklahoma City Thunder. Now an entrepreneur and family man, Gordon shares his perspective on what it means to move on from professional sports and enter a new chapter of life, including his latest ventures like FORM, a basketball training tool that’s changing how young players learn to shoot.

Gordon keeps it real about life after basketball, staying in shape, youth sports, the college game, mental health, and entrepreneurship. Gordon Hayward is such a genuine and relatable guest. He speaks his mind, shares great insights, and has a clear passion for helping the next generation improve their shot. It was a privilege to have him on the podcast. Thank you, Gordon, for your time, inspiration, and stories.

What Gordon Hayward and I Discuss:

Connect with Gordon Hayward & FORM:

Connect with Eric:

Chapters in the Gordon Hayward Podcast:

This show is made possible by:

KazCM: A content production company that aims to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more here: https://kazcm.com/

Related content to ‘Gordon Hayward | NBA Stories, FORM Basketball, and Youth Sports Today’:

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More about Gordon Hayward, NBA All-Star, FORM Co-founder:

Gordon Hayward was an NBA All-Star forward known for his smooth shooting, high basketball IQ, and ability to contribute across multiple areas of the game. After leading Butler University to an unexpected NCAA Championship appearance in 2010, he was drafted ninth overall by the Utah Jazz, where he quickly became a key player. Gordon has enjoyed a successful career with the Jazz, Boston Celtics, and, most recently, the Charlotte Hornets. His resilience and consistent on-court production earned him a reputation as a dependable and adaptable player.

Off the court, Hayward has cultivated a variety of passions and pursuits. A devoted family man, he enjoys spending quality time with his wife, Robyn, and their four children.

FORM: This patented basketball shooting aid is designed specifically to guide proper shooting form. Its unique shape provides built-in guides to help players of all ages and skill levels shape their shot and build muscle memory for more accuracy and consistency on the court.

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Featured Guest: Robert “Bob” Steinfeld, Emmy Award-Winning Sports Producer, Author of 3…2…1…We’re On the Air

“The people that make it to the top respect the work of those around them.” – Bob Steinfeld

“You’ve gotta dominate where you can.” — Tim Duncan to Bob Steinfeld

“Every game has a story.” – Bob Steinfeld

Go behind the camera with Bob Steinfeld, a 10-time Emmy-winning sports producer whose career has spanned four decades of unforgettable sports moments. Bob’s journey has brought countless iconic moments to life, from directing the San Antonio Spurs’ championship runs and covering the Dream Team in Barcelona to producing World Cup soccer at the Cotton Bowl. Working alongside broadcasting legends like Bob Costas, Jim Nantz, Joel Klatt, and Verne Lundquist, Bob’s dedication to capturing the magic of sports has left an indelible mark on the industry.

In this episode of The Sports Backdrop, we discuss:

This episode offers a unique look into the high-stakes world of sports production through the eyes of a true legend, capturing how every game—whether NBA Finals or Little League—is an unforgettable story waiting to be told.

This show is made possible by:

KazCM: A content production company that aims to create space where businesses can build assets and drive revenue through writing and talking. Learn more here: https://kazcm.com/

QuietLoud Studios: A podcast network where reflection and voice come together. Learn more here: https://quietloudstudios.com/

Related content to Behind the Scenes of Iconic Sports Moments with Legendary Producer Bob Steinfeld:

Connect with Bob Steinfeld:

Get in touch with Eric Kasimov:

Credits:

More about Bob Steinfeld and his book “3…2…1… We’re On the Air”:

Robert Steinfeld has produced and directed network sports television for five decades, covering MLB, NBA, WNBA, college basketball and football, NCAA Championships, World Cup Soccer, Cotton Bowl Classics and summer Olympics. He’s Executive Producer of the WNBA Dallas Wings. His innovated work has earned him 10 Sports Emmy Awards plus five more nominations, a national Cable Ace Award nomination, plus additional industry accolades.

Thoughts on his book from some of the biggest names in sports television broadcasting:

“Bob’s memoir is a game-changer for anybody who craves tales about the athletes and sports he’s covered.” —Nancy Lieberman, Naismith Basketball Hall of Famer

“An authentic look at how it all comes together. ” —Jim Nantz, CBS Sports

“Stories of decades in sports TV.” —Bob Costas, Broadcaster for NBC Sports from 1980 to 2019

“I stepped into the booth for my first college football broadcast, having no idea what I was doing.  Thankfully, the voice in my headset was ‘The Doctor’ himself, Bob Steinfeld! Bob’s level of preparation and leadership is top-notch and continues to drive me to this day.  Reading 3…2…1… We’re On The Air! brought me back to that day with the rush of excitement I felt then. This peek behind the production curtain is a must for anyone that enjoys watching their favorite sports on TV.” —Joel Klatt, Fox Sports, lead college football analyst

(source: robertsteinfeld.com)

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In this episode of Athlete Mindset, host Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW, CMPC, welcomes Dr. Kensa Gunter, a licensed psychologist, certified mental performance consultant, and Director of NBA and WNBA Mind Health. Dr. Gunter opens up about her journey in sports psychology, the evolution of mental health in professional sports, and her mission to promote well-being for athletes, teams, and coaches. Together, they explore the power of resilience, leadership, and culture change in sports psychology, and discuss how mental health and performance are interwoven in today’s sports landscape.

Dr. Gunter highlights how the NBA & WNBA Mind Health program is working to shift the conversation around mental health from stigmatization to normalization, ensuring that athletes are supported holistically on and off the court. She also shares insights into injury recovery, mental resilience, and the critical role of leadership in fostering a culture of well-being within teams.

Key Takeaways from Dr. Kensa Gunter:

Resources Mentioned:

Credits: Athlete Mindset is part of the SportsE Media platform.

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By supporting the Athlete Mindset community, you will contribute directly to the mental health of athletes. With your amplification, we can ensure more voices are heard and more individuals are impacted. Thank You for making a difference!

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In this powerful episode of Athlete Mindset, “Who You Are, Not What You Do,” host Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW, CMPC, welcomes Kelsey O’Connor, a motivational speaker, former D1 student-athlete, and recent North Carolina State University social work graduate. Kelsey shares her inspiring journey of resilience and self-discovery following a career-ending head injury. Her story of overcoming adversity and redefining her identity resonated with millions when her commencement speech went viral, amassing over 40 million views across TikTok and many social media platforms.

This is the Athlete Mindset podcast, which explores mental health in sports. It is presented and produced by SportsE Media as part of the podcast network.

‘Who You Are, Not What You Do with Kelsey O’Connor’ Highlights:

About Kelsey O’Connor: Kelsey O’Connor is a motivational speaker and recent social work graduate from North Carolina State University. After recovering from a head injury that ended her D1 softball career, Kelsey found a new purpose in sharing her story and perspective with others. Her commencement speech, which went viral with over 40 million views, touched on themes of identity, resilience, and personal growth. Kelsey now travels the country, speaking to organizations and teams about building confidence, developing a strong identity, and improving team culture.

Kelsey’s mission: To help individuals and teams boost confidence, build strong identities, and improve team culture by sharing her unique perspective on identity and resilience. Through her talks, Kelsey aims to remind people that their worth is not defined by their achievements or titles, but by the qualities that truly matter.

Listen to Kelsey O’Connor’s podcast, Life Beyond Labels

Click Here to contribute to the Athlete Mindset Community.

By supporting the Athlete Mindset community, you will contribute directly to the mental health of athletes. With your amplification, we can ensure more voices are heard and more individuals are impacted. Thank You for making a difference!

Athlete Mindset is part of the podcast network SportsE Media

Athlete Mindset is also a part of QuietLoud Studios

Athlete Mindset is produced by the team at KazCM

Connect with the guest, host, and podcast production team:

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This is the Sports Betting Uncovered podcast series. Part of The Sports Backdrop podcast on SportsE Media.

Welcome to the high-stakes world of sports betting as we explore its explosive growth and the shadowy underbelly of addiction. Our fearless podcast host, Chaz, uncovers the journey from prohibition to proliferation and the price we’re paying for this form of entertainment.

In this eye-opening episode, we trace the meteoric rise of sports betting in America and confront the growing crisis of gambling addiction. From Supreme Court decisions to Super Bowl wagers, discover how betting has become as much a part of sports as the games themselves – and the toll it’s taking on individuals and society. This is sports betting uncovered.

Topics in ‘Sports Betting Uncovered: Explosive Growth, Advertising, and Addiction’

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Disclaimer:  This episode features AI-generated voices created using premium licensed technology. These voices do not represent actual individuals. The content has been dramatized to provide an engaging and informative listening experience while addressing serious topics. This podcast is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as professional advice.

Transcript:

“Welcome to ‘Sports Betting Uncovered,’ where we explore the world of sports betting, its intricacies, stories, and its impacts on our lives. I’m your host, Chaz, and today we’re uncovering a serious topic that’s been rising alongside the popularity of sports betting: addiction.” 

“Six years ago, sports betting was illegal under federal law. Today, it’s everywhere. From TV ads to billboards, the rapid growth of sports betting is undeniable. But with this growth comes a significant issue: sports betting addiction. In this episode, we’ll look into the rise of sports betting, the factors contributing to its popularity, and the dark side of addiction many face.”  

“To truly understand the rise of sports betting addiction, we need to take a step back and look at the history of sports betting in the United States. Before the landmark 2018 Supreme Court decision, sports betting was largely confined to the shadows.” 

“Sports betting in the U.S. has a long and storied history. It dates back to the early 19th century when horse racing was a major pastime. Betting on horse races became popular; it wasn’t long before other sports followed suit. However, the industry faced significant challenges. In 1919, the infamous Black Sox Scandal cast a dark shadow over sports betting, where eight Chicago White Sox players were accused of intentionally losing the World Series in exchange for money from gamblers.” 

“In response to such scandals, the government began to crack down on sports betting. The most significant of these efforts came in 1961 with the Federal Wire Act, which aimed to curb organized crime by banning all forms of interstate wagering on sports. This law effectively drove sports betting underground, where it remained for several decades.” 

“Despite these restrictions, sports betting never truly disappeared. The appetite for wagering on sports was too strong. Throughout the 20th century, illegal bookmaking operations thrived, and Las Vegas emerged as a hub for legal sports betting thanks to Nevada’s unique laws. Yet, for most Americans, betting on sports was an illicit activity, whispered about in backrooms and conducted with bookies.” 

“The push for legalization began to gain momentum in the early 2000s. Advocates argued that legalizing sports betting would bring it out of the shadows, regulate the industry, and generate significant tax revenue. One of the major milestones in this effort was the formation of the American Gaming Association (AGA) in 1994. The AGA played a crucial role in advocating for the legalization of sports betting and educating the public and lawmakers about its benefits.” 

Host: “As said by AGA Representative Bill Miller, President and CEO of the American Gaming Association:” 

“Americans love sports, and they love to bet on sports. The question has always been whether they had a legal option or not. Now that states have legalized sports betting, we’ve seen incredible growth in the handle, transitioning betting from the illegal market into the safe, regulated marketplace” (source link: https://www.americangaming.org/policies/illegal-gambling/)

“A key figure in the push for legalization was former New Jersey Governor Chris Christie. In 2011, Christie signed a bill into law that would allow sports betting at New Jersey’s casinos and racetracks. However, this law faced immediate challenges from major sports leagues and the federal government, citing the Professional and Amateur Sports Protection Act (PASPA) of 1992, which prohibited sports betting in most states.” 

“The battle culminated in a historic Supreme Court case, Murphy v. NCAA, in 2018. The Court ruled in favor of New Jersey, striking down PASPA and allowing states to legalize sports betting at their discretion. This decision was a turning point, opening the doors for a nationwide sports betting industry.” 

“Today, over 30 states have legalized sports betting, with more considering legislation. The landscape of sports betting in the U.S. has been transformed, leading to economic opportunities and significant challenges, including the rise of sports betting addiction.” 

“Let’s start with some context. In 2018, the Supreme Court lifted the federal ban on sports betting. This decision opened the floodgates, allowing states to legalize betting and companies to develop and market betting apps. The result? A surge in legal wagers and industry revenue.” 

“In 2018, the annual commercial sports betting revenue in the U.S. was relatively modest. Fast forward to 2023, and it has surged over 12-fold, exceeding $11 billion. High-profile events like March Madness and the Super Bowl have significantly influenced this growth. For example, during March Madness in 2024 alone, Americans legally wagered nearly $3 billion.” 

“Advertising has been another major driver. Studies show that NBA and NHL fans are exposed to three gambling ads per minute during broadcasts. This aggressive marketing strategy has normalized and integrated sports betting into our culture.” 

“The American Gaming Association says that sports betting ads guide people from illegal to legal markets, which raises tax revenue for governments and helps consumers avoid fraud” (source: https://www.nytimes.com/2024/04/05/briefing/the-rise-of-sports-betting.html).

“But this rapid growth and normalization come with a dark side. Sports betting addiction, also known as gambling disorder, is a condition where individuals develop a pathological obsession and compulsion to bet on sports outcomes. This addiction can significantly impair daily life, leading to financial problems, relationship issues, and mental health challenges.” 

“The Mayo Clinic describes gambling disorder as persistent and recurrent problematic gambling behavior that leads to clinically significant impairment or distress. Symptoms include preoccupation with gambling, chasing losses, gambling when distressed, and jeopardizing significant relationships.” 

Family Addiction Specialist, Dr. Timothy W. Fong, Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at UCLA says:

“Like addictive drugs such as cocaine, heroin, nicotine and alcohol, gambling activates the brain’s reward system, which is powered by dopamine. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter inside the brain that reinforces sensations of pleasure and connects those sensations to certain behaviors or actions” (source: https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/gambling-addiction-can-cause-psychological-physiological-health-challenges)

“The consequences can be severe. Financial ruin, relationship strain, mental health issues such as anxiety and depression, and even suicidal ideation are common among problem gamblers. In extreme cases, the social costs of gambling addiction can parallel those seen in the opioid crisis.” 

“It’s essential to recognize the signs early and seek help if needed. If you or someone you know is struggling with gambling addiction, there are resources available. Awareness and early intervention can make a significant difference.” 

“While the rapid growth of sports betting has brought economic opportunities, it has also led to significant societal challenges. Let’s explore the broader social implications of sports betting addiction and what the research tells us about its economic and social costs.” 

“Sports betting addiction doesn’t just affect individuals; it has a ripple effect that impacts families, communities, and even entire economies. One of the most immediate consequences is financial distress. Problem gamblers often face severe financial problems, which can lead to loss of savings, mounting debts, and even bankruptcy. These financial issues don’t just stay with the individual; they strain relationships and can lead to domestic conflicts and family breakdowns.”  

Host: “As Financial Expert, Robert Strezo of Center for Public Justice says:” 

“As sportsbooks create direct digital appeals to college-aged youth, more and more young people, especially young men, find themselves with gambling addictions, developed through sports betting with friends, and debt that follows them their whole lives. The burden of college debt is compounded by gambling debts and the costs of addiction therapy” (source: Center for Public Justice). 

“Beyond the personal financial impacts, there are broader economic costs to consider. According to a study by the National Council on Problem Gambling, the social costs of gambling addiction in the U.S. are estimated to be around $7 billion annually. This includes costs related to job loss, bankruptcy, and legal fees, as well as costs associated with treating gambling addiction.” 

“Employment issues are another significant consequence. Problem gamblers often experience job loss due to decreased productivity, absenteeism, and in some cases, theft or embezzlement to fund their gambling habits. This not only affects the individual’s livelihood but also the overall productivity and profitability of businesses.” 

“Gambling addiction can severely impact workplace performance. Employees who are struggling with addiction may exhibit decreased focus, increased absenteeism, and higher levels of stress, all of which can disrupt the workplace environment and reduce overall productivity” (sources: https://atlanticbehavioralhealth.com/signs-of-gambling-addiction-recognizing-a-gambling-problem/)

“The social implications extend beyond the workplace. Gambling addiction is linked to various mental health issues, including anxiety, depression, and in severe cases, suicidal ideation. The stress and guilt associated with gambling losses can lead to a downward spiral, exacerbating these mental health problems.” 

“A study published in the Journal of Gambling Studies found that individuals with gambling problems are more likely to suffer from mental health disorders and substance abuse issues. This comorbidity makes treatment more complex and recovery more challenging.” 

“Moreover, the strain on public resources is considerable. Governments and communities must allocate significant funds to address the consequences of gambling addiction, from providing treatment programs and support services to handling increased crime rates associated with desperate gamblers seeking quick cash.” 

Public Health Official (Dr. Timothy W. Fong, Clinical Professor of Psychiatry at UCLA):

“The impact of gambling addiction on public health is profound. We see increased demand for mental health services, substance abuse treatment, and social support systems. It’s a multifaceted issue that requires a comprehensive approach to address effectively” (sources: https://www.uclahealth.org/news/article/gambling-addiction-can-cause-psychological-physiological-health-challenges)

“Lastly, the social fabric of communities can be eroded. Trust is broken in families and among friends, and community resources are strained as they try to support those affected by gambling addiction. The normalization of gambling, driven by pervasive advertising, further complicates efforts to mitigate these impacts.” 

“In summary, the rise of sports betting addiction has far-reaching consequences that extend well beyond the individual. It affects families, workplaces, communities, and the economy at large. Understanding these broader social implications is crucial as we continue to navigate the expanding landscape of sports betting.” 

“Before we wrap up, we encourage you to visit the SportsE Media platform or our podcast network for more information and support resources. Let’s work together to raise awareness and provide support for those affected by gambling disorders.” 

“Thank you for listening to ‘Sports Betting Uncovered.’ If you found this episode helpful, please share it with others and tune in next time as we continue to explore the world of sports betting. Stay safe and bet responsibly.” 

Thank you for listening to and reading the transcript for Sports Betting Uncovered: Explosive Growth, Advertising, and Addiction.

—

Content Disclaimer: Our articles and podcasts and this episode titled ‘Sports Betting Uncovered: Explosive Growth, Advertising, and Addiction,’ including any content on sports betting, are for entertainment and informational purposes only and are not intended to promote or endorse betting. If you choose to bet, we urge you to do so responsibly. Help is available for those facing challenges with gambling. Contact the National Problem Gambling Helpline at 1-800-522-4700 or visit ncpgambling.org. North Carolina residents can also find resources at More Than a Game. If you need immediate assistance, call 1-800-GAMBLER. For more details, see our full disclaimer.

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In this episode of Athlete Mindset, host Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW, CMPC, shares space with Angela Lee Pucci, a retired professional MMA fighter, six-time MMA world champion, and founder of Fight Story. Angela Lee opens up about her journey from the world of combat sports to becoming a mental health advocate. She shares her personal experiences with suicide, including her own attempt in 2017 and the loss of her sister, Victoria, by suicide in 2022. The conversation explores the pressures of professional fighting, the importance of mental health awareness in combat sports, and how Fight Story aims to revolutionize the industry by providing support and resources for fighters’ mental and physical well-being.

This is the Athlete Mindset podcast. And it’s all about mental health in sports. It is presented and produced as part of the podcast network by SportsE Media.

“Angela Lee Pucci’s Fight Story | A Mental Health Revolution” Highlights:

About Angela Lee Pucci and Fight Story:

Fight Story is a platform where fighters unite to revolutionize combat sports, inspire hope, and champion a global movement for mental and physical wellness.

Fight Story vision: Our goal is to create a community that empowers one another to embrace the journey. We are starting the conversation. By sharing real stories of overcoming mental health struggles, we shine the light on a topic kept in the dark, and we break down the stigma surrounding mental health. We are here to pioneer the way for athlete guidance, support, advocacy, connection, education and wellness in combat sports. Join us in the fight for a better, kinder, and more loving world.

Click Here to contribute to the Athlete Mindset Community

By supporting the Athlete Mindset community, you will contribute directly to the mental health of athletes. With your amplification, we can ensure more voices are heard and more individuals are impacted. Thank You for making a difference!

Athlete Mindset is part of the podcast network SportsE Media

Athlete Mindset is also a part of QuietLoud Studios

Athlete Mindset is produced by the team at KazCM

Connect with the guest, host, and podcast production team:

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In this episode of Athlete Mindset, Lisa Bonta Sumii sits down with soccer legend Brandi Chastain to explore her journey from youth soccer to international stardom. Brandi discusses the pivotal moments in her career, including her famous penalty kick in the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup, overcoming injuries, and the impact of mentorship and leadership. They also discuss the importance of resilience, celebrating successes, and the evolving role of mental health in sports. Brandi shares valuable insights for young athletes and parents, emphasizing the significance of support, hard work, and self-belief.

“Find Your Yes!”

Click here to Contribute to the Athlete Mindset Community

By supporting the Athlete Mindset community, you will contribute directly to the mental health of athletes. With your amplification, we can ensure more voices are heard and more individuals are impacted. Thank You for making a difference!

Brandi is a retired American soccer player. She is a two-time FIFA Women’s World Cup champion and a two-time Olympic gold medalist. She is also a coach and a sports broadcaster. She played for the US Women’s National Team from 1988 to 2004. In her 192 caps on the team, she scored 30 goals as a defender and midfielder. She scored a World Cup-winning penalty shootout goal against China in the 1999 FIFA Women’s World Cup final.

Brandi played professionally for Shiroki FC in the Japan Women’s Football League, the San Jose CyberRays of the Women’s United Soccer Association, FC Gold Pride of Women’s Professional Soccer, and California Storm of Women’s Premier Soccer League.

Brandi was named to the USWNT All-Time Best XI in 2013. And in March 2017, Brandi was inducted into the National Soccer Hall of Fame. In 2018 she was inducted into the Bay Area Sports Hall of Fame. (source, Wikipedia)

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In this episode of The Sports Backdrop, we discuss youth sports mental health dynamics, focusing on how youth sports parents impact their children’s mental health. We discuss the pressures placed on young athletes, the role of parents and coaches, and the significance of emotional intelligence and resilience in sports.

This episode features Lisa Bonta Sumii, LCSW. Lisa is the CEO & Founder of AthMindset. She works with elite youth athletes, collegiate student-athletes, Olympians, professional athletes, coaches, and teams. She is the Mental Performance Coach for the Oakland Roots Sports Club, a men’s professional soccer team in the USL. Lisa is listed in the US Olympic & Paralympic Committee’s Mental Health Registry, the NFL Player Association’s Clinician Directory, and the Major League Rugby Mental Health and Wellness Directory. 

“Youth Sports Mental Health | Parents, Coaches, and Resiliences” topics:

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This is an audible-style blog post on the rise of soccer in the United States. Welcome to the Sports Backdrop podcast. This episode focuses on the factors propelling soccer’s growing popularity in the US especially with the World Cup coming to North America in 2026!

Efficient Game Duration:

Accessibility and Affordability:

International Appeal:

Growing Media Coverage:

CONNECT:

Host: Eric Kasimov: X | LinkedIn

SportsE Media: website | X | Instagram | TikTok

Related content to “Audible Style | Soccer Will Be a Top 3 Sport in the US Thanks to the 2026 World Cup”: Audible Style | The Moment Matters: Embracing the Now in Sports | Audible Style | Amazon Prime Regional Sports Streaming

This episode was produced by the team at KazCM

Main point: Soccer is the biggest sport in the world. We know that. However, soccer in the US typically falls outside of the top four sports: football, basketball, baseball, and hockey. That is changing fast. Add in the World Cup in 2026 and we have a recipe for soccer becoming a top 3 sport in the US. It will go: football, basketball, soccer…wait for it…

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The Ohio State University impact — it is significant. We’re not talking about endowments or alumni, although they play a part. We’re talking about something way bigger—a shared passion. In this episode of The Sports Backdrop, Jerald Kasimov tells the story of his Ohio State roots and how we all have shared passions and excitement in something.

Jerry graduated from Ohio State’s college and dental school. He is a retired dentist, entrepreneur, and now a two-time author (Altered State of Affairs and Reach for the Stars). He is also a husband, father, and grandfather, all of whom make up his Buckeye Eleven. Jerald shares how Ohio State is more than just a school or football program—it’s a shared passion.

Now, for all you non-Buckeyes, this applies to you, too. We’re sure you are excited about something! And perhaps that excitement is shared by another or many others. That’s what this episode is about. The Buckeyes are simply a backdrop to help tell the bigger story. If anything, as the author says, “GET EXCITED!”

Buy Jerald’s books: Altered State of Affairs | Reach for the Stars

Connect with Jerald: author website | X

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Wrapping up: want to create impactful content: KazCM

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