University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball Zya Vann’s faith-driven journey transforming purpose into leadership, impact, and hope.   In this episode of Purpose NIL, host James M. Rink engages with Zya Vann, a guard from the University of Oklahoma's women's basketball program, as she explores her life's purpose and how it intertwines with her academic and athletic pursuits. Joined by Dr. Kathleen Shea Smith, they delve into career planning, personal values, and the importance of mentorship in navigating life's challenges. Zya shares her journey of self-discovery, the impact of her grandfather's passing, and her aspirations in sports and mental health, while Dr. Kathleen provides valuable insights on aligning one's purpose with career goals. takeaways Zya Vann emphasizes the importance of being a positive light for others. Her purpose statement focuses on uplifting marginalized groups through strength and gratitude. Zya reflects on her relationship with God as a source of strength during tough times. She aims to bring joy and happiness to her friends and family. Zya is actively working on building her personal brand for NIL opportunities. She acknowledges the struggle of staying motivated in her academic work. Zya expresses a desire to play in the WNBA and pursue a career in therapy. Dr. Kathleen highlights the significance of values, strengths, and interests in career planning. Zya's journey illustrates the importance of mentorship and guidance in self-discovery. The conversation underscores the role of purpose as a guiding force in life decisions.   Recorded on October 23, 2025 Zya Vann in Norman, OK Dr. Kathleen Shea Smith in Norman, OK James M. Rink in Nashville, TN PNIL 015

Purpose NIL The Light Within: OU’s WBB Zya Vann’s Purpose in Play In this episode of Purpose NIL, University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball guard Zya Vann opens up about discovering her purpose through basketball, gratitude, core values, and authentic living. From supporting teammates to shaping her NIL brand, Zya shares how pruning distractions and honoring her purpose helps her grow, inspire others, and shine on and off the court.   Summary In this episode of Purpose NIL, host James M. Rank engages with Zaya Vann, a student-athlete from the University of Oklahoma, to explore her journey in defining her life's purpose and how she applies it in various aspects of her life, including basketball, academics, and NIL opportunities. The conversation delves into the importance of authenticity, mental health, and the significance of setting missions and goals that align with one's purpose. Zaya shares her experiences of overcoming challenges, the impact of her purpose on her teammates, and the necessity of pruning negative influences from her life to maintain focus and positivity. takeaways Zaya's purpose is to bring peace and happiness to others. Shorter purpose statements can attract more sponsors. Living your purpose can help you overcome personal struggles. Authenticity is key in building NIL opportunities. Mental health is crucial for maintaining one's purpose. Missions in life are seasonal and should align with purpose. Pruning negative influences can enhance personal growth. Social media can impact mental health and should be managed. Purpose-driven living leads to fulfillment and happiness. Engaging with others positively can uplift oneself. Sound Bites "Shorter is better." "You are the author of your own purpose." "It's okay to prune away at things." Chapters 00:00Introduction to Purpose and Identity 01:29Defining Purpose Statements 03:12Living Purpose on the Basketball Court 04:43Authenticity in NIL Opportunities 07:07Self-Care and Mental Health 11:19Missions and Goals in Life 13:45Setting Goals and Missions 15:06Identifying Personal Missions 17:17Pruning Distractions for Quality Living 18:09Leveraging Social Media for Purpose 20:06Reflections on Purpose and Self-Care 21:13NEWCHAPTER PNIL 014 Recorded on October 8, 2025 Zya Vann in Norman, OK James M. Rink in Nashville, TN  

Zya Vann shares her journey of gratitude, growth, and purpose—on and off the court—showing how core values, boundaries, and authenticity shape true success. In this conversation, Zya Vann discusses her journey of discovering her purpose both in basketball and in life. She emphasizes the importance of core values, gratitude, and supporting her teammates. Zya reflects on her personal growth and the significance of setting boundaries in relationships. The discussion also touches on how to market one's purpose through social media and the impact of living authentically. Overall, Zya's insights provide a roadmap for others seeking to find their own purpose and live it out in meaningful ways. takeaways • My values protect my purpose. • Supporting teammates is crucial for personal growth. • Gratitude enhances my perspective on life. • Setting boundaries is essential in relationships. • Living my purpose brings peace and happiness. • Social media can be a platform for purpose. • I want to inspire other women through basketball. • Personal growth takes time and reflection. • Core values guide my decisions and actions. • Finding purpose leads to overall well-being. Sound Bites • "I have so much gratitude." • "My purpose is to stay committed." • "You don't have any respect for me." Chapters 00:00Introduction to Purpose and Identity 01:33Living Purpose Through Team Support 03:14Embracing Leadership as a Sophomore 04:18Gratitude and Self-Care Practices 06:35Introduction to Purpose and Values 08:55Identifying Core Values 09:25Exploring Personal Values and Their Impact 10:03Defining Purpose Through Values 11:28Empathy as a Core Value 13:08Spirituality and Self-Respect 15:12Reflection on Purpose and Well-Being 22:21Discovering Personal Values and Purpose Recorded on October 5, 2025 Zya Vann in Norman, OK James M. Rink in Nashville, TN

In this episode of Purpose NIL, Zaya Vann, a women's basketball player at the University of Oklahoma, shares her journey of discovering her purpose and how it influences her life as a student-athlete. The conversation explores her evolving purpose statement, the balance between athletics and academics, and the importance of self-care and mental health. Zaya discusses how she brings positivity to her team, her aspirations in career choices, and the significance of empathy and leadership. The episode concludes with reflections on living purposefully and the impact it has on her and those around her. takeaways Zaya's purpose is to inspire and bring happiness to others. She enjoys the growth and camaraderie of her basketball team. Living your purpose creates a positive feedback loop. Purpose can guide career choices in psychology or communications. Self-care is essential for maintaining a positive mindset. Intentional acts of purpose can enhance daily life. Empathy is a key trait of effective leaders. Gratitude practices can improve mental health. Understanding your 'sweet spot' helps in living purposefully. Zaya's name means 'light', reflecting her mission to inspire.   Sound Bites "It just makes me feel good." "When I do good, I feel good." "Purpose makes you feel better." Chapters 00:00Introduction to Purpose and Identity 01:13Refining Purpose Statements 03:05Purpose in Team Dynamics 05:21Purpose and Academic Aspirations 07:39Living Purpose Through Self-Care 09:01Intentional Acts of Purpose 10:21Leadership and Commitment in Sports 12:25Empathy and Purpose in Leadership 12:56Overcoming Public Speaking Challenges 14:06Intentional Acts of Kindness 14:40Defining Personal Purpose 15:13Monetizing Purpose in Business 15:41The Significance of Names and Identity 17:40Being a Light to Others 19:57Reflections on Personal Growth and Purpose   Purpose NIL 012 Recorded on October 5, 2025 Zya Vann in Norman, OK James M. Rink in Nashville, TN

Purpose NIL: OU Women Basketball’s Zya Vann’s Mission Beyond the Court. In this episode of Purpose NIL, host James M. Rink engages with Zya Vann, a University of Oklahoma women's basketball player, to explore her journey of discovering her purpose in sports and life. Zya shares her insights on how her commitment to basketball is intertwined with her desire to inspire others, emphasizing the importance of community and support among teammates. The conversation delves into the significance of crafting a personal mission statement and how it can guide one's actions and influence in the world. Zya's reflections on vulnerability and personal growth highlight the transformative power of living with purpose. takeaways • Zya's purpose is to bring happiness and inspiration to others. • Community support is vital in sports and life. • Purpose is deeply connected to feelings and actions. • Crafting a mission statement helps clarify one's goals. • Influencing others positively can create a ripple effect. • Vulnerability is a strength in personal growth. • Commitment to one's purpose is essential for fulfillment. • Understanding marginalized groups can enhance one's influence. • Daily practice of purpose can lead to meaningful change. • Embracing challenges can inspire others to overcome their own. Chapters 00:00Introduction to Purpose and Passion 01:33Living with Gratitude and Team Dynamics 02:51Understanding Feelings and Their Impact 04:48Defining Actions and Influences 06:35Identifying Target Groups for Influence 07:57Crafting a Personal Purpose Statement 09:54Discovering Purpose: Zya's Journey Begins 10:40Crafting a Purpose Statement: Zya's First Draft 12:28Living Your Purpose: Legacy and Mission 14:13Exploring Career Paths: Integrating Purpose into Life 16:23Refining the Purpose Statement: The Importance of Practice 17:48Taking Action: Being a Light in the World 19:35Self-Discovery: Lessons Learned About Purpose Recorded on September 28, 2025 Zya Vann in Norman, OK James M. Rink in Nashville, TN Purpose NIL 011

University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball Guard, Zaya Vann shares how purpose, mental strength, and emotional intelligence shape her basketball journey. Summary In this episode of Purpose NIL, host James M. Rink engages with Zaya Vann, a guard for the University of Oklahoma's women's basketball team. They discuss the importance of identifying one's purpose, both in athletics and in life, and how this purpose can align with business opportunities. Zaya shares her insights on the role of a guard in basketball, her core feelings and actions, and the groups she wishes to influence for the greater good. The conversation also touches on mental health challenges faced by athletes and the potential career paths in communications. takeaways Zaya is studying communications and aspires to play in the WNBA. Purpose entrepreneurship helps athletes build meaningful careers. A guard in basketball is responsible for handling the ball and setting up teammates. Core feelings like peace and gratitude can enhance team performance. Overcoming challenges is essential for athletes and leaders. Businesses with a purpose can be more profitable than those focused solely on profits. Zaya wants to influence athletes and special needs communities. Mental health challenges are prevalent among college students. Identifying one's purpose can lead to greater emotional intelligence. Women athletes have a unique opportunity to inspire other women. Sound Bites "It's purpose entrepreneurship." "I want to influence other athletes." "I want to be a living testimony." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Purpose and NIL Careers 01:25 Basketball Practice Insights and Team Dynamics 03:45 Core Feelings and Actions in Basketball 06:36 Aligning Personal Purpose with Brand Missions 07:39 The Connection with Brands: Nike and Legos 09:27 Influencing Athletes and Baby Boomers 10:31 The Importance of Influencing Special Needs and Minorities 13:53 Influencing Minorities and Women 16:11 Exploring Career Paths in Communications 17:22 Balancing Sports and Mental Health 17:46 Navigating Mental Health Challenges 19:41 Understanding Purpose and Feelings   Recorded on September 25, 2025 Zya Vann in Norman, OK James M. Rink in Nashville, TN   PNIL 010

OU’s Zya Vann shares her journey of faith, family, and purpose on and off the court. In this episode of Purpose NIL, host James M. Rink engages with Zaya Vann, a University of Oklahoma women's basketball player, as she shares her journey of balancing academics, athletics, and personal growth. Zaya discusses her family legacy in basketball, her aspirations to play in the WNBA, and the core feelings that drive her purpose. The conversation delves into the impact of her grandfather's passing, the importance of mental strength, and how she aims to inspire others while defining her own purpose through actions and feelings.   takeaways Zaya balances a demanding schedule of academics and basketball. Family legacy plays a significant role in Zaya's life and aspirations. Core feelings like love, peace, and gratitude guide Zaya's actions. Zaya aims to inspire younger generations through her journey. The importance of mental strength in sports and life. Defining purpose involves identifying both feelings and actions. Zaya's grandfather was a major influence in her life. The power of community and support during times of grief. Zaya's commitment to being a loyal teammate and leader. Living a meaningful life involves understanding one's purpose.   Sound Bites "I love it and I love what I do" "I want to be a loyal person" "We all have a purpose here" Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Zya Vann's Journey 01:11 Balancing Academics and Athletics 02:41 Carrying on a Family Legacy 03:13 Aspiring for the WNBA 04:16 Core Feelings and Their Impact 06:15 Grief and Reflection 07:33 Bringing Peace to the Court 09:18 Inspiring Others Through Basketball 09:45 Defining Purpose and NIL Opportunities 10:56 Identifying Core Actions 11:15 The Power of Strengthening 12:48 The Joy of Play 13:27 Overcoming Challenges 14:16 Influencing Others 14:50 Commitment to Goals 15:20 Navigating Grief and Purpose 17:03 The Importance of Pivoting 17:38 Finding Meaning in Life 20:13 Conclusion and Reflections   Recorded on September 25, 2025 Zya Vann in Norman, OK James M. Rink in Nashville, TN

Purpose NIL; University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball Zya Vann: Finding Purpose Beyond the Court In this conversation, Zya Vann, a rising star in University of Oklahoma Women's basketball, shares her journey and the profound influence of her family on her life and career. The discussion explores the importance of understanding one's purpose, especially in the context of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities for athletes. Zya reflects on her grandfather's optimistic nature, her parents' support, and how these relationships shape her identity both on and off the court. The conversation emphasizes the significance of feelings in defining purpose and the role of personal branding in an athlete's career.   takeaways Zya Vann is a rising star in women's basketball. Family plays a crucial role in shaping Zya's identity. Understanding one's purpose is essential for athletes. NIL opportunities extend beyond just athletes. Feelings are foundational in defining one's purpose. Zya's grandfather was a significant source of encouragement. The importance of mental health support from family. Zya's journey includes balancing academics and athletics. Personal branding is vital for monetizing NIL. Zya aims to inspire others through her story. titles Finding Purpose in Sports and Life Zya Vann: A Rising Star's Journey Sound Bites "Zaya's story will inspire you." "NIL isn't just for athletes." "Purpose is always founded in feelings." Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Purpose NIL and Zya Vann 01:28 Zya's Journey in Basketball and Academics 04:44 Exploring Zya's Purpose and NIL Goals 06:19 Defining Purpose Through Personal Stories 07:24 Identifying Influencers and Support Systems 13:39 Honoring Legacy and Moving Forward 14:43 Honoring Legacy and Influence 15:28 Identifying Core Feelings 16:03 Living Your Purpose 16:45 Navigating Personal and Societal Challenges 17:45 Finding Peace Amidst Chaos 17:57 Transforming Feelings into Purpose   Keywords Zya Vann, NIL, women's basketball, purpose, family influence, personal branding, mental health, communication, Oklahoma University, athlete development   Recorded on September 18, 2025 Zya Vann in Norman, OK James M. Rink in Nashville, TN   PNIL008  

OU’s John Locke and James M. Rink share how purpose, values, and discipline empower athletes’ lives.   In this episode of Purpose NIL, host James M. Rink and guest University of Oklahoma Football’s John Locke discuss the importance of defining one's purpose and how it can empower athletes in their personal and professional lives. They explore the process of creating a personal purpose plan, identifying core values, setting goals, and the significance of living one's purpose in action. John shares his experiences and insights as he prepares for his upcoming college internship and football season, emphasizing the need for discipline and the importance of pruning distractions to focus on quality outcomes. Takeaways • Purpose is essential for athletes to define their personal brand. • Living your purpose requires action and discipline. • Values play a crucial role in building trust with brands. • Creating a personal purpose plan helps in aligning goals with actions. • Missions are seasonal and should reflect current opportunities. • Setting specific goals is vital for achieving success in any mission. • Pruning distractions is necessary for focusing on quality outcomes. • Continuous learning and adaptation are key to personal growth. • Social media presence can enhance an athlete's NIL opportunities. • Regularly updating your personal purpose plan is important for staying aligned with your goals. Sound Bites • "Values are essential in your NIL." JMR • "I want to Maximize my platform." John Locke • "Goals are a dream with a deadline." JMR Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Purpose NIL and Personal Branding 01:56 Defining Purpose Statements and Their Importance 03:39 Living Your Purpose: Intentional Acts and Community Impact 06:00 Values and Their Role in Personal Development 08:04 Creating a Personal Purpose Plan 08:53 Identifying Missions and Goals 10:12 NIL Opportunities and Building a Personal Brand 13:25 Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations Recorded on April 25, 2025 John Locke in Norman, OK James M. Rink in Nashville, TN PNIL 007

Purpose NIL; Inspiring Dreams: The Journey of OU Football’s John Locke Host James M. Rink and OU Tight End John Locke explore how purpose, values, and family shape dreams—empowering athletes and young dreamers to rise. John Locke discuss the importance of personal purpose and values in the context of student athletes. They explore John's journey in crafting his purpose statement, the significance of dreams, and how personal experiences shape one's aspirations. The conversation emphasizes the role of family support, accountability, and discipline in achieving goals, while encouraging young dreamers to pursue their passions without limitations. John shares personal anecdotes about his sister's volleyball journey, highlighting the impact of family investment in fulfilling one's purpose.   Takeaways Spring break is a time for personal reflection and recharging. Building your NIL brand should be based on your purpose. A purpose statement should inspire and connect with others. Dreams are the seeds of future accomplishments. Empowering young dreamers is crucial for their growth. Identifying core values is essential for personal and professional success. Accountability and dependability are vital in relationships. Discipline is key to achieving long-term goals. Sacrifice is often necessary for success and growth. Living intentionally can inspire others to pursue their own purposes.   Sound Bites "It's amazing what little gestures can do." John Locke "You are the author of your story." John Locke "You have your whole life in front of you." John Locke "Dream big and don't stop dreaming." James M. Rink "Purpose is your heart; values are your ribcage." James M. Rink "Accountability is huge in relationships." John Locke "Discipline is my biggest value." John Locke "Sacrifice is a value that means a lot to me." John Locke   Chapters 00:00Spring Break Reflections and Off-Season Preparation 02:16Crafting a Purpose Statement 04:44The Power of Dreams and Inspiration 11:34Empowering Young Dreamers 15:10Identifying Core Values 28:37Living Intentionally and Family Support 36:18Purpose and Protection of Loved Ones   Recorded on April 21, 2025 John Locke in Norman, OK James M. Rink in Nashville, TN PNIL 006  

Purpose NIL; OU Football’s John Locke is inspiring kids with Purpose. In this conversation, James M. Rink and John Locke explore the significance of defining one's purpose and how it relates to personal branding through NIL (Name, Image, Likeness). They discuss the recent Crimson Combine event, where John engaged with fans and inspired children, fulfilling his purpose statement. The conversation also touches on the importance of family support, intentional acts of purpose, and the lessons learned from a high school coach that shaped John's values. Ultimately, John reflects on the joy and fulfillment that comes from living one's purpose and the sacrifices made by his family to help him achieve his dreams. Takeaways • Define your purpose to enhance your NIL. • Engagement with fans can be fulfilling for athletes. • Family support plays a crucial role in achieving dreams. • Intentional acts of purpose can inspire others. • Connecting with children can be a powerful experience. • Reflecting on family sacrifices can deepen appreciation. • Coaches can have a lasting impact on personal values. • Living your purpose brings joy and fulfillment. • The journey to achieving dreams often involves hard work. • Values are essential in both life and sports. Titles • Finding Your Purpose Through NIL • The Impact of the Crimson Combine • Family: The Backbone of Success • Intentional Acts of Purpose in Action Chapters 00:00Defining Purpose and NIL 02:53The Crimson Combine Experience 06:03Family Engagement and Support 08:57Intentional Acts of Purpose 12:03Inspiring the Next Generation 14:56Reflecting on Family Sacrifices 18:12Lessons from a High School Coach 20:59Living Your Purpose 23:50The Importance of Values 26:54Final Thoughts and Future Goals Recorded on April 15, 2025 John Locke, Norman, OK James M. Rink, Nashville, TN PNIL 005

Purpose Wins! OU Football’s John Locke’s Story. In this episode of Purpose NIL, Emmy Award-winning host James M. Rink sits down with University of Oklahoma tight end John Locke. Together, they explore how defining a personal purpose statement can fuel performance on the field and shape life beyond football. John shares his drafts of purpose statements, anchored in love, gratitude, passion, and inspiration. Their conversation reveals how purpose clarifies decisions, strengthens leadership, and builds a personal brand that inspires teammates, family, and future generations. Takeaways Empower student athletes to define their life's purpose. NIL opportunities extend beyond college athletes to anyone with a personal brand. A purpose statement can help build a personal brand. John’s Core feelings include love, gratitude, passion, and inspiration. Action words are essential for defining purpose in life. Drafting a purpose statement requires reflection and revision. Living your purpose can inspire others, especially children. Purpose can guide actions in sports and personal life. A daily personal purpose plan can help navigate challenges. Purpose statements should be broad yet personal, encompassing all aspects of life.   Recorded on April 4, 2025 John Locke in Norman, OK James M. Rink in Nashville, TN   PNIL 004  

In this inspiring episode of Purpose NIL, hosts James M. Rink and John Locke take you behind the scenes  of spring football training at the University of Oklahoma.  John opens up about the pressure and anticipation surrounding the OU Crimson Combine, revealing the high-stakes environment is shaping his mindset and purpose.    Together, they unpack what it means to live with intention—connecting core feelings, and actions to create a life that influences others.  John shares the people he’s passionate about impacting-Children, Men, Leaders, and his Family-as he works toward crafting a powerful purpose statement.    Special guest Dr. Maribeth Kuzmeski (aka “Dr. K’), NIL social media expert from Oklahoma State University, joins the conversation to talk all things personal branding.  She shares the story behind the creation of OSU’s Brand Squad, explains the biggest social media mistakes college athletes make, and offers practical, game-changing tips for turning online presence into NIL potential.      Plus, John reflects on his experience with the Purpose of You Transformational Assessment and how living with purpose has already elevated his joy, focus, and leadership. Stay tuned for the next episode, whereJohn drafts his personal purpose statement.    Takeaways John is excited yet nervous about the Crimson Combine. Spring football training is intense and demanding. Identifying core feelings helps in defining purpose. Gratefulness can be found in small moments during practice. John wants to inspire children to pursue their dreams. Men face unique pressures that require supportive influences. Silent leaders play a crucial role in team dynamics. Family influence is important for John's future aspirations. A personal purpose statement connects feelings, actions, and people. Living one's purpose attracts NIL opportunities and followers. Dr. K created Brand Squad to help athletes with NIL. Brand Squad has 150 members helping athletes with deals. Followers are crucial for business deals in NIL. Social Media Content should go beyond just on-field activities. Athletes should conduct a brand audit of their social media. Cleaning up past social media posts is essential. Social media should reflect the athlete's story. Engagement rates matter more than just follower counts. Businesses should consider the athlete's follower demographics. Consistent and interesting content is key to growing followers. Living your purpose can significantly enhance joy and happiness. Quality of life improves when you align with your purpose. Influencing others, especially children, is a vital aspect of John’s personal purpose. The Purpose of You assessment helps identify transformative questions. Personal growth is linked to understanding and living your purpose. Engagement in meaningful work elevates performance and satisfaction. Writing a purpose statement is a crucial step in self-discovery. Sharing experiences can inspire others on their purpose journey. The journey of purpose is ongoing and evolves over time. Community and support play a key role in personal transformation.   Recorded on March 28, 2025 John Locke, Norman, OK Maribeth Kuzmeski, PhD., Stillwater, OK James M. Rink, Nashville, TN   Purpose NIL 003

Purpose NIL; OU Football’s John Locke: Purpose Beyond the Game From Oklahoma’s football field to Wall Street ambitions, tight end John Locke opens up about the power of passion, family, and faith in shaping his purpose.  Guided by host James M. Rink, this Purpose NIL journey reveals how core values fuel not only athletic victories but also a vision for leadership, finance, and a life lived with meaning.    Discover the story behind the athlete—and be inspired to define your own purpose. Watch now.   In this episode of Purpose NIL, host James M. Rink welcomes back John Locke, a football tight end from the University of Oklahoma, to discuss the journey of becoming NIL entrepreneurs for the greater good. Together, they explore how John’s core feelings, influenced by his parents, shape his passion for football and his future career in finance. A major highlight includes developing a personal purpose statement by connecting core feelings to actions and people, using the formula: feelings plus actions plus people equal purpose. John shares insights into how passion, inspire, grateful, and invest are ways he lives through football. His passion for winning and his commitment to security are discussed through his role as a tight end. They also touch on John's academic pursuits in economics and finance, framing his vision for a future in investment banking, and how his core feelings translate into this field. John shares his dreams, achievements, leadership roles, and how he's preparing for his summer internship. Through anecdotes, such as his impactful trip on Southwest Airlines, John connects personal stories to enhance his NIL brand. The conversation embraces the ever-growing importance of purpose, personal branding, and mental health awareness for student-athletes amidst a global climate of change and uncertainty. Join them in exploring the authentic journey of identifying core actions and feelings as John unveils pathways for his purpose-driven life, both on and off the field.  Discover how to monetize your Purpose NIL. Recorded on March 21, 2025 John Locke in San Antonio, TX James M. Rink in Nashville, TN PNIL 002

Purpose NIL, Meet John Locke, Junior Tight End at the University of Oklahoma. In this conversation with James M. Rink recorded on March 14, 2025, John Locke shares his journey as a college athlete, discussing the importance of Purpose in his life and career. John reflects on the influence of his family, particularly his parents, in shaping his values and aspirations. John shares his dream of playing football at the University of Oklahoma was inspired by his father when shown a picture of John’s great grandfather playing for OU in the 1930s. At the time of hearing this family story, John was in 3rd Grade and planted the seed of his dream to play football at OU. The discussion emphasizes the significance of identifying core feelings in moments like this and how they relate to personal branding and NIL opportunities. They discuss how major brands like Disney and Nike monetize their Purpose by creating feelings in their customers. John expresses his desire to invest in future generations, drawing from the lessons learned from his own experiences with his parents. In this conversation, James and John explore the importance of Purpose in life and business, particularly in the context of college athletes. John shares his personal experiences with prayer and football as sources of peace and love, while also addressing the mental health challenges faced by college students. The conversation emphasizes the need for athletes to navigate social media effectively to build their personal brands and connect with their audience. Ultimately, the discussion highlights the significance of gratitude and support systems in achieving personal and professional growth. Key takeaways • John believes his life has a deep purpose. • Football has been a significant part of John's family life. • John wants to invest in his future children as his father did for him. • Purpose is about giving feelings to others for their greater good. • John's journey reflects the importance of family support in achieving dreams. • Identifying core feelings is crucial for personal branding. • Leadership moments can lead to significant personal growth. • John's connection to Oklahoma football is rooted in family history. • Crafting a personal Purpose statement is essential for defining one's path. • Monetizing purpose involves creating good feelings for others. • Purpose-based businesses are more profitable than others. • Daily routines can help individuals live their Purpose. • Mental health challenges are prevalent among college students. • Social media is a crucial tool for NIL branding. • Building a personal brand requires effective social media use. • Gratitude for support systems enhances personal growth. • Identifying core feelings can guide daily actions. • Living purposefully can positively impact others. For more weekly Purpose NIL episodes Subscribe to my YouTube Channel  @JamesMRink  More information at PurposeOfYou.com PNIL 001 Recorded on March 14, 2025 John Locke in Norman, OK James M. Rink in Nashville, TN

Promo 2 Purpose NIL; Living Your Purpose in Action Episode 007

Promo 1 Purpose NIL; Living Your Purpose in Action Episode 007

Purpose NIL; Living Your Purpose in Action Episode 007   Description In this episode of Purpose NIL, host James M. Rink and guest University of Oklahoma Football’s John Locke discuss the importance of defining one's purpose and how it can empower athletes in their personal and professional lives. They explore the process of creating a personal purpose plan, identifying core values, setting goals, and the significance of living one's purpose in action. John shares his experiences and insights as he prepares for his upcoming college internship and football season, emphasizing the need for discipline and the importance of pruning distractions to focus on quality outcomes. Takeaways Purpose is essential for athletes to define their personal brand. Living your purpose requires action and discipline. Values play a crucial role in building trust with brands. Creating a personal purpose plan helps in aligning goals with actions. Missions are seasonal and should reflect current opportunities. Setting specific goals is vital for achieving success in any mission. Pruning distractions is necessary for focusing on quality outcomes. Continuous learning and adaptation are key to personal growth. Social media presence can enhance an athlete's NIL opportunities. Regularly updating your personal purpose plan is important for staying aligned with your goals. Sound Bites "Values are essential in your NIL." JMR "I want to Maximize my platform." John Locke "Goals are a dream with a deadline." JMR Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Purpose NIL and Personal Branding 01:56 Defining Purpose Statements and Their Importance 03:39 Living Your Purpose: Intentional Acts and Community Impact 06:00 Values and Their Role in Personal Development 08:04 Creating a Personal Purpose Plan 08:53 Identifying Missions and Goals 10:12 NIL Opportunities and Building a Personal Brand 13:25 Lessons Learned and Future Aspirations   Recorded on April 25, 2025 John Locke in Norman, OK James M. Rink in Nashville, TN

Description In this episode of Purpose NIL, Host James M. Rink and Guest John Locke discuss the importance of personal purpose and values in the context of student athletes. They explore John's journey in crafting his purpose statement, the significance of dreams, and how personal experiences shape one's aspirations. The conversation emphasizes the role of family support, accountability, and discipline in achieving goals, while encouraging young dreamers to pursue their passions without limitations. John shares personal anecdotes about his sister's volleyball journey, highlighting the impact of family investment in fulfilling one's purpose.

Promo 1  Purpose NIL; Inspiring Dreams: The Journey of John Locke, Episode 006 Description In this episode of Purpose NIL, Host James M. Rink and Guest John Locke discuss the importance of personal purpose and values in the context of student athletes. They explore John's journey in crafting his purpose statement, the significance of dreams, and how personal experiences shape one's aspirations. The conversation emphasizes the role of family support, accountability, and discipline in achieving goals, while encouraging young dreamers to pursue their passions without limitations. John shares personal anecdotes about his sister's volleyball journey, highlighting the impact of family investment in fulfilling one's purpose.