Podcast
More than 94
Hosted by More Than 94 · EN
Welcome to "More than 94", the podcast that breaks the stereotype that college athletes can only go pro in sports. In each episode, we interview former collegiate athletes who have found success in non-sports careers after graduation. Join us as we explore the personal stories and unique journeys of these individuals, and how their experiences as athletes have prepared them for success in other fields. From business to entertainment, law enforcement to entrepreneurship, our guests prove that the skills and mindset developed through athletics can be applied to any profession.
10episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Former College Athlete Jahbari McLennan on Identity After Sports, Sales Lessons, and NIL Money Management | More Than 94
Feb 1400:45:26Tap to summarizen this episode of More Than 94, host Shania interviews her husband, former athlete Jahbari McLennan, about redefining success after sports. Jahbari recounts starting with baseball, playing multiple sports in middle and high school in Austin, Texas (John H. Reagan), then focusing on football, attending Trinity Valley Community College for two years, and transferring to Arkansas State University where he met Shania. He explains the defining moment when he chose to walk away from pursuing a professional football career due to injuries, an underwhelming senior year, financial realities of training for pro day (including an offer to train with Brandon Kennedy in Fayetteville), and a growing focus on faith and identity beyond athletics. Jahbari details his transition into the workforce—networking to find banking opportunities at Regions Bank, facing low starting pay and limited raises, and pivoting into sales through Vector Marketing/Cutco (door-to-door knife sales) where he learned perseverance and handling rejection, later selling cars, and eventually becoming a full-time real estate agent, investor, and coach. The conversation explores how athletic habits translate into entrepreneurship—relationship-building, practicing more than performing, training for objections, and learning to have hard conversations—while challenging the idea that Division I athletics automatically builds time management since schedules are largely managed for athletes. They discuss the need for discipline, consistency, boundaries, delegation, and building a team to avoid becoming a slave to the business. Shania and Jahbari also address misconceptions that athletic success always equals strong work ethic, noting that talent can carry some athletes without discipline and that poor coaching can model weak leadership. Living near Texas A&M in the NIL era, they discuss gaps in financial education for young athletes, including taxes, asset-building, people skills, trust, and the risks of wasting money early. Jahbari shares practical advice for graduating athletes not going pro: develop curiosity outside sports, study fields of interest like you would study the game, consider leaving home to grow in new environments, and prioritize community and character development (including being part of a healthy church). The episode closes with a brief discussion of their marriage as two opposite personalities and how accepting differences has strengthened their relationship.
Transcribe →Brandon Kennedy: From College Football to Real Life Success
Feb 9, 202500:55:53Tap to summarizeIn this episode of 'More Than 94', Brandon Kennedy joins us to share his transition journey from being a star fullback at the University of Arkansas to redefining success off the field. He talks about the challenges of not having a plan B after not signing with the Buffalo Bills, the importance of humility and perseverance, and how his faith played a significant role in his life post-football. Discover how Brandon transitioned from sports to roles in various industries including ministry and construction, exemplifying the transferable skills and resilience instilled by athletics. Tune in to hear Brandon's profound insights on leadership, teamwork, and the importance of staying persistent and humble.
Transcribe →From Football Field to Law Firm: Taylor Stockemer's Journey
Jan 31, 202500:41:10Tap to summarizeIn this episode of More Than 94, host engages in a candid conversation with Taylor Stockemer, a former wide receiver at Arkansas State University who transitioned into a successful career as an attorney. Taylor shares his unique journey from being ingrained in sports to becoming an attorney at Friday Eldridge and Clark LLP. He discusses the challenges he faced in balancing academics and athletics, his late start in sports, and the eventual realization that law school was his calling. Taylor also reflects on the importance of networking, adapting to life after sports, the significance of structure and teamwork in his professional life, and his passion for coaching Little League football. Tune in to hear valuable insights on how athletes can prepare for life beyond sports and the significance of having a backup plan.
Transcribe →Life After College Sports: Megan Lewis' Journey to Success
Jan 30, 202500:45:24Tap to summarizeIn this episode of 'More Than 94,' we talk with Megan Lewis, an Arkansas State alumna and former collegiate basketball player. Megan shares her experiences about how playing sports prepared her for the real world, and the challenges she faced transitioning to life after basketball. From her first shot at Six Flags to earning her Master's degree and becoming a manager at Target, Megan offers valuable insights for athletes approaching graduation. Join us as we delve into life lessons, career advice, and the importance of perseverance.
Transcribe →Redefining Identity: Shatara Stone's Journey from the Court to Career Success
Jan 30, 202500:52:01Tap to summarizeIn this powerful episode of 'More Than 94,' we dive into the inspiring story of Shatara Stone. Growing up in a financially challenged family, she found her identity and escape in basketball. She attended Arkansas State University and later Missouri Southern State, facing numerous injuries along the way. Despite the hardships, Shatara never gave up, eventually transitioning from a coaching career into banking after becoming a mother. Join us as she shares valuable lessons on self-worth, fear, and the importance of finding an identity beyond sports. This episode also highlights the importance of maintaining mental and emotional health, fostering relationships, and having grace with oneself. Don't miss this enlightening conversation about resilience and redefining success beyond the athletic arena.
Transcribe →From Professional Basketball Player to Firefighter: Ashley Olvera Inspiring Journey
Jan 18, 202500:41:43Tap to summarizeIn this episode of 'More Than 94,' we chat with Ashley Olvera an Arkansas State alumni and former professional basketball player who transitioned into a fulfilling career as a firefighter/paramedic. Ashley shares her journey from playing basketball overseas to finding a new sense of purpose in serving her community in Little Elm, Texas. She talks about the challenges of leaving sports, the importance of faith and family, the rewarding aspects of her new job, and offers valuable advice for athletes and graduates facing their own transitions. Tune in to be inspired by Ashley's story of resilience, adaptability, and following new passions beyond sports.
Transcribe →Beyond the Court: Shay Scott's Journey from College Hoops to Corporate Success
Jan 3, 202500:43:36Tap to summarizeIn this episode of 'More Than 94,' former athletes redefine success. Host welcomes Shay Scott, a North Little Rock native and Arkansas State alumna, to share her transition from Division I basketball to corporate America. Sharina opens up about her initial reluctance towards basketball, her high school and college experiences, and the rigorous life of a Division I athlete. She discusses the challenges of adjusting to adult life, her varied career path, and the valuable life lessons learned from basketball. Shay also offers advice for current collegiate athletes on navigating post-college life. Tune in for an authentic and inspiring conversation about perseverance, teamwork, and personal growth.
Transcribe →Beyond the Gym: The Emotional & Mental Support of Athletes with AT Natalie Trotter
Dec 26, 202400:43:41Tap to summarizeIn this insightful episode of 'More Than 94', host Nene is joined by veteran athletic trainer Natalie Trotter, who shares her journey from a small town in Mississippi to working with elite athletes in the WNBA. Natalie emphasizes the importance of a 'human first' approach to athletic training, focusing on the emotional and mental well-being of athletes. She recounts her diverse experiences across various institutions, the challenges faced by student-athletes, and the evolving landscape of athletic training. Natalie also discusses the crucial role of mental health awareness and holistic care in sports. Tune in to hear about her philosophy, professional growth, and heartfelt dedication to supporting athletes on and off the field.
Transcribe →Balancing Life and Basketball: A Journey with Jazmine Nolen
Dec 19, 202401:11:58Tap to summarizeIn this episode of 'More Than 94,' host Nene features Jazmine Nolen, a former Arkansas State University athlete. Jazmine shares her life story, discussing how intentionality and discipline from basketball guided her through college and into her career. From her family's influence in sports to her journey as a student-athlete and eventual transition into motherhood and a professional career, Jazmine offers rich insights and advice for young athletes and those transitioning out of sports. She also speaks candidly about the challenges and blessings of balancing life, love, and career, and emphasizes the importance of networking, discipline, and having a diverse skillset.
Transcribe →Kelsey Locke's Journey from Collegiate Athlete to Multifaceted Professional
Dec 19, 202401:06:17Tap to summarizeIn this episode of More Than 94, host Nene is joined by former Arkansas State University athlete Kelsey Locke (née Reichert) to discuss her extraordinary journey from collegiate sports to a versatile professional career. Kelsey shares insights into how sports shaped her work ethic and adaptability, her experiences transitioning from sports to a career in physical therapy, and the unique challenges and rewards of working in home health care. The conversation delves into the reality of identity shifts post-sports, building relationships, and the significance of hard work and seizing opportunities.
Transcribe →