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.