In this episode, Connor Kenny, a 23-year-old real estate investor with a $7 million portfolio, shares his journey of dropping out of college, using creative financing strategies, and building a thriving business. His insights challenge conventional wisdom and inspire young entrepreneurs to pursue their passions with confidence.

Main Topics:

Connor's unconventional journey: dropping out of college at 19 to pursue real estate

-Creative financing: seller financing explained

-The importance of relationships and in-person networking in real estate

-Balancing social media use: content creation vs. doom scrolling

-Lessons from managing challenging properties and early setbacks

-Building confidence through mentorship and peer influence

-The power of discipline and discernment in choosing friends and opportunities

-The significance of physical activity and mental resilience in high performance

Timestamps:

00:00 - Intro: Storytelling meets unsolicited advice with Connor Kenny

00:25 - Connor's background: young real estate investor with a $7M portfolio

01:03 - Family background: entrepreneurial parents and siblings

01:44 - Dropping out of college: key motivations and turning points

02:41 - The moment Connor decided to leave college for real estate

03:14 - The value of internships and early experience over college degree

04:06 - Challenges and benefits of taking unconventional routes

05:15 - Views on internships, paid vs. unpaid, and student motivation

06:28 - Perspective on social media: realism and fostering connections

07:21 - Breaking misconceptions about career success and income expectations

08:22 - The importance of active outreach: cold calls, networking, and cold emails

09:35 - Overcoming fear of rejection and external voices

10:17 - Sitting in the front row to stand out at conferences and events

11:05 - The impact of social media on mindset and expectations

12:11 - Strategies for controlling social media usage and impostor syndrome

13:16 - Authenticity and content creation: let social media work for you

14:01 - Tools and habits for time management on social media

16:11 - Connor’s first property: a duplex bought at age 19 with seller financing

17:01 - Understanding seller financing: how it works and benefits

19:00 - The process of negotiating and funding the property purchase

20:26 - Legal documentation: promissory notes and deed of trust

21:06 - The flexibility of seller financing and interest rate negotiations

22:10 - How Connor built trust and credibility with sellers

23:14 - The importance of prospecting: cold calling and rejection resilience

24:00 - Building relationships: in-person meetings vs. digital outreach

25:01 - The power of face-to-face interaction in deal-making

26:15 - Maintaining long-term relationships in real estate

27:01 - The craziest houses Connor has seen and lessons learned

28:00 - A challenging experience with a neglected property

31:55 - The value of tackling difficult properties early

32:16 - Reality check: flipping shows vs. actual renovation work

33:42 - Unrealistic expectations from media and young investors

34:38 - Building your authentic peer circle and mentorship

36:41 - Shedding unwanted friendships and focusing on growth

38:11 - Balancing fun, health, and high-performance routines

41:28 - Training for marathons and Ironmans: discipline beyond business

44:40 - Lessons on being misunderstood and persistent in pursuit of success

47:44 - Final advice: embrace risk, follow your passion, and have no fear

50:08 - Connor’s social media and contact details

Resources & Links:

Connor Kenny Website: https://connorkenny.com/

Connor Kenny on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/connorkenny

Connor Kenny on Instagram: https://instagram.com/connorkenny

Additional Notes:

This episode showcases a remarkable example of youthful entrepreneurship, emphasizing the importance of networking, resilience, and creative financing strategies. Connor’s honesty and transparency provide actionable insights for anyone looking to start or accelerate their real estate journey or build confidence in non-traditional paths.

🔥 Buckle up for a story packed with resilience, leadership, and lessons that can transform your mindset. Kennedy Muff shares her powerful journey from college volleyball star battling injuries to a thriving sales professional and inspirational leader.In this episode:

• Kennedy’s athletic journey—from Wisconsin roots to playing in the NCAA's biggest stadiums
• Overcoming injuries that threatened her career and how she turned setbacks into comebacks
• The role of culture, trust, and sacrifice in sports and life
• How networking and serendipity paved her path to success
• The importance of knowing your worth and surrounding yourself with supportive people

Timestamps:

00:00 - Unlocking resilience: Kennedy’s volleyball narrative from knee injuries to record-breaking games

02:00 - Midwest beginnings and the decisive move south for college recruitment

05:00 - Life lessons learned from tearing her ACL and how that shaped her leadership

08:00 - The power of serendipity: Connecting the dots in unexpected ways

11:30 - Why story-telling unlocks growth and inspires others

14:00 - Leading from the bench: Infusing culture through sacrifice and service

17:00 - The physical and mental journey post-injury—mindset, purpose, and perseverance

20:00 - Transitioning into sales: How athletic skills transfer to business success

23:00 - Building trust and leadership outside the game—small acts that make a big difference

27:00 - Embracing hard things: Pilates, yoga, and the mindset of doing what’s hard for health and happiness

30:00 - Navigating difficult conversations: Trust, honesty, and growth

33:00 - Building genuine relationships—storming, norming, and performing as a team

36:00 - Starting fresh in the professional world—drowning, learning, and rising again

39:00 - The power of passion and purpose in sales and connection

44:00 - The magic of NIL deals and leveraging stories for opportunities

50:00 - The importance of discernment—protecting your energy and your worth

55:00 - The journey of self-worth—believing in yourself beyond what others think

58:00 - Practical advice for young athletes and women of all ages—knowing your worth and creating a supportive circleResources & Links:

• Kennedy Muff on LinkedIn
• Kennedy Muff on Instagram
• Title IX and Women in Sports
• Serendipity Movie

Connect with Kennedy:

• LinkedIn
• Instagram

This episode is a call to action—embrace adversity, trust your journey, and always keep your worth front and center. Whether you’re a student, athlete, or a seasoned professional, Kennedy’s story reminds us that within us all lies the power to turn setbacks into setups for greatness. Your best is yet to come—step boldly into it!

Most young creatives are intimidated by the idea of asking for what they’re worth — Riley’s bold move to state her rate openly changed everything. She reveals how saying "this is my rate" might just be the game-changer for your confidence, your work, and your income.Imagine the courage it takes to speak up in a room full of doubt and insecurity—then realizing your voice actually empowers others. Riley shares her journey from nervousness to unapologetic professionalism, proving that even when you feel unready, taking that leap can skyrocket your self-respect and client respect alike.You’ll discover:

• Why saying your rate out loud is a boundary and a gateway to better clients
• How to beat the fear that keeps freelancers silent about their worth
• The underestimated power of doing hard things—even when it’s cringe-worthy
• Why freelance success isn’t about knowing everything — it’s about showing up, saying "yes," and trusting your talent

The stakes? Without this confidence, you might stay invisible or undervalued—missing out on opportunities that could define your future. But when you learn to stand firm and communicate your worth, you unlock more projects, more pay, and a stronger identity as a creator.This episode is a must-listen if you're ready to break free from imposter syndrome, elevate your freelancing game, and own your space in the creative world. Don't let fear hold you back—bold moves make bold artists. Hit play now and start rewriting your story.Guest Credibility: Riley is a passionate freelance graphic designer and artist, known for her authentic approach and inspiring honesty about taking risks and valuing her work.Why this works: This description opens with a powerful, relatable story of courage, instantly grabbing attention. It clearly outlines specific insights Riley shares, emphasizing transformation and immediate value for freelancers or those hesitant to claim their worth — all wrapped in an energetic and authentic tone to inspire action.

Most teams overlook the tiny, seemingly insignificant habits that make or break their championship dreams. Elise reveals how small, consistent efforts—like showing up on time, stretching after practice, and a culture rooted in selflessness—culminate in historic wins and unbreakable team bonds.This episode is a wake-up call for athletes, coaches, and leaders who are tired of the "big fixes" and want to understand the real secret to sustained success. You’ll discover how a culture of small intentional actions builds resilience, trust, and ultimately, victory—whether in sports or life. Elise shares her journey from heartbreak to victory, illustrating how leadership isn’t about grand gestures but about relentless commitment to the tiny details that set winners apart.

We break down:

• The power of a growth-oriented mindset and patience
• How small daily habits shape championship teams
• The role of humility and authenticity in leadership
• Why culture is the ultimate game-changer
• The importance of trusting the process, especially when no one is watching

If you’re tired of surface-level advice and crave proven strategies rooted in emotion, dedication, and humble leadership, this episode is your blueprint. Perfect for athletes, students, and anyone ready to turn the little things into big wins.Elise is a college track star turned leader, whose story of victory, vulnerability, and grit will inspire you to focus not only on the big moments but also on the tiny, powerful habits that make all the difference.This is more than a sports episode — it’s a life lesson on how to lead with integrity and build a legacy that lasts long after the final whistle. Hit play and start transforming your approach today!

Most college students and young professionals are terrified of cold outreach, but Dylan Pinkins — a finance whiz and startup founder — reveals how curiosity and persistence can demolish rejection.

His story of starting from Chick-fil-A to building relationships with investors shows that the key to success isn’t waiting for opportunity; it’s creating it through fearless connection and relentless effort.You'll discover how to reframe rejection as a stepping stone, why understanding life's unpredictability is your secret weapon, and how building genuine relationships accelerates even in a down market.

Dylan shares unfiltered truths about overcoming fear, not just in networking but in navigating the tumultuous job market post-graduation, especially as layoffs sweep across industries. His insights on leveraging technology like AI, the importance of intentionality, and how to cultivate resilience make this episode a must-listen for anyone feeling overwhelmed or stuck.

This isn’t just about career advice—it's a call to action. If you’re tired of feeling powerless in your journey, Dylan’s bold strategies will inspire you to own your story, embrace vulnerability, and take decisive action. Perfect for recent grads, young entrepreneurs, and anyone hungry to break through barriers with authenticity and grit.And Dylan? He’s a visionary building a personal network assistant called Timing—designed to help you manage relationships and unlock opportunities before they slip away.

His mission? To help you see that success is a relationship game, and the best players are those unafraid to reach out first.Are you ready to ditch the fear, challenge the status quo, and unlock your full potential? Hit play—your breakthrough starts here.

A Conversation with a Gen Z Trailblazer: Dive into the raw, real, and inspiring story of a young woman redefining success, connection, and self-discovery in a rapidly changing world. This episode is a call to young dreamers everywhere — to be bold, authentic, and unapologetically you. In this episode:

• How a triple major is reshaping the narrative around what it means to stand out
• The power of switching off social media and focusing on real-world connections
• Why authenticity is your most valuable currency in networking
• The importance of embracing awkward moments and rejection as growth
• Practical tips for making friends, exploring passions, and living fearlessly
• The impact of stepping outside of the 'American bubble' and learning from creative, cultural experiences
• Real talk on mental health, loneliness, and the importance of maintaining your own identity
• Navigating social pressures around appearance, branding, and external validation
• Why having multiple streams of interest and income is more than a trend — it’s a safeguard for your sanity
• A powerful reminder: “Do it scared, do it happy, do it for you”

Timestamps: 00:00 - The power of authenticity: Why being yourself is your greatest strength

02:04 - Switching off Instagram and TikTok to focus on building meaningful connections

03:32 - How to network on LinkedIn without feeling awkward

04:38 - Finding common ground in conversations — a secret to lasting connections

06:01 - The art of saying no to people and situations misaligned with your goals

08:04 - Celebrating the uniqueness of being a triple major — intersectionality and pride

11:12 - Rediscovering fun and identity beyond the grind of college

12:58 - Managing time, burnout, and the importance of mental health

14:39 - The beauty of letting go: Why not all relationships are meant to last

16:04 - Preparing for life after college: Embracing change and leaving the bubble

18:37 - The reality of adult life and how to navigate it with confidence

20:54 - Exploring passions: What would you do if money was no object?

23:38 - The importance of cybersecurity and the evolving tech landscape

25:56 - Balancing appearance, style, and authenticity in a world obsessed with perfection

27:21 - The entrepreneurial spirit: Family influence and future plans

28:27 - How to build your social capital on campus with confidence

34:16 - Recognizing and overcoming limiting beliefs passed down from elders

35:48 - Overconnection, social media dependency, and the loneliness epidemic

40:25 - Practical advice for making friends in college and beyond

43:46 - The reality of awkward moments and why they’re part of growth

44:50 - The influences shaping Gen Z perceptions of success and identity

50:29 - The importance of chasing your passions over societal expectations

52:20 - Wisdom for adults: Keep your curiosity alive and help the next gen thrive

What does it really take to balance Division I softball, college life, leadership, friendships, and your own mental health?

In this episode, Britt sits down with Shelby Dyer, a junior at Rider University and D1 softball player, to talk about the real side of being a young athlete today.

Shelby opens up about:

• The pressure to always be involved and “doing something”

• Managing stress without being told it’s okay to take a break

• The mental toughness required in a sport that’s literally a game of failure

• Adapting to new coaching styles and evolving expectations

• The impact of social media on young athletes

• Why perspective changes everything

• Seizing opportunities while you’re young

They dive into the balancing act of staying active, staying curious, and staying grounded — especially in a culture that rewards constant motion.

Shelby reflects on how her upbringing shaped her drive, how team dynamics impact performance, and why leadership at a young age looks different than people think.

This conversation is about sports — but it’s also about growth, identity, resilience, and learning how to zoom out when things feel overwhelming.

If you’re a student-athlete, coach, parent, or young adult trying to figure it out, this episode will resonate.

Because at the end of the day?

It’s a game of failure.

Seize every moment.

And it’s all about perspective.

—

CHAPTERS

00:00 A New Perspective

02:12 Shelby’s Multifaceted College Life

05:53 The Drive to Stay Active

09:46 Overstimulation & Finding Balance

11:53 Why Diverse Interests Matter

15:53 Curiosity as a Leadership Skill

18:01 The Power of Relationships

20:50 Softball & Life Lessons

22:33 Age & Maturity in College Sports

25:10 The Reality of College Softball

28:55 Growth Through Adaptation

31:14 The Mental Game

33:50 Leadership & Team Dynamics

41:17 Navigating Athletic Struggles

42:57 Building Mental Resilience

45:02 Social Media & Athlete Pressure

46:53 Embracing Uncertainty

49:05 Skills That Transfer Beyond Sports

53:45 Life After Athletics

56:09 Advice for Young Adults

57:55 The Power of Perspective

What does it actually feel like to leave your home country, move to the U.S., play college basketball… and then enter the transfer portal?

Yeah. We went there.

In this episode, Filippa Gula opens up about life as an international student-athlete — the pressure, the emotional weight of transferring schools, and the hard conversations that come with chasing growth.

We talk about:

• Moving across the world for basketball

• The emotional toll of the transfer portal

• Having uncomfortable conversations with coaches

• Team dynamics and how they impact performance

• Gen Z, social media, and outside expectations

• Balancing academics and athletics

• Perfectionism, pressure, and confidence

• Learning that sometimes… nobody cares as much as you think

This conversation is real, reflective, and honest about what it takes to grow when everything feels uncertain.

If you’re a student-athlete, a coach, a parent, or someone navigating high expectations — this one will resonate.

Growth isn’t glamorous.

It’s uncomfortable.

And sometimes, you have to do it again.

In this episode of the Thanks But No One Asked You podcast, host Britt Hunter engages in a lively conversation with Dr. Ronald Reeves, exploring a range of topics from fraternity rankings to the impact of scandals in sports organizations. Dr. Reeves shares his personal experiences and insights on the importance of mentorship, the value of a PhD, and the realities of working in sports. The discussion also touches on the challenges faced by coaches and their families, as well as the need for young people to speak up about wrongdoings. With a mix of humor and candor, this episode provides valuable advice for aspiring student athletes and professionals in the sports industry.

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Dr. Ronald Reeves

02:59 Fraternity Rankings and Personal Experiences

05:49 Reflections on Michigan Scandal

08:26 Dr. Reeves' Background and Career Path

11:28 Navigating Conversations on Religion

14:27 Realizations of Aging and Physical Limitations

17:25 The Value of a PhD

20:27 The Importance of School Reputation

23:19 Insights on Working in Sports

29:23 Advice for Student Athletes

34:18 The Impact of Scandals on Organizations

39:19 Empowering the Younger Generation

43:05 Challenges for Coaches and Their Families

50:03 This or That: Unsolicited Advice Segment

Summary

In this episode of the Thanks But No One Asked You podcast, host Britt Hunter engages with author Andrew Maraniss, exploring themes of sports, storytelling, and social justice. They discuss Andrew's literary influences, the impact of his father's Pulitzer Prize-winning career, and the importance of empathy in writing. The conversation delves into Andrew's work on Perry Wallace, the first black basketball player in the SEC, highlighting the challenges of pioneering in sports and the significance of understanding different perspectives. They also touch on parenting strategies for raising well-rounded children and the dynamics of college athletics.

Takeaways

Bowl games have lost some appeal but are still important.

Family traditions play a significant role in holiday celebrations.

Literary influences shape an author's writing style.

Pressure from a famous parent can impact an author's journey.

Writing about underrepresented voices is crucial for empathy.

Sports can serve as a platform for discussing social issues.

Pioneering in any field comes with challenges and loneliness.

Understanding different perspectives is essential in today's society.

Raising children with diverse experiences fosters empathy.

Authors must balance their craft with marketing efforts.

Titles

Exploring the Intersection of Sports and Social Justice

The Power of Storytelling in Sports

Sound bites

"I love bowl games."

"I spent eight years working on it."

"You have to use your voice."

Chapters

00:00 Introduction to Andrew Maraniss

01:41 Family Traditions and Holiday Celebrations

02:51 Literary Influences and Favorite Books

08:00 Andrew's Background and Career

09:57 Growing Up with a Pulitzer Prize-Winning Father

11:45 Pressure of Following in Father's Footsteps

14:14 Themes of Social Justice in Andrew's Writing

22:14 Understanding Race and Identity

28:59 Perry Wallace and His Impact

29:04 The Legacy of Perry Wallace

32:17 Pioneering in a Segregated Society

36:30 The Courage to Stand Alone

39:27 The Long Road to Recognition

46:08 Understanding Different Perspectives

50:04 Raising Open-Minded Children

59:49 Advice for Authors and Publishers

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

Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Technical Challenges

02:45 Lane Kiffin's Coaching Decisions

05:56 Music Preferences and Nostalgia

08:52 Life in New York City

11:49 Aging and Working with Youth

14:53 AJ's Career Journey and Aspirations

17:47 Navigating the Sports Industry

20:49 Experiences at HBCUs and Diversity in Sports

28:08 Understanding Different Backgrounds in Athletics

33:08 The Impact of NIL on College Sports

40:27 Career Development for Student Athletes

45:56 The Reality of Division I Aspirations

54:21 Advice for Law Students and Young Professionals

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

Keywords

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

Takeaways

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

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

Keywords

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

Takeaways

Athletes often struggle with identity after sports.

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

Diverse experiences are crucial for personal growth.

Networking is key to finding opportunities beyond sports.

Exposure to different cultures enriches personal development.

Athletes should explore interests outside of sports.

Building relationships can open unexpected doors.

Life skills are essential for post-sports success.

Mindset and resilience are vital for overcoming challenges.

Journaling can help athletes reflect and grow.

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

Instagram - https://instagram.com/shed_ave

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Sound Bites:

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

🎙️ Episode: Building Legacy, Leadership & a Little Laughter

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

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

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

Personal LinkedIn:

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

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

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

Leaders Need Systems Links:

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

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

LNS IG: @leadersneedsystems

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

💡 Tune in if you’ve ever:

Needed a reminder that leadership is messy—but worth it

Wanted to balance purpose with peace

Missed those old-school TV vibes

Or just love a good laugh with your motivation

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

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

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

💡 Takeaways

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

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

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

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

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

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

💡 Key Takeaways:

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

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

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

https://www.btfprogram.com/about

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

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

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

We talked:

👕 Why natural fibers matter for your body + your planet

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

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

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

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

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

📌 Guest Bio:

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

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