S2 Ep 22 - Milwaukee Author of Echoes of Stark Park by Freddie Owens

On the next episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Freddie Owens to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios for part one of a powerful two-part series that explores his life, legacy, and the journey that shaped him.Freddie grew up in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, the oldest of ten brothers and sisters, in a household filled with love, uncertainty, and at times, chaos. Raised in a city marked by both opportunity and challenge, Freddie found structure, safety, and purpose through sports and activities sponsored by Milwaukee Public Schools. Much of his childhood unfolded at Stark Park—a place that became far more than just a neighborhood park. During long summer days, Stark Park was where Freddie and his friends gathered, competed, learned, and dreamed. It was also where he began to hone the basketball skills that would change his life.Those hours on the court carried him to Milwaukee Washington High School, where he followed in the footsteps of his parents, both former players. Freddie would go on to help lead Washington to two state championship appearances, earning recognition as one of the city’s top players. His talent and work ethic caught the attention of the University of Wisconsin, where he earned a scholarship and joined the Badgers men’s basketball program.At Wisconsin, Freddie became part of three Big Ten championship teams and etched his name into Badger history with “The Shot”—the game-winning basket against Tulsa in the NCAA Tournament that sent Wisconsin to the Sweet 16.In this episode, Freddie reflects on his upbringing, the lessons learned at Stark Park, and the foundation that shaped his resilience. We also preview his upcoming memoir, Echoes of Stark Park: Lessons on Resilience, Growth, and the Journey to Legacy, set for release in February 2026.