Ball Talk w/ Boyd

Most people only see the highlights of a game day or think working in sports means being a coach or athlete. But what if the real game is behind the scenes? In this episode, Nishant shares how he transitioned from high school football stats tracker in Texas to a key player in NFL training camps and game-day operations—without ever stepping on the field as a player. His journey reveals the hidden pathways, the scale of sports events, and the skills that keep the sports industry running smoothly. You'll discover how Nishant's early passion for basketball and football fueled a career in sports marketing, event coordination, and NFL operations. We break down the incredible scale of NFL training camps, the logistics of game-day fan experiences, and the legendary Oregon-Nike connection that fueled innovation in sports apparel. Nishant offers inside stories from the Manning Passing Academy to Chicago Bears training camp—showcasing the importance of networking, long-term planning, and embracing roles others overlook. This episode is a masterclass for aspiring sports professionals craving real-world insight and practical advice. Whether you're interested in sports marketing, event management, or building relationships in the sports universe, Nishant's story encourages you to see every role as an opportunity—no matter how small it seems. His perspective highlights that dedication, collaboration, and a growth mindset are the true winners in sports careers. Don’t miss this inspiring deep dive into the unseen side of sports—perfect for students, young professionals, or anyone eager to find their place in the game beyond the spotlight. If you want to turn your passion into a thriving career, this episode is your playbook.Guest Credibility:Nishant is a former sports management student at Oregon, now working with the Chicago Bears in events. His story illustrates how curiosity, hustle, and relationship-building open doors in the sports industry.

Join us for an inspiring conversation with Killeen Mullen, a dynamic leader in the sports industry with experience in professional hockey, NASCAR, the NBA, and the NFL with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. She currently serves as the associate vice president of global events for the NBA. If you're aiming for a career in sports, this episode is your ticket to success. Killeen shares her journey from teaching tennis at Florida's IMG Academy to building departments for the Tampa Bay Lightning. She reveals hidden opportunities beyond coaching and ticket sales, offering insights on managing international events and fostering team culture. Learn how authenticity and networking can propel your career, and discover the impact of community initiatives like Basketball Without Borders. Whether you're a student or a young professional, this episode will motivate you to pursue your passion in sports. Perfect for aspiring sports executives and event planners, this conversation is filled with actionable strategies and inspiring stories. Get ready to be inspired and take your next step in the sports world.

Join me as we team up with former NCAA offensive lineman Jalen Cox to dive into the upcoming NFL draft. Together, we'll explore our favorite prospects, discuss players we might be lower on, and delve into the mindset of NFL teams during the drafting process. Whether you're curious about the strategic decisions behind draft picks or eager to learn about the next big stars, this episode offers a unique blend of expert analysis and personal insights. Tune in for a fresh perspective on what it takes to succeed in the NFL draft, and who we have our eyes on!

Most aspiring sports professionals overlook one of the most powerful tools for breaking into the industry: relationships. Brandon Leung’s journey from UC student to NFL intern to Analyst with UC shows how authenticity, initiative, and networking open doors that applications alone can’t — and why understanding the behind-the-scenes work in football can turn a passion into a career. In this episode, Brandon shares how his love for football and relentless curiosity led him from studying business analytics at UC to working with the Cincinnati Bearcats, the NFL’s Cincinnati Bengals, and beyond. He reveals the lessons learned from high-pressure environments like the NFL sideline, emphasizing the importance of taking initiative and being versatile in a fast-paced world where “not for long” is the mantra. Whether it’s filming a quarterback’s release or hosting top recruits, Brandon’s stories demonstrate how to stand out by doing the little things that make a big difference. You’ll discover concrete strategies for breaking into sports—starting with high school jobs, leveraging industry relationships, and making the most of every opportunity. Brandon breaks down how NIL, coaching transitions, and the NFL culture shape his approach to recruiting, scouting, and personal growth. His insights empower anyone dreaming of a behind-the-scenes role, showing that success isn’t just about talent, but about connecting with people and continuously learning.This episode is perfect for college students, high school athletes, and anyone eager to understand the real work behind sports teams. Brandon’s journey proves that your network can be your greatest asset, and with the right mindset, your dream job in sports is within reach. Don't miss the insider tips to elevate your career and the mindset shift that turns passion into profession.Whether you’re aiming for the NFL, college athletics, or just love football’s art and science, this conversation gives you a blueprint to stand out in a competitive industry. Get inspired, get connected, and learn how to make your mark behind the scenes of your favorite sports.Brandon Leung is a personnel recruiting analyst for the Cincinnati Bearcats and has interned with the Cincinnati Bengals, known for his hands-on experience in NFL scouting and college recruiting.