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EP186 - Beyond the Game: Leadership Lessons from the NFL with Ashley Smith
Season 4 · Episode 186

EP186 - Beyond the Game: Leadership Lessons from the NFL with Ashley Smith

In this episode of The Impact Driven Leader, Tyler Dickerhoof sits down with Ashley Smith, Manager of Player Engagement at the NFL, to discuss leadership, personal growth, and athlete development.

The Tyler Dickerhoof Show

January 29, 202555m 38s

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Show Notes

In this episode of The Impact Driven Leader, Tyler Dickerhoof sits down with Ashley Smith, Manager of Player Engagement at the NFL, to discuss leadership, personal growth, and athlete development.


Ashley shares how working with Pat Summitt shaped her leadership, the challenges athletes face in navigating identity and entitlement, and the role of coaches, parents, and mentors in shaping future champions. She also talks about gender inclusivity in the NFL, building confidence without overcompensation, and the mindset needed to thrive in any environment.


Packed with insights on resilience, leadership, and growth, this episode is a must-listen for athletes, leaders, and anyone striving to make an impact.


Follow Ashely:

https://www.linkedin.com/in/elizabeth-ashley-smith?

https://www.instagram.com/iameashleysmith

https://x.com/iameashleysmith


Impact Driven Leader Podcast

https://www.youtube.com/@impactdrivenleader

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Tyler is on:

https://www.tylerdickerhoof.com/

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What We Discussed: 

00:00 Intro

01:52 Experiences and lessons

04:36 Navigating change in the NFL

06:16 Solving the identity challenge

09:58 Incubator or incinerator?

11:44 Thriving in a work environment 

13:40 NFL: Diverse team personalities 

18:16 NFL: Personal and professional experience

20:47 Leveraging your experience

23:09 Gender inclusivity

25:05 Understanding your value

27:21 NFL calendar: Busiest time of the year

29:06 Transformative testimonies

30:28 From football to real life

32:21 Lessons Learned 

34:40 Leadership, Collaboration & Accountability 

36:25 Support & Care

40:44 Impact: Grassroots Development

50:36 Advice For The Dreamers

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