Episode #6: In this episode of the Winning Edge Podcast, Leonard Wheeler discusses the critical role of mentorship in the lives of young NFL players, particularly during the intense experience of the NFL Combine. He emphasizes that success in football is not solely based on physical abilities but also on character, mindset, and the wisdom passed down from mentors. Wheeler shares insights on what it means to be a mentor, the pressures faced by players at the Combine, and the importance of emotional intelligence and cognitive testing in player evaluation. He encourages listeners to take action and become mentors in their own lives, highlighting the profound impact that guidance and support can have on the next generation.

Chapters:

00:00 The Importance of Mentorship in Football
04:02 Defining the Role of a Mentor
06:51 Navigating the NFL Combine Experience
10:09 The Mental and Emotional Aspects of the Combine
13:13 Beyond Physical Skills: Cognitive Testing at the Combine
15:49 Preparing for Life Beyond the NFL
18:56 The Vulnerability of Players and the Pressure of the Combine
21:44 The Journey After the Combine
24:44 The Call to Mentor Others
27:40 The Winning Edge YouTube Outtro.mp4

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Episode #5: In this episode of The Winning Edge, Leonard Wheeler explores critical questions that challenge listeners to reflect on their motivations, barriers, and leadership styles. He emphasizes the importance of understanding one's driving force, recognizing obstacles to growth, and the impact of past experiences on present mindsets. Wheeler also discusses the significance of reputation, purpose, and the difference between wants and needs, while encouraging listeners to know when to pivot in their lives. The conversation culminates in a reflection on the legacy one leaves behind, highlighting the value of mentorship and character over mere results.

Takeaways:

Self-reflection is essential for personal growth.
Understanding what drives you can lead to better decisions.
Identifying barriers is the first step to overcoming them.
Past experiences shape our current mindset and actions.
Your reputation is built by your actions, not words.
Knowing your purpose can guide your life choices.
Distinguishing between wants and needs is crucial for fulfillment.
Recognizing when to pivot can prevent stagnation.
Leadership style significantly impacts team culture.
The legacy you leave is defined by your character and actions.

Chapters:

00:00 Understanding Your Driving Force
03:49 Identifying Barriers to Growth
07:08 The Impact of Your Past on Present Mindset
09:59 Recognizing Your Reputation
12:55 Discovering Your Purpose
16:12 Distinguishing Wants from Needs
18:56 Knowing When to Pivot
21:51 Understanding Your Leadership Style
25:02 Leaving a Lasting Legacy

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Episode #4: In this conversation, Leonard Wheeler delves into the concept of emotional intelligence, focusing on its key components: empathy, social skills, self-awareness, and self-regulation. He emphasizes the importance of understanding and managing one's emotions while also being attuned to the emotions of others. The discussion highlights the significance of empathy in building connections, the role of effective communication in social skills, and the ethical considerations in applying emotional intelligence. Wheeler encourages listeners to embrace self-awareness, practice thoughtful self-regulation, and engage genuinely with others to foster meaningful relationships.

Chapters:

00:00 Understanding Emotional Intelligence
07:26 Developing Social Skills
12:50 Pitfalls of Emotional Intelligence Misuse
19:35 The Winning Edge YouTube Outtro.mp4

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Episode #3: In this conversation, Leonard Wheeler delves into the concept of emotional intelligence (EQ), emphasizing its importance in recognizing, understanding, and managing both our own emotions and those of others. He discusses the foundational elements of EQ, including self-awareness, self-regulation, motivation, and empathy, and how these components contribute to effective communication and relationships. Wheeler highlights the significance of being aware of our emotional states and the impact they have on our interactions, urging listeners to cultivate curiosity and understanding in their relationships.

Chapters:

00:00 Understanding Emotional Intelligence
14:00 Mastering Self-Awareness and Self-Regulation
23:03 The Role of Motivation and Empathy

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Episode #2: In this conversation, Leonard Wheeler shares his experiences at the Super Bowl, emphasizing the importance of community service, the strong brotherhood among NFL players, and the need to stay hungry for success. He discusses how humility and parenting play crucial roles in shaping values and character, and he reflects on memorable celebrity encounters during the event. The dialogue highlights the significance of making oneself available for opportunities and the impact of serving others.

Chapters:

00:00 The NFL Brotherhood: A Unique Community
10:58 Staying Hungry: Motivation and Purpose
21:45 The Importance of Humility and Service
28:21 Raising Humble and Grounded Children
30:43 Memorable Encounters with Legends
34:32 Respecting the Process
39:03 The Birth of a Podcast Name
41:15 The Importance of Swagger
44:35 Reflections on the Super Bowl Experience
47:34 Making Yourself Available for Success

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Episode #1: In this engaging conversation, Kimberly Lovi interviews Leonard Wheeler about his new podcast, The Winning Edge. They discuss the unique perspectives that come from Leonard's experiences as an NFL athlete and entrepreneur, touching on themes of personal growth, overcoming failure, and the importance of trust and leadership. The conversation also delves into teamwork, emotional intelligence, and the necessity of structure and discipline in achieving success. Leonard shares valuable insights and practical advice for listeners looking to improve their lives and careers. In this engaging conversation, Leonard Wheeler and Kimberly Lovi explore the themes of accountability, personal struggles, fatherhood, sacrifice, entrepreneurship, and health. Leonard shares his journey of overcoming challenges, the importance of being accountable to oneself and others, and how these experiences shape his role as a father. They discuss the significance of sacrifices made in life and how they can lead to greater rewards. The conversation also delves into Leonard's transition from professional athlete to entrepreneur and public speaker, offering insights on launching a speaking career and the importance of health and wellness.

Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Setting the Stage
02:29 Unique Perspectives: Sports and Life
06:17 The Importance of Trust and Leadership
10:46 Teamwork and Collaboration
14:18 Structure and Discipline for Success
21:03 The Power of Accountability
26:30 Fatherhood and Family Values
31:36 Overcoming Personal Struggles
32:43 Transitioning to Entrepreneurship
38:45 Launching a Speaking Career

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Trailer: Welcome to The Winning Edge — the podcast where champions are built, and legacies are made. I'm Leonard Wheeler, former NFL player turned entrepreneur of 24 years and co-Executive Director of the NFL Legends Community. After years on the field, I've learned that the real game starts when the stadium lights go out. This show is your all-access pass to the mindset, strategies, and leadership lessons that fuel success beyond sports. Each week, we'll dive into what it truly takes to win in business, leadership, and life. We’ll discuss how elite athletes, game-changing entrepreneurs, and industry leaders turn discipline into dominance and setbacks into comebacks. Whether you're an athlete transitioning into your next chapter or a high-performer ready to level up, this podcast will give you the playbook to own your future.
It's time to redefine winning, together.

Join me every Tuesday - available everywhere you get your podcast. You can also follow me on Instagram, TikTok, X, and LinkedIn, linked below. Subscribe now and let's build your legacy. The next play is yours.

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