So much has happened since we first released this conversation. Warrick has now given homes to more than 200 single parents, and Don began sharing Warrick’s story to audiences all around the world as part of his keynote speech that teaches the 10 Elements of Well-Told Story. Don takes each audience member through a journey from their scribbled-down ideas to a place where they can tell their story in a way that provides lasting impact and deeper relationships.
You are in for a treat. This conversation between Don and Warrick is one of my favorite episodes because of his candor and hilarious Bobby Bowden impression! Enjoy this rewind episode of Corporate Competitor Podcast!
Warrick Dunn was only the 22nd player in the National Football League’s history to carry the football for 10,000 yards. That fact is even more amazing if you know that Warrick is only 5 foot 8, 178 pounds. As impressive as that is, his life story is better.
Warrick was born to Betty Smothers, a Baton Rouge police officer. Two days after Warrick’s 18th birthday, his cell phone rang. His mother had been shot and killed in a robbery at a bank, and he became the man of the house. What he did next is, what I’d argue, makes him one of the greatest champions with whom I’ve had the chance to work.
He built his career on hard work and meeting challenges head-on: First from his mother, then from Florida State Football Coach Bobby Bowden, and finally from Tampa Bay Buccaneers Coach Tony Dungy. In this episode, you will learn about Warrick’s football journey and the legacy he created with his charity, Homes for the Holidays. Today, more than 500 children woke up in a home they are able to call their own because of the work of Warrick Dunn.
After joining the Falcons’ ownership group, Warrick returned to school to get an MBA because he wanted to ensure his credentials matched his business acumen. As several of his opposing linebackers have said over the years, who’s going to stop him?
14:00 How to overcome adversity.
"Don is one of the best storytellers I’ve ever met. I’ve known him for a long time and every time we talk I walk away wiser and more inspired. He is the best in the business at teaching you a skill – storytelling – that will last you a lifetime.”
“The ability for athletes to get hired is carried on through you because you are putting out the message that lessons learned from sports are important in life. It is embedded in this podcast, what you’re doing is significant.”
We speak the same language. I am inspired by the stories you tell, the people you have met, and the things you’ve done. Those of us that are competitors like to follow others that have been down that journey, so it is always fun talking to you!”
“Many of the leaders I have worked with were excellent athletes, and I think there is a direct correlation. You’re one of the few people that really has pursued this study, Don. Keep up the great work. What you are doing really makes a difference.”
“Don, you have mastered the skill of interviewing and asking great questions. That is a great skill all leaders need in order to understand their team members’ thought processes.”
Sign up to receive Don Yaeger’s weekly leadership contributions, and be the first to listen to new Corporate Competitor Podcast episodes.