S2 Ep 37 - Leadership, Mentoring & Life Pivots by Jeremy Payne

On this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791, I welcome Jeremy Payne to the Buck & Honey’s remote studios. Jeremy is the Owner and Founder of My Black Carrot LLC Mentoring Hub, Co-Founder of the Black Platteville Community Network, and a Mental Health Service Provider with Comprehensive Community Services in Dane County through Orchestra X Agency. His journey is a powerful story of resilience, leadership, and navigating life’s unexpected identity shifts.After a standout high school career as a student-athlete, Jeremy set his sights on continuing his football journey at the University of Southern Illinois, where he planned to walk on to the team. However, a coaching change altered that path, and Jeremy was not selected—an experience that deeply impacted his confidence and sense of identity. Facing the weight of expectations from his hometown, he was forced to reassess his direction.Determined to find a new path, Jeremy made the bold decision to attend the University of Wisconsin–Platteville sight unseen. There, he found renewed purpose, competing in both football and track while stepping into leadership roles that would shape his future. His passion for mentorship emerged as he began working closely with younger students, guiding them through their own transitions.Following graduation, Jeremy remained in the Platteville area, supporting students at both the University of Wisconsin–Platteville and the University of Dubuque—helping ensure they felt safe, supported, and connected to campus resources.Jeremy also opens up about key identity pivots that shaped his personal growth. From the disappointment of missed athletic opportunities, to navigating racial tensions and uncertainty during the COVID-19 pandemic, to reconnecting with childhood friends as life paths diverged—each moment challenged him to grow and adapt.Today, Jeremy uses those experiences to help others manage anxiety, build confidence, and embrace change. His story is a reminder that setbacks don’t define you—how you respond to them does. You won't want to miss this episode of Survive & Thrive 8791. CAN'T WAIT!!!