https://simplecast.com The Victory Degree The show for athletes, creators, and builders chasing their own version of victory. Hosted by Nik Atanackovic, The Victory Degree Podcast is built around a simple idea: success leaves clues, and the best lessons come from the people who have lived the journey. Nik sits down with elite athletes, entrepreneurs, and high performers to unpack the moments that shaped them. These conversations go beyond highlight reels and surface-level motivation, diving into the mindset shifts, failures, and decisions that lead to real success. Each episode explores the stories, habits, and mental frameworks behind great performance—on the field, in business, and in life. If you want deeper conversations about what it actually takes to win, The Victory Degree Podcast gives you a front-row seat to the people living it. en Fri, 27 Mar 2026 19:28:22 +0000 Fri, 27 Mar 2026 19:28:33 +0000 https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com The Victory Degree https://image.simplecastcdn.com/images/61e6bd4f-cf8b-4339-9a6b-539fdc58025b/0cac0d70-4792-4bd3-8117-d4603d498679/3000x3000/chatgpt-20image-20mar-2026-202025-2008-59-58-20pm.jpg?aid=rss_feed https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com episodic The show for athletes, creators, and builders chasing their own version of victory. Hosted by Nik Atanackovic, The Victory Degree Podcast is built around a simple idea: success leaves clues, and the best lessons come from the people who have lived the journey. Nik sits down with elite athletes, entrepreneurs, and high performers to unpack the moments that shaped them. These conversations go beyond highlight reels and surface-level motivation, diving into the mindset shifts, failures, and decisions that lead to real success. Each episode explores the stories, habits, and mental frameworks behind great performance—on the field, in business, and in life. If you want deeper conversations about what it actually takes to win, The Victory Degree Podcast gives you a front-row seat to the people living it. Nik Atanackovic false https://feeds.simplecast.com/nVQwFaIo mlb, nfl, nhl, sports, victory degree, nba, the victory degree Nik Atanackovic nik@thevictorydegree.com 15860ae8-5780-42e5-9eed-74f68ea8d362 Inside the Mind of Elon Musk What does it actually mean to learn from someone you disagree with?

Eric Jorgenson spent five years compiling the most useful ideas from one of the most polarizing figures alive — Elon Musk. Not a political book. Not hero worship. Just the frameworks, mental models, and philosophy behind someone who built things everyone said were impossible.

We get into why Elon was a legend in the tech world long before he became a household name, what made him worth writing a book about in the first place, and how Eric thinks about separating someone's ideas from their controversies.

Plus the Naval quote on beliefs that everyone needs to hear.

Connect with Eric: 

Instagram: instagram.com/erjorgenson/

X: x.com/EricJorgenson

Website: ejorgenson.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Fri, 27 Mar 2026 19:28:22 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/inside-the-mind-of-elon-musk-iEp90sOF What does it actually mean to learn from someone you disagree with?

Eric Jorgenson spent five years compiling the most useful ideas from one of the most polarizing figures alive — Elon Musk. Not a political book. Not hero worship. Just the frameworks, mental models, and philosophy behind someone who built things everyone said were impossible.

We get into why Elon was a legend in the tech world long before he became a household name, what made him worth writing a book about in the first place, and how Eric thinks about separating someone's ideas from their controversies.

Plus the Naval quote on beliefs that everyone needs to hear.

Connect with Eric: 

Instagram: instagram.com/erjorgenson/

X: x.com/EricJorgenson

Website: ejorgenson.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Inside the Mind of Elon Musk Nik Atanackovic 01:16:19 What does it actually mean to learn from someone you disagree with? Eric Jorgenson spent five years compiling the most useful ideas from one of the most polarizing figures alive — Elon Musk. Not a political book. Not hero worship. Just the frameworks, mental models, and philosophy behind someone who built things everyone said were impossible. We get into why Elon was a legend in the tech world long before he became a household name, what made him worth writing a book about in the first place, and how Eric thinks about separating someone's ideas from their controversies. Plus the Naval quote on beliefs that everyone needs to hear. What does it actually mean to learn from someone you disagree with? Eric Jorgenson spent five years compiling the most useful ideas from one of the most polarizing figures alive — Elon Musk. Not a political book. Not hero worship. Just the frameworks, mental models, and philosophy behind someone who built things everyone said were impossible. We get into why Elon was a legend in the tech world long before he became a household name, what made him worth writing a book about in the first place, and how Eric thinks about separating someone's ideas from their controversies. Plus the Naval quote on beliefs that everyone needs to hear. success, elon musk, victory degree podcasta, success mindset, the victory degree podcast, entrepreneur mindset, victory degree, mindset, jorgenson, eric jorgenson, entrepreneur, podcast, business mindset false full 98 b6c0b3f0-3557-42b6-b750-09f05a9754c9 Tom Brady's Secret Weapon: Lessons From The Legendary Coach Who Changed Everything Tom House has spent nearly 80 years learning what it actually takes to build elite athletes — and he's still coaching. A former MLB pitcher turned pitching coach, Tom has worked with some of the most iconic athletes in sports history — including Tom Brady, Drew Brees, Nolan Ryan, and a long list of MLB pitchers spanning multiple generations. In this conversation, he shares the philosophy that has kept him relevant across decades of sport, technology, and cultural change. We get into why today's athletes are physically better than ever but technically underdeveloped, what most coaches get wrong about solving performance problems, and why Tom believes baseball is a game of failure coached by negative people in a misinformation environment. He also breaks down the four performance absolutes he's built his coaching system around — and why the mental and emotional side of sport is still the most overlooked piece of the puzzle. Tom also opens up about his personal health journey, what authenticity really means when you're working with superstars like Brady and Brees, and why — after a career full of Hall of Famers — his favorite athletes to coach might surprise you. If you've ever wanted to hear from someone who has worked with the best in the world and still shows up every day to make athletes better, this one's for you.

Connect with Tom: 

Instagram: instagram.com/tomhousesports/ 

Website: nationalpitching.com/ 

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Fri, 20 Mar 2026 17:15:31 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/tom-bradys-secret-weapon-the-80-year-old-coach-who-changed-everything-z1lQgY0D Tom House has spent nearly 80 years learning what it actually takes to build elite athletes — and he's still coaching. A former MLB pitcher turned pitching coach, Tom has worked with some of the most iconic athletes in sports history — including Tom Brady, Drew Brees, Nolan Ryan, and a long list of MLB pitchers spanning multiple generations. In this conversation, he shares the philosophy that has kept him relevant across decades of sport, technology, and cultural change. We get into why today's athletes are physically better than ever but technically underdeveloped, what most coaches get wrong about solving performance problems, and why Tom believes baseball is a game of failure coached by negative people in a misinformation environment. He also breaks down the four performance absolutes he's built his coaching system around — and why the mental and emotional side of sport is still the most overlooked piece of the puzzle. Tom also opens up about his personal health journey, what authenticity really means when you're working with superstars like Brady and Brees, and why — after a career full of Hall of Famers — his favorite athletes to coach might surprise you. If you've ever wanted to hear from someone who has worked with the best in the world and still shows up every day to make athletes better, this one's for you.

Connect with Tom: 

Instagram: instagram.com/tomhousesports/ 

Website: nationalpitching.com/ 

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Tom Brady's Secret Weapon: Lessons From The Legendary Coach Who Changed Everything Nik Atanackovic 01:01:17 Tom House has spent nearly 80 years learning what it actually takes to build elite athletes — and he's still coaching. A former MLB pitcher turned pitching coach, Tom has worked with some of the most iconic athletes in sports history — including Tom Brady, Drew Brees, Nolan Ryan, and a long list of MLB pitchers spanning multiple generations. In this conversation, he shares the philosophy that has kept him relevant across decades of sport, technology, and cultural change. We get into why today's athletes are physically better than ever but technically underdeveloped, what most coaches get wrong about solving performance problems, and why Tom believes baseball is a game of failure coached by negative people in a misinformation environment. He also breaks down the four performance absolutes he's built his coaching system around — and why the mental and emotional side of sport is still the most overlooked piece of the puzzle. Tom also opens up about his personal health journey, what authenticity really means when you're working with superstars like Brady and Brees, and why — after a career full of Hall of Famers — his favorite athletes to coach might surprise you. If you've ever wanted to hear from someone who has worked with the best in the world and still shows up every day to make athletes better, this one's for you. Tom House has spent nearly 80 years learning what it actually takes to build elite athletes — and he's still coaching. A former MLB pitcher turned pitching coach, Tom has worked with some of the most iconic athletes in sports history — including Tom Brady, Drew Brees, Nolan Ryan, and a long list of MLB pitchers spanning multiple generations. In this conversation, he shares the philosophy that has kept him relevant across decades of sport, technology, and cultural change. We get into why today's athletes are physically better than ever but technically underdeveloped, what most coaches get wrong about solving performance problems, and why Tom believes baseball is a game of failure coached by negative people in a misinformation environment. He also breaks down the four performance absolutes he's built his coaching system around — and why the mental and emotional side of sport is still the most overlooked piece of the puzzle. Tom also opens up about his personal health journey, what authenticity really means when you're working with superstars like Brady and Brees, and why — after a career full of Hall of Famers — his favorite athletes to coach might surprise you. If you've ever wanted to hear from someone who has worked with the best in the world and still shows up every day to make athletes better, this one's for you. sports philosophy, success, mental toughness training, nfl, high performance, mlb, victory degree, tom house, tom, nik atanackovic, performance, mental performance, anxiety, coaching, podcast, coach, drew brees, tom brady false full 97 ed19582c-88cc-449c-b582-05cb4abf353b Why You Should Take More Risks (Lessons from a 13-Year NFL Veteran) What does it really take to chase a dream for decades—even when the outcome isn’t what you imagined? Former NFL quarterback Luke McCown joins the podcast to share the mindset that carried him through 13 seasons in the league, the risks he took pursuing football since childhood, and the lessons he learned from setbacks, injuries, and the unpredictable journey of professional sports. From growing up in small-town Texas to standing on NFL sidelines alongside some of the game’s greatest quarterbacks, Luke reflects on faith, discipline, failure, and why the attempt itself can be more fulfilling than the result. This conversation dives into the psychology of risk, the pursuit of excellence, and why focusing on the journey—not the outcome—can change the way you approach your goals. If you’re chasing something big in sports, business, or life, this episode will challenge the way you think about success.

Connect with Luke: 

Twitter: x.com/luke_mccown 

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Sat, 14 Mar 2026 15:30:29 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/luke-mccown-ah07YvHm What does it really take to chase a dream for decades—even when the outcome isn’t what you imagined? Former NFL quarterback Luke McCown joins the podcast to share the mindset that carried him through 13 seasons in the league, the risks he took pursuing football since childhood, and the lessons he learned from setbacks, injuries, and the unpredictable journey of professional sports. From growing up in small-town Texas to standing on NFL sidelines alongside some of the game’s greatest quarterbacks, Luke reflects on faith, discipline, failure, and why the attempt itself can be more fulfilling than the result. This conversation dives into the psychology of risk, the pursuit of excellence, and why focusing on the journey—not the outcome—can change the way you approach your goals. If you’re chasing something big in sports, business, or life, this episode will challenge the way you think about success.

Connect with Luke: 

Twitter: x.com/luke_mccown 

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Why You Should Take More Risks (Lessons from a 13-Year NFL Veteran) Nik Atanackovic 01:24:23 What does it really take to chase a dream for decades—even when the outcome isn’t what you imagined? Former NFL quarterback Luke McCown joins the podcast to share the mindset that carried him through 13 seasons in the league, the risks he took pursuing football since childhood, and the lessons he learned from setbacks, injuries, and the unpredictable journey of professional sports. From growing up in small-town Texas to standing on NFL sidelines alongside some of the game’s greatest quarterbacks, Luke reflects on faith, discipline, failure, and why the attempt itself can be more fulfilling than the result. This conversation dives into the psychology of risk, the pursuit of excellence, and why focusing on the journey—not the outcome—can change the way you approach your goals. If you’re chasing something big in sports, business, or life, this episode will challenge the way you think about success. What does it really take to chase a dream for decades—even when the outcome isn’t what you imagined? Former NFL quarterback Luke McCown joins the podcast to share the mindset that carried him through 13 seasons in the league, the risks he took pursuing football since childhood, and the lessons he learned from setbacks, injuries, and the unpredictable journey of professional sports. From growing up in small-town Texas to standing on NFL sidelines alongside some of the game’s greatest quarterbacks, Luke reflects on faith, discipline, failure, and why the attempt itself can be more fulfilling than the result. This conversation dives into the psychology of risk, the pursuit of excellence, and why focusing on the journey—not the outcome—can change the way you approach your goals. If you’re chasing something big in sports, business, or life, this episode will challenge the way you think about success. luke mccown, success, nfl, the victory degree, failure, victory degree, mindset matters, mindset, risk, nik, luke, nfl football false full 96 ce4bcfa6-3b2f-40b6-b599-7c8b1d07dc62 "You're Overthinking Success" The 1% Mindset That Changes Everything | Bishop Kevin Foreman In this conversation, Nik sits down with Bishop Kevin Foreman to unpack one of the biggest misconceptions about success: that it’s complicated. Together they explore why the most powerful principles in life, business, and personal growth are often the simplest ones — and why so many people still struggle to apply them. Bishop Foreman shares raw stories from his own journey, including building major businesses, facing sudden financial collapse, and navigating moments where everything seemed to fall apart. The discussion dives into the difference between knowledge and execution, why many people stay stuck in “learning mode,” and how action — even imperfect action — creates momentum. They also explore powerful mental frameworks like “ready, fire, aim,” useful thoughts, resilience, patience, and the mindset shift that turns setbacks into setups. Through personal stories, practical analogies, and honest reflections on failure, the episode reveals why progress often comes from simply taking the next step instead of waiting for perfect conditions. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure whether you’re on the right path, this conversation offers a refreshing reminder: sometimes success is less about knowing more — and more about doing more with what you already know. 

Connect with Bishop Kevin Foreman: 

Twitter: x.com/bishopforeman 

Instagram: instagram.com/bishopforeman/ 

Website: harvestchurch.church/bishop-kevin-foreman 

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Fri, 6 Mar 2026 20:41:57 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/kevin-WQR1786L In this conversation, Nik sits down with Bishop Kevin Foreman to unpack one of the biggest misconceptions about success: that it’s complicated. Together they explore why the most powerful principles in life, business, and personal growth are often the simplest ones — and why so many people still struggle to apply them. Bishop Foreman shares raw stories from his own journey, including building major businesses, facing sudden financial collapse, and navigating moments where everything seemed to fall apart. The discussion dives into the difference between knowledge and execution, why many people stay stuck in “learning mode,” and how action — even imperfect action — creates momentum. They also explore powerful mental frameworks like “ready, fire, aim,” useful thoughts, resilience, patience, and the mindset shift that turns setbacks into setups. Through personal stories, practical analogies, and honest reflections on failure, the episode reveals why progress often comes from simply taking the next step instead of waiting for perfect conditions. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure whether you’re on the right path, this conversation offers a refreshing reminder: sometimes success is less about knowing more — and more about doing more with what you already know. 

Connect with Bishop Kevin Foreman: 

Twitter: x.com/bishopforeman 

Instagram: instagram.com/bishopforeman/ 

Website: harvestchurch.church/bishop-kevin-foreman 

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> "You're Overthinking Success" The 1% Mindset That Changes Everything | Bishop Kevin Foreman Nik Atanackovic 01:22:29 In this conversation, Nik sits down with Bishop Kevin Foreman to unpack one of the biggest misconceptions about success: that it’s complicated. Together they explore why the most powerful principles in life, business, and personal growth are often the simplest ones — and why so many people still struggle to apply them. Bishop Foreman shares raw stories from his own journey, including building major businesses, facing sudden financial collapse, and navigating moments where everything seemed to fall apart. The discussion dives into the difference between knowledge and execution, why many people stay stuck in “learning mode,” and how action — even imperfect action — creates momentum. They also explore powerful mental frameworks like “ready, fire, aim,” useful thoughts, resilience, patience, and the mindset shift that turns setbacks into setups. Through personal stories, practical analogies, and honest reflections on failure, the episode reveals why progress often comes from simply taking the next step instead of waiting for perfect conditions. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure whether you’re on the right path, this conversation offers a refreshing reminder: sometimes success is less about knowing more — and more about doing more with what you already know. In this conversation, Nik sits down with Bishop Kevin Foreman to unpack one of the biggest misconceptions about success: that it’s complicated. Together they explore why the most powerful principles in life, business, and personal growth are often the simplest ones — and why so many people still struggle to apply them. Bishop Foreman shares raw stories from his own journey, including building major businesses, facing sudden financial collapse, and navigating moments where everything seemed to fall apart. The discussion dives into the difference between knowledge and execution, why many people stay stuck in “learning mode,” and how action — even imperfect action — creates momentum. They also explore powerful mental frameworks like “ready, fire, aim,” useful thoughts, resilience, patience, and the mindset shift that turns setbacks into setups. Through personal stories, practical analogies, and honest reflections on failure, the episode reveals why progress often comes from simply taking the next step instead of waiting for perfect conditions. If you’ve ever felt stuck, overwhelmed, or unsure whether you’re on the right path, this conversation offers a refreshing reminder: sometimes success is less about knowing more — and more about doing more with what you already know. kevin foreman, success, kevin, motivation, high performance, success mindset, bishop foreman, the victory degree, mindset shift, victory degree, bishop, nik atanackovic, success habits, entrepreneurship, victory degree podcast, entrepreneur, nik, leadership, bishop kevin foreman, self improvement false full 95 e7b77a56-6b0d-49b6-a77e-11e64c08dc09 The TOP Principles of 0.01% Leaders What separates champions from everyone else? In this episode, we break down the sports psychology behind elite performance — from Roger Federer winning just 54% of his points to Simone Biles stepping away to rebuild mentally and come back stronger. This isn’t about hype or highlight reels. It’s about how the best athletes in the world handle loss, manage pressure, and make decisions when outcomes are uncertain. We dive into why winning is a weak signal of decision quality, how obsession can both build greatness and destroy it, and why resilience — not raw talent — is the real separator at the highest levels of competition. If you’re an athlete, coach, competitor, or just someone chasing greatness, this conversation will completely reframe how you think about performance, failure, and long-term success.

Connect with Sebastien: 

Instagram: instagram.com/sebastienpagebook/

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sebastien-page/

Buy "The Psychology of Leadership": amzn.to/4l06mgN

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Fri, 27 Feb 2026 20:40:10 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/the-top-principles-of-0-01-leaders-toX3zvYJ What separates champions from everyone else? In this episode, we break down the sports psychology behind elite performance — from Roger Federer winning just 54% of his points to Simone Biles stepping away to rebuild mentally and come back stronger. This isn’t about hype or highlight reels. It’s about how the best athletes in the world handle loss, manage pressure, and make decisions when outcomes are uncertain. We dive into why winning is a weak signal of decision quality, how obsession can both build greatness and destroy it, and why resilience — not raw talent — is the real separator at the highest levels of competition. If you’re an athlete, coach, competitor, or just someone chasing greatness, this conversation will completely reframe how you think about performance, failure, and long-term success.

Connect with Sebastien: 

Instagram: instagram.com/sebastienpagebook/

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/sebastien-page/

Buy "The Psychology of Leadership": amzn.to/4l06mgN

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> The TOP Principles of 0.01% Leaders Nik Atanackovic 01:27:50 What separates champions from everyone else? In this episode, we break down the sports psychology behind elite performance — from Roger Federer winning just 54% of his points to Simone Biles stepping away to rebuild mentally and come back stronger. This isn’t about hype or highlight reels. It’s about how the best athletes in the world handle loss, manage pressure, and make decisions when outcomes are uncertain. We dive into why winning is a weak signal of decision quality, how obsession can both build greatness and destroy it, and why resilience — not raw talent — is the real separator at the highest levels of competition. If you’re an athlete, coach, competitor, or just someone chasing greatness, this conversation will completely reframe how you think about performance, failure, and long-term success. What separates champions from everyone else? In this episode, we break down the sports psychology behind elite performance — from Roger Federer winning just 54% of his points to Simone Biles stepping away to rebuild mentally and come back stronger. This isn’t about hype or highlight reels. It’s about how the best athletes in the world handle loss, manage pressure, and make decisions when outcomes are uncertain. We dive into why winning is a weak signal of decision quality, how obsession can both build greatness and destroy it, and why resilience — not raw talent — is the real separator at the highest levels of competition. If you’re an athlete, coach, competitor, or just someone chasing greatness, this conversation will completely reframe how you think about performance, failure, and long-term success. winning mindset, performance under pressure, success, mental toughness training, how champions think, simone biles, high performance, success mindset, high performance habits, sports leadership, how to build mental toughness, victory degree, resilience training, sports psychology, decision making, nik atanackovic, positive psychology, athlete, mindset, peak performance, roger federer, athlete mindset, nik, leadership, leadership psychology, victory false full 94 2920bd44-0a17-431a-b98d-8c2f2d31ae32 Don't Do Business With Dicks | David Meltzer In this episode, David Meltzer breaks down the mindset shifts, habits, and principles that separate people who stay stuck from those who build meaningful success. From how we think about money to how we use our time, this conversation challenges common beliefs and reveals a different way to approach growth, happiness, and fulfillment. We explore what most people misunderstand about success, why helping others plays a bigger role than you think, and how daily behaviors shape long-term outcomes. David also shares lessons from decades in business and coaching high performers on what truly drives momentum. If you’ve ever felt like you’re capable of more but unsure what’s holding you back, this episode will shift how you see your path forward. 

Connect with David: 

Instagram: instagram.com/davidmeltzer/ 

Buy "Don't Do Business With Dicks": dontdobusinesswithdcks.com/ 

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Fri, 20 Feb 2026 14:34:50 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/don-t-do-business-with-dicks-david-meltzer-F63YpqFe In this episode, David Meltzer breaks down the mindset shifts, habits, and principles that separate people who stay stuck from those who build meaningful success. From how we think about money to how we use our time, this conversation challenges common beliefs and reveals a different way to approach growth, happiness, and fulfillment. We explore what most people misunderstand about success, why helping others plays a bigger role than you think, and how daily behaviors shape long-term outcomes. David also shares lessons from decades in business and coaching high performers on what truly drives momentum. If you’ve ever felt like you’re capable of more but unsure what’s holding you back, this episode will shift how you see your path forward. 

Connect with David: 

Instagram: instagram.com/davidmeltzer/ 

Buy "Don't Do Business With Dicks": dontdobusinesswithdcks.com/ 

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Don't Do Business With Dicks | David Meltzer Nik Atanackovic 00:21:19 In this episode, David Meltzer breaks down the mindset shifts, habits, and principles that separate people who stay stuck from those who build meaningful success. From how we think about money to how we use our time, this conversation challenges common beliefs and reveals a different way to approach growth, happiness, and fulfillment. We explore what most people misunderstand about success, why helping others plays a bigger role than you think, and how daily behaviors shape long-term outcomes. David also shares lessons from decades in business and coaching high performers on what truly drives momentum. If you’ve ever felt like you’re capable of more but unsure what’s holding you back, this episode will shift how you see your path forward. In this episode, David Meltzer breaks down the mindset shifts, habits, and principles that separate people who stay stuck from those who build meaningful success. From how we think about money to how we use our time, this conversation challenges common beliefs and reveals a different way to approach growth, happiness, and fulfillment. We explore what most people misunderstand about success, why helping others plays a bigger role than you think, and how daily behaviors shape long-term outcomes. David also shares lessons from decades in business and coaching high performers on what truly drives momentum. If you’ve ever felt like you’re capable of more but unsure what’s holding you back, this episode will shift how you see your path forward. david meltzer, the victory degree, victory degree, meltzer, business, entrepreneurship, entrepreneur, nik false full 93 91219977-167b-4aba-9b6d-af31fc9c32fa The 1% Mindset That Separates NFL Athletes From Everyone Else Former NFL player Marcus Peterson joins the show to share his unconventional path from Inglewood to the league, and how football became the platform that launched his journey into entrepreneurship and global business. In this conversation, Marcus opens up about using fear of regret as fuel, learning to “unlearn” societal norms, and why taking action beats waiting for the perfect opportunity every time.

We also dive into the realities of chasing the NFL dream, the mindset required to stay ready when opportunity finally calls, and how athletes can leverage their credibility and networks to build lasting careers off the field. Marcus breaks down the importance of controlling your “information diet,” embracing rejection, and building a life rooted in purpose, not pressure.

If you’re interested in mindset, sports, entrepreneurship, and the transition from athlete to business leader, this episode is packed with real perspective and practical insight.

Connect with Marcus: 

Instagram: instagram.com/marcustpeterson/

Website: proedgebranding.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

X: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Sat, 14 Feb 2026 14:01:50 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/marcus-peterson-kiSKEJLF Former NFL player Marcus Peterson joins the show to share his unconventional path from Inglewood to the league, and how football became the platform that launched his journey into entrepreneurship and global business. In this conversation, Marcus opens up about using fear of regret as fuel, learning to “unlearn” societal norms, and why taking action beats waiting for the perfect opportunity every time.

We also dive into the realities of chasing the NFL dream, the mindset required to stay ready when opportunity finally calls, and how athletes can leverage their credibility and networks to build lasting careers off the field. Marcus breaks down the importance of controlling your “information diet,” embracing rejection, and building a life rooted in purpose, not pressure.

If you’re interested in mindset, sports, entrepreneurship, and the transition from athlete to business leader, this episode is packed with real perspective and practical insight.

Connect with Marcus: 

Instagram: instagram.com/marcustpeterson/

Website: proedgebranding.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

X: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> The 1% Mindset That Separates NFL Athletes From Everyone Else Nik Atanackovic 00:42:35 Former NFL player Marcus Peterson joins the show to share his unconventional path from Inglewood to the league, and how football became the platform that launched his journey into entrepreneurship and global business. In this conversation, Marcus opens up about using fear of regret as fuel, learning to “unlearn” societal norms, and why taking action beats waiting for the perfect opportunity every time. We also dive into the realities of chasing the NFL dream, the mindset required to stay ready when opportunity finally calls, and how athletes can leverage their credibility and networks to build lasting careers off the field. Marcus breaks down the importance of controlling your “information diet,” embracing rejection, and building a life rooted in purpose, not pressure. If you’re interested in mindset, sports, entrepreneurship, and the transition from athlete to business leader, this episode is packed with real perspective and practical insight. Former NFL player Marcus Peterson joins the show to share his unconventional path from Inglewood to the league, and how football became the platform that launched his journey into entrepreneurship and global business. In this conversation, Marcus opens up about using fear of regret as fuel, learning to “unlearn” societal norms, and why taking action beats waiting for the perfect opportunity every time. We also dive into the realities of chasing the NFL dream, the mindset required to stay ready when opportunity finally calls, and how athletes can leverage their credibility and networks to build lasting careers off the field. Marcus breaks down the importance of controlling your “information diet,” embracing rejection, and building a life rooted in purpose, not pressure. If you’re interested in mindset, sports, entrepreneurship, and the transition from athlete to business leader, this episode is packed with real perspective and practical insight. success, marcus peterson, nfl, the victory degree, victory degree, mindset, entrepreneur, nik, nfl football false full 92 3465af6e-97fd-4d26-94e4-2dd4a2b02b2d From Underdog to Training NBA Hall of Famers — His RARE Blueprint for Winning in Life | PART 1 Ganon Baker joins the show to break down what it really takes to win — in sports, business, and life. From being an undersized underdog chasing an NBA tryout to building a decades-long player development career working with some of the best basketball players in the world, Ganon shares the mindset that carried him through it all.

We get into resilience, performance anxiety, routines, and the truth about “grind culture.” He explains how elite athletes like Kobe, LeBron, and Steph manage pressure, why repetition beats motivation, and how everyday people can apply the same tools to their own careers and lives.

This conversation goes beyond basketball. It’s about learning how to handle doubt, build confidence through action, and create a life built on purpose, discipline, and balance — not just hype.

Connect with Ganon: 

Instagram: instagram.com/ganon_baker_/

Website: ganonbakerbasketball.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

X: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Fri, 6 Feb 2026 14:20:09 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/ganon-baker-on-lessons-learned-from-training-nba-hall-of-famers-B6JukbU_ Ganon Baker joins the show to break down what it really takes to win — in sports, business, and life. From being an undersized underdog chasing an NBA tryout to building a decades-long player development career working with some of the best basketball players in the world, Ganon shares the mindset that carried him through it all.

We get into resilience, performance anxiety, routines, and the truth about “grind culture.” He explains how elite athletes like Kobe, LeBron, and Steph manage pressure, why repetition beats motivation, and how everyday people can apply the same tools to their own careers and lives.

This conversation goes beyond basketball. It’s about learning how to handle doubt, build confidence through action, and create a life built on purpose, discipline, and balance — not just hype.

Connect with Ganon: 

Instagram: instagram.com/ganon_baker_/

Website: ganonbakerbasketball.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

X: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> From Underdog to Training NBA Hall of Famers — His RARE Blueprint for Winning in Life | PART 1 Nik Atanackovic 00:56:41 Ganon Baker joins the show to break down what it really takes to win — in sports, business, and life. From being an undersized underdog chasing an NBA tryout to building a decades-long player development career working with some of the best basketball players in the world, Ganon shares the mindset that carried him through it all. We get into resilience, performance anxiety, routines, and the truth about “grind culture.” He explains how elite athletes like Kobe, LeBron, and Steph manage pressure, why repetition beats motivation, and how everyday people can apply the same tools to their own careers and lives. This conversation goes beyond basketball. It’s about learning how to handle doubt, build confidence through action, and create a life built on purpose, discipline, and balance — not just hype. Ganon Baker joins the show to break down what it really takes to win — in sports, business, and life. From being an undersized underdog chasing an NBA tryout to building a decades-long player development career working with some of the best basketball players in the world, Ganon shares the mindset that carried him through it all. We get into resilience, performance anxiety, routines, and the truth about “grind culture.” He explains how elite athletes like Kobe, LeBron, and Steph manage pressure, why repetition beats motivation, and how everyday people can apply the same tools to their own careers and lives. This conversation goes beyond basketball. It’s about learning how to handle doubt, build confidence through action, and create a life built on purpose, discipline, and balance — not just hype. success, nba, lebron james, victory degree, mindset matters, nik atanackovic, steph curry, basketball, mindset, basketball success, ganon baker false full 91 b40c2f22-0667-4bee-b69c-cf600e4dd353 Jack Gohlke ON: 10 Threes VS Kentucky, Elite Shooting (Steph Curry Method) & March Madness Aftermath What looks like an “overnight success” is almost never overnight. In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Jack Gohlke breaks down the unseen years behind his viral March Madness moment—his mindset before dropping 32 points and 10 threes against Kentucky, the confidence built through years of failure, and what it really takes to be ready when the moment arrives. We dive into discipline vs motivation, building confidence through action, going “pro” with your routine, handling pressure on the biggest stage, and why elite shooters are misunderstood.

 Topics include: 

• The myth of overnight success 

• Building confidence through preparation 

• Discipline vs motivation 

• Going pro with your daily routine 

• Performing under pressure 

• Elite shooting at game speed 

• Failure, reps, and long-term belief 

If you care about basketball, mindset, or chasing excellence when no one’s watching, this conversation hits deep. 

Connect with Jack: 

Instagram: instagram.com/jgohlke34/ 

Website: jackgohlkehoops.com 

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

X: x.com/victorywithnik

]]> Fri, 30 Jan 2026 23:44:23 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/jack-gohlke-on-LRddEn9f What looks like an “overnight success” is almost never overnight. In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Jack Gohlke breaks down the unseen years behind his viral March Madness moment—his mindset before dropping 32 points and 10 threes against Kentucky, the confidence built through years of failure, and what it really takes to be ready when the moment arrives. We dive into discipline vs motivation, building confidence through action, going “pro” with your routine, handling pressure on the biggest stage, and why elite shooters are misunderstood.

 Topics include: 

• The myth of overnight success 

• Building confidence through preparation 

• Discipline vs motivation 

• Going pro with your daily routine 

• Performing under pressure 

• Elite shooting at game speed 

• Failure, reps, and long-term belief 

If you care about basketball, mindset, or chasing excellence when no one’s watching, this conversation hits deep. 

Connect with Jack: 

Instagram: instagram.com/jgohlke34/ 

Website: jackgohlkehoops.com 

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

X: x.com/victorywithnik

]]> Jack Gohlke ON: 10 Threes VS Kentucky, Elite Shooting (Steph Curry Method) & March Madness Aftermath Nik Atanackovic 01:44:03 What looks like an “overnight success” is almost never overnight. In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Jack Gohlke breaks down the unseen years behind his viral March Madness moment—his mindset before dropping 32 points and 10 threes against Kentucky, the confidence built through years of failure, and what it really takes to be ready when the moment arrives. We dive into discipline vs motivation, building confidence through action, going “pro” with your routine, handling pressure on the biggest stage, and why elite shooters are misunderstood. Topics include: • The myth of overnight success • Building confidence through preparation • Discipline vs motivation • Going pro with your daily routine • Performing under pressure • Elite shooting at game speed • Failure, reps, and long-term belief If you care about basketball, mindset, or chasing excellence when no one’s watching, this conversation hits deep. What looks like an “overnight success” is almost never overnight. In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Jack Gohlke breaks down the unseen years behind his viral March Madness moment—his mindset before dropping 32 points and 10 threes against Kentucky, the confidence built through years of failure, and what it really takes to be ready when the moment arrives. We dive into discipline vs motivation, building confidence through action, going “pro” with your routine, handling pressure on the biggest stage, and why elite shooters are misunderstood. Topics include: • The myth of overnight success • Building confidence through preparation • Discipline vs motivation • Going pro with your daily routine • Performing under pressure • Elite shooting at game speed • Failure, reps, and long-term belief If you care about basketball, mindset, or chasing excellence when no one’s watching, this conversation hits deep. march madness, luck, college basketball, the victory degree, victory degree, opportunity, nik atanackovic, oakland basketball, jack, mindset, jack gohlke, nik, kentucky false full 90 461bf820-4edf-4b11-a091-9c3c3b292abc Jimmy Sotos ON: 1.7M TikTok Followers, How To Ignore Haters & The Fake Ball Knower Epidemic Former Ohio State basketball player Jimmy Sotos opens up about the real truth behind playing overseas, building a massive social media following, and navigating identity, confidence, and luck after sports. In this raw, honest conversation, Jimmy breaks down what life is actually like for pro basketball players outside the NBA, from unpaid contracts and wild fan behavior in Europe to culture shock, injuries, and tough career crossroads.

Jimmy shares how TikTok unexpectedly changed his life during COVID, how he went from being “just a basketball player” to a full-time content creator with over 1.7 million followers, and why discipline, resilience, and what he calls “delusional confidence” matter far beyond sports. We dive deep into the mental side of competition, entrepreneurship, and self-belief, including why pressure kills performance, how to deal with online hate, and what separates real “ball knowers” from casual fans.

This episode also explores the overseas basketball experience in Cyprus and Europe, the reality of rookie contracts, cultural differences, EuroLeague vs NBA play style, and why many athletes struggle with identity after their playing careers end. Jimmy doesn’t shy away from tough topics like luck, missed opportunities, imposter syndrome, relationships, and learning when to pivot instead of forcing a dream that no longer fits.

Topics: 

- Ohio State basketball behind the scenes

- Playing professional basketball overseas in Europe and Cyprus

- The truth about unpaid contracts in overseas leagues

- EuroLeague vs NBA style of play and rules differences

- NBA Bubble championship and why it was pure basketball

- LeBron James and the “Mickey Mouse ring” debate

- How crowd noise, travel, and home-court advantage impact NBA teams

- What separates real basketball IQ from casual NBA fandom

- Fake ball knowers vs true basketball analysts

- Why some great college players don’t translate to the NBA

- Evaluating NBA players beyond stats and highlights

- NBA player development, roster construction, and playoff basketball

- TikTok growth and content creation

- Dealing with pressure, expectations, and online criticism

- Delusional confidence and elite athlete mindset

- Why luck matters more than people admit

- Athlete identity after sports

Connect with Jimmy: 

Instagram: instagram.com/jsotos1/

TikTok: tiktok.com/@jimmysotos4

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

X: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Thu, 22 Jan 2026 18:58:31 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/jimmy-sotos-on-17m-tiktok-followers-how-to-ignore-haters-the-fake-ball-knower-epidemic-avCgsxvS Former Ohio State basketball player Jimmy Sotos opens up about the real truth behind playing overseas, building a massive social media following, and navigating identity, confidence, and luck after sports. In this raw, honest conversation, Jimmy breaks down what life is actually like for pro basketball players outside the NBA, from unpaid contracts and wild fan behavior in Europe to culture shock, injuries, and tough career crossroads.

Jimmy shares how TikTok unexpectedly changed his life during COVID, how he went from being “just a basketball player” to a full-time content creator with over 1.7 million followers, and why discipline, resilience, and what he calls “delusional confidence” matter far beyond sports. We dive deep into the mental side of competition, entrepreneurship, and self-belief, including why pressure kills performance, how to deal with online hate, and what separates real “ball knowers” from casual fans.

This episode also explores the overseas basketball experience in Cyprus and Europe, the reality of rookie contracts, cultural differences, EuroLeague vs NBA play style, and why many athletes struggle with identity after their playing careers end. Jimmy doesn’t shy away from tough topics like luck, missed opportunities, imposter syndrome, relationships, and learning when to pivot instead of forcing a dream that no longer fits.

Topics: 

- Ohio State basketball behind the scenes

- Playing professional basketball overseas in Europe and Cyprus

- The truth about unpaid contracts in overseas leagues

- EuroLeague vs NBA style of play and rules differences

- NBA Bubble championship and why it was pure basketball

- LeBron James and the “Mickey Mouse ring” debate

- How crowd noise, travel, and home-court advantage impact NBA teams

- What separates real basketball IQ from casual NBA fandom

- Fake ball knowers vs true basketball analysts

- Why some great college players don’t translate to the NBA

- Evaluating NBA players beyond stats and highlights

- NBA player development, roster construction, and playoff basketball

- TikTok growth and content creation

- Dealing with pressure, expectations, and online criticism

- Delusional confidence and elite athlete mindset

- Why luck matters more than people admit

- Athlete identity after sports

Connect with Jimmy: 

Instagram: instagram.com/jsotos1/

TikTok: tiktok.com/@jimmysotos4

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

X: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Jimmy Sotos ON: 1.7M TikTok Followers, How To Ignore Haters & The Fake Ball Knower Epidemic Nik Atanackovic 01:46:20 Former Ohio State basketball player Jimmy Sotos opens up about the real truth behind playing overseas, building a massive social media following, and navigating identity, confidence, and luck after sports. In this raw, honest conversation, Jimmy breaks down what life is actually like for pro basketball players outside the NBA, from unpaid contracts and wild fan behavior in Europe to culture shock, injuries, and tough career crossroads. Jimmy shares how TikTok unexpectedly changed his life during COVID, how he went from being “just a basketball player” to a full-time content creator with over 1.7 million followers, and why discipline, resilience, and what he calls “delusional confidence” matter far beyond sports. We dive deep into the mental side of competition, entrepreneurship, and self-belief, including why pressure kills performance, how to deal with online hate, and what separates real “ball knowers” from casual fans. This episode also explores the overseas basketball experience in Cyprus and Europe, the reality of rookie contracts, cultural differences, EuroLeague vs NBA play style, and why many athletes struggle with identity after their playing careers end. Jimmy doesn’t shy away from tough topics like luck, missed opportunities, imposter syndrome, relationships, and learning when to pivot instead of forcing a dream that no longer fits. Former Ohio State basketball player Jimmy Sotos opens up about the real truth behind playing overseas, building a massive social media following, and navigating identity, confidence, and luck after sports. In this raw, honest conversation, Jimmy breaks down what life is actually like for pro basketball players outside the NBA, from unpaid contracts and wild fan behavior in Europe to culture shock, injuries, and tough career crossroads. Jimmy shares how TikTok unexpectedly changed his life during COVID, how he went from being “just a basketball player” to a full-time content creator with over 1.7 million followers, and why discipline, resilience, and what he calls “delusional confidence” matter far beyond sports. We dive deep into the mental side of competition, entrepreneurship, and self-belief, including why pressure kills performance, how to deal with online hate, and what separates real “ball knowers” from casual fans. This episode also explores the overseas basketball experience in Cyprus and Europe, the reality of rookie contracts, cultural differences, EuroLeague vs NBA play style, and why many athletes struggle with identity after their playing careers end. Jimmy doesn’t shy away from tough topics like luck, missed opportunities, imposter syndrome, relationships, and learning when to pivot instead of forcing a dream that no longer fits. success, confidence, nba, overseas basketball, ohio state basketball, lebron james, jimmy sotos, tiktok, haters, tim duncan, basketball, mindset, social media, ohio state, kobe bryant false full 89 a9efa962-bcad-41ad-a900-9f93c2045afa Trey Drechsel On: EuroLeague vs NBA, Fear of Regret & The TRUTH About Playing Basketball in Europe What does it really take to make a living playing professional basketball without hype, shortcuts, or fake guru advice? 

In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, professional basketball player Trey Drechsel breaks down the real journey of chasing a career overseas. From growing up as a late bloomer, walking on at the college level, and nearly walking away from the game entirely, Trey shares what most athletes never talk about: the uncertainty, the identity struggles, and the hard decisions that define a career. Trey opens up about why most advice online is misleading, why mastering the basics beats chasing advanced workouts, and how mindset, not talent, is what separates players who last from those who fade out. He explains the difference between repetition based training and constraint based training, how European basketball develops decision making at a deeper level, and why simplicity is the ultimate form of mastery. The conversation dives into the mental side of performance, including fear of failure, regret minimization, and why going all in on something, even if it does not work, is never a waste. Trey also shares what life is actually like playing overseas, including the cultural shock, isolation, financial realities, and long term tradeoffs of missing moments back home. This episode is not just about basketball. It is about committing to a path, closing chapters on your own terms, and understanding that the process of becoming matters more than the result. If you are an athlete, creator, or anyone chasing a long term goal, this conversation will challenge how you think about progress, work, and purpose. 

Topics covered include: 

- Making the leap from college basketball to overseas professional leagues 

- Why most high level advice is useless for young athletes 

- Is the EuroLeague better than the NBA? 

- How to think about failure, regret, and long term decision making 

- Why mastering fundamentals beats chasing shortcuts 

- WILD Serbian Basketball stories 

& much more... 

Connect with Trey: 

Instagram: instagram.com/treydrechsel/ 

YouTube: youtube.com/@TreyDrechsel5 

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

X: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Wed, 14 Jan 2026 23:26:01 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/trey-drechsel-on-euroleague-vs-nba-fear-of-regret-the-truth-about-playing-basketball-in-europe-_oi2vfav What does it really take to make a living playing professional basketball without hype, shortcuts, or fake guru advice? 

In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, professional basketball player Trey Drechsel breaks down the real journey of chasing a career overseas. From growing up as a late bloomer, walking on at the college level, and nearly walking away from the game entirely, Trey shares what most athletes never talk about: the uncertainty, the identity struggles, and the hard decisions that define a career. Trey opens up about why most advice online is misleading, why mastering the basics beats chasing advanced workouts, and how mindset, not talent, is what separates players who last from those who fade out. He explains the difference between repetition based training and constraint based training, how European basketball develops decision making at a deeper level, and why simplicity is the ultimate form of mastery. The conversation dives into the mental side of performance, including fear of failure, regret minimization, and why going all in on something, even if it does not work, is never a waste. Trey also shares what life is actually like playing overseas, including the cultural shock, isolation, financial realities, and long term tradeoffs of missing moments back home. This episode is not just about basketball. It is about committing to a path, closing chapters on your own terms, and understanding that the process of becoming matters more than the result. If you are an athlete, creator, or anyone chasing a long term goal, this conversation will challenge how you think about progress, work, and purpose. 

Topics covered include: 

- Making the leap from college basketball to overseas professional leagues 

- Why most high level advice is useless for young athletes 

- Is the EuroLeague better than the NBA? 

- How to think about failure, regret, and long term decision making 

- Why mastering fundamentals beats chasing shortcuts 

- WILD Serbian Basketball stories 

& much more... 

Connect with Trey: 

Instagram: instagram.com/treydrechsel/ 

YouTube: youtube.com/@TreyDrechsel5 

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/ 

X: x.com/victorywithnik

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Trey Drechsel On: EuroLeague vs NBA, Fear of Regret & The TRUTH About Playing Basketball in Europe Nik Atanackovic 01:58:23 What does it really take to make a living playing professional basketball without hype, shortcuts, or fake guru advice? In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, professional basketball player Trey Drechsel breaks down the real journey of chasing a career overseas. From growing up as a late bloomer, walking on at the college level, and nearly walking away from the game entirely, Trey shares what most athletes never talk about: the uncertainty, the identity struggles, and the hard decisions that define a career. Trey opens up about why most advice online is misleading, why mastering the basics beats chasing advanced workouts, and how mindset, not talent, is what separates players who last from those who fade out. He explains the difference between repetition based training and constraint based training, how European basketball develops decision making at a deeper level, and why simplicity is the ultimate form of mastery. The conversation dives into the mental side of performance, including fear of failure, regret minimization, and why going all in on something, even if it does not work, is never a waste. Trey also shares what life is actually like playing overseas, including the cultural shock, isolation, financial realities, and long term tradeoffs of missing moments back home. This episode is not just about basketball. It is about committing to a path, closing chapters on your own terms, and understanding that the process of becoming matters more than the result. If you are an athlete, creator, or anyone chasing a long term goal, this conversation will challenge how you think about progress, work, and purpose. Topics covered include: - Making the leap from college basketball to overseas professional leagues - Why most high level advice is useless for young athletes - Is the EuroLeague better than the NBA? - How to think about failure, regret, and long term decision making - Why mastering fundamentals beats chasing shortcuts - WILD Serbian Basketball stories & much more... What does it really take to make a living playing professional basketball without hype, shortcuts, or fake guru advice? In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, professional basketball player Trey Drechsel breaks down the real journey of chasing a career overseas. From growing up as a late bloomer, walking on at the college level, and nearly walking away from the game entirely, Trey shares what most athletes never talk about: the uncertainty, the identity struggles, and the hard decisions that define a career. Trey opens up about why most advice online is misleading, why mastering the basics beats chasing advanced workouts, and how mindset, not talent, is what separates players who last from those who fade out. He explains the difference between repetition based training and constraint based training, how European basketball develops decision making at a deeper level, and why simplicity is the ultimate form of mastery. The conversation dives into the mental side of performance, including fear of failure, regret minimization, and why going all in on something, even if it does not work, is never a waste. Trey also shares what life is actually like playing overseas, including the cultural shock, isolation, financial realities, and long term tradeoffs of missing moments back home. This episode is not just about basketball. It is about committing to a path, closing chapters on your own terms, and understanding that the process of becoming matters more than the result. If you are an athlete, creator, or anyone chasing a long term goal, this conversation will challenge how you think about progress, work, and purpose. Topics covered include: - Making the leap from college basketball to overseas professional leagues - Why most high level advice is useless for young athletes - Is the EuroLeague better than the NBA? - How to think about failure, regret, and long term decision making - Why mastering fundamentals beats chasing shortcuts - WILD Serbian Basketball stories & much more... success, europe, european basketball, nba, professional basketball player, failure, basketball player, professional mindset, basketball, mindset, euroleague, trey drechsel false full 88 07f1502f-54ff-43b1-9d5d-d4f80c79ab21 Nick Knows Ball ON: Ben Simmons Shooting Montages, Marcin Gortat Screens & NBA Conspiracy Theories In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, I sit down with Nick — one of the most creative new voices in NBA content — to break down basketball culture, internet humor, and why true ball knowers are gravitating toward his viral videos.

We dive deep into how the NBA has changed over the last 20 years, from the mystique of players like Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and Shaquille O’Neal to today’s hyper-exposed era of LeBron James, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokic, and Stephen Curry. Nick explains why seeing players on Instagram, TikTok, and podcasts has fundamentally altered how fans perceive greatness.

Nick also explains how his viral content ideas came to life, including:

- Hilarious NBA career earnings breakdowns featuring players like Tobias Harris, Ben Simmons, Ish Smith, Timofey Mozgov, Furkan Korkmaz, and Rashard Lewis

- The now-viral gas station skits, packed with ultra-niche references like Chris Paul’s snake dribbles, Ben Simmons free throws, and Marcin Gortat screens

- Why even role players and journeymen make more money than most people realize — and why that fact shocks fans

We also get into bigger conversations around:

- How sports gambling and fantasy sports are changing fan behavior — and why players like Michael Porter Jr. and real NBA athletes are directly impacted

- Why younger fans view stars like LeBron James differently than past generations viewed legends

- How highlights and box scores have replaced actually watching full NBA games

- Why authenticity beats copying trends when building an audience

- The mindset shift creators need before posting their first video

Nick also shares why NBA players like Duncan Robinson have interacted with his content, how inside jokes turn into internet communities, and why taking creative risks beats playing it safe.

This episode is part NBA history lesson, part content-creation masterclass, and part life philosophy — all wrapped in dry humor only real hoop heads will appreciate.

Connect With Nick: 

Instagram: instagram.com/nick.knows.ball/ 

TikTok: tiktok.com/@nick.knows.ball

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Wed, 7 Jan 2026 20:30:25 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/nick-knows-ball-on-ben-simmons-shooting-montages-marcin-gortat-screens-nba-conspiracy-theories-8sMSiR_R In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, I sit down with Nick — one of the most creative new voices in NBA content — to break down basketball culture, internet humor, and why true ball knowers are gravitating toward his viral videos.

We dive deep into how the NBA has changed over the last 20 years, from the mystique of players like Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and Shaquille O’Neal to today’s hyper-exposed era of LeBron James, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokic, and Stephen Curry. Nick explains why seeing players on Instagram, TikTok, and podcasts has fundamentally altered how fans perceive greatness.

Nick also explains how his viral content ideas came to life, including:

- Hilarious NBA career earnings breakdowns featuring players like Tobias Harris, Ben Simmons, Ish Smith, Timofey Mozgov, Furkan Korkmaz, and Rashard Lewis

- The now-viral gas station skits, packed with ultra-niche references like Chris Paul’s snake dribbles, Ben Simmons free throws, and Marcin Gortat screens

- Why even role players and journeymen make more money than most people realize — and why that fact shocks fans

We also get into bigger conversations around:

- How sports gambling and fantasy sports are changing fan behavior — and why players like Michael Porter Jr. and real NBA athletes are directly impacted

- Why younger fans view stars like LeBron James differently than past generations viewed legends

- How highlights and box scores have replaced actually watching full NBA games

- Why authenticity beats copying trends when building an audience

- The mindset shift creators need before posting their first video

Nick also shares why NBA players like Duncan Robinson have interacted with his content, how inside jokes turn into internet communities, and why taking creative risks beats playing it safe.

This episode is part NBA history lesson, part content-creation masterclass, and part life philosophy — all wrapped in dry humor only real hoop heads will appreciate.

Connect With Nick: 

Instagram: instagram.com/nick.knows.ball/ 

TikTok: tiktok.com/@nick.knows.ball

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Nick Knows Ball ON: Ben Simmons Shooting Montages, Marcin Gortat Screens & NBA Conspiracy Theories Nik Atanackovic 01:57:29 In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, I sit down with Nick — one of the most creative new voices in NBA content — to break down basketball culture, internet humor, and why true ball knowers are gravitating toward his viral videos. We dive deep into how the NBA has changed over the last 20 years, from the mystique of players like Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and Shaquille O’Neal to today’s hyper-exposed era of LeBron James, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokic, and Stephen Curry. Nick explains why seeing players on Instagram, TikTok, and podcasts has fundamentally altered how fans perceive greatness. Nick also explains how his viral content ideas came to life, including: - Hilarious NBA career earnings breakdowns featuring players like Tobias Harris, Ben Simmons, Ish Smith, Timofey Mozgov, Furkan Korkmaz, and Rashard Lewis - The now-viral gas station skits, packed with ultra-niche references like Chris Paul’s snake dribbles, Ben Simmons free throws, and Marcin Gortat screens - Why even role players and journeymen make more money than most people realize — and why that fact shocks fans We also get into bigger conversations around: - How sports gambling and fantasy sports are changing fan behavior — and why players like Michael Porter Jr. and real NBA athletes are directly impacted - Why younger fans view stars like LeBron James differently than past generations viewed legends - How highlights and box scores have replaced actually watching full NBA games - Why authenticity beats copying trends when building an audience - The mindset shift creators need before posting their first video Nick also shares why NBA players like Duncan Robinson have interacted with his content, how inside jokes turn into internet communities, and why taking creative risks beats playing it safe. This episode is part NBA history lesson, part content-creation masterclass, and part life philosophy — all wrapped in dry humor only real hoop heads will appreciate. In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, I sit down with Nick — one of the most creative new voices in NBA content — to break down basketball culture, internet humor, and why true ball knowers are gravitating toward his viral videos. We dive deep into how the NBA has changed over the last 20 years, from the mystique of players like Michael Jordan, Larry Bird, Magic Johnson, and Shaquille O’Neal to today’s hyper-exposed era of LeBron James, Shai Gilgeous-Alexander, Nikola Jokic, and Stephen Curry. Nick explains why seeing players on Instagram, TikTok, and podcasts has fundamentally altered how fans perceive greatness. Nick also explains how his viral content ideas came to life, including: - Hilarious NBA career earnings breakdowns featuring players like Tobias Harris, Ben Simmons, Ish Smith, Timofey Mozgov, Furkan Korkmaz, and Rashard Lewis - The now-viral gas station skits, packed with ultra-niche references like Chris Paul’s snake dribbles, Ben Simmons free throws, and Marcin Gortat screens - Why even role players and journeymen make more money than most people realize — and why that fact shocks fans We also get into bigger conversations around: - How sports gambling and fantasy sports are changing fan behavior — and why players like Michael Porter Jr. and real NBA athletes are directly impacted - Why younger fans view stars like LeBron James differently than past generations viewed legends - How highlights and box scores have replaced actually watching full NBA games - Why authenticity beats copying trends when building an audience - The mindset shift creators need before posting their first video Nick also shares why NBA players like Duncan Robinson have interacted with his content, how inside jokes turn into internet communities, and why taking creative risks beats playing it safe. This episode is part NBA history lesson, part content-creation masterclass, and part life philosophy — all wrapped in dry humor only real hoop heads will appreciate. nick knows ball, creator, nba, nba, larry bird, basketball, mindset, michael jordan, authenticity false full 87 8d4ec494-99db-4108-b3e0-2eaed5d1df99 John Abraham On: 133.5 Sacks, Sacking Colin Kaerpernick, NFL's Mental Battle & Becoming Unbreakable NFL success isn’t just about talent — it’s about mindset, resilience, and survival. In this powerful episode of The Victory Degree, former NFL star John Abraham pulls back the curtain on what it truly takes to make it — and last — at the highest level as a professional athlete. From his rise as one of the most feared pass rushers in football to his prime years with the Atlanta Falcons, John shares the unseen mental battles behind elite NFL performance.

John Abraham reflects on his journey through the NFL, explaining why sacks are more mental than physical, how injuries test an athlete’s identity, and why effort matters more than perfection. As an athlete with 133.5 career sacks, John breaks down how preparation, mindset, and self-belief separated him from others trying to survive in the league. His time with the Atlanta Falcons and New York Jets gives rare insight into locker room culture, leadership, and the pressure that comes with NFL success.

This episode goes far beyond stats. John opens up about growing up in a small town, being doubted early, and learning how fear of failure — and fear of success — shaped his career. He dives into the financial pressure many NFL athletes face, the responsibility of supporting family, and the reality fans never see behind the contracts. His story highlights why mindset is the foundation of long-term NFL success, both on and off the field.

John also shares how he reframed adversity after football, how fatherhood changed his definition of success, and why mental resilience matters long after the game ends.

Connect With John: 

Instagram: instagram.com/j.abraham55/

Facebook: facebook.com/classicabraham55

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Wed, 31 Dec 2025 19:59:02 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/john-abraham-on-1335-sacks-sacking-colin-kaerpernick-nfls-mental-battle-becoming-unbreakable-nojdDOHF NFL success isn’t just about talent — it’s about mindset, resilience, and survival. In this powerful episode of The Victory Degree, former NFL star John Abraham pulls back the curtain on what it truly takes to make it — and last — at the highest level as a professional athlete. From his rise as one of the most feared pass rushers in football to his prime years with the Atlanta Falcons, John shares the unseen mental battles behind elite NFL performance.

John Abraham reflects on his journey through the NFL, explaining why sacks are more mental than physical, how injuries test an athlete’s identity, and why effort matters more than perfection. As an athlete with 133.5 career sacks, John breaks down how preparation, mindset, and self-belief separated him from others trying to survive in the league. His time with the Atlanta Falcons and New York Jets gives rare insight into locker room culture, leadership, and the pressure that comes with NFL success.

This episode goes far beyond stats. John opens up about growing up in a small town, being doubted early, and learning how fear of failure — and fear of success — shaped his career. He dives into the financial pressure many NFL athletes face, the responsibility of supporting family, and the reality fans never see behind the contracts. His story highlights why mindset is the foundation of long-term NFL success, both on and off the field.

John also shares how he reframed adversity after football, how fatherhood changed his definition of success, and why mental resilience matters long after the game ends.

Connect With John: 

Instagram: instagram.com/j.abraham55/

Facebook: facebook.com/classicabraham55

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> John Abraham On: 133.5 Sacks, Sacking Colin Kaerpernick, NFL's Mental Battle & Becoming Unbreakable Nik Atanackovic 01:48:08 NFL success isn’t just about talent — it’s about mindset, resilience, and survival. In this powerful episode of The Victory Degree, former NFL star John Abraham pulls back the curtain on what it truly takes to make it — and last — at the highest level as a professional athlete. From his rise as one of the most feared pass rushers in football to his prime years with the Atlanta Falcons, John shares the unseen mental battles behind elite NFL performance. John Abraham reflects on his journey through the NFL, explaining why sacks are more mental than physical, how injuries test an athlete’s identity, and why effort matters more than perfection. As an athlete with 133.5 career sacks, John breaks down how preparation, mindset, and self-belief separated him from others trying to survive in the league. His time with the Atlanta Falcons and New York Jets gives rare insight into locker room culture, leadership, and the pressure that comes with NFL success. This episode goes far beyond stats. John opens up about growing up in a small town, being doubted early, and learning how fear of failure — and fear of success — shaped his career. He dives into the financial pressure many NFL athletes face, the responsibility of supporting family, and the reality fans never see behind the contracts. His story highlights why mindset is the foundation of long-term NFL success, both on and off the field. John also shares how he reframed adversity after football, how fatherhood changed his definition of success, and why mental resilience matters long after the game ends. NFL success isn’t just about talent — it’s about mindset, resilience, and survival. In this powerful episode of The Victory Degree, former NFL star John Abraham pulls back the curtain on what it truly takes to make it — and last — at the highest level as a professional athlete. From his rise as one of the most feared pass rushers in football to his prime years with the Atlanta Falcons, John shares the unseen mental battles behind elite NFL performance. John Abraham reflects on his journey through the NFL, explaining why sacks are more mental than physical, how injuries test an athlete’s identity, and why effort matters more than perfection. As an athlete with 133.5 career sacks, John breaks down how preparation, mindset, and self-belief separated him from others trying to survive in the league. His time with the Atlanta Falcons and New York Jets gives rare insight into locker room culture, leadership, and the pressure that comes with NFL success. This episode goes far beyond stats. John opens up about growing up in a small town, being doubted early, and learning how fear of failure — and fear of success — shaped his career. He dives into the financial pressure many NFL athletes face, the responsibility of supporting family, and the reality fans never see behind the contracts. His story highlights why mindset is the foundation of long-term NFL success, both on and off the field. John also shares how he reframed adversity after football, how fatherhood changed his definition of success, and why mental resilience matters long after the game ends. success, the victory degree, failure, victory degree, nik atanackovic, john abraham, athlete, mindset, atlanta falcons, nik false full 86 040de601-a09c-4b40-ba91-da4acd2b4862 Kevin Dahlstrom ON: $1 Million Doesn't Make You Rich, Why Most Entrepreneurs Fail & The Lie About Success What if everything you’ve been taught about business, being an entrepreneur, achieving success, and mastering your mindset is actually leading you in the wrong direction? In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Kevin Dahlstrom to unpack the truths most people in entrepreneurship never talk about. This episode challenges conventional wisdom around ambition, hustle, and achievement, and forces you to rethink what real success in business actually looks like when mindset, fulfillment, and purpose are placed at the center.

Kevin Dahlstrom is a former C-suite executive who appeared to “have it all” by traditional standards of business success. He had the titles, the income, the prestige, and the external validation that so many entrepreneurs chase. Yet beneath the surface, his mindset was deteriorating. In this episode, Kevin shares why walking away from millions wasn’t a failure — it was the most strategic decision he ever made as an entrepreneur focused on long-term success.

We explore the hidden psychological costs of modern entrepreneurship and why so many high-performing people in business feel unfulfilled despite outward success. Kevin explains how chasing status, money, and recognition can quietly erode your mindset, distort your identity, and disconnect you from what actually matters. This conversation goes deep into the tension between ambition and peace, and how redefining success can completely reshape both your business and your life.

The episode also dives into how environment plays a massive role in entrepreneurial success and mindset. Kevin breaks down why where you live, who you surround yourself with, and how you structure your days may be more important than any business strategy or productivity hack. Many entrepreneurs obsess over tactics while ignoring the foundational elements that support sustainable success.

We also discuss the future of business in an AI-driven world and what entrepreneurs need to understand right now to stay relevant. Kevin shares why artificial intelligence will reshape entrepreneurship and the job market faster than most people expect — and why mindset adaptability will be the defining skill for future success. Rather than fear change, he explains how entrepreneurs can use uncertainty as leverage.

Throughout the conversation, we touch on failure, luck, ego, and identity — topics rarely discussed honestly in business circles. Kevin opens up about rebuilding his life from the ground up, recalibrating his mindset, and designing a version of success rooted in values rather than validation. This episode isn’t about quitting business or ambition — it’s about upgrading how you approach entrepreneurship so success doesn’t come at the cost of your health, happiness, or integrity.

If you’re an entrepreneur questioning the traditional definition of success, feeling burned out by hustle culture, or searching for a stronger mindset to build a business you’re actually proud of, this episode will challenge you in the best way possible. It’s a reminder that real success in entrepreneurship isn’t just measured by revenue or titles — it’s measured by alignment, clarity, and the life your business allows you to live.

Connect With Kevin: 

Twitter: x.com/Camp4 

Website: bolt.health/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Wed, 10 Dec 2025 20:53:22 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/kevin-dahlstrom-on-1-million-doesnt-make-you-rich-why-most-entrepreneurs-fail-the-lie-about-success-Lmp6yAGY What if everything you’ve been taught about business, being an entrepreneur, achieving success, and mastering your mindset is actually leading you in the wrong direction? In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Kevin Dahlstrom to unpack the truths most people in entrepreneurship never talk about. This episode challenges conventional wisdom around ambition, hustle, and achievement, and forces you to rethink what real success in business actually looks like when mindset, fulfillment, and purpose are placed at the center.

Kevin Dahlstrom is a former C-suite executive who appeared to “have it all” by traditional standards of business success. He had the titles, the income, the prestige, and the external validation that so many entrepreneurs chase. Yet beneath the surface, his mindset was deteriorating. In this episode, Kevin shares why walking away from millions wasn’t a failure — it was the most strategic decision he ever made as an entrepreneur focused on long-term success.

We explore the hidden psychological costs of modern entrepreneurship and why so many high-performing people in business feel unfulfilled despite outward success. Kevin explains how chasing status, money, and recognition can quietly erode your mindset, distort your identity, and disconnect you from what actually matters. This conversation goes deep into the tension between ambition and peace, and how redefining success can completely reshape both your business and your life.

The episode also dives into how environment plays a massive role in entrepreneurial success and mindset. Kevin breaks down why where you live, who you surround yourself with, and how you structure your days may be more important than any business strategy or productivity hack. Many entrepreneurs obsess over tactics while ignoring the foundational elements that support sustainable success.

We also discuss the future of business in an AI-driven world and what entrepreneurs need to understand right now to stay relevant. Kevin shares why artificial intelligence will reshape entrepreneurship and the job market faster than most people expect — and why mindset adaptability will be the defining skill for future success. Rather than fear change, he explains how entrepreneurs can use uncertainty as leverage.

Throughout the conversation, we touch on failure, luck, ego, and identity — topics rarely discussed honestly in business circles. Kevin opens up about rebuilding his life from the ground up, recalibrating his mindset, and designing a version of success rooted in values rather than validation. This episode isn’t about quitting business or ambition — it’s about upgrading how you approach entrepreneurship so success doesn’t come at the cost of your health, happiness, or integrity.

If you’re an entrepreneur questioning the traditional definition of success, feeling burned out by hustle culture, or searching for a stronger mindset to build a business you’re actually proud of, this episode will challenge you in the best way possible. It’s a reminder that real success in entrepreneurship isn’t just measured by revenue or titles — it’s measured by alignment, clarity, and the life your business allows you to live.

Connect With Kevin: 

Twitter: x.com/Camp4 

Website: bolt.health/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Kevin Dahlstrom ON: $1 Million Doesn't Make You Rich, Why Most Entrepreneurs Fail & The Lie About Success Nik Atanackovic 01:37:37 What if everything you’ve been taught about business, being an entrepreneur, achieving success, and mastering your mindset is actually leading you in the wrong direction? In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Kevin Dahlstrom to unpack the truths most people in entrepreneurship never talk about. This episode challenges conventional wisdom around ambition, hustle, and achievement, and forces you to rethink what real success in business actually looks like when mindset, fulfillment, and purpose are placed at the center. Kevin Dahlstrom is a former C-suite executive who appeared to “have it all” by traditional standards of business success. He had the titles, the income, the prestige, and the external validation that so many entrepreneurs chase. Yet beneath the surface, his mindset was deteriorating. In this episode, Kevin shares why walking away from millions wasn’t a failure — it was the most strategic decision he ever made as an entrepreneur focused on long-term success. We explore the hidden psychological costs of modern entrepreneurship and why so many high-performing people in business feel unfulfilled despite outward success. Kevin explains how chasing status, money, and recognition can quietly erode your mindset, distort your identity, and disconnect you from what actually matters. This conversation goes deep into the tension between ambition and peace, and how redefining success can completely reshape both your business and your life. The episode also dives into how environment plays a massive role in entrepreneurial success and mindset. Kevin breaks down why where you live, who you surround yourself with, and how you structure your days may be more important than any business strategy or productivity hack. Many entrepreneurs obsess over tactics while ignoring the foundational elements that support sustainable success. We also discuss the future of business in an AI-driven world and what entrepreneurs need to understand right now to stay relevant. Kevin shares why artificial intelligence will reshape entrepreneurship and the job market faster than most people expect — and why mindset adaptability will be the defining skill for future success. Rather than fear change, he explains how entrepreneurs can use uncertainty as leverage. Throughout the conversation, we touch on failure, luck, ego, and identity — topics rarely discussed honestly in business circles. Kevin opens up about rebuilding his life from the ground up, recalibrating his mindset, and designing a version of success rooted in values rather than validation. This episode isn’t about quitting business or ambition — it’s about upgrading how you approach entrepreneurship so success doesn’t come at the cost of your health, happiness, or integrity. If you’re an entrepreneur questioning the traditional definition of success, feeling burned out by hustle culture, or searching for a stronger mindset to build a business you’re actually proud of, this episode will challenge you in the best way possible. It’s a reminder that real success in entrepreneurship isn’t just measured by revenue or titles — it’s measured by alignment, clarity, and the life your business allows you to live. What if everything you’ve been taught about business, being an entrepreneur, achieving success, and mastering your mindset is actually leading you in the wrong direction? In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Kevin Dahlstrom to unpack the truths most people in entrepreneurship never talk about. This episode challenges conventional wisdom around ambition, hustle, and achievement, and forces you to rethink what real success in business actually looks like when mindset, fulfillment, and purpose are placed at the center. Kevin Dahlstrom is a former C-suite executive who appeared to “have it all” by traditional standards of business success. He had the titles, the income, the prestige, and the external validation that so many entrepreneurs chase. Yet beneath the surface, his mindset was deteriorating. In this episode, Kevin shares why walking away from millions wasn’t a failure — it was the most strategic decision he ever made as an entrepreneur focused on long-term success. We explore the hidden psychological costs of modern entrepreneurship and why so many high-performing people in business feel unfulfilled despite outward success. Kevin explains how chasing status, money, and recognition can quietly erode your mindset, distort your identity, and disconnect you from what actually matters. This conversation goes deep into the tension between ambition and peace, and how redefining success can completely reshape both your business and your life. The episode also dives into how environment plays a massive role in entrepreneurial success and mindset. Kevin breaks down why where you live, who you surround yourself with, and how you structure your days may be more important than any business strategy or productivity hack. Many entrepreneurs obsess over tactics while ignoring the foundational elements that support sustainable success. We also discuss the future of business in an AI-driven world and what entrepreneurs need to understand right now to stay relevant. Kevin shares why artificial intelligence will reshape entrepreneurship and the job market faster than most people expect — and why mindset adaptability will be the defining skill for future success. Rather than fear change, he explains how entrepreneurs can use uncertainty as leverage. Throughout the conversation, we touch on failure, luck, ego, and identity — topics rarely discussed honestly in business circles. Kevin opens up about rebuilding his life from the ground up, recalibrating his mindset, and designing a version of success rooted in values rather than validation. This episode isn’t about quitting business or ambition — it’s about upgrading how you approach entrepreneurship so success doesn’t come at the cost of your health, happiness, or integrity. If you’re an entrepreneur questioning the traditional definition of success, feeling burned out by hustle culture, or searching for a stronger mindset to build a business you’re actually proud of, this episode will challenge you in the best way possible. It’s a reminder that real success in entrepreneurship isn’t just measured by revenue or titles — it’s measured by alignment, clarity, and the life your business allows you to live. success, kevin dahlstrom, the victory degree, victory degree, business, mindset, entrepreneurship, entrepreneur false full 85 6dfd58d0-ddc3-4571-bd5e-1022d48551e4 LEGENDARY Basketball Coach On: Magic Johnson, 23 Winning Seasons + The Game That Shocked America In today’s episode, Legendary Coach Jim Johnson shares the unbelievable journey that led him from being fired at 25… to building one of the most consistent winning cultures in high school basketball. We talk about his unforgettable encounter with Magic Johnson, the leadership lessons behind 23 straight winning seasons, and of course, the iconic J-Mac game that shocked the nation and became a global inspiration story (over 1 million views on ESPN). 

Coach Johnson breaks down: 

- The mindset shift that saved his coaching career 

- How imagery, confidence, and mental training transformed his teams 

- Stories from Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and the Van Gundy family 

- What separates the top 0.1% performers from everyone else 

- Why the J-Mac moment still gives him chills to this day 

Connect With Coach Johnson: 

Twitter: x.com/CoachJimJohnson 

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/coachjimjohnson/ 

Website: coachjimjohnson.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Wed, 26 Nov 2025 20:56:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/legendary-basketball-coach-on-magic-johnson-23-winning-seasons-the-game-that-shocked-america-AbQli6Yt In today’s episode, Legendary Coach Jim Johnson shares the unbelievable journey that led him from being fired at 25… to building one of the most consistent winning cultures in high school basketball. We talk about his unforgettable encounter with Magic Johnson, the leadership lessons behind 23 straight winning seasons, and of course, the iconic J-Mac game that shocked the nation and became a global inspiration story (over 1 million views on ESPN). 

Coach Johnson breaks down: 

- The mindset shift that saved his coaching career 

- How imagery, confidence, and mental training transformed his teams 

- Stories from Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and the Van Gundy family 

- What separates the top 0.1% performers from everyone else 

- Why the J-Mac moment still gives him chills to this day 

Connect With Coach Johnson: 

Twitter: x.com/CoachJimJohnson 

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/coachjimjohnson/ 

Website: coachjimjohnson.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> LEGENDARY Basketball Coach On: Magic Johnson, 23 Winning Seasons + The Game That Shocked America Nik Atanackovic 01:21:46 In today’s episode, Legendary Coach Jim Johnson shares the unbelievable journey that led him from being fired at 25… to building one of the most consistent winning cultures in high school basketball. We talk about his unforgettable encounter with Magic Johnson, the leadership lessons behind 23 straight winning seasons, and of course, the iconic J-Mac game that shocked the nation and became a global inspiration story (over 1 million views on ESPN). Coach Johnson breaks down: - The mindset shift that saved his coaching career - How imagery, confidence, and mental training transformed his teams - Stories from Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and the Van Gundy family - What separates the top 0.1% performers from everyone else - Why the J-Mac moment still gives him chills to this day In today’s episode, Legendary Coach Jim Johnson shares the unbelievable journey that led him from being fired at 25… to building one of the most consistent winning cultures in high school basketball. We talk about his unforgettable encounter with Magic Johnson, the leadership lessons behind 23 straight winning seasons, and of course, the iconic J-Mac game that shocked the nation and became a global inspiration story (over 1 million views on ESPN). Coach Johnson breaks down: - The mindset shift that saved his coaching career - How imagery, confidence, and mental training transformed his teams - Stories from Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and the Van Gundy family - What separates the top 0.1% performers from everyone else - Why the J-Mac moment still gives him chills to this day coach jim johnson, jim johnson, nba, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, basketball, mindset, nik, coach false full 84 1bc9c1a7-29b9-46aa-ad83-9e20f2021441 David Tyree On: Overcoming Addiction, Hidden Giants Stories + The Blueprint for Beating Brady What does it really take to survive in the NFL — not just on Sundays, but in life? In this powerful episode of The Victory Degree, Super Bowl champion David Tyree shares the untold story behind one of the most iconic moments in NFL history and the unseen battles that almost ended his career before it ever peaked. This conversation goes far beyond highlights and box scores, diving deep into mindset, identity, and what true success actually looks like for a professional athlete.

Long before the Helmet Catch became an immortal moment in sports, David Tyree was fighting internal wars that few people knew about. He opens up about the pressure of the NFL, the mistakes that nearly cost him everything, and the turning points that reshaped his mindset on and off the field. Rather than glorifying the moment everyone remembers, David breaks down the preparation, resilience, and mental discipline required to stay ready when opportunity finally shows up.

We explore how leadership and culture inside the New York Giants created a championship environment, why timing and belief matter just as much as talent in the NFL, and how elite athletes separate themselves when the stakes are highest. David also reflects on the lessons learned from teammates, coaches, and moments of adversity that forced him to redefine his version of success beyond football.

This episode is about more than sports. It’s about overcoming personal demons, rebuilding confidence, and developing a mindset that holds up when life doesn’t go according to plan. Whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or anyone chasing excellence, David Tyree’s story offers timeless lessons on perseverance, faith, and purpose after the spotlight fades.

If you’re interested in sports, high-performance mindset, and the real stories behind legendary NFL moments, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Connect With David: 

Twitter: x.com/TyreeNation

Instagram: instagram.com/dtyree85/

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/davidtyree85/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Thu, 20 Nov 2025 18:18:22 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/david-tyree-8JYiUgQV What does it really take to survive in the NFL — not just on Sundays, but in life? In this powerful episode of The Victory Degree, Super Bowl champion David Tyree shares the untold story behind one of the most iconic moments in NFL history and the unseen battles that almost ended his career before it ever peaked. This conversation goes far beyond highlights and box scores, diving deep into mindset, identity, and what true success actually looks like for a professional athlete.

Long before the Helmet Catch became an immortal moment in sports, David Tyree was fighting internal wars that few people knew about. He opens up about the pressure of the NFL, the mistakes that nearly cost him everything, and the turning points that reshaped his mindset on and off the field. Rather than glorifying the moment everyone remembers, David breaks down the preparation, resilience, and mental discipline required to stay ready when opportunity finally shows up.

We explore how leadership and culture inside the New York Giants created a championship environment, why timing and belief matter just as much as talent in the NFL, and how elite athletes separate themselves when the stakes are highest. David also reflects on the lessons learned from teammates, coaches, and moments of adversity that forced him to redefine his version of success beyond football.

This episode is about more than sports. It’s about overcoming personal demons, rebuilding confidence, and developing a mindset that holds up when life doesn’t go according to plan. Whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or anyone chasing excellence, David Tyree’s story offers timeless lessons on perseverance, faith, and purpose after the spotlight fades.

If you’re interested in sports, high-performance mindset, and the real stories behind legendary NFL moments, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.

Connect With David: 

Twitter: x.com/TyreeNation

Instagram: instagram.com/dtyree85/

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/davidtyree85/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> David Tyree On: Overcoming Addiction, Hidden Giants Stories + The Blueprint for Beating Brady Nik Atanackovic 01:20:05 What does it really take to survive in the NFL — not just on Sundays, but in life? In this powerful episode of The Victory Degree, Super Bowl champion David Tyree shares the untold story behind one of the most iconic moments in NFL history and the unseen battles that almost ended his career before it ever peaked. This conversation goes far beyond highlights and box scores, diving deep into mindset, identity, and what true success actually looks like for a professional athlete. Long before the Helmet Catch became an immortal moment in sports, David Tyree was fighting internal wars that few people knew about. He opens up about the pressure of the NFL, the mistakes that nearly cost him everything, and the turning points that reshaped his mindset on and off the field. Rather than glorifying the moment everyone remembers, David breaks down the preparation, resilience, and mental discipline required to stay ready when opportunity finally shows up. We explore how leadership and culture inside the New York Giants created a championship environment, why timing and belief matter just as much as talent in the NFL, and how elite athletes separate themselves when the stakes are highest. David also reflects on the lessons learned from teammates, coaches, and moments of adversity that forced him to redefine his version of success beyond football. This episode is about more than sports. It’s about overcoming personal demons, rebuilding confidence, and developing a mindset that holds up when life doesn’t go according to plan. Whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or anyone chasing excellence, David Tyree’s story offers timeless lessons on perseverance, faith, and purpose after the spotlight fades. If you’re interested in sports, high-performance mindset, and the real stories behind legendary NFL moments, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. What does it really take to survive in the NFL — not just on Sundays, but in life? In this powerful episode of The Victory Degree, Super Bowl champion David Tyree shares the untold story behind one of the most iconic moments in NFL history and the unseen battles that almost ended his career before it ever peaked. This conversation goes far beyond highlights and box scores, diving deep into mindset, identity, and what true success actually looks like for a professional athlete. Long before the Helmet Catch became an immortal moment in sports, David Tyree was fighting internal wars that few people knew about. He opens up about the pressure of the NFL, the mistakes that nearly cost him everything, and the turning points that reshaped his mindset on and off the field. Rather than glorifying the moment everyone remembers, David breaks down the preparation, resilience, and mental discipline required to stay ready when opportunity finally shows up. We explore how leadership and culture inside the New York Giants created a championship environment, why timing and belief matter just as much as talent in the NFL, and how elite athletes separate themselves when the stakes are highest. David also reflects on the lessons learned from teammates, coaches, and moments of adversity that forced him to redefine his version of success beyond football. This episode is about more than sports. It’s about overcoming personal demons, rebuilding confidence, and developing a mindset that holds up when life doesn’t go according to plan. Whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or anyone chasing excellence, David Tyree’s story offers timeless lessons on perseverance, faith, and purpose after the spotlight fades. If you’re interested in sports, high-performance mindset, and the real stories behind legendary NFL moments, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss. success, sports, nfl, football, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, athlete, mindset, new york giants, nik, giants, tyree, david tyree false full 83 0b0e8c43-5e5b-46a5-9d67-d3a3c02cf15a Jay Bilas On: Journey to ESPN, GOAT Debate, Lessons From Coach K + Has Sports Gambling Gone Too Far? Jay Bilas joins The Victory Degree Podcast for an honest and thought-provoking conversation on confidence, criticism, and the evolving world of college sports. From his early days under Coach K at Duke to his insights on NIL, social media, and mental toughness, Jay shares the lessons that shaped his career as a player, coach, lawyer, and broadcaster.

We talk about:

- Why self-belief starts with hard work and mentors

- How to handle negativity, criticism, and “you suck” comments online

- Coach K’s biggest lessons on preparation and leadership

- NIL, sports gambling, and how money is reshaping college athletics

- What confidence really means — and how Jay built his

- Who the best college prospect of all time is

& much more...

Connect With Jay: 

Twitter: x.com/JayBilas

Instagram: instagram.com/jaybilas/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Thu, 13 Nov 2025 22:34:54 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/jay-bilas-j0pLSnba Jay Bilas joins The Victory Degree Podcast for an honest and thought-provoking conversation on confidence, criticism, and the evolving world of college sports. From his early days under Coach K at Duke to his insights on NIL, social media, and mental toughness, Jay shares the lessons that shaped his career as a player, coach, lawyer, and broadcaster.

We talk about:

- Why self-belief starts with hard work and mentors

- How to handle negativity, criticism, and “you suck” comments online

- Coach K’s biggest lessons on preparation and leadership

- NIL, sports gambling, and how money is reshaping college athletics

- What confidence really means — and how Jay built his

- Who the best college prospect of all time is

& much more...

Connect With Jay: 

Twitter: x.com/JayBilas

Instagram: instagram.com/jaybilas/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Jay Bilas On: Journey to ESPN, GOAT Debate, Lessons From Coach K + Has Sports Gambling Gone Too Far? Nik Atanackovic 01:43:33 Jay Bilas joins The Victory Degree Podcast for an honest and thought-provoking conversation on confidence, criticism, and the evolving world of college sports. From his early days under Coach K at Duke to his insights on NIL, social media, and mental toughness, Jay shares the lessons that shaped his career as a player, coach, lawyer, and broadcaster. We talk about: - Why self-belief starts with hard work and mentors - How to handle negativity, criticism, and “you suck” comments online - Coach K’s biggest lessons on preparation and leadership - NIL, sports gambling, and how money is reshaping college athletics - What confidence really means — and how Jay built his - Who the best college prospect of all time is & much more... Jay Bilas joins The Victory Degree Podcast for an honest and thought-provoking conversation on confidence, criticism, and the evolving world of college sports. From his early days under Coach K at Duke to his insights on NIL, social media, and mental toughness, Jay shares the lessons that shaped his career as a player, coach, lawyer, and broadcaster. We talk about: - Why self-belief starts with hard work and mentors - How to handle negativity, criticism, and “you suck” comments online - Coach K’s biggest lessons on preparation and leadership - NIL, sports gambling, and how money is reshaping college athletics - What confidence really means — and how Jay built his - Who the best college prospect of all time is & much more... bilas, college basketball, the victory degree, victory degree, steph curry, jay bilas false full 82 15c815fd-9a07-4f10-b2d0-2e626748ac24 Breiden Fehoko On: Hidden Politics of the NFL, A Crazy Justin Herbert Story + Principles for Success Former NFL defensive lineman Breiden Fehoko (Chargers, Steelers, LSU) joins The Victory Degree to pull back the curtain on the truth about the NFL — from how politics decide who plays, to how mental health and self-belief define success long after the game ends.

Breiden opens up about playing with Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, Russell Wilson, and what he’s learned about opportunity, timing, and resilience. We also dive into social media pressure, life after football, and why “delusional self-belief” might be the secret ingredient every athlete needs.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to make it — and stay — in the NFL, this conversation will change how you see the game forever.

Connect With Breiden: 

Twitter: x.com/BreidenFehoko

Instagram: instagram.com/bfehoko/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Thu, 6 Nov 2025 21:45:58 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/breiden-fehoko-on-hidden-politics-of-the-nfl-a-crazy-justin-herbert-story-principles-for-success-xu_G_Via Former NFL defensive lineman Breiden Fehoko (Chargers, Steelers, LSU) joins The Victory Degree to pull back the curtain on the truth about the NFL — from how politics decide who plays, to how mental health and self-belief define success long after the game ends.

Breiden opens up about playing with Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, Russell Wilson, and what he’s learned about opportunity, timing, and resilience. We also dive into social media pressure, life after football, and why “delusional self-belief” might be the secret ingredient every athlete needs.

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to make it — and stay — in the NFL, this conversation will change how you see the game forever.

Connect With Breiden: 

Twitter: x.com/BreidenFehoko

Instagram: instagram.com/bfehoko/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Breiden Fehoko On: Hidden Politics of the NFL, A Crazy Justin Herbert Story + Principles for Success Nik Atanackovic 01:24:03 Former NFL defensive lineman Breiden Fehoko (Chargers, Steelers, LSU) joins The Victory Degree to pull back the curtain on the truth about the NFL — from how politics decide who plays, to how mental health and self-belief define success long after the game ends. Breiden opens up about playing with Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, Russell Wilson, and what he’s learned about opportunity, timing, and resilience. We also dive into social media pressure, life after football, and why “delusional self-belief” might be the secret ingredient every athlete needs. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to make it — and stay — in the NFL, this conversation will change how you see the game forever. Former NFL defensive lineman Breiden Fehoko (Chargers, Steelers, LSU) joins The Victory Degree to pull back the curtain on the truth about the NFL — from how politics decide who plays, to how mental health and self-belief define success long after the game ends. Breiden opens up about playing with Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, Russell Wilson, and what he’s learned about opportunity, timing, and resilience. We also dive into social media pressure, life after football, and why “delusional self-belief” might be the secret ingredient every athlete needs. If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to make it — and stay — in the NFL, this conversation will change how you see the game forever. los angeles chargers, justin herbert, breiden fehoko, the victory degree, chargers, victory degree, joe burrow, steelers, nik atanackovic, patrick mahomes, nik, pittsburgh steelers false full 81 8d92f9fc-2691-44bb-8a4f-c5b757ea3593 Shea Serrano On: LeBron’s Legacy, Greatest Game 7 in NBA History, Tim Duncan’s Greatness + New Book NBA writer and best-selling author Shea Serrano joins Nik Atanackovic on The Victory Degree Podcast to talk about his new book, Expensive Basketball — a love letter to the moments, feelings, and players that make the game beautiful.

From Ray Allen’s jumper vs. Joakim Noah’s, to Tim Duncan’s quiet dominance, Shaq’s unstoppable force, and Kobe’s poetic 60-point farewell, this episode dives deep into the emotional side of basketball — the kind of stuff stats can’t explain.

Topics Covered:

- Why “Expensive Basketball” is about feelings, not numbers

- Shea’s defense of Steph Curry’s magic and Shaq’s speed

- The pain of the 2002 Kings-Lakers series (and why it still hurts)

- Why Tim Duncan is Shea’s favorite player

- LeBron’s rise from “great” to “greatest”

- The beauty behind Kobe’s final game

Connect With Shea: 

Twitter: x.com/SheaSerrano

Instagram: instagram.com/shea.serrano/

Buy The Book: amzn.to/3JsAhQr

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Tue, 28 Oct 2025 21:20:12 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/shea-serrano-MR2KWmMF NBA writer and best-selling author Shea Serrano joins Nik Atanackovic on The Victory Degree Podcast to talk about his new book, Expensive Basketball — a love letter to the moments, feelings, and players that make the game beautiful.

From Ray Allen’s jumper vs. Joakim Noah’s, to Tim Duncan’s quiet dominance, Shaq’s unstoppable force, and Kobe’s poetic 60-point farewell, this episode dives deep into the emotional side of basketball — the kind of stuff stats can’t explain.

Topics Covered:

- Why “Expensive Basketball” is about feelings, not numbers

- Shea’s defense of Steph Curry’s magic and Shaq’s speed

- The pain of the 2002 Kings-Lakers series (and why it still hurts)

- Why Tim Duncan is Shea’s favorite player

- LeBron’s rise from “great” to “greatest”

- The beauty behind Kobe’s final game

Connect With Shea: 

Twitter: x.com/SheaSerrano

Instagram: instagram.com/shea.serrano/

Buy The Book: amzn.to/3JsAhQr

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Shea Serrano On: LeBron’s Legacy, Greatest Game 7 in NBA History, Tim Duncan’s Greatness + New Book Nik Atanackovic 01:19:23 NBA writer and best-selling author Shea Serrano joins Nik Atanackovic on The Victory Degree Podcast to talk about his new book, Expensive Basketball — a love letter to the moments, feelings, and players that make the game beautiful. From Ray Allen’s jumper vs. Joakim Noah’s, to Tim Duncan’s quiet dominance, Shaq’s unstoppable force, and Kobe’s poetic 60-point farewell, this episode dives deep into the emotional side of basketball — the kind of stuff stats can’t explain. Topics Covered: - Why “Expensive Basketball” is about feelings, not numbers - Shea’s defense of Steph Curry’s magic and Shaq’s speed - The pain of the 2002 Kings-Lakers series (and why it still hurts)* - Why Tim Duncan is Shea’s favorite player - LeBron’s rise from “great” to “greatest” - The beauty behind Kobe’s final game NBA writer and best-selling author Shea Serrano joins Nik Atanackovic on The Victory Degree Podcast to talk about his new book, Expensive Basketball — a love letter to the moments, feelings, and players that make the game beautiful. From Ray Allen’s jumper vs. Joakim Noah’s, to Tim Duncan’s quiet dominance, Shaq’s unstoppable force, and Kobe’s poetic 60-point farewell, this episode dives deep into the emotional side of basketball — the kind of stuff stats can’t explain. Topics Covered: - Why “Expensive Basketball” is about feelings, not numbers - Shea’s defense of Steph Curry’s magic and Shaq’s speed - The pain of the 2002 Kings-Lakers series (and why it still hurts)* - Why Tim Duncan is Shea’s favorite player - LeBron’s rise from “great” to “greatest” - The beauty behind Kobe’s final game shea serrano, nba, nik atanackovic, expensive basketball, tim duncan, steph curry, basketball, kobe, nik, bill simmons, kobe bryant false full 80 4d67b133-377b-4f6a-a436-ec527ffb6829 From Money Laundering & Prison To Mentoring World Class Athletes - The Wild Journey of Chad Dunn After serving two years in federal prison for money laundering, Chad Dunn rebuilt his life from the ground up, transforming pain into purpose.

Once a promising athlete turned felon, Chad used his time behind bars to redefine his identity, confront his demons, and build a mission around helping others overcome their limitations.

Today, he is a certified behavioral change specialist with over 20 years of experience in health, modern fitness, and human performance. Chad has trained NFL players, NBA prospects, and individuals recovering from catastrophic injuries, while co-founding and building MOVE Physical Therapy & Human Performance Center in Chandler, Arizona with his wife and business partner, Jackie.

In this conversation, we discuss:

- Why you should do hard things & face your fears 

- How prison became the best thing that ever happened to him

- What it takes to rebuild your life and business from nothing

- The power of true redemption

- Does money make you happy

& much more...

Connect with Chad:
Buy The Book: mindovervirtuallyeverything.com/

Instagram: instagram.com/moveperformance/

Website: moveperformance.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Thu, 23 Oct 2025 21:37:13 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/chad-fyornuv-9ACLs89d After serving two years in federal prison for money laundering, Chad Dunn rebuilt his life from the ground up, transforming pain into purpose.

Once a promising athlete turned felon, Chad used his time behind bars to redefine his identity, confront his demons, and build a mission around helping others overcome their limitations.

Today, he is a certified behavioral change specialist with over 20 years of experience in health, modern fitness, and human performance. Chad has trained NFL players, NBA prospects, and individuals recovering from catastrophic injuries, while co-founding and building MOVE Physical Therapy & Human Performance Center in Chandler, Arizona with his wife and business partner, Jackie.

In this conversation, we discuss:

- Why you should do hard things & face your fears 

- How prison became the best thing that ever happened to him

- What it takes to rebuild your life and business from nothing

- The power of true redemption

- Does money make you happy

& much more...

Connect with Chad:
Buy The Book: mindovervirtuallyeverything.com/

Instagram: instagram.com/moveperformance/

Website: moveperformance.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> From Money Laundering & Prison To Mentoring World Class Athletes - The Wild Journey of Chad Dunn Nik Atanackovic 01:07:48 After serving two years in federal prison for money laundering, Chad Dunn rebuilt his life from the ground up, transforming pain into purpose. Once a promising athlete turned felon, Chad used his time behind bars to redefine his identity, confront his demons, and build a mission around helping others overcome their limitations. Today, he is a certified behavioral change specialist with over 20 years of experience in health, modern fitness, and human performance. Chad has trained NFL players, NBA prospects, and individuals recovering from catastrophic injuries, while co-founding and building MOVE Physical Therapy & Human Performance Center in Chandler, Arizona with his wife and business partner, Jackie. In this conversation, we discuss: - Why you should do hard things & face your fears - How prison became the best thing that ever happened to him - What it takes to rebuild your life and business from nothing - The power of true redemption - Does money make you happy & much more... After serving two years in federal prison for money laundering, Chad Dunn rebuilt his life from the ground up, transforming pain into purpose. Once a promising athlete turned felon, Chad used his time behind bars to redefine his identity, confront his demons, and build a mission around helping others overcome their limitations. Today, he is a certified behavioral change specialist with over 20 years of experience in health, modern fitness, and human performance. Chad has trained NFL players, NBA prospects, and individuals recovering from catastrophic injuries, while co-founding and building MOVE Physical Therapy & Human Performance Center in Chandler, Arizona with his wife and business partner, Jackie. In this conversation, we discuss: - Why you should do hard things & face your fears - How prison became the best thing that ever happened to him - What it takes to rebuild your life and business from nothing - The power of true redemption - Does money make you happy & much more... success, chad dunn, ceo, the victory degree, victory degree, prison, nik atanackovic, founder, business, mindset, nik false full 79 8cc0764a-da84-426d-9baa-10dc14a3f98c Taybor Pepper On Long Snapper Life, Kyle Shanahan, NFL Free Agency Chaos + Mental Health Battles Taybor Pepper sits down with Nik to talk about the real side of the NFL — from getting cut by the 49ers just days into free agency, to what it’s actually like inside a Kyle Shanahan team meeting. He opens up about the chaos of bouncing between teams, the pressure of fighting for a roster spot every year, and how mindfulness helped him stay grounded through it all.

They get into everything: NFL free agency stories, life as a long snapper, Robbie Gould’s mentorship, battling mental health, the mental toll of football, and what it takes to survive nearly a decade in the league.

Connect with Taybor:
Twitter: x.com/TayborSnapping

Instagram: instagram.com/tayborsnapping/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Wed, 15 Oct 2025 21:37:08 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/taybor-pepper-YgMUtYUH Taybor Pepper sits down with Nik to talk about the real side of the NFL — from getting cut by the 49ers just days into free agency, to what it’s actually like inside a Kyle Shanahan team meeting. He opens up about the chaos of bouncing between teams, the pressure of fighting for a roster spot every year, and how mindfulness helped him stay grounded through it all.

They get into everything: NFL free agency stories, life as a long snapper, Robbie Gould’s mentorship, battling mental health, the mental toll of football, and what it takes to survive nearly a decade in the league.

Connect with Taybor:
Twitter: x.com/TayborSnapping

Instagram: instagram.com/tayborsnapping/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Taybor Pepper On Long Snapper Life, Kyle Shanahan, NFL Free Agency Chaos + Mental Health Battles Nik Atanackovic 01:43:18 Taybor Pepper sits down with Nik to talk about the real side of the NFL — from getting cut by the 49ers just days into free agency, to what it’s actually like inside a Kyle Shanahan team meeting. He opens up about the chaos of bouncing between teams, the pressure of fighting for a roster spot every year, and how mindfulness helped him stay grounded through it all. They get into everything: NFL free agency stories, life as a long snapper, Robbie Gould’s mentorship, battling mental health, the mental toll of football, and what it takes to survive nearly a decade in the league. Taybor Pepper sits down with Nik to talk about the real side of the NFL — from getting cut by the 49ers just days into free agency, to what it’s actually like inside a Kyle Shanahan team meeting. He opens up about the chaos of bouncing between teams, the pressure of fighting for a roster spot every year, and how mindfulness helped him stay grounded through it all. They get into everything: NFL free agency stories, life as a long snapper, Robbie Gould’s mentorship, battling mental health, the mental toll of football, and what it takes to survive nearly a decade in the league. san francisco 49ers, nfl, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, nik, 49ers, nfl football, taybor pepper false full 78 8c875f7d-a0b1-4047-852c-190a5f61bee0 He Played College Football at 59 — His Advice Will Change How You See Life | Mike Flynt At 22, Mike Flynt was kicked out of college football for fighting.
37 years later, at 59 years old, he went back to finish what he started.

This is the unbelievable true story of regret, redemption, and second chances.
We talk about adversity, character, faith, and what it really means to never quit.

In this episode:
• How Mike turned his biggest regret into his greatest comeback
• The power of adversity and why quitting is never an option
• Lessons on faith, character, and choosing to be great
• What a 59-year-old linebacker can teach us about life

Connect with Mike:

🎥 Watch The Seniors in theaters Sept 19
Website: mikeflynt.com

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Tue, 7 Oct 2025 23:53:26 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/mike-flynt-mkIxh_ae At 22, Mike Flynt was kicked out of college football for fighting.
37 years later, at 59 years old, he went back to finish what he started.

This is the unbelievable true story of regret, redemption, and second chances.
We talk about adversity, character, faith, and what it really means to never quit.

In this episode:
• How Mike turned his biggest regret into his greatest comeback
• The power of adversity and why quitting is never an option
• Lessons on faith, character, and choosing to be great
• What a 59-year-old linebacker can teach us about life

Connect with Mike:

🎥 Watch The Seniors in theaters Sept 19
Website: mikeflynt.com

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> He Played College Football at 59 — His Advice Will Change How You See Life | Mike Flynt Nik Atanackovic 01:14:13 At 22, Mike Flynt was kicked out of college football for fighting. 37 years later, at 59 years old, he went back to finish what he started. This is the unbelievable true story of regret, redemption, and second chances. We talk about adversity, character, faith, and what it really means to never quit. 🎥 Watch The Seniors in theaters Sept 19 💪 Connect with Mike: mikeflynt.com In this episode: • How Mike turned his biggest regret into his greatest comeback • The power of adversity and why quitting is never an option • Lessons on faith, character, and choosing to be great • What a 59-year-old linebacker can teach us about life At 22, Mike Flynt was kicked out of college football for fighting. 37 years later, at 59 years old, he went back to finish what he started. This is the unbelievable true story of regret, redemption, and second chances. We talk about adversity, character, faith, and what it really means to never quit. 🎥 Watch The Seniors in theaters Sept 19 💪 Connect with Mike: mikeflynt.com In this episode: • How Mike turned his biggest regret into his greatest comeback • The power of adversity and why quitting is never an option • Lessons on faith, character, and choosing to be great • What a 59-year-old linebacker can teach us about life mike flynt, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, ncaa, nik false full 77 fa5825e4-d06a-4923-8ec0-6c307794e00f Derek Sivers — Selling a $22M Company, Overcoming Fear & Choosing Useful Beliefs Derek Sivers built and sold CD Baby for $22 million, walked away from fame, and chose a radically simple life. In this conversation, Derek shares the unconventional rules, frameworks, and mindset shifts that shaped his journey from overcoming fear to redefining success.

If you’ve ever wondered how to find clarity in a noisy world, escape the trap of endless “inputs,” or design a life that’s truly yours, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we cover:
• The lessons Derek learned from selling CD Baby for $22M
• Why fame is overrated and the hidden downsides no one talks about
• How to turn fear into confidence with one simple rule
• The dangers of consuming without creating and how to “run the program”
• Useful vs. true: the mental framework that changes everything

Derek’s perspective is both refreshing and deeply practical — equal parts philosophy and tactical playbook.

Connect with Derek:

Website: sive.rs/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Wed, 24 Sep 2025 22:05:36 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/derek-sivers-zSfJQFSj Derek Sivers built and sold CD Baby for $22 million, walked away from fame, and chose a radically simple life. In this conversation, Derek shares the unconventional rules, frameworks, and mindset shifts that shaped his journey from overcoming fear to redefining success.

If you’ve ever wondered how to find clarity in a noisy world, escape the trap of endless “inputs,” or design a life that’s truly yours, this episode is for you.

In this episode, we cover:
• The lessons Derek learned from selling CD Baby for $22M
• Why fame is overrated and the hidden downsides no one talks about
• How to turn fear into confidence with one simple rule
• The dangers of consuming without creating and how to “run the program”
• Useful vs. true: the mental framework that changes everything

Derek’s perspective is both refreshing and deeply practical — equal parts philosophy and tactical playbook.

Connect with Derek:

Website: sive.rs/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Derek Sivers — Selling a $22M Company, Overcoming Fear & Choosing Useful Beliefs Nik Atanackovic 01:51:12 Derek Sivers built and sold CD Baby for $22 million, walked away from fame, and chose a radically simple life. In this conversation, Derek shares the unconventional rules, frameworks, and mindset shifts that shaped his journey from overcoming fear to redefining success. If you’ve ever wondered how to find clarity in a noisy world, escape the trap of endless “inputs,” or design a life that’s truly yours, this episode is for you. In this episode, we cover: • The lessons Derek learned from selling CD Baby for $22M • Why fame is overrated and the hidden downsides no one talks about • How to turn fear into confidence with one simple rule • The dangers of consuming without creating and how to “run the program” • Useful vs. true: the mental framework that changes everything Derek’s perspective is both refreshing and deeply practical — equal parts philosophy and tactical playbook. Derek Sivers built and sold CD Baby for $22 million, walked away from fame, and chose a radically simple life. In this conversation, Derek shares the unconventional rules, frameworks, and mindset shifts that shaped his journey from overcoming fear to redefining success. If you’ve ever wondered how to find clarity in a noisy world, escape the trap of endless “inputs,” or design a life that’s truly yours, this episode is for you. In this episode, we cover: • The lessons Derek learned from selling CD Baby for $22M • Why fame is overrated and the hidden downsides no one talks about • How to turn fear into confidence with one simple rule • The dangers of consuming without creating and how to “run the program” • Useful vs. true: the mental framework that changes everything Derek’s perspective is both refreshing and deeply practical — equal parts philosophy and tactical playbook. the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, business, sivers, nik, derek sivers false full 76 5c7ce202-273d-4bd8-bc7b-731e9d56bafb The Brutal Reality of Elite Performance | Brett Hawke What does it really take to push human limits? Brett Hawke — Olympian, world-renowned swim coach, and coach in the Enhanced Games — joins me to reveal the uncomfortable truths about elite performance.

From why “working harder” is the most dangerous advice in sports, to how recovery, self-belief, and even delusional confidence separate good athletes from great ones, this conversation will change how you think about success.

In this episode, we discuss:

- How comparison can unlock human potential

- The dangerous myth of “just work harder”

- How recovery became the real key to elite performance

- The mindset shift that turns fear into Olympic gold

Connect with Brett:

Twitter: x.com/insidewithBH

Instagram: instagram.com/hawkebr/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Wed, 17 Sep 2025 20:29:10 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/the-brutal-reality-of-elite-performance-brett-hawke-B0jF0kwR What does it really take to push human limits? Brett Hawke — Olympian, world-renowned swim coach, and coach in the Enhanced Games — joins me to reveal the uncomfortable truths about elite performance.

From why “working harder” is the most dangerous advice in sports, to how recovery, self-belief, and even delusional confidence separate good athletes from great ones, this conversation will change how you think about success.

In this episode, we discuss:

- How comparison can unlock human potential

- The dangerous myth of “just work harder”

- How recovery became the real key to elite performance

- The mindset shift that turns fear into Olympic gold

Connect with Brett:

Twitter: x.com/insidewithBH

Instagram: instagram.com/hawkebr/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> The Brutal Reality of Elite Performance | Brett Hawke Nik Atanackovic 01:31:23 What does it really take to push human limits? Brett Hawke — Olympian, world-renowned swim coach, and coach in the Enhanced Games — joins me to reveal the uncomfortable truths about elite performance. From why “working harder” is the most dangerous advice in sports, to how recovery, self-belief, and even delusional confidence separate good athletes from great ones, this conversation will change how you think about success. In this episode, we discuss: - How comparison can unlock — or destroy — human potential - The dangerous myth of “just work harder” - How recovery became the real key to elite performance - The mindset shift that turns fear into Olympic gold What does it really take to push human limits? Brett Hawke — Olympian, world-renowned swim coach, and coach in the Enhanced Games — joins me to reveal the uncomfortable truths about elite performance. From why “working harder” is the most dangerous advice in sports, to how recovery, self-belief, and even delusional confidence separate good athletes from great ones, this conversation will change how you think about success. In this episode, we discuss: - How comparison can unlock — or destroy — human potential - The dangerous myth of “just work harder” - How recovery became the real key to elite performance - The mindset shift that turns fear into Olympic gold the victory degree, enhanced games, victory degree, enhanced, nik atanackovic, michael phelps, brett hawke, nik, olympics, olympian false full 75 2cea4cf1-5c2d-4cdf-af8f-d9eca7476304 The Untold Story of the First Legally Blind Division 1 Athlete | Aaron Golub In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, I sit down with Aaron Golub, the first legally blind Division I football player, to talk about his inspiring journey from being picked last in childhood sports to playing at Tulane University and becoming an NFL free agent. Aaron opens up about the adversity he faced, the lessons he’s learned, and why he believes anything is possible with the right mindset, hard work, and persistence.

What we cover in this conversation:

- Overcoming adversity: how Aaron’s blindness became the driving force behind his discipline, grit, and success

- The value of failure: why rejection and loss can be the greatest teachers in sports, business, and life

- Leadership and resilience: lessons from football, public speaking, and entrepreneurship

- Self-belief and mindset: reframing fear, handling judgment, and setting goals with long-term horizons

Connect with Aaron:

Twitter: x.com/aaronjgolub

LinkedIn: instagram.com/aaronjgolub/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Tue, 9 Sep 2025 22:38:23 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/the-first-legally-blind-d1-football-player-explains-how-he-beat-the-odds-aaron-golub-_RNfDody In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, I sit down with Aaron Golub, the first legally blind Division I football player, to talk about his inspiring journey from being picked last in childhood sports to playing at Tulane University and becoming an NFL free agent. Aaron opens up about the adversity he faced, the lessons he’s learned, and why he believes anything is possible with the right mindset, hard work, and persistence.

What we cover in this conversation:

- Overcoming adversity: how Aaron’s blindness became the driving force behind his discipline, grit, and success

- The value of failure: why rejection and loss can be the greatest teachers in sports, business, and life

- Leadership and resilience: lessons from football, public speaking, and entrepreneurship

- Self-belief and mindset: reframing fear, handling judgment, and setting goals with long-term horizons

Connect with Aaron:

Twitter: x.com/aaronjgolub

LinkedIn: instagram.com/aaronjgolub/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> The Untold Story of the First Legally Blind Division 1 Athlete | Aaron Golub Nik Atanackovic 01:10:28 In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, I sit down with Aaron Golub, the first legally blind Division I football player, to talk about his inspiring journey from being picked last in childhood sports to playing at Tulane University and becoming an NFL free agent. Aaron opens up about the adversity he faced, the lessons he’s learned, and why he believes anything is possible with the right mindset, hard work, and persistence. What we cover in this conversation: - Overcoming adversity: how Aaron’s blindness became the driving force behind his discipline, grit, and success - The value of failure: why rejection and loss can be the greatest teachers in sports, business, and life - Leadership and resilience: lessons from football, public speaking, and entrepreneurship - Self-belief and mindset: reframing fear, handling judgment, and setting goals with long-term horizons In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, I sit down with Aaron Golub, the first legally blind Division I football player, to talk about his inspiring journey from being picked last in childhood sports to playing at Tulane University and becoming an NFL free agent. Aaron opens up about the adversity he faced, the lessons he’s learned, and why he believes anything is possible with the right mindset, hard work, and persistence. What we cover in this conversation: - Overcoming adversity: how Aaron’s blindness became the driving force behind his discipline, grit, and success - The value of failure: why rejection and loss can be the greatest teachers in sports, business, and life - Leadership and resilience: lessons from football, public speaking, and entrepreneurship - Self-belief and mindset: reframing fear, handling judgment, and setting goals with long-term horizons aaron golub, the victory degree, victory degree, division 1 football, nik atanackovic, blind, nik, college football false full 74 906944ca-c6ae-4167-aa15-8ec3d663a0dc Preston Rutherford On: Building Chubbies, $100M Exit, & Why Success Never Feels Like You Think Preston Rutherford, co-founder of Chubbies, joins me to share the unfiltered truth about building a $100M brand, the struggles behind the success, and what he’s learned about entrepreneurship, mindset, and resilience.

In this conversation, we cover:

- How four Stanford friends turned a joke into a $100M brand

- The hardest moments building Chubbies and how they overcame them

- Why self-limiting beliefs stop most people from starting

- The balance between performance marketing and long-term brand building

- Preston’s new venture Marathon and what he’s focusing on today

Connect with Preston:

Twitter: x.com/PrestonRuther10

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/prestonr/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Tue, 2 Sep 2025 15:29:06 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/preston-rutherford-on-building-chubbies-100m-exit-why-success-never-feels-like-you-think-jrgYxtih Preston Rutherford, co-founder of Chubbies, joins me to share the unfiltered truth about building a $100M brand, the struggles behind the success, and what he’s learned about entrepreneurship, mindset, and resilience.

In this conversation, we cover:

- How four Stanford friends turned a joke into a $100M brand

- The hardest moments building Chubbies and how they overcame them

- Why self-limiting beliefs stop most people from starting

- The balance between performance marketing and long-term brand building

- Preston’s new venture Marathon and what he’s focusing on today

Connect with Preston:

Twitter: x.com/PrestonRuther10

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/prestonr/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Preston Rutherford On: Building Chubbies, $100M Exit, & Why Success Never Feels Like You Think Nik Atanackovic 01:13:50 Preston Rutherford, co-founder of Chubbies, joins me to share the unfiltered truth about building a $100M brand, the struggles behind the success, and what he’s learned about entrepreneurship, mindset, and resilience. In this conversation, we cover: - How four Stanford friends turned a joke into a $100M brand - The hardest moments building Chubbies and how they overcame them - Why self-limiting beliefs stop most people from starting - The balance between performance marketing and long-term brand building - Preston’s new venture Marathon and what he’s focusing on today Preston Rutherford, co-founder of Chubbies, joins me to share the unfiltered truth about building a $100M brand, the struggles behind the success, and what he’s learned about entrepreneurship, mindset, and resilience. In this conversation, we cover: - How four Stanford friends turned a joke into a $100M brand - The hardest moments building Chubbies and how they overcame them - Why self-limiting beliefs stop most people from starting - The balance between performance marketing and long-term brand building - Preston’s new venture Marathon and what he’s focusing on today the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, business, entrepreneurship, chubbies, nik, preston rutherford false full 73 d171f634-d329-41a8-940f-db4a32c55ed6 Justin Britt On: Super Bowl Heartbreak, Mental Health Battles, Pete Carroll, Marshawn Lynch & Walking Away From Football Former Seahawks center Justin Britt opens up like never before. From the highs of playing in the Super Bowl to the lowest moments of his career, he reveals the untold truths about football, mental health, and life after the NFL.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • The Super Bowl XLIX play that still haunts him
  • His battle with depression and walking away from the NFL
  • Pete Carroll’s leadership and why it changed his life
  • The truth about playing with Russell Wilson and Marshawn Lynch
  • How he found purpose again through running marathons

Connect with Justin:

TikTok: tiktok.com/@justinbritt.68

Instagram: instagram.com/justinbritt68

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Mon, 25 Aug 2025 21:36:18 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/justin-britt-on-super-bowl-heartbreak-mental-health-battles-pete-carroll-marshawn-lynch-walking-away-from-football-olvxOTxR Former Seahawks center Justin Britt opens up like never before. From the highs of playing in the Super Bowl to the lowest moments of his career, he reveals the untold truths about football, mental health, and life after the NFL.

In this episode, we discuss:

  • The Super Bowl XLIX play that still haunts him
  • His battle with depression and walking away from the NFL
  • Pete Carroll’s leadership and why it changed his life
  • The truth about playing with Russell Wilson and Marshawn Lynch
  • How he found purpose again through running marathons

Connect with Justin:

TikTok: tiktok.com/@justinbritt.68

Instagram: instagram.com/justinbritt68

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Justin Britt On: Super Bowl Heartbreak, Mental Health Battles, Pete Carroll, Marshawn Lynch & Walking Away From Football Nik Atanackovic 01:26:09 Former Seahawks center Justin Britt opens up like never before. From the highs of playing in the Super Bowl to the lowest moments of his career, he reveals the untold truths about football, mental health, and life after the NFL. In this episode, we discuss: - The Super Bowl XLIX play that still haunts him - His battle with depression and walking away from the NFL - Pete Carroll’s leadership and why it changed his life - The truth about playing with Russell Wilson and Marshawn Lynch - How he found purpose again through running marathons Former Seahawks center Justin Britt opens up like never before. From the highs of playing in the Super Bowl to the lowest moments of his career, he reveals the untold truths about football, mental health, and life after the NFL. In this episode, we discuss: - The Super Bowl XLIX play that still haunts him - His battle with depression and walking away from the NFL - Pete Carroll’s leadership and why it changed his life - The truth about playing with Russell Wilson and Marshawn Lynch - How he found purpose again through running marathons nfl, justin britt, the victory degree, victory degree, run, nik atanackovic, running, mental health, seattle seahawks, nik, justin false full 72 f1287927-5ea2-413d-b6c9-6a47649ad489 The Mindset That Took Christian Benford from 6th Round Pick to NFL Star From being overlooked and doubted to earning a $76M contract with the Buffalo Bills, Christian Benford’s story is a masterclass in resilience, faith, and relentless self-belief.

In this episode, we dive deep into:

- The tears, doubt, and sacrifices that fueled his journey

- Why regret hurts more than failure

- How faith gave him unshakable confidence

- The mindset shifts needed to go from high school to college to the NFL

- Why character development is more important than talent

- Balancing football, family, and faith without losing yourself

Christian opens up about the struggles behind the success, what it really means to “be you,” and how staying grounded in faith and love can transform everything. A real look at what it takes to succeed at the highest level, on and off the field.

Connect with Christian:

Website: christianbenford.com

Instagram: instagram.com/thetruecb_/

Buy Stylish Safari: bit.ly/4lzmogk

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Tue, 19 Aug 2025 20:35:07 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/christian-benford-cMTpbPZ6 From being overlooked and doubted to earning a $76M contract with the Buffalo Bills, Christian Benford’s story is a masterclass in resilience, faith, and relentless self-belief.

In this episode, we dive deep into:

- The tears, doubt, and sacrifices that fueled his journey

- Why regret hurts more than failure

- How faith gave him unshakable confidence

- The mindset shifts needed to go from high school to college to the NFL

- Why character development is more important than talent

- Balancing football, family, and faith without losing yourself

Christian opens up about the struggles behind the success, what it really means to “be you,” and how staying grounded in faith and love can transform everything. A real look at what it takes to succeed at the highest level, on and off the field.

Connect with Christian:

Website: christianbenford.com

Instagram: instagram.com/thetruecb_/

Buy Stylish Safari: bit.ly/4lzmogk

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> The Mindset That Took Christian Benford from 6th Round Pick to NFL Star Nik Atanackovic 00:49:17 From being overlooked and doubted to earning a $76M contract with the Buffalo Bills, Christian Benford’s story is a masterclass in resilience, faith, and relentless self-belief. In this episode, we dive deep into: - The tears, doubt, and sacrifices that fueled his journey - Why regret hurts more than failure - How faith gave him unshakable confidence - The mindset shifts needed to go from high school to college to the NFL - Why character development is more important than talent - Balancing football, family, and faith without losing yourself Christian opens up about the struggles behind the success, what it really means to “be you,” and how staying grounded in faith and love can transform everything. A real look at what it takes to succeed at the highest level, on and off the field. From being overlooked and doubted to earning a $76M contract with the Buffalo Bills, Christian Benford’s story is a masterclass in resilience, faith, and relentless self-belief. In this episode, we dive deep into: - The tears, doubt, and sacrifices that fueled his journey - Why regret hurts more than failure - How faith gave him unshakable confidence - The mindset shifts needed to go from high school to college to the NFL - Why character development is more important than talent - Balancing football, family, and faith without losing yourself Christian opens up about the struggles behind the success, what it really means to “be you,” and how staying grounded in faith and love can transform everything. A real look at what it takes to succeed at the highest level, on and off the field. christian benford, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, benford, nik, buffalo bills false full 71 46ee7360-6c6f-460c-906e-c87411c2f3cb The Untold Story of Chad Kelly’s Rise, Fall, and Redemption From high school phenom to “Mr. Irrelevant” in the NFL Draft, Chad Kelly’s journey has been anything but ordinary. In this conversation, the Grey Cup champion opens up about growing up in a legendary football family, the politics of the NFL, and the lessons he’s learned from both his triumphs and mistakes. Chad shares inside stories about Patrick Mahomes, Andrew Luck, and Aaron Donald, breaks down what really makes a great quarterback, and explains why he still believes he’s one of the top 32 quarterbacks in the world.

Topics:

  • Pressure of being Jim Kelly’s nephew and early QB development
  • How NFL politics impacted his chances in Denver and Indy
  • Overcoming ACL and wrist injuries to keep playing
  • Patrick Mahomes praising a legendary Ole Miss play
  • Aaron Donald telling him he should be starting in the NFL

Connect with Chad:

Twitter: x.com/RocketmanKelly

Instagram: instagram.com/ckelly_6/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Mon, 11 Aug 2025 21:10:46 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/chad-EddkbCLi From high school phenom to “Mr. Irrelevant” in the NFL Draft, Chad Kelly’s journey has been anything but ordinary. In this conversation, the Grey Cup champion opens up about growing up in a legendary football family, the politics of the NFL, and the lessons he’s learned from both his triumphs and mistakes. Chad shares inside stories about Patrick Mahomes, Andrew Luck, and Aaron Donald, breaks down what really makes a great quarterback, and explains why he still believes he’s one of the top 32 quarterbacks in the world.

Topics:

  • Pressure of being Jim Kelly’s nephew and early QB development
  • How NFL politics impacted his chances in Denver and Indy
  • Overcoming ACL and wrist injuries to keep playing
  • Patrick Mahomes praising a legendary Ole Miss play
  • Aaron Donald telling him he should be starting in the NFL

Connect with Chad:

Twitter: x.com/RocketmanKelly

Instagram: instagram.com/ckelly_6/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> The Untold Story of Chad Kelly’s Rise, Fall, and Redemption Nik Atanackovic 00:52:13 From high school phenom to “Mr. Irrelevant” in the NFL Draft, Chad Kelly’s journey has been anything but ordinary. In this conversation, the Grey Cup champion opens up about growing up in a legendary football family, the politics of the NFL, and the lessons he’s learned from both his triumphs and mistakes. Chad shares inside stories about Patrick Mahomes, Andrew Luck, and Aaron Donald, breaks down what really makes a great quarterback, and explains why he still believes he’s one of the top 32 quarterbacks in the world. From high school phenom to “Mr. Irrelevant” in the NFL Draft, Chad Kelly’s journey has been anything but ordinary. In this conversation, the Grey Cup champion opens up about growing up in a legendary football family, the politics of the NFL, and the lessons he’s learned from both his triumphs and mistakes. Chad shares inside stories about Patrick Mahomes, Andrew Luck, and Aaron Donald, breaks down what really makes a great quarterback, and explains why he still believes he’s one of the top 32 quarterbacks in the world. nfl, kelly, chad kelly, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, cfl, chad false full 70 d8a8582c-39db-4bfe-9058-895caeabc67a "The Secret to NFL Success No One Talks About" – Kyle Sloter on Mindset, Luck, and NFL Politics In this raw and revealing conversation, former NFL quarterback Kyle Sloter opens up about the harsh realities of professional football, from the euphoric highs of unexpected opportunities to the hidden politics behind team decisions. Kyle dives deep into his unconventional journey, his unique mindset fueled by proving doubters wrong, and the pivotal role that luck, preparation, and timing play in achieving success. Discover why being "too good" can sometimes hurt your career, how NFL teams manage controversy, and the true inner workings of a quarterback's mind during critical moments. Whether you're an NFL fan or simply fascinated by resilience, mindset, and the untold truths of pro sports, this conversation is one you don't want to miss.

Topics: 

  • Kyle Sloter shares his unconventional NFL journey, emphasizing how politics, timing, and luck influenced his career path.
  • He reveals surprising NFL politics, including being advised to deliberately perform worse to avoid controversy.
  • Sloter explains how visualization and a mindset driven by proving doubters wrong significantly shaped his success.
  • He highlights critical lessons learned from veteran quarterbacks on decision-making, preparation, and mental processing in the NFL.
  • Kyle discusses the hidden complexities of quarterback play, including the massive cognitive demands and unseen challenges at the professional level.

Connect with Kyle:

Twitter: x.com/KyleSloter

Instagram: instagram.com/kylesloter/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Tue, 5 Aug 2025 22:28:24 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/the-secret-to-nfl-success-no-one-talks-about-kyle-sloter-on-mindset-luck-and-nfl-politics-Ziq0U6XT In this raw and revealing conversation, former NFL quarterback Kyle Sloter opens up about the harsh realities of professional football, from the euphoric highs of unexpected opportunities to the hidden politics behind team decisions. Kyle dives deep into his unconventional journey, his unique mindset fueled by proving doubters wrong, and the pivotal role that luck, preparation, and timing play in achieving success. Discover why being "too good" can sometimes hurt your career, how NFL teams manage controversy, and the true inner workings of a quarterback's mind during critical moments. Whether you're an NFL fan or simply fascinated by resilience, mindset, and the untold truths of pro sports, this conversation is one you don't want to miss.

Topics: 

  • Kyle Sloter shares his unconventional NFL journey, emphasizing how politics, timing, and luck influenced his career path.
  • He reveals surprising NFL politics, including being advised to deliberately perform worse to avoid controversy.
  • Sloter explains how visualization and a mindset driven by proving doubters wrong significantly shaped his success.
  • He highlights critical lessons learned from veteran quarterbacks on decision-making, preparation, and mental processing in the NFL.
  • Kyle discusses the hidden complexities of quarterback play, including the massive cognitive demands and unseen challenges at the professional level.

Connect with Kyle:

Twitter: x.com/KyleSloter

Instagram: instagram.com/kylesloter/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> "The Secret to NFL Success No One Talks About" – Kyle Sloter on Mindset, Luck, and NFL Politics Nik Atanackovic 01:34:00 In this raw and revealing conversation, former NFL quarterback Kyle Sloter opens up about the harsh realities of professional football—from the euphoric highs of unexpected opportunities to the hidden politics behind team decisions. Kyle dives deep into his unconventional journey, his unique mindset fueled by proving doubters wrong, and the pivotal role that luck, preparation, and timing play in achieving success. Discover why being "too good" can sometimes hurt your career, how NFL teams manage controversy, and the true inner workings of a quarterback's mind during critical moments. Whether you're an NFL fan or simply fascinated by resilience, mindset, and the untold truths of pro sports, this conversation is one you don't want to miss. In this raw and revealing conversation, former NFL quarterback Kyle Sloter opens up about the harsh realities of professional football—from the euphoric highs of unexpected opportunities to the hidden politics behind team decisions. Kyle dives deep into his unconventional journey, his unique mindset fueled by proving doubters wrong, and the pivotal role that luck, preparation, and timing play in achieving success. Discover why being "too good" can sometimes hurt your career, how NFL teams manage controversy, and the true inner workings of a quarterback's mind during critical moments. Whether you're an NFL fan or simply fascinated by resilience, mindset, and the untold truths of pro sports, this conversation is one you don't want to miss. nfl, the victory degree, victory degree, kyle sloter, quarterback, nik atanackovic, nik, sloter false full 69 71189547-83ac-4d30-aed8-f58f0b89559f How Naval Ravikant Thinks About Life, Success, and Happiness | Eric Jorgenson Eric Jorgenson — author of The Almanack of Naval Ravikant — joins me for a deep conversation on ideas, growth, self-belief, and what it really takes to create lasting work. We talk about how to avoid audience capture, the difference between finite and infinite games, the power of cliche advice, and what it means to build something authentic. We also explore podcasting, social media, dating, and the quiet years of creative obscurity that often come before success.

If you’re a creator, thinker, or someone searching for clarity in a noisy world, this one’s for you.

Topics:

• Be a collector of great ideas. Share what’s useful, not just what’s original
• Don’t chase virality. Audience capture kills creativity
• Cliché advice like "work hard" and "be consistent" is true. It’s just hard to follow
• Success usually means years of obscurity first. Embrace the long game
• Pick the right game. Infinite games are better than finite wins

Connect with Eric:

Twitter: x.com/EricJorgenson

Website: ejorgenson.com/

Buy "The Almanack of Naval Ravikant": amzn.to/46wEege

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Mon, 28 Jul 2025 23:39:37 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/how-naval-ravikant-thinks-about-life-success-and-happiness-eric-jorgenson-h3mV_Ita Eric Jorgenson — author of The Almanack of Naval Ravikant — joins me for a deep conversation on ideas, growth, self-belief, and what it really takes to create lasting work. We talk about how to avoid audience capture, the difference between finite and infinite games, the power of cliche advice, and what it means to build something authentic. We also explore podcasting, social media, dating, and the quiet years of creative obscurity that often come before success.

If you’re a creator, thinker, or someone searching for clarity in a noisy world, this one’s for you.

Topics:

• Be a collector of great ideas. Share what’s useful, not just what’s original
• Don’t chase virality. Audience capture kills creativity
• Cliché advice like "work hard" and "be consistent" is true. It’s just hard to follow
• Success usually means years of obscurity first. Embrace the long game
• Pick the right game. Infinite games are better than finite wins

Connect with Eric:

Twitter: x.com/EricJorgenson

Website: ejorgenson.com/

Buy "The Almanack of Naval Ravikant": amzn.to/46wEege

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> How Naval Ravikant Thinks About Life, Success, and Happiness | Eric Jorgenson Nik Atanackovic 01:32:42 Eric Jorgenson — author of The Almanack of Naval Ravikant — joins me for a deep conversation on ideas, growth, self-belief, and what it really takes to create lasting work. We talk about how to avoid audience capture, the difference between finite and infinite games, the power of cliche advice, and what it means to build something authentic. We also explore podcasting, social media, dating, and the quiet years of creative obscurity that often come before success. If you’re a creator, thinker, or someone searching for clarity in a noisy world, this one’s for you. Eric Jorgenson — author of The Almanack of Naval Ravikant — joins me for a deep conversation on ideas, growth, self-belief, and what it really takes to create lasting work. We talk about how to avoid audience capture, the difference between finite and infinite games, the power of cliche advice, and what it means to build something authentic. We also explore podcasting, social media, dating, and the quiet years of creative obscurity that often come before success. If you’re a creator, thinker, or someone searching for clarity in a noisy world, this one’s for you. naval, the victory degree, victory degree, naval ravikant, nik atanackovic, eric jorgenson, nik, victory false full 68 adba42ba-c4cb-4224-bd98-79a261d5b71b Meet The Man Building The Enhanced Games - Where Steroid Use Is Legal What if the future of sports isn’t about fairness but about becoming superhuman?

Dr. Aron D’Souza is leading the charge with the Enhanced Games, a radical new competition where performance-enhancing drugs aren’t banned, they’re embraced. But this episode goes way beyond sports.

We dive deep into:

- Why Aron believes biology should never limit human potential

- His formula for achieving outrageous success with limited resources

- Why he tracks every gram of protein, fiber, and carb he consumes

- How to write a life plan that bends time in your favor

- The moral case for human enhancement and why he says it's inevitable

- Why he believes history will remember his name

If you’ve ever felt stuck, small, or like your goals are impossible, this conversation will challenge your beliefs and maybe even rewrite your future.

Connect with Aron:

Enhanced: enhanced.com/

Instagram: instagram.com/aronpingdsouza/?hl=en

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Mon, 21 Jul 2025 22:48:30 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/meet-the-man-behind-the-enhanced-games-the-athletic-competition-where-steroid-use-is-legal-IKodUtkI What if the future of sports isn’t about fairness but about becoming superhuman?

Dr. Aron D’Souza is leading the charge with the Enhanced Games, a radical new competition where performance-enhancing drugs aren’t banned, they’re embraced. But this episode goes way beyond sports.

We dive deep into:

- Why Aron believes biology should never limit human potential

- His formula for achieving outrageous success with limited resources

- Why he tracks every gram of protein, fiber, and carb he consumes

- How to write a life plan that bends time in your favor

- The moral case for human enhancement and why he says it's inevitable

- Why he believes history will remember his name

If you’ve ever felt stuck, small, or like your goals are impossible, this conversation will challenge your beliefs and maybe even rewrite your future.

Connect with Aron:

Enhanced: enhanced.com/

Instagram: instagram.com/aronpingdsouza/?hl=en

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Meet The Man Building The Enhanced Games - Where Steroid Use Is Legal Nik Atanackovic 00:50:17 What if the future of sports isn’t about fairness but about becoming superhuman? Dr. Aron D’Souza is leading the charge with the Enhanced Games, a radical new competition where performance-enhancing drugs aren’t banned, they’re embraced. But this episode goes way beyond sports. We dive deep into: - Why Aron believes biology should never limit human potential - His formula for achieving outrageous success with limited resources - Why he tracks every gram of protein, fiber, and carb he consumes - How to write a life plan that bends time in your favor - The moral case for human enhancement and why he says it's inevitable - Why he believes history will remember his name If you’ve ever felt stuck, small, or like your goals are impossible, this conversation will challenge your beliefs and maybe even rewrite your future. What if the future of sports isn’t about fairness but about becoming superhuman? Dr. Aron D’Souza is leading the charge with the Enhanced Games, a radical new competition where performance-enhancing drugs aren’t banned, they’re embraced. But this episode goes way beyond sports. We dive deep into: - Why Aron believes biology should never limit human potential - His formula for achieving outrageous success with limited resources - Why he tracks every gram of protein, fiber, and carb he consumes - How to write a life plan that bends time in your favor - The moral case for human enhancement and why he says it's inevitable - Why he believes history will remember his name If you’ve ever felt stuck, small, or like your goals are impossible, this conversation will challenge your beliefs and maybe even rewrite your future. the enhanced games, the victory degree, aron d'souza, enhanced games, victory degree, enhanced, nik atanackovic, athletes, athlete, nik, olympics, olympian false full 67 a4aa121b-39b7-4ff5-97c1-fa29c9f99b47 "I Used To Play Basketball With An Orange!" - The Untold Story of an NBA Underdog Who Beat All Odds In this powerful episode, former NBA player Alex Acker opens up about his incredible journey from growing up in Compton with almost nothing—literally playing basketball with an orange—to reaching the NBA and beyond. He shares raw stories of his upbringing, the hunger that fueled him, and how his faith and family kept him grounded through life’s toughest moments.

Alex talks about:

What it really takes to make it to the NBA—and why talent alone isn’t enough

Getting discovered at a random Pepperdine pickup game

Practicing with legends like Reggie Miller, Chauncey Billups, and Kevin Garnett

How European basketball challenged and matured him

His honest take on pressure, confidence, and self-belief

Why most pro athletes go broke—and how he’s helping change that with his company Amongst Elite Capital

If you’ve ever chased a dream, doubted yourself, or wondered what separates the 1% who make it from those who don’t—this episode will hit you hard.

Connect with Alex:

Twitter: x.com/ackright

Instagram: instagram.com/ackright/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Tue, 15 Jul 2025 20:01:42 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/alex-acker-nq4vmpGn In this powerful episode, former NBA player Alex Acker opens up about his incredible journey from growing up in Compton with almost nothing—literally playing basketball with an orange—to reaching the NBA and beyond. He shares raw stories of his upbringing, the hunger that fueled him, and how his faith and family kept him grounded through life’s toughest moments.

Alex talks about:

What it really takes to make it to the NBA—and why talent alone isn’t enough

Getting discovered at a random Pepperdine pickup game

Practicing with legends like Reggie Miller, Chauncey Billups, and Kevin Garnett

How European basketball challenged and matured him

His honest take on pressure, confidence, and self-belief

Why most pro athletes go broke—and how he’s helping change that with his company Amongst Elite Capital

If you’ve ever chased a dream, doubted yourself, or wondered what separates the 1% who make it from those who don’t—this episode will hit you hard.

Connect with Alex:

Twitter: x.com/ackright

Instagram: instagram.com/ackright/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> "I Used To Play Basketball With An Orange!" - The Untold Story of an NBA Underdog Who Beat All Odds Nik Atanackovic 01:23:10 In this powerful episode, former NBA player Alex Acker opens up about his incredible journey from growing up in Compton with almost nothing—literally playing basketball with an orange—to reaching the NBA and beyond. He shares raw stories of his upbringing, the hunger that fueled him, and how his faith and family kept him grounded through life’s toughest moments. Alex talks about: What it really takes to make it to the NBA—and why talent alone isn’t enough Getting discovered at a random Pepperdine pickup game Practicing with legends like Reggie Miller, Chauncey Billups, and Kevin Garnett How European basketball challenged and matured him His honest take on pressure, confidence, and self-belief Why most pro athletes go broke—and how he’s helping change that with his company Amongst Elite Capital If you’ve ever chased a dream, doubted yourself, or wondered what separates the 1% who make it from those who don’t—this episode will hit you hard. In this powerful episode, former NBA player Alex Acker opens up about his incredible journey from growing up in Compton with almost nothing—literally playing basketball with an orange—to reaching the NBA and beyond. He shares raw stories of his upbringing, the hunger that fueled him, and how his faith and family kept him grounded through life’s toughest moments. Alex talks about: What it really takes to make it to the NBA—and why talent alone isn’t enough Getting discovered at a random Pepperdine pickup game Practicing with legends like Reggie Miller, Chauncey Billups, and Kevin Garnett How European basketball challenged and matured him His honest take on pressure, confidence, and self-belief Why most pro athletes go broke—and how he’s helping change that with his company Amongst Elite Capital If you’ve ever chased a dream, doubted yourself, or wondered what separates the 1% who make it from those who don’t—this episode will hit you hard. the victory degree, alex acker, victory degree, nik atanackovic, reggie miller, nik, acker false full 66 ed349d1b-44c7-4829-8b14-435755f11b50 He Was the #1 QB in the Nation… Then Everything Changed | Max Browne Max Browne shares his journey from top QB recruit to navigating the highs and lows of college football. He opens up about the pressure of the “bust” label, the role of luck and environment in success, and how NIL and social media are reshaping the game. Through it all, he highlights the power of mindset, resilience, and learning from failure.

Connect with Max:

Twitter: x.com/MaxBrowne4

Instagram: instagram.com/maxbrowne/

YouTube: youtube.com/@maxbrowne4

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Mon, 7 Jul 2025 23:19:08 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/max-browne-fT8lSEzA Max Browne shares his journey from top QB recruit to navigating the highs and lows of college football. He opens up about the pressure of the “bust” label, the role of luck and environment in success, and how NIL and social media are reshaping the game. Through it all, he highlights the power of mindset, resilience, and learning from failure.

Connect with Max:

Twitter: x.com/MaxBrowne4

Instagram: instagram.com/maxbrowne/

YouTube: youtube.com/@maxbrowne4

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> He Was the #1 QB in the Nation… Then Everything Changed | Max Browne Nik Atanackovic 01:15:14 Max Browne shares his journey from top QB recruit to navigating the highs and lows of college football. He opens up about the pressure of the “bust” label, the role of luck and environment in success, and how NIL and social media are reshaping the game. Through it all, he highlights the power of mindset, resilience, and learning from failure. Max Browne shares his journey from top QB recruit to navigating the highs and lows of college football. He opens up about the pressure of the “bust” label, the role of luck and environment in success, and how NIL and social media are reshaping the game. Through it all, he highlights the power of mindset, resilience, and learning from failure. the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, max browne false full 65 40a9e4a8-9981-46d4-b5f1-1e55b8b6a959 From Playing Under Nick Saban To First Round MLB Draft Pick: This is The Untold Story of Josh Booty Josh Booty has lived a life most athletes only dream of—drafted in both the NFL and MLB, mentored by legends, and tested by the toughest environments in sports. In this episode, he opens up about the raw realities behind the headlines: the pressure of being a two-sport phenom, what it really takes to win in a place like Cleveland, and the mindset Nick Saban demands from his players. Josh shares powerful reflections on self-discipline, youth sports culture, and how icons like LeBron James shaped his worldview. This conversation is packed with hard-earned wisdom on fearlessness, competition, and becoming your best self on and off the field.

Connect with Josh:

Twitter: x.com/JoshBooty10

Instagram: instagram.com/joshbooty10/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Tue, 1 Jul 2025 00:03:51 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/josh-booty-FdBNVeYd Josh Booty has lived a life most athletes only dream of—drafted in both the NFL and MLB, mentored by legends, and tested by the toughest environments in sports. In this episode, he opens up about the raw realities behind the headlines: the pressure of being a two-sport phenom, what it really takes to win in a place like Cleveland, and the mindset Nick Saban demands from his players. Josh shares powerful reflections on self-discipline, youth sports culture, and how icons like LeBron James shaped his worldview. This conversation is packed with hard-earned wisdom on fearlessness, competition, and becoming your best self on and off the field.

Connect with Josh:

Twitter: x.com/JoshBooty10

Instagram: instagram.com/joshbooty10/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> From Playing Under Nick Saban To First Round MLB Draft Pick: This is The Untold Story of Josh Booty Nik Atanackovic 01:18:52 Josh Booty has lived a life most athletes only dream of—drafted in both the NFL and MLB, mentored by legends, and tested by the toughest environments in sports. In this episode, he opens up about the raw realities behind the headlines: the pressure of being a two-sport phenom, what it really takes to win in a place like Cleveland, and the mindset Nick Saban demands from his players. Josh shares powerful reflections on self-discipline, youth sports culture, and how icons like LeBron James shaped his worldview. This conversation is packed with hard-earned wisdom on fearlessness, competition, and becoming your best self on and off the field. Josh Booty has lived a life most athletes only dream of—drafted in both the NFL and MLB, mentored by legends, and tested by the toughest environments in sports. In this episode, he opens up about the raw realities behind the headlines: the pressure of being a two-sport phenom, what it really takes to win in a place like Cleveland, and the mindset Nick Saban demands from his players. Josh shares powerful reflections on self-discipline, youth sports culture, and how icons like LeBron James shaped his worldview. This conversation is packed with hard-earned wisdom on fearlessness, competition, and becoming your best self on and off the field. the victory degree, victory degree, nick saban, nik atanackovic, josh booty, nik false full 64 f4277651-bdfc-41c0-a00c-67a60be6ad65 Quentin Lake On: Sean McVay, Matthew Stafford, Self-Belief, 49ers Rivalry + Why Rams Are UNSTOPPABLE In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Los Angeles Rams safety Quentin Lake for a raw and insightful conversation. From his grind at UCLA to proving himself as a late-round NFL draft pick, Lake opens up about the mindset it takes to survive and thrive in the league. They dive into the lessons he learned from his NFL father, the power of discipline and daily routine, and what it really means to lead as a team captain. Quentin also shares his thoughts on the Rams' rising offense, navigating pressure, and how staying grounded fuels long-term success.

Connect with Quentin:

Twitter: x.com/quentin_lake

Instagram: instagram.com/qlakee/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCZi8A-c7093QXh7AQgwvJ5w

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Tue, 24 Jun 2025 21:31:21 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/quentin-lake-Bi3WoOVW In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Los Angeles Rams safety Quentin Lake for a raw and insightful conversation. From his grind at UCLA to proving himself as a late-round NFL draft pick, Lake opens up about the mindset it takes to survive and thrive in the league. They dive into the lessons he learned from his NFL father, the power of discipline and daily routine, and what it really means to lead as a team captain. Quentin also shares his thoughts on the Rams' rising offense, navigating pressure, and how staying grounded fuels long-term success.

Connect with Quentin:

Twitter: x.com/quentin_lake

Instagram: instagram.com/qlakee/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCZi8A-c7093QXh7AQgwvJ5w

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Quentin Lake On: Sean McVay, Matthew Stafford, Self-Belief, 49ers Rivalry + Why Rams Are UNSTOPPABLE Nik Atanackovic 01:14:29 In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Los Angeles Rams safety Quentin Lake for a raw and insightful conversation. From his grind at UCLA to proving himself as a late-round NFL draft pick, Lake opens up about the mindset it takes to survive and thrive in the league. They dive into the lessons he learned from his NFL father, the power of discipline and daily routine, and what it really means to lead as a team captain. Quentin also shares his thoughts on the Rams' rising offense, navigating pressure, and how staying grounded fuels long-term success. In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Los Angeles Rams safety Quentin Lake for a raw and insightful conversation. From his grind at UCLA to proving himself as a late-round NFL draft pick, Lake opens up about the mindset it takes to survive and thrive in the league. They dive into the lessons he learned from his NFL father, the power of discipline and daily routine, and what it really means to lead as a team captain. Quentin also shares his thoughts on the Rams' rising offense, navigating pressure, and how staying grounded fuels long-term success. quentin lake, rams, the victory degree, victory degree, los angeles rams false full 63 6f2e0664-f50d-4b29-bbad-a41ef2cea9b1 Cesar Ruiz On: Childhood Tragedy, IMG Academy, Drew Brees, Death Threats & Jameis Winston In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, Cesar Ruiz shares his journey from playing football in his backyard to becoming a first-round pick in the NFL. He discusses the importance of enjoying the game, overcoming pressure, and the impact of family and loss on his career. Ruiz reflects on his experiences at IMG Academy and the University of Michigan, emphasizing the significance of routine and discipline in achieving success. He also opens up about the challenges of being an NFL player, including the expectations and sacrifices that come with the territory, and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset.

Connect with Cesar:

Instagram: instagram.com/ceesruiz/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCZi8A-c7093QXh7AQgwvJ5w

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Mon, 16 Jun 2025 20:35:25 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/cesar-ruiz-JjLA9sP2 In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, Cesar Ruiz shares his journey from playing football in his backyard to becoming a first-round pick in the NFL. He discusses the importance of enjoying the game, overcoming pressure, and the impact of family and loss on his career. Ruiz reflects on his experiences at IMG Academy and the University of Michigan, emphasizing the significance of routine and discipline in achieving success. He also opens up about the challenges of being an NFL player, including the expectations and sacrifices that come with the territory, and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset.

Connect with Cesar:

Instagram: instagram.com/ceesruiz/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCZi8A-c7093QXh7AQgwvJ5w

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Cesar Ruiz On: Childhood Tragedy, IMG Academy, Drew Brees, Death Threats & Jameis Winston Nik Atanackovic 01:07:33 In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, Cesar Ruiz shares his journey from playing football in his backyard to becoming a first-round pick in the NFL. He discusses the importance of enjoying the game, overcoming pressure, and the impact of family and loss on his career. Ruiz reflects on his experiences at IMG Academy and the University of Michigan, emphasizing the significance of routine and discipline in achieving success. He also opens up about the challenges of being an NFL player, including the expectations and sacrifices that come with the territory, and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, Cesar Ruiz shares his journey from playing football in his backyard to becoming a first-round pick in the NFL. He discusses the importance of enjoying the game, overcoming pressure, and the impact of family and loss on his career. Ruiz reflects on his experiences at IMG Academy and the University of Michigan, emphasizing the significance of routine and discipline in achieving success. He also opens up about the challenges of being an NFL player, including the expectations and sacrifices that come with the territory, and the importance of maintaining a positive mindset. cesar ruiz, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic false full 62 499b9c1f-7a3a-472d-9c9d-ce855b0e59a5 Marcel Reece On Tough Childhood, Raiders' Culture, JaMarcus Russell, Tom Brady + NFL Career What does it really take to lead—in football, business, and life?

In this raw and insightful conversation, former NFL fullback Marcel Reece opens up about the sacrifices behind success, the power of leadership, and the emotional cost of chasing greatness. He shares hard-earned lessons from the locker room to the boardroom, reflects on loss, resilience, and the human side of athletes, and reveals why proving your supporters right matters more than silencing your critics.

From the culture of the Raiders to the misunderstood brilliance of Tom Brady, Marcel delivers a powerful reminder: greatness isn’t just about what you win—it’s about who you become in the process.

Connect with Marcel:

Twitter: x.com/Celreece45

Instagram: instagram.com/celreece45/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCZi8A-c7093QXh7AQgwvJ5w

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Mon, 9 Jun 2025 23:22:46 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/marcel-reece-aCRhnY_e What does it really take to lead—in football, business, and life?

In this raw and insightful conversation, former NFL fullback Marcel Reece opens up about the sacrifices behind success, the power of leadership, and the emotional cost of chasing greatness. He shares hard-earned lessons from the locker room to the boardroom, reflects on loss, resilience, and the human side of athletes, and reveals why proving your supporters right matters more than silencing your critics.

From the culture of the Raiders to the misunderstood brilliance of Tom Brady, Marcel delivers a powerful reminder: greatness isn’t just about what you win—it’s about who you become in the process.

Connect with Marcel:

Twitter: x.com/Celreece45

Instagram: instagram.com/celreece45/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCZi8A-c7093QXh7AQgwvJ5w

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Marcel Reece On Tough Childhood, Raiders' Culture, JaMarcus Russell, Tom Brady + NFL Career Nik Atanackovic 01:31:19 What does it really take to lead—in football, business, and life? In this raw and insightful conversation, former NFL fullback Marcel Reece opens up about the sacrifices behind success, the power of leadership, and the emotional cost of chasing greatness. He shares hard-earned lessons from the locker room to the boardroom, reflects on loss, resilience, and the human side of athletes, and reveals why proving your supporters right matters more than silencing your critics. From the culture of the Raiders to the misunderstood brilliance of Tom Brady, Marcel delivers a powerful reminder: greatness isn’t just about what you win—it’s about who you become in the process What does it really take to lead—in football, business, and life? In this raw and insightful conversation, former NFL fullback Marcel Reece opens up about the sacrifices behind success, the power of leadership, and the emotional cost of chasing greatness. He shares hard-earned lessons from the locker room to the boardroom, reflects on loss, resilience, and the human side of athletes, and reveals why proving your supporters right matters more than silencing your critics. From the culture of the Raiders to the misunderstood brilliance of Tom Brady, Marcel delivers a powerful reminder: greatness isn’t just about what you win—it’s about who you become in the process marcel reece, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic false full 61 7f059086-6acd-473a-a860-e40b3ab59b4b Cassius Marsh Tells ALL: Bill Belichick, Overcoming Injuries, NFL Politics, Trading Cards & Marshawn Lynch In this episode, Cassius Marsh takes us inside the NFL—from childhood dreams to the grind of pro football. He opens up about overcoming injuries, learning from the Super Bowl with the Seahawks, and the politics of the draft. Marsh also dives into team culture, coaching styles, and the mental toughness needed to navigate constant change. Now an entrepreneur in the trading card world, he shares how football shaped his mindset, the role of family in his journey, and why Marshawn Lynch left a lasting impact.

Connect with Cassius:

Twitter: x.com/KingCash_7191

Instagram: instagram.com/cassiusmarsh/

Cash Cards Unlimited: cashcardsunlimited.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCZi8A-c7093QXh7AQgwvJ5w

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Mon, 2 Jun 2025 23:44:08 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/cassius-marsh-ccxvtTgd In this episode, Cassius Marsh takes us inside the NFL—from childhood dreams to the grind of pro football. He opens up about overcoming injuries, learning from the Super Bowl with the Seahawks, and the politics of the draft. Marsh also dives into team culture, coaching styles, and the mental toughness needed to navigate constant change. Now an entrepreneur in the trading card world, he shares how football shaped his mindset, the role of family in his journey, and why Marshawn Lynch left a lasting impact.

Connect with Cassius:

Twitter: x.com/KingCash_7191

Instagram: instagram.com/cassiusmarsh/

Cash Cards Unlimited: cashcardsunlimited.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCZi8A-c7093QXh7AQgwvJ5w

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Cassius Marsh Tells ALL: Bill Belichick, Overcoming Injuries, NFL Politics, Trading Cards & Marshawn Lynch Nik Atanackovic 01:11:02 In this episode, Cassius Marsh takes us inside the NFL—from childhood dreams to the grind of pro football. He opens up about overcoming injuries, learning from the Super Bowl with the Seahawks, and the politics of the draft. Marsh also dives into team culture, coaching styles, and the mental toughness needed to navigate constant change. Now an entrepreneur in the trading card world, he shares how football shaped his mindset, the role of family in his journey, and why Marshawn Lynch left a lasting impact. In this episode, Cassius Marsh takes us inside the NFL—from childhood dreams to the grind of pro football. He opens up about overcoming injuries, learning from the Super Bowl with the Seahawks, and the politics of the draft. Marsh also dives into team culture, coaching styles, and the mental toughness needed to navigate constant change. Now an entrepreneur in the trading card world, he shares how football shaped his mindset, the role of family in his journey, and why Marshawn Lynch left a lasting impact. the victory degree, cassius, victory degree, nik atanackovic, cassius marsh, marsh, nik false full 60 05e654e6-7da1-4c29-8e14-4753a83093fb The Hidden Cost of Success: Confidence, Pain & the Psychology of Winning | Jon Giesbrecht What separates elite athletes from the rest? Mental performance coach Jon Giesbrecht breaks down the truth about mindset, resilience, and the hidden cost of success. In this episode, we dive into why self-talk matters, how suffering fuels growth, and why mental health doesn’t have to be complicated. You’ll learn how to build confidence, stay present under pressure, and develop the inner game that actually wins.

Connect with Jon:

Twitter: x.com/PlayFreeBball

Instagram: instagram.com/playfreebball/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCZi8A-c7093QXh7AQgwvJ5w

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> Mon, 26 May 2025 22:56:31 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/jon-g-owaFLj4X What separates elite athletes from the rest? Mental performance coach Jon Giesbrecht breaks down the truth about mindset, resilience, and the hidden cost of success. In this episode, we dive into why self-talk matters, how suffering fuels growth, and why mental health doesn’t have to be complicated. You’ll learn how to build confidence, stay present under pressure, and develop the inner game that actually wins.

Connect with Jon:

Twitter: x.com/PlayFreeBball

Instagram: instagram.com/playfreebball/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCZi8A-c7093QXh7AQgwvJ5w

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

]]> The Hidden Cost of Success: Confidence, Pain & the Psychology of Winning | Jon Giesbrecht Nik Atanackovic 01:09:12 What separates elite athletes from the rest? Mental performance coach Jon Giesbrecht breaks down the truth about mindset, resilience, and the hidden cost of success. In this episode, we dive into why self-talk matters, how suffering fuels growth, and why mental health doesn’t have to be complicated. You’ll learn how to build confidence, stay present under pressure, and develop the inner game that actually wins. What separates elite athletes from the rest? Mental performance coach Jon Giesbrecht breaks down the truth about mindset, resilience, and the hidden cost of success. In this episode, we dive into why self-talk matters, how suffering fuels growth, and why mental health doesn’t have to be complicated. You’ll learn how to build confidence, stay present under pressure, and develop the inner game that actually wins. jon giesbrecht, the victory degree, nik atanackovic, jon, athlete, mental health false full 59 9b0fe09f-edaf-492a-a706-c9de96eefaf7 The SHOCKING Truth About Success From a Private Equity Millionaire Turned Ultra Athlete | Gordo Byrn In this episode, Gordo Byrn shares his transformative journey from a thriving career in private equity to a life grounded in endurance sports, personal fulfillment, and emotional growth. He opens up about the internal struggles of making major life changes and how self-reflection, small daily improvements, and the ‘Thousand Day Rule’ helped him redefine success. Gordo discusses the mental and emotional demands of Ultraman racing, the importance of soft skills and emotional intelligence, and the lessons he’s learned from parenting and sport. His story is a roadmap for anyone seeking sustainable progress, deeper relationships, and a more meaningful life.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Gordo:

Twitter: x.com/feelthebyrn1

Instagram: instagram.com/feelthebyrn/

Time Article: truewealth.substack.com/p/whats-the-cost-in-time

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCZi8A-c7093QXh7AQgwvJ5w

]]> Mon, 12 May 2025 18:56:59 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/gordo-byrn-_QDRwZIH In this episode, Gordo Byrn shares his transformative journey from a thriving career in private equity to a life grounded in endurance sports, personal fulfillment, and emotional growth. He opens up about the internal struggles of making major life changes and how self-reflection, small daily improvements, and the ‘Thousand Day Rule’ helped him redefine success. Gordo discusses the mental and emotional demands of Ultraman racing, the importance of soft skills and emotional intelligence, and the lessons he’s learned from parenting and sport. His story is a roadmap for anyone seeking sustainable progress, deeper relationships, and a more meaningful life.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Gordo:

Twitter: x.com/feelthebyrn1

Instagram: instagram.com/feelthebyrn/

Time Article: truewealth.substack.com/p/whats-the-cost-in-time

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCZi8A-c7093QXh7AQgwvJ5w

]]> The SHOCKING Truth About Success From a Private Equity Millionaire Turned Ultra Athlete | Gordo Byrn Nik Atanackovic 01:20:28 In this episode, Gordo Byrn shares his transformative journey from a thriving career in private equity to a life grounded in endurance sports, personal fulfillment, and emotional growth. He opens up about the internal struggles of making major life changes and how self-reflection, small daily improvements, and the ‘Thousand Day Rule’ helped him redefine success. Gordo discusses the mental and emotional demands of Ultraman racing, the importance of soft skills and emotional intelligence, and the lessons he’s learned from parenting and sport. His story is a roadmap for anyone seeking sustainable progress, deeper relationships, and a more meaningful life. In this episode, Gordo Byrn shares his transformative journey from a thriving career in private equity to a life grounded in endurance sports, personal fulfillment, and emotional growth. He opens up about the internal struggles of making major life changes and how self-reflection, small daily improvements, and the ‘Thousand Day Rule’ helped him redefine success. Gordo discusses the mental and emotional demands of Ultraman racing, the importance of soft skills and emotional intelligence, and the lessons he’s learned from parenting and sport. His story is a roadmap for anyone seeking sustainable progress, deeper relationships, and a more meaningful life. endurance, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, private equity, gordo byrn false full 58 facf6e58-3ee0-48fa-9b4e-ac5b567df4b0 SHOCKING Mindset Tricks Drew Brees & Jordan Love Use—NFL Trainer Reveals All! | Todd Durkin In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Todd Durkin dives into why mindset is the ultimate game-changer—especially in sports. He tackles the battle against negative self-talk, the power of confidence and flow state, and how pressure and social media shape an athlete’s performance and identity. Drawing on years of coaching NFL stars (like Jordan Love, Drew Brees & more), Todd reveals the human stories behind the headlines, shares strategies for embracing discomfort and breaking mental barriers, and reflects on his own journey building lifelong bonds with elite performers. He also introduces his new book, Coaching Greatness, and outlines the vision behind ImpactX Performance, his franchise designed to foster growth and support for athletes and anyone striving to level up.

Ready to win the inside game? Your mindset is your ultimate power play.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Todd:

Twitter: x.com/ToddDurkin

Instagram: instagram.com/todddurkin/

Buy "Coaching Greatness": amzn.to/4iHWSUE

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCZi8A-c7093QXh7AQgwvJ5w

]]> Fri, 2 May 2025 23:41:28 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/todd-durkin-DWYF3bc9 In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Todd Durkin dives into why mindset is the ultimate game-changer—especially in sports. He tackles the battle against negative self-talk, the power of confidence and flow state, and how pressure and social media shape an athlete’s performance and identity. Drawing on years of coaching NFL stars (like Jordan Love, Drew Brees & more), Todd reveals the human stories behind the headlines, shares strategies for embracing discomfort and breaking mental barriers, and reflects on his own journey building lifelong bonds with elite performers. He also introduces his new book, Coaching Greatness, and outlines the vision behind ImpactX Performance, his franchise designed to foster growth and support for athletes and anyone striving to level up.

Ready to win the inside game? Your mindset is your ultimate power play.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Todd:

Twitter: x.com/ToddDurkin

Instagram: instagram.com/todddurkin/

Buy "Coaching Greatness": amzn.to/4iHWSUE

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCZi8A-c7093QXh7AQgwvJ5w

]]> SHOCKING Mindset Tricks Drew Brees & Jordan Love Use—NFL Trainer Reveals All! | Todd Durkin Nik Atanackovic 01:07:18 In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Todd Durkin dives into why mindset is the ultimate game-changer—especially in sports. He tackles the battle against negative self-talk, the power of confidence and flow state, and how pressure and social media shape an athlete’s performance and identity. Drawing on years of coaching NFL stars (like Jordan Love, Drew Brees & more), Todd reveals the human stories behind the headlines, shares strategies for embracing discomfort and breaking mental barriers, and reflects on his own journey building lifelong bonds with elite performers. He also introduces his new book, Coaching Greatness, and outlines the vision behind ImpactX Performance, his franchise designed to foster growth and support for athletes and anyone striving to level up. Ready to win the inside game? Your mindset is your ultimate power play. In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Todd Durkin dives into why mindset is the ultimate game-changer—especially in sports. He tackles the battle against negative self-talk, the power of confidence and flow state, and how pressure and social media shape an athlete’s performance and identity. Drawing on years of coaching NFL stars (like Jordan Love, Drew Brees & more), Todd reveals the human stories behind the headlines, shares strategies for embracing discomfort and breaking mental barriers, and reflects on his own journey building lifelong bonds with elite performers. He also introduces his new book, Coaching Greatness, and outlines the vision behind ImpactX Performance, his franchise designed to foster growth and support for athletes and anyone striving to level up. Ready to win the inside game? Your mindset is your ultimate power play. jordan love, the victory degree, nik atanackovic, todd durkin, nik, drew brees false full 57 1fe87ea6-867a-441d-80bb-e19661f82f34 Built Different: Inside the Mindset of Sports' Most Overlooked Stars | Tyler O'Shea In this conversation, Tyler O'Shea, founder of Joker Mag and author of The Underdog Mentality, joins Nik to explore the power of underdog stories in sports. From being cut from his middle school baseball team to building a platform that champions overlooked athletes, Tyler shares how self-belief, resilience, and storytelling fuel both personal growth and cultural impact. They dive into the traits that define successful underdogs, highlight figures like Michael Jordan, Bryce Harper, and Howie Roseman, and discuss the challenges creators face in staying focused and consistent. The result is a powerful reflection on adversity, motivation, and redefining success.

If you’ve ever felt underestimated, this one’s for you.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Tyler:

Twitter: x.com/OSheaSEO

Subscribe to The Joker Mag: newsletter.jokermag.com/subscribe/

Buy The Underdog Mentality: amzn.to/4it7lDt

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCZi8A-c7093QXh7AQgwvJ5w

]]> Tue, 22 Apr 2025 23:48:58 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/tyler-oshea-io21p2Wa In this conversation, Tyler O'Shea, founder of Joker Mag and author of The Underdog Mentality, joins Nik to explore the power of underdog stories in sports. From being cut from his middle school baseball team to building a platform that champions overlooked athletes, Tyler shares how self-belief, resilience, and storytelling fuel both personal growth and cultural impact. They dive into the traits that define successful underdogs, highlight figures like Michael Jordan, Bryce Harper, and Howie Roseman, and discuss the challenges creators face in staying focused and consistent. The result is a powerful reflection on adversity, motivation, and redefining success.

If you’ve ever felt underestimated, this one’s for you.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Tyler:

Twitter: x.com/OSheaSEO

Subscribe to The Joker Mag: newsletter.jokermag.com/subscribe/

Buy The Underdog Mentality: amzn.to/4it7lDt

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/

Twitter: x.com/victorywithnik

YouTube: youtube.com/channel/UCZi8A-c7093QXh7AQgwvJ5w

]]> Built Different: Inside the Mindset of Sports' Most Overlooked Stars | Tyler O'Shea Nik Atanackovic 01:02:26 In this conversation, Tyler O'Shea, founder of Joker Mag and author of The Underdog Mentality, joins Nik to explore the power of underdog stories in sports. From being cut from his middle school baseball team to building a platform that champions overlooked athletes, Tyler shares how self-belief, resilience, and storytelling fuel both personal growth and cultural impact. They dive into the traits that define successful underdogs, highlight figures like Michael Jordan, Bryce Harper, and Howie Roseman, and discuss the challenges creators face in staying focused and consistent. The result is a powerful reflection on adversity, motivation, and redefining success. If you’ve ever felt underestimated, this one’s for you. In this conversation, Tyler O'Shea, founder of Joker Mag and author of The Underdog Mentality, joins Nik to explore the power of underdog stories in sports. From being cut from his middle school baseball team to building a platform that champions overlooked athletes, Tyler shares how self-belief, resilience, and storytelling fuel both personal growth and cultural impact. They dive into the traits that define successful underdogs, highlight figures like Michael Jordan, Bryce Harper, and Howie Roseman, and discuss the challenges creators face in staying focused and consistent. The result is a powerful reflection on adversity, motivation, and redefining success. If you’ve ever felt underestimated, this one’s for you. underdog, the victory degree, victory degree, tyler o'shea, joker mag, nik atanackovic false full 56 2625ede4-9848-4197-af6c-31bcc7f37ee1 Hard Work Isn’t Enough: What High Performers Really Do Differently - Alan Stein In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, host Nik Atanackovic welcomes high-performance coach and speaker Alan Stein, Jr. They discuss Alan's journey from a passionate basketball player to a corporate keynote speaker, emphasizing the importance of finding joy in one's work, the significance of childhood excitement, and the concept of work-life harmony over balance. Alan shares insights on identifying personal strengths and the necessity of self-care, while also addressing the misconceptions surrounding the grind culture. Alan also touches on finding personal rhythm, the importance of hard work, embracing uncertainty, living in the present, overcoming mental obstacles, training confidence, and prioritizing quality over quantity in high performance. He emphasizes the need for individuals to define their own paths and metrics for success, while also acknowledging the challenges that come with uncertainty and the necessity of self-awareness.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Alan:

Twitter: x.com/AlanSteinJr

Instagram: instagram.com/alansteinjr/

Website: alansteinjr.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: x.com/nik_atan

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Fri, 11 Apr 2025 22:09:33 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/alan-stein-09iFbtI9 In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, host Nik Atanackovic welcomes high-performance coach and speaker Alan Stein, Jr. They discuss Alan's journey from a passionate basketball player to a corporate keynote speaker, emphasizing the importance of finding joy in one's work, the significance of childhood excitement, and the concept of work-life harmony over balance. Alan shares insights on identifying personal strengths and the necessity of self-care, while also addressing the misconceptions surrounding the grind culture. Alan also touches on finding personal rhythm, the importance of hard work, embracing uncertainty, living in the present, overcoming mental obstacles, training confidence, and prioritizing quality over quantity in high performance. He emphasizes the need for individuals to define their own paths and metrics for success, while also acknowledging the challenges that come with uncertainty and the necessity of self-awareness.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Alan:

Twitter: x.com/AlanSteinJr

Instagram: instagram.com/alansteinjr/

Website: alansteinjr.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: x.com/nik_atan

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Hard Work Isn’t Enough: What High Performers Really Do Differently - Alan Stein Nik Atanackovic 00:58:21 In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, host Nik Atanackovic welcomes high-performance coach and speaker Alan Stein, Jr. They discuss Alan's journey from a passionate basketball player to a corporate keynote speaker, emphasizing the importance of finding joy in one's work, the significance of childhood excitement, and the concept of work-life harmony over balance. Alan shares insights on identifying personal strengths and the necessity of self-care, while also addressing the misconceptions surrounding the grind culture. Alan also touches on finding personal rhythm, the importance of hard work, embracing uncertainty, living in the present, overcoming mental obstacles, training confidence, and prioritizing quality over quantity in high performance. He emphasizes the need for individuals to define their own paths and metrics for success, while also acknowledging the challenges that come with uncertainty and the necessity of self-awareness. In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, host Nik Atanackovic welcomes high-performance coach and speaker Alan Stein, Jr. They discuss Alan's journey from a passionate basketball player to a corporate keynote speaker, emphasizing the importance of finding joy in one's work, the significance of childhood excitement, and the concept of work-life harmony over balance. Alan shares insights on identifying personal strengths and the necessity of self-care, while also addressing the misconceptions surrounding the grind culture. Alan also touches on finding personal rhythm, the importance of hard work, embracing uncertainty, living in the present, overcoming mental obstacles, training confidence, and prioritizing quality over quantity in high performance. He emphasizes the need for individuals to define their own paths and metrics for success, while also acknowledging the challenges that come with uncertainty and the necessity of self-awareness. high performance, the victory degreev, victory degree, nik atanackovic, nik, alan stein false full 55 c4c7f8f6-be68-4f0e-ba0f-2bd1ff78d5aa Why Winning Starts in Your Mind – The Psychology of Achievement | Steve Magness In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, mental performance coach Steve Magness discusses the intricacies of high performance, focusing on the psychological aspects of choking and the clutch gene. He emphasizes the importance of understanding fear and its impact on performance, using LeBron James as a case study. The conversation also explores the balance between obsession and performance, particularly in the context of youth sports culture in America. He emphasizes the importance of finding balance in success and personal life, the culture of sacrifice in pursuit of success, and the need to embrace failure as a path to performance. The discussion also highlights the traits of high-performing athletes and the role of coaching in fostering a healthy competitive environment.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Steve:

Twitter: x.com/stevemagness

Instagram: instagram.com/stevemagness/

Website: stevemagness.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: x.com/nik_atan

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Mon, 31 Mar 2025 23:31:05 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/steve-magness-o9C5HHIh In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, mental performance coach Steve Magness discusses the intricacies of high performance, focusing on the psychological aspects of choking and the clutch gene. He emphasizes the importance of understanding fear and its impact on performance, using LeBron James as a case study. The conversation also explores the balance between obsession and performance, particularly in the context of youth sports culture in America. He emphasizes the importance of finding balance in success and personal life, the culture of sacrifice in pursuit of success, and the need to embrace failure as a path to performance. The discussion also highlights the traits of high-performing athletes and the role of coaching in fostering a healthy competitive environment.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Steve:

Twitter: x.com/stevemagness

Instagram: instagram.com/stevemagness/

Website: stevemagness.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: x.com/nik_atan

YouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Why Winning Starts in Your Mind – The Psychology of Achievement | Steve Magness Nik Atanackovic 01:05:38 In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, mental performance coach Steve Magness discusses the intricacies of high performance, focusing on the psychological aspects of choking and the clutch gene. He emphasizes the importance of understanding fear and its impact on performance, using LeBron James as a case study. The conversation also explores the balance between obsession and performance, particularly in the context of youth sports culture in America. He emphasizes the importance of finding balance in success and personal life, the culture of sacrifice in pursuit of success, and the need to embrace failure as a path to performance. The discussion also highlights the traits of high-performing athletes and the role of coaching in fostering a healthy competitive environment. In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, mental performance coach Steve Magness discusses the intricacies of high performance, focusing on the psychological aspects of choking and the clutch gene. He emphasizes the importance of understanding fear and its impact on performance, using LeBron James as a case study. The conversation also explores the balance between obsession and performance, particularly in the context of youth sports culture in America. He emphasizes the importance of finding balance in success and personal life, the culture of sacrifice in pursuit of success, and the need to embrace failure as a path to performance. The discussion also highlights the traits of high-performing athletes and the role of coaching in fostering a healthy competitive environment. high performance, the victory degree, succcess, victory degree, nik atanackovic, performance, steve magness, nik false full 54 6b0f3799-a895-4d82-a5ac-9b50aa37b572 Mastering Resilience: Navy SEAL on Life, Leadership, and Mental Strength | Rorke Denver In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Rorke Denver shares insights on building a resilient mindset, the importance of self-talk, and the power of hope in overcoming challenges. He reflects on his experiences during SEAL training, particularly Hell Week, and discusses the unique mindset required for special operations. Rorke emphasizes the significance of trusting oneself, the camaraderie among warriors, and the lessons learned from deployments, including finding peace amidst chaos. He concludes with powerful mantras for living a fulfilling life and the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Rorke:

Twitter: x.com/RorkeDenver

Instagram: instagram.com/rorketdenver/

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rorke-denver-21964a162/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Sun, 16 Feb 2025 18:31:19 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/mastering-resilience-navy-seal-on-life-leadership-and-mental-strength-rorke-denver-NL6uy2Dn In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Rorke Denver shares insights on building a resilient mindset, the importance of self-talk, and the power of hope in overcoming challenges. He reflects on his experiences during SEAL training, particularly Hell Week, and discusses the unique mindset required for special operations. Rorke emphasizes the significance of trusting oneself, the camaraderie among warriors, and the lessons learned from deployments, including finding peace amidst chaos. He concludes with powerful mantras for living a fulfilling life and the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Rorke:

Twitter: x.com/RorkeDenver

Instagram: instagram.com/rorketdenver/

LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/rorke-denver-21964a162/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Mastering Resilience: Navy SEAL on Life, Leadership, and Mental Strength | Rorke Denver Nik Atanackovic 01:12:24 In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Rorke Denver shares insights on building a resilient mindset, the importance of self-talk, and the power of hope in overcoming challenges. He reflects on his experiences during SEAL training, particularly Hell Week, and discusses the unique mindset required for special operations. Rorke emphasizes the significance of trusting oneself, the camaraderie among warriors, and the lessons learned from deployments, including finding peace amidst chaos. He concludes with powerful mantras for living a fulfilling life and the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences. In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Rorke Denver shares insights on building a resilient mindset, the importance of self-talk, and the power of hope in overcoming challenges. He reflects on his experiences during SEAL training, particularly Hell Week, and discusses the unique mindset required for special operations. Rorke emphasizes the significance of trusting oneself, the camaraderie among warriors, and the lessons learned from deployments, including finding peace amidst chaos. He concludes with powerful mantras for living a fulfilling life and the importance of surrounding oneself with positive influences. hell week, the victory degree, navy, seal, victory degree, navy seal, rorke denver false full 53 f9170299-82b4-419d-b227-fe6b3372e4c8 Expert Mindset Principles from Ray Lewis, Michael Jordan, Nick Saban, Kobe Bryant, Tom Brady & More | AJ Shavell In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, Nik welcomes AJ Shavell, a coach and content creator, to discuss his journey of self-discovery, the importance of overcoming fear, and the insights he has gained through coaching and content creation. AJ shares his experiences with meditation, self-awareness, and the challenges he faced during the pandemic, which ultimately led him to help others through coaching and writing. The conversation delves into the themes of resilience, leadership, and the significance of embracing discomfort for personal growth. AJ Shavell and Nik also explore the principles of success, leadership, and personal growth through the lens of sports figures like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Nick Saban & Tom Brady. They discuss the importance of leading by example, the necessity of continuous growth, and the power of discipline in overcoming adversity. 

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with AJ:

Twitter: x.com/coachajkings

AJ's Newsletter: thegrowthcompass.beehiiv.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Thu, 6 Feb 2025 18:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/coach-aj-O60WfIvh In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, Nik welcomes AJ Shavell, a coach and content creator, to discuss his journey of self-discovery, the importance of overcoming fear, and the insights he has gained through coaching and content creation. AJ shares his experiences with meditation, self-awareness, and the challenges he faced during the pandemic, which ultimately led him to help others through coaching and writing. The conversation delves into the themes of resilience, leadership, and the significance of embracing discomfort for personal growth. AJ Shavell and Nik also explore the principles of success, leadership, and personal growth through the lens of sports figures like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Nick Saban & Tom Brady. They discuss the importance of leading by example, the necessity of continuous growth, and the power of discipline in overcoming adversity. 

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with AJ:

Twitter: x.com/coachajkings

AJ's Newsletter: thegrowthcompass.beehiiv.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Expert Mindset Principles from Ray Lewis, Michael Jordan, Nick Saban, Kobe Bryant, Tom Brady & More | AJ Shavell Nik Atanackovic 01:13:18 In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, Nik welcomes AJ Shavell, a coach and content creator, to discuss his journey of self-discovery, the importance of overcoming fear, and the insights he has gained through coaching and content creation. AJ shares his experiences with meditation, self-awareness, and the challenges he faced during the pandemic, which ultimately led him to help others through coaching and writing. The conversation delves into the themes of resilience, leadership, and the significance of embracing discomfort for personal growth. AJ Shavell and Nik also explore the principles of success, leadership, and personal growth through the lens of sports figures like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Nick Saban & Tom Brady. They discuss the importance of leading by example, the necessity of continuous growth, and the power of discipline in overcoming adversity. In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, Nik welcomes AJ Shavell, a coach and content creator, to discuss his journey of self-discovery, the importance of overcoming fear, and the insights he has gained through coaching and content creation. AJ shares his experiences with meditation, self-awareness, and the challenges he faced during the pandemic, which ultimately led him to help others through coaching and writing. The conversation delves into the themes of resilience, leadership, and the significance of embracing discomfort for personal growth. AJ Shavell and Nik also explore the principles of success, leadership, and personal growth through the lens of sports figures like Michael Jordan, Kobe Bryant, Nick Saban & Tom Brady. They discuss the importance of leading by example, the necessity of continuous growth, and the power of discipline in overcoming adversity. the victory degree, aj shavell, victory degree, michael jordan, kobe bryant, tom brady false full 52 54ed692f-6b18-432a-9dc7-d563db1b4158 The High School Players That Changed the NBA FOREVER: Kobe Bryant, Kevin Garnett, LeBron James & More | Jonathan Abrams In this episode of the Victory Degree podcast, Nik Atanackovic interviews Jonathan Abrams, author of 'Boys Among Men', discussing the evolution of high school basketball players transitioning to the NBA. They explore the impact of players like Kevin Garnett and Kobe Bryant, the challenges faced by young athletes, and the influence of social media on modern players. The conversation delves into the significance of the 1996 NBA draft and the circumstances that shape player development and success. The consequences of draft decisions, the evolution of NBA rules regarding high school players, and the impact of Sonny Vaccaro in linking shoe deals to the league are also discussed.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Jonathan:

Twitter: x.com/Jpdabrams

Buy "Boys Among Men": mzn.to/3Cr214D

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Sat, 25 Jan 2025 17:15:44 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/the-high-school-players-that-changed-the-nba-forever-kobe-bryant-kevin-garnett-lebron-james-jonathan-abrams-NsaEf8w5 In this episode of the Victory Degree podcast, Nik Atanackovic interviews Jonathan Abrams, author of 'Boys Among Men', discussing the evolution of high school basketball players transitioning to the NBA. They explore the impact of players like Kevin Garnett and Kobe Bryant, the challenges faced by young athletes, and the influence of social media on modern players. The conversation delves into the significance of the 1996 NBA draft and the circumstances that shape player development and success. The consequences of draft decisions, the evolution of NBA rules regarding high school players, and the impact of Sonny Vaccaro in linking shoe deals to the league are also discussed.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Jonathan:

Twitter: x.com/Jpdabrams

Buy "Boys Among Men": mzn.to/3Cr214D

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> The High School Players That Changed the NBA FOREVER: Kobe Bryant, Kevin Garnett, LeBron James & More | Jonathan Abrams Nik Atanackovic 01:08:55 In this episode of the Victory Degree podcast, Nik Atanackovic interviews Jonathan Abrams, author of 'Boys Among Men', discussing the evolution of high school basketball players transitioning to the NBA. They explore the impact of players like Kevin Garnett and Kobe Bryant, the challenges faced by young athletes, and the influence of social media on modern players. The conversation delves into the significance of the 1996 NBA draft and the circumstances that shape player development and success. The consequences of draft decisions, the evolution of NBA rules regarding high school players, and the impact of Sonny Vaccaro in linking shoe deals to the league are also discussed. In this episode of the Victory Degree podcast, Nik Atanackovic interviews Jonathan Abrams, author of 'Boys Among Men', discussing the evolution of high school basketball players transitioning to the NBA. They explore the impact of players like Kevin Garnett and Kobe Bryant, the challenges faced by young athletes, and the influence of social media on modern players. The conversation delves into the significance of the 1996 NBA draft and the circumstances that shape player development and success. The consequences of draft decisions, the evolution of NBA rules regarding high school players, and the impact of Sonny Vaccaro in linking shoe deals to the league are also discussed. kevin garnett, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, jonathan abrams, nik, kobe bryant false full 51 a2356155-5b4c-40be-b5da-37c4edede90e Drew Hanlen ON: Jayson Tatum, Bradley Beal, Joel Embiid, Killer Mindset & NBA Training Tactics In this episode of The Victory Degree podcast, Drew Hanlen, a renowned basketball skills trainer, shares his journey from a passionate young basketball player to training NBA stars. He emphasizes the importance of consistency over intensity, the value of hard work, and the significance of time management. Drew discusses his experiences training players like Bradley Beal, Jayson Tatum & Joel Embiid and the impact of organizational support on player development. He also shares insights from his journey as a basketball trainer, emphasizing the importance of hard work and opportunity. Drew also highlights the evolving coaching techniques in basketball, the human side of NBA players, and the impact of sports betting on fan perception. He concludes by discussing his upcoming book, 'Stop Bullshitting Yourself', which aims to help individuals improve their mentalities and achieve their goals.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Drew:

Twitter: x.com/DrewHanlen

Instagram: instagram.com/drewhanlen/

Buy "Stop Bullshitting Yourself": amzn.to/3PyzVr1

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Mon, 13 Jan 2025 21:04:29 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/drew-hanlen-TCFULPVW In this episode of The Victory Degree podcast, Drew Hanlen, a renowned basketball skills trainer, shares his journey from a passionate young basketball player to training NBA stars. He emphasizes the importance of consistency over intensity, the value of hard work, and the significance of time management. Drew discusses his experiences training players like Bradley Beal, Jayson Tatum & Joel Embiid and the impact of organizational support on player development. He also shares insights from his journey as a basketball trainer, emphasizing the importance of hard work and opportunity. Drew also highlights the evolving coaching techniques in basketball, the human side of NBA players, and the impact of sports betting on fan perception. He concludes by discussing his upcoming book, 'Stop Bullshitting Yourself', which aims to help individuals improve their mentalities and achieve their goals.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Drew:

Twitter: x.com/DrewHanlen

Instagram: instagram.com/drewhanlen/

Buy "Stop Bullshitting Yourself": amzn.to/3PyzVr1

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Drew Hanlen ON: Jayson Tatum, Bradley Beal, Joel Embiid, Killer Mindset & NBA Training Tactics Nik Atanackovic 01:12:55 In this episode of The Victory Degree podcast, Drew Hanlen, a renowned basketball skills trainer, shares his journey from a passionate young basketball player to training NBA stars. He emphasizes the importance of consistency over intensity, the value of hard work, and the significance of time management. Drew discusses his experiences training players like Bradley Beal, Jayson Tatum & Joel Embiid and the impact of organizational support on player development. He also shares insights from his journey as a basketball trainer, emphasizing the importance of hard work and opportunity. Drew also highlights the evolving coaching techniques in basketball, the human side of NBA players, and the impact of sports betting on fan perception. He concludes by discussing his upcoming book, 'Stop Bullshitting Yourself', which aims to help individuals improve their mentalities and achieve their goals. In this episode of The Victory Degree podcast, Drew Hanlen, a renowned basketball skills trainer, shares his journey from a passionate young basketball player to training NBA stars. He emphasizes the importance of consistency over intensity, the value of hard work, and the significance of time management. Drew discusses his experiences training players like Bradley Beal, Jayson Tatum & Joel Embiid and the impact of organizational support on player development. He also shares insights from his journey as a basketball trainer, emphasizing the importance of hard work and opportunity. Drew also highlights the evolving coaching techniques in basketball, the human side of NBA players, and the impact of sports betting on fan perception. He concludes by discussing his upcoming book, 'Stop Bullshitting Yourself', which aims to help individuals improve their mentalities and achieve their goals. the victory degree, jayson tatum, victory degree, nik atanackovic, joel embiid, nik, drew hanlen false full 50 3f88e1a4-5ca8-4298-b57d-d1b567834683 The Most Audacious Process in Sports History | Yaron Weitzman In this conversation, NBA reporter Yaron Weitzman discusses his book 'Tanking to the Top,' which chronicles the Philadelphia 76ers' rebuilding process under Sam Hinkie. The discussion covers the motivations behind writing the book, the team's struggles before Hinkie's arrival, the philosophy of tanking, Hinkie's unique approach to management, and the importance of understanding players as individuals. Yaron also provides insights into the complexities of sports management and the human elements that influence player success. The conversation also touches on the business aspects of basketball and the future of audacious strategies in sports management.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Yaron:

Twitter: x.com/YaronWeitzman

Buy "Tanking to the Top": amzn.to/4h1eNWb

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Mon, 6 Jan 2025 20:59:58 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/the-most-audacious-process-in-sports-history-yaron-weitzman-__4ONSOW In this conversation, NBA reporter Yaron Weitzman discusses his book 'Tanking to the Top,' which chronicles the Philadelphia 76ers' rebuilding process under Sam Hinkie. The discussion covers the motivations behind writing the book, the team's struggles before Hinkie's arrival, the philosophy of tanking, Hinkie's unique approach to management, and the importance of understanding players as individuals. Yaron also provides insights into the complexities of sports management and the human elements that influence player success. The conversation also touches on the business aspects of basketball and the future of audacious strategies in sports management.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Yaron:

Twitter: x.com/YaronWeitzman

Buy "Tanking to the Top": amzn.to/4h1eNWb

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> The Most Audacious Process in Sports History | Yaron Weitzman Nik Atanackovic 00:42:05 In this conversation, NBA reporter Yaron Weitzman discusses his book 'Tanking to the Top,' which chronicles the Philadelphia 76ers' rebuilding process under Sam Hinkie. The discussion covers the motivations behind writing the book, the team's struggles before Hinkie's arrival, the philosophy of tanking, Hinkie's unique approach to management, and the importance of understanding players as individuals. Yaron also provides insights into the complexities of sports management and the human elements that influence player success. The conversation also touches on the business aspects of basketball and the future of audacious strategies in sports management. In this conversation, NBA reporter Yaron Weitzman discusses his book 'Tanking to the Top,' which chronicles the Philadelphia 76ers' rebuilding process under Sam Hinkie. The discussion covers the motivations behind writing the book, the team's struggles before Hinkie's arrival, the philosophy of tanking, Hinkie's unique approach to management, and the importance of understanding players as individuals. Yaron also provides insights into the complexities of sports management and the human elements that influence player success. The conversation also touches on the business aspects of basketball and the future of audacious strategies in sports management. yaron, 76ers, nba, the victory degree, victory degree, sixers, philadelphia 76ers, yaron weitzman false full 49 be9e45c1-f57e-426d-b17f-ec25b7b453c8 David Fales Tells All: Playing w/Colin Kaepernick & Jay Cutler, Life as a Backup QB & Mindset In this engaging conversation, David Fales shares his journey from an under-recruited high school player to a successful quarterback at San Jose State and his experiences in the NFL. He discusses the challenges of quarterback recruitment, the importance of organizational fit, and the influence of great quarterbacks like Drew Brees on his game. Fales emphasizes the multifaceted nature of quarterback success, highlighting the need for strong support systems and the right coaching environments. He reflects on the emotional toll of being cut and signed multiple times, the importance of preparation, and the mental health aspects of being a high-performing athlete. David also discusses the home field advantage cold weather teams have, his training camp experiences in Miami, and insights into notable quarterbacks like Colin Kaepernick, Jay Cutler, and Sam Darnold. Lastly, Fales highlights the importance of being in the right situation for success and the often unseen factors that contribute to a player's career trajectory.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with David:

Instagram: instagram.com/fales10/

Twitter: x.com/DavidFales

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Mon, 9 Dec 2024 00:49:35 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/david-fales-XKUtOQ6M In this engaging conversation, David Fales shares his journey from an under-recruited high school player to a successful quarterback at San Jose State and his experiences in the NFL. He discusses the challenges of quarterback recruitment, the importance of organizational fit, and the influence of great quarterbacks like Drew Brees on his game. Fales emphasizes the multifaceted nature of quarterback success, highlighting the need for strong support systems and the right coaching environments. He reflects on the emotional toll of being cut and signed multiple times, the importance of preparation, and the mental health aspects of being a high-performing athlete. David also discusses the home field advantage cold weather teams have, his training camp experiences in Miami, and insights into notable quarterbacks like Colin Kaepernick, Jay Cutler, and Sam Darnold. Lastly, Fales highlights the importance of being in the right situation for success and the often unseen factors that contribute to a player's career trajectory.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with David:

Instagram: instagram.com/fales10/

Twitter: x.com/DavidFales

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> David Fales Tells All: Playing w/Colin Kaepernick & Jay Cutler, Life as a Backup QB & Mindset Nik Atanackovic 01:29:49 In this engaging conversation, David Fales shares his journey from an under-recruited high school player to a successful quarterback at San Jose State and his experiences in the NFL. He discusses the challenges of quarterback recruitment, the importance of organizational fit, and the influence of great quarterbacks like Drew Brees on his game. Fales emphasizes the multifaceted nature of quarterback success, highlighting the need for strong support systems and the right coaching environments. He reflects on the emotional toll of being cut and signed multiple times, the importance of preparation, and the mental health aspects of being a high-performing athlete. David also discusses the home field advantage cold weather teams have, his training camp experiences in Miami, and insights into notable quarterbacks like Colin Kaepernick, Jay Cutler, and Sam Darnold. Lastly, Fales highlights the importance of being in the right situation for success and the often unseen factors that contribute to a player's career trajectory. In this engaging conversation, David Fales shares his journey from an under-recruited high school player to a successful quarterback at San Jose State and his experiences in the NFL. He discusses the challenges of quarterback recruitment, the importance of organizational fit, and the influence of great quarterbacks like Drew Brees on his game. Fales emphasizes the multifaceted nature of quarterback success, highlighting the need for strong support systems and the right coaching environments. He reflects on the emotional toll of being cut and signed multiple times, the importance of preparation, and the mental health aspects of being a high-performing athlete. David also discusses the home field advantage cold weather teams have, his training camp experiences in Miami, and insights into notable quarterbacks like Colin Kaepernick, Jay Cutler, and Sam Darnold. Lastly, Fales highlights the importance of being in the right situation for success and the often unseen factors that contribute to a player's career trajectory. the victory degree, david fales, victory degree, nik atanackovic false full 48 378de859-c7e5-4c50-8a7c-46a1691b0405 Inside the Mind of An Olympic Gold Medalist | Jerome Blake He's an Olympic Gold Medalist, world champion, and huge fan of Ikea and the Vancouver Canucks. Jerome Blake is carving his own unique path through the world of track and field while simultaneously trying to reinvigorate its popularity. 

In this episode of the Victory Degree podcast, Olympic gold medalist Jerome Blake shares his inspiring journey from growing up in Jamaica to becoming a professional athlete in Canada. He discusses the cultural differences he faced when moving to Canada, his discovery of sprinting, and the mental preparation required for high-stakes competitions. Jerome emphasizes the importance of self-belief and the unique aspects of track and field that keep him motivated. Blake also reflects on the emotional aftermath of winning a gold medal and the challenges of athlete popularity in track and field including the need for disruption in track and field, drawing parallels with the LIV Golf model. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling in sports to engage audiences and market athletes effectively.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Jerome:

Instagram: instagram.com/_jeromeblake/

Twitter: x.com/_Jeromeblake

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Sun, 1 Dec 2024 17:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/jerome-blake-uc8rHYzA He's an Olympic Gold Medalist, world champion, and huge fan of Ikea and the Vancouver Canucks. Jerome Blake is carving his own unique path through the world of track and field while simultaneously trying to reinvigorate its popularity. 

In this episode of the Victory Degree podcast, Olympic gold medalist Jerome Blake shares his inspiring journey from growing up in Jamaica to becoming a professional athlete in Canada. He discusses the cultural differences he faced when moving to Canada, his discovery of sprinting, and the mental preparation required for high-stakes competitions. Jerome emphasizes the importance of self-belief and the unique aspects of track and field that keep him motivated. Blake also reflects on the emotional aftermath of winning a gold medal and the challenges of athlete popularity in track and field including the need for disruption in track and field, drawing parallels with the LIV Golf model. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling in sports to engage audiences and market athletes effectively.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Jerome:

Instagram: instagram.com/_jeromeblake/

Twitter: x.com/_Jeromeblake

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Inside the Mind of An Olympic Gold Medalist | Jerome Blake Nik Atanackovic 01:26:18 He's an Olympic Gold Medalist, world champion, and huge fan of Ikea and the Vancouver Canucks. Jerome Blake is carving his own unique path through the world of track and field while simultaneously trying to reinvigorate its popularity. In this episode of the Victory Degree podcast, Olympic gold medalist Jerome Blake shares his inspiring journey from growing up in Jamaica to becoming a professional athlete in Canada. He discusses the cultural differences he faced when moving to Canada, his discovery of sprinting, and the mental preparation required for high-stakes competitions. Jerome emphasizes the importance of self-belief and the unique aspects of track and field that keep him motivated. Blake also reflects on the emotional aftermath of winning a gold medal and the challenges of athlete popularity in track and field including the need for disruption in track and field, drawing parallels with the LIV Golf model. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling in sports to engage audiences and market athletes effectively. He's an Olympic Gold Medalist, world champion, and huge fan of Ikea and the Vancouver Canucks. Jerome Blake is carving his own unique path through the world of track and field while simultaneously trying to reinvigorate its popularity. In this episode of the Victory Degree podcast, Olympic gold medalist Jerome Blake shares his inspiring journey from growing up in Jamaica to becoming a professional athlete in Canada. He discusses the cultural differences he faced when moving to Canada, his discovery of sprinting, and the mental preparation required for high-stakes competitions. Jerome emphasizes the importance of self-belief and the unique aspects of track and field that keep him motivated. Blake also reflects on the emotional aftermath of winning a gold medal and the challenges of athlete popularity in track and field including the need for disruption in track and field, drawing parallels with the LIV Golf model. He emphasizes the importance of storytelling in sports to engage audiences and market athletes effectively. the victory degree, jerome blake, victory degree, nik atanackovic, nik false full 47 eb5a0b7c-60a8-4975-8522-2bdc04849337 Larry English Tells ALL: Dealing w/the "Bust" Label, NFL Experience, Growth Mindset & Fatherhood He's a former 1st round pick of the San Diego Chargers, reality TV star, and present day entrepreneur. Larry English joins the pod to talk through his journey to football, experience building his own company & brand, and much more!

In this conversation, Larry English shares his journey from growing up in Aurora, Illinois, to becoming a first-round draft pick. He discusses the importance of family support, his early passion for football, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. Larry emphasizes the significance of viewing the NFL as an opportunity rather than a career, reflecting on the average lifespan of an NFL player and the realities of injuries and competition. He also recounts his decision to attend Northern Illinois University and the challenges he faced during his college career, ultimately leading to his success as a pass rusher. Larry hits on the importance of unlocking one's potential, the power of fun in achieving success, and the significance of preparation and non-attachment to outcomes. Larry shares insights on resilience, communication, and the journey of overcoming labels like 'bust' in sports. The conversation culminates in a heartfelt discussion about the fulfillment of fatherhood compared to a career in football, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and serving others.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Larry:

Instagram: instagram.com/larryenglish_/

Twitter: x.com/LarryEnglish57

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Mon, 25 Nov 2024 02:25:34 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/larry-english-Wpw0_CBW He's a former 1st round pick of the San Diego Chargers, reality TV star, and present day entrepreneur. Larry English joins the pod to talk through his journey to football, experience building his own company & brand, and much more!

In this conversation, Larry English shares his journey from growing up in Aurora, Illinois, to becoming a first-round draft pick. He discusses the importance of family support, his early passion for football, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. Larry emphasizes the significance of viewing the NFL as an opportunity rather than a career, reflecting on the average lifespan of an NFL player and the realities of injuries and competition. He also recounts his decision to attend Northern Illinois University and the challenges he faced during his college career, ultimately leading to his success as a pass rusher. Larry hits on the importance of unlocking one's potential, the power of fun in achieving success, and the significance of preparation and non-attachment to outcomes. Larry shares insights on resilience, communication, and the journey of overcoming labels like 'bust' in sports. The conversation culminates in a heartfelt discussion about the fulfillment of fatherhood compared to a career in football, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and serving others.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Larry:

Instagram: instagram.com/larryenglish_/

Twitter: x.com/LarryEnglish57

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Larry English Tells ALL: Dealing w/the "Bust" Label, NFL Experience, Growth Mindset & Fatherhood Nik Atanackovic 01:06:38 He's a former 1st round pick of the San Diego Chargers, reality TV star, and present day entrepreneur. Larry English joins the pod to talk through his journey to football, experience building his own company & brand, and much more! In this conversation, Larry English shares his journey from growing up in Aurora, Illinois, to becoming a first-round draft pick. He discusses the importance of family support, his early passion for football, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. Larry emphasizes the significance of viewing the NFL as an opportunity rather than a career, reflecting on the average lifespan of an NFL player and the realities of injuries and competition. He also recounts his decision to attend Northern Illinois University and the challenges he faced during his college career, ultimately leading to his success as a pass rusher. Larry hits on the importance of unlocking one's potential, the power of fun in achieving success, and the significance of preparation and non-attachment to outcomes. Larry shares insights on resilience, communication, and the journey of overcoming labels like 'bust' in sports. The conversation culminates in a heartfelt discussion about the fulfillment of fatherhood compared to a career in football, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and serving others. He's a former 1st round pick of the San Diego Chargers, reality TV star, and present day entrepreneur. Larry English joins the pod to talk through his journey to football, experience building his own company & brand, and much more! In this conversation, Larry English shares his journey from growing up in Aurora, Illinois, to becoming a first-round draft pick. He discusses the importance of family support, his early passion for football, and the pivotal moments that shaped his career. Larry emphasizes the significance of viewing the NFL as an opportunity rather than a career, reflecting on the average lifespan of an NFL player and the realities of injuries and competition. He also recounts his decision to attend Northern Illinois University and the challenges he faced during his college career, ultimately leading to his success as a pass rusher. Larry hits on the importance of unlocking one's potential, the power of fun in achieving success, and the significance of preparation and non-attachment to outcomes. Larry shares insights on resilience, communication, and the journey of overcoming labels like 'bust' in sports. The conversation culminates in a heartfelt discussion about the fulfillment of fatherhood compared to a career in football, emphasizing the importance of personal growth and serving others. the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, larry english false full 46 310bf149-144d-4ab9-8c0d-bba68e78eabb Inside the Mind of a Track & Field World Champion | Trevor Bassitt He's an Olympian, world champion, and huge Tennessee Titans fan. Trevor Bassitt joins the pod to talk through his journey from Bluffton, Ohio to the world stage.

Trevor Bassitt is a 400m hurdler who won Bronze at the 2022 World Championships and recently represented team USA in the Paris Olympics. 

In this conversation, Trevor shares insights about his upbringing in Bluffton, Ohio, emphasizing the importance of community and accountability. He reflects on the strong work ethic instilled in him by his parents and how it shaped his approach to sports. Trevor recounts his initial struggles with hurdles and his eventual success in high school track, leading to his decision to pursue athletics in college. He delves into his experiences as an Olympian, discussing the unique atmosphere of the Olympic Village, the pressures of competition, and his reflections on performance. He also touches on the misconceptions surrounding Olympians, the challenges faced by young quarterbacks in the NFL, and even delves into a light-hearted debate about Nickelback's music. Throughout the discussion, Trevor emphasizes the importance of mental preparation and resilience in the face of challenges, while also expressing excitement for future competitions and the journey ahead.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Trevor:

Instagram: instagram.com/trevorbassitt30/

Twitter: x.com/TrevorBassitt30

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Sat, 16 Nov 2024 17:49:42 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/trevor-bassitt-oPvK7xHW He's an Olympian, world champion, and huge Tennessee Titans fan. Trevor Bassitt joins the pod to talk through his journey from Bluffton, Ohio to the world stage.

Trevor Bassitt is a 400m hurdler who won Bronze at the 2022 World Championships and recently represented team USA in the Paris Olympics. 

In this conversation, Trevor shares insights about his upbringing in Bluffton, Ohio, emphasizing the importance of community and accountability. He reflects on the strong work ethic instilled in him by his parents and how it shaped his approach to sports. Trevor recounts his initial struggles with hurdles and his eventual success in high school track, leading to his decision to pursue athletics in college. He delves into his experiences as an Olympian, discussing the unique atmosphere of the Olympic Village, the pressures of competition, and his reflections on performance. He also touches on the misconceptions surrounding Olympians, the challenges faced by young quarterbacks in the NFL, and even delves into a light-hearted debate about Nickelback's music. Throughout the discussion, Trevor emphasizes the importance of mental preparation and resilience in the face of challenges, while also expressing excitement for future competitions and the journey ahead.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Trevor:

Instagram: instagram.com/trevorbassitt30/

Twitter: x.com/TrevorBassitt30

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Inside the Mind of a Track & Field World Champion | Trevor Bassitt Nik Atanackovic 01:26:32 He's an Olympian, world champion, and huge Tennessee Titans fan. Trevor Bassitt joins the pod to talk through his journey from Bluffton, Ohio to the world stage. Trevor Bassitt is a 400m hurdler who won Bronze at the 2022 World Championships and recently represented team USA in the Paris Olympics. He's an Olympian, world champion, and huge Tennessee Titans fan. Trevor Bassitt joins the pod to talk through his journey from Bluffton, Ohio to the world stage. Trevor Bassitt is a 400m hurdler who won Bronze at the 2022 World Championships and recently represented team USA in the Paris Olympics. the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, trevor bassitt, olympics, olympian false full 45 0d2a6bfb-cedf-4e2f-9fe4-df7574c45f88 Jeff Pearlman ON: The Shaq/Kobe Lakers, 90's Cowboys, Walter Payton, State of Sports Media & Bo Jackson The most iconic sportswriter in America today - Jeff Pearlman joins the pod to talk through the 02' Lakers, 90's Cowboys, and plenty of other iconic sports stories. 

Jeff Pearlman is an American sportswriter who has written nine books that have appeared on The New York Times Best Seller list: four about football, three on baseball and two about basketball. He authored the 1999 John Rocker interview in Sports Illustrated. 

In this conversation, Jeff shares his unique journey as a New York Jets fan, the expectations and disappointments that come with it, and his insights into sports writing and storytelling. He reflects on Kobe Bryant's early years and his complex relationship with Shaquille O'Neal, and delves into Phil Jackson's coaching philosophy. The conversation also touches on the controversial Kings vs. Lakers 02' playoff series and rapid-fire stories about the NBA draft, Walter Payton, and the 90s Cowboys.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Jeff:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/jeff_pearlman/

TikTok: tiktok.com/@jeffpearlmanauthor

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Sat, 9 Nov 2024 23:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/jeff-pearlman-PgxeL_mF The most iconic sportswriter in America today - Jeff Pearlman joins the pod to talk through the 02' Lakers, 90's Cowboys, and plenty of other iconic sports stories. 

Jeff Pearlman is an American sportswriter who has written nine books that have appeared on The New York Times Best Seller list: four about football, three on baseball and two about basketball. He authored the 1999 John Rocker interview in Sports Illustrated. 

In this conversation, Jeff shares his unique journey as a New York Jets fan, the expectations and disappointments that come with it, and his insights into sports writing and storytelling. He reflects on Kobe Bryant's early years and his complex relationship with Shaquille O'Neal, and delves into Phil Jackson's coaching philosophy. The conversation also touches on the controversial Kings vs. Lakers 02' playoff series and rapid-fire stories about the NBA draft, Walter Payton, and the 90s Cowboys.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Jeff:

Instagram: www.instagram.com/jeff_pearlman/

TikTok: tiktok.com/@jeffpearlmanauthor

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Jeff Pearlman ON: The Shaq/Kobe Lakers, 90's Cowboys, Walter Payton, State of Sports Media & Bo Jackson Nik Atanackovic 01:15:28 The most iconic sportswriter in America today - Jeff Pearlman joins the pod to talk through the 02' Lakers, 90's Cowboys, and plenty of other iconic sports stories. Jeff Pearlman is an American sportswriter who has written nine books that have appeared on The New York Times Best Seller list: four about football, three on baseball and two about basketball. He authored the 1999 John Rocker interview in Sports Illustrated. In this conversation, Jeff shares his unique journey as a New York Jets fan, the expectations and disappointments that come with it, and his insights into sports writing and storytelling. He reflects on Kobe Bryant's early years and his complex relationship with Shaquille O'Neal, and delves into Phil Jackson's coaching philosophy. The conversation also touches on the controversial Kings vs. Lakers 02' playoff series and rapid-fire stories about the NBA draft, Walter Payton, and the 90s Cowboys. The most iconic sportswriter in America today - Jeff Pearlman joins the pod to talk through the 02' Lakers, 90's Cowboys, and plenty of other iconic sports stories. Jeff Pearlman is an American sportswriter who has written nine books that have appeared on The New York Times Best Seller list: four about football, three on baseball and two about basketball. He authored the 1999 John Rocker interview in Sports Illustrated. In this conversation, Jeff shares his unique journey as a New York Jets fan, the expectations and disappointments that come with it, and his insights into sports writing and storytelling. He reflects on Kobe Bryant's early years and his complex relationship with Shaquille O'Neal, and delves into Phil Jackson's coaching philosophy. The conversation also touches on the controversial Kings vs. Lakers 02' playoff series and rapid-fire stories about the NBA draft, Walter Payton, and the 90s Cowboys. the victory degree, victory degree, bo jackson, nik atanackovic, walter payton, jeff pearlman false full 44 ecfdeb2e-41ed-460a-ba24-9ea3d8809bce Are the Chiefs Overrated, Best Bet for MVP, NFC & AFC Playoff Landscape + SB Predictions | Aaron Schatz The NFL season is at the halfway point and so it was only right to bring back Aaron Schatz to discuss his thoughts on the season thus far.  

Aaron is currently the Chief Analytics Officer at FTN Fantasy and also writes for ESPN+. He has studied the world of advanced NFL stats for 20+ years, is the creator of DVOA, and votes for the All-Pro & MVP awards each year. 

In this conversation, Nik and Aaron delve into the current state of the NFL, focusing on the NFC Championship contenders, the impact of offensive masterminds, underperforming teams, quarterback development strategies, MVP candidates, and their Super Bowl predictions. They analyze various teams' chances of making the playoffs, the effectiveness of different coaching styles, the importance of quarterback performance in team success & analyze the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, and Buffalo Bills as key contenders in the AFC, while also exploring the potential of rookie quarterbacks and the competitive landscape in the NFC.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Aaron:

Twitter: x.com/ASchatzNFL

FTN Fantasy: ftnfantasy.com

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Thu, 7 Nov 2024 17:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/are-the-chiefs-overrated-best-bet-for-mvp-nfc-afc-playoff-landscape-sb-predictions-aaron-schatz-Zb_AAYvz The NFL season is at the halfway point and so it was only right to bring back Aaron Schatz to discuss his thoughts on the season thus far.  

Aaron is currently the Chief Analytics Officer at FTN Fantasy and also writes for ESPN+. He has studied the world of advanced NFL stats for 20+ years, is the creator of DVOA, and votes for the All-Pro & MVP awards each year. 

In this conversation, Nik and Aaron delve into the current state of the NFL, focusing on the NFC Championship contenders, the impact of offensive masterminds, underperforming teams, quarterback development strategies, MVP candidates, and their Super Bowl predictions. They analyze various teams' chances of making the playoffs, the effectiveness of different coaching styles, the importance of quarterback performance in team success & analyze the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, and Buffalo Bills as key contenders in the AFC, while also exploring the potential of rookie quarterbacks and the competitive landscape in the NFC.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Aaron:

Twitter: x.com/ASchatzNFL

FTN Fantasy: ftnfantasy.com

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Are the Chiefs Overrated, Best Bet for MVP, NFC & AFC Playoff Landscape + SB Predictions | Aaron Schatz Nik Atanackovic 00:51:54 The NFL season is at the halfway point and so it was only right to bring back Aaron Schatz to discuss his thoughts on the season thus far. Aaron is currently the Chief Analytics Officer at FTN Fantasy and also writes for ESPN+. He has studied the world of advanced NFL stats for 20+ years, is the creator of DVOA, and votes for the All-Pro & MVP awards each year. In this conversation, Nik and Aaron delve into the current state of the NFL, focusing on the NFC Championship contenders, the impact of offensive masterminds, underperforming teams, quarterback development strategies, MVP candidates, and their Super Bowl predictions. They analyze various teams' chances of making the playoffs, the effectiveness of different coaching styles, the importance of quarterback performance in team success & analyze the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, and Buffalo Bills as key contenders in the AFC, while also exploring the potential of rookie quarterbacks and the competitive landscape in the NFC. The NFL season is at the halfway point and so it was only right to bring back Aaron Schatz to discuss his thoughts on the season thus far. Aaron is currently the Chief Analytics Officer at FTN Fantasy and also writes for ESPN+. He has studied the world of advanced NFL stats for 20+ years, is the creator of DVOA, and votes for the All-Pro & MVP awards each year. In this conversation, Nik and Aaron delve into the current state of the NFL, focusing on the NFC Championship contenders, the impact of offensive masterminds, underperforming teams, quarterback development strategies, MVP candidates, and their Super Bowl predictions. They analyze various teams' chances of making the playoffs, the effectiveness of different coaching styles, the importance of quarterback performance in team success & analyze the Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, and Buffalo Bills as key contenders in the AFC, while also exploring the potential of rookie quarterbacks and the competitive landscape in the NFC. super bowl, aaron schatz, nfl, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, nik false full 43 94e1c3af-d09d-4b03-9950-f231db365ddb The John Elway Story: From High School Prodigy to the Hall of Fame | Jason Cole Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview athletes, authors, coaches, and everyone in-between to get a fresh perspective on the world of sports. 

Today's guest is Jason Cole - the author of "Elway: A Relentless Life."

Jason Cole discusses his biography on John Elway, exploring the quarterback's early life, career challenges, and the serendipitous moments that shaped his success. Cole shares insights into the complexities of evaluating and drafting quarterbacks in the NFL, the impact of Elway's dual-sport talent, and the chaotic nature of his college career, culminating in memorable moments that defined his legacy. The discussion also touches on Elway's transition from player to executive, navigating Tebow mania and ultimately securing a Super Bowl victory with Peyton Manning. In addition, Nik and Jason discuss the complexities of NFL quarterback evaluations, John Elway's strategic decisions in building a championship team, and the intricate Hall of Fame selection process including the challenges of assessing quarterbacks like Philip Rivers and Eli Manning, highlighting the subjective nature of Hall of Fame candidacy and the impact of performance on legacy.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Jason:

Twitter: x.com/JasonCole62

Buy "Elway": amzn.to/48w0VAj

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Thu, 31 Oct 2024 19:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/john-elway-QRYRl3rB Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview athletes, authors, coaches, and everyone in-between to get a fresh perspective on the world of sports. 

Today's guest is Jason Cole - the author of "Elway: A Relentless Life."

Jason Cole discusses his biography on John Elway, exploring the quarterback's early life, career challenges, and the serendipitous moments that shaped his success. Cole shares insights into the complexities of evaluating and drafting quarterbacks in the NFL, the impact of Elway's dual-sport talent, and the chaotic nature of his college career, culminating in memorable moments that defined his legacy. The discussion also touches on Elway's transition from player to executive, navigating Tebow mania and ultimately securing a Super Bowl victory with Peyton Manning. In addition, Nik and Jason discuss the complexities of NFL quarterback evaluations, John Elway's strategic decisions in building a championship team, and the intricate Hall of Fame selection process including the challenges of assessing quarterbacks like Philip Rivers and Eli Manning, highlighting the subjective nature of Hall of Fame candidacy and the impact of performance on legacy.

Other Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Jason:

Twitter: x.com/JasonCole62

Buy "Elway": amzn.to/48w0VAj

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> The John Elway Story: From High School Prodigy to the Hall of Fame | Jason Cole Nik Atanackovic 01:51:30 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview athletes, authors, coaches, and everyone in-between to get a fresh perspective on the world of sports. Today's guest is Jason Cole - the author of "Elway: A Relentless Life." Jason Cole discusses his biography on John Elway, exploring the quarterback's early life, career challenges, and the serendipitous moments that shaped his success. Cole shares insights into the complexities of evaluating and drafting quarterbacks in the NFL, the impact of Elway's dual-sport talent, and the chaotic nature of his college career, culminating in memorable moments that defined his legacy. The discussion also touches on Elway's transition from player to executive, navigating Tebow mania and ultimately securing a Super Bowl victory with Peyton Manning. In addition, Nik and Jason discuss the complexities of NFL quarterback evaluations, John Elway's strategic decisions in building a championship team, and the intricate Hall of Fame selection process including the challenges of assessing quarterbacks like Philip Rivers and Eli Manning, highlighting the subjective nature of Hall of Fame candidacy and the impact of performance on legacy. Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview athletes, authors, coaches, and everyone in-between to get a fresh perspective on the world of sports. Today's guest is Jason Cole - the author of "Elway: A Relentless Life." Jason Cole discusses his biography on John Elway, exploring the quarterback's early life, career challenges, and the serendipitous moments that shaped his success. Cole shares insights into the complexities of evaluating and drafting quarterbacks in the NFL, the impact of Elway's dual-sport talent, and the chaotic nature of his college career, culminating in memorable moments that defined his legacy. The discussion also touches on Elway's transition from player to executive, navigating Tebow mania and ultimately securing a Super Bowl victory with Peyton Manning. In addition, Nik and Jason discuss the complexities of NFL quarterback evaluations, John Elway's strategic decisions in building a championship team, and the intricate Hall of Fame selection process including the challenges of assessing quarterbacks like Philip Rivers and Eli Manning, highlighting the subjective nature of Hall of Fame candidacy and the impact of performance on legacy. jason cole, the victory degree, elway, victory degree, john elway false full 42 e79aba5b-5a32-46f2-8705-d368886c883e The Life & Legacy of the NBA's Most Underrated Player: Hakeem Olajuwon | Mirin Fader Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  

Today’s guest is Mirin Fader - Mirin is the author of "Dream" - the definitive biography of Hakeem Olajuwon.

It’s now the norm for NBA and collegiate teams to have international players dotting their rosters. The Olympics are no longer a gimme for Team USA. Both via fans streaming from all over the globe and leagues starting in countries throughout the world, the international presence of the game of basketball is a force to be reckoned with.

That all started with Hakeem “the Dream” Olajuwon. He was the first international player to win the MVP, which is hard to believe now considering the last time an American‑born player won it was in 2018. Award-winning hoops journalist Mirin Fader explores this phenomenal shift through the lens of what Olajuwon accomplished throughout the 1980s and ‘90s. Dream ignites nostalgia for Phi Slama Jama and “the Dream Shake,” while also exploring the profound influence of Olajuwon’s commitment to Islam on his approach to life and basketball, and how his devotion to his faith inspired generations of Muslim people around the world.

Olajuwon’s ongoing work with NBA Africa, his status as an international ambassador for the game, and his consultations with today’s brightest stars, from LeBron James to Giannis Antetokounmpo, brings the story right up to the present moment, and beyond. Synthesizing hundreds of interviews and in-depth research, Fader provides the definitive biography of Olajuwon as well as a crucial understanding of his pivotal impact on the ever-shifting game.

In this interview, Mirin discusses her latest book on Hakeem Olajuwon, exploring his life, legacy, and the impact he had on basketball and his community. The discussion covers Hakeem's upbringing in Nigeria, his late start in basketball, the role of mentorship, and the challenges he faced as an international player in the NBA. Fader also delves into the controversial circumstances surrounding Hakeem's move to the University of Houston and the 1984 NBA draft, highlighting the significance of his journey and the broader implications for international players in the sport. This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Hakeem Olajuwon, exploring his journey from the 1984 NBA Draft to his spiritual awakening and leadership evolution. The discussion highlights his unique experiences during Ramadan, his marketability challenges, and his impact on the Muslim community post-9/11. Fader shares insights from her extensive research and interviews, emphasizing Hakeem's authenticity and the importance of giving back without seeking recognition.

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Mirin:

Twitter: https://x.com/MirinFader

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mirinfader/

Website: https://mirinfader.com/

Buy "Dream": amzn.to/404GMPk

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Wed, 16 Oct 2024 00:50:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/the-life-legacy-of-the-nbas-most-underrated-player-hakeem-olajuwon-mirin-fader-v_eIC90o Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  

Today’s guest is Mirin Fader - Mirin is the author of "Dream" - the definitive biography of Hakeem Olajuwon.

It’s now the norm for NBA and collegiate teams to have international players dotting their rosters. The Olympics are no longer a gimme for Team USA. Both via fans streaming from all over the globe and leagues starting in countries throughout the world, the international presence of the game of basketball is a force to be reckoned with.

That all started with Hakeem “the Dream” Olajuwon. He was the first international player to win the MVP, which is hard to believe now considering the last time an American‑born player won it was in 2018. Award-winning hoops journalist Mirin Fader explores this phenomenal shift through the lens of what Olajuwon accomplished throughout the 1980s and ‘90s. Dream ignites nostalgia for Phi Slama Jama and “the Dream Shake,” while also exploring the profound influence of Olajuwon’s commitment to Islam on his approach to life and basketball, and how his devotion to his faith inspired generations of Muslim people around the world.

Olajuwon’s ongoing work with NBA Africa, his status as an international ambassador for the game, and his consultations with today’s brightest stars, from LeBron James to Giannis Antetokounmpo, brings the story right up to the present moment, and beyond. Synthesizing hundreds of interviews and in-depth research, Fader provides the definitive biography of Olajuwon as well as a crucial understanding of his pivotal impact on the ever-shifting game.

In this interview, Mirin discusses her latest book on Hakeem Olajuwon, exploring his life, legacy, and the impact he had on basketball and his community. The discussion covers Hakeem's upbringing in Nigeria, his late start in basketball, the role of mentorship, and the challenges he faced as an international player in the NBA. Fader also delves into the controversial circumstances surrounding Hakeem's move to the University of Houston and the 1984 NBA draft, highlighting the significance of his journey and the broader implications for international players in the sport. This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Hakeem Olajuwon, exploring his journey from the 1984 NBA Draft to his spiritual awakening and leadership evolution. The discussion highlights his unique experiences during Ramadan, his marketability challenges, and his impact on the Muslim community post-9/11. Fader shares insights from her extensive research and interviews, emphasizing Hakeem's authenticity and the importance of giving back without seeking recognition.

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Mirin:

Twitter: https://x.com/MirinFader

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mirinfader/

Website: https://mirinfader.com/

Buy "Dream": amzn.to/404GMPk

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> The Life & Legacy of the NBA's Most Underrated Player: Hakeem Olajuwon | Mirin Fader Nik Atanackovic 01:13:31 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  Today’s guest is Mirin Fader - Tim is the author of "Dream" - the definitive biography of Hakeem Olajuwon.It’s now the norm for NBA and collegiate teams to have international players dotting their rosters. The Olympics are no longer a gimme for Team USA. Both via fans streaming from all over the globe and leagues starting in countries throughout the world, the international presence of the game of basketball is a force to be reckoned with.That all started with Hakeem “the Dream” Olajuwon. He was the first international player to win the MVP, which is hard to believe now considering the last time an American‑born player won it was in 2018. Award-winning hoops journalist Mirin Fader explores this phenomenal shift through the lens of what Olajuwon accomplished throughout the 1980s and ‘90s. Dream ignites nostalgia for Phi Slama Jama and “the Dream Shake,” while also exploring the profound influence of Olajuwon’s commitment to Islam on his approach to life and basketball, and how his devotion to his faith inspired generations of Muslim people around the world.Olajuwon’s ongoing work with NBA Africa, his status as an international ambassador for the game, and his consultations with today’s brightest stars, from LeBron James to Giannis Antetokounmpo, brings the story right up to the present moment, and beyond. Synthesizing hundreds of interviews and in-depth research, Fader provides the definitive biography of Olajuwon as well as a crucial understanding of his pivotal impact on the ever-shifting game. In this interview, Mirin discusses her latest book on Hakeem Olajuwon, exploring his life, legacy, and the impact he had on basketball and his community. The discussion covers Hakeem's upbringing in Nigeria, his late start in basketball, the role of mentorship, and the challenges he faced as an international player in the NBA. Fader also delves into the controversial circumstances surrounding Hakeem's move to the University of Houston and the 1984 NBA draft, highlighting the significance of his journey and the broader implications for international players in the sport. This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Hakeem Olajuwon, exploring his journey from the 1984 NBA Draft to his spiritual awakening and leadership evolution. The discussion highlights his unique experiences during Ramadan, his marketability challenges, and his impact on the Muslim community post-9/11. Fader shares insights from her extensive research and interviews, emphasizing Hakeem's authenticity and the importance of giving back without seeking recognition. As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  Today’s guest is Mirin Fader - Tim is the author of "Dream" - the definitive biography of Hakeem Olajuwon.It’s now the norm for NBA and collegiate teams to have international players dotting their rosters. The Olympics are no longer a gimme for Team USA. Both via fans streaming from all over the globe and leagues starting in countries throughout the world, the international presence of the game of basketball is a force to be reckoned with.That all started with Hakeem “the Dream” Olajuwon. He was the first international player to win the MVP, which is hard to believe now considering the last time an American‑born player won it was in 2018. Award-winning hoops journalist Mirin Fader explores this phenomenal shift through the lens of what Olajuwon accomplished throughout the 1980s and ‘90s. Dream ignites nostalgia for Phi Slama Jama and “the Dream Shake,” while also exploring the profound influence of Olajuwon’s commitment to Islam on his approach to life and basketball, and how his devotion to his faith inspired generations of Muslim people around the world.Olajuwon’s ongoing work with NBA Africa, his status as an international ambassador for the game, and his consultations with today’s brightest stars, from LeBron James to Giannis Antetokounmpo, brings the story right up to the present moment, and beyond. Synthesizing hundreds of interviews and in-depth research, Fader provides the definitive biography of Olajuwon as well as a crucial understanding of his pivotal impact on the ever-shifting game. In this interview, Mirin discusses her latest book on Hakeem Olajuwon, exploring his life, legacy, and the impact he had on basketball and his community. The discussion covers Hakeem's upbringing in Nigeria, his late start in basketball, the role of mentorship, and the challenges he faced as an international player in the NBA. Fader also delves into the controversial circumstances surrounding Hakeem's move to the University of Houston and the 1984 NBA draft, highlighting the significance of his journey and the broader implications for international players in the sport. This conversation delves into the life and legacy of Hakeem Olajuwon, exploring his journey from the 1984 NBA Draft to his spiritual awakening and leadership evolution. The discussion highlights his unique experiences during Ramadan, his marketability challenges, and his impact on the Muslim community post-9/11. Fader shares insights from her extensive research and interviews, emphasizing Hakeem's authenticity and the importance of giving back without seeking recognition. As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, mirin fader, nik, hakeem olajuwon false full 41 244206d6-67c2-4ca3-aca1-381532e14bf2 The Life & Story of America's Most Interesting Athlete: Charles Barkley | Tim Bella Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  

Today’s guest is Timothy Bella - Tim is the author of his book "Barkley" - the definitive biography of Charles Barkley, exploring his early childhood, his storied NBA career, and his enduring legacy as a provocative voice in American pop culture. 
Timothy Bella is an author and journalist based in Northern Virginia. His first book, “Barkley,” was released in 2022 to critical acclaim. He’s written for the biggest publications in the world over the last 16 years, including The Washington Post, The New York Times, Esquire, GQ, Vanity Fair and Rolling Stone. He left The Post in 2024 to work on his second book, write profiles and spend more time with his amazing family.

“Charles is like a brother to me and there’s no one else like him. His larger-than-life persona shines through in Timothy Bella’s writing and I know this biography, of one of the world’s most entertaining people, will be enjoyed by many.”—Shaquille O'Neal

In this interview, Tim & Nik discuss Tim’s latest book “Barkley.” Everything from Barkley's upbringing (including his role as a "Cake Bandit"), to his experience at Auburn, to draft day and going to the 76ers, to his playoff disappointments, and even his rivalry with Michael Jordan. This is a definitive look at Chuck's life both on and off the court. 

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Tim:

Twitter: https://x.com/TimBella

Website: https://www.timothybella.com/

Buy "Barkley": amzn.to/3zx9bmx

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Tue, 1 Oct 2024 23:52:57 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/the-life-story-of-americas-most-interesting-athlete-charles-barkley-tim-bella-VdqIsJZP Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  

Today’s guest is Timothy Bella - Tim is the author of his book "Barkley" - the definitive biography of Charles Barkley, exploring his early childhood, his storied NBA career, and his enduring legacy as a provocative voice in American pop culture. 
Timothy Bella is an author and journalist based in Northern Virginia. His first book, “Barkley,” was released in 2022 to critical acclaim. He’s written for the biggest publications in the world over the last 16 years, including The Washington Post, The New York Times, Esquire, GQ, Vanity Fair and Rolling Stone. He left The Post in 2024 to work on his second book, write profiles and spend more time with his amazing family.

“Charles is like a brother to me and there’s no one else like him. His larger-than-life persona shines through in Timothy Bella’s writing and I know this biography, of one of the world’s most entertaining people, will be enjoyed by many.”—Shaquille O'Neal

In this interview, Tim & Nik discuss Tim’s latest book “Barkley.” Everything from Barkley's upbringing (including his role as a "Cake Bandit"), to his experience at Auburn, to draft day and going to the 76ers, to his playoff disappointments, and even his rivalry with Michael Jordan. This is a definitive look at Chuck's life both on and off the court. 

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Tim:

Twitter: https://x.com/TimBella

Website: https://www.timothybella.com/

Buy "Barkley": amzn.to/3zx9bmx

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> The Life & Story of America's Most Interesting Athlete: Charles Barkley | Tim Bella Nik Atanackovic 01:18:57 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  Today’s guest is Timothy Bella - Tim is the author of his book "Barkley" - the definitive biography of Charles Barkley, exploring his early childhood, his storied NBA career, and his enduring legacy as a provocative voice in American pop culture. Timothy Bella is an author and journalist based in Northern Virginia. His first book, “Barkley,” was released in 2022 to critical acclaim. He’s written for the biggest publications in the world over the last 16 years, including The Washington Post, The New York Times, Esquire, GQ, Vanity Fair and Rolling Stone. He left The Post in 2024 to work on his second book, write profiles and spend more time with his amazing family. In this interview, Tim & Nik discuss Tim’s latest book “Barkley.” Everything from Barkley's upbringing (including his role as a "Cake Bandit"), to his experience at Auburn, to draft day and going to the 76ers, to his playoff disappointments, and even his rivalry with Michael Jordan. This is a definitive look at Chuck's life both on and off the court. As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  Today’s guest is Timothy Bella - Tim is the author of his book "Barkley" - the definitive biography of Charles Barkley, exploring his early childhood, his storied NBA career, and his enduring legacy as a provocative voice in American pop culture. Timothy Bella is an author and journalist based in Northern Virginia. His first book, “Barkley,” was released in 2022 to critical acclaim. He’s written for the biggest publications in the world over the last 16 years, including The Washington Post, The New York Times, Esquire, GQ, Vanity Fair and Rolling Stone. He left The Post in 2024 to work on his second book, write profiles and spend more time with his amazing family. In this interview, Tim & Nik discuss Tim’s latest book “Barkley.” Everything from Barkley's upbringing (including his role as a "Cake Bandit"), to his experience at Auburn, to draft day and going to the 76ers, to his playoff disappointments, and even his rivalry with Michael Jordan. This is a definitive look at Chuck's life both on and off the court. As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… nba, the victory degree, timothy bella, charles barkley, nik atanackovic, tim bella false full 40 4022e2b2-db1f-4707-a8e1-19c700031ae7 The Secrets of Human Performance & Endurance | Alex Hutchinson Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  

Today’s guest is Alex Hutchinson - Alex is the New York Times bestselling author of Endure, a longtime columnist for Outside covering the science of endurance, and a National Magazine Award–winning journalist who has contributed to the New York Times, The New Yorker, and other publications. A former long-distance runner for the Canadian national team, he holds a master’s in journalism from Columbia and a Ph.D. in physics from Cambridge, and he did his post-doctoral research with the National Security Agency. He lives in Toronto with his family

In this interview, Alex reveals some hidden truths about the world of endurance and human performance including: optimal hydration levels, the importance of VO2 max and how to increase it, what really determines your endurance limits, various studies on peak human performance, and much more... 

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Alex:

Twitter: https://x.com/sweatscience 

Website: https://alexhutchinson.net/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Tue, 24 Sep 2024 00:09:59 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/alex-hutchinson-eqbceCtw Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  

Today’s guest is Alex Hutchinson - Alex is the New York Times bestselling author of Endure, a longtime columnist for Outside covering the science of endurance, and a National Magazine Award–winning journalist who has contributed to the New York Times, The New Yorker, and other publications. A former long-distance runner for the Canadian national team, he holds a master’s in journalism from Columbia and a Ph.D. in physics from Cambridge, and he did his post-doctoral research with the National Security Agency. He lives in Toronto with his family

In this interview, Alex reveals some hidden truths about the world of endurance and human performance including: optimal hydration levels, the importance of VO2 max and how to increase it, what really determines your endurance limits, various studies on peak human performance, and much more... 

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Alex:

Twitter: https://x.com/sweatscience 

Website: https://alexhutchinson.net/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> The Secrets of Human Performance & Endurance | Alex Hutchinson Nik Atanackovic 01:23:16 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  Today’s guest is Alex Hutchinson - Alex is the New York Times bestselling author of Endure, a longtime columnist for Outside covering the science of endurance, and a National Magazine Award–winning journalist who has contributed to the New York Times, The New Yorker, and other publications. A former long-distance runner for the Canadian national team, he holds a master’s in journalism from Columbia and a Ph.D. in physics from Cambridge, and he did his post-doctoral research with the National Security Agency. He lives in Toronto with his family In this interview, Alex reveals some hidden truths about the world of endurance and human performance including: optimal hydration levels, the importance of VO2 max and how to increase it, what really determines your endurance limits, various studies on peak human performance, and much more... As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  Today’s guest is Alex Hutchinson - Alex is the New York Times bestselling author of Endure, a longtime columnist for Outside covering the science of endurance, and a National Magazine Award–winning journalist who has contributed to the New York Times, The New Yorker, and other publications. A former long-distance runner for the Canadian national team, he holds a master’s in journalism from Columbia and a Ph.D. in physics from Cambridge, and he did his post-doctoral research with the National Security Agency. He lives in Toronto with his family In this interview, Alex reveals some hidden truths about the world of endurance and human performance including: optimal hydration levels, the importance of VO2 max and how to increase it, what really determines your endurance limits, various studies on peak human performance, and much more... As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, alex hutchinson false full 39 51bb9411-e8cd-49a0-8906-a5a2033b74f8 The Man Who Survived Descending Everest Blind and Alone | Brian Dickinson Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  

Today’s guest is Brian Dickinson - Brian served for 6 years as a US Navy air rescue swimmer before he moved to the Pacific Northwest to pursue his passion for extreme sports and mountain climbing. He has climbed expeditions on the highest peaks of the seven continents, including Kilimanjaro, McKinley, Elbrus, Kosciuszko, Vinson Massif, Aconcagua, and Everest. He is the author of “Blind Descent”, a book that highlights Brian’s journey to the summit of Mount Everest and then his descent back down, which he did blind and alone.  

In this interview, Brian and Nik discuss Brian’s experience mountain climbing, why he chose to climb Everest, the logistics of climbing Everest, the challenges involved with the summit, how he managed to climb back down blind and alone, the importance of resiliency, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Brian:

Twitter: https://x.com/BrianCDickinson

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briancdickinson/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Mon, 9 Sep 2024 22:32:02 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/the-guy-that-survived-descending-everest-blind-and-alone-brian-dickinson-xS_F_785 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  

Today’s guest is Brian Dickinson - Brian served for 6 years as a US Navy air rescue swimmer before he moved to the Pacific Northwest to pursue his passion for extreme sports and mountain climbing. He has climbed expeditions on the highest peaks of the seven continents, including Kilimanjaro, McKinley, Elbrus, Kosciuszko, Vinson Massif, Aconcagua, and Everest. He is the author of “Blind Descent”, a book that highlights Brian’s journey to the summit of Mount Everest and then his descent back down, which he did blind and alone.  

In this interview, Brian and Nik discuss Brian’s experience mountain climbing, why he chose to climb Everest, the logistics of climbing Everest, the challenges involved with the summit, how he managed to climb back down blind and alone, the importance of resiliency, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Brian:

Twitter: https://x.com/BrianCDickinson

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/briancdickinson/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> The Man Who Survived Descending Everest Blind and Alone | Brian Dickinson Nik Atanackovic 01:26:04 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way. Today’s guest is Brian Dickinson - Brian served for 6 years as a US Navy air rescue swimmer before he moved to the Pacific Northwest to pursue his passion for extreme sports and mountain climbing. He has climbed expeditions on the highest peaks of the seven continents, including Kilimanjaro, McKinley, Elbrus, Kosciuszko, Vinson Massif, Aconcagua, and Everest. He is the author of “Blind Descent”, a book that highlights Brian’s journey to the summit of Mount Everest and then his descent back down, which he did blind and alone. In this interview, Brian and Nik discuss Brian’s experience mountain climbing, why he chose to climb Everest, the logistics of climbing Everest, the challenges involved with the summit, how he managed to climb back down blind and alone, the importance of resiliency, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way. Today’s guest is Brian Dickinson - Brian served for 6 years as a US Navy air rescue swimmer before he moved to the Pacific Northwest to pursue his passion for extreme sports and mountain climbing. He has climbed expeditions on the highest peaks of the seven continents, including Kilimanjaro, McKinley, Elbrus, Kosciuszko, Vinson Massif, Aconcagua, and Everest. He is the author of “Blind Descent”, a book that highlights Brian’s journey to the summit of Mount Everest and then his descent back down, which he did blind and alone. In this interview, Brian and Nik discuss Brian’s experience mountain climbing, why he chose to climb Everest, the logistics of climbing Everest, the challenges involved with the summit, how he managed to climb back down blind and alone, the importance of resiliency, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… the victory degree, everest, victory degree, blind, brian dickinson false full 38 59e50cd9-0f42-4b19-96b1-b461b8f340d0 The Life of Aaron Rodgers: The Most Polarizing Athlete of All Time | Ian O'Connor Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  

Today’s guest is Ian O’Connor - Ian is the author of his sixth book, “Out of the Darkness: The Mystery of Aaron Rodgers.” His previous five books include four consecutive New York Times bestsellers — "Coach K: The Rise and Reign of Mike Krzyzewski,” “Belichick: The Making of the Greatest Football Coach of All Time,” "The Captain: The Journey of Derek Jeter," which the Library Journal called "excellent" and "the most complete account" of Jeter's iconic career and "Arnie & Jack: Palmer, Nicklaus, and Golf's Greatest Rivalry." O'Connor is a former ESPN.com, New York Post, USA Today, and New York Daily News columnist who has finished in 1st place 20 times in national writing contests.

In this interview, Ian & Nik discuss Ian’s latest book “Out of the Darkness: The Mystery of Aaron Rodgers.” Everything from Aaron’s upbringing to the 2005 NFL Draft to Aaron’s relationship with Brett Favre & even Aaron’s falling out with his family, this conversation sheds light on one of the more polarizing sports figures we’ve ever seen. Ian reveals all sides of an all-time great and delivers a portrait of a complex man and four-time NFL MVP that will forever shape the way football fans view him.

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Ian:

Twitter: https://x.com/Ian_OConnor

Website: https://www.ian-oconnor.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Sun, 1 Sep 2024 23:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/aaron-rodgers-Yncbb52f Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  

Today’s guest is Ian O’Connor - Ian is the author of his sixth book, “Out of the Darkness: The Mystery of Aaron Rodgers.” His previous five books include four consecutive New York Times bestsellers — "Coach K: The Rise and Reign of Mike Krzyzewski,” “Belichick: The Making of the Greatest Football Coach of All Time,” "The Captain: The Journey of Derek Jeter," which the Library Journal called "excellent" and "the most complete account" of Jeter's iconic career and "Arnie & Jack: Palmer, Nicklaus, and Golf's Greatest Rivalry." O'Connor is a former ESPN.com, New York Post, USA Today, and New York Daily News columnist who has finished in 1st place 20 times in national writing contests.

In this interview, Ian & Nik discuss Ian’s latest book “Out of the Darkness: The Mystery of Aaron Rodgers.” Everything from Aaron’s upbringing to the 2005 NFL Draft to Aaron’s relationship with Brett Favre & even Aaron’s falling out with his family, this conversation sheds light on one of the more polarizing sports figures we’ve ever seen. Ian reveals all sides of an all-time great and delivers a portrait of a complex man and four-time NFL MVP that will forever shape the way football fans view him.

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Ian:

Twitter: https://x.com/Ian_OConnor

Website: https://www.ian-oconnor.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> The Life of Aaron Rodgers: The Most Polarizing Athlete of All Time | Ian O'Connor Nik Atanackovic 00:51:58 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way. Today’s guest is Ian O’Connor - Ian is the author of his sixth book, “Out of the Darkness: The Mystery of Aaron Rodgers.” His previous five books include four consecutive New York Times bestsellers — "Coach K: The Rise and Reign of Mike Krzyzewski,” “Belichick: The Making of the Greatest Football Coach of All Time,” "The Captain: The Journey of Derek Jeter," which the Library Journal called "excellent" and "the most complete account" of Jeter's iconic career and "Arnie & Jack: Palmer, Nicklaus, and Golf's Greatest Rivalry." O'Connor is a former ESPN.com, New York Post, USA Today, and New York Daily News columnist who has finished in 1st place 20 times in national writing contests. In this interview, Ian & Nik discuss Ian’s latest book “Out of the Darkness: The Mystery of Aaron Rodgers.” Everything from Aaron’s upbringing to the 2005 NFL Draft to Aaron’s relationship with Brett Favre & even Aaron’s falling out with his family, this conversation sheds light on one of the more polarizing sports figures we’ve ever seen. Ian reveals all sides of an all-time great and delivers a portrait of a complex man and four-time NFL MVP that will forever shape the way football fans view him. As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way. Today’s guest is Ian O’Connor - Ian is the author of his sixth book, “Out of the Darkness: The Mystery of Aaron Rodgers.” His previous five books include four consecutive New York Times bestsellers — "Coach K: The Rise and Reign of Mike Krzyzewski,” “Belichick: The Making of the Greatest Football Coach of All Time,” "The Captain: The Journey of Derek Jeter," which the Library Journal called "excellent" and "the most complete account" of Jeter's iconic career and "Arnie & Jack: Palmer, Nicklaus, and Golf's Greatest Rivalry." O'Connor is a former ESPN.com, New York Post, USA Today, and New York Daily News columnist who has finished in 1st place 20 times in national writing contests. In this interview, Ian & Nik discuss Ian’s latest book “Out of the Darkness: The Mystery of Aaron Rodgers.” Everything from Aaron’s upbringing to the 2005 NFL Draft to Aaron’s relationship with Brett Favre & even Aaron’s falling out with his family, this conversation sheds light on one of the more polarizing sports figures we’ve ever seen. Ian reveals all sides of an all-time great and delivers a portrait of a complex man and four-time NFL MVP that will forever shape the way football fans view him. As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… the victory degree, ian oconnor, victory degree, aaron rodgers false full 37 09f2f7b5-192b-453a-a1fb-af08ef555779 DeShone Kizer UNFILTERED: NFL Struggles, Notre Dame, Browns, Aaron Rodgers & Death Threats Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  

Today’s guest is DeShone Kizer - a former NFL QB who doesn’t need much of an introduction. DeShone was a 4 star HS recruit and was ranked the 9th best dual threat QB in his class. But for DeShone, making it to the NFL wasn’t his only passion. He loved the idea of starting his own business one day which is why he ultimately chose to play at Notre Dame - a school that offered him a perfect blend of academics and athletics. DeShone was a highly touted prospect in the 2017 NFL Draft and ended up getting picked by the Cleveland Browns in the 2nd round. DeShone’s NFL career didn’t go as planned, as he struggled from the start. After a few years in the league, he decided to hang up the cleats and pursue entrepreneurship by starting his own company: One of None which he still runs today. 

In this interview, DeShone reveals his journey to the NFL, experience playing at Notre Dame, take us behind the scenes of the NFL Draft process, explains why he struggled in the NFL, highlights his experience playing with Aaron Rodgers, gives his best tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with DeShone:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deshonekizer/

Twitter: https://x.com/deshonekizer

One of None: https://oneofnone.io/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Tue, 27 Aug 2024 00:35:17 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/deshone-kizer-unfiltered-nfl-struggles-notre-dame-browns-aaron-rodgers-GhKnEA5T Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  

Today’s guest is DeShone Kizer - a former NFL QB who doesn’t need much of an introduction. DeShone was a 4 star HS recruit and was ranked the 9th best dual threat QB in his class. But for DeShone, making it to the NFL wasn’t his only passion. He loved the idea of starting his own business one day which is why he ultimately chose to play at Notre Dame - a school that offered him a perfect blend of academics and athletics. DeShone was a highly touted prospect in the 2017 NFL Draft and ended up getting picked by the Cleveland Browns in the 2nd round. DeShone’s NFL career didn’t go as planned, as he struggled from the start. After a few years in the league, he decided to hang up the cleats and pursue entrepreneurship by starting his own company: One of None which he still runs today. 

In this interview, DeShone reveals his journey to the NFL, experience playing at Notre Dame, take us behind the scenes of the NFL Draft process, explains why he struggled in the NFL, highlights his experience playing with Aaron Rodgers, gives his best tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with DeShone:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/deshonekizer/

Twitter: https://x.com/deshonekizer

One of None: https://oneofnone.io/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> DeShone Kizer UNFILTERED: NFL Struggles, Notre Dame, Browns, Aaron Rodgers & Death Threats Nik Atanackovic 01:38:09 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way. Today’s guest is DeShone Kizer - a former NFL QB who doesn’t need much of an introduction. DeShone was a 4 star HS recruit and was ranked the 9th best dual threat QB in his class. But for DeShone, making it to the NFL wasn’t his only passion. He loved the idea of starting his own business one day which is why he ultimately chose to play at Notre Dame - a school that offered him a perfect blend of academics and athletics. DeShone was a highly touted prospect in the 2017 NFL Draft and ended up getting picked by the Cleveland Browns in the 2nd round. DeShone’s NFL career didn’t go as planned, as he struggled from the start. After a few years in the league, he decided to hang up the cleats and pursue entrepreneurship by starting his own company: One of None which he still runs today. In this interview, DeShone reveals his journey to the NFL, experience playing at Notre Dame, take us behind the scenes of the NFL Draft process, explains why he struggled in the NFL, highlights his experience playing with Aaron Rodgers, gives his best tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way. Today’s guest is DeShone Kizer - a former NFL QB who doesn’t need much of an introduction. DeShone was a 4 star HS recruit and was ranked the 9th best dual threat QB in his class. But for DeShone, making it to the NFL wasn’t his only passion. He loved the idea of starting his own business one day which is why he ultimately chose to play at Notre Dame - a school that offered him a perfect blend of academics and athletics. DeShone was a highly touted prospect in the 2017 NFL Draft and ended up getting picked by the Cleveland Browns in the 2nd round. DeShone’s NFL career didn’t go as planned, as he struggled from the start. After a few years in the league, he decided to hang up the cleats and pursue entrepreneurship by starting his own company: One of None which he still runs today. In this interview, DeShone reveals his journey to the NFL, experience playing at Notre Dame, take us behind the scenes of the NFL Draft process, explains why he struggled in the NFL, highlights his experience playing with Aaron Rodgers, gives his best tips for aspiring entrepreneurs, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… nfl, deshone kizer, the victory degree, victory degree, cleveland browns, nik atanackovic, nik false full 36 f97d1c72-c5e9-4d46-be98-83fb319540c4 Eddie Lack Tells ALL: Journey to NHL, NHL Scouting Reports, Playing in Vancouver & Goalie Psychology Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  

Today’s guest is Eddie Lack - Eddie is a former professional NHL goalie whose playing career involved stints with the Vancouver Canucks, Carolina Hurricanes, Calgary Flames, and New Jersey Devils. Eddie’s hockey career started in 2004 in Sweden but it took 5 grueling years for Eddie to finally make it to the NHL. Although he went undrafted in the 2009 draft, his tenacity & hard work ultimately paid off as he became both a starting goalie and fan favorite in Vancouver. Eddie’s playing days came to an end in March, 2020 as he hung up his skates one last time. Next for Eddie was a career in real estate which is what still keeps him busy nowadays. 

In this interview, Eddie reveals his journey to hockey, the grind of an NHL season, how he remained focused and present during a game, how he managed his money while in the NHL, the power of consistency, why goalies take longer to develop, why he chose real estate, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know.

Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Eddie Lack:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eddielack31/

Twitter: https://x.com/eddielack

Website: https://www.eddielack.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Sun, 18 Aug 2024 20:47:25 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/eddie-lack-tells-all-journey-to-nhl-nhl-scouting-reports-vancouver-goalie-psychology-28vd6FZa Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  

Today’s guest is Eddie Lack - Eddie is a former professional NHL goalie whose playing career involved stints with the Vancouver Canucks, Carolina Hurricanes, Calgary Flames, and New Jersey Devils. Eddie’s hockey career started in 2004 in Sweden but it took 5 grueling years for Eddie to finally make it to the NHL. Although he went undrafted in the 2009 draft, his tenacity & hard work ultimately paid off as he became both a starting goalie and fan favorite in Vancouver. Eddie’s playing days came to an end in March, 2020 as he hung up his skates one last time. Next for Eddie was a career in real estate which is what still keeps him busy nowadays. 

In this interview, Eddie reveals his journey to hockey, the grind of an NHL season, how he remained focused and present during a game, how he managed his money while in the NHL, the power of consistency, why goalies take longer to develop, why he chose real estate, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know.

Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with Eddie Lack:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/eddielack31/

Twitter: https://x.com/eddielack

Website: https://www.eddielack.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Eddie Lack Tells ALL: Journey to NHL, NHL Scouting Reports, Playing in Vancouver & Goalie Psychology Nik Atanackovic 01:00:23 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way. Today’s guest is Eddie Lack - Eddie is a former professional NHL goalie whose playing career involved stints with the Vancouver Canucks, Carolina Hurricanes, Calgary Flames, and New Jersey Devils. Eddie’s hockey career started in 2004 in Sweden but it took 5 grueling years for Eddie to finally make it to the NHL. Although he went undrafted in the 2009 draft, his tenacity & hard work ultimately paid off as he became both a starting goalie and fan favorite in Vancouver. Eddie’s playing days came to an end in March, 2020 as he hung up his skates one last time. Next for Eddie was a career in real estate which is what still keeps him busy nowadays. In this interview, Eddie reveals his journey to hockey, the grind of an NHL season, how he remained focused and present during a game, how he managed his money while in the NHL, the power of consistency, why goalies take longer to develop, why he chose real estate, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way. Today’s guest is Eddie Lack - Eddie is a former professional NHL goalie whose playing career involved stints with the Vancouver Canucks, Carolina Hurricanes, Calgary Flames, and New Jersey Devils. Eddie’s hockey career started in 2004 in Sweden but it took 5 grueling years for Eddie to finally make it to the NHL. Although he went undrafted in the 2009 draft, his tenacity & hard work ultimately paid off as he became both a starting goalie and fan favorite in Vancouver. Eddie’s playing days came to an end in March, 2020 as he hung up his skates one last time. Next for Eddie was a career in real estate which is what still keeps him busy nowadays. In this interview, Eddie reveals his journey to hockey, the grind of an NHL season, how he remained focused and present during a game, how he managed his money while in the NHL, the power of consistency, why goalies take longer to develop, why he chose real estate, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. eddie lack, real estate, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, nhl false full 35 332ea41d-b9d3-4e76-93cc-f4b2232245ce Life Changing Insights from Running 7 Marathons on 7 Continents in 7 Days | David Kilgore Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  

Today’s guest is David Kilgore - David may be one of the world’s greatest endurance athletes, but his route to the top is perhaps not what you would expect from an ultra-runner. While David did compete in traditional competitions during his college years, he also spent much of his youth chasing alligators through swamps in his home state of Florida. And it’s this fearless nature that has helped him achieve some incredible results. A four-time Florida state track and cross country champion and All-American runner, David soon began to compete in more challenging events and push his body to the limit. Now part of the US World Trail and Ultra team, he’s used to covering huge distances. In 2020, he ran 100 miles in a single day to raise money for charity, and the following year ran the entire circumference of Manhattan. But perhaps his most remarkable feat to date was participating in and winning the World Marathon Challenge. This saw David and 34 other hand-selected runners compete in seven marathons in seven days across seven continents.

In this interview, David reveals his journey to running, how he pushes himself past his own limit, his training regimen for ultramarathons, the life changing insights he had from running 7 marathons in 7 days across 7 continents, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with David Kilgore:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidkilgore/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.kilgore.98/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Sun, 11 Aug 2024 17:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/life-changing-insights-from-running-7-marathons-on-7-continents-in-7-days-david-kilgore-C7ASg4F5 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way.  

Today’s guest is David Kilgore - David may be one of the world’s greatest endurance athletes, but his route to the top is perhaps not what you would expect from an ultra-runner. While David did compete in traditional competitions during his college years, he also spent much of his youth chasing alligators through swamps in his home state of Florida. And it’s this fearless nature that has helped him achieve some incredible results. A four-time Florida state track and cross country champion and All-American runner, David soon began to compete in more challenging events and push his body to the limit. Now part of the US World Trail and Ultra team, he’s used to covering huge distances. In 2020, he ran 100 miles in a single day to raise money for charity, and the following year ran the entire circumference of Manhattan. But perhaps his most remarkable feat to date was participating in and winning the World Marathon Challenge. This saw David and 34 other hand-selected runners compete in seven marathons in seven days across seven continents.

In this interview, David reveals his journey to running, how he pushes himself past his own limit, his training regimen for ultramarathons, the life changing insights he had from running 7 marathons in 7 days across 7 continents, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

Episodes You May Enjoy:

Josh Dobbs

Spotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXu

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVB

George Mumford

Spotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaR

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBR

Dr. Jim Loehr

Spotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8

Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Connect with David Kilgore:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/davidkilgore/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/david.kilgore.98/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegree

]]> Life Changing Insights from Running 7 Marathons on 7 Continents in 7 Days | David Kilgore Nik Atanackovic 01:04:34 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way. Today’s guest is David Kilgore - David may be one of the world’s greatest endurance athletes, but his route to the top is perhaps not what you would expect from an ultra-runner. While David did compete in traditional competitions during his college years, he also spent much of his youth chasing alligators through swamps in his home state of Florida. And it’s this fearless nature that has helped him achieve some incredible results. A four-time Florida state track and cross country champion and All-American runner, David soon began to compete in more challenging events and push his body to the limit. Now part of the US World Trail and Ultra team, he’s used to covering huge distances. In 2020, he ran 100 miles in a single day to raise money for charity, and the following year ran the entire circumference of Manhattan. But perhaps his most remarkable feat to date was participating in and winning the World Marathon Challenge. This saw David and 34 other hand-selected runners compete in seven marathons in seven days across seven continents. In this interview, David reveals his journey to running, how he pushes himself past his own limit, his training regimen for ultramarathons, the life changing insights he had from running 7 marathons in 7 days across 7 continents, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to dive into the minds of high performers, in sports and related fields, to uncover their long road to success and the tools & strategies they picked up along the way. Today’s guest is David Kilgore - David may be one of the world’s greatest endurance athletes, but his route to the top is perhaps not what you would expect from an ultra-runner. While David did compete in traditional competitions during his college years, he also spent much of his youth chasing alligators through swamps in his home state of Florida. And it’s this fearless nature that has helped him achieve some incredible results. A four-time Florida state track and cross country champion and All-American runner, David soon began to compete in more challenging events and push his body to the limit. Now part of the US World Trail and Ultra team, he’s used to covering huge distances. In 2020, he ran 100 miles in a single day to raise money for charity, and the following year ran the entire circumference of Manhattan. But perhaps his most remarkable feat to date was participating in and winning the World Marathon Challenge. This saw David and 34 other hand-selected runners compete in seven marathons in seven days across seven continents. In this interview, David reveals his journey to running, how he pushes himself past his own limit, his training regimen for ultramarathons, the life changing insights he had from running 7 marathons in 7 days across 7 continents, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… david kilgore, the victory degree, ultramarathon, victory degree, nik atanackovic, ultrarunning false full 34 7ac161ac-5a3b-43bf-b8dc-4e0ae49736fd Dr. Jim Loehr ON: Mental Toughness, Ideal Performance State & Working w/Tennis Greats Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Dr. Jim Loehr - a World-renowned performance psychologist, New York Times bestselling author, Co-founder, & Coach. Dr. Loehr has worked with hundreds of world-class performers from the arenas of sport, business, medicine and law enforcement, including Fortune 100 executives, FBI Hostage Rescue Teams, and military Special Forces. Dr. Loehr’s sports clients include 17 number ones in the world in their respective sports, multiple clients from professional tennis, golf, basketball, football, hockey, boxing, race car driving and the Olympics. He has applied his methodology to both individuals and entire teams. From his more than 30 years of experience and applied research, Dr. Loehr believes the single most important factor in successful achievement, personal fulfillment and life satisfaction is the strength of one’s character. Dr. Jim Loehr is a world-renowned performance psychologist, whose ground-breaking, science-based energy management training system has achieved worldwide recognition. Dr. Loehr has been chronicled in leading national publications, including: Fortune, Harvard Business Review, US News Report and has been featured on NBC’s Today Show and The Oprah Winfrey Show. 

In this interview, Dr. Loehr reveals his journey to sports psychology, what mental toughness is and how to increase it, how the best tennis players in the world stay mentally tough during a match, the power of your inner voice and how to harness it to achieve greatness, how to build up your resiliency, the idea of an ideal performance state, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) The Gift of Sport

(04:16) Sports Psychology in the 80's

(13:10) The Psychological Struggles of Tennis Players

(21:07) Learning From Athletes

(25:15) Inner Voice

(42:31) The Perils of Competition

(45:54) Dan Jansen

(54:50) Modern Day Struggles of Athletes

(59:09) How To Become More Resilient 

(01:01:25) Ideal Performance State

(01:06:06) Novak Djokovic: GOAT?

(01:13:17) Athletes Dr. Loehr Wishes He Worked With

(01:17:51) Proudest Moments

(01:22:23) Life Advice

Connect with Dr. Jim Loehr:

Website: www.jim-loehr.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jim-loehr/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Sun, 4 Aug 2024 17:30:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/dr-jim-loehr-on-mental-toughness-ideal-performance-state-working-w-tennis-greats-3X5eths4 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Dr. Jim Loehr - a World-renowned performance psychologist, New York Times bestselling author, Co-founder, & Coach. Dr. Loehr has worked with hundreds of world-class performers from the arenas of sport, business, medicine and law enforcement, including Fortune 100 executives, FBI Hostage Rescue Teams, and military Special Forces. Dr. Loehr’s sports clients include 17 number ones in the world in their respective sports, multiple clients from professional tennis, golf, basketball, football, hockey, boxing, race car driving and the Olympics. He has applied his methodology to both individuals and entire teams. From his more than 30 years of experience and applied research, Dr. Loehr believes the single most important factor in successful achievement, personal fulfillment and life satisfaction is the strength of one’s character. Dr. Jim Loehr is a world-renowned performance psychologist, whose ground-breaking, science-based energy management training system has achieved worldwide recognition. Dr. Loehr has been chronicled in leading national publications, including: Fortune, Harvard Business Review, US News Report and has been featured on NBC’s Today Show and The Oprah Winfrey Show. 

In this interview, Dr. Loehr reveals his journey to sports psychology, what mental toughness is and how to increase it, how the best tennis players in the world stay mentally tough during a match, the power of your inner voice and how to harness it to achieve greatness, how to build up your resiliency, the idea of an ideal performance state, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) The Gift of Sport

(04:16) Sports Psychology in the 80's

(13:10) The Psychological Struggles of Tennis Players

(21:07) Learning From Athletes

(25:15) Inner Voice

(42:31) The Perils of Competition

(45:54) Dan Jansen

(54:50) Modern Day Struggles of Athletes

(59:09) How To Become More Resilient 

(01:01:25) Ideal Performance State

(01:06:06) Novak Djokovic: GOAT?

(01:13:17) Athletes Dr. Loehr Wishes He Worked With

(01:17:51) Proudest Moments

(01:22:23) Life Advice

Connect with Dr. Jim Loehr:

Website: www.jim-loehr.com

LinkedIn: www.linkedin.com/in/jim-loehr/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Dr. Jim Loehr ON: Mental Toughness, Ideal Performance State & Working w/Tennis Greats Nik Atanackovic 01:26:09 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Dr. Jim Loehr - a World-renowned performance psychologist, New York Times bestselling author, Co-founder, & Coach. Dr. Loehr has worked with hundreds of world-class performers from the arenas of sport, business, medicine and law enforcement, including Fortune 100 executives, FBI Hostage Rescue Teams, and military Special Forces. Dr. Loehr’s sports clients include 17 number ones in the world in their respective sports, multiple clients from professional tennis, golf, basketball, football, hockey, boxing, race car driving and the Olympics. He has applied his methodology to both individuals and entire teams. From his more than 30 years of experience and applied research, Dr. Loehr believes the single most important factor in successful achievement, personal fulfilment and life satisfaction is the strength of one’s character. Dr. Jim Loehr is a world-renowned performance psychologist, whose ground-breaking, science-based energy management training system has achieved worldwide recognition. Dr. Loehr has been chronicled in leading national publications, including: Fortune, Harvard Business Review, US News Report and has been featured on NBC’s Today Show and The Oprah Winfrey Show. In this interview, Dr. Loehr reveals his journey to sports psychology, what mental toughness is and how to increase it, how the best tennis players in the world stay mentally tough during a match, the power of your inner voice and how to harness it to achieve greatness, how to build up your resiliency, the idea of an ideal performance state, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Dr. Jim Loehr - a World-renowned performance psychologist, New York Times bestselling author, Co-founder, & Coach. Dr. Loehr has worked with hundreds of world-class performers from the arenas of sport, business, medicine and law enforcement, including Fortune 100 executives, FBI Hostage Rescue Teams, and military Special Forces. Dr. Loehr’s sports clients include 17 number ones in the world in their respective sports, multiple clients from professional tennis, golf, basketball, football, hockey, boxing, race car driving and the Olympics. He has applied his methodology to both individuals and entire teams. From his more than 30 years of experience and applied research, Dr. Loehr believes the single most important factor in successful achievement, personal fulfilment and life satisfaction is the strength of one’s character. Dr. Jim Loehr is a world-renowned performance psychologist, whose ground-breaking, science-based energy management training system has achieved worldwide recognition. Dr. Loehr has been chronicled in leading national publications, including: Fortune, Harvard Business Review, US News Report and has been featured on NBC’s Today Show and The Oprah Winfrey Show. In this interview, Dr. Loehr reveals his journey to sports psychology, what mental toughness is and how to increase it, how the best tennis players in the world stay mentally tough during a match, the power of your inner voice and how to harness it to achieve greatness, how to build up your resiliency, the idea of an ideal performance state, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… loehr, sports, the victory degree, tennis, victory degree, jim loehr false full 33 c9861da4-5f78-4810-b63e-7de5c44a8ac7 Frank the Tank ON: Journey to Barstool, Miami Dolphins, Sports Conspiracies & Content Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Frank Fleming aka Frank the Tank. If you follow Barstool Sports, then you know Frank as the diehard Mets, Dolphins, Devils, and recently converted Knicks fan. His over the top rants combined with his insane knowledge of sports history have earned him a huge base of loyal supporters online. Before Barstool, Frank was a court clerk, substitute teacher, and frequent user of the New Jersey Transit System. Little did Frank know that a viral rant about NJ Transit was about to change his life forever…

In this interview, Frank reveals his journey to Barstool, how he built one of the largest sports history websites in the world, the crime that was the 02’ Lakers/Kings playoff series, his insane weight loss journey, an array of stats and facts about the 4 major North American sports leagues, a rant about the Miami Dolphins, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) US Soccer

(05:00) Pre Barstool Days

(08:36) SportsEcyclopedia.com

(12:46) NBA in the 80's & 90's

(19:46) 02' Kings Lakers Playoff Series

(23:09) Sports Conspiracies 

(25:56) Hard Rock Stadium

(28:00) Becoming a Dolphins Fan

(31:32) Working at Barstool

(36:01) Frank Walks

(38:15) Sports History

(54:56) Insane Dolphins Story

(58:55) How to Fix the Dolphins

(01:01:29) Life Advice

Connect with Frank:

Twitter: https://x.com/NjTank99

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/njtank1975/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Sun, 28 Jul 2024 23:05:52 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/frank-the-tank-on-journey-to-barstool-miami-dolphins-sports-conspiracies-content-skTrQjq5 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Frank Fleming aka Frank the Tank. If you follow Barstool Sports, then you know Frank as the diehard Mets, Dolphins, Devils, and recently converted Knicks fan. His over the top rants combined with his insane knowledge of sports history have earned him a huge base of loyal supporters online. Before Barstool, Frank was a court clerk, substitute teacher, and frequent user of the New Jersey Transit System. Little did Frank know that a viral rant about NJ Transit was about to change his life forever…

In this interview, Frank reveals his journey to Barstool, how he built one of the largest sports history websites in the world, the crime that was the 02’ Lakers/Kings playoff series, his insane weight loss journey, an array of stats and facts about the 4 major North American sports leagues, a rant about the Miami Dolphins, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) US Soccer

(05:00) Pre Barstool Days

(08:36) SportsEcyclopedia.com

(12:46) NBA in the 80's & 90's

(19:46) 02' Kings Lakers Playoff Series

(23:09) Sports Conspiracies 

(25:56) Hard Rock Stadium

(28:00) Becoming a Dolphins Fan

(31:32) Working at Barstool

(36:01) Frank Walks

(38:15) Sports History

(54:56) Insane Dolphins Story

(58:55) How to Fix the Dolphins

(01:01:29) Life Advice

Connect with Frank:

Twitter: https://x.com/NjTank99

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/njtank1975/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Frank the Tank ON: Journey to Barstool, Miami Dolphins, Sports Conspiracies & Content Nik Atanackovic 01:06:35 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Frank Fleming aka Frank the Tank. If you follow Barstool Sports, then you know Frank as the diehard Mets, Dolphins, Devils, and recently converted Knicks fan. His over the top rants combined with his insane knowledge of sports history have earned him a huge base of loyal supporters online. Before Barstool, Frank was a court clerk, substitute teacher, and frequent user of the New Jersey Transit System. Little did Frank know that a viral rant about NJ Transit was about to change his life forever… In this interview, Frank reveals his journey to Barstool, how he built one of the largest sports history websites in the world, the crime that was the 02’ Lakers/Kings playoff series, his insane weight loss journey, an array of stats and facts about the 4 major North American sports leagues, a rant about the Miami Dolphins, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Frank Fleming aka Frank the Tank. If you follow Barstool Sports, then you know Frank as the diehard Mets, Dolphins, Devils, and recently converted Knicks fan. His over the top rants combined with his insane knowledge of sports history have earned him a huge base of loyal supporters online. Before Barstool, Frank was a court clerk, substitute teacher, and frequent user of the New Jersey Transit System. Little did Frank know that a viral rant about NJ Transit was about to change his life forever… In this interview, Frank reveals his journey to Barstool, how he built one of the largest sports history websites in the world, the crime that was the 02’ Lakers/Kings playoff series, his insane weight loss journey, an array of stats and facts about the 4 major North American sports leagues, a rant about the Miami Dolphins, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… frank the tank, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, frank fleming, barstool sports false full 32 002b2769-7571-485e-b847-b86befa88b61 Merril Hoge Tells All: Surviving Cancer, Terrible NFL Draft Combine, Hunting w/Big Ben & Overcoming Self-Doubt Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Merril Hoge. Merril was a running back in the NFL for 8 seasons for both the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Bears. Hoge’s NFL career saw him amass 3139 rushing yards and 34 touchdowns before having to retire due to a concussion misdiagnosis. Merril went on to have a successful career as a sports personality on ESPN before being laid off in 2017. Merril’s journey has been full of ups and downs: from losing his mother at the age of 19 to being diagnosed with cancer in 2003 to having open heart surgery in 2015. Despite all these challenges, Merril has always been able to “find a way.”  

In this interview, Merril reveals his journey to the NFL, how he deals with moments of self-doubt, how he’s been able to navigate tragedy and life’s toughest challenges, his abysmal draft combine experience, what he has learned from hunting with Big Ben, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Intro 

(02:08) Johnny Manziel 

(03:59) Find a Way

(13:13) How To Defeat Self-Doubt

(18:57) How Merril Dealt With His Mother Passing Away

(24:45) Merril's Draft Combine

(30:00) Concussion Misdiagnosis 

(39:01) Cancer & Open-Heart Surgery 

(47:58) Happiness 

(54:01) Hunting With Big Ben 

(01:00:06) Life Advice

Connect with Merril:

Twitter: x.com/merrilhoge

Instagram: www.instagram.com/merrilhoge/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Sun, 21 Jul 2024 21:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/merril-hoge-tells-all-surviving-cancer-terrible-nfl-draft-combine-hunting-w-big-ben-overcoming-self-doubt-MpKuKCgU Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Merril Hoge. Merril was a running back in the NFL for 8 seasons for both the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Bears. Hoge’s NFL career saw him amass 3139 rushing yards and 34 touchdowns before having to retire due to a concussion misdiagnosis. Merril went on to have a successful career as a sports personality on ESPN before being laid off in 2017. Merril’s journey has been full of ups and downs: from losing his mother at the age of 19 to being diagnosed with cancer in 2003 to having open heart surgery in 2015. Despite all these challenges, Merril has always been able to “find a way.”  

In this interview, Merril reveals his journey to the NFL, how he deals with moments of self-doubt, how he’s been able to navigate tragedy and life’s toughest challenges, his abysmal draft combine experience, what he has learned from hunting with Big Ben, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Intro 

(02:08) Johnny Manziel 

(03:59) Find a Way

(13:13) How To Defeat Self-Doubt

(18:57) How Merril Dealt With His Mother Passing Away

(24:45) Merril's Draft Combine

(30:00) Concussion Misdiagnosis 

(39:01) Cancer & Open-Heart Surgery 

(47:58) Happiness 

(54:01) Hunting With Big Ben 

(01:00:06) Life Advice

Connect with Merril:

Twitter: x.com/merrilhoge

Instagram: www.instagram.com/merrilhoge/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Merril Hoge Tells All: Surviving Cancer, Terrible NFL Draft Combine, Hunting w/Big Ben & Overcoming Self-Doubt Nik Atanackovic 01:05:57 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Merril Hoge. Merril was a running back in the NFL for 8 seasons for both the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Bears. Hoge’s NFL career saw him amass 3139 rushing yards and 34 touchdowns before having to retire due to a concussion misdiagnosis. Merril went on to have a successful career as a sports personality on ESPN before being laid off in 2017. Merril’s journey has been full of ups and downs: from losing his mother at the age of 19 to being diagnosed with cancer in 2003 to having open heart surgery in 2015. Despite all these challenges, Merril has always been able to “find a way.” In this interview, Merril reveals his journey to the NFL, how he deals with moments of self-doubt, how he’s been able to navigate tragedy and life’s toughest challenges, his abysmal draft combine experience, what he has learned from hunting with Big Ben, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Merril Hoge. Merril was a running back in the NFL for 8 seasons for both the Pittsburgh Steelers and Chicago Bears. Hoge’s NFL career saw him amass 3139 rushing yards and 34 touchdowns before having to retire due to a concussion misdiagnosis. Merril went on to have a successful career as a sports personality on ESPN before being laid off in 2017. Merril’s journey has been full of ups and downs: from losing his mother at the age of 19 to being diagnosed with cancer in 2003 to having open heart surgery in 2015. Despite all these challenges, Merril has always been able to “find a way.” In this interview, Merril reveals his journey to the NFL, how he deals with moments of self-doubt, how he’s been able to navigate tragedy and life’s toughest challenges, his abysmal draft combine experience, what he has learned from hunting with Big Ben, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, merril hoge false full 31 84032b3b-6f71-4670-bf05-7f24a5072a6a TeeTee Terry ON: Power of Discipline, Paris Olympics, Running With Intention & George Mumford Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is TeeTee Terry. TeeTee is a 2 time track and field world champion who specialized in the women’s 100 and 200 meter sprints. She’s a 2 time gold medalist in the 4x1 relay, set a school record at USC, and recently qualified for the Paris Olympics representing Team USA. TeeTee made Junior Olympics her first year in track and field and is quickly becoming one of the fastest women in the world. TeeTee is easily recognizable from her signature double ponytails, loves DIY projects, and has a passion for working with kids.

In this interview, TeeTee reveals her journey to track and field, what she’s looking forward to in the Paris Olympics, the reality of being an olympian, how she gets her mind right before and during a race, the power of discipline, her takeaways from working with George Mumford, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

TIMESTAMPS

(02:01) Who is TeeTee?

(03:39) Relationship w/Parents

(09:07) Is Passion Real?

(11:21) TeeTee's Relationship w/Track

(13:06) Motivation 

(15:15) Behind the Scenes Look at the Olympics

(19:14) Difficulty of Competing in 100m Sprint

(21:30) Pre-Race Routine

(23:07) Experience at USC

(26:11) Discipline 

(30:17) Priorities 

(31:07) Intention

(32:06) George Mumford

(39:06) Mindset During a Race

(41:01) Is Winning as Fun As It Seems?

(46:06) Criticism 

(49:38) Role Models

(52:09) Paris Olympics

(54:12) Sports Broadcaster

(55:16) Advice to Kids

(57:06) Plans After Track

(57:22) Life Advice

Connect with TeeTee:

Twitter: https://x.com/TeeTeeTerry_

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canonlybeme__/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Sun, 14 Jul 2024 17:40:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/teetee-terry-on-power-of-discipline-paris-olympics-running-with-intention-george-mumford-_dlOmXIq Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is TeeTee Terry. TeeTee is a 2 time track and field world champion who specialized in the women’s 100 and 200 meter sprints. She’s a 2 time gold medalist in the 4x1 relay, set a school record at USC, and recently qualified for the Paris Olympics representing Team USA. TeeTee made Junior Olympics her first year in track and field and is quickly becoming one of the fastest women in the world. TeeTee is easily recognizable from her signature double ponytails, loves DIY projects, and has a passion for working with kids.

In this interview, TeeTee reveals her journey to track and field, what she’s looking forward to in the Paris Olympics, the reality of being an olympian, how she gets her mind right before and during a race, the power of discipline, her takeaways from working with George Mumford, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

TIMESTAMPS

(02:01) Who is TeeTee?

(03:39) Relationship w/Parents

(09:07) Is Passion Real?

(11:21) TeeTee's Relationship w/Track

(13:06) Motivation 

(15:15) Behind the Scenes Look at the Olympics

(19:14) Difficulty of Competing in 100m Sprint

(21:30) Pre-Race Routine

(23:07) Experience at USC

(26:11) Discipline 

(30:17) Priorities 

(31:07) Intention

(32:06) George Mumford

(39:06) Mindset During a Race

(41:01) Is Winning as Fun As It Seems?

(46:06) Criticism 

(49:38) Role Models

(52:09) Paris Olympics

(54:12) Sports Broadcaster

(55:16) Advice to Kids

(57:06) Plans After Track

(57:22) Life Advice

Connect with TeeTee:

Twitter: https://x.com/TeeTeeTerry_

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/canonlybeme__/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> TeeTee Terry ON: Power of Discipline, Paris Olympics, Running With Intention & George Mumford Nik Atanackovic 01:00:11 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is TeeTee Terry. TeeTee is a 2 time track and field world champion who specialized in the women’s 100 and 200 meter sprints. She’s a 2 time gold medalist in the 4x1 relay, set a school record at USC, and recently qualified for the Paris Olympics representing Team USA. TeeTee made Junior Olympics her first year in track and field and is quickly becoming one of the fastest women in the world. TeeTee is easily recognizable from her signature double ponytails, loves DIY projects, and has a passion for working with kids. In this interview, TeeTee reveals her journey to track and field, what she’s looking forward to in the Paris Olympics, the reality of being an olympian, how she gets her mind right before and during a race, the power of discipline, her takeaways from working with George Mumford, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is TeeTee Terry. TeeTee is a 2 time track and field world champion who specialized in the women’s 100 and 200 meter sprints. She’s a 2 time gold medalist in the 4x1 relay, set a school record at USC, and recently qualified for the Paris Olympics representing Team USA. TeeTee made Junior Olympics her first year in track and field and is quickly becoming one of the fastest women in the world. TeeTee is easily recognizable from her signature double ponytails, loves DIY projects, and has a passion for working with kids. In this interview, TeeTee reveals her journey to track and field, what she’s looking forward to in the Paris Olympics, the reality of being an olympian, how she gets her mind right before and during a race, the power of discipline, her takeaways from working with George Mumford, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… teetee terry, paris olympics, the victory degree, twanisha terry, victory degree, nik atanackovic, olympics false full 30 310ad4aa-2789-45ff-b6c2-f7186ef320ec Jimmy Traina ON: Future of Sports Media, Downsides of Working in Sports, Interviewing Ryen Russillo, Bill Simmons & Charles Barkley & The Office Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Jimmy Traina. Jimmy has been with Sports Illustrated since 2000, covering the world of sports and sports media in various capacities. He has been writing daily sports columns since 2007 and has been the host of the Sports Illustrated Media Podcast since 2017 interviewing athletes and media personalities like Tom Brady, Derek Jeter, Charles Barkley, Bill Simmons, Ryen Russilo, Pat McAfee, and more.

In this interview, Jimmy explains why New Haven Pizza is overrated, how he landed a job at Sports Illustrated, what separates great broadcasters like Kevin Harlan and Mike Breen from everyone else, the future of sports media, the grind of writing a daily sports column, what he’s learned from interviewing Ryen Russillo, Bill Simmons, Charles Barkley, Scott Hansen, Pat McAfee, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Intro

(03:22) Worst Tuesday of the Year?

(04:08) Working From Home

(06:00) New Haven Pizza

(10:30) How Jimmy Got Into Sports

(14:54) Sports as a Career

(16:09) Sports Broadcasting

(19:54) How to Deal With Criticism

(22:17) How Twitter Changed Sports

(24:21) Athlete Podcasts & Future of Sports Media

(28:37) The Optimal TV Setup

(32:28) Streaming Platforms

(33:29) How Fantasy & Gambling Have Changed the NFL

(36:00) The Grind of Writing a Daily Sports Column

(40:04) Getting Into Sports Media

(44:17) Starting a Podcast in 2017

(49:08) Jimmy's Interview Style

(55:38) Ryen Russillo

(56:57) Bill Simmons

(58:16) Charles Barkley

(61:10) Scott Hansen

(01:02:21) Pat McAfee

(01:07:55) Downsides of Working in Sports

(01:11:24) Jimmy's Favorite Character from The Office

(01:14:19) The Legacy of Bill Walton

(01:17:00) Life Advice

Connect with Jimmy: 

Twitter: https://x.com/JimmyTraina

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimmytraina/

SI Media Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/si-media-with-jimmy-traina/id997819235

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Mon, 8 Jul 2024 00:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/jimmy-traina-on-future-of-sports-media-sports-as-a-career-interviewing-ryen-russillo-bill-simmons-charles-barkley-the-office-BsmmdA6t Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Jimmy Traina. Jimmy has been with Sports Illustrated since 2000, covering the world of sports and sports media in various capacities. He has been writing daily sports columns since 2007 and has been the host of the Sports Illustrated Media Podcast since 2017 interviewing athletes and media personalities like Tom Brady, Derek Jeter, Charles Barkley, Bill Simmons, Ryen Russilo, Pat McAfee, and more.

In this interview, Jimmy explains why New Haven Pizza is overrated, how he landed a job at Sports Illustrated, what separates great broadcasters like Kevin Harlan and Mike Breen from everyone else, the future of sports media, the grind of writing a daily sports column, what he’s learned from interviewing Ryen Russillo, Bill Simmons, Charles Barkley, Scott Hansen, Pat McAfee, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Intro

(03:22) Worst Tuesday of the Year?

(04:08) Working From Home

(06:00) New Haven Pizza

(10:30) How Jimmy Got Into Sports

(14:54) Sports as a Career

(16:09) Sports Broadcasting

(19:54) How to Deal With Criticism

(22:17) How Twitter Changed Sports

(24:21) Athlete Podcasts & Future of Sports Media

(28:37) The Optimal TV Setup

(32:28) Streaming Platforms

(33:29) How Fantasy & Gambling Have Changed the NFL

(36:00) The Grind of Writing a Daily Sports Column

(40:04) Getting Into Sports Media

(44:17) Starting a Podcast in 2017

(49:08) Jimmy's Interview Style

(55:38) Ryen Russillo

(56:57) Bill Simmons

(58:16) Charles Barkley

(61:10) Scott Hansen

(01:02:21) Pat McAfee

(01:07:55) Downsides of Working in Sports

(01:11:24) Jimmy's Favorite Character from The Office

(01:14:19) The Legacy of Bill Walton

(01:17:00) Life Advice

Connect with Jimmy: 

Twitter: https://x.com/JimmyTraina

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jimmytraina/

SI Media Podcast: https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/si-media-with-jimmy-traina/id997819235

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Jimmy Traina ON: Future of Sports Media, Downsides of Working in Sports, Interviewing Ryen Russillo, Bill Simmons & Charles Barkley & The Office Nik Atanackovic 01:17:40 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Jimmy Traina. Jimmy has been with Sports Illustrated since 2000, covering the world of sports and sports media in various capacities. He has been writing daily sports columns since 2007 and has been the host of the Sports Illustrated Media Podcast since 2017 interviewing athletes and media personalities like Tom Brady, Derek Jeter, Charles Barkley, Bill Simmons, Ryen Russilo, Pat McAfee, and more. In this interview, Jimmy explains why New Haven Pizza is overrated, how he landed a job at Sports Illustrated, what separates great broadcasters like Kevin Harlan and Mike Breen from everyone else, the future of sports media, the grind of writing a daily sports column, what he’s learned from interviewing Ryen Russilo, Bill Simmons, Charles Barkley, Scott Hansen, Pat McAfee, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Jimmy Traina. Jimmy has been with Sports Illustrated since 2000, covering the world of sports and sports media in various capacities. He has been writing daily sports columns since 2007 and has been the host of the Sports Illustrated Media Podcast since 2017 interviewing athletes and media personalities like Tom Brady, Derek Jeter, Charles Barkley, Bill Simmons, Ryen Russilo, Pat McAfee, and more. In this interview, Jimmy explains why New Haven Pizza is overrated, how he landed a job at Sports Illustrated, what separates great broadcasters like Kevin Harlan and Mike Breen from everyone else, the future of sports media, the grind of writing a daily sports column, what he’s learned from interviewing Ryen Russilo, Bill Simmons, Charles Barkley, Scott Hansen, Pat McAfee, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… the victory degree, jimmy traina, sports media, victory degree, nik atanackovic, nik false full 29 0b18fbcb-9621-4faf-aa70-272e66141e90 World Renowned Sports Performance Coach Allistair McCaw Tells All: Working With Grand Slam Champions, Building Habits That Last, Learning From Coach K, And Why Mindset Is Your Superpower Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Allistair McCaw. Allistair is a sports performance and mindset coach who has worked with extraordinary athletes and olympians like Kevin Anderson, Xavier Malisse, and many others. Allistair’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable as he grew up working various jobs like: delivering newspapers, mascotting for a sports drink company, and cleaning gyms. In his spare time, Allistair has competed in 29 marathons and in 5 duathlon world championships. Currently, Allistair travels the world sharing his knowledge on leadership, motivation, and team culture. 

In this interview, Allistair outlines the importance of preparation, how to seek out success, his experience working with top athletes and how they differ from everyone else, how to build lasting habits, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Intro

(01:45) What Allistair Does and Why?

(03:52) Working Various Odd Jobs

(07:07) The Impact of Our Circumstances

(09:19) Why Many Are Difficult to Coach

(13:20) No Money in Sports

(16:52) How to Become a Sports Performance & Mindset Coach

(20:15) Knowing When to Quit 

(22:34) Allistair's First Big Break

(24:61) Kevin Anderson

(27:03) Working w/Grand Slam Champions

(37:05) The Origins of Obsession

(43:30) Nick Bollettieri

(48:48) Marriage Advice 

(51:20) The Importance of Mindset

(54:52) "Luck Is What Happens When Preparation Meets Opportunity"

(59:41) Self-Talk

(01:06:31) Coach K

(01:10:23) Building Habits That Last

(01:16:57) Life Advice

Connect with Allistair: 

Twitter: https://x.com/AllistairMcCaw

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bechampionminded/

Mindset Is Your Superpower Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNM1VCV8?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_XEM43ZBS55BYBP1QHQVH&language=en-US

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Sun, 30 Jun 2024 23:06:14 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/world-renowned-sports-peformance-coach-allistair-mccaw-tells-all-working-with-grand-slam-champions-building-habits-that-last-learning-from-coach-k-and-why-mindset-is-your-superpower-zTxU8YmH Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Allistair McCaw. Allistair is a sports performance and mindset coach who has worked with extraordinary athletes and olympians like Kevin Anderson, Xavier Malisse, and many others. Allistair’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable as he grew up working various jobs like: delivering newspapers, mascotting for a sports drink company, and cleaning gyms. In his spare time, Allistair has competed in 29 marathons and in 5 duathlon world championships. Currently, Allistair travels the world sharing his knowledge on leadership, motivation, and team culture. 

In this interview, Allistair outlines the importance of preparation, how to seek out success, his experience working with top athletes and how they differ from everyone else, how to build lasting habits, and much more…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Intro

(01:45) What Allistair Does and Why?

(03:52) Working Various Odd Jobs

(07:07) The Impact of Our Circumstances

(09:19) Why Many Are Difficult to Coach

(13:20) No Money in Sports

(16:52) How to Become a Sports Performance & Mindset Coach

(20:15) Knowing When to Quit 

(22:34) Allistair's First Big Break

(24:61) Kevin Anderson

(27:03) Working w/Grand Slam Champions

(37:05) The Origins of Obsession

(43:30) Nick Bollettieri

(48:48) Marriage Advice 

(51:20) The Importance of Mindset

(54:52) "Luck Is What Happens When Preparation Meets Opportunity"

(59:41) Self-Talk

(01:06:31) Coach K

(01:10:23) Building Habits That Last

(01:16:57) Life Advice

Connect with Allistair: 

Twitter: https://x.com/AllistairMcCaw

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bechampionminded/

Mindset Is Your Superpower Book: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CNM1VCV8?ref_=cm_sw_r_apin_dp_XEM43ZBS55BYBP1QHQVH&language=en-US

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> World Renowned Sports Performance Coach Allistair McCaw Tells All: Working With Grand Slam Champions, Building Habits That Last, Learning From Coach K, And Why Mindset Is Your Superpower Nik Atanackovic 01:19:30 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Allistair McCaw. Allistair is a sports performance and mindset coach who has worked with extraordinary athletes and olympians like Kevin Anderson, Xavier Malisse, and many others. Allistair’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable as he grew up working various jobs like: delivering newspapers, mascotting for a sports drink company, and cleaning gyms. In his spare time, Allistair has competed in 29 marathons and in 5 duathlon world championships. Currently, Allistair travels the world sharing his knowledge on leadership, motivation, and team culture. In this interview, Allistair outlines the importance of preparation, how to seek out success, his experience working with top athletes and how they differ from everyone else, how to build lasting habits, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Allistair McCaw. Allistair is a sports performance and mindset coach who has worked with extraordinary athletes and olympians like Kevin Anderson, Xavier Malisse, and many others. Allistair’s journey has been nothing short of remarkable as he grew up working various jobs like: delivering newspapers, mascotting for a sports drink company, and cleaning gyms. In his spare time, Allistair has competed in 29 marathons and in 5 duathlon world championships. Currently, Allistair travels the world sharing his knowledge on leadership, motivation, and team culture. In this interview, Allistair outlines the importance of preparation, how to seek out success, his experience working with top athletes and how they differ from everyone else, how to build lasting habits, and much more… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… the victory degree, victory degree, allistair mccaw, nik atanackovic, coach k, nik false full 28 00c43ab5-0f2f-43ed-93b1-147e7e3cf253 LSU Associate Head Coach Bob Starkey ON: Coaching Shaq & Angel Reese, Growth of Women's Basketball, Learning From Bill Belichick & Nick Saban, Finding Your Passion & Embracing Failure Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Coach Bob Starkey. Coach Starkey has more than 30 years of SEC coaching experience including stints with both LSU Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams from 1989-2011. During this time, he coached LSU greats like Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf, Seimone Augustus, Sylvia Fowles, Temeka Jonson, and Shaq. All in all, Coach Starkey has had a decorated career, having been a part of 790 collegiate victories, 24 NCAA Tournaments, eight trips to the Elite Eight and five straight trips to the Women’s Final Four (2004-08). He is currently the associate head coach on the LSU Women’s Basketball team, under head coach Kim Mulkey and was largely responsible for implementing defensive principles that ultimately helped LSU win the national title in 2023. 

In this interview, Coach Starkey reveals his journey to coaching, how to push through adversity, what he’s learned from studying coaches like Bill Belichick and Nick Saban, the growth of women’s basketball, experience coaching Angel Reese and Shaq, how athletes should approach social media, and much more. 

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Intro

(02:19) Coach Starkey's Journey to Coaching

(05:54) Differences Between Men's and Women's Basketball

(09:12) How To Fight Through Adversity & Focus on the Process

(17:40) Staying in the Moment & Kobe

(21:31) What Makes for Good Team Culture?

(25:39) The Downstream Effects of Poor Leadership

(26:48) Learning From Bill Belichick & Nick Saban

(29:39) Failure

(32:53) Angel Reese

(37:38) Social Media

(40:46) Growth of Women's Basketball

(45:52) Shaq

(53:05) Coach Starkey: Hall of Fame Coach

(55:08) Work Ethic

(59:40) Finding Your Passion

(01:08:28) What Coach Starkey is Most Proud Of

(01:09:59) Online Blog

(01:21:50) How Basketball Has Changed?

(01:29:29) Phil Jackson

(01:35:36) Life Advice

Connect with Coach Starkey: 

Twitter: https://x.com/CoachBobStarkey

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hoopcoachbobstarkey/

Hoop Thoughts Blog: https://hoopthoughts.blogspot.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Sun, 23 Jun 2024 21:30:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/bob-starkey-cDxiL95Y Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Coach Bob Starkey. Coach Starkey has more than 30 years of SEC coaching experience including stints with both LSU Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams from 1989-2011. During this time, he coached LSU greats like Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf, Seimone Augustus, Sylvia Fowles, Temeka Jonson, and Shaq. All in all, Coach Starkey has had a decorated career, having been a part of 790 collegiate victories, 24 NCAA Tournaments, eight trips to the Elite Eight and five straight trips to the Women’s Final Four (2004-08). He is currently the associate head coach on the LSU Women’s Basketball team, under head coach Kim Mulkey and was largely responsible for implementing defensive principles that ultimately helped LSU win the national title in 2023. 

In this interview, Coach Starkey reveals his journey to coaching, how to push through adversity, what he’s learned from studying coaches like Bill Belichick and Nick Saban, the growth of women’s basketball, experience coaching Angel Reese and Shaq, how athletes should approach social media, and much more. 

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode…

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Intro

(02:19) Coach Starkey's Journey to Coaching

(05:54) Differences Between Men's and Women's Basketball

(09:12) How To Fight Through Adversity & Focus on the Process

(17:40) Staying in the Moment & Kobe

(21:31) What Makes for Good Team Culture?

(25:39) The Downstream Effects of Poor Leadership

(26:48) Learning From Bill Belichick & Nick Saban

(29:39) Failure

(32:53) Angel Reese

(37:38) Social Media

(40:46) Growth of Women's Basketball

(45:52) Shaq

(53:05) Coach Starkey: Hall of Fame Coach

(55:08) Work Ethic

(59:40) Finding Your Passion

(01:08:28) What Coach Starkey is Most Proud Of

(01:09:59) Online Blog

(01:21:50) How Basketball Has Changed?

(01:29:29) Phil Jackson

(01:35:36) Life Advice

Connect with Coach Starkey: 

Twitter: https://x.com/CoachBobStarkey

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/hoopcoachbobstarkey/

Hoop Thoughts Blog: https://hoopthoughts.blogspot.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> LSU Associate Head Coach Bob Starkey ON: Coaching Shaq & Angel Reese, Growth of Women's Basketball, Learning From Bill Belichick & Nick Saban, Finding Your Passion & Embracing Failure Nik Atanackovic 01:37:02 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Coach Bob Starkey. Coach Starkey has more than 30 years of SEC coaching experience including stints with both LSU Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams from 1989-2011. During this time, he coached LSU greats like Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf, Seimone Augustus, Sylvia Fowles, Temeka Jonson, and Shaq. All in all, Coach Starkey has had a decorated career, having been a part of 790 collegiate victories, 24 NCAA Tournaments, eight trips to the Elite Eight and five straight trips to the Women’s Final Four (2004-08). He is currently the associate head coach on the LSU Women’s Basketball team, under head coach Kim Mulkey and was largely responsible for implementing defensive principles that ultimately helped LSU win the national title in 2023. In this interview, Coach Starkey reveals his journey to coaching, how to push through adversity, what he’s learned from studying coaches like Bill Belichick and Nick Saban, the growth of women’s basketball, experience coaching Angel Reese and Shaq, how athletes should approach social media, and much more. As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Coach Bob Starkey. Coach Starkey has more than 30 years of SEC coaching experience including stints with both LSU Men’s and Women’s Basketball teams from 1989-2011. During this time, he coached LSU greats like Mahmoud Abdul-Rauf, Seimone Augustus, Sylvia Fowles, Temeka Jonson, and Shaq. All in all, Coach Starkey has had a decorated career, having been a part of 790 collegiate victories, 24 NCAA Tournaments, eight trips to the Elite Eight and five straight trips to the Women’s Final Four (2004-08). He is currently the associate head coach on the LSU Women’s Basketball team, under head coach Kim Mulkey and was largely responsible for implementing defensive principles that ultimately helped LSU win the national title in 2023. In this interview, Coach Starkey reveals his journey to coaching, how to push through adversity, what he’s learned from studying coaches like Bill Belichick and Nick Saban, the growth of women’s basketball, experience coaching Angel Reese and Shaq, how athletes should approach social media, and much more. As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. With that, let’s get to the episode… lsu, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, nik, bob starkey false full 27 704454fc-284a-47c9-bb6d-c76e1bd17c0b Olympic Champion Sylvia Hoffman Tells All: Olympic Training, Bobsledding & How to Adopt a Champion's Mindset Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Sylvia Hoffman aka SupaDupaChick. Sylvia is a 7 time World Cup Medalist and former Olympic Bronze medal winning bobsledder. In her own words, Sylvia is “a multi-sport athlete that has had three main sports throughout her athletic career. And she have gone Pro in two of them all while working full time in corporate. She is very passionate about reaching for goals that others deem impossible. She is an engineer, a national, international and Olympic record holder, an undefeated national champion, and an aspiring keynote speaker.” Not to mention, Sylvia is also a huge Eagles fan. 

In this interview, Sylvia reveals her extraordinary journey to bobsledding which involves an appearance on The Next Olympic Hopeful, the ins and outs of bobsledding, the difficult of juggling a full time job while training for the Olympics, how everyone can improve their self-confidence, and how to never give up…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. Alright, now on to the episode…

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Philadelphia Eagles

(02:06) How to Become a Bobsledder

(10:50) What is Bobsledding?

(13:12) The Military or The Olympics

(17:20) Astronauts & Space

(20:30) The Randomness of Life

(28:36) Working a 9-5

(33:50) How to Break Out of the Rat Race

(39:26) Making Team USA

(46:07) Olympic Training

(56:05) Financial Hardships

(01:05:32) Medaling in the Summer AND Winter Olympic Games

(01:13:59) Life Advice

Connect with Sylvia: 

Twitter: https://x.com/MsSylviaHoffman

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ms_sylviahoffman/?hl=en

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Sun, 16 Jun 2024 22:30:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/olympic-champion-sylvia-hoffman-tells-all-olympic-training-bobsledding-how-to-adopt-a-champions-mindset-jJRfoSoz Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Sylvia Hoffman aka SupaDupaChick. Sylvia is a 7 time World Cup Medalist and former Olympic Bronze medal winning bobsledder. In her own words, Sylvia is “a multi-sport athlete that has had three main sports throughout her athletic career. And she have gone Pro in two of them all while working full time in corporate. She is very passionate about reaching for goals that others deem impossible. She is an engineer, a national, international and Olympic record holder, an undefeated national champion, and an aspiring keynote speaker.” Not to mention, Sylvia is also a huge Eagles fan. 

In this interview, Sylvia reveals her extraordinary journey to bobsledding which involves an appearance on The Next Olympic Hopeful, the ins and outs of bobsledding, the difficult of juggling a full time job while training for the Olympics, how everyone can improve their self-confidence, and how to never give up…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. Alright, now on to the episode…

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Philadelphia Eagles

(02:06) How to Become a Bobsledder

(10:50) What is Bobsledding?

(13:12) The Military or The Olympics

(17:20) Astronauts & Space

(20:30) The Randomness of Life

(28:36) Working a 9-5

(33:50) How to Break Out of the Rat Race

(39:26) Making Team USA

(46:07) Olympic Training

(56:05) Financial Hardships

(01:05:32) Medaling in the Summer AND Winter Olympic Games

(01:13:59) Life Advice

Connect with Sylvia: 

Twitter: https://x.com/MsSylviaHoffman

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/ms_sylviahoffman/?hl=en

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Olympic Champion Sylvia Hoffman Tells All: Olympic Training, Bobsledding & How to Adopt a Champion's Mindset Nik Atanackovic 01:20:05 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Sylvia Hoffman aka SupaDupaChick. Sylvia is a 7 time World Cup Medalist and former Olympic Bronze medal winning bobsledder. In her own words, Sylvia is “a multi-sport athlete that has had three main sports throughout her athletic career. And she have gone Pro in two of them all while working full time in corporate. She is very passionate about reaching for goals that others deem impossible. She is an engineer, a national, international and Olympic record holder, an undefeated national champion, and an aspiring keynote speaker.” Not to mention, Sylvia is also a huge Eagles fan. In this interview, Sylvia reveals her extraordinary journey to bobsledding which involves an appearance on The Next Olympic Hopeful, the ins and outs of bobsledding, the difficult of juggling a full time job while training for the Olympics, how everyone can improve their self-confidence, and how to never give up… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. Alright, now on to the episode… Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Sylvia Hoffman aka SupaDupaChick. Sylvia is a 7 time World Cup Medalist and former Olympic Bronze medal winning bobsledder. In her own words, Sylvia is “a multi-sport athlete that has had three main sports throughout her athletic career. And she have gone Pro in two of them all while working full time in corporate. She is very passionate about reaching for goals that others deem impossible. She is an engineer, a national, international and Olympic record holder, an undefeated national champion, and an aspiring keynote speaker.” Not to mention, Sylvia is also a huge Eagles fan. In this interview, Sylvia reveals her extraordinary journey to bobsledding which involves an appearance on The Next Olympic Hopeful, the ins and outs of bobsledding, the difficult of juggling a full time job while training for the Olympics, how everyone can improve their self-confidence, and how to never give up… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. Alright, now on to the episode… sylvia hoffman, the victory degree, victory degree, olympics, usa false full 26 365eeac0-ffc4-488d-8619-7f9f11fd9923 George Mumford, Mindset Coach to Michael Jordan & Kobe, ON: Finding Greatness, The Power of Adversity, Kobe's Jump Shot & Working With Prison Inmates Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is George Mumford, a.k.a. The Performance Whisperer. George is a globally recognized speaker, teacher, and pioneer in sports psychology and performance. Since 1989, he’s been honing his groundbreaking performance and mindfulness techniques with people from locker rooms to board rooms, Yale to jail — as Phil Jackson’s ‘Secret Weapon’ to winning eight NBA Championships, helping Michael Jordan transform his leadership, and teaching Kobe Bryant to “just be.”

In this interview, George shares his experience working with the Chicago Bulls, Michael Jordan, and Kobe Bryant. He reveals why Kobe and MJ were some of his best meditation students and why MJ embraced the idea of “competing against one’s previous best self.” George also discusses the work he did with prison inmates and why they’re not so different from NBA players…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. And finally please remember: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take….

TIMESTAMPS

(01:41) 12 Siblings

(04:11) George's Childhood

(09:36) The Power of Adversity 

(17:11) Self-Realization 

(24:20) Kobe's Jump Shot and Freedom

(29:29) Working With Phil Jackson & The Bulls

(35:48) Meditation Experts: Kobe & Michael Jordan

(41:40) George's Improbable Journey 

(45:17) Working With Prison Inmates 

(49:03) How Social Media Has Impacted Athletes 

(55:42) Advice From Athletes 

(57:38) Life Advice 

Connect with George: 

Twitter: https://x.com/gtmumford

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/george.mumford/

Website: https://georgemumford.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Sun, 9 Jun 2024 21:30:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/george-mumford-mindset-coach-to-michael-jordan-kobe-on-finding-greatness-the-power-of-adversity-kobes-jump-shot-working-with-prison-inmates-wduj_0ja Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is George Mumford, a.k.a. The Performance Whisperer. George is a globally recognized speaker, teacher, and pioneer in sports psychology and performance. Since 1989, he’s been honing his groundbreaking performance and mindfulness techniques with people from locker rooms to board rooms, Yale to jail — as Phil Jackson’s ‘Secret Weapon’ to winning eight NBA Championships, helping Michael Jordan transform his leadership, and teaching Kobe Bryant to “just be.”

In this interview, George shares his experience working with the Chicago Bulls, Michael Jordan, and Kobe Bryant. He reveals why Kobe and MJ were some of his best meditation students and why MJ embraced the idea of “competing against one’s previous best self.” George also discusses the work he did with prison inmates and why they’re not so different from NBA players…

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. And finally please remember: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take….

TIMESTAMPS

(01:41) 12 Siblings

(04:11) George's Childhood

(09:36) The Power of Adversity 

(17:11) Self-Realization 

(24:20) Kobe's Jump Shot and Freedom

(29:29) Working With Phil Jackson & The Bulls

(35:48) Meditation Experts: Kobe & Michael Jordan

(41:40) George's Improbable Journey 

(45:17) Working With Prison Inmates 

(49:03) How Social Media Has Impacted Athletes 

(55:42) Advice From Athletes 

(57:38) Life Advice 

Connect with George: 

Twitter: https://x.com/gtmumford

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/george.mumford/

Website: https://georgemumford.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> George Mumford, Mindset Coach to Michael Jordan & Kobe, ON: Finding Greatness, The Power of Adversity, Kobe's Jump Shot & Working With Prison Inmates Nik Atanackovic 00:59:22 Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is George Mumford, a.k.a. The Performance Whisperer. George is a globally recognized speaker, teacher, and pioneer in sports psychology and performance. Since 1989, he’s been honing his groundbreaking performance and mindfulness techniques with people from locker rooms to board rooms, Yale to jail — as Phil Jackson’s ‘Secret Weapon’ to winning eight NBA Championships, helping Michael Jordan transform his leadership, and teaching Kobe Bryant to “just be.” In this interview, George shares his experience working with the Chicago Bulls, Michael Jordan, and Kobe Bryant. He reveals why Kobe and MJ were some of his best meditation students and why MJ embraced the idea of “competing against one’s previous best self.” George also discusses the work he did with prison inmates and why they’re not so different from NBA players… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. And finally please remember: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take…. Welcome back to The Victory Degree Podcast! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is George Mumford, a.k.a. The Performance Whisperer. George is a globally recognized speaker, teacher, and pioneer in sports psychology and performance. Since 1989, he’s been honing his groundbreaking performance and mindfulness techniques with people from locker rooms to board rooms, Yale to jail — as Phil Jackson’s ‘Secret Weapon’ to winning eight NBA Championships, helping Michael Jordan transform his leadership, and teaching Kobe Bryant to “just be.” In this interview, George shares his experience working with the Chicago Bulls, Michael Jordan, and Kobe Bryant. He reveals why Kobe and MJ were some of his best meditation students and why MJ embraced the idea of “competing against one’s previous best self.” George also discusses the work he did with prison inmates and why they’re not so different from NBA players… As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode. And if you do, please consider leaving a review on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or wherever you find this episode. It helps the show more than you know. And finally please remember: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take…. the victory degree, victory degree, george mumford, mumford, michael jordan, kobe bryant false full 25 e3b7ac94-effc-448a-b1ab-f9d5a0813f93 Josh Dobbs ON: Aerospace Engineering, Insane College Schedule, 2023 Season & Life As A Quarterback Hello party people, welcome back to the show! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Josh Dobbs - current NFL player and aspiring Aerospace Engineer. Josh’s NFL career started in 2017 when he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 4th round after playing 4 seasons for the Tennessee Volunteers. Since then, Josh has played for the Jaguars, Steelers, Browns, Lions, Titans, Cardinals, Vikings, and is currently with the 49ers. Besides football, Josh is passionate about the field of Aerospace Engineering - even interning at the Kennedy Space Center in both 2020 and 2021. 

In this interview, Josh reveals details about his childhood including his first passion - Aerospace Engineering, his hectic lifestyle in college, life as an NFL quarterback, why he’s excited to play for the 49ers, and much more. 

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode and please remember: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take….

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Joshs' Favorite Plane

(01:32) Childhood

(05:49) Kennedy Space Center

(08:33) Role Models

(12:04) Advanced Math

(14:15) Josh Dobbs the Superhuman

(16:53) Maturity

(20:54) Josh's Insane College Schedule

(30:12) Engineering: The Good Ol' Days

(39:08) Engineer or Football Player?

(41:49) Drafted by the Steelers

(46:27) What Separates the Best Quarterbacks

(49:22) 7 Different Teams by 28

(53:27) Relationship Between Starting QB and Backup

(57:05) QB Confidence

(01:00:09) Dealing With Failure

(01:02:20) Learning From the 2023 Season

(01:04:58) Team Culture

(01:07:19) Meeting the 49ers

(01:09:49) The Player-Agent Relationship

(01:15:39) Bay Area Housing Costs

(01:16:09) Inside the Helmet

(01:19:58) Crowd Noise

(01:22:38) Toughest NFL Stadium To Play In

(01:23:59) Life Advice

Connect with Josh: 

Twitter: https://x.com/josh_dobbs1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshdobbs/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Mon, 3 Jun 2024 02:25:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/josh-dobbs-on-aerospace-engineering-insane-college-schedule-2023-season-life-as-a-quarterback-bKpFcUF9 Hello party people, welcome back to the show! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Josh Dobbs - current NFL player and aspiring Aerospace Engineer. Josh’s NFL career started in 2017 when he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 4th round after playing 4 seasons for the Tennessee Volunteers. Since then, Josh has played for the Jaguars, Steelers, Browns, Lions, Titans, Cardinals, Vikings, and is currently with the 49ers. Besides football, Josh is passionate about the field of Aerospace Engineering - even interning at the Kennedy Space Center in both 2020 and 2021. 

In this interview, Josh reveals details about his childhood including his first passion - Aerospace Engineering, his hectic lifestyle in college, life as an NFL quarterback, why he’s excited to play for the 49ers, and much more. 

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode and please remember: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take….

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Joshs' Favorite Plane

(01:32) Childhood

(05:49) Kennedy Space Center

(08:33) Role Models

(12:04) Advanced Math

(14:15) Josh Dobbs the Superhuman

(16:53) Maturity

(20:54) Josh's Insane College Schedule

(30:12) Engineering: The Good Ol' Days

(39:08) Engineer or Football Player?

(41:49) Drafted by the Steelers

(46:27) What Separates the Best Quarterbacks

(49:22) 7 Different Teams by 28

(53:27) Relationship Between Starting QB and Backup

(57:05) QB Confidence

(01:00:09) Dealing With Failure

(01:02:20) Learning From the 2023 Season

(01:04:58) Team Culture

(01:07:19) Meeting the 49ers

(01:09:49) The Player-Agent Relationship

(01:15:39) Bay Area Housing Costs

(01:16:09) Inside the Helmet

(01:19:58) Crowd Noise

(01:22:38) Toughest NFL Stadium To Play In

(01:23:59) Life Advice

Connect with Josh: 

Twitter: https://x.com/josh_dobbs1

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/joshdobbs/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Josh Dobbs ON: Aerospace Engineering, Insane College Schedule, 2023 Season & Life As A Quarterback Nik Atanackovic 01:27:15 Hello party people, welcome back to the show! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Josh Dobbs - current NFL player and aspiring Aerospace Engineer. Josh’s NFL career started in 2017 when he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 4th round after playing 4 seasons for the Tennessee Volunteers. Since then, Josh has played for the Jaguars, Steelers, Browns, Lions, Titans, Cardinals, Vikings, and is currently with the 49ers. Besides football, Josh is passionate about the field of Aerospace Engineering - even interning at the Kennedy Space Center in both 2020 and 2021. In this interview, Josh reveals details about his childhood including his first passion - Aerospace Engineering, his hectic lifestyle in college, life as an NFL quarterback, why he’s excited to play for the 49ers, and much more. As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode and please remember: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take…. Hello party people, welcome back to the show! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Josh Dobbs - current NFL player and aspiring Aerospace Engineer. Josh’s NFL career started in 2017 when he was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the 4th round after playing 4 seasons for the Tennessee Volunteers. Since then, Josh has played for the Jaguars, Steelers, Browns, Lions, Titans, Cardinals, Vikings, and is currently with the 49ers. Besides football, Josh is passionate about the field of Aerospace Engineering - even interning at the Kennedy Space Center in both 2020 and 2021. In this interview, Josh reveals details about his childhood including his first passion - Aerospace Engineering, his hectic lifestyle in college, life as an NFL quarterback, why he’s excited to play for the 49ers, and much more. As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode and please remember: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take…. the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, josh dobbs false full 24 031aa042-443c-425c-8faa-49dc365cfbdd Daniel Carcillo UNFILTERED: Playing in the NHL, Dealing With CTE & Embracing Discipline Hello party people, welcome back to the show! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Daniel Carcillo - former NHL player and current concussion survivor and mental health advocate. Daniel spent 10 years in the NHL, winning 2 Stanley Cups with the Chicago Blackhawks and excelling in his role as an enforcer. Daniel was known for his aggressive play style on the ice and willingness to drop the gloves - so much so it earned him the nickname “car bomb.” After retiring from the NHL, Daniel experienced severe mental health conditions - the aftermath of countless concussions while playing. Daniel’s work and commitment to brain health initiatives have been featured in The Players’ Tribune, The New York Times, USA Today, The Athletic, and more. 

In this interview, Daniel opens up on his journey to hockey which started in King City, Ontario, his experience playing in the NHL, his work surrounding brain health, and the power of discipline, self-care, and a positive mindset.

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode and please remember: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take….

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Who Is Daniel Carcillo?

(02:17) King City, Ontario

(04:57) Pursuing Hockey

(07:22) Moving Away from Home at 16

(10:12) Managing Pressure

(13:43) Visualizing Success

(20:11) Day in the Life of a NHL Player

(26:23) How to Keep Going

(29:44) Daniel's Willingness to Drop the Gloves

(37:01) The Link Between Hockey and CTE

(41:34) The Power of Discipline, a Positive Mindset & Self-Care

(47:07) Life Advice

Connect with Daniel: 

Twitter: https://x.com/CarBombBoom13

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielcarcillo13/

Website: https://danielcarcillo.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Sun, 26 May 2024 23:10:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/daniel-carcillo-unfiltered-playing-in-the-nhl-dealing-with-cte-embracing-discipline-M3f48q5U Hello party people, welcome back to the show! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Daniel Carcillo - former NHL player and current concussion survivor and mental health advocate. Daniel spent 10 years in the NHL, winning 2 Stanley Cups with the Chicago Blackhawks and excelling in his role as an enforcer. Daniel was known for his aggressive play style on the ice and willingness to drop the gloves - so much so it earned him the nickname “car bomb.” After retiring from the NHL, Daniel experienced severe mental health conditions - the aftermath of countless concussions while playing. Daniel’s work and commitment to brain health initiatives have been featured in The Players’ Tribune, The New York Times, USA Today, The Athletic, and more. 

In this interview, Daniel opens up on his journey to hockey which started in King City, Ontario, his experience playing in the NHL, his work surrounding brain health, and the power of discipline, self-care, and a positive mindset.

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode and please remember: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take….

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Who Is Daniel Carcillo?

(02:17) King City, Ontario

(04:57) Pursuing Hockey

(07:22) Moving Away from Home at 16

(10:12) Managing Pressure

(13:43) Visualizing Success

(20:11) Day in the Life of a NHL Player

(26:23) How to Keep Going

(29:44) Daniel's Willingness to Drop the Gloves

(37:01) The Link Between Hockey and CTE

(41:34) The Power of Discipline, a Positive Mindset & Self-Care

(47:07) Life Advice

Connect with Daniel: 

Twitter: https://x.com/CarBombBoom13

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danielcarcillo13/

Website: https://danielcarcillo.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Daniel Carcillo UNFILTERED: Playing in the NHL, Dealing With CTE & Embracing Discipline Nik Atanackovic 00:51:34 Hello party people, welcome back to the show! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Daniel Carcillo - former NHL player and current concussion survivor and mental health advocate. Daniel spent 10 years in the NHL, winning 2 Stanley Cups with the Chicago Blackhawks and excelling in his role as an enforcer. Daniel was known for his aggressive play style on the ice and willingness to drop the gloves - so much so it earned him the nickname “car bomb.” After retiring from the NHL, Daniel experienced severe mental health conditions - the aftermath of countless concussions while playing. Daniel’s work and commitment to brain health initiatives have been featured in The Players’ Tribune, The New York Times, USA Today, The Athletic, and more. In this interview, Daniel opens up on his journey to hockey which started in King City, Ontario, his experience playing in the NHL, his work surrounding brain health, and the power of discipline, self-care, and a positive mindset. As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode and please remember: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take…. Hello party people, welcome back to the show! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Daniel Carcillo - former NHL player and current concussion survivor and mental health advocate. Daniel spent 10 years in the NHL, winning 2 Stanley Cups with the Chicago Blackhawks and excelling in his role as an enforcer. Daniel was known for his aggressive play style on the ice and willingness to drop the gloves - so much so it earned him the nickname “car bomb.” After retiring from the NHL, Daniel experienced severe mental health conditions - the aftermath of countless concussions while playing. Daniel’s work and commitment to brain health initiatives have been featured in The Players’ Tribune, The New York Times, USA Today, The Athletic, and more. In this interview, Daniel opens up on his journey to hockey which started in King City, Ontario, his experience playing in the NHL, his work surrounding brain health, and the power of discipline, self-care, and a positive mindset. As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode and please remember: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take…. the victory degree, victory degree, nhl, daniel carcillo false full 23 67cada88-942c-42eb-bba2-8b186ff19dc8 Andy Holloway ON: Building The Fantasy Footballers, Advice for Entrepreneurs & The Business of Podcasting Hello party people, welcome back to the show! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Andy Holloway- host of The Fantasy Footballers, a podcast which has been nominated for or won more than 40 industry and podcasting awards and is one of the largest sports podcasts in the world. Andy, alongside his co-hosts Jason Moore and Mike “The Fantasy Hitman” Wright break down the world of Fantasy Football with astute analysis, strong opinions, and matchup-winning advice you can’t find anywhere else. It is truly fantasy football at its finest. 

In this interview, Andy and I cover how The Fantasy Footballers started, the exact methods and tactics Andy and his co-hosts used to grow the podcast, Andy’s advice for all entrepreneurs including: the importance of focus, looking for signals, the role luck plays in success, and how to deal with your harshest critics. Andy also breaks down podcasting as a business and if you should start one today. 

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode and please remember: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take….

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Introduction

(03:53) Early Days of Fantasy Sports

(6:07) Leaving Tech for Podcasting

(09:51) Viewing the Podcast as a Business

(11:54) Monetization

(16:49) Starting Broad vs. Niche

(20:23) Future of Podcasting

(26:31) Looking for Early Signals

(31:55) Knowing When to Quit

(34:55) The Importance of Staying Focused

(41:03) Disagreements With Jason & Mike

(43:49) What is Andy's Why?

(46:00) Is a Podcast a Sellable Asset?

(48:17) Enjoying the Day-to-Day

(50:20) Andy's Daily Routine

(54:47) Downsides to Andy's Job

(57:43) Dealing with Criticism as a Public Figure

(01:05:21) What Fatherhood Has Taught Andy

(01:09:40) Learning From Athletes

(01:12:20) The Role of Luck and Timing in Success

(01:17:39) Life Advice & What's Next for The Fantasy Footballers

Connect with Andy: 

Twitter: https://x.com/andyholloway

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andyholloway/

The Fantasy Footballers: https://www.thefantasyfootballers.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Sun, 19 May 2024 19:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/andy-holloway-on-building-the-fantasy-footballers-advice-for-entrepreneurs-the-business-of-podcasting-2OtJo02M Hello party people, welcome back to the show! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. 

Today’s guest is Andy Holloway- host of The Fantasy Footballers, a podcast which has been nominated for or won more than 40 industry and podcasting awards and is one of the largest sports podcasts in the world. Andy, alongside his co-hosts Jason Moore and Mike “The Fantasy Hitman” Wright break down the world of Fantasy Football with astute analysis, strong opinions, and matchup-winning advice you can’t find anywhere else. It is truly fantasy football at its finest. 

In this interview, Andy and I cover how The Fantasy Footballers started, the exact methods and tactics Andy and his co-hosts used to grow the podcast, Andy’s advice for all entrepreneurs including: the importance of focus, looking for signals, the role luck plays in success, and how to deal with your harshest critics. Andy also breaks down podcasting as a business and if you should start one today. 

As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode and please remember: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take….

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Introduction

(03:53) Early Days of Fantasy Sports

(6:07) Leaving Tech for Podcasting

(09:51) Viewing the Podcast as a Business

(11:54) Monetization

(16:49) Starting Broad vs. Niche

(20:23) Future of Podcasting

(26:31) Looking for Early Signals

(31:55) Knowing When to Quit

(34:55) The Importance of Staying Focused

(41:03) Disagreements With Jason & Mike

(43:49) What is Andy's Why?

(46:00) Is a Podcast a Sellable Asset?

(48:17) Enjoying the Day-to-Day

(50:20) Andy's Daily Routine

(54:47) Downsides to Andy's Job

(57:43) Dealing with Criticism as a Public Figure

(01:05:21) What Fatherhood Has Taught Andy

(01:09:40) Learning From Athletes

(01:12:20) The Role of Luck and Timing in Success

(01:17:39) Life Advice & What's Next for The Fantasy Footballers

Connect with Andy: 

Twitter: https://x.com/andyholloway

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/andyholloway/

The Fantasy Footballers: https://www.thefantasyfootballers.com/

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Andy Holloway ON: Building The Fantasy Footballers, Advice for Entrepreneurs & The Business of Podcasting Nik Atanackovic 01:23:07 Hello party people, welcome back to the show! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Andy Holloway- host of The Fantasy Footballers, a podcast which has been nominated for or won more than 40 industry and podcasting awards and is one of the largest sports podcasts in the world. Andy, alongside his co-hosts Jason Moore and Mike “The Fantasy Hitman” Wright break down the world of Fantasy Football with astute analysis, strong opinions, and matchup-winning advice you can’t find anywhere else. It is truly fantasy football at its finest. In this interview, Andy and I cover how The Fantasy Footballers started, the exact methods and tactics Andy and his co-hosts used to grow the podcast, Andy’s advice for all entrepreneurs including: the importance of focus, looking for signals, the role luck plays in success, and how to deal with your harshest critics. Andy also breaks down podcasting as a business and if you should start one today. As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode and please remember: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take…. Hello party people, welcome back to the show! There are plenty of podcasts out there and so I thank you for choosing The Victory Degree today - the podcast where my mission is to interview the most influential people in sports both on and off the field. Today’s guest is Andy Holloway- host of The Fantasy Footballers, a podcast which has been nominated for or won more than 40 industry and podcasting awards and is one of the largest sports podcasts in the world. Andy, alongside his co-hosts Jason Moore and Mike “The Fantasy Hitman” Wright break down the world of Fantasy Football with astute analysis, strong opinions, and matchup-winning advice you can’t find anywhere else. It is truly fantasy football at its finest. In this interview, Andy and I cover how The Fantasy Footballers started, the exact methods and tactics Andy and his co-hosts used to grow the podcast, Andy’s advice for all entrepreneurs including: the importance of focus, looking for signals, the role luck plays in success, and how to deal with your harshest critics. Andy also breaks down podcasting as a business and if you should start one today. As always, I sincerely hope you enjoy this episode and please remember: you miss 100% of the shots you don’t take…. the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, andy holloway, fantasy football, the fantasy footballers false full 22 2e38c50f-decf-4327-bfa0-e6166128b058 This Is the Origin Story of Kobe Bryant: Never Before Seen Details From Kobe's Life | Mike Sielski In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Mike Sielski - the author of "The Rise, Kobe Bryant and the Pursuit of Immortality." Mike has been a sports columnist for The Philadelphia Inquirer since 2013 and was formerly a reporter at The Wall Street Journal. Mike was voted the top sports columnist in 2015 by the Associated Press Sports Editors. 

The book explores Kobe's origins, his upbringing in Italy, his time at Lower Merion High School, the influence of Kobe's parents, particularly his father Joe Bryant, and the impact of his experiences on his mindset and self-confidence. The conversation highlights Kobe's dedication to basketball and his relentless pursuit of greatness. Nik and Mike also explore Kobe Bryant's on-court and off-court persona, his search for identity, the impact of skipping steps in his development, his decision to bypass college, the importance of winning the state championship, his desire for a big market team, the draft fiasco and his journey to the Lakers, his dedication to improvement, and the lessons from his life and legacy.

 Please Enjoy! 

TIMESTAMPS 

(00:00) Mike's Relationship With Jake Voracek 

(01:20) Inspiration to Write the Book 

(03:28) Research For the Book 

(05:49) Where is Kobe From?

(08:07) How Kobe Got His Name

(08:41) Joe Bryant: Kobe's Father 

(15:03) Kobe's Maturity and Mindset 

(17:24) Kobe's Time in Italy 

(19:00) Kobe & American Culture 

(20:19) Kobe's Love for Storytelling 

(21:57) Kobe's Lower Merion High School Career 

(28:05) Kobe's Self-Confidence 

(30:33) Kobe's On-Court and Off-Court Persona 

(33:00) Kobe The Intimidator 

(35:13) The Importance of Winning the State Championship

(38:12) Bypassing College 

(40:44) The Draft Fiasco and Kobe's Journey to the Lakers 

(44:25) Do Big Market NBA Teams Have an Advantage? 

(45:21) After the Loss to Utah 

(46:51) Lessons from Kobe's Life and Legacy 

(47:55) Kobe's Regrets 

(49:49) Life Advice 

(53:09) Mike's Favorite Lesson from Kobe 

Connect with Mike: 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MikeSielski 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mike.sielski/ 

Buy "The Rise": https://shorturl.at/adkry 

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Mon, 13 May 2024 01:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/this-is-the-origin-story-of-kobe-bryant-never-before-seen-details-from-kobes-life-mike-sielski-iY1ir5WG In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Mike Sielski - the author of "The Rise, Kobe Bryant and the Pursuit of Immortality." Mike has been a sports columnist for The Philadelphia Inquirer since 2013 and was formerly a reporter at The Wall Street Journal. Mike was voted the top sports columnist in 2015 by the Associated Press Sports Editors. 

The book explores Kobe's origins, his upbringing in Italy, his time at Lower Merion High School, the influence of Kobe's parents, particularly his father Joe Bryant, and the impact of his experiences on his mindset and self-confidence. The conversation highlights Kobe's dedication to basketball and his relentless pursuit of greatness. Nik and Mike also explore Kobe Bryant's on-court and off-court persona, his search for identity, the impact of skipping steps in his development, his decision to bypass college, the importance of winning the state championship, his desire for a big market team, the draft fiasco and his journey to the Lakers, his dedication to improvement, and the lessons from his life and legacy.

 Please Enjoy! 

TIMESTAMPS 

(00:00) Mike's Relationship With Jake Voracek 

(01:20) Inspiration to Write the Book 

(03:28) Research For the Book 

(05:49) Where is Kobe From?

(08:07) How Kobe Got His Name

(08:41) Joe Bryant: Kobe's Father 

(15:03) Kobe's Maturity and Mindset 

(17:24) Kobe's Time in Italy 

(19:00) Kobe & American Culture 

(20:19) Kobe's Love for Storytelling 

(21:57) Kobe's Lower Merion High School Career 

(28:05) Kobe's Self-Confidence 

(30:33) Kobe's On-Court and Off-Court Persona 

(33:00) Kobe The Intimidator 

(35:13) The Importance of Winning the State Championship

(38:12) Bypassing College 

(40:44) The Draft Fiasco and Kobe's Journey to the Lakers 

(44:25) Do Big Market NBA Teams Have an Advantage? 

(45:21) After the Loss to Utah 

(46:51) Lessons from Kobe's Life and Legacy 

(47:55) Kobe's Regrets 

(49:49) Life Advice 

(53:09) Mike's Favorite Lesson from Kobe 

Connect with Mike: 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MikeSielski 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/mike.sielski/ 

Buy "The Rise": https://shorturl.at/adkry 

Connect with Nik: 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> This Is the Origin Story of Kobe Bryant: Never Before Seen Details From Kobe's Life | Mike Sielski Nik Atanackovic 00:54:53 In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Mike Sielski - the author of "The Rise, Kobe Bryant and the Pursuit of Immortality." Mike has been a sports columnist for The Philadelphia Inquirer since 2013 and was formerly a reporter at The Wall Street Journal. Mike was voted the top sports columnist in 2015 by the Associated Press Sports Editors. The book explores Kobe's origins, his upbringing in Italy, his time at Lower Merion High School, the influence of Kobe's parents, particularly his father Joe Bryant, and the impact of his experiences on his mindset and self-confidence. The conversation highlights Kobe's dedication to basketball and his relentless pursuit of greatness. Nik and Mike also explore Kobe Bryant's on-court and off-court persona, his search for identity, the impact of skipping steps in his development, his decision to bypass college, the importance of winning the state championship, his desire for a big market team, the draft fiasco and his journey to the Lakers, his dedication to improvement, and the lessons from his life and legacy. In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Mike Sielski - the author of "The Rise, Kobe Bryant and the Pursuit of Immortality." Mike has been a sports columnist for The Philadelphia Inquirer since 2013 and was formerly a reporter at The Wall Street Journal. Mike was voted the top sports columnist in 2015 by the Associated Press Sports Editors. The book explores Kobe's origins, his upbringing in Italy, his time at Lower Merion High School, the influence of Kobe's parents, particularly his father Joe Bryant, and the impact of his experiences on his mindset and self-confidence. The conversation highlights Kobe's dedication to basketball and his relentless pursuit of greatness. Nik and Mike also explore Kobe Bryant's on-court and off-court persona, his search for identity, the impact of skipping steps in his development, his decision to bypass college, the importance of winning the state championship, his desire for a big market team, the draft fiasco and his journey to the Lakers, his dedication to improvement, and the lessons from his life and legacy. mike sielski, the victory degree, victory degree, kobe, kobe bryant false full 21 2667eb62-a5f1-4c5d-aef6-86cc9dd9a3d5 Former Chicago Bears RB ON: Beating the Odds, Ohio State vs. Michigan Rivalry & Entrepreneurship | Raymont Harris In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Raymont Harris - a former NFL running back for the Chicago Bears. Raymont shares the challenges he faced growing up in the small town of Lorain, Ohio without a mother and the pivotal role football played in keeping him on the right path. Raymont shares his journey from starting only 7 games his entire high school career, to having an outstanding run at Ohio State, and eventually landing in the NFL with the Chicago Bears. Life after the NFL saw Raymont start a career in the mortgage business but quickly realized it wasn't for him. This lead him to starting Elite Mindset and Performance (EMP), a program designed to help you level up in life and achieve your dreams. Raymont's passion for helping others is evident and his journey is nothing short of spectacular.

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Introduction

(02:41) How Raymont Deals With a Birthday Close to Christmas

(03:54) Growing Up Without A Mother

(05:48) Football as an Escape

(08:23) Dreams of Going into the NFL

(10:54) Importance of Support

(13:05) Early Injuries & Motivation 

(17:22) Ohio State vs. Michigan 

(19:05) Getting Drafted Into the NFL

(20:49) Slim Odds

(25:26) Balancing Confidence and Cockiness

(28:37) Healing From Past Traumas

(31:59) Regrets From the NFL

(34:29) Comparison to Current NFL Running Backs

(36:41) Post NFL Career

(39:43) Starting Elite Mindset and Performance (EMP)

(42:41) Control the Controllables

(48:09) Self-Belief

(51:23) Visualizing Success

(54:39) Favorite Part of Running EMP

(55:54) Future Goals for EMP

(59:01) Comparison of NFL and Entrepreneurship

(01:01:10) Life Advice

(01:03:57) Advice To Younger Self

Connect with Raymont:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/raymontharris

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raymont_harris/?hl=en

Elite Mindset & Performance: https://raymontharris.com/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Mon, 6 May 2024 00:45:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/former-chicago-bears-rb-on-beating-the-odds-ohio-state-vs-michigan-rivalry-entrepreneurship-raymont-harris-bn9U0fDD In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Raymont Harris - a former NFL running back for the Chicago Bears. Raymont shares the challenges he faced growing up in the small town of Lorain, Ohio without a mother and the pivotal role football played in keeping him on the right path. Raymont shares his journey from starting only 7 games his entire high school career, to having an outstanding run at Ohio State, and eventually landing in the NFL with the Chicago Bears. Life after the NFL saw Raymont start a career in the mortgage business but quickly realized it wasn't for him. This lead him to starting Elite Mindset and Performance (EMP), a program designed to help you level up in life and achieve your dreams. Raymont's passion for helping others is evident and his journey is nothing short of spectacular.

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Introduction

(02:41) How Raymont Deals With a Birthday Close to Christmas

(03:54) Growing Up Without A Mother

(05:48) Football as an Escape

(08:23) Dreams of Going into the NFL

(10:54) Importance of Support

(13:05) Early Injuries & Motivation 

(17:22) Ohio State vs. Michigan 

(19:05) Getting Drafted Into the NFL

(20:49) Slim Odds

(25:26) Balancing Confidence and Cockiness

(28:37) Healing From Past Traumas

(31:59) Regrets From the NFL

(34:29) Comparison to Current NFL Running Backs

(36:41) Post NFL Career

(39:43) Starting Elite Mindset and Performance (EMP)

(42:41) Control the Controllables

(48:09) Self-Belief

(51:23) Visualizing Success

(54:39) Favorite Part of Running EMP

(55:54) Future Goals for EMP

(59:01) Comparison of NFL and Entrepreneurship

(01:01:10) Life Advice

(01:03:57) Advice To Younger Self

Connect with Raymont:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/raymontharris

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/raymont_harris/?hl=en

Elite Mindset & Performance: https://raymontharris.com/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Former Chicago Bears RB ON: Beating the Odds, Ohio State vs. Michigan Rivalry & Entrepreneurship | Raymont Harris Nik Atanackovic 01:05:01 In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Raymont Harris - a former NFL running back for the Chicago Bears. Raymont shares the challenges he faced growing up in the small town of Lorain, Ohio without a mother and the pivotal role football played in keeping him on the right path. Raymont shares his journey from starting only 7 games his entire high school career, to having an outstanding run at Ohio State, and eventually landing in the NFL with the Chicago Bears. Life after the NFL saw Raymont start a career in the mortgage business but quickly realized it wasn't for him. This lead him to starting Elite Mindset and Performance (EMP), a program designed to help you level up in life and achieve your dreams. Raymont's passion for helping others is evident and his journey is nothing short of spectacular. In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Raymont Harris - a former NFL running back for the Chicago Bears. Raymont shares the challenges he faced growing up in the small town of Lorain, Ohio without a mother and the pivotal role football played in keeping him on the right path. Raymont shares his journey from starting only 7 games his entire high school career, to having an outstanding run at Ohio State, and eventually landing in the NFL with the Chicago Bears. Life after the NFL saw Raymont start a career in the mortgage business but quickly realized it wasn't for him. This lead him to starting Elite Mindset and Performance (EMP), a program designed to help you level up in life and achieve your dreams. Raymont's passion for helping others is evident and his journey is nothing short of spectacular. the victory degree, nik atanackovic, victory degree podcast, raymont harris false full 20 696a0735-b84a-456e-a0fa-628e0e28a908 Kirk Cousins' Agent ON: Negotiating Kirk's Falcons Contract, Navigating Free Agency & How To Become a NFL Agent | Mike McCartney In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with NFL agent Mike McCartney. Mike  has been involved in college football and the NFL as a coach, scout, and personnel executive for more than 25 years. This includes stints with the Chicago Bears as a Pro Scout and the Philadelphia Eagles as the Director of Pro Personnel. Currently, Mike works for VaynerSports and represents NFL talent like Kirk Cousins, Josh Dobbs, and Aidan Hutchinson. Nik and Mike discuss McCartney's background in football, his transition to becoming an agent, the challenges of drafting quarterbacks in the NFL, McCartney's experience negotiating contracts for Kirk Cousins, the process of navigating free agency, and more! 

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Bad Joke About Cowboys HC Mike McCarthy 

(02:19) "Football is Here, Goodbye Dear"

(08:56) Differences Between College Football & The NFL

(13:21) Why Drafting a Franchise QB Is Tough

(19:23) Becoming a NFL Agent 

(25:13) Importance of Integrity

(27:54) Recruiting New Clients

(30:35) Responsibilities as an NFL Agent

(33:12) Negotiating Kirk Cousins' Falcons Contract

(34:49) Navigating Free Agency

(43:27) Do Players Care About the City They Play In?

(47:22) Understanding NFL Contracts

(55:08) Predicting The Future QB Market

(58:39) Insights into Kirk Cousins, Josh Dobbs, and Aiden Hutchinson

(01:02:03) Life Advice

Connect with Mike:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MikeMcCartney7

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/i_am_mikemac/

Spotrac: https://www.spotrac.com/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Sun, 28 Apr 2024 17:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/kirk-cousins-agent-on-negotiating-kirks-falcons-contract-navigating-free-agency-the-importance-of-integrity-qjZH0ycJ In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with NFL agent Mike McCartney. Mike  has been involved in college football and the NFL as a coach, scout, and personnel executive for more than 25 years. This includes stints with the Chicago Bears as a Pro Scout and the Philadelphia Eagles as the Director of Pro Personnel. Currently, Mike works for VaynerSports and represents NFL talent like Kirk Cousins, Josh Dobbs, and Aidan Hutchinson. Nik and Mike discuss McCartney's background in football, his transition to becoming an agent, the challenges of drafting quarterbacks in the NFL, McCartney's experience negotiating contracts for Kirk Cousins, the process of navigating free agency, and more! 

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Bad Joke About Cowboys HC Mike McCarthy 

(02:19) "Football is Here, Goodbye Dear"

(08:56) Differences Between College Football & The NFL

(13:21) Why Drafting a Franchise QB Is Tough

(19:23) Becoming a NFL Agent 

(25:13) Importance of Integrity

(27:54) Recruiting New Clients

(30:35) Responsibilities as an NFL Agent

(33:12) Negotiating Kirk Cousins' Falcons Contract

(34:49) Navigating Free Agency

(43:27) Do Players Care About the City They Play In?

(47:22) Understanding NFL Contracts

(55:08) Predicting The Future QB Market

(58:39) Insights into Kirk Cousins, Josh Dobbs, and Aiden Hutchinson

(01:02:03) Life Advice

Connect with Mike:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MikeMcCartney7

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/i_am_mikemac/

Spotrac: https://www.spotrac.com/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Kirk Cousins' Agent ON: Negotiating Kirk's Falcons Contract, Navigating Free Agency & How To Become a NFL Agent | Mike McCartney Nik Atanackovic 01:06:32 In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with NFL agent Mike McCartney. Mike has been involved in college football and the NFL as a coach, scout, and personnel executive for more than 25 years. This includes stints with the Chicago Bears as a Pro Scout and the Philadelphia Eagles as the Director of Pro Personnel. Currently, Mike works for VaynerSports and represents NFL talent like Kirk Cousins, Josh Dobbs, and Aidan Hutchinson. Nik and Mike discuss McCartney's background in football, his transition to becoming an agent, the challenges of drafting quarterbacks in the NFL, McCartney's experience negotiating contracts for Kirk Cousins, the process of navigating free agency, and more! In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with NFL agent Mike McCartney. Mike has been involved in college football and the NFL as a coach, scout, and personnel executive for more than 25 years. This includes stints with the Chicago Bears as a Pro Scout and the Philadelphia Eagles as the Director of Pro Personnel. Currently, Mike works for VaynerSports and represents NFL talent like Kirk Cousins, Josh Dobbs, and Aidan Hutchinson. Nik and Mike discuss McCartney's background in football, his transition to becoming an agent, the challenges of drafting quarterbacks in the NFL, McCartney's experience negotiating contracts for Kirk Cousins, the process of navigating free agency, and more! kirk cousins, the victory degree, aidan hutchinson, victory degree, nik atanackovic, josh dobbs, atlanta falcons, nik, mike mccartney false full 19 58532a41-5b48-4b83-ba88-0e786de11a83 How A Former Professional Basketball Player is Building a Massive Sports Media Company | Malcolm Lemmons In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Malcolm Lemmons, a former professional basketball player turned entrepreneur, shares his journey from a life-changing car accident to playing basketball overseas and building his personal brand. He emphasizes the importance of embracing discomfort, taking risks, and understanding that greatness takes time. Malcolm also highlights the significance of building a brand for athletes, as it can provide opportunities and leverage during and after their sports careers. Malcolm's journey is one worth paying attention to and his insights into brand building are exceptional. 

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Introduction

(01:02) The Car Accident

(07:01) Choosing Basketball

(18:03) Playing in Japan

(24:35) Lessons from Basketball

(36:11) Why Should Athletes Build a Brand?

(38:00) Working At Apple

(40:35) Brand Perception

(41:56) Balancing Viral Content and Value

(44:12) Athletes as Role Models

(47:31) Athlete-Led Podcasts

(49:54) Examples of Good Brands

(52:40) Starting Vetted Sports & Newsletters

(56:38) Timing of Entrepreneurship for Athletes

(59:31) Business Mentors

(01:01:13) Challenges Growing a Newsletter

(01:03:36) Life Advice

(01:07:16) Finding Your Passion

Connect with Malcolm:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MalcolmLemmons

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malcolmlemmons/

Vetted Sports: https://newsletter.vettedsports.com/

Twitter Thread: https://x.com/MalcolmLemmons/status/1635263423297773569

Buy "Impact Beyond the Game": https://shorturl.at/goxEN

Buy "Lessons From the Game": https://shorturl.at/wEOW1

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Sun, 21 Apr 2024 19:30:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/former-professional-basketball-player-on-how-to-build-a-profitable-newsletter-business-GFCLbXZ4 In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Malcolm Lemmons, a former professional basketball player turned entrepreneur, shares his journey from a life-changing car accident to playing basketball overseas and building his personal brand. He emphasizes the importance of embracing discomfort, taking risks, and understanding that greatness takes time. Malcolm also highlights the significance of building a brand for athletes, as it can provide opportunities and leverage during and after their sports careers. Malcolm's journey is one worth paying attention to and his insights into brand building are exceptional. 

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Introduction

(01:02) The Car Accident

(07:01) Choosing Basketball

(18:03) Playing in Japan

(24:35) Lessons from Basketball

(36:11) Why Should Athletes Build a Brand?

(38:00) Working At Apple

(40:35) Brand Perception

(41:56) Balancing Viral Content and Value

(44:12) Athletes as Role Models

(47:31) Athlete-Led Podcasts

(49:54) Examples of Good Brands

(52:40) Starting Vetted Sports & Newsletters

(56:38) Timing of Entrepreneurship for Athletes

(59:31) Business Mentors

(01:01:13) Challenges Growing a Newsletter

(01:03:36) Life Advice

(01:07:16) Finding Your Passion

Connect with Malcolm:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/MalcolmLemmons

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/malcolmlemmons/

Vetted Sports: https://newsletter.vettedsports.com/

Twitter Thread: https://x.com/MalcolmLemmons/status/1635263423297773569

Buy "Impact Beyond the Game": https://shorturl.at/goxEN

Buy "Lessons From the Game": https://shorturl.at/wEOW1

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> How A Former Professional Basketball Player is Building a Massive Sports Media Company | Malcolm Lemmons Nik Atanackovic 01:12:45 In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Malcolm Lemmons, a former professional basketball player turned entrepreneur, shares his journey from a life-changing car accident to playing basketball overseas and building his personal brand. He emphasizes the importance of embracing discomfort, taking risks, and understanding that greatness takes time. Malcolm also highlights the significance of building a brand for athletes, as it can provide opportunities and leverage during and after their sports careers. Malcolm's journey is one worth paying attention to and his insights into brand building are exceptional. In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Malcolm Lemmons, a former professional basketball player turned entrepreneur, shares his journey from a life-changing car accident to playing basketball overseas and building his personal brand. He emphasizes the importance of embracing discomfort, taking risks, and understanding that greatness takes time. Malcolm also highlights the significance of building a brand for athletes, as it can provide opportunities and leverage during and after their sports careers. Malcolm's journey is one worth paying attention to and his insights into brand building are exceptional. newsletter, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, entrepreneurship, malcolm lemmons, nik false full 18 20b04863-1fd8-44a4-9c9c-30c2d99fe21a Jason McIntyre ON: Colin Cowherd, Future of Sports Media, Cam Newton & The Importance of Timing In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Jason McIntyre: the cohost of The Herd With Colin Cowherd, sports analyst at Fox Sports, founder of The Big Lead, and host of The Straight Fire Podcast. Jason shares his experience building and selling a sports media company, his take on the future of sports media, and key frameworks and advice you can implement to find success in whatever you do. Jason also gives us a behind the scenes look at The Herd and his relationship with Colin Cowherd.

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Jason's Early Love for Sports

(05:35) The Big Lead

(09:10) Importance of Timing

(13:00) Adversity

(18:05) Conquering Fear

(20:56) Discovering Your Own Potential

(23:50) Advice From Athletes

(27:22) The Herd With Colin Cowherd

(31:30) Future of Sports Media

(34:30) Jason's Life Advice

Connect with Jason:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jasonrmcintyre

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonrmcintyre/

Straight Fire Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-fire-with-jason-mcintyre/id1523353907

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Mon, 15 Apr 2024 00:20:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/jason-mcintyre-on-colin-cowherd-future-of-sports-media-cam-newton-the-importance-of-timing-T4DoeCUl In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Jason McIntyre: the cohost of The Herd With Colin Cowherd, sports analyst at Fox Sports, founder of The Big Lead, and host of The Straight Fire Podcast. Jason shares his experience building and selling a sports media company, his take on the future of sports media, and key frameworks and advice you can implement to find success in whatever you do. Jason also gives us a behind the scenes look at The Herd and his relationship with Colin Cowherd.

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Jason's Early Love for Sports

(05:35) The Big Lead

(09:10) Importance of Timing

(13:00) Adversity

(18:05) Conquering Fear

(20:56) Discovering Your Own Potential

(23:50) Advice From Athletes

(27:22) The Herd With Colin Cowherd

(31:30) Future of Sports Media

(34:30) Jason's Life Advice

Connect with Jason:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jasonrmcintyre

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jasonrmcintyre/

Straight Fire Podcast: podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/straight-fire-with-jason-mcintyre/id1523353907

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Jason McIntyre ON: Colin Cowherd, Future of Sports Media, Cam Newton & The Importance of Timing Nik Atanackovic 00:36:58 In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Jason McIntyre: the cohost of The Herd With Colin Cowherd, sports analyst at Fox Sports, founder of The Big Lead, and host of The Straight Fire Podcast. Jason shares his experience building and selling a sports media company, his take on the future of sports media, and key frameworks and advice you can implement to find success in whatever you do. Jason also gives us a behind the scenes look at The Herd and his relationship with Colin Cowherd. In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Jason McIntyre: the cohost of The Herd With Colin Cowherd, sports analyst at Fox Sports, founder of The Big Lead, and host of The Straight Fire Podcast. Jason shares his experience building and selling a sports media company, his take on the future of sports media, and key frameworks and advice you can implement to find success in whatever you do. Jason also gives us a behind the scenes look at The Herd and his relationship with Colin Cowherd. colin cowherd, the victory degree, victory degree, jason mcintyre false full 17 936818b0-04ca-41dd-9f6b-e79e76aaaccf Sean Clifford ON: Packers Culture, Death Threats, Jordan Love, NIL Company & NFL Beauty Pagent In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Sean Clifford, the backup quarterback for the Green Bay Packers and founder of Limitless NIL. In this conversation, Sean Clifford discusses his journey to the NFL, the culture of the Green Bay Packers, the impact of role models, the growth of Jordan Love, his entrepreneurship ventures, and the lessons he learned from football that he applies to business. 

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) High School Sean

(02:59) From Long Snapper to Quarterback

(08:38) Preparation & Luck

(11:26) Penn State

(13:50) Death Threats

(18:49) Criticism 

(23:18) NFL Draft 

(31:35) Family 

(35:12) Green Bay Packers' Culture

(38:33) Aaron Rodgers

(40:46) Role Models

(44:04) Jordan Love 

(47:08) 49ers Own the Packers

(48:07) Entrepreneurship & Starting Limitless NIL

(53:51) Lessons Learned from Football

(57:06) Ji'Ayir Brown

(01:01:06) Life Advice

]]> Mon, 8 Apr 2024 15:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/sean-clifford-on-packers-culture-death-threats-jordan-love-nil-company-nfl-beauty-pagent-x4tXnRVw In this episode of the Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Sean Clifford, the backup quarterback for the Green Bay Packers and founder of Limitless NIL. In this conversation, Sean Clifford discusses his journey to the NFL, the culture of the Green Bay Packers, the impact of role models, the growth of Jordan Love, his entrepreneurship ventures, and the lessons he learned from football that he applies to business. 

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) High School Sean

(02:59) From Long Snapper to Quarterback

(08:38) Preparation & Luck

(11:26) Penn State

(13:50) Death Threats

(18:49) Criticism 

(23:18) NFL Draft 

(31:35) Family 

(35:12) Green Bay Packers' Culture

(38:33) Aaron Rodgers

(40:46) Role Models

(44:04) Jordan Love 

(47:08) 49ers Own the Packers

(48:07) Entrepreneurship & Starting Limitless NIL

(53:51) Lessons Learned from Football

(57:06) Ji'Ayir Brown

(01:01:06) Life Advice

]]> Sean Clifford ON: Packers Culture, Death Threats, Jordan Love, NIL Company & NFL Beauty Pagent Nik Atanackovic 01:03:36 In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Sean Clifford, the backup quarterback for the Green Bay Packers and founder of Limitless NIL. In this conversation, Sean Clifford discusses his journey to the NFL, the culture of the Green Bay Packers, the impact of role models, the growth of Jordan Love, his entrepreneurship ventures, and the lessons he learned from football that he applies to business. In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Sean Clifford, the backup quarterback for the Green Bay Packers and founder of Limitless NIL. In this conversation, Sean Clifford discusses his journey to the NFL, the culture of the Green Bay Packers, the impact of role models, the growth of Jordan Love, his entrepreneurship ventures, and the lessons he learned from football that he applies to business. nfl, the victory degree, green bay packers, victory degree, packers, sean clifford false full 16 b813b258-9c59-4db7-bff3-a77a0f069732 How a Former MiLB Player Built a Multi-Million Dollar Company | Ben Brewster In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Ben Brewster - a former draft pick of the Chicago White Sox and current founder & CEO of Tread Athletics. Ben shares his underdog journey from fighting for a roster spot on the White Sox to starting one of the largest baseball coaching & performance companies in the world. Learn the secret strategies & tactics Ben used to grow Tread Athletics, why so many baseball prospects don't fulfill their potential, and a breakdown of the top pitchers in the MLB.

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Introduction

(01:41) Who Is Ben Brewster?

(10:30) Ben Gives a Masterclass in Pitching

(13:30) How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

(20:29) Everyone Starts As a Beginner

(23:50) Getting Drafted into the MLB & Starting a Company 

(29:29) MLB Draft Process Explained

(32:45) What It's Like Playing in the MLB & Why Most MLB Players Don't Make It

(44:13) Why Ben Decided to Start Tread Athletics 

(56:56) The Impact of COVID on Tread Athletics

(59:36) Was Ben Surprised by His Success?

(01:02:39) Ben's Social Media Strategy 

(01:11:52) Mechanical Breakdown of the Best Pitchers in the MLB

(01:19:38) Mental Preparation for Pitchers

(01:29:07) Is Baseball a Dying Sport?

(01:31:29) Ben's Life Advice

Connect with Ben Brewster:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TreadAthletics

Tread Athletics on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TreadHQ

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tread_athletics/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@treadathletics

Tread Athletics: https://treadathletics.com/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Sun, 31 Mar 2024 23:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/how-a-former-mlb-player-built-a-multi-million-dollar-company-kxnfljQS In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Ben Brewster - a former draft pick of the Chicago White Sox and current founder & CEO of Tread Athletics. Ben shares his underdog journey from fighting for a roster spot on the White Sox to starting one of the largest baseball coaching & performance companies in the world. Learn the secret strategies & tactics Ben used to grow Tread Athletics, why so many baseball prospects don't fulfill their potential, and a breakdown of the top pitchers in the MLB.

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Introduction

(01:41) Who Is Ben Brewster?

(10:30) Ben Gives a Masterclass in Pitching

(13:30) How to Stop Comparing Yourself to Others

(20:29) Everyone Starts As a Beginner

(23:50) Getting Drafted into the MLB & Starting a Company 

(29:29) MLB Draft Process Explained

(32:45) What It's Like Playing in the MLB & Why Most MLB Players Don't Make It

(44:13) Why Ben Decided to Start Tread Athletics 

(56:56) The Impact of COVID on Tread Athletics

(59:36) Was Ben Surprised by His Success?

(01:02:39) Ben's Social Media Strategy 

(01:11:52) Mechanical Breakdown of the Best Pitchers in the MLB

(01:19:38) Mental Preparation for Pitchers

(01:29:07) Is Baseball a Dying Sport?

(01:31:29) Ben's Life Advice

Connect with Ben Brewster:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TreadAthletics

Tread Athletics on Twitter: https://twitter.com/TreadHQ

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/tread_athletics/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@treadathletics

Tread Athletics: https://treadathletics.com/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> How a Former MiLB Player Built a Multi-Million Dollar Company | Ben Brewster Nik Atanackovic 01:35:30 In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Ben Brewster - a former draft pick of the Chicago White Sox and current founder & CEO of Tread Athletics. Ben shares his underdog journey from fighting for a roster spot on the White Sox to starting one of the largest baseball coaching & performance companies in the world. Learn the secret strategies & tactics Ben used to grow Tread Athletics, why so many baseball prospects don't fulfill their potential, and a breakdown of the top pitchers in the MLB. In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Ben Brewster - a former draft pick of the Chicago White Sox and current founder & CEO of Tread Athletics. Ben shares his underdog journey from fighting for a roster spot on the White Sox to starting one of the largest baseball coaching & performance companies in the world. Learn the secret strategies & tactics Ben used to grow Tread Athletics, why so many baseball prospects don't fulfill their potential, and a breakdown of the top pitchers in the MLB. mlb, pitchers, ben brewster, pitcher, tread athletics false full 15 ffa33920-d51d-4747-9b12-29e6b9abc7bd Marcellus Wiley Unfiltered: Growing Up in Compton, Making Millions in the NFL & A Near Death Experience In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Marcellus Wiley - a former star Defensive End in the NFL, father, CEO, and sports media personality. Marcellus shares his journey from growing up in South Central LA and how it shaped his perspective on life to the decision to attend Columbia University and ultimately his experience playing professional football in the NFL. Marcellus's journey is one of success and failure, pain and joy, and family. My hope is you learn as much from listening to Marcellus as I did from interviewing him. 

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Defensive End, Sports Broadcaster, Father, CEO - Marcellus Wiley

(00:35) Impact of Fatherhood

(01:48) Growing Up in South Central LA & A Run In With the Crips

(04:12) The Importance of Perseverance

(07:24) Influence of Marcellus' Grandmother

(10:57) Taking Football Seriously

(13:30)The Significance of Playing Against #27

(16:54) Why Marcellus Chose Columbia

(20:13) Noise Complaints at Columbia

(23:49) What Columbia Taught Marcellus

(27:21) The Beauty Pagent at the NFL Draft Combine

(30:39) Initial Reaction After Getting Drafted 

(33:53) Thoughts on Buffalo as a City

(38:46) First "Oh Sh*T" Moment in the NFL

(41:10) Learning Pass Rush Techniques From the Vets

(42:46) Stealing Bruce Smith's Shoes

(45:51) Free Agency and Signing with the Chargers

(51:22) The Impact of Junior Seau

(53:46) Health Effects of Football

(56:57) How Max Kellerman Saved Marcellus's Wife

(59:36) The Four Corners of a Football Career

(01:02:08) Life Advice

Connect with Marcellus Wiley:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcelluswiley

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcelluswiley

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@marcelluswileydatdude

Project Transition: https://projecttransition.org/

Buy "Never Shut Up": https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/572553/never-shut-up-by-marcellus-wiley/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Fri, 22 Mar 2024 21:40:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/marcellus-wiley-UsC06Pdt In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Marcellus Wiley - a former star Defensive End in the NFL, father, CEO, and sports media personality. Marcellus shares his journey from growing up in South Central LA and how it shaped his perspective on life to the decision to attend Columbia University and ultimately his experience playing professional football in the NFL. Marcellus's journey is one of success and failure, pain and joy, and family. My hope is you learn as much from listening to Marcellus as I did from interviewing him. 

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Defensive End, Sports Broadcaster, Father, CEO - Marcellus Wiley

(00:35) Impact of Fatherhood

(01:48) Growing Up in South Central LA & A Run In With the Crips

(04:12) The Importance of Perseverance

(07:24) Influence of Marcellus' Grandmother

(10:57) Taking Football Seriously

(13:30)The Significance of Playing Against #27

(16:54) Why Marcellus Chose Columbia

(20:13) Noise Complaints at Columbia

(23:49) What Columbia Taught Marcellus

(27:21) The Beauty Pagent at the NFL Draft Combine

(30:39) Initial Reaction After Getting Drafted 

(33:53) Thoughts on Buffalo as a City

(38:46) First "Oh Sh*T" Moment in the NFL

(41:10) Learning Pass Rush Techniques From the Vets

(42:46) Stealing Bruce Smith's Shoes

(45:51) Free Agency and Signing with the Chargers

(51:22) The Impact of Junior Seau

(53:46) Health Effects of Football

(56:57) How Max Kellerman Saved Marcellus's Wife

(59:36) The Four Corners of a Football Career

(01:02:08) Life Advice

Connect with Marcellus Wiley:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/marcelluswiley

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/marcelluswiley

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@marcelluswileydatdude

Project Transition: https://projecttransition.org/

Buy "Never Shut Up": https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/572553/never-shut-up-by-marcellus-wiley/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Marcellus Wiley Unfiltered: Growing Up in Compton, Making Millions in the NFL & A Near Death Experience Nik Atanackovic 01:04:40 In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Marcellus Wiley - a former star Defensive End in the NFL, father, CEO, and sports media personality. Marcellus shares his journey from growing up in South Central LA and how it shaped his perspective on life to the decision to attend Columbia University and ultimately his experience playing professional football in the NFL. Marcellus's journey is one of success and failure, pain and joy, and family. My hope is you learn as much from listening to Marcellus as I did from interviewing him. In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Marcellus Wiley - a former star Defensive End in the NFL, father, CEO, and sports media personality. Marcellus shares his journey from growing up in South Central LA and how it shaped his perspective on life to the decision to attend Columbia University and ultimately his experience playing professional football in the NFL. Marcellus's journey is one of success and failure, pain and joy, and family. My hope is you learn as much from listening to Marcellus as I did from interviewing him. marcellus wiley, nfl, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, buffalo bills false full 14 93a7a774-f9b6-41a4-8897-78469ccb27a2 Olympic Gold Medalist Dan Jansen ON Navigating Tragedy, Speed Skating & The Power of Self-Belief In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Dan Jansen, a  four-time Olympian, seven-time World Cup Champion, and Olympic gold medalist in speed skating. Dan's story starts in Wisconsin, where he quickly picked up the sport of speed skating and set world records at the age of 16. However, tragedy struck Dan and his family as his beloved sister, Jane, tragically passed away right before the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. Dan contemplated retiring but decided to keep competing as that's what his sister would have wanted him to do. Dan's performance in the 1988 & 1992 Winter Olympics earned him the nickname "Heartbreak Kid" as Dan often times slipped during his races and finished with sub-par results. However, with the support of an entire country, including President Reagan, Dan triumphed at the 1994 Olympics, winning a gold medal and setting a new world record in what would be his final race. Dan Jansen's story has inspired and touched the hearts of millions of Americans, and I hope it inspires you today as you navigate your own journey. 

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Dan's Childhood

(01:49) Lessons Learned From Siblings

(03:58) Balancing Confidence and Humility

(06:31) Dan's Role Models Growing Up & Finding Speed Skating

(09:39) Setting World Records at 16

(10:27) What Does a Speed Skating Practice Look Like?

(14:12) What Was Dan's Motivation to Become the Best?

(17:32) Dreaming of the Olympics

(18:51) First Impressions of the Olympics

(22:06) Preparing for the 88' Olympics

(26:19) How Dan Dealt With the Tragic Passing of his Sister

(34:15) Debating Retirement

(39:41) Meeting Ronald Reagan and White House Visit

(42:36) The Influence of Peter Mueller & Dr. Jim Loehr and the Power of Self-Belief

(49:17) Visualizing Success

(52:41) Advice for Young Athletes

(54:54) The Emotions of Winning Gold

(57:09) The Pressure of Winning

(01:00:30) What Speed Skating Has Taught Dan About Life

(01:02:49) Would You Rather Have a 1 Minute Conversation With Your Past Self or Future Self?

(01:05:12) Dan's Life Advice

Connect with Dan Jansen:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/danjansen94

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danjansen1994/

Dan Jansen Foundation: https://www.djfoundation.org/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Fri, 15 Mar 2024 16:30:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/olympic-gold-medalist-on-dealing-with-tragedy-training-for-the-olympics-gold-medal-mindset-C5HrQpJI In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Dan Jansen, a  four-time Olympian, seven-time World Cup Champion, and Olympic gold medalist in speed skating. Dan's story starts in Wisconsin, where he quickly picked up the sport of speed skating and set world records at the age of 16. However, tragedy struck Dan and his family as his beloved sister, Jane, tragically passed away right before the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. Dan contemplated retiring but decided to keep competing as that's what his sister would have wanted him to do. Dan's performance in the 1988 & 1992 Winter Olympics earned him the nickname "Heartbreak Kid" as Dan often times slipped during his races and finished with sub-par results. However, with the support of an entire country, including President Reagan, Dan triumphed at the 1994 Olympics, winning a gold medal and setting a new world record in what would be his final race. Dan Jansen's story has inspired and touched the hearts of millions of Americans, and I hope it inspires you today as you navigate your own journey. 

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Dan's Childhood

(01:49) Lessons Learned From Siblings

(03:58) Balancing Confidence and Humility

(06:31) Dan's Role Models Growing Up & Finding Speed Skating

(09:39) Setting World Records at 16

(10:27) What Does a Speed Skating Practice Look Like?

(14:12) What Was Dan's Motivation to Become the Best?

(17:32) Dreaming of the Olympics

(18:51) First Impressions of the Olympics

(22:06) Preparing for the 88' Olympics

(26:19) How Dan Dealt With the Tragic Passing of his Sister

(34:15) Debating Retirement

(39:41) Meeting Ronald Reagan and White House Visit

(42:36) The Influence of Peter Mueller & Dr. Jim Loehr and the Power of Self-Belief

(49:17) Visualizing Success

(52:41) Advice for Young Athletes

(54:54) The Emotions of Winning Gold

(57:09) The Pressure of Winning

(01:00:30) What Speed Skating Has Taught Dan About Life

(01:02:49) Would You Rather Have a 1 Minute Conversation With Your Past Self or Future Self?

(01:05:12) Dan's Life Advice

Connect with Dan Jansen:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/danjansen94

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/danjansen1994/

Dan Jansen Foundation: https://www.djfoundation.org/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Olympic Gold Medalist Dan Jansen ON Navigating Tragedy, Speed Skating & The Power of Self-Belief Nik Atanackovic 01:06:36 In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Dan Jansen, a four-time Olympian, seven-time World Cup Champion, and Olympic gold medal winning speed skater. Dan's story starts in Wisconsin, where he quickly picked up the sport of speed skating and set world records at the young age of 16. However, tragedy struck Dan and his family as his beloved sister, Jane, tragically passed away right before the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. Dan contemplated retiring but decided to keep competing as that's what his sister would have wanted him to do. Dan's performance in the 1988 & 1992 Winter Olympics earned him the nickname "Heartbreak Kid" as Dan often times slipped during his races and finished with sub-par results. However, with the support of an entire country, including President Reagan, Dan triumphed at the 1994 Olympics, winning a gold medal and setting a new world record in what would be his final race. Dan Jansen's story has inspired and touched the hearts of millions of Americans, and I hope it inspires you today as you navigate your own journey. In this episode of The Victory Degree Podcast, Nik sits down with Dan Jansen, a four-time Olympian, seven-time World Cup Champion, and Olympic gold medal winning speed skater. Dan's story starts in Wisconsin, where he quickly picked up the sport of speed skating and set world records at the young age of 16. However, tragedy struck Dan and his family as his beloved sister, Jane, tragically passed away right before the 1988 Winter Olympics in Calgary. Dan contemplated retiring but decided to keep competing as that's what his sister would have wanted him to do. Dan's performance in the 1988 & 1992 Winter Olympics earned him the nickname "Heartbreak Kid" as Dan often times slipped during his races and finished with sub-par results. However, with the support of an entire country, including President Reagan, Dan triumphed at the 1994 Olympics, winning a gold medal and setting a new world record in what would be his final race. Dan Jansen's story has inspired and touched the hearts of millions of Americans, and I hope it inspires you today as you navigate your own journey. false full 13 31c536e7-f494-492e-865e-9660b5671648 Adam Breneman ON: Playing at Penn State, Greatest Tight End of All Time & Lessons Learned from Jared Goff, Michael Penix & MORE In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Adam Breneman: a former Penn State Tight End turned entrepreneur and podcast host. Adam discusses his relationship with football, the decision to join Penn State, how difficult it really is to be a good sports broadcaster, and lessons learned from some of his top podcast guests (Jersey Jerry, RGII, Will Compton, etc.). Adam also gives the audience a masterclass on how to play the tight end position which includes insights the average fan may not realize. As with every interview, the episode ends with Adam's life advice. 

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Introduction and How Adam Manages His Time

(03:01) Overcoming the Fear of Failure

(06:00) Balancing Feedback and Not Caring What Others Think

(09:22) The Influence and Impact of Adam's Father

(11:31) The Best Advice Adam's Father Gave Him 

(12:39) How Adam Differentiates Himself

(14:59) A Masterclass in Sports Broadcasting

(18:15) Why Adam Chose Penn State

(23:43) Adam's Impact on Penn State As Told By Coach James Franklin

(26:59) Adam's Football Regrets 

(31:28) The Story of the Chinese Farmer and How It Applies to Adam's Life

(35:22) Lessons Learned from Adam's Podcast Guest

(36:22) Jersey Jerry

(37:26) RGIII

(38:33) Michael Penix

(39:55) Michael Penix as a Draft Prospect

(41:29) Will Compton

(43:17) Kenny Pickett

(44:20) Jared Goff

(45:37) Celebrating Jared Goff's Success

(46:47) Football from a Tight End's Perspective

(48:40) The Greatest Tight End of All Time

(49:20) Adam's Life Advice

Connect with Adam Breneman:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AdamBreneman81

Next Up with Adam Breneman Twitter: https://twitter.com/NextUpWithAdam

Next Up with Adam Breneman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextupwithab/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adambreneman/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NextUpWithAdam

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

Email: nikola1.atanackovic@gmail.com

]]> Thu, 7 Mar 2024 21:15:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/adam-breneman-on-football-from-a-tight-ends-perspective-greatest-tight-end-of-all-time-lessons-learned-from-jared-goff-michael-penix-more-jDKNrlsd In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Adam Breneman: a former Penn State Tight End turned entrepreneur and podcast host. Adam discusses his relationship with football, the decision to join Penn State, how difficult it really is to be a good sports broadcaster, and lessons learned from some of his top podcast guests (Jersey Jerry, RGII, Will Compton, etc.). Adam also gives the audience a masterclass on how to play the tight end position which includes insights the average fan may not realize. As with every interview, the episode ends with Adam's life advice. 

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Introduction and How Adam Manages His Time

(03:01) Overcoming the Fear of Failure

(06:00) Balancing Feedback and Not Caring What Others Think

(09:22) The Influence and Impact of Adam's Father

(11:31) The Best Advice Adam's Father Gave Him 

(12:39) How Adam Differentiates Himself

(14:59) A Masterclass in Sports Broadcasting

(18:15) Why Adam Chose Penn State

(23:43) Adam's Impact on Penn State As Told By Coach James Franklin

(26:59) Adam's Football Regrets 

(31:28) The Story of the Chinese Farmer and How It Applies to Adam's Life

(35:22) Lessons Learned from Adam's Podcast Guest

(36:22) Jersey Jerry

(37:26) RGIII

(38:33) Michael Penix

(39:55) Michael Penix as a Draft Prospect

(41:29) Will Compton

(43:17) Kenny Pickett

(44:20) Jared Goff

(45:37) Celebrating Jared Goff's Success

(46:47) Football from a Tight End's Perspective

(48:40) The Greatest Tight End of All Time

(49:20) Adam's Life Advice

Connect with Adam Breneman:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/AdamBreneman81

Next Up with Adam Breneman Twitter: https://twitter.com/NextUpWithAdam

Next Up with Adam Breneman Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nextupwithab/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/adambreneman/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@NextUpWithAdam

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

Email: nikola1.atanackovic@gmail.com

]]> Adam Breneman ON: Playing at Penn State, Greatest Tight End of All Time & Lessons Learned from Jared Goff, Michael Penix & MORE Nik Atanackovic 00:51:22 In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Adam Breneman: a former Penn State Tight End turned entrepreneur and podcast host. Adam discusses his relationship with football, the decision to join Penn State, how difficult it really is to be a good sports broadcaster, and lessons learned from some of his top podcast guests (Jersey Jerry, RGII, Will Compton, etc.). Adam also gives the audience a masterclass on how to play the tight end position which includes insights the average fan may not realize. As with every interview, the episode ends with Adam's life advice. In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Adam Breneman: a former Penn State Tight End turned entrepreneur and podcast host. Adam discusses his relationship with football, the decision to join Penn State, how difficult it really is to be a good sports broadcaster, and lessons learned from some of his top podcast guests (Jersey Jerry, RGII, Will Compton, etc.). Adam also gives the audience a masterclass on how to play the tight end position which includes insights the average fan may not realize. As with every interview, the episode ends with Adam's life advice. next up, will compton, the victory degree, michael penix, penn state, victory degree, jersey jerry, adam breneman, nik false full 12 e79ec22a-2da5-4d59-beda-e9bef342ccae MLB 1st Round Pick On Rooming With Mike Trout, Why Athletes Suck at Protecting Their Wealth & How to Attract Success | Jacob Turner In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Jacob Turner: a former Detroit Tigers pitcher turned wealth manager and content creator. The conversation revolves around topics such as: Jacob's journey from high school to the big leagues, the influence of his father, what it's like getting drafted in the 1st round, how to handle receiving $1.2M at the age of 18, frameworks for success, how to build and protect wealth, and the best baseball fan bases and cities in the country. There's also a Mike Trout story thrown in there, because why not?

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Introduction

(00:44) Who is Jacob Turner?

(01:43) Why Jacob hates telling others he was a professional athlete

(03:35) Influence of Jacob's Father

(05:23) The Importance of Youth Sports

(08:12) Why Jacob Decided to Play Baseball

(09:35) The Motivation Behind Continuous Self-Improvement

(11:45) Draft Day Experience

(15:21) Receiving $1.2M at the age of 18

(17:12) #1 Financial Mistake Athletes Make

(19:21) Is St.Louis a Baseball Town?

(20:08) The Importance of Proximity in Entrepreneurship

(21:01) The Impact of Inputs and Perspective

(22:18) Level of Talent in the MLB

(24:48) Never Stop Growing

(27:50) Do Things That Don't Scale

(29:52) What Jacob learned from his roommate, Mike Trout

(32:19) The Importance of Delusional Self-Belief

(35:16) How You Can Choose to be Confident 

(38:51) Mental Hurdles as a Pitcher

(39:53) What is the Flow State and Why You Need It

(45:16) The Importance of Repetition

(47:55) The Power of Focus

(49:31) How to Know When to Quit

(52:38) Should You Set Goals?

(54:13) What was Jacob's Goal With Professional Baseball?

(56:33) Where It All Went Wrong for Jacob

(59:15) Lessons Learned from Playing in the MLB

(01:04:31) 70% of Athletes Go Broke Within 3 Years of Retirement

(01:07:56) Jacob's Personal Goals for Moment Wealth

(01:09:25) Always Make Time for Family

(01:13:21) Favorite Baseball Cities and Fan Bases

(01:15:37) Jacob's Life Advice

Connect with Jacob Turner:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheJacobTurner

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejacob_turner/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheJacobTurner/featured

Moment Wealth: https://www.momentprivatewealth.com/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

Email: nikola1.atanackovic@gmail.com

]]> Thu, 29 Feb 2024 00:10:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/mlb-1st-round-pick-XifFUyNZ In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Jacob Turner: a former Detroit Tigers pitcher turned wealth manager and content creator. The conversation revolves around topics such as: Jacob's journey from high school to the big leagues, the influence of his father, what it's like getting drafted in the 1st round, how to handle receiving $1.2M at the age of 18, frameworks for success, how to build and protect wealth, and the best baseball fan bases and cities in the country. There's also a Mike Trout story thrown in there, because why not?

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Introduction

(00:44) Who is Jacob Turner?

(01:43) Why Jacob hates telling others he was a professional athlete

(03:35) Influence of Jacob's Father

(05:23) The Importance of Youth Sports

(08:12) Why Jacob Decided to Play Baseball

(09:35) The Motivation Behind Continuous Self-Improvement

(11:45) Draft Day Experience

(15:21) Receiving $1.2M at the age of 18

(17:12) #1 Financial Mistake Athletes Make

(19:21) Is St.Louis a Baseball Town?

(20:08) The Importance of Proximity in Entrepreneurship

(21:01) The Impact of Inputs and Perspective

(22:18) Level of Talent in the MLB

(24:48) Never Stop Growing

(27:50) Do Things That Don't Scale

(29:52) What Jacob learned from his roommate, Mike Trout

(32:19) The Importance of Delusional Self-Belief

(35:16) How You Can Choose to be Confident 

(38:51) Mental Hurdles as a Pitcher

(39:53) What is the Flow State and Why You Need It

(45:16) The Importance of Repetition

(47:55) The Power of Focus

(49:31) How to Know When to Quit

(52:38) Should You Set Goals?

(54:13) What was Jacob's Goal With Professional Baseball?

(56:33) Where It All Went Wrong for Jacob

(59:15) Lessons Learned from Playing in the MLB

(01:04:31) 70% of Athletes Go Broke Within 3 Years of Retirement

(01:07:56) Jacob's Personal Goals for Moment Wealth

(01:09:25) Always Make Time for Family

(01:13:21) Favorite Baseball Cities and Fan Bases

(01:15:37) Jacob's Life Advice

Connect with Jacob Turner:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/TheJacobTurner

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thejacob_turner/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@TheJacobTurner/featured

Moment Wealth: https://www.momentprivatewealth.com/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

Email: nikola1.atanackovic@gmail.com

]]> MLB 1st Round Pick On Rooming With Mike Trout, Why Athletes Suck at Protecting Their Wealth & How to Attract Success | Jacob Turner Nik Atanackovic 01:15:38 In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Jacob Turner: a former Detroit Tigers pitcher turned wealth manager and content creator. The conversation revolves around topics such as: Jacob's journey from high school to the big leagues, the influence of his father, what it's like getting drafted in the 1st round, how to handle receiving $1.2M at the age of 18, frameworks for success, how to build and protect wealth, and the best baseball fan bases and cities in the country. There's also a Mike Trout story thrown in there, because why not? In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Jacob Turner: a former Detroit Tigers pitcher turned wealth manager and content creator. The conversation revolves around topics such as: Jacob's journey from high school to the big leagues, the influence of his father, what it's like getting drafted in the 1st round, how to handle receiving $1.2M at the age of 18, frameworks for success, how to build and protect wealth, and the best baseball fan bases and cities in the country. There's also a Mike Trout story thrown in there, because why not? wealth, detroit tigers, jacob turner, the victory degree, mlb, victory degree, athletes, athlete, pitcher, first round pick false full 11 650ff408-a169-4b29-8185-a1f6be7a479b Regenerative Medicine Expert on NFL Injuries, Concussions & Advances in Sports Medicine | Dr. Jesse Morse In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Dr. Jesse Morse: a sports and family medicine physician specializing in regenerative medicine. Dr. Morse discusses his personal journey, the responsibility of a sports and family medicine physician, the reactive nature of the healthcare system, regenerative medicine, the impact of genetics on injury proneness, analyzing NFL players' injury history, and the role of sports medicine in enabling longevity in athletes. He also highlights the limitations of traditional medicine and the need to explore non-traditional options. The conversation touches on concussions and the long-term effects of CTE, as well as Aaron Rodgers' injury and recovery. 

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Introduction and Jesse's Near Death Experience

(03:11) Responsibility as a Sports and Family Medicine Physician

(07:04) Why Healthcare in the United States is Terrible

(11:18) What is PRP and Why It's Beneficial to Athletes 

(17:19) Why Are Some Athletes More Injury Prone Than Others?

(20:23) Why Some Athletes Are Better at Dealing With Injuries 

(22:41) Compiling the Injury History of Nearly Every NFL Player

(28:05) Importance of Injury Histories in Drafting Players

(38:48) The Golden Era of Longevity and Advances in Sports Medicine

(46:41) A Discussion on Anti-Aging

(51:07) Daily Habits for a Longer and Healthier Life

(01:00:43) Concussions and CTE

(01:05:04) Aaron Rodgers' Injury and Recovery

(01:08:58) Life Advice

Connect with Dr. Jesse Morse:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrJesseMorse

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjessemorse/

Eternal Vitality Podcast: https://twitter.com/EternalVitPod

The Osteopathic Center: https://theosteocenter.com/

The Fantasy Doctors: https://twitter.com/TheFantasyDRS

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

Email: nikola1.atanackovic@gmail.com

]]> Mon, 19 Feb 2024 17:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/drjessemorse-X4Z8YQ4l In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Dr. Jesse Morse: a sports and family medicine physician specializing in regenerative medicine. Dr. Morse discusses his personal journey, the responsibility of a sports and family medicine physician, the reactive nature of the healthcare system, regenerative medicine, the impact of genetics on injury proneness, analyzing NFL players' injury history, and the role of sports medicine in enabling longevity in athletes. He also highlights the limitations of traditional medicine and the need to explore non-traditional options. The conversation touches on concussions and the long-term effects of CTE, as well as Aaron Rodgers' injury and recovery. 

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS

(00:00) Introduction and Jesse's Near Death Experience

(03:11) Responsibility as a Sports and Family Medicine Physician

(07:04) Why Healthcare in the United States is Terrible

(11:18) What is PRP and Why It's Beneficial to Athletes 

(17:19) Why Are Some Athletes More Injury Prone Than Others?

(20:23) Why Some Athletes Are Better at Dealing With Injuries 

(22:41) Compiling the Injury History of Nearly Every NFL Player

(28:05) Importance of Injury Histories in Drafting Players

(38:48) The Golden Era of Longevity and Advances in Sports Medicine

(46:41) A Discussion on Anti-Aging

(51:07) Daily Habits for a Longer and Healthier Life

(01:00:43) Concussions and CTE

(01:05:04) Aaron Rodgers' Injury and Recovery

(01:08:58) Life Advice

Connect with Dr. Jesse Morse:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/DrJesseMorse

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/drjessemorse/

Eternal Vitality Podcast: https://twitter.com/EternalVitPod

The Osteopathic Center: https://theosteocenter.com/

The Fantasy Doctors: https://twitter.com/TheFantasyDRS

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

Email: nikola1.atanackovic@gmail.com

]]> Regenerative Medicine Expert on NFL Injuries, Concussions & Advances in Sports Medicine | Dr. Jesse Morse Nik Atanackovic 01:11:34 In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Dr. Jesse Morse: a sports and family medicine physician specializing in regenerative medicine. Dr. Morse discusses his personal journey, the responsibility of a sports and family medicine physician, the reactive nature of the healthcare system, regenerative medicine, the impact of genetics on injury proneness, analyzing NFL players' injury history, and the role of sports medicine in enabling longevity in athletes. He also highlights the limitations of traditional medicine and the need to explore non-traditional options. The conversation touches on concussions and the long-term effects of CTE, as well as Aaron Rodgers' injury and recovery. In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Dr. Jesse Morse: a sports and family medicine physician specializing in regenerative medicine. Dr. Morse discusses his personal journey, the responsibility of a sports and family medicine physician, the reactive nature of the healthcare system, regenerative medicine, the impact of genetics on injury proneness, analyzing NFL players' injury history, and the role of sports medicine in enabling longevity in athletes. He also highlights the limitations of traditional medicine and the need to explore non-traditional options. The conversation touches on concussions and the long-term effects of CTE, as well as Aaron Rodgers' injury and recovery. concussion, jesse morse, nfl, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, aaron rodgers, cte, fantasy football false full 10 1422d5fa-1ef9-489c-879b-5de12c355055 Sports Leadership Expert Jamy Bechler ON: Cultivating A Winning Mindset, Working With The Toronto Raptors & Importance of Self-Belief In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Jamy Bechler: author of 5 books, professional speaker, leadership coach, and host of the "Success is a Choice" podcasting network. Before starting his consulting firm, Bechler Leadership, Jamy spent 20 years as a college basketball coach and high school athletic director. Bechler now works with high-level individuals and teams, such as the Toronto Raptors and Milwaukee Bucks, helping them maximize their potential in the area of leadership, culture, and teamwork. In this episode, Jamy and Nik discuss the importance of choices, the victim mentality, the role of leadership, the impact of distractions, the significance of teammates and culture, the influence of role models, and overcoming challenges. Jamy shares personal stories and examples, such as Tom Brady and Pat Tillman, to illustrate these concepts and emphasizes the importance of hard work, a goal-oriented mindset, and learning from others. He encourages continuous learning and personal growth to become the best version of oneself.

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS:

(0:00) Introduction and Background

(05:13) How to defeat victim mentality

(13:06) The importance of leadership and a Fred Van Vleet story

(24:30) The role of teammates and George Pickens

(31:45) What makes CJ Stroud special

(32:37) Remembering it's a team game - praising Michigan football

(37:18) How Pat Murphy learned from other sports to improve Alabama softball 

(44:18) Choose your hard

(49:24) The story of Two Brothers and how to apply it to life

(53:25) Why Kobe Bryant reached the levels he did in the NBA (insane story)

(57:10) Should you strive to live a balanced life?

(01:03:04) Why Tom Brady's journey is a masterclass in belief

(01:06:36) Living by Ideals: The Story of Pat Tillman

(01:12:44) Jamy's life advice

Connect with Jamy:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CoachBechler

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachbechler/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/BechlerLeadership

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jamybechler

Jamy's Website: https://jamybechler.com/

"Success is a Choice" Podcast: https://jamybechler.com/podcast

The Bus Trip Book: https://jamybechler.com/TheBusTrip/

The Captain Book: https://jamybechler.com/thecaptainbook/

Bulletin Board Book: https://jamybechler.com/bulletinboardbook/

Online Leadership Program: https://theleadershipplaybook.com/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

Email: nikola1.atanackovic@gmail.com

]]> Sat, 10 Feb 2024 00:15:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/leadership-expert-do-this-to-become-a-better-leader-jamy-bechler-RexzWIBY In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Jamy Bechler: author of 5 books, professional speaker, leadership coach, and host of the "Success is a Choice" podcasting network. Before starting his consulting firm, Bechler Leadership, Jamy spent 20 years as a college basketball coach and high school athletic director. Bechler now works with high-level individuals and teams, such as the Toronto Raptors and Milwaukee Bucks, helping them maximize their potential in the area of leadership, culture, and teamwork. In this episode, Jamy and Nik discuss the importance of choices, the victim mentality, the role of leadership, the impact of distractions, the significance of teammates and culture, the influence of role models, and overcoming challenges. Jamy shares personal stories and examples, such as Tom Brady and Pat Tillman, to illustrate these concepts and emphasizes the importance of hard work, a goal-oriented mindset, and learning from others. He encourages continuous learning and personal growth to become the best version of oneself.

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS:

(0:00) Introduction and Background

(05:13) How to defeat victim mentality

(13:06) The importance of leadership and a Fred Van Vleet story

(24:30) The role of teammates and George Pickens

(31:45) What makes CJ Stroud special

(32:37) Remembering it's a team game - praising Michigan football

(37:18) How Pat Murphy learned from other sports to improve Alabama softball 

(44:18) Choose your hard

(49:24) The story of Two Brothers and how to apply it to life

(53:25) Why Kobe Bryant reached the levels he did in the NBA (insane story)

(57:10) Should you strive to live a balanced life?

(01:03:04) Why Tom Brady's journey is a masterclass in belief

(01:06:36) Living by Ideals: The Story of Pat Tillman

(01:12:44) Jamy's life advice

Connect with Jamy:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/CoachBechler

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/coachbechler/

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/BechlerLeadership

LinkedIn: http://www.linkedin.com/in/jamybechler

Jamy's Website: https://jamybechler.com/

"Success is a Choice" Podcast: https://jamybechler.com/podcast

The Bus Trip Book: https://jamybechler.com/TheBusTrip/

The Captain Book: https://jamybechler.com/thecaptainbook/

Bulletin Board Book: https://jamybechler.com/bulletinboardbook/

Online Leadership Program: https://theleadershipplaybook.com/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

Email: nikola1.atanackovic@gmail.com

]]> Sports Leadership Expert Jamy Bechler ON: Cultivating A Winning Mindset, Working With The Toronto Raptors & Importance of Self-Belief Nik Atanackovic 01:17:13 In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Jamy Bechler: author of 5 books, professional speaker, leadership coach, and host of the "Success is a Choice" podcasting network. Before starting his consulting firm, Bechler Leadership, Jamy spent 20 years as a college basketball coach and high school athletic director. Bechler now works with high-level individuals and teams, such as the Toronto Raptors and Milwaukee Bucks, helping them maximize their potential in the area of leadership, culture, and teamwork. In this episode, Jamy and Nik discuss the importance of choices, the victim mentality, the role of leadership, the impact of distractions, the significance of teammates and culture, the influence of role models, and overcoming challenges. Jamy shares personal stories and examples, such as Tom Brady and Pat Tillman, to illustrate these concepts and emphasizes the importance of hard work, a goal-oriented mindset, and learning from others. He encourages continuous learning and personal growth to become the best version of oneself. In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Jamy Bechler: author of 5 books, professional speaker, leadership coach, and host of the "Success is a Choice" podcasting network. Before starting his consulting firm, Bechler Leadership, Jamy spent 20 years as a college basketball coach and high school athletic director. Bechler now works with high-level individuals and teams, such as the Toronto Raptors and Milwaukee Bucks, helping them maximize their potential in the area of leadership, culture, and teamwork. In this episode, Jamy and Nik discuss the importance of choices, the victim mentality, the role of leadership, the impact of distractions, the significance of teammates and culture, the influence of role models, and overcoming challenges. Jamy shares personal stories and examples, such as Tom Brady and Pat Tillman, to illustrate these concepts and emphasizes the importance of hard work, a goal-oriented mindset, and learning from others. He encourages continuous learning and personal growth to become the best version of oneself. the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, jamy bechler, fred van vleet false full 9 6b06a881-7ca6-42ff-a5b4-ed51a2b862e1 Lessons & Stories From the NFL's First African-American Punter | Greg Coleman In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with the NFL's first African-American punter: Greg Coleman. Greg shares his journey from the time he was a young boy in Jacksonville, Florida with a dream to play in the NFL to playing for an iconic NFL franchise: the Minnesota Vikings. Greg's journey is filled with disappointment, racism, and adversity but ultimately highlights the importance of resilience and the power of words in overcoming obstacles.  This conversation serves to shed light on to one of the greatest success stories the NFL has ever seen.

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS:

(0:00) Introduction & Greg's Jacksonville childhood

(18:11) Experiencing racism as a pee-wee football player

(19:39) The role of Greg's parents in his own success

(27:07) Punts are more important than you think

(28:35) Leading with love and prevailing against racism

(33:25) Second chances and Greg's journey to the Minnesota Vikings

(39:25) Getting up when life knocks you down

(41:23) Overcoming adversity & racism in the NFL

(45:23) Marquette King

(46:59) Racial Slurs and Challenges as an African American Punter

(48:19) Coming Together and Being a Light of Hope

(52:15) What makes CJ Stroud an incredible leader (a lesson on leadership)

(1:02:48) The psychology of punting (inside the mind of Greg Coleman)

(1:07:24) A deep dive on kickers and the importance of holders

(1:12:02) Greg's life advice and learning to P.U.N.T

Connect with Greg:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregcoleman8

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregcoleman08/

Greg's Website: https://gregcoleman8.com/

Buy "Punt: Flip the Field": https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CM5Y62MB

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

Email: nikola1.atanackovic@gmail.com

]]> Thu, 1 Feb 2024 18:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/lessons-stories-from-the-nfls-first-african-american-punter-greg-coleman-ZJsq_09h In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with the NFL's first African-American punter: Greg Coleman. Greg shares his journey from the time he was a young boy in Jacksonville, Florida with a dream to play in the NFL to playing for an iconic NFL franchise: the Minnesota Vikings. Greg's journey is filled with disappointment, racism, and adversity but ultimately highlights the importance of resilience and the power of words in overcoming obstacles.  This conversation serves to shed light on to one of the greatest success stories the NFL has ever seen.

Please Enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS:

(0:00) Introduction & Greg's Jacksonville childhood

(18:11) Experiencing racism as a pee-wee football player

(19:39) The role of Greg's parents in his own success

(27:07) Punts are more important than you think

(28:35) Leading with love and prevailing against racism

(33:25) Second chances and Greg's journey to the Minnesota Vikings

(39:25) Getting up when life knocks you down

(41:23) Overcoming adversity & racism in the NFL

(45:23) Marquette King

(46:59) Racial Slurs and Challenges as an African American Punter

(48:19) Coming Together and Being a Light of Hope

(52:15) What makes CJ Stroud an incredible leader (a lesson on leadership)

(1:02:48) The psychology of punting (inside the mind of Greg Coleman)

(1:07:24) A deep dive on kickers and the importance of holders

(1:12:02) Greg's life advice and learning to P.U.N.T

Connect with Greg:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/gregcoleman8

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/gregcoleman08/

Greg's Website: https://gregcoleman8.com/

Buy "Punt: Flip the Field": https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0CM5Y62MB

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

Email: nikola1.atanackovic@gmail.com

]]> Lessons & Stories From the NFL's First African-American Punter | Greg Coleman Nik Atanackovic 01:15:02 In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with the NFL's first African-American punter: Greg Coleman. Greg shares his journey from the time he was a young boy in Jacksonville, Florida with a dream to play in the NFL to playing for an iconic NFL franchise: the Minnesota Vikings. Greg's journey is filled with disappointment, racism, and adversity but ultimately highlights the importance of resilience and the power of words in overcoming obstacles. This conversation serves to shed light on to one of the greatest success stories the NFL has ever seen. In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with the NFL's first African-American punter: Greg Coleman. Greg shares his journey from the time he was a young boy in Jacksonville, Florida with a dream to play in the NFL to playing for an iconic NFL franchise: the Minnesota Vikings. Greg's journey is filled with disappointment, racism, and adversity but ultimately highlights the importance of resilience and the power of words in overcoming obstacles. This conversation serves to shed light on to one of the greatest success stories the NFL has ever seen. nfl, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, minnesota vikings, vikings, greg coleman, nik false full 8 9fb593e8-2ed0-4cb4-b2f9-ab2c6aadf2e7 CJ Watson ON Playing With Steph Curry, Life in the NBA & Entrepreneurship In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with former NBA basketball player: CJ Watson. CJ's first stint in the NBA came with the Golden State Warriors in 2008, where he played for a couple of seasons until he joined the Chicago Bulls in '10. CJ went on to play for a multitude of teams including the: Nets, Pacers, and Orlando Magic until ultimately finishing his professional career in Turkey. CJ played with HoF players like Steph Curry and Derrick Rose and chronicles his journey in this exclusive interview. From humble beginnings in Tennessee to playing against LeBron James and the Miami Heat, CJ's story is one worth listening to. 

Please enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS:

(0:00) Introductions and the Sacramento Kings

(2:18) What is CJ most proud of?

(3:15) Where and how CJ's passion for basketball began

(4:53) CJ's college experience and setting records

(7:42) Playing with Deron Williams and Team USA

(9:42) Why you should play basketball for the love of the game

(10:10) How the NBA has changed since CJ's playing days

(12:23) Why is playing in a game so much more difficult than practice?

(15:18) Playing with rookie year Steph Curry and the importance of hard work

(17:47) The Rose flu

(18:55) The hardest player CJ had to guard

(20:13) CJ's draft night story and how to succeed at the highest level

(24:16) Do NBA players go out before games?

(26:26) The Pacers and Heat rivalry 

(28:29) Playing for Coach Thibodeau

(30:25) CJ's strategy for guarding the KD Warriors

(31:41) Making adjustments in the playoffs

(33:12) What was CJ's relationship with social media during his career?

(36:00) Top 3 players CJ played with and regrets from his time in the league

(37:10) Writing children's books, voiceovers, angel investing, and favorite teammates

(42:30) CJ's life advice

Connect with CJ:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Quietstorm_32

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quietstorm_32/

Quiet Storm Foundation: https://www.quietstormfoundation.org/

Children's Books: https://cjpens.com/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Thu, 25 Jan 2024 00:40:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/from-humble-beginnings-in-tennessee-to-playing-with-steph-curry-d-rose-cj-watson-_H1LX_oO In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with former NBA basketball player: CJ Watson. CJ's first stint in the NBA came with the Golden State Warriors in 2008, where he played for a couple of seasons until he joined the Chicago Bulls in '10. CJ went on to play for a multitude of teams including the: Nets, Pacers, and Orlando Magic until ultimately finishing his professional career in Turkey. CJ played with HoF players like Steph Curry and Derrick Rose and chronicles his journey in this exclusive interview. From humble beginnings in Tennessee to playing against LeBron James and the Miami Heat, CJ's story is one worth listening to. 

Please enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS:

(0:00) Introductions and the Sacramento Kings

(2:18) What is CJ most proud of?

(3:15) Where and how CJ's passion for basketball began

(4:53) CJ's college experience and setting records

(7:42) Playing with Deron Williams and Team USA

(9:42) Why you should play basketball for the love of the game

(10:10) How the NBA has changed since CJ's playing days

(12:23) Why is playing in a game so much more difficult than practice?

(15:18) Playing with rookie year Steph Curry and the importance of hard work

(17:47) The Rose flu

(18:55) The hardest player CJ had to guard

(20:13) CJ's draft night story and how to succeed at the highest level

(24:16) Do NBA players go out before games?

(26:26) The Pacers and Heat rivalry 

(28:29) Playing for Coach Thibodeau

(30:25) CJ's strategy for guarding the KD Warriors

(31:41) Making adjustments in the playoffs

(33:12) What was CJ's relationship with social media during his career?

(36:00) Top 3 players CJ played with and regrets from his time in the league

(37:10) Writing children's books, voiceovers, angel investing, and favorite teammates

(42:30) CJ's life advice

Connect with CJ:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Quietstorm_32

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/quietstorm_32/

Quiet Storm Foundation: https://www.quietstormfoundation.org/

Children's Books: https://cjpens.com/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> CJ Watson ON Playing With Steph Curry, Life in the NBA & Entrepreneurship Nik Atanackovic 00:44:02 In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with former NBA basketball player: CJ Watson. CJ's first stint in the NBA came with the Golden State Warriors in 2008, where he played for a couple of seasons until he joined the Chicago Bulls in '10. CJ went on to play for a multitude of teams including the: Nets, Pacers, and Orlando Magic until ultimately finishing his professional career in Turkey. CJ played with HoF players like Steph Curry and Derrick Rose and chronicles his journey in this exclusive interview. From humble beginnings in Tennessee to playing against LeBron James and the Miami Heat, CJ's story is one worth listening to. In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with former NBA basketball player: CJ Watson. CJ's first stint in the NBA came with the Golden State Warriors in 2008, where he played for a couple of seasons until he joined the Chicago Bulls in '10. CJ went on to play for a multitude of teams including the: Nets, Pacers, and Orlando Magic until ultimately finishing his professional career in Turkey. CJ played with HoF players like Steph Curry and Derrick Rose and chronicles his journey in this exclusive interview. From humble beginnings in Tennessee to playing against LeBron James and the Miami Heat, CJ's story is one worth listening to. curry, nba, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, cj watson, steph curry, derrick rose, d rose, nik false full 7 cef6a564-f19e-408b-857a-b306a6f798dd Rajeev Ram ON Being #1 In The World, Life On The ATP Tour & Playing With Venus Williams In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with the former #1 doubles tennis player in the world: Rajeev Ram. Rajeev's resume is impressive: 6 time major champion, 3 straight US Open titles, and doubles silver with Venus Williams at the 2016 Summer Olympics. But even more impressive was the advice he shared on how to live a happier and more fulfilled life. The conversation spans multiple topics including: how to maximize longevity, life lessons from tennis, and an exclusive Venus Williams story.

Please enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS:

(0:00) Rajeev's background and introduction 

(1:18) What are you most proud of?

(2:02) Where and how did your love for tennis begin?

(3:29) What role should parents play in a young athlete's life?

(5:30) The moment Rajeev realized he could make money playing tennis

(6:47) The benefits and drawbacks of a coach

(10:03) Why Rajeev made the decision to focus solely on doubles tennis

(11:51) Brown Sampras

(13:22) How Rajeev wants people to remember him

(14:34) Where Rajeev's habit of continuous self-improvement stems from

(17:53) How to handle self-doubt and build self-confidence

(20:41) How to stay motivated and more present in key moments

(25:04) The attention to detail required to win at the highest level

(28:12) How to develop mental strength and the constant battle with our own thoughts

(30:12) How Rajeev deals with negativity during a tennis match

(33:23) Rajeev's greatest source of pressure

(34:17) Playing with Venus Williams

(39:18) The relationships between players on tour

(40:56) Life as a public figure

(42:13) Highest and lowest moments in Rajeev's career

(43:57) How Rajeev has managed to stay on top of his game at the age of 39 - a discussion on longevity 

(47:14) Rajeev's solution to get American tennis back on top

(49:18) The art of sacrifice and is it required?

(51:03) Life lessons from tennis

(51:58) Rajeev's plans after tennis and the Rajeev Ram Foundation

(53:31) Rajeev's routine during the tennis offseason

(54:46) Rajeev's life advice

Connect with Rajeev:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RajeevRam

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rajeevram318/

Rajeev Ram Foundation: https://rajeevramfoundation.org/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Wed, 17 Jan 2024 01:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/former-1-tennis-player-in-the-world-rajeev-ram-Ngjnv8es In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with the former #1 doubles tennis player in the world: Rajeev Ram. Rajeev's resume is impressive: 6 time major champion, 3 straight US Open titles, and doubles silver with Venus Williams at the 2016 Summer Olympics. But even more impressive was the advice he shared on how to live a happier and more fulfilled life. The conversation spans multiple topics including: how to maximize longevity, life lessons from tennis, and an exclusive Venus Williams story.

Please enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS:

(0:00) Rajeev's background and introduction 

(1:18) What are you most proud of?

(2:02) Where and how did your love for tennis begin?

(3:29) What role should parents play in a young athlete's life?

(5:30) The moment Rajeev realized he could make money playing tennis

(6:47) The benefits and drawbacks of a coach

(10:03) Why Rajeev made the decision to focus solely on doubles tennis

(11:51) Brown Sampras

(13:22) How Rajeev wants people to remember him

(14:34) Where Rajeev's habit of continuous self-improvement stems from

(17:53) How to handle self-doubt and build self-confidence

(20:41) How to stay motivated and more present in key moments

(25:04) The attention to detail required to win at the highest level

(28:12) How to develop mental strength and the constant battle with our own thoughts

(30:12) How Rajeev deals with negativity during a tennis match

(33:23) Rajeev's greatest source of pressure

(34:17) Playing with Venus Williams

(39:18) The relationships between players on tour

(40:56) Life as a public figure

(42:13) Highest and lowest moments in Rajeev's career

(43:57) How Rajeev has managed to stay on top of his game at the age of 39 - a discussion on longevity 

(47:14) Rajeev's solution to get American tennis back on top

(49:18) The art of sacrifice and is it required?

(51:03) Life lessons from tennis

(51:58) Rajeev's plans after tennis and the Rajeev Ram Foundation

(53:31) Rajeev's routine during the tennis offseason

(54:46) Rajeev's life advice

Connect with Rajeev:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/RajeevRam

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rajeevram318/

Rajeev Ram Foundation: https://rajeevramfoundation.org/

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Rajeev Ram ON Being #1 In The World, Life On The ATP Tour & Playing With Venus Williams Nik Atanackovic 00:58:08 In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with the former #1 doubles tennis player in the world: Rajeev Ram. Rajeev's resume is impressive: 6 time major champion, 3 straight US Open titles, and doubles silver with Venus Williams at the 2016 Summer Olympics. But even more impressive was the advice he shared on how to live a happier and more fulfilled life. The conversation spans multiple topics including: how to maximize longevity, life lessons from tennis, and an exclusive Venus Williams story. Please Enjoy! In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with the former #1 doubles tennis player in the world: Rajeev Ram. Rajeev's resume is impressive: 6 time major champion, 3 straight US Open titles, and doubles silver with Venus Williams at the 2016 Summer Olympics. But even more impressive was the advice he shared on how to live a happier and more fulfilled life. The conversation spans multiple topics including: how to maximize longevity, life lessons from tennis, and an exclusive Venus Williams story. Please Enjoy! rajeev ram, the victory degree, venus williams, tennis, victory degree, nik atanackovic false full 6 14850879-d733-427e-b689-78cb54ce7390 Jovan Buha ON Life As A Los Angeles Lakers Reporter, Trying Out For the G-League & The Future of Sports Media In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Los Angeles Lakers reporter, Jovan Buha. Jovan graduated from USC in 2014, worked various jobs within ESPN, and then became a NBA reporter for the LA Clippers in 2018. A short 2 years later, Jovan found himself as a reporter for the LA Lakers. Through this role, he's had the opportunity to meet celebrities such as Dan Bilzerian & Migos and has been a guest on popular sports podcasts such as Bill Simmons & Chris Broussard.  

Please enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS:

(0:00) Jovan's background and introduction 

(1:47) What has been Jovan's most unbelievable experience

(3:41) Jovan's relationship with sports growing up

(6:28) Highschool basketball star Jovan Buha

(8:53) Jovan details his experience at ESPN

(12:56) The do's and don'ts of NBA reporting

(17:28) The fine art of the post game interview

(22:30) Jovan describes the responsibilities of a NBA reporter

(26:17) Is Jovan friends with any of the Lakers players?

(30:28) Jovan's favorite moment covering the Lakers & Kobe's last game

(34:42) Being on the court for LeBron's record breaking night

(37:07) Are NBA reporters allowed to be fans of the teams they cover

(41:04) Trying out for the G-League

(47:34) The future of sports media & player podcasts 

(52:34) What has Jovan learned from covering some of the highest performing athletes in the world?

(57:09) Jovan's life advice 

Connect with Jovan:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jovanbuha

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jovanbuha/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jovanbuha

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Wed, 3 Jan 2024 02:30:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/the-life-of-a-los-angeles-lakers-reporter-jovan-buha-ktkQqc1X In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Los Angeles Lakers reporter, Jovan Buha. Jovan graduated from USC in 2014, worked various jobs within ESPN, and then became a NBA reporter for the LA Clippers in 2018. A short 2 years later, Jovan found himself as a reporter for the LA Lakers. Through this role, he's had the opportunity to meet celebrities such as Dan Bilzerian & Migos and has been a guest on popular sports podcasts such as Bill Simmons & Chris Broussard.  

Please enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS:

(0:00) Jovan's background and introduction 

(1:47) What has been Jovan's most unbelievable experience

(3:41) Jovan's relationship with sports growing up

(6:28) Highschool basketball star Jovan Buha

(8:53) Jovan details his experience at ESPN

(12:56) The do's and don'ts of NBA reporting

(17:28) The fine art of the post game interview

(22:30) Jovan describes the responsibilities of a NBA reporter

(26:17) Is Jovan friends with any of the Lakers players?

(30:28) Jovan's favorite moment covering the Lakers & Kobe's last game

(34:42) Being on the court for LeBron's record breaking night

(37:07) Are NBA reporters allowed to be fans of the teams they cover

(41:04) Trying out for the G-League

(47:34) The future of sports media & player podcasts 

(52:34) What has Jovan learned from covering some of the highest performing athletes in the world?

(57:09) Jovan's life advice 

Connect with Jovan:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/jovanbuha

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/jovanbuha/

TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@jovanbuha

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Jovan Buha ON Life As A Los Angeles Lakers Reporter, Trying Out For the G-League & The Future of Sports Media Nik Atanackovic 01:00:24 In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Los Angeles Lakers reporter, Jovan Buha. Jovan graduated from USC in 2014, worked various jobs within ESPN, and then became a NBA reporter for the LA Clippers in 2018. A short 2 years later, Jovan found himself as a reporter for the LA Lakers. Through this role, he's had the opportunity to meet celebrities such as Dan Bilzerian & Migos and has been a guest on popular sports podcasts such as Bill Simmons & Chris Broussard. In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with Los Angeles Lakers reporter, Jovan Buha. Jovan graduated from USC in 2014, worked various jobs within ESPN, and then became a NBA reporter for the LA Clippers in 2018. A short 2 years later, Jovan found himself as a reporter for the LA Lakers. Through this role, he's had the opportunity to meet celebrities such as Dan Bilzerian & Migos and has been a guest on popular sports podcasts such as Bill Simmons & Chris Broussard. the victory degree, victory degree, jovan buha, nik atanackovic, lakers false full 5 3300fd56-4846-4d00-b650-e3590d657b80 Ben Fawkes ON The Psychology of Sports Betting, Referee Scandals & How To Draft QBs In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with NFL gambling industry expert, Ben Fawkes. Ben has covered the world of sports betting since 2010, working for companies like ESPN & VSiN. Additionally, he's planned and executed content for some of sports media's biggest names including: Chris Berman, Mel Kiper, Todd McShay, Matthew Berry & Adam Schefter. 

"Anyone who has followed the sports betting industry over the past several years is well aware of Ben and his great work. He was one of the architects behind ESPN’s sports betting coverage and continues to be one of the most respected and prolific voices in sports betting."

Please enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS:

(0:00) Ben's background and introduction 

(5:16) How did Ben get into sports betting?

(9:34) Has sports betting helped or hindered the final NFL product?

(12:30) Is referee bias real & the Adam Silver story

(21:23) How are betting lines set?

(25:24) What does it mean to be a "professional sports bettor?"

(30:20) Why do most people such at betting, the psychology of sports betting

(37:10) What is points betting?

(39:23) What is the future of sports betting?

(45:29) Ben's experience working with Todd McShay & Mel Kiper

(51:56) Why is it so hard to draft franchise quarterbacks?

(57:56) Ben's analysis of all 32 NFL starting QBs

(1:02:41) Ben's life advice for the next guest 

Connect with Ben:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BFawkes22

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bfawkes22/

Ben's USA Today Content: https://ftw.usatoday.com/author/bfawkes22

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

Ben's Articles Referenced:

Ranking all 32 QBs: https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-quarterbacks-against-the-spread-worth-ranked-backups

Ranking NBA Players Against the Spread: https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nba-most-valuable-players-against-the-spread

]]> Mon, 18 Dec 2023 21:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/inside-the-world-of-sports-betting-ben-fawkes-u8FeVLLw In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with NFL gambling industry expert, Ben Fawkes. Ben has covered the world of sports betting since 2010, working for companies like ESPN & VSiN. Additionally, he's planned and executed content for some of sports media's biggest names including: Chris Berman, Mel Kiper, Todd McShay, Matthew Berry & Adam Schefter. 

"Anyone who has followed the sports betting industry over the past several years is well aware of Ben and his great work. He was one of the architects behind ESPN’s sports betting coverage and continues to be one of the most respected and prolific voices in sports betting."

Please enjoy!

TIMESTAMPS:

(0:00) Ben's background and introduction 

(5:16) How did Ben get into sports betting?

(9:34) Has sports betting helped or hindered the final NFL product?

(12:30) Is referee bias real & the Adam Silver story

(21:23) How are betting lines set?

(25:24) What does it mean to be a "professional sports bettor?"

(30:20) Why do most people such at betting, the psychology of sports betting

(37:10) What is points betting?

(39:23) What is the future of sports betting?

(45:29) Ben's experience working with Todd McShay & Mel Kiper

(51:56) Why is it so hard to draft franchise quarterbacks?

(57:56) Ben's analysis of all 32 NFL starting QBs

(1:02:41) Ben's life advice for the next guest 

Connect with Ben:

Twitter: https://twitter.com/BFawkes22

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/bfawkes22/

Ben's USA Today Content: https://ftw.usatoday.com/author/bfawkes22

Connect with Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

Ben's Articles Referenced:

Ranking all 32 QBs: https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nfl-quarterbacks-against-the-spread-worth-ranked-backups

Ranking NBA Players Against the Spread: https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/nba-most-valuable-players-against-the-spread

]]> Ben Fawkes ON The Psychology of Sports Betting, Referee Scandals & How To Draft QBs Nik Atanackovic 01:06:03 In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with NFL gambling industry expert, Ben Fawkes. Ben has covered the world of sports betting since 2010, working for companies like ESPN & VSiN. Additionally, he's planned and executed content for some of sports media's biggest stars including: Chris Berman, Mel Kiper, Todd McShay, Matthew Berry & Adam Schefter. "Anyone who has followed the sports betting industry over the past several years is well aware of Ben and his great work. He was one of the architects behind ESPN’s sports betting coverage and continues to be one of the most respected and prolific voices in sports betting." Please enjoy! In the latest episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with NFL gambling industry expert, Ben Fawkes. Ben has covered the world of sports betting since 2010, working for companies like ESPN & VSiN. Additionally, he's planned and executed content for some of sports media's biggest stars including: Chris Berman, Mel Kiper, Todd McShay, Matthew Berry & Adam Schefter. "Anyone who has followed the sports betting industry over the past several years is well aware of Ben and his great work. He was one of the architects behind ESPN’s sports betting coverage and continues to be one of the most respected and prolific voices in sports betting." Please enjoy! nfl, victory degree, nik atanackovic, gambling, betting, nik, ben fawkes false full 4 d26f5abe-f0ba-4c5c-8a9f-4929930c77dc Aaron Schatz ON NFL Analytics, The Evolution of Football & Standing Out in Sports Media In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with the leading voice in NFL analytics - Aaron Schatz.

Aaron graduated from Brown University with a degree in Economics in 1992. From there, Aaron worked various jobs, including stints at a couple of radio stations, until ultimately starting FootballOutsiders.com in July 2003. He also found himself as an NFL Analyst at ESPN.com and is credited for inventing numerous football analytics such as DVOA and DYAR over the course of his 20+ years in the industry. 

TIMESTAMPS:

(0:10) Aaron's background, working in radio, and his relationship with sports

(4:09) The early days of football analytics

(5:03) Why was Football Outsiders started? Why get into analytics?

(6:07) What was Aaron's early competitive advantage?

(7:57) Aaron reflects on his journey and all the things that had to go right

(10:14) Best advice for people looking to get into NFL analytics

(10:53) What is the big data bowl?

(11:52) What is the role of analytics in sports?

(13:17) How are 4th down analytics computed?

(16:22) Going for it on 4th down and winning games, correlated?

(17:22) How are the Steelers good?

(18:48) How has analytics changed the game?

(20:42) What is DVOA?

(23:23) How do you balance analytics with the eye test?

(25:30) Has the game of football become less predictable?

(27:39) What Aaron bases his pre-season Super Bowl predictions off of

(29:30) What's wrong with the Patriots?

(33:01) Brady vs Belichick, who was more important for the Patriots dynasty?

(33:47) What is being on the MVP panel like? What do you consider when voting for MVP?

(37:20) Is Mahomes the most talented QB of all time?

(41:36) How do you get selected to be on the MVP panel?

(44:23) Special teams analytics talk

(46:03) Lucky vs. predictive plays

(46:39) Aaron's prediction for the future of analytics

(48:33) How would Aaron revive baseball?

(52:11) Aaron's hottest take on the NFL season thus far

(53:50) Aaron's Super Bowl prediction

(54:23) Frameworks that have helped fuel Aaron's success

(56:43) Aaron's advice for the next guest

Follow Aaron: 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ASchatzNFL

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aschatznfl/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@aschatznfl

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-schatz-74b644/

FTN Fantasy: https://www.ftnfantasy.com/dvoa

Follow Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Sat, 2 Dec 2023 21:30:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/nfl-analytics-the-evolution-of-football-and-ice-cold-takes-aaron-schatz-qg6LyTVE In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with the leading voice in NFL analytics - Aaron Schatz.

Aaron graduated from Brown University with a degree in Economics in 1992. From there, Aaron worked various jobs, including stints at a couple of radio stations, until ultimately starting FootballOutsiders.com in July 2003. He also found himself as an NFL Analyst at ESPN.com and is credited for inventing numerous football analytics such as DVOA and DYAR over the course of his 20+ years in the industry. 

TIMESTAMPS:

(0:10) Aaron's background, working in radio, and his relationship with sports

(4:09) The early days of football analytics

(5:03) Why was Football Outsiders started? Why get into analytics?

(6:07) What was Aaron's early competitive advantage?

(7:57) Aaron reflects on his journey and all the things that had to go right

(10:14) Best advice for people looking to get into NFL analytics

(10:53) What is the big data bowl?

(11:52) What is the role of analytics in sports?

(13:17) How are 4th down analytics computed?

(16:22) Going for it on 4th down and winning games, correlated?

(17:22) How are the Steelers good?

(18:48) How has analytics changed the game?

(20:42) What is DVOA?

(23:23) How do you balance analytics with the eye test?

(25:30) Has the game of football become less predictable?

(27:39) What Aaron bases his pre-season Super Bowl predictions off of

(29:30) What's wrong with the Patriots?

(33:01) Brady vs Belichick, who was more important for the Patriots dynasty?

(33:47) What is being on the MVP panel like? What do you consider when voting for MVP?

(37:20) Is Mahomes the most talented QB of all time?

(41:36) How do you get selected to be on the MVP panel?

(44:23) Special teams analytics talk

(46:03) Lucky vs. predictive plays

(46:39) Aaron's prediction for the future of analytics

(48:33) How would Aaron revive baseball?

(52:11) Aaron's hottest take on the NFL season thus far

(53:50) Aaron's Super Bowl prediction

(54:23) Frameworks that have helped fuel Aaron's success

(56:43) Aaron's advice for the next guest

Follow Aaron: 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/ASchatzNFL

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/aschatznfl/

Threads: https://www.threads.net/@aschatznfl

LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/aaron-schatz-74b644/

FTN Fantasy: https://www.ftnfantasy.com/dvoa

Follow Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatanackovic/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Aaron Schatz ON NFL Analytics, The Evolution of Football & Standing Out in Sports Media Nik Atanackovic 01:00:18 In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with the leading voice in NFL analytics - Aaron Schatz. Aaron graduated from Brown University with a degree in Economics in 1992. From there, Aaron worked various jobs, including stints at a couple of radio stations, until ultimately starting FootballOutsiders.com in July 2003. He also found himself as an NFL Analyst at ESPN.com and is credited for inventing numerous football analytics such as DVOA and DYAR over the course of his 20+ years in the industry. In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with the leading voice in NFL analytics - Aaron Schatz. Aaron graduated from Brown University with a degree in Economics in 1992. From there, Aaron worked various jobs, including stints at a couple of radio stations, until ultimately starting FootballOutsiders.com in July 2003. He also found himself as an NFL Analyst at ESPN.com and is credited for inventing numerous football analytics such as DVOA and DYAR over the course of his 20+ years in the industry. aaron schatz, nfl, victory degree, analytics false full 3 0e621f1b-031c-41f1-ae60-cdb4c03678ec Tray Edwards ON Life in a NBA Entourage, Drake's Pool Party & LeBron Icing his Knees in the Club? In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with podcaster, creator, & NBA enthusiast Tray Edwards. 

Tray's journey starts in Compton, California and leads him to many interesting stops along the way. Everything from working at UPS, playing college basketball at Waldorf University, being a part of an NBA entourage, going to Drake's pool party, and covering the NBA for The Athletic, Tray has a wealth of experiences and stories worth sharing. 

TIMESTAMPS: 

0:00 Intro & Tray's life in bullet points 

1:10 Growing up in Compton & childhood 

6:40 Importance of youth sports

9:01 Drake's pool party 

11:04 Hanging out with athletes & celebrities 

13:28 Life as a school teacher 

16:25 Why athletes struggle post retirement 

19:01 Life in a NBA entourage 

21:48 How do athletes deal with fame? 

26:08 Creating a viral Twitter account during the NBA bubble 

29:27 Was the NBA bubble a success? 

30:55 LeBron icing his knees in the club & NBA players hanging out after games 

32:53 Where is LeBron in Tray's GOAT rankings? 

34:26 Experience as a NBA journalist and importance of relationships with players 

38:41 Most surprising thing about athletes 

40:49 Success in the NBA: mostly genetic or result of hard work? 

44:54 Tray's frameworks for success 

48:32 What legacy does Tray want to leave? 

50:25 Tray's advice for the next guest 

Connect with Tray: 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Travonne 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travonneedwards/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tray-edwards-3882268a/ 

Count The Dings Podcast Network: https://linktr.ee/countthedings 

Follow Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatnite97/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Tue, 21 Nov 2023 23:00:00 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/life-in-a-nba-entourage-drakes-pool-party-lebron-icing-his-knees-in-the-club-tray-edwards-rRUmUlX3 In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with podcaster, creator, & NBA enthusiast Tray Edwards. 

Tray's journey starts in Compton, California and leads him to many interesting stops along the way. Everything from working at UPS, playing college basketball at Waldorf University, being a part of an NBA entourage, going to Drake's pool party, and covering the NBA for The Athletic, Tray has a wealth of experiences and stories worth sharing. 

TIMESTAMPS: 

0:00 Intro & Tray's life in bullet points 

1:10 Growing up in Compton & childhood 

6:40 Importance of youth sports

9:01 Drake's pool party 

11:04 Hanging out with athletes & celebrities 

13:28 Life as a school teacher 

16:25 Why athletes struggle post retirement 

19:01 Life in a NBA entourage 

21:48 How do athletes deal with fame? 

26:08 Creating a viral Twitter account during the NBA bubble 

29:27 Was the NBA bubble a success? 

30:55 LeBron icing his knees in the club & NBA players hanging out after games 

32:53 Where is LeBron in Tray's GOAT rankings? 

34:26 Experience as a NBA journalist and importance of relationships with players 

38:41 Most surprising thing about athletes 

40:49 Success in the NBA: mostly genetic or result of hard work? 

44:54 Tray's frameworks for success 

48:32 What legacy does Tray want to leave? 

50:25 Tray's advice for the next guest 

Connect with Tray: 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Travonne 

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/travonneedwards/ 

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tray-edwards-3882268a/ 

Count The Dings Podcast Network: https://linktr.ee/countthedings 

Follow Nik:

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/nikatnite97/ 

Twitter: https://twitter.com/Nik_Atanackovic

]]> Tray Edwards ON Life in a NBA Entourage, Drake's Pool Party & LeBron Icing his Knees in the Club? Nik Atanackovic 00:54:01 In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with podcaster, creator, & NBA enthusiast Tray Edwards. Tray's journey starts in Compton, California and leads him to many interesting stops along the way. Everything from working at UPS, playing college basketball at Waldorf University, being a part of an NBA entourage, going to Drake's pool party, and covering the NBA for The Athletic, Tray has a wealth of experiences and stories worth sharing. In this episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with podcaster, creator, & NBA enthusiast Tray Edwards. Tray's journey starts in Compton, California and leads him to many interesting stops along the way. Everything from working at UPS, playing college basketball at Waldorf University, being a part of an NBA entourage, going to Drake's pool party, and covering the NBA for The Athletic, Tray has a wealth of experiences and stories worth sharing. nba, the victory degree, victory degree, nik atanackovic, tray edwards, lebron false full 2 cebd50e0-6e5b-4aca-9e05-cee39a379441 Success at the Highest Level: The Lives of MJ & Kobe | Roland Lazenby In the first episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with biographer and NBA savant, Roland Lazenby. 

Roland has written more than 60 nonfiction books and was a sports journalist for decades covering teams such as the 95-96 Bulls and early 2000s Lakers. Some of his most notable work includes biographies written about MJ ("Michael Jordan: The Life"), Kobe ("Showboat: The Life of Kobe Bryant"), Jerry West ("The Life and Legend of a Basketball Icon"), & his newest title "Magic: The Life of Earvin "Magic" Johnson."

In this conversation, Roland and Nik discuss topics such as:

  • The long road to success in sports journalism
  • Why the Phoenix Suns wanted to ruin the triangle offense
  • What made MJ & Kobe different?
  • How much work goes into writing a good sports biography?
  • Difference between today's players and players from the 90s & early 2000s
  • Most important takeaways from studying the lives of Kobe & MJ

Follow Roland:

Twitter

Instagram

Watch the episode on YouTube:

https://youtu.be/ZVN5g6CA2vg

Follow me:

Instagram

Twitter

]]> Wed, 8 Nov 2023 19:28:05 +0000 nik@thevictorydegree.com (Nik Atanackovic) https://thevictorydegree.simplecast.com/episodes/success-at-the-highest-level-the-lives-of-mj-kobe-roland-lazenby-RCho85lv In the first episode of The Victory Degree, Nik sits down with biographer and NBA savant, Roland Lazenby. 

Roland has written more than 60 nonfiction books and was a sports journalist for decades covering teams such as the 95-96 Bulls and early 2000s Lakers. Some of his most notable work includes biographies written about MJ ("Michael Jordan: The Life"), Kobe ("Showboat: The Life of Kobe Bryant"), Jerry West ("The Life and Legend of a Basketball Icon"), & his newest title "Magic: The Life of Earvin "Magic" Johnson."

In this conversation, Roland and Nik discuss topics such as:

  • The long road to success in sports journalism
  • Why the Phoenix Suns wanted to ruin the triangle offense
  • What made MJ & Kobe different?
  • How much work goes into writing a good sports biography?
  • Difference between today's players and players from the 90s & early 2000s
  • Most important takeaways from studying the lives of Kobe & MJ

Follow Roland:

Twitter

Instagram

Watch the episode on YouTube:

https://youtu.be/ZVN5g6CA2vg

Follow me:

Instagram

Twitter

]]> Success at the Highest Level: The Lives of MJ & Kobe | Roland Lazenby Nik Atanackovic 01:00:44 Roland Lazenby joins the show to discuss his personal journey of how he went from hating school to writing biographies on MJ, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson and more. Roland Lazenby joins the show to discuss his personal journey of how he went from hating school to writing biographies on MJ, Kobe Bryant, Magic Johnson and more. sports, mj, victory degree, nik atanackovic, kobe, michael jordan, roland lazenby, biography false full 1