Pro Plays Podcast is where athletes meet the tech industry. Hosted by Brenden Dickerson, a former collegiate athlete turned tech professional, this podcast is dedicated to helping athletes navigate the transition from sports to tech careers. Each episode features inspiring stories from athletes who’ve successfully made the switch, along with expert advice on how to leverage the skills honed in sports for success in the tech world. Whether you're looking to explore tech or make your move, Pro Plays Podcast provides the insights and motivation to help you thrive in your new career.
Rod Dye: A Tech Sales Journey with IBM Technology Leader
Account Executive Rod Dye shares his tech sales journey with IBM, discussing time management, networking, and the perks of working in technology in this interview.
4 May 2025
Jeff Ross: Performance Coaching That Builds Champions Beyond the Game
This week I’m sitting down with a Football and Performance Coach who works directly with athletes chasing their pro dreams. From D1 players to future NFL stars, he’s helping them build the mindset, discipline, and physical edge they need to win — on and off the field.
We’re going deep on what it really takes to perform at the highest level, how athletes can maximize their potential, and the lessons that apply far beyond sports. Whether you’re an athlete, coach, or just someone chasing greatness, this conversation is for you.
If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and career tips!
Instagram: mad.academy_
Instagram: @protechplaybook
www.protechplaybook.com (http://www.protechplaybook.com)
27 Apr 2025
Josh Bernadel: Inside the Future of Gaming with Xbox Product Manager
This week on Pro Plays Podcast, I’m sitting down with Josh Bernadel (@joshbernadel (https://www.instagram.com/joshbernadel/)), an Xbox Product Manager at Microsoft!
We’re diving into his path into tech, what it’s like building at one of the world’s leading gaming platforms, and how professionals and former athletes can break into product roles at top tech companies.If you’re ready to take your next step in tech, this episode will be a must-listen.
If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and career tips!
Instagram: @joshbernadel (https://www.instagram.com/joshbernadel/)
Instagram: @protechplaybook
www.protechplaybook.com (http://www.protechplaybook.com)
20 Apr 2025
Steve Eaton: Reimagining Education Through Culture, Tech, and Music
This week on Pro Plays Podcast, I sat down with a special guest—Steve Eaton (@stuntinsteve (https://www.instagram.com/stuntinsteve/)), founder & producer of Lit Learners (@listenlitlearners (https://www.instagram.com/listenlitlearners/)), the game-changing education platform using hip hop to teach kids everything from literacy to life skills!
We'll dive into Steve’s journey, the power of culturally relevant education, and how beats and bars are being used to light up classrooms and young minds alike. If you’re passionate about creativity, impact, and reimagining what learning can look like, you don’t want to miss this one.
If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and career tips!
Instagram: @listenlitlearners
Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfRaBLxszZCorpS9Gk2gFkA (https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCfRaBLxszZCorpS9Gk2gFkA)
Instagram: @protechplaybook
www.protechplaybook.com (http://www.protechplaybook.com)
13 Apr 2025
Dwayne Ham: Redefining the Modern Athlete with Career Counselors, Coaches and Mentors
This week on Pro Plays, we’re getting real.
I’m sitting down with high school counselor, Dwayne Ham (@jaymmyjaym) and former football player—who’s now helping student-athletes navigate way more than just the game.
We are going to talk about:
🏈 The power of coaches and counselors in shaping lives
🧠 Breaking the stigma around mental health
👨🏾🎓How we can better support student-athletes beyond the scoreboard
This episode is a reminder: Mental health is just as IMPORTANT as game plans and scholarships. Let’s change the culture. Let’s support the holistic athlete.
If you’ve ever been impacted by a coach, a counselor, or the game—this one’s for you!
If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and career tips!
Instagram: @talkingbacktotheteacherpodcast
Instagram: @protechplaybook
www.protechplaybook.com (http://www.protechplaybook.com)
6 Apr 2025
Jamal Luke: Finding your WHY with Ohio State National Champion
Ohio, this one’s for you! Our next Pro Plays guest knows what it takes to succeed at every level.
From winning a national championship with THE Ohio State Buckeyes, Jamal Luke (@jlukeydc) is dominating the business game as an investor, entrepreneur, and motivational speaker.
Don’t miss this episode as we break down the mindset, moves, and motivation that turned a champion on the field into a leader in business.
If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and career tips!
Instagram: @protechplaybook
www.protechplaybook.com (http://www.protechplaybook.com)
30 Mar 2025
Maurice Womack: Building the Future of STEM with Oasis STEM’s Founder
This week on Pro Plays, l’m sitting down with Maurice Womack (@themadfounder), Founder of Oasis STEM. This organization is on a mission to build inclusive, equitable access to STEM careers for the next generation!
You’ll learn:
🌎 How Oasis STEM is breaking barriers and opening doors in diverse communities
🌐 Why inclusive STEM ecosystems are critical for the future of innovation
💻 The game-changing role of tech in shaping modern STEM careers
➡️ If you care about equity, tech, education, or simply creating real impact.. this episode is a must-listen!
Oasis STEM: https://www.oasismatters.com (https://www.oasismatters.com)
If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and career tips!
Instagram: @protechplaybook
www.protechplaybook.com (http://www.protechplaybook.com)
23 Mar 2025
Jesseca Hudson-Turpin: How a Former D1 Track Star Made the Jump with ProTechPlaybook
This week on Pro Plays Podcast, I sat down with Jesseca Hudson-Turpin (@yeaahhh_jess), a former D1 Track Star and Team Captain who shared her incredible transition from collegiate athletics to a thriving tech career!
She walked us through her journey of balancing life as a student-athlete while pursuing a Computer Science degree, and how she turned that discipline into a competitive edge in the tech space.
We talked about her experience working with ProTechPlaybook, how it helped her define her career goals, elevate her personal brand, and ultimately secure her new role at Sherwin-Williams in tech!
✅ Key Takeaways:
💪🏾 Your athletic background is your superpower. The discipline, leadership, and time management skills developed in sports directly translate to success in tech.
😎 Clarity is everything. Working with a coach or mentor can help you define your path and stand out in a crowded job market.
👩🏾💻Tech welcomes diverse backgrounds. You don’t need to follow a traditional route—your unique story is your advantage.
💯 Preparation opens doors. A polished resume, strong interview game, and networking effectively can be the difference between getting overlooked and getting hired.
Whether you’re a student-athlete, recent grad, or someone navigating a career pivot, this episode is packed with gems to help you move forward with confidence.
If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and career tips!
Instagram: @protechplaybook
www.protechplaybook.com (http://www.protechplaybook.com)
16 Mar 2025
Benjamin Phillips: From Pro Basketball to PhD in AI - A Journey of Transformation
In this episode, we chat with Benjamin Phillips (@_bp3), a former professional basketball player who has successfully transitioned into the tech world. Now pursuing a PhD in Artificial Intelligence, he shares his journey from the basketball court to tech innovation. As the author of Lone Wolf Mentality and a Senior Consultant at The Business Hospital, he offers insights on personal growth, perseverance, and business success!
Key Takeaways:
🏀 Mindset Shift: How the discipline from sports helps in navigating the tech world.
🤖 PhD Journey: The challenges and rewards of pursuing a PhD in AI after a career in basketball.
🐺 Lone Wolf Mentality: Embracing personal growth and overcoming obstacles to achieve success.
If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and career tips!
Instagram: @protechplaybook
www.protechplaybook.com (http://www.protechplaybook.com)
8 Mar 2025
Christian Pruitt: Maximizing Peak Performance with Health & Tech Insights from a Cenegenics Coach
This week, we sat down with Christian Pruitt (@_cpfitness), Performance Health Coach at Cenegenics to explore how tech is revolutionizing health, longevity, and peak performance. Whether you’re an athlete, executive, or just looking to optimize your health, this episode is packed with game-changing insights!
🔑 Key Takeaways:
✅ How data is personalizing health & performance plans
✅ The role of mobile tech in tracking recovery & longevity
✅ How tech is opening new doors in health & wellness coaching
If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and career tips!
Instagram: @protechplaybook
www.protechplaybook.com (http://www.protechplaybook.com)
1 Mar 2025
Josh Futch: Unlocking the Power of Data in FinTech with CIBC's Data & Governance Officer
Join me as I sit down with @joshfutch25, Data & Governance Officer at CIBC Bank, to break down the power of data in tech and how strong governance drives success in major financial institutions!
We'll cover:
✅ How data shapes the future of banking
✅ The importance of governance in tech roles
✅ Career advice for breaking into the FinTech industry
If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and career tips!
Instagram: @protechplaybook
www.protechplaybook.com (http://www.protechplaybook.com)
16 Feb 2025
Lyle Burns: Behind the Brand with Product Marketing Consultant at Fluvio
This week, I'm sitting down with Lyle Burns (@by_lyeb), Product Marketing Consultant at Fluvio to dive into the world of product marketing! We'll break down:
🔥 What product marketing really is
🎯 How to transition into this field
💡 Key skills & career strategies for success
💼 Career advice for athletes & professionals looking to pivot
If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and career tips!
Instagram: @protechplaybook
www.protechplaybook.com (http://www.protechplaybook.com)
12 Feb 2025
Josh Ionesi: Building Your Personal Brand with Marketing Solutions Expert at LinkedIn
This week, we’re sitting down with Josh Ionesi (@jionesi) who made his way to LinkedIn—breaking into tech, building a career, and navigating one of the biggest platforms for professionals. We’ll cover:
✅ How to make LinkedIn a game-changer for your career
✅ Insider strategies to build powerful connections and profile optimizations to stand out
✅ The impact of tech on LinkedIn and the job market
✅ Advice for aspiring professionals looking to break into tech
If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and career tips!
Instagram: @protechplaybook
www.protechplaybook.com (http://www.protechplaybook.com)
12 Feb 2025
Gabe Henry: How Google’s Security Sales Specialist Wins in a Lucrative Industry
In this episode, we’re chatting with Gabe Henry (@gabe.henry), Security Sales Specialist at Google to give you an inside look at life in tech!
Here’s what we’ll talk about:
👉🏾 How he got started and made it to Google.
👉🏾 What his day-to-day looks like.
👉🏾 What a Security Sales Specialist does and why it’s important.
👉🏾 Advice to help you break into tech or grow your career.
If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and career tips!
Instagram: @protechplaybook
www.protechplaybook.com (http://www.protechplaybook.com)
12 Feb 2025
Bennett Heyn: A Deep Dive with Adobe’s Search Engine Analyst and AI Startup Co-Founder
This week on Pro Plays Podcast, we are diving into an exciting chat with Bennett Heyn (@bennett.heyn), a Search Engine Analyst at Adobe and Co-Founder of Backlinker AI, a groundbreaking AI-powered startup!
We’re diving into:
👉🏾 His journey from tech enthusiast to industry leader
👉🏾 The challenges and rewards of entrepreneurship
👉🏾 How AI is shaping the future of search
👉🏾 Career advice for aspiring tech pros looking to break into the field
If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and career tips!
Instagram: @protechplaybook
www.protechplaybook.com
12 Feb 2025
Mitch Ocran: Spotify's Media Manager Journey to Tech and Why Relationships Matter
In this episode of Pro Plays Podcast, I chat with Mitch Ocran (@mitchocran), Media Manager at Spotify, about his unique journey from the media world to the tech industry. We dive into:
🎬 How skills from media and entertainment can translate into a successful tech career
🌍 The opportunities Spotify offers for individuals with diverse backgrounds
🧠 The mindset and strategies needed to make a career shift into tech
💡 Valuable insights and lessons Mitch learned along the way
If you’re enjoying the show, don’t forget to like, subscribe, and stay tuned for more inspiring stories and career tips!
Instagram: @protechplaybook
www.protechplaybook.com (http://www.protechplaybook.com)
12 Feb 2025
Welcome to Pro Plays Podcast
In this trailer episode, I’m giving you a sneak peek into what this podcast is all about. As a former athlete who transitioned into the tech world, I know how challenging it can be to figure out your next steps. That’s why I created the Pro Plays Podcast—to share stories, advice, and strategies that’ll help athletes make the leap into tech with confidence.
Each episode will feature interviews with athletes who’ve successfully moved into tech careers, along with experts offering valuable insights on navigating the industry. Whether you’re just curious or ready to take the plunge into tech, this podcast is your resource for all things career transition.
Tune in to hear how you can use the skills you’ve developed in sports to thrive in the tech world!
Instagram: @protechplaybook
www.protechplaybook.com (http://www.protechplaybook.com)
Podcast Authority Score: 9 / 100
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