STREETZ94.5 From Hardwood to Boardroom – Empowering Mental Health & Entrepreneurship
On May 1st, a dynamic panel brought together professional athletes, mental-health advocates, and community leaders to explore the journey from sports stardom to business success. Hosted by the CEDA Foundation, the discussion tackled wellness, mental awareness, and entrepreneurship—revealing the strategies that underpin lasting personal and professional growth.
Panel Overview
The hour-long conversation dove into four core themes:
Health & Wellness – How athletes maintain peak performance on and off the court
Mental Awareness – Strategies for navigating identity shifts after retirement
Entrepreneurship – Building businesses with the discipline honed in sports
Community Impact – Empowering HBCU students and beyond through education
Moderated by J Smoke, the panel featured two-time NBA champion Shannon Brown, motivational speaker Stevie Baggs Jr. and Alexia Adams (Reality Table), and leading voices from the CEDA Foundation.
Mental Health & Transition: Shannon Brown’s Journey
“Mental health is as critical as physical health—especially when your uniform changes from jersey to suit.”
At 01:24, Shannon Brown shared his excitement for the event and stressed that the end of a sports career doesn’t have to be the end of one’s purpose. He highlighted the mental challenges athletes face—loss of routine, public attention, and identity—and underscored the importance of seeking support, therapy, and peer networks to navigate those shifts.
Empowerment Through Education: Stevie Baggs Jr. & the CAD Foundation
Speaking at 01:48, Stevie Baggs Jr. championed the CAD Foundation’s mission to uplift HBCU students. He credited their tour and outreach programs with delivering “raw truths” about business, money management, and self-belief. By sharing first-hand experiences, he aims to instill confidence and practical skills that no textbook can teach.
Knowledge Is True Power
At 02:44, the panel agreed:
“Money and formal education can open doors, but it’s knowledge—applied wisdom—that truly transforms lives.”
They challenged attendees to redefine power as the ability to make informed choices, change habits, and uplift others.
CEDA Foundation: 21 Years of Year-Round Engagement
For over two decades, the CEDA Foundation has gone beyond seasonal drives. As noted at 03:09, their commitment to continuous community education ensures resources are available long after holiday events. By fostering partnerships with local schools, businesses, and nonprofits, CEDA cultivates sustainable change.
🏀 Pro-Athlete Insights on Entrepreneurship
From 04:05, the conversation shifted to real-world lessons:
Leveraging teamwork and leadership skills learned on the court
Adapting to risk and uncertainty in startups
Building authentic brands that resonate with diverse audiences
These candid reflections offered a blueprint for athletes—and anyone—seeking to launch a venture.
Amplifying Voices: Alexia Adams & Open Conversation
At 05:23, Alexia Adams described her podcast as a “safe space for unfiltered dialogue.” Her transition—from athlete to reality-TV personality to entrepreneur—underscores the power of adaptability and self-driven growth (06:20). She reminded listeners that change begins internally:
“Habits shape our destiny. Transform your habits, and you transform your world.” (06:46)
Roots of Change: Self-Discovery & Accountability
Closing at 07:40, the panel urged especially Black and melanated individuals to embrace self-reflection. By owning our stories and actions, we unlock the potential for collective uplift.
🔗 Get Involved & Stay Connected
Watch the full panel on Di-VerZe TV
Listen to Alexia Adams’ podcast for extended interviews
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