I Said No - Dr. Jen Fry - Episode 159

Welcome back to another episode of the RU Strong Podcast.Today’s guest is Dr. Jen Fry, a former college volleyball player and coach whose journey proves that sometimes the most meaningful opportunities come from paths you never expected to take.Jen began her education at a junior college before earning her bachelor’s degree, two master’s degrees, and ultimately her PhD.Her coaching career included stops at Norfolk State, Washington State, and the University of Illinois, where she helped coach a team that reached the national championship match.But her story extends far beyond volleyball.After experiencing the uncertainty and challenges of college coaching, Jen reinvented herself as an entrepreneur, speaker, author, and founder of multiple companies, including Jen Fry Talks and Cordel, a sports travel logistics platform.Today, she helps athletes, coaches, and organizations navigate difficult conversations, strengthen relationships, and find the confidence to advocate for themselves.In this episode, we discuss the risks she took throughout her coaching career, the power of asking better questions, why conflict can create opportunities for growth, and how athletes can build meaningful connections that prepare them for life beyond sports.Jen also shares an important reminder that applies to all of us: You do not need every opportunity. You just need one.Please welcome to the RU Strong Podcast, Dr. Jen Fry.