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RU STRONG
Jeff Durr
96 episodes
13 hours ago
Welcome to RU Strong, hosted by Jeff Durr! This podcast is a platform for current and former college athletes to share their stories of resilience, perseverance, and strength. Join us as we delve into the mental and physical challenges athletes encounter both on and off the field. From the intense pressures of competition to the transition out of sports, we'll explore how these experiences shape their lives.
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Mental Health
Health & Fitness
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All content for RU STRONG is the property of Jeff Durr and is served directly from their servers with no modification, redirects, or rehosting. The podcast is not affiliated with or endorsed by Podjoint in any way.
Welcome to RU Strong, hosted by Jeff Durr! This podcast is a platform for current and former college athletes to share their stories of resilience, perseverance, and strength. Join us as we delve into the mental and physical challenges athletes encounter both on and off the field. From the intense pressures of competition to the transition out of sports, we'll explore how these experiences shape their lives.
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Mental Health
Health & Fitness
Episodes (20/96)
RU STRONG
Episode 96 Bill Burke Former College and NFL Quarterback

Welcome back to another episode of the RU Strong Podcast. Today’s guest is someone who truly embodies leadership,resilience, and transformation. Bill Burke, former Michigan State University quarterback, peak performance coach, and host of Outside the Arena.

During his time in East Lansing, Bill led the Spartans to a 10-2 record, a Citrus Bowl victory, and earned his place in program history with over 5,400 passing yards and 46 career touchdowns. He once held the single game passing record of 400 yards, set against none other than Michigan and a young Tom Brady on the opposing sideline.

Bill was part of Nick Saban’s first recruiting class at Michigan State, where he learned firsthand what it meant to perform under pressure and embrace adversity. That journey, from battling on Big Ten fields to stepping into the business world, became the foundation for his life’s mission, helping othersreach their peak performance, mentally, physically, and professionally.

In this powerful conversation, Bill opens up about:     His recruiting process and the lessons learned from playing under Nick Saban. What it takes to embrace discomfort and perform when everything’s on the line.      How to carry a “next-play mentality” into business, leadership, and life.The importance of team culture, mental toughness, and thetransformation that happens off the field.

From shocking the world by upsetting #1-ranked Ohio State, to learning how to lead through adversity, Bill’s story is one ofgrit, gratitude, and growth.

So, whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or leader striving for your own breakthrough moments, get ready for an inspiring playbook on how to stay strong, stay focused, and keep moving forward.

This is the RU Strong Podcast and today’s guest, Bill Burke.

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14 hours ago
1 hour 11 minutes 14 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 95 Mike Vanbrill Former College Wrestler

Welcome back to another powerful episode of the RU Strong Podcast, where we celebrate the stories of athletes who refuse to quit when life gets tough.

Today, I’m fired up to introduce a guest whose story defines resilience, discipline, and redemption, Mike Vanbrill, one of the most accomplished wrestlers to ever wear the Rutgers “R.”

A South Jersey native from Clearview High School, Mike was a high school All-American, finishing with an incredible 37–1 record his senior year and a state runner-up finish. At Rutgers, he became a three-time NCAA qualifier, Big Ten bronze medalist, four-time Academic All-Big Ten, and two-time Academic All-American, proving excellence on the mat and in the classroom.

But what makes Mike’s story truly remarkable isn’t just the stats. It’s his journey. From grueling training camps thattested his limits, to the heartbreak of seeing his first NCAA Tournament canceled by COVID, to walking away from wrestling and rediscovering himself in nature, even setting a world record cliff dive over 100 feet. Mike’s story is about finding balance, purpose, and faith in the process.

Today, Mike is the Creative Director at Click Funnels, working alongside entrepreneur Russell Brunson, while still helpinglead his family’s thriving Van Brill Pools & Spas business in South Jersey. His path from a wrestling mat to the business world is a lesson in hard work, reinvention, and stayinggrounded no matter how high you climb.

So, get ready because this conversation dives deep into perseverance, mindset, family, and the power of believing in yourself even when life throws you off balance.

Here’s my conversation with Mike Vanbrill.

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15 hours ago
1 hour 20 minutes 31 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 94 Jason Sousa Former College and Professional Soccer Player

Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast, where we dive deep into the stories of athletes and coaches who defineperseverance, purpose, and the power of mindset.

Today, I’m thrilled to welcome Coach Jason Sousa, founder of The Athletic Precision Group, a transformational coaching company helping athletes rewire their minds for success beyond the game. Jason is a certified mental performance coach, a three-time collegiate All-American, and was a first-round USL draft pick by the Rochester Rhinos. Hisjourney also includes leading Le Moyne College to its first-ever Final Four appearance and earning a master’s degree in sports education.

From his time as a professional soccer player to his mission today as a mindset coach, Jason has dedicated his life tohelping athletes develop the mental tools that separate good from great, teaching grit, confidence, focus, and resilience both in sport and in life.

In this episode, we discuss the mental side of performance, how athletes create their own ceilings, the transition out ofsport, and why true success starts with mastering the mind. Jason shares his philosophy on redefining identity, breaking limiting beliefs, and finding purpose after the final whistle.

If you’re an athlete, coach, or parent who wants to understand how mental conditioning drives long-term success, thisconversation is one you won’t want to miss.

Let’s get started, here’s Coach Jason Sousa on the RU Strong Podcast!!

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6 days ago
50 minutes 20 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 93 Jackson Proctor Dartmouth / Northern Illinois Football Player

Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast, where we dive deep into the stories of athletes who define perseverance, passion, and purpose.

Today, I’m fired up to welcome a young man whosejourney reflects courage, intelligence, and an unshakable belief in hard work, Jackson Proctor.

Jackson grew up in Kent, Washington, and made alife-changing decision to travel 3,000 miles across the country to play football at one of the most prestigious academic institutions in America, Dartmouth College. There, he became the starting quarterback under the late Coach Buddy Teevens, a man who not only revolutionized the game with his approach to safety and leadership but also coached me decades ago when I played at the University of Maine.

Jackson’s story is one of discipline, sacrifice, and growth. From adapting to life on the East Coast and managing therigorous demands of Ivy League academics, to becoming a team leader who helped his program capture multiple Ivy League Championships, Jackson has demonstratedthat true success requires balance in the classroom, on the field, and in life.

In this episode, we talk about what it means to trust your gut, to make tough decisions at 18 years old, to overcomesetbacks like injuries and homesickness, and to embrace the “40-Year Plan” — the idea that what you do during four years of college sets the tone for the next forty years of your life.

Now preparing to take his next step at Northern Illinois University, Jackson Proctor continues to embody the values of hard work, leadership, and humility, qualities that make him not only a strong athlete, but a stronger human being.

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1 week ago
56 minutes 45 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 92 Mia Gardner-Zambarano Former College Soccer Player

Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast, where we dive deep into the stories of athletes who define perseverance,purpose, and personal growth.

Today, I’m fired up to welcome a phenomenal guest whose journey takes us from the soccer fields of New Jersey to the front lines of athlete mental health and performance.

Mia Gardner-Zambarano grew up in New Jersey,where her love for sports and competition took root at an early age. A standout soccer player at West Essex High School,Mia went on to compete at the Division I level at Sacred Heart University, where she majored in psychology andbuilt lifelong friendships and memories as part of the Pioneer family.

Her college experience, however, wasn’t without adversity. A devastating knee injury tested her resilience and mental toughness, ultimately shaping the direction of her life beyond the game. That recovery journey sparked an interest in how the mind and body work together, and how athletes can use both to reach peak performance.

After earning her master’s degree from Boston University, Mia became a licensed clinical social worker,specializing in mental health and performance for elite athletes. She’s now the founder of Geared Up, an innovative online mental health and performance training platform designed specifically for college athletes. Through Geared Up, Mia is helping redefine what it means to be “mentally tough,” empowering athletes to understand, assess, and strengthen their mental game the same way they train their physical one.

In this episode, we dive into Mia’s journey, fromher playing days and her injury comeback, to her passion for helping athletes develop confidence, balance, and mental clarity both on and off the field.

Get ready for an inspiring conversation with a true game-changer in the world of athlete wellness, MiaGardner-Zambarano.

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1 week ago
57 minutes 9 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 91 University of Michigan Baseball Coach Tracy Smith / Mets #1 Draft Pick Mitch Voit

Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast, where we dive deep into the stories of athletes and coaches who define perseverance, passion, and purpose.

Today, I’m fired up to welcome one of college baseball’s most respected leaders, University of Michigan Head BaseballCoach Tracy Smith and his former standout player, now New York Mets first-round draft pick, Mitch Voit.

Coach Smith’s journey has been nothing short of legendary. With over 800 career victories, back-to-back Big Ten titles, and 90+ MLB draft picks to his name, he’s built powerhouse programs at Indiana,Arizona State, and now Michigan, all while mentoring some of the game’s biggest stars, from Kyle Schwarberto Spencer Torkelson.

Joining him is the young man who represents everything Michigan baseball stands for, Mitch Voit, a Midwest-bornathlete whose humility, leadership, and relentless work ethic have made him one of the most complete players in college baseball. A former two-way star and Freshman All-American, Mitch’s rise from a small-town kid to a first-round MLBdraft pick is a story of commitment, growth, and staying true to his values.

In this episode, we’ll talk about the bond between coach and player, how it began with a recruiting miss at Arizona Stateand came full circle at Michigan and how trust, culture, and belief can transform not only a program but a person.

We’ll explore what separates good players from great ones, what “team-first” leadership looks like in today’s NIL era, and how mental toughness continues to define the next generation of athletes stepping into the national spotlight.

So, get ready for an inspiring, behind-the-scenes look at the Michigan baseball culture, from the clubhouse to the big leagues with Coach Tracy Smith and Mitch Voit.

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1 week ago
54 minutes 48 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 90 Nick Sura Former College Football Player

Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast, where we dive deep into the stories of athletes who define perseverance,passion, and purpose.
Today, I’m proud to welcome another outstanding young man from the Kean University Football team, Nick Sura.

Nick’s story is a masterclass in discipline, balance, and leadership. A standout linebacker for the Cougars, Nick earned All-Conference and All-District honors, carried a 3.7 GPA, and graduated magna cum laude, all while finishing hisdegree a year early. Now pursuing his MBA and preparing to enter the police academy, Nick continues to embody the same work ethic and integrity that made him a leader on the field and in the classroom.

In this episode, Nick opens about:

·        His early academic drive and how he earned 36 college credits before stepping footon campus

·        The lessons from balancing academics, athletics,and sacrifice or as he calls it, “investmentof time”

·        The shared suffering and brotherhood of collegefootball

·        Overcoming setbacks, including a tough 0-10 season that became a catalyst forrebuilding culture and unity

·        His decision to serve in law enforcement and howleadership, empathy, and discipline from football translate to life on theforce

Nick’s mantra “Seek discomfort” captures what this episode is all about. Whether it’s waking up early, pushing through pain, or leading through adversity, Nick reminds us that growth happens outside your comfort zone.

Tune in to hear a powerful conversation about accountability, purpose, and the drive to make a difference on and off the field.

🎧 RU Strong. Real stories. Real athletes. Real life.
#RUStrong #RUFinancialAthleticDepartment #KeanUniversity #CollegeFootball#Leadership #MentalToughness #AthleteMindset #PoliceAcademy

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2 weeks ago
58 minutes 57 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 89 Trevor Maida University of Texas Swimming Coach

Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast, where we dive deep into the stories of athletes and coaches who defineperseverance, passion, and purpose.

Today, I’m fired up to welcome a phenomenal young coach who’s already built an extraordinary résumé in the world ofcollegiate swimming, Trevor Maida.

Trevor grew up in Hauppauge, New York, where his journey in sports began under the influence of his father, who coached him in cross-country and track. This October, Trevor and his father will share a once-in-a-lifetime honor, being inducted together into their High School Hall of Fame, a testament to family legacy, hard work, and generational impact.

After a standout swimming career and degree in Sports Studies and Exercise Science at St. Bonaventure University, Trevor began a meteoric rise through the coaching ranks. He went on to make stops at Indiana, Wisconsin, and Louisville, helping those programs reach championship heights, including Big Ten titles and ACC runner-up finishes.

Now part of the legendary coaching staff atthe University of Texas, Trevor continues to build one of the most dominant dynasties in college athletics, a program that’s captured 16 men’s national championships and 9 women’s titles. Beyond competition, he’s shaping athletes who excel both in the pool and in life, bringing perspective on the evolving world of college sports, NIL, and the mentalresilience needed to compete at the highest level.

In this episode, we talk about legacy, leadership, and lessons from a coach who’s proving that success isn’t defined by age, it’s defined by attitude, adaptability, and authenticity.

So, get ready for an inspiring conversation with University of Texas Assistant Coach Trevor Maida, right here on the RUStrong Podcast.

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3 weeks ago
1 hour 17 minutes 50 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 88 Tiana Bucknor Former College / Professional Soccer Player

Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast, where we dive deep into the stories of athletes who define perseverance, passion, and purpose.

Today, I’m fired up to welcome another University of Maine Black Bear and one of the most impressive student-athletes to ever come through that program, Tiana Bucknor.

Tiana’s journey started north of the border in Milton, Ontario, where she first fell in love with soccer, though not right away. She played basketball, volleyball, and ran track before realizing the sport that would take her around the world was,in fact, soccer. Her dedication and talent led her first to the University of Dayton, and later to the University of Maine, where she became team captain, an Outstanding Graduating International Student, and a Presidential Scholar with an incredible 3.95 GPA in kinesiology and she didn’t stop there. Tiana went on to earn her master’s degree in kinesiology with a 4.0 GPA.

After playing professionally in the U.K. for the London Bees, Tiana has come full circle returning to her alma mater as an Assistant Coach for the University of Maine Women’s Soccer Team, where she now mentors the next generation of Black Bears on and off the field.

In this episode, we talk about her journeyfrom navigating the recruiting process and overcoming coaching transitions to finding balance as a student-athlete, rediscovering her love for the game, and building the mental toughness it takes to thrive at both the collegiate andprofessional levels.

Get ready for an inspiring conversation with someone who truly embodies what it means to be RU Strong, TianaBucknor.

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3 weeks ago
1 hour 37 minutes 10 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 87 Aaron Martin Former College Football Player

Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast, hosted by Jeff Durr,where we dive deep into the stories behind the athletes, exploring the grit, mindset, and life lessons that carry far beyond the field.

Today’s guest is one of New Jersey’s finest, Aaron Martin a Bergen Catholic standout and Rutgers University wide receiver whose story embodies discipline, humility, and the power of perseverance.

Born in Northern California and raised in Oradell, New Jersey, Aaron grew up in a true football family. His brother Benplayed at Rutgers before him, and his father spent 14 seasons in the NFL with the New York Giants. From the moment Aaron stepped onto the field at Bergen Catholic one of the nation’s most competitive programs, he was forged in anenvironment of excellence, accountability, and pressure.

At Rutgers, Aaron became a four-year starter, averaging over 15 yards per catch a testament to his preparation, toughness, and drive. He learned under two legendary coaches Terry Shea and Greg Schiano and carried those lessons into every chapter of his life. From 5:30 a.m. winter ball sessions toovercoming injuries and learning how to lead through adversity, Aaron’s story is one of faith, family, and fierce competitiveness.

Today, he joins us from Houston, Texas, where he’s transitioned from the gridiron to a successful business career, still fueled by that same “attack the day” mentality that Coach Schiano instilled years ago.

In this episode, Aaron opens up about what it was like to grow up in a household of athletes, how he handled the spotlight ofBergen Catholic and Rutgers football, and the mental battles that come with injury, identity, and life after sports. He shares how lessons like “Do your 1/11th” and “Don’t hit the snooze button” continue to guide his approach to business, leadership, and family.

So get ready this conversation is packed with truth, toughness, and timeless takeaways for anyone striving to be great on and off the field.

This is the RU Strong Podcast, and here’s my guest Aaron Martin.

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3 weeks ago
1 hour 12 minutes 10 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 86 Alex Rauter College and Professional Hockey Player

Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast, the show where we explore the stories behind the athletes, the lessons learned beyond the scoreboard, and the strength it takes to succeed both on and off the field.

I’m your host, Jeff Durr, and today’s episode takes us across the globe, from New Jersey to Japan, for an incredible conversation with a young man whose journey defines what it means to be RU Strong.

He’s a Jersey native, a Watchung Hills High School graduate, and a proud alumnus of Cornell University, where he not only played Division I ice hockey but also served as team captain and earned All-Academic honors in the Ivy League,  proving excellence on the ice and in the classroom go hand in hand.

After college, he continued his pursuit of the game at the professional level, competing in the U.S. minor league system within NHL organizations, before taking his careerinternational — playing in Europe and now in Japan, where he currently skates for the Yokohama Grits in the Asian Ice Hockey League.

He’s also a proud inductee in the New Jersey Ice Hockey Hall of Fame, representing leadership, discipline, and the pursuit of excellence wherever hisskates take him.

Today, we dive into what it means to chaseyour dream across continents, adapt to new cultures, and build a life defined not only by hockey but by resilience, gratitude, and growth.

So, sit back and enjoy this inspiring conversation as we go “All In” with Alex Rauter right here on the RU Strong Podcast.

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4 weeks ago
1 hour 38 minutes 56 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 85 Jeff DeVaughn Former College Football Player

Welcome back to another episode of the RU Strong Podcast, where we spotlight athletes who continue to lead withstrength long after the game clock runs out.

Today, I’m honored to welcome another proud member of the Maine Black Bear family, a man whose discipline, intellect, and leadership have made an impact both on and off the field.

Jeff DeVaughn earned his bachelor’s degree inKinesiology and Exercise Science from the University of Maine, one of the toughest programs in college academics and went on to complete his master’s in Higher Education Administration. A two-time team captain, Jeff, exemplifiedwhat it means to lead with integrity and consistency.

His excellence didn’t stop on the gridiron, Jeff was named to the National Academic Team, honored as the M Club Dean Smith Award winner as the University of Maine’s TopMale Athlete and was even nominated for the America East Man of the Year.

After graduating, Jeff continued his journeyof purpose, completing postgraduate work at the University of Nebraska and now serving as Associate Director ofAthletics for Major Gifts and Sports Fundraising at Boston College, where he’s helping shape the future of collegiate athletics.

From the locker room to the leadership office, Jeff’s story is about persistence, humility, and building a life of meaningbeyond the field.

Let’s go All In with my guest today, former Maine Black Bear and true leader, Jeff DeVaughn.

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4 weeks ago
1 hour 25 minutes 45 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 84 Sarah Lawshe College Lacrosse Coach

Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast. I’m your host, Jeff Durr, and today I’m honored to share the mic with an incredible leader in the world of athletics and education, Sarah Lawshe.

Sarah’s journey is a powerful example of discipline, leadership, and balance. She began her athletic career at Shippensburg University, where she not only played women’s lacrosse but also served as captain of the team. From there, she went on to Wilkes University, earning her Master’s degree in education, serving as an assistant coach, and later stepping into the role of head coach, all while maintaining a 4.0 GPA.

Her commitment to excellence didn’t stop there.Sarah continued her coaching journey at Montclair State and also led as Director of Girls Lacrosse at Evolution LacrosseAcademy. Today, she brings her passion, resilience, and vision to the role of Head Coach of the Kean UniversityWomen’s Lacrosse Team.

On this episode, we’ll dive into Sarah’s experiences as both a player and coach, how she balanced academics andathletics at the highest level, and the lessons she now passes on to her players about leadership, perseverance, and life beyond the game.

Sarah, welcome to the RU Strong Podcast.

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1 month ago
1 hour 14 minutes 24 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 83 Rob Thompson Former College/ Professional Football Player

Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast, I’m your host Jeff Durr. Today, I’m thrilled to bring on a guest whosejourney is nothing short of extraordinary, Rob Thompson.

Rob’s story begins on the football field at the University of New Haven, where he was an All-Conference, All-New England, and All-American player. His playing days took him from the New England Patriots to a unique experience overseas in England. His legacy has been cemented in notone, not two, but three Hall of Fames: the New Haven County Football Hall of Fame, the West Haven High School Hall of Fame, and the University of New Haven Sports Hall of Fame.

But Rob’s impact didn’t stop with athletics. His business career is equally impressive. He served as Managing Partner of North American Sports Group, returned to his alma mater as Director of Economic and Athletic Development, and later became an advisor with Game Plan U, helping athletes transition into business. Most recently, he co-founded American Gridiron 1880, continuing his mission ofinnovating in the sports world.

Rob is also the founder of the 5% Club program for athletes and the author of How to Land a Dream Job if YourDad’s Not the Owner of the Team and the SportsDream Job Playbook. His dedication to mentoring athletes and shaping careers makes him a perfect guest for this platform.

So let’s dive in, here’s my conversation with Rob Thompson.

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1 month ago
1 hour 48 minutes 5 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 82 Emily Esposito Former College Basketball Player

Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast! I’m your host, Jeff Durr, and today I’m honored to sit down with an incredible guest whose journey embodies resilience, reinvention,and leadership.

She grew up in Gorham, Maine, making a name for herself as a standout basketball star. Her talent took her to the national stage at Villanova University, one of the biggestplatforms in college basketball. Later, she transferred closer to home and finished her playing career at Boston University, where she graduated in 2022.

Like so many athletes, Emily faced both physical and mental challenges along the way. But rather than letting thosestruggles define her, she turned them into fuel. Out of her own journey, she built a business called Empowered, where she trains and coaches athletes and groups not only in basketball, but also in mindset, resilience, and self-discovery.

She lives by the quote she created: “We are not our sports. We are our stories.” That powerful reminder is exactly why her voice matters here today.

Please join me in welcoming to the show, Emily Esposito.

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1 month ago
1 hour 42 minutes 7 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 81 Ang Teeple Former College Field Hockey Player/Mental Fitness Coach

Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast, I’m your host, Jeff Durr, and today I have the privilege of introducing a guest whose story is both powerful and deeply moving.

My guest, Ang Teeple, has lived a journey of resilience, courage, and transformation. She began her professional path as a teacher and coach, but her life took a profound turn when she chose to confront and work through years ofgrief, trauma, and mental health struggles. Instead of being defined by adversity, Ang discovered her true purpose, turning her challenges into a mission to inspire others.

That mission is captured in the title of herbook, Rise Up, which reflects not only her own personal journey but also her commitment to helping othersovercome their battles. From those experiences, she’s gone on to become a transformational speaker, mental fitness coach, podcaster, author, and the founder of All In Athletes.

All In Athletes is more than an organization, it’sa movement dedicated to creating a positive and inclusive culture in athletics. Through mental fitness education, meaningful conversations, and powerful connections, Ang is building a platform that empowers athletes to embracevulnerability, prioritize their mental health, and ultimately live with purpose.

Her mission is crystal clear: to go all in, ignite change, and inspire lives. And that’s exactly what she’s been doing, whether on stage, on her podcast, or through the communities she serves.

On today’s episode, we’re going to dive intoAng’s story, what she’s overcome, what drives her, and how she’s using her platform to change the game for athletes everywhere. This is a conversation about resilience, courage, and the power of choosing to Rise Up, no matter what life throws your way.


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1 month ago
1 hour 26 minutes 12 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 80 Jenna Crisalli Former Rutgers Gymnast

On this week’s RU Strong Podcast, host Jeff Durr sits down with Jenna Crisalli , a former Rutgers University gymnast who turned her relentless competitive drive into a thriving career in medical device sales. From Freehold, NJ to the Big Ten stage, Jenna’s story is one of resilience, courage, and betting on herself. She walked on to the Rutgers gymnastics team and ultimately earned a full scholarship by her junior year , a moment she calls one of the best of her life. In this episode, Jenna shares how the discipline, courage, and mindset it took to compete in gymnastics at the Big Ten level prepared her for success beyond the sport. Today, she works in the operating room selling advanced surgical and robotic equipment, and she’s also found a new competitive outlet in boxing. Her journey is a powerful reminder that thelessons we learn as athletes , discipline, courage, and resilience , prepare us to thrive in life after sports. Tune in now and be inspired by Jenna’s journey

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1 month ago
44 minutes 30 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 79 Steven Davis Jr. Former Univ. Of Minnesota Football Player

Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast!I’m your host, Jeff Durr, and today I’m fired up to introduce you to an incredible guest whose journey truly embodies strength on and off the field.

Joining me is Steven Davis Jr, a proud son of St. Louis, Missouri, and a 2008 graduate of the University of Minnesota, where he made his mark on the football field as a defensive force. His highlight reel tells the story, squaring off against powerhouses like Michigan, Ohio State, Wisconsin, and Iowa, and even taking a scoop-and-score fumble to the end zone. Playing Big Ten football at the highest level, Steven built his foundation on competition, resilience, and teamwork.

But his story doesn’t stop at football. For thepast eight years, Steven has continued to rise at his alma mater, the University of Minnesota, moving from Director of Infinity Engagement to Associate Vice President, and now serving as Senior Director. His impact stretches beyond theuniversity, as he dedicates himself to helping athletes navigate life after sports.

He’s an athlete transition coach with Athlete Soul, a certified trainer and facilitator with the Positive CoachingAlliance, the founder of Strive Higher After Sports, and even the author of a powerful journal designed to guide athletesin their next chapter.

Today, we’ll dive into his story, his days under the lights in the Big Ten, his transition into leadership and mentorship, and his passion for empowering athletes to strive higher once their playing days are over.

Let’s get started, this is the RU Strong Podcast with my guest, Steven Davis.

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1 month ago
1 hour 21 minutes 47 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 78 Kieran Williams Former Rutgers Soccer Player

Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast! I’m your host, Jeff Durr, and today I’m excited to sit down with an incredible guest whose story is all about resilience, reinvention,and passion.

He’s a former Rutgers University soccer player whose athletic career took an unexpected turn after a major injury. But instead of letting that setback define him, he used it as fuel, shifting his mindset and channeling hiscompetitive drive into the world of entrepreneurship.

Now, he’s building a successful business, creating content that’s as entertaining as it is inspiring, and showing others how to turn obstacles into opportunities. If you haven’t yet, do yourself a favor and check out his great video outtakes on LinkedIn, they’re a perfect example of the courage,creativity, and authenticity he brings to everything he does.

We’re going to dive deep into his journey, hisentrepreneurial mindset, and the lessons he’s learned along the way.

Please join me in welcoming to the RU Strong Podcast, Kieran Williams!

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1 month ago
1 hour 26 minutes 4 seconds

RU STRONG
Episode 77 Rashard Hall Former Clemson and NFL Football Player

Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast. I’m your host, Jeff Durr, and today I have an absolutely phenomenal guest, someone whose list of accomplishments could fill a book on its own.

From the football field at Clemson University, where he was a two-time ACC Champion, First Team Freshman All American, Clemson Rookie of the Year, and All-ACC standout, to the classroom, where he earned his bachelor’s in marketing, professional sales certification, and not one but two master’s degrees, including an MBA in entrepreneurial and business operations, this young man has excelled atevery level.

He was recognized with the Weaver-James-Corrigan Postgraduate Award, an honor given to only 42 student-athletes out of over 100,000 across the ACC, highlighting his commitment not just to football, but to academic and personal excellence.

After Clemson and a journey into the NFL, Rashard transitioned into a career dedicated to building others. He’s served as an academic advisor at his alma mater,Director of Career and Professional Development, a member of the NFL Committee, and the founder of Scholar AthELITE,a platform dedicated to developing athletes into leaders. He’s also the author of “The Scholar Elite: How to Become anElite Athlete and Professional,” a must-read for athletes seeking to elevate both on and off the field.

Hailing proudly from St. Augustine, Florida, Rashard credits his hometown for shaping his values of servant leadership and resilience. Today, he’s a devoted husband, father of two, and someone who measures success not by accolades, butby how many people he can bless.

It’s an honor to welcome to the RU StrongPodcast, Rashard Hall.

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1 month ago
1 hour 6 minutes 19 seconds

RU STRONG
Welcome to RU Strong, hosted by Jeff Durr! This podcast is a platform for current and former college athletes to share their stories of resilience, perseverance, and strength. Join us as we delve into the mental and physical challenges athletes encounter both on and off the field. From the intense pressures of competition to the transition out of sports, we'll explore how these experiences shape their lives.