Episode 2: How Student-Athletes Build Their Brand, Earn Money & Win with NIL | REI Sports Network

What if every student-athlete had the opportunity to build a personal brand, launch merchandise, and earn income through NIL?In Episode 2 of REI Sports Network, host Debrina Wright is joined by Ben and Alek, founders of Signature Drop Shop, to explore how today's athletes can turn their passion into opportunity through Name, Image & Likeness (NIL), branding, entrepreneurship, and social media.The conversation goes beyond the headlines, breaking down what NIL really is, why every athlete—not just Division I stars—should be building a personal brand, and how students can start creating opportunities today.This episode also marks the official partnership between REI Prep and Signature Drop Shop, bringing NIL education, branding resources, and merchandising opportunities to REI Prep student-athletes and digital athletes.In this episode:• What NIL really means (and common misconceptions)• Building your personal brand before college• How athletes can monetize their passion• Social media strategies that attract opportunities• Creating and selling your own merchandise• Using AI to build your brand faster• Why professionalism matters online• The future of NIL, entrepreneurship, and sports careersGuests:Ben & AlekFounders, Signature Drop ShopConnect with Signature Drop Shop🌐 https://signaturedropshop.com🏀 Athlete Marketplace:https://signaturedropshop.com/searchConnect with REI Prep🌐 https://reiprep.org🎙️ REI Sports Network📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/reiprep/📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/REIPrepAZ💼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/reiprepAbout REI Sports NetworkREI Sports Network is the official media network of REI Prep, featuring conversations with athletes, coaches, educators, entrepreneurs, and industry leaders shaping the future of sports.From student-athlete development and sports careers to esports, NIL, leadership, and innovation, every episode is designed to educate, inspire, and create opportunity.No Shortcuts. Just Miles.