Parenting Great Kids with Dr. Meg Meeker Ep. 257: Beyond the NFL: David Pollack on Resilience, Faith, and Life Lessons from Sports
Dr. Meg Meeker sits down with former NFL linebacker and college football hall of famer David Pollack to explore his inspiring journey from professional athlete to author of the new book The Won’t Quit Kid. Pollack shares how a career-ending neck injury transformed his life, strengthening his faith and deepening his personal resilience. His story is one of perseverance, growth, and the power of embracing life’s unexpected challenges.
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Key Moments:
00:36 David Pollack's Journey: From NFL to Author
01:49 The Impact of a Career-Ending Injury
02:12 Faith and Resilience Through Adversity
03:33 Lessons Learned and Personal Growth
07:02 The Won't Quit Kid: Inspiration Behind the Book
09:31 Coaching and Mentorship: Building Future Leaders
10:47 Balancing Sports and Life: Advice for Parents
15:43 The Importance of Role Models and Mentors
18:02 Navigating Modern Parenting Challenges
20:29 Parental Concerns About Teen Parties
21:28 Transitioning from NFL to Broadcasting
23:20 Lessons from Early Broadcasting Career
25:47 The Won't Quit Kid: Inspiring Resilience in Children
32:42 Prioritizing Family and Faith
38:43 Final Thoughts and Parenting Advice
David Pollack, former NFL linebacker and College Football Hall of Famer, is known for his remarkable football career and 13 years as a standout analyst on ESPN College GameDay. After overcoming a career-ending neck injury, Pollack shifted his focus to inspiring others through his work with The Pollack Family Foundation, co-hosting the Family Goals podcast, and now as the author of The Won't Quit Kid. His debut children’s book, created in partnership with BRAVE Books, teaches kids the importance of hard work, patience, and resilience—values he exemplifies in his own journey. Pollack lives in Athens, Georgia, with his wife and children.
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