Dinerpod 44: Jed Collins-Former NFL Fullback

In this high-octane episode, Red Velvet welcomes former NFL fullback Jedidiah Collins to the studio via satellite from Bellevue, Washington. The conversation bridges the gap between the gridiron and the "real world," exploring how a "great failure" mentality and the grit of a fullback can lead to a successful life as an entrepreneur.

• The "Million Dollar" Wake-Up Call: Jedidiah opens with a powerful perspective on gratitude: if someone offered you a million dollars but told you that you wouldn't wake up tomorrow, you’d turn it down. Therefore, every day you wake up is already worth a million bucks.

• The Mission Viejo Dynasty: Jedidiah reflects on his legendary high school career in Southern California under the late Bob Johnson. He discusses the 41-1 record and the "small college" atmosphere of a program that produced NFL stars like Mark Sanchez and Jordan Palmer.

• The "Slow" Overachiever: Despite being a top-rated linebacker, Jedidiah’s recruiting slowed down due to his 5.03 forty-yard dash. He shares how he leveraged "basketball fluidity" and mental processing to lead the nation in receptions as a tight end at Washington State, proving that being a step ahead is better than being a step fast.

• 13 Times Cut: A raw look at the brutal reality of the NFL. Jedidiah details the mental toll of being cut 13 times in three years before finding his home with Sean Payton and the New Orleans Saints.

• The Birth of "Jedzilla": To survive the "crash test dummy" life of a fullback, Jedidiah had to create an alter-ego. He explains the psychological shift required to become the "scary monster" on the field who could go head-to-head with legends like Brian Dawkins.

"I lost every day growing up... I consider myself a great failure that extended into my NFL career. As an entrepreneur, you've got to be comfortable knowing you're going to get kicked in the teeth a lot." — Jedidiah Collins