Podcast Summary: Mick Unplugged – Episode Featuring LaVaughn Kelley

Title: From Naval Officer to Sports Mentor: LaVaughn Talks Leadership and Faith
Host: Mick Hunt
Guest: LaVaughn Kelley
Release Date: December 23, 2024

Introduction

In this compelling episode of "Mick Unplugged," host Mick Hunt engages in a profound conversation with LaVaughn Kelley, a distinguished former U.S. Naval Officer, football player, and founder of Divine Sports Entertainment. LaVaughn shares his transformative journey from military service to sports mentorship, delving into themes of leadership, faith, purpose, and the evolving landscape of athletics.

Discovering His 'Because' – Purpose and Motivation

Early in the conversation, LaVaughn articulates his core motivation:

[00:34] LaVaughn Kelley: "My purpose is to walk this earth, to be able to have my daughter as a parent, right? To have my daughter look at me and say, hey, my dad was somebody."

This 'Because' underscores LaVaughn's dedication to personal legacy and the profound impact he wishes to have on his daughter's life.

Mick Hunt relates this to his own experience, emphasizing how personal promises evolve into broader commitments impacting loved ones and communities.

Background and Military Service

LaVaughn narrates his decision to join the U.S. Naval Academy, detailing the influence of his mentor, Wayne Blair:

[04:21] LaVaughn Kelley: "One of my biggest mentors, Wayne Blair, was probably my biggest supporter to drive me in that era."

He reflects on the challenges of transitioning from a South Florida upbringing to the disciplined environment of the Naval Academy, highlighting the initial hardships and eventual triumphs, including transforming the football program despite a rocky start.

His military career spanned 20 years, during which he balanced his passion for football with his responsibilities as a Naval Officer, ultimately leading to leadership roles that honed his skills in team management and strategic decision-making.

Founding Divine Sports Entertainment

Transitioning from military service, LaVaughn co-founded Divine Sports Entertainment, a faith-based agency aimed at supporting athletes and entertainers. He explains the evolution of the company's mission:

[16:59] LaVaughn Kelley: "It's evolved a little bit, I would say initially, we still are faith based, right? That doesn't change... we want to be an extension of family."

Divine Sports focuses on building meaningful relationships beyond transactional interactions, incorporating weekly Bible studies and fostering an environment where clients can develop both professionally and personally. LaVaughn emphasizes authenticity and living by example as cornerstone principles of the agency.

Leadership Principles and Military Influence

LaVaughn draws heavily from his military background to inform his leadership style within Divine Sports. He outlines key principles:

1. Structured Implementation: Establishing clear programs with milestones to ensure efficiency.
2. Adaptability: Adjusting strategies based on evolving circumstances, akin to military intelligence operations.
3. Honest Mentorship: Acting as a "devil's advocate" to provide balanced perspectives, helping clients evaluate risks and make informed decisions.

[18:43] LaVaughn Kelley: "We move forward without second guessing, take that, move that in the right direction and then we go."

These principles foster a disciplined yet flexible environment, allowing Divine Sports to navigate the dynamic sports industry effectively.

The Power of Mentorship

A significant portion of the discussion centers on mentorship. LaVaughn emphasizes its critical role in personal and professional growth:

[21:13] LaVaughn Kelley: "Success leaves clues. I don't think I have to go and reinvent the wheel all the time."

He advises seeking mentors who have achieved the goals you aspire to, valuing both their methodologies and the lessons learned from their experiences. Additionally, LaVaughn highlights the importance of having mentors from diverse backgrounds to gain fresh perspectives and avoid tunnel vision.

Challenges for Modern Athletes and Entertainers

LaVaughn addresses contemporary issues faced by athletes and entertainers, particularly the necessity of branding and financial literacy in the age of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness):

[24:24] LaVaughn Kelley: "You are a brand, you are your own business. So technically, once you graduate, you become a CEO whether you want to or not, with no skills, no knowledge or anything, that title is on you."

He discusses the importance of educating clients on managing their finances, understanding tax implications, and building sustainable careers beyond their athletic or entertainment endeavors. LaVaughn underscores the need for early intervention and education to prepare athletes for the financial realities of their professions.

Handling Distractions in the Digital Age

Addressing the omnipresence of social media, LaVaughn offers strategies to maintain focus and discipline:

[26:54] LaVaughn Kelley: "I ask them... does that little time... is that playbook time? Is that another workout?... If you miss a beat or you don't hit a mark, I'm always going to be like, was there any other time and space that we could have done in that."

He encourages athletes to evaluate the cost of distractions, advocating for mindful usage of social media to ensure it doesn't impede their training and performance. LaVaughn's approach is rooted in accountability and making deliberate choices that prioritize long-term goals over immediate gratifications.

Rapid-Fire Segment

In a lighthearted rapid-fire segment, LaVaughn shares personal preferences:

• Favorite Holiday:

  [32:01] LaVaughn: "Fourth of July... fireworks... family time."

• Favorite NFL Team:

  [32:20] LaVaughn: "Tampa Bay Buccaneers."

• Favorite College Basketball Team:

  [32:44] LaVaughn: "Hurricanes all day."

• All-Time Favorite Athlete:

  [33:05] LaVaughn: "Bo Jackson, with fond memories of the All Stars cartoon."

Upcoming Plans and Professional Development

LaVaughn discusses his ongoing commitment to professional growth and Divine Sports' future endeavors:

[33:54] LaVaughn Kelley: "We're continuing to keep recruiting and getting ready to close some deals and bring some clients on the board for this next draft class... I'm applying for the Harvard Business School executive leadership course in June."

His dedication to continual learning and expanding Divine Sports reflects his unwavering commitment to excellence and leadership within the industry.

Conclusion and Final Thoughts

Mick Hunt wraps up the conversation by expressing gratitude for LaVaughn's service and insights, emphasizing the valuable lessons shared on leadership, purpose, and mentorship. LaVaughn reciprocates the appreciation, highlighting the mutual respect and the intention to continue meaningful dialogues in future episodes.

[36:18] LaVaughn Kelley: "Thank you for tuning in to Mick Unplugged. Keep pushing your limits, embracing your purpose, and chasing greatness."

Connect with LaVaughn Kelley

For listeners interested in following LaVaughn Kelley’s journey and Divine Sports Entertainment, he can be found on:

• Instagram: @lavaughnkelly
• Twitter: @lavaughnkelly

Key Takeaways:

1. Purpose-Driven Leadership: LaVaughn’s 'Because' centers on leaving a meaningful legacy for his daughter, guiding his professional and personal endeavors.
2. Mentorship Importance: Leveraging mentorship for growth, emphasizing learning from those who have achieved similar goals.
3. Adaptability and Structure: Balancing disciplined strategies with flexibility to navigate the ever-changing sports industry.
4. Navigating Modern Challenges: Educating athletes on branding, financial literacy, and managing digital distractions to ensure sustainable success.
5. Continuous Growth: Commitment to professional development and fostering an environment of learning and improvement within Divine Sports.

This episode of "Mick Unplugged" offers invaluable insights into the intersection of leadership, faith, and modern sports management, presented through LaVaughn Kelley’s inspiring journey. It's a must-listen for leaders, mentors, athletes, and anyone striving to create a purposeful impact in their respective fields.