NIL Spotlight

In this episode, we explore the evolving landscape of youth sports, NIL, and athlete representation with industry experts Chris Fair and Justin Brashear. They share insights on early talent identification, legal protections, the importance of education, and building a sustainable career in sports beyond the field.About Chris-Chris is a certified NFLPA Contract Advisor with a comprehensive background in business and law. He earned his undergraduate and MBA degrees from Bentley University before completing his law degree at Pace University School of Law. Chris passed the New York State Bar and brings legal expertise, strategic thinking, and contract knowledge directly into athlete representation.About Justin-Justin is a sports attorney and certified NFLPA Contract Advisor with firsthand experience as a former professional athlete. His background in both law and elite athletics allows him to guide athletes and their families through critical decisions involving contracts, NIL opportunities, and career strategy.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Trajectory Sports and Founders' Backgrounds12:25 Navigating NIL and Recruiting Process24:37 The Role of Family in Athlete Representation28:19 Insurance and Financial Protections for Athletes30:05 Understanding Contracts and Financial Structures33:32 The Role of Social Media in Athlete Branding37:35 Advice for Parents and Student Athletes43:18 Opportunities Beyond Football in NIL46:51 Building a Business Through NIL GameplanTrajectory SportsChris Fair on InstagramJustin Brashear on LinkedIn Brian Davidson on LinkedinGet Started with NILIf you're navigating NIL or supporting a student-athlete, understanding branding and strategy early can make a major difference in long-term success. Make sure to get started for free at nilgameplan.com

Discover how Darius Willis, former college athlete and founder of Scout Sync, is transforming the recruiting landscape by leveraging global exposure and technology. This episode delves into the realities of athlete recruitment, NIL's evolution, and innovative solutions for underserved athletes.About DariusDarius Willis is a former Under Armour All-American, D1 running back at Indiana University, and NFL tryout veteran who went on to coach the Swiss National Football Team as Offensive Coordinator. Over a 14-year coaching career spanning high school through international play, he's helped more than 1,000 athletes secure scholarships, contracts, and draft placements — and that experience exposed a broken recruiting system that leaves talented players behind every day. It's what drove him to found ScoutSync, an AI-powered platform connecting athletes with opportunities worldwide, and to build dariuswillis.com, where he offers training, recruiting consulting, and sports tech advisory services. A 2026 Mira Awards Finalist for Rising Entrepreneur of the Year and 2025 High School Football Hall of Fame inductee, Darius is one of the few people in sports who has competed, coached, recruited, and built the technology to change how it all works.Timestamps00:00 - Darius Willis’ background: From Indiana football star to founder01:12 - Early recruiting process: Traveling, letters, and family pride02:09 - Benefits of early exposure and competitive confidence03:00 - First Under Armour All-American Bowl experience and lessons learned04:23 - Misunderstandings about the current recruiting landscape05:33 - How Scout Sync bridges athlete exposure gaps locally and globally06:39 - Common mistakes athletes make: Lack of proactivity in recruitment08:13 - Unique features of Scout Sync’s transparent, ecosystem-driven platform09:51 - The evolving NIL landscape at high school and college levels11:04 - The effect of NIL on opportunities, pressure, and family guidance12:15 - Building social media presence: Focus and strategy for young athletes13:24 - Overlooked athletes: International and non-revenue sport players14:22 - How Scout Sync supports athletes worldwide regardless of sport15:30 - Lessons learned in entrepreneurship from sports to tech16:28 - Future outlook: Structure, regulation, and inclusion in NIL and recruitment17:46 - International athletes' increasing access to NIL opportunities18:04 - Connecting with Darius: Scout Sync platforms and future initiativesConnect with Darius Scout SyncDarius Willis on LinkedInFollow Brian DavidsonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianrdavidson/Get Started with NILIf you're navigating NIL or supporting a student-athlete, understanding branding and strategy early can make a major difference in long-term success. Make sure to get started for free at nilgameplan.com

In this in-depth interview, Mitch Gilfillan shares his unique journey from college athlete to coach and attorney, providing expert insights into NIL, college sports law, and athlete branding. Discover how recent changes in college athletics impact athletes, families, and universities, and learn practical advice for navigating this evolving landscape.About Mitch: Mitch Gilfillan is a nationally recognized attorney and trusted voice in college sports and NIL law. A former Division I basketball player who competed in the NCAA March Madness Tournament, Mitch combines firsthand athletic experience with his legal work advising athletes, families, universities, and organizations on NIL opportunities, athlete branding, endorsement agreements, and the evolving landscape of college athletics.As a partner at Quinn Johnston, Mitch is a sought-after speaker on the intersection of sports and law, presenting at major universities, national conferences, and the NCAA Final Four. He has also consulted for the NBA Players Association and has been featured by ESPN, CBS, Sports Illustrated, and the New York Post for his expertise in college basketball and NIL-related issues. Timestamps 00:00 Introduction to Mitch Gilfillan and his background 01:15 Mitch's journey as a college athlete and recruiting story 02:07 Transition from playing to coaching in college basketball 02:32 Pursuing law and the intersection with sports 03:11 The emergence of NIL and its origins 04:06 How Mitch's experience shapes his advice to athletes 05:20 The long-term perspective on college sports decisions 07:04 The rapid evolution of NIL since 2021 09:14 Legal advice for high-end NIL deals and tax considerations 12:13 Difference between revenue share and true NIL endorsement 15:06 Opportunities for non-revenue sports athletes 15:54 Building athlete branding from a young age 17:36 Legal considerations for starting an LLC early 19:06 Mitch's role with the NBA and athlete education 21:26 Lessons learned from advising top athletes 22:53 Where to find Mitch Gilfillan online Resources Mitch Gilfillan on LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin.com/in/mitchgilfillan/ Gilfillan on Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/gilfillin21/Follow Brian DavidsonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianrdavidson/Get Started with NILIf you're navigating NIL or supporting a student-athlete, understanding branding and strategy early can make a major difference in long-term success. Make sure to get started for free at nilgameplan.com

In this episode, Jeremy Evans, founder of California Sports Lawyer, dives into the complexities and legal nuances surrounding Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) rights, college sports structure, and the evolving legislation across states. If you're interested in how legal, educational, and industry shifts are shaping sports, this conversation is essential listening. Timestamps(00:02) Jeremy Evans’ background and how he got into sports law(01:21) Transition from traditional legal careers to sports and entertainment law(02:44) The influence of baseball arbitration competitions on Jeremy’s passion for sports law(04:07) The importance of entrepreneurs being naive and learning as they go(06:40) What holistic representation for athletes should include(07:01) When families should start building their NIL team(09:09) Legal considerations for high school athletes involved in NIL(10:20) Key clauses in NIL agreements: payment, obligations, duration(12:23) How state laws are evolving and their implications(14:56) Structural issues in college sports: transfer portal, athletic payments, and policy reforms(17:36) NIL’s impact on non-revenue sports and university funding(19:12) State legislation responses and future legislative directions(20:47) The implications of NIL creeping into high school sports(23:28) The future of NCAA regulation and potential for organized oversightConnect with Jeremy Evans:California Sports Lawyer WebsiteFollow Brian DavidsonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianrdavidson/Get Started with NILIf you're navigating NIL or supporting a student-athlete, understanding branding and strategy early can make a major difference in long-term success. Make sure to get started for free at nilgameplan.com

In this episode of NIL Spotlight, Tom Burnett shares his journey through college athletics, the seismic shifts brought by NIL, and practical advice for student athletes and families navigating this complex landscape. Discover how NIL and revenue sharing are transforming recruiting, legal considerations, and the importance of financial literacy.Timestamps00:00 The Journey into College Athletics03:03 The Impact of NIL on College Sports05:59 Navigating State-Specific Laws and Regulations08:39 The Role of Agents in NIL11:20 Recruiting in the Age of NIL14:21 Financial Literacy for Student Athletes16:58 The Future of College Athletics19:40 Final Thoughts and Resources for FamiliesAbout Tom Burnett-Tom Burnett is a veteran collegiate athletics leader and former Southland Conference commissioner, where he served for nearly two decades as the league’s longest-tenured leader. He now continues to support the conference as a senior consultant, bringing more than 30 years of experience in athletic administration. Throughout his career, he has played key roles on numerous NCAA committees, including serving as chair of the NCAA Division I Men’s Basketball Committee overseeing March Madness. Burnett is widely recognized for expanding media exposure, strengthening conference operations, and leaving a lasting impact on college athletics at both the conference and national levels.Resources-Tom Burnett's Website - https://www.tomburnett.comNIL for Texas Parents Book - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0XXXXXXSecond Book by Tom Burnett - https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0XXXXXXWebsite - https://www.tomburnett.comFollow Brian DavidsonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianrdavidson/Get Started with NILIf you're navigating NIL or supporting a student-athlete, understanding branding and strategy early can make a major difference in long-term success. Make sure to get started for free at nilgameplan.com

In this episode, Chris Krause, founder of NCSA College Recruiting and former Vanderbilt football player, shares how he’s helped reshape the path for student-athletes pursuing college opportunities. He breaks down recruiting, NIL, social media, leadership, and entrepreneurship, emphasizing family, realism, and responsible decision-making. Chris also reminds athletes that choosing a school isn’t just a four-year decision, but a forty-year one.Timestamps00:00 Introduction to Chris Krause and NCSA01:29 The Family Dynamic in Recruiting05:16 Understanding the Role of Coaches08:51 Common Mistakes in Recruiting10:30 Evolution of College Athletics and NIL13:19 The Impact of Social Media on Athletes19:04 Entrepreneurship and Leadership in Sports24:26 Legacy and Leadership DevelopmentAbout the GuestChris Krause is the founder of NCSA College Recruiting and a former Vanderbilt University football player. He built NCSA into a leading platform connecting student-athletes with college programs, helping hundreds of thousands navigate the recruiting process and unlock opportunities through sports.Resources & LinksNCSA College Recruiting: https://www.ncsasports.org/Athletes Wanted (Book): https://www.amazon.com/Athletes-Wanted-How-Get-College/dp/...Built to Win (Book): https://www.amazon.com/Built-Win-Leadership-Legacy-Transformation/dp/...Chris Krause Leadership Symposium: https://vanderbilt.edu/leadership-symposiumFollow ChrisLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chriskrause/Twitter: https://twitter.com/chriskrauseWebsite: https://chriskrause.com/Follow Brian DavidsonLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianrdavidson/Get Started with NILIf you're navigating NIL or supporting a student-athlete, understanding branding and strategy early can make a major difference in long-term success. Make sure to get started for free at nilgameplan.com

In this episode, Rachel Maeng, a former athlete turned NIL strategist, breaks down how student-athletes can build sustainable personal brands and navigate the evolving NIL landscape. She shares insights on making smarter recruiting decisions, leveraging social media, and creating long-term value in college athletics. Rachel also explores how NIL is changing opportunities across sports and what the future holds for athletes in this new era.Key TakeawaysYour personal brand is a long-term business asset, not just a social media presenceAthletes should start building their brand and online presence earlyNIL opportunities vary widely across sports, with growing potential for women and non-revenue athletesThe transfer portal adds complexity to decision-making and requires strategic planningSchools and collectives are evolving rapidly, creating both opportunities and risksTimestamps00:00 Introduction to Rachel Maeng and her NIL expertise01:10 Rachel’s recruiting journey and athletic background01:56 Transition from athlete to NIL strategist03:07 Evolution of NIL rules and technology04:21 The importance of personal branding06:07 Should athletes form an LLC?06:45 Common social media mistakes10:39 Opportunities for women and Olympic sports13:37 NIL in recruiting conversations15:57 Transfer portal and athlete decision-making19:05 Future trends in NIL and college athletics22:28 Risks of transferring and academic planning26:39 Building brand ecosystems for athletesAbout the GuestRachel Maeng is a former athlete and NIL strategist who helps student-athletes build personal brands, navigate NIL opportunities, and make strategic decisions in college athletics.Resources & LinksRachel Maeng on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/rachel-mengRachel Maeng on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/rachel_maeng/Brian Davidson on LinkedIn:https://www.linkedin.com/in/brianrdavidson/Get Started with NILIf you're navigating NIL or supporting a student-athlete, understanding branding and strategy early can make a major difference in long-term success. Make sure to get started for free at nilgameplan.com

In this episode, Brenden Hill, Assistant Athletic Director at San Diego State University, dives into the rapidly changing world of college athletics. He explores how NIL is reshaping recruiting, shares lessons from his career in sports leadership, and offers perspective on what the future holds for student-athletes navigating this new era.Key TakeawaysNIL has shifted recruiting from relationship-driven to more transactional dynamicsMisinformation is one of the biggest challenges in the NIL spaceSchools are building in-house NIL programs to better support athletesPersonal branding is now essential, starting as early as high schoolNon-revenue sports may see new opportunities through NIL growthTimestamps00:00 Introduction to NIL and Brendan Hill03:10 How recruiting has evolved in the NIL era06:14 Early NIL challenges and building trust09:07 Inside San Diego State’s NIL approach12:12 Supporting athletes day-to-day16:00 Common misconceptions about NIL18:44 Advice for high school athletes21:57 The future of NIL and college sportsAbout the GuestBrendan Hill is the Assistant Athletic Director at San Diego State University, where he focuses on NIL strategy, student-athlete development, and navigating the rapidly evolving landscape of college athletics.Notable Quotes“Misinformation is a major hurdle in NIL.”“Build your personal brand early.”“We had to build a team of experts to navigate NIL.”Resources & LinksNIL Gameplan: https://nilgameplan.comBrendan Hill on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/brendenhill/Get Started with NILIf you're navigating NIL or supporting someone who is, check out NIL Gameplan.Just visit NILGameplan.com to get started for free.

In this episode, professional lacrosse player and former Notre Dame standout Kasey Choma shares how being a Division I athlete shaped her confidence, career path, and identity beyond sports. She highlights the transition out of athletics, the power of relationships and networking, and how athletes can translate key skills into the workplace, while also touching on NIL’s growing impact beyond traditional sports.