Braxton Miller - From Gadget Player to Gadget Investor

TL;DR

Braxton Miller discusses his transition from football to entrepreneurship.

Transcript

• That's the type of legacy I want to leave, you know, for the people. It's not about me, it's for the people around me. - This is Entrepreneur's, The Playbook, where I give you access each week to the world's greatest athletes and executives, about their personal and professional playbook, and what has made them champions on and off the field. Thi... Read More

Key Insights

• Braxton Miller emphasizes the importance of legacy, focusing on giving back to his community and being a role model for young children.
• Transitioning from quarterback to wide receiver required humility and resilience, highlighting the challenges athletes face with career changes due to injuries.
• Miller's relationship with Coach Urban Meyer was pivotal, showcasing the deep personal connections beyond the game that can influence career decisions.
• Choosing VaynerSports was a strategic move for Miller, focusing on branding and business opportunities beyond his sports career.
• Miller's entrepreneurial ventures include Play Impossible, a smart ball company, showing his interest in innovative technology and its impact on family and fitness.
• Social media played a significant role in Miller's brand development, with a notable boost from a shoutout by LeBron James during a personal setback.
• Adidas appealed to Miller due to its supportive and family-oriented culture, contrasting with his previous experiences with Nike.
• Miller stresses the importance of mentorship and guidance from trusted figures like A.J. and Gary Vaynerchuk to navigate business opportunities effectively.

Questions & Answers

Q: What was Braxton Miller's initial career challenge?

Braxton Miller faced a significant career challenge when he had to transition from being a quarterback to a wide receiver due to a shoulder injury. This required him to embrace humility and resilience, as he had to adapt to a new role while maintaining his athletic performance and pursuing his NFL dreams.

Q: How did Coach Urban Meyer support Braxton Miller?

Coach Urban Meyer provided personal support to Braxton Miller during challenging times, such as when Miller's father had a heart attack. Meyer visited the hospital and had an hour-long conversation with Miller, demonstrating his commitment to his players beyond just their athletic performance, influencing Miller's decisions and career path.

Q: Why did Braxton Miller choose VaynerSports?

Braxton Miller chose VaynerSports because of their focus on branding and business opportunities beyond football. He valued the mentorship from A.J. and Gary Vaynerchuk, who provided him with guidance on navigating the business world, ensuring that he could establish a successful career outside of sports.

Q: What is Play Impossible, and why is it significant to Miller?

Play Impossible is an innovative company that developed a smart ball, which Miller invested in due to its potential to encourage physical activity and family bonding. The product aligns with Miller's values as a father, providing a way for his son to engage in active play, both indoors and outdoors, with advanced technology.

Q: How did social media impact Braxton Miller's career?

Social media significantly impacted Braxton Miller's career, especially after a shoutout from LeBron James, which increased his follower count substantially. This boost helped Miller build a strong personal brand, allowing him to engage with a broader audience and leverage his platform for entrepreneurial ventures and endorsements.

Q: Why did Miller choose Adidas over other brands?

Miller chose Adidas over other brands like Nike and Under Armour due to the supportive and family-oriented culture he experienced with them. He appreciated the comfort and style of Adidas products, as well as the strong relationships and backing they provided, aligning with his personal and professional values.

Q: What role does mentorship play in Miller's business decisions?

Mentorship plays a crucial role in Miller's business decisions, as he relies on trusted advisors like A.J. and Gary Vaynerchuk to guide him through complex business landscapes. Their straightforward advice and support help him discern genuine opportunities from potential scams, ensuring his ventures are successful and aligned with his goals.

Q: What legacy does Braxton Miller aim to leave?

Braxton Miller aims to leave a legacy of giving back to his community in Springfield, Ohio, by being a role model and icon for young children. He focuses on improving conditions in his hometown and providing opportunities for others, emphasizing that his success is not just about personal achievements but also about uplifting those around him.

Summary & Key Takeaways

• Braxton Miller discusses his journey from being a celebrated quarterback at Ohio State to transitioning into a wide receiver after a significant injury. He highlights the importance of resilience and humility in facing career challenges and the support he received from Coach Urban Meyer during difficult times.

• Miller's strategic choice to join VaynerSports emphasizes his focus on building a personal brand and exploring business opportunities beyond football. He shares insights into his entrepreneurial ventures, including the Play Impossible smart ball, which aligns with his values as a father and innovator.

• The significance of social media in Miller's career is evident, with a boost from LeBron James' shoutout. He discusses the importance of choosing the right agent and brand partnerships, like Adidas, which align with his personal and professional goals, emphasizing a family-oriented approach.