The Victory Degree

NFL success isn’t just about talent — it’s about mindset, resilience, and survival. In this powerful episode of The Victory Degree, former NFL star John Abraham pulls back the curtain on what it truly takes to make it — and last — at the highest level as a professional athlete. From his rise as one of the most feared pass rushers in football to his prime years with the Atlanta Falcons, John shares the unseen mental battles behind elite NFL performance.John Abraham reflects on his journey through the NFL, explaining why sacks are more mental than physical, how injuries test an athlete’s identity, and why effort matters more than perfection. As an athlete with 133.5 career sacks, John breaks down how preparation, mindset, and self-belief separated him from others trying to survive in the league. His time with the Atlanta Falcons and New York Jets gives rare insight into locker room culture, leadership, and the pressure that comes with NFL success.This episode goes far beyond stats. John opens up about growing up in a small town, being doubted early, and learning how fear of failure — and fear of success — shaped his career. He dives into the financial pressure many NFL athletes face, the responsibility of supporting family, and the reality fans never see behind the contracts. His story highlights why mindset is the foundation of long-term NFL success, both on and off the field.John also shares how he reframed adversity after football, how fatherhood changed his definition of success, and why mental resilience matters long after the game ends.Connect With John: Instagram: instagram.com/j.abraham55/Facebook: facebook.com/classicabraham55Connect with Nik: Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/Twitter: x.com/victorywithnikYouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegreeOther Episodes You May Enjoy:Josh DobbsSpotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXuApple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVBGeorge MumfordSpotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaRApple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBRDr. Jim LoehrSpotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

What if everything you’ve been taught about business, being an entrepreneur, achieving success, and mastering your mindset is actually leading you in the wrong direction? In this powerful conversation, we sit down with Kevin Dahlstrom to unpack the truths most people in entrepreneurship never talk about. This episode challenges conventional wisdom around ambition, hustle, and achievement, and forces you to rethink what real success in business actually looks like when mindset, fulfillment, and purpose are placed at the center.Kevin Dahlstrom is a former C-suite executive who appeared to “have it all” by traditional standards of business success. He had the titles, the income, the prestige, and the external validation that so many entrepreneurs chase. Yet beneath the surface, his mindset was deteriorating. In this episode, Kevin shares why walking away from millions wasn’t a failure — it was the most strategic decision he ever made as an entrepreneur focused on long-term success.We explore the hidden psychological costs of modern entrepreneurship and why so many high-performing people in business feel unfulfilled despite outward success. Kevin explains how chasing status, money, and recognition can quietly erode your mindset, distort your identity, and disconnect you from what actually matters. This conversation goes deep into the tension between ambition and peace, and how redefining success can completely reshape both your business and your life.The episode also dives into how environment plays a massive role in entrepreneurial success and mindset. Kevin breaks down why where you live, who you surround yourself with, and how you structure your days may be more important than any business strategy or productivity hack. Many entrepreneurs obsess over tactics while ignoring the foundational elements that support sustainable success.We also discuss the future of business in an AI-driven world and what entrepreneurs need to understand right now to stay relevant. Kevin shares why artificial intelligence will reshape entrepreneurship and the job market faster than most people expect — and why mindset adaptability will be the defining skill for future success. Rather than fear change, he explains how entrepreneurs can use uncertainty as leverage.Throughout the conversation, we touch on failure, luck, ego, and identity — topics rarely discussed honestly in business circles. Kevin opens up about rebuilding his life from the ground up, recalibrating his mindset, and designing a version of success rooted in values rather than validation. This episode isn’t about quitting business or ambition — it’s about upgrading how you approach entrepreneurship so success doesn’t come at the cost of your health, happiness, or integrity.If you’re an entrepreneur questioning the traditional definition of success, feeling burned out by hustle culture, or searching for a stronger mindset to build a business you’re actually proud of, this episode will challenge you in the best way possible. It’s a reminder that real success in entrepreneurship isn’t just measured by revenue or titles — it’s measured by alignment, clarity, and the life your business allows you to live.Connect With Kevin: Twitter: x.com/Camp4 Website: bolt.health/Connect with Nik: Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/Twitter: x.com/victorywithnikYouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegreeOther Episodes You May Enjoy:Josh DobbsSpotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXuApple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVBGeorge MumfordSpotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaRApple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBRDr. Jim LoehrSpotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

In today’s episode, Legendary Coach Jim Johnson shares the unbelievable journey that led him from being fired at 25… to building one of the most consistent winning cultures in high school basketball. We talk about his unforgettable encounter with Magic Johnson, the leadership lessons behind 23 straight winning seasons, and of course, the iconic J-Mac game that shocked the nation and became a global inspiration story (over 1 million views on ESPN). Coach Johnson breaks down: - The mindset shift that saved his coaching career - How imagery, confidence, and mental training transformed his teams - Stories from Magic Johnson, Larry Bird, and the Van Gundy family - What separates the top 0.1% performers from everyone else - Why the J-Mac moment still gives him chills to this day Connect With Coach Johnson: Twitter: x.com/CoachJimJohnson LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/coachjimjohnson/ Website: coachjimjohnson.com/Connect with Nik: Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/Twitter: x.com/victorywithnikYouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegreeOther Episodes You May Enjoy:Josh DobbsSpotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXuApple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVBGeorge MumfordSpotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaRApple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBRDr. Jim LoehrSpotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

What does it really take to survive in the NFL — not just on Sundays, but in life? In this powerful episode of The Victory Degree, Super Bowl champion David Tyree shares the untold story behind one of the most iconic moments in NFL history and the unseen battles that almost ended his career before it ever peaked. This conversation goes far beyond highlights and box scores, diving deep into mindset, identity, and what true success actually looks like for a professional athlete.Long before the Helmet Catch became an immortal moment in sports, David Tyree was fighting internal wars that few people knew about. He opens up about the pressure of the NFL, the mistakes that nearly cost him everything, and the turning points that reshaped his mindset on and off the field. Rather than glorifying the moment everyone remembers, David breaks down the preparation, resilience, and mental discipline required to stay ready when opportunity finally shows up.We explore how leadership and culture inside the New York Giants created a championship environment, why timing and belief matter just as much as talent in the NFL, and how elite athletes separate themselves when the stakes are highest. David also reflects on the lessons learned from teammates, coaches, and moments of adversity that forced him to redefine his version of success beyond football.This episode is about more than sports. It’s about overcoming personal demons, rebuilding confidence, and developing a mindset that holds up when life doesn’t go according to plan. Whether you’re an athlete, entrepreneur, or anyone chasing excellence, David Tyree’s story offers timeless lessons on perseverance, faith, and purpose after the spotlight fades.If you’re interested in sports, high-performance mindset, and the real stories behind legendary NFL moments, this is a conversation you won’t want to miss.Connect With David: Twitter: x.com/TyreeNationInstagram: instagram.com/dtyree85/LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/davidtyree85/Connect with Nik: Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/Twitter: x.com/victorywithnikYouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegreeOther Episodes You May Enjoy:Josh DobbsSpotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXuApple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVBGeorge MumfordSpotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaRApple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBRDr. Jim LoehrSpotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Jay Bilas joins The Victory Degree Podcast for an honest and thought-provoking conversation on confidence, criticism, and the evolving world of college sports. From his early days under Coach K at Duke to his insights on NIL, social media, and mental toughness, Jay shares the lessons that shaped his career as a player, coach, lawyer, and broadcaster.We talk about:- Why self-belief starts with hard work and mentors- How to handle negativity, criticism, and “you suck” comments online- Coach K’s biggest lessons on preparation and leadership- NIL, sports gambling, and how money is reshaping college athletics- What confidence really means — and how Jay built his- Who the best college prospect of all time is& much more...Connect With Jay: Twitter: x.com/JayBilasInstagram: instagram.com/jaybilas/Connect with Nik: Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/Twitter: x.com/victorywithnikYouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegreeOther Episodes You May Enjoy:Josh DobbsSpotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXuApple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVBGeorge MumfordSpotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaRApple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBRDr. Jim LoehrSpotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Former NFL defensive lineman Breiden Fehoko (Chargers, Steelers, LSU) joins The Victory Degree to pull back the curtain on the truth about the NFL — from how politics decide who plays, to how mental health and self-belief define success long after the game ends.Breiden opens up about playing with Patrick Mahomes, Justin Herbert, Russell Wilson, and what he’s learned about opportunity, timing, and resilience. We also dive into social media pressure, life after football, and why “delusional self-belief” might be the secret ingredient every athlete needs.If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to make it — and stay — in the NFL, this conversation will change how you see the game forever.Connect With Breiden: Twitter: x.com/BreidenFehokoInstagram: instagram.com/bfehoko/Connect with Nik: Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/Twitter: x.com/victorywithnikYouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegreeOther Episodes You May Enjoy:Josh DobbsSpotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXuApple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVBGeorge MumfordSpotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaRApple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBRDr. Jim LoehrSpotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

NBA writer and best-selling author Shea Serrano joins Nik Atanackovic on The Victory Degree Podcast to talk about his new book, Expensive Basketball — a love letter to the moments, feelings, and players that make the game beautiful.From Ray Allen’s jumper vs. Joakim Noah’s, to Tim Duncan’s quiet dominance, Shaq’s unstoppable force, and Kobe’s poetic 60-point farewell, this episode dives deep into the emotional side of basketball — the kind of stuff stats can’t explain.Topics Covered:- Why “Expensive Basketball” is about feelings, not numbers- Shea’s defense of Steph Curry’s magic and Shaq’s speed- The pain of the 2002 Kings-Lakers series (and why it still hurts)- Why Tim Duncan is Shea’s favorite player- LeBron’s rise from “great” to “greatest”- The beauty behind Kobe’s final gameConnect With Shea: Twitter: x.com/SheaSerranoInstagram: instagram.com/shea.serrano/Buy The Book: amzn.to/3JsAhQrConnect with Nik: Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/Twitter: x.com/victorywithnikYouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegreeOther Episodes You May Enjoy:Josh DobbsSpotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXuApple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVBGeorge MumfordSpotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaRApple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBRDr. Jim LoehrSpotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

After serving two years in federal prison for money laundering, Chad Dunn rebuilt his life from the ground up, transforming pain into purpose.Once a promising athlete turned felon, Chad used his time behind bars to redefine his identity, confront his demons, and build a mission around helping others overcome their limitations.Today, he is a certified behavioral change specialist with over 20 years of experience in health, modern fitness, and human performance. Chad has trained NFL players, NBA prospects, and individuals recovering from catastrophic injuries, while co-founding and building MOVE Physical Therapy & Human Performance Center in Chandler, Arizona with his wife and business partner, Jackie.In this conversation, we discuss:- Why you should do hard things & face your fears - How prison became the best thing that ever happened to him- What it takes to rebuild your life and business from nothing- The power of true redemption- Does money make you happy& much more...Connect with Chad:Buy The Book: mindovervirtuallyeverything.com/Instagram: instagram.com/moveperformance/Website: moveperformance.com/Connect with Nik: Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/Twitter: x.com/victorywithnikYouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegreeOther Episodes You May Enjoy:Josh DobbsSpotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXuApple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVBGeorge MumfordSpotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaRApple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBRDr. Jim LoehrSpotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

Taybor Pepper sits down with Nik to talk about the real side of the NFL — from getting cut by the 49ers just days into free agency, to what it’s actually like inside a Kyle Shanahan team meeting. He opens up about the chaos of bouncing between teams, the pressure of fighting for a roster spot every year, and how mindfulness helped him stay grounded through it all.They get into everything: NFL free agency stories, life as a long snapper, Robbie Gould’s mentorship, battling mental health, the mental toll of football, and what it takes to survive nearly a decade in the league.Connect with Taybor:Twitter: x.com/TayborSnappingInstagram: instagram.com/tayborsnapping/Connect with Nik: Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/Twitter: x.com/victorywithnikYouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegreeOther Episodes You May Enjoy:Josh DobbsSpotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXuApple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVBGeorge MumfordSpotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaRApple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBRDr. Jim LoehrSpotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21

At 22, Mike Flynt was kicked out of college football for fighting.37 years later, at 59 years old, he went back to finish what he started.This is the unbelievable true story of regret, redemption, and second chances.We talk about adversity, character, faith, and what it really means to never quit.In this episode:• How Mike turned his biggest regret into his greatest comeback• The power of adversity and why quitting is never an option• Lessons on faith, character, and choosing to be great• What a 59-year-old linebacker can teach us about lifeConnect with Mike:🎥 Watch The Seniors in theaters Sept 19Website: mikeflynt.comConnect with Nik: Instagram: instagram.com/victorywithnik/Twitter: x.com/victorywithnikYouTube: youtube.com/@TheVictoryDegreeOther Episodes You May Enjoy:Josh DobbsSpotify: spoti.fi/4cmtQXuApple Podcasts: apple.co/4e9hmVBGeorge MumfordSpotify: spoti.fi/4bIywaRApple Podcasts: apple.co/45ltHBRDr. Jim LoehrSpotify: spoti.fi/3yyddu8Apple Podcasts: apple.co/3AcnX21