Black Excellence In Sports

Nick & Aisha sit down to reflect and discuss lessons learned from season 1. Season 1 included 17 inspiring guest who shared their powerful testimonies to inspire us and our listeners to pursue GREATNESS. We want to give a special THANK YOU to each guest for sharing with us and each and every one of our listeners who took time to go on this journey with us. Season 1 episodes include: When Failure Turns Into A Billion Dollar Education with C.Y. Young She Believed She Could So She Did... The WORK... with Rekha Patterson With Great Conviction Comes Greater Clarity with Rob Lanier It Starts With Enthusiasm with Shaka Smart Let's Be Humble and Not Need to Be Humbled By anyone Else with Jamion Christian There is So Much More That We Have to Achieve... The WORK is Everything... with Wendale Farrow Everything Else Works Out When You Honor God's Priorities with Jayson Gee Fail Forward Relentlessly To Get It Done Your Way with Tarrell Robinson Influence the Nation By Being Authentically Yourself with Dr. KiKi Baker Barnes Create Your Own Luck Using Your God Given Ability & An Insatiable Work Ethic with Dave Leitao Unlock Your Self Confidence and Make Trusting God Your Biggest Accomplishment with Mike Boynton The Best Kept Secret in Your Athletic Department: How to Value the Human Over the Athlete and Leave a Legacy in the Hearts of Others with Tiffany Smith Hayden You May Have To Lose it All, Just So You Can Show Others That You Can Have it All! How to Make Adversity Your Advantage with Adell Harris Embrace Your Unique Journey & Keep Planting Seeds. A Counterintuitive Approach to Becoming a Championship Coach with Coach Britney Anderson MPACT OVER INCOME | How to Create Living Trophies & Impact Lives Through The Game of Basketball with Kevin Sutton The Art Of Story Telling: How to Turn Pain into Purpose by Uplifting others and Amplifying Voices with Rob Knox It's Time To Unlearn What You Know About Success & Question Everything to Unlock Your Potential and Leave A Legacy with Joi Walker We are JUST getting started! Get ready for what is to come in season 2.

We have placed Joi Walker on the throne as she joins us to share her brilliant perspective on her life and how she helps the next generation become successful. She shares her life testimony from transitioning from athlete to professional to coach to administrator and now full-time entrepreneur, author, podcast host and thought leader. You will be blown away by her perspective as she dives into her story discussing how landing her dream job was not enough for her to maximize her potential. This will be an uncomfortable conversation for many we share the truth about what she experienced after her college basketball career came to an end and how she relentlessly dove into personal development and entrepreneurship. Joi challenges us to question everything… to unlearn everything that we have been taught about how to achieve success. As a full-time entrepreneur, Joi is on a mission to demystify self-employment and empower more African Americans to become their own boss. In a short amount of time, she climbed the ranks as a college coach and administrator to come to the realization that she had more to give and now is in pursuit to empower others to realize the same thing. While entrepreneurship may not be for everyone, Joi challenges us to think bigger and expand our prospective about what it really means to leave a legacy and be more to our student athletes. In this conversation you will learn: How to bounce back from adversity and empower yourself to pursue greatness.  The harsh reality what former athletes experience after they transition into the real world.  How to challenge yourself to be more than coaches or employees.  What coaches can do to prepare and empower student-athletes to succeed after athletics.  How to empathize with your athletes and challenge them to be more.  How to being thinking differently about economic empowerment. Insight on the experience of post graduate depression of athletes. Please write a review and let us know what you took away from this episode. We hope that the lessons in this conversation inspire you to continue on your journey to greatness.   More on Joi Walker and how to connect: Twitter | https://www.joiwalker.com/ (https://www.joiwalker.com) Buy Joi’s Book | http://thesweetspotbook.org/ (http://thesweetspotbook.org) Dear Former Student Athlete | https://www.joiwalker.com/dear-former-athlete (https://www.joiwalker.com/dear-former-athlete) Sets For Life Podcast | https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sets-for-life/id1384766710 (https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/sets-for-life/id1384766710)

We have placed Rob Knox on the throne as he joins us to share his life testimony and how he has navigated his career telling the incredible stories of the athletes you love from high school students to legends like Kobe Bryant, Allen Iverson, Dawn Staley and Lisa Leslie.  Rob, an award-winning & industry leader in strategic athletic communications, is currently the Associate Athletic Director for Strategic Communications at UNC Greensboro. He is a one of a kind talent and has had a lot of success, however in our conversation we dive deep into the mindset of the incredible story teller whose purpose is to uplift others. Along with his experience in strategic communications, he has an expansive career in leadership. He has held roles such as President of the College Sports Information Directors Association of America (CoSIDA), which made him the third ethnic minority and second African-American president in the organization's history.  Although Rob is the one telling the stories behind the scenes, we wanted to make it known that his story and his talents are just as, if not more significant than the stories of the people that he covers. He has had to overcome adversity, made come backs after personal and professional set backs, and put forward a relentless work ethic to continue to be at the top of his game. Ultimately, Rob is dedicated to serve and care for others by supporting, encouraging and amplifying their voices.  In this conversation you will learn:  How to turn pain into purpose How professional growth is a direct correlation of personal growth.  The importance of using your platform to uplift others.  How to build trust by supporting and encouraging others.  That the secrets of story-telling is caring about other.  How having a relentless worth ethic is required in every field of work.  How to compartmentalize personal passions and professional services to your organization. The importance of having a strong tribe around you that lift you and help you gain confidence.  SO.. SO.. SO MUCH MORE.  Please write a review and let us know what you took away from this episode. We hope that the lessons in this conversation inspire you to continue on your journey to greatness.  More on Rob Knox and how to connect:  UNCG Profile: https://uncgspartans.com/staff-directory/rob-knox/228 (https://uncgspartans.com/staff-directory/rob-knox/228) https://towsontigers.com/news/2018/6/29/general-knox-named-cosidas-64th-president.aspx (https://towsontigers.com/news/2018/6/29/general-knox-named-cosidas-64th-president.aspx) Twitter: @KnoxRob1 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/knoxrob/ (https://www.linkedin.com/in/knoxrob/)   This podcast is hosted by: Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone, just two driven young professionals thirsty for knowledge and wisdom. Follow us on Twitter and IG @_YourExcellence

We have placed Kevin Sutton on the throne as he joins us to share his life testimony of how he has navigated his career with servant leadership, humility and faith. At an early age Coach Sutton was destined to be a successful basketball coach, getting an early start as a student assistant and coaching high school along with being mentored legends such as George Raveling. He has spent time at Pitt, Georgetown, George Washington, James Madison and Old Dominion. Sutton also has more than 20 years of coaching experience at every level of basketball camps and clinics, including the Nike Hoops Jamboree, Nike All-American Camp, Michael Jordan Flight School and the LeBron James Skills Academy, among others. His list of accomplishments as a basketball coach go on and on however in this power conversation we uncover everything beyond that. In this conversation we explore the difficulties you have to endure in such a competitive profession and how to stay true to yourself and rooted in your values even if it means comprising what may seem like a better opportunity.  In this conversation you will learn:  How to stay resilient after being knocked down.  The power of vulnerability and staying true to yourself.  We know that in this profession or in any competitive environment ego can easily get you knocked off track. The importance of keeping faith first even when it is easy to get off track.  Please write a review and let us know what you took away from this episode. We hope that the lessons in this conversation inspire you to continue on your journey to greatness.  More on Kevin Sutton and how to connect:  Rhode Island Coaching Profile: https://gorhody.com/sports/mens-basketball (https://gorhody.com/sports/mens-basketball) https://www.kevinsuttonbasketball.com (https://www.kevinsuttonbasketball.com) https://suttonslivingtrophies.com (https://suttonslivingtrophies.com)i Twitter & IG: @CoachSutton This podcast is hosted by: Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone, just two driven young professionals thirsty for knowledge and wisdom. Follow us on Twitter and IG @_YourExcellence

We have placed Britney Anderson on the throne, as she joins us to share her life testimony of how she continues to do to navigate a successful college coaching career. In this conversation we discovered that because her unique approach of following her purpose and embracing her journey one step at a time is what has led her to a life beyond her dreams. She is currently the assistant women’s basketball coach at Stanford with Tara Vanderveer, who is the All-time winningest coach in women’s college basketball.  Even though Britney has had tremendous success in the college coaching profession, being a college coach was last thing she wanted to do. She began her career at Radford, moving on to VA Tech and now a 2021 PAC-12 Championship Assistant Coach. On the surface, Coach Anderson’s path looks seamless but in this conversation we discover the mindset of being grounded, patient and embracing your journey will lead you success.  In this conversation you will learn:  How to use every experience as a learning lesson The importance of leaning on your mentors in tough times.  The power of believing in yourself and being grounded in your faith, beliefs and values.  How to be vulnerable enough to connect with others without losing yourself in the process.  How to remain confident in your own unique path, despite of what others think.  The importance of learning to be a professional first, no matter the circumstance.  Please write a review and let us know what you took away from this episode. We hope that the lessons in this conversation inspire you to continue on your journey to greatness.  More on Britney Anderson and how to connect:  Stanford Coaching Profile: https://gostanford.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/britney-anderson/3871 (https://gostanford.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/britney-anderson/3871) Twitter & IG: @BritneyA25 This podcast is hosted by: Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone, just two driven young professionals thirsty for knowledge and wisdom. Follow us on Twitter and IG @_YourExcellence

We have placed Adell Harris on the throne as she joins us to share her life testimony of what he has done and continues to do to navigate her way to self actualization. Adell is currently the Cheif of Staff for Vanderbilt Men’s Basketball where she utilizes the knowledge that she obtained in her early coaching career to help elevate the Vanderbilt Men’s Basketball coaching staff led by Jerry Stackhouse. Adell began her coaching career early which led to success and some failures personally and professionally. In this transparent conversation, we unpack how she has become a master of overcoming any adversity that she may face to learn lessons and set the example for others. We discuss how you have the personal power to rewrite your story whenever you make the decision to do so. Success for Adell is being an inspiration to others and impacting as many people as possible.  In this conversation you will learn:  How to make adversity your advantage and that you never know what someone may be going through.  How personal development can accelerate your career and help you bounce back from failure quickly. What it truly means to identify your gift and walk in your unique purpose.  How to take responsibility, accept your pain and learn from your mistakes.  What men can do to empower women so everyone can reach their goals.  and much more. Please write a review and let us know what you took away from this episode. We hope that the lessons in this conversation inspire you to continue on your journey to greatness.  More on Adell Harris:  Vanderbilt Men’s Basketball Profile: https://gobearcats.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/jayson-gee/1709 (https://vucommodores.com/staff/adell-harris/) Twitter & IG: @RTL_AdellHarris  Order her book and check out her personal development company: https://rtladell.co (https://rtladell.co)m This podcast is hosted by: Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone, just two driven young professionals thirsty for knowledge and wisdom. Follow us on Twitter and IG @_YourExcellence

We have placed Tiffany Smith Hayden on the throne as she joins us to share her life’s testimony and her successful career in college athletics. At the time of the interview she was entering into her 11th year as an academic counselor at the University of Kentucky. After earning a promotion, she is currently the Assistant Athletics Director for Diversity, Equity and Inclusion. Regardless of her title, Tiffany is committed to developing students holistically. Success for her is impacting lives and showing how much she cares about others. She already has a lasting legacy in the hearts of her students from the relationships that she has built and being there for them as people first. During this interview, she reminds us of how hard our ancestors fought for the opportunities we have today and that we must continue that fight, which may last a lifetime.  In this conversation you will learn:  The importance of being transparent and vulnerable when leading today’s students. How to create work life boundaries that will allow you to stay motivated to serve.  What it really means to care about the student athlete as a whole person and not just an athlete.  The importance of seeking out mentorship and asking great questions as a young professional.  The importance of voter education and civic engagement. The importance of mental health and paying attention to your students.  How to value the human over the athlete.  We hope that the lessons in this conversation inspire you to continue on your journey to greatness. Please write a review and let us know what you took away from this episode.  More on Tiffany Smith Hayden:  University of Kentucky Profile: https://ukathletics.com/staff-directory/tiffany-hayden/58 (https://ukathletics.com/staff-directory/tiffany-hayden/58) Twitter: @Tiff_Hayden  IG: @HumanAthleteProject  This podcast is hosted by: Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone, just two driven young professionals thirsty for knowledge and wisdom.  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @_YourExcellence

We have placed Mike Boynton on the throne as he joins us to share his life testimony of what he has had to overcome to achieve greatness. During this interview Coach Boynton sets the tone for what it means to be unapologetically himself in a profession where it is easy to want to fit a certain stereotype. His level of confidence and authenticity is evident in this interview. As the Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Oklahoma State University, he his priorities as leader of the program which include setting an example as a man, husband and a father and building relationships with his players. In a league with accomplished coaches, Mike Boynton doesn’t let the expectations of others get in the way of living out his mission and keeping his faith first and helping his players understand their value outside of making it to the NBA. He gives us the prospective that we are here for a purpose much bigger than ourselves.  In this conversation you will learn:  How to stay focused on your purpose in the mist of navigating your career.  What it means to trust God’s plan over your plan.  The importance of listening as a leader and operating in humility. How he demonstrates to his young men that compassion and vulnerability are signs of strength.  What happens when you focus on doing your job well vs. fitting the stereotype on the outside.  The importance of mentorship and legacy as he highlights the significant roles of John Thompson, George Raveling and Leonard Hamilton. We hope that the lessons in this conversation inspire you to continue on your journey to greatness. Please write a review or give us a s/o on social media to let us know what you took away from this episode.  More on Mike Boynton:  Oklahoma State Coaching Profile:https://okstate.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/mike-boynton-jr-/1865 (https://okstate.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/mike-boynton-jr-/1865) Twitter: @thacoachmike This podcast is hosted by: Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone, just two driven young professionals thirsty for knowledge and wisdom.  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @_YourExcellence

We have placed Dave Leitao on the throne as he joins us to share his life testimony of what he has had to overcome to achieve greatness. During this interview Coach Leitao reminds us of the importance of hard work, developing professional relationships and being authentic in who you are. Coach Leitao is currently the Head Men’s Basketball Coach at DePaul. Coach Leitao entered into this profession when it was difficult for Black men & women to even get their foot in the door as assistant coaches. He has persevered through difficult times and transitions all while continuing to lean on his value system. Success for Coach Leitao is developing his players as great people, not just great players.    In this conversation you will learn:  How to create value system and persevere through tough times.  The importance of using critical thinking skills to navigate through your profession.  How to be authentic in your professional and personal relationships.  The value of developing your personality and working on interpersonal skills, just as much as any skill. Being consistent with who you are and what you believe in.  We hope that the lessons in this conversation inspire you to continue on your journey to greatness. Please write a review and let us know what you took away from this episode.    More on Dave Leitao:  DePaul Coaching Profile: https://depaulbluedemons.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/dave-leitao/236 (https://depaulbluedemons.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/dave-leitao/236) ABIS Profile: https://www.weareabis.org/leadership-members/dave-leitao (https://www.weareabis.org/leadership-members/dave-leitao) Twitter: @CoachDLeitao This podcast is hosted by: Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone, just two driven young professionals thirsty for knowledge and wisdom.      Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @_YourExcellence

We have placed Dr. KiKi Baker Barnes on the throne as she joins us to share her life testimony navigating an authentic leadership journey. Dr. Barnes has the confidence and positive energy that inspires you in her presence. She is driven to guide others and provide opportunities for other young women to lead in athletics. She is currently the Athletic Director at Dillard University and she has a very long list of impressive accomplishments and positions held. However, success for Dr. Barnes is inspiring others to unlock their potential within.    In this conversation you will learn:  How to confidently show up as your authentic-self.  How to reflect on your life and understand your gifts.  What it takes to be a trailblazer and empower others.  How to own your journey despite of the opinions of others. And so much more.   Please write a review and let us know what you took away from this episode. We hope that the lessons in this conversation inspire you to continue on your journey to greatness.    More on Dr. KiKi Baker Barnes:  Professional Profile: http://www.kikibakerbarnes.com (http://www.kikibakerbarnes.com) Twitter: @KikiBakerBarnes   This podcast is hosted by: Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone, just two driven young professionals thirsty for knowledge and wisdom. Follow us on Twitter and IG @_YourExcellence

We have placed Coach Jayson Gee on the throne as he joins us to share his life testimony of what he has done to navigate his college coaching career by keeping God First. Success for Jayson is serving others, using his faith to inspire and setting as a husband. He is currently the an assistant Men’s Basketball Coach at the University of Cincinnati. He began his career as one of the youngest college coaches at 23. In his career, he has led by being a servant leader and encouraging others in the profession and beyond to have your priorities in order.  In this conversation you will learn:  How to set your life priorities.  What is takes to put family first and take pride in being a great husband. Servant leadership and what it takes to serve at the highest level.  How to confidently allow God to order your steps.  How to balance your faith, career and relationships. and much more. Please write a review and let us know what you took away from this episode. We hope that the lessons in this conversation inspire you to continue on your journey to greatness.  More on Coach Jayson Gee:  Cincinnati Coaching Profile: https://gobearcats.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/jayson-gee/1709 (https://gobearcats.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/jayson-gee/1709) Twitter: @CoachJGee https://geecoaching.com/ (https://geecoaching.com) This podcast is hosted by: Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone, just two driven young professionals thirsty for knowledge and wisdom. Follow us on Twitter and IG @_YourExcellence

We have placed Coach Tarrell Robinson on the throne as he joins us to share his life testimony of what he has done to cultivate a unique leadership journey. Success for Tarrell is following his dreams and leading young women to success. He is currently the Head Women’s Basketball Coach at North Carolina A&T and that is his dream job. He has had tremendous success leading the program to basketball success but he does so much more than coach basketball. Tarrell is a determined, caring, leader who took an interesting career path to leadership. He understood early in his career that to be a great leader, you have to create your own path and be willing to take the responsibility that comes with it.  In this conversation you will learn:  How to have a relentless mentality and still treat others with respect and care.  How to bounce back from failure and continue to pursue your dreams.  What makes the Black College Experience special and unique.  The consequences of trying to force the process and the valuable lessons that come with it. What it really means to be true to yourself and trust your journey. and much more. Please write a review and let us know what you took away from this episode. We hope that the lessons in this conversation inspire you to continue on your journey to greatness.  More on Coach Tarrell Robinson:  North Carolina A&T Coaching Profile: https://ncataggies.com/staff-directory/tarrell-robinson/25 (https://ncataggies.com/staff-directory/tarrell-robinson/25) Twitter: @LadyAggieHC This podcast is hosted by: Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone, just two driven young professionals thirsty for knowledge and wisdom. Follow us on Twitter and IG @_YourExcellence

We have placed Coach Jamion Christian on the throne as he joins us to share his life testimony of what he has had to overcome to get on the path to success. Jamion is a passionate and energetic leader dedicated to bringing the best out in others. He is currently the Head Men’s Basketball Coach at the George Washington University. We tap into his mindset, his leadership style and how he has developed into the impactful leader that he is today.  In this conversation you will learn:  How to use vulnerability to bring the best out of others. How to understand and accept how to navigate through America as a black man.  How you can use humility to allow you to grow. How he uses confidence to give you an edge.  How he challenges his player's mental and emotional make up. and much more. Please write a review and let us know what you took away from this episode. We hope that the lessons in this conversation inspire you to continue on your journey to greatness.  More on Coach Christian:  Coaching Profile: https://calbears.com/staff-directory/wendale-farrow/719 (https://gwsports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/jamion-christian/512) Twitter: @JamionChristian This podcast is hosted by: Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone, just two driven young professionals thirsty for knowledge and wisdom. Follow us on Twitter and IG @_YourExcellence

“The #1 component of any culture is the players.” We have placed Coach Shaka Smart on the throne as he joins us to share his life testimony of what he has had to overcome to get on the path to success. Coach Smart has dedicated his life and career to helping others maximize their potential. He is currently the Head Men’s Basketball Coach at the University of Texas and has had a successful coaching career so far. However, we tap into his mindset, his way of being and his way of thinking that has allowed him to reach his goals.  In this conversation you will learn:  The importance of finding your identity outside of what you do.  How raising your awareness can help you become the best version of yourself.  How having a hunger and a passion for what you do can help you maximize your opportunities.  The importance of defining success on your own and setting big goals.  The impact of mentorship and learning from those who are just a little bit ahead of you.  What it truly means to lower yourself and help others become the best that they can be.  and much more. Please write a review and let us know what you took away from this episode. We hope that the lessons in this conversation inspire you to continue on your journey to greatness.  More on Coach Shaka Smart:  Texas Coaching Profile: https://calbears.com/staff-directory/wendale-farrow/719 (https://texassports.com/sports/mens-basketball/roster/coaches/shaka-smart/1686) Twitter: @HookEmSmart This podcast is hosted by: Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone, just two driven young professionals thirsty for knowledge and wisdom. Follow us on Twitter and IG @_YourExcellence

Overcoming adversity is an understatement so get ready to remove excuses as you listen to this episode. We have placed Coach Wendale on the throne as he joins us to share his life testimony of what he has had to overcome to get on the path to success. As a young professional he has mastered the art of seeking mentors and learning from the people around him to help him be successful. Wendale is currently an Assistant Women’s Basketball Coach at Cal Berkeley and an up and coming star in the coaching profession. He takes pride in playing a role in the lives of young women because of the role the women have played in his life. His selfless approach in his coaching style allows him to play an impactful role in the lives of his players. He reminds us that it is a privilege to serve and our focus should be on how to help others become successful as part of our journey.  In this conversation you will learn:  The power of a growth mindset and affirming a better future.  To use your life’s challenges as the reason to keep going.  What it truly takes to go after your dreams and to never give up. The importance of seeking out mentorship on your path of success.  What it means to him to be rooted in your own faith and believe in yourself. We hope that the lessons in this conversation inspire you to continue on your journey to greatness.  Please write a review and let us know what you took away from this episode.  More on Coach Wendale Farrow Cal Berkley Coaching Profile: https://calbears.com/staff-directory/wendale-farrow/719 (https://calbears.com/staff-directory/wendale-farrow/719) Twitter: @DellyWEN This podcast is hosted by: Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone, just two driven young professionals thirsty for knowledge and wisdom.  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @_YourExcellence

“When things get tough, always believe in yourself, when things are going well, always challenge yourself.” We have placed Coach Rob Lanier on the throne as he joins us to share his life testimony of what he has had to overcome to achieve greatness. Rob Lanier is currently the Head Coach at Georgia State University. Prior to Georgia State he spent the previous 4 years at The University of Tennessee. Rob has accumulated a wealth of knowledge, growth and experience as he started his career very young at the age of 21. He is one the most respected leaders in the college coaching profession. We sit down with him to talk about his path to success in his life, with his family and in his career. In this conversation you will learn:  The power of humility in pursuit of success. The importance of developing clear communication.  The importance of having a role model in your life to help guide your path. Evidence of “someone is always watching" The importance of knowing and accepting who you are before you can be a great leader.  What it means to put your family first and making sure that you tell people that you love them.  REAL MEN RESPECT WOMEN.  We hope that the lessons in this conversation inspire you to continue on your journey to greatness.  Please write a review and let us know what you took away from this episode.  More on Coach Rob Lanier Coaches Matter: https://seminoles.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Florida-State-Coaching-Staff-Should-Take-Major-Bow-After-2019-NBA-Draft.pdf (https://www.coachspeak.net/coaches-matter-by-rob-lanier/) Georgia State Coaching Profile: https://seminoles.com/staff/charlton-c-y-young/ (https://georgiastatesports.com/staff-directory/rob-lanier/9) Twitter: @Icehandler This podcast is hosted by: Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone, just two driven young professionals thirsty for knowledge and wisdom.  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @_YourExcellence

"Sometimes everything has to be as perfect as possible just to have a chance.” We have placed Coach Rekha Patterson on the throne as she joins us to share her journey to becoming a successful Head Coach! Rekha Patterson is the Head Coach at Southeast Missouri State University and in 5 seasons she achieved the goal of leading her team to become conference tournament champions! Her success started early on as she began her career as a graduate assistant coach at Baylor. She has been a part of seven Big 12 Championships and was on the coaching staff of the 40-0 Baylor National Champion. Talk about EXCELLENCE. In this conversation you will learn:  The importance of preparing yourself to be comfortable in uncomfortable situations.  What the benefits of having a player led team and how to instill confidence in your players. The importance of vulnerability in leadership and being a good listener.  The process of building a program from ground up, having faith and staying the course in recruiting. Being comfortable in your own skin and a black person navigating this world.  Please write a review and let us know what you took away from this episode.  More on Coach Rekha Patterson  SEMO coach Rekha Patterson delivers powerful message on injustice: https://www.newsbreak.com/news/1576257268608/semo-coach-rekha-patterson-delivers-powerful-message-on-injustice (https://www.newsbreak.com/news/1576257268608/semo-coach-rekha-patterson-delivers-powerful-message-on-injustice) SEMO Coaching Profile: https://gosoutheast.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/rekha-patterson/2404 (https://gosoutheast.com/sports/womens-basketball/roster/coaches/rekha-patterson/2404) Twitter: @RehkaPatterson This podcast is hosted by: Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone, just two driven young professionals thirsty for knowledge and wisdom.  Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @_YourExcellence

“No one makes it to the promise land by themselves.” We have placed Coach Charlton “C.Y.” Young on the throne as he joins us to share his life testimony of what he has had to overcome to achieve greatness. Coach C.Y. is currently an Assistant Men’s Basketball Coach at Florida State University and has proven himself to be one of the top assistant coaches in the country. We sit down with him to talk about the path to success in his life and in his career. In this conversation you will learn:  The importance of seeking out mentorship on your path of success.  The power of self-awareness believing in yourself. Being a CEO vs. Being a Basketball Coach Mistakes that he made as a young leader early in his career.  The importance of humility, maturity and emotional intelligence.  The importance of loyalty and finishing what you start! What it really means to stand up for social injustices and come together as a nation.  We hope that the lessons in this conversation inspire you to continue on your journey to greatness.    Please write a review and let us know what you took away from this episode.    More on Coach C.Y. Young Florida State Coaches Should Take A Bow After 2019 NBA Draft: https://seminoles.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Florida-State-Coaching-Staff-Should-Take-Major-Bow-After-2019-NBA-Draft.pdf (https://seminoles.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/06/Florida-State-Coaching-Staff-Should-Take-Major-Bow-After-2019-NBA-Draft.pdf) Florida State Coaching Profile: https://seminoles.com/staff/charlton-c-y-young/ (https://seminoles.com/staff/charlton-c-y-young/) Twitter: @CoachSEEWHY12 This podcast is hosted by: Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone, just two driven young professionals thirsty for knowledge and wisdom.      Follow us on Twitter & Instagram: @_YourExcellence

Rising Stars Presents hosts Aisha Foy and Nick Lagroone: The Black Excellence In Sports Podcast is a platform to highlight excellence and achievements of Black leaders in sports. We interview those who we believe have demonstrated Black Excellence in their life and their career to inspire other men and women to unlock their greatness. Your mic and crown are ready for you!