From 345 lbs to 180 — Tyler Jones’ story is one of transformation, persistence, and finding purpose. The Oklahoma native and University of Kansas grad has built a career in sports media covering OU Football, NASCAR, and the OKC Thunder.In this episode, Tyler opens up about his 165-pound weight loss journey, how it’s impacted his life and career, and what it means to come full circle covering the team he grew up rooting for. We also dive into his path as a freelancer, how storytelling fuels his work, and the pride he takes in his Choctaw heritage.We close with college football and basketball talk — including OU’s College Football Playoff chances, KU’s rise under Lance Leipold, and whether the OKC Thunder are the next NBA dynasty.If you enjoy the conversation, don’t forget to subscribe, leave a comment, and share who you’d like to see on a future episode!00:00 – Intro01:30 – Talking about Tyler’s new roles in sports media02:46 – Inspiration for going full-time as a freelancer & the freedom that comes with it06:24 – The 165-lb weight loss journey & how confidence changed everything14:31 – Advice for others on setting goals & staying consistent with weight loss16:06 – Real reactions to his transformation & learning who your true friends are19:00 – Coming full circle: covering the team he grew up watching26:25 – Brady St. Blends Ad Read ($1 off if you subscribe)27:03 – Showing versatility across sports radio, local news & digital coverage31:26 – Finding your voice & perfecting your craft over time36:51 – Why storytelling is the best part of any job40:31 – Tyler’s Choctaw heritage & how identity fuels his purpose45:30 – The importance of networking in sports media50:32 – Can OU Football make the College Football Playoff?56:51 – KU Football: Lance Leipold’s rebuild & next steps for the Jayhawks1:43:18 – KU Basketball: Darryn Peterson hype, Bill Self’s NIL evolution & Jacque Vaughn as next HC?1:48:05 – Are the OKC Thunder the next NBA dynasty?1:52:58 – Follow Tyler on social media + Subscribe to Couzin’s Conversations#couzinsconversations #podcast #weightlossjourney #sportsmedia #oklahomacitythunder #oklahomasooners #kansasjayhawks #choctaw #nativeamericanculture #storytelling #sports #personalgrowth #careeradvice #networking