Send us a comment about the Be a Baller Podcast Episode. Thanks for support.

Basketball legend, Larry Jones, will be remembered for his impact and commitment to mentoring the next next generation. Larry was committed to his wife, family, friends, his church and the community. He always had a kind word and would light up a room with his endless tensing jokes. will truly be missed. His story isn't just about basketball—it's about building a legacy of positive influence, the kind that resonates long after the final buzzer. Listen in and be moved by the spirit of a baller who made his mark, both on and off the court. Enjoy the rebroadcast of episode.

Larry shares with us tales from his ABA and NBA heydays, and the profound role his faith, family, and community played in his rise to stardom. Larry's narrative is as captivating as it is inspiring; from a late bloomer on the church basketball team to making waves in the pro leagues, his story is a testament to the power of belief and perseverance. Tune in and be moved by the spirit of a baller who continues to make his mark, both on and off the court.

He takes us through his decision to play for the Denver Rockets over the LA Lakers and reveals the fierce advocacy for player rights that led him to a presidency in the ABA Players Association.

We navigate through the thrilling world of ABA basketball, where Larry Jones became a household name, and his astonishing 23-game 30 point scoring streak left fans and future players alike in awe. His anecdotes are filled with the tension and triumph of a professional athlete, including a memorable standoff with a general manager that solidified his reputation as a man of intelligence and integrity. Larry's leadership extended beyond the court, setting the stage for the modern era of player empowerment and equity.

As Larry reflects on his impact and commitment to mentoring the next generation, we're reminded that a true baller's influence isn't confined to the hardwood. His touching tales from a standout all-star game performance and his strategic shift to the Philadelphia 76ers round out an illustrious career. But it's his role as a founder of a yearly summer basketball camp, substitute teacher, shaping young minds, that truly showcases the breadth of Larry's legacy.

Support the show

Send us a comment about the Be a Baller Podcast Episode. Thanks for support.

Angela Pace powerful story reminds us of the nurturing community of Columbus's historic Poindexter Village (the "Blackberry Patch") where three generations of women taught her about determination and sacrifice. With candid warmth and infectious humor, she shares how her grandmother and mother instilled in her a love of learning, proper English, and unwavering faith that would become the foundation of her broadcasting career.

One teacher's belief changed everything. When Angela Pace's sixth-grade teacher drove her home and told her mother, "This girl needs to go to college," a new path opened for a young girl from Poindexter Village who had never imagined higher education as part of her future.

The journey wasn't smooth. Angela reveals the heartbreaking challenges she faced – from her mother's death during her high school years to experiencing blatant racism as a young reporter in Newark, where police officials deliberately withheld stories from the "little Black girl with a teeny weeny 'fro." Yet for every obstacle, Angela encountered champions who recognized her talent and created opportunities, including former teachers who literally drove her to Capital University to help her re-enroll after she had to drop out to support her siblings.

Her broadcasting career brought extraordinary experiences – covering Princess Diana's funeral, reporting from the Nagano Olympics, and even meeting Nelson Mandela. But Angela's greatest pride comes from connecting with the Columbus community and inspiring younger journalists who tell her, "I want to be Angela Pace." Now honored as one of Columbus's Top 50 Icons, Angela doesn't see herself as a trailblazer but as "encouragement and maybe hope" for all the other kids from neighborhoods like hers.

What does legacy mean to Angela Pace? It's "doing something that somebody will remember, hopefully for all the right reasons." Listen now to discover how faith, mentorship, and perseverance shaped a broadcasting legend whose grandmother "prayed her through college" and whose story continues to inspire generations.

Support the show

Send us a comment about the Be a Baller Podcast Episode. Thanks for support.

What if you could learn the secrets of a two-time Heisman Trophy winner? Join us on the Be A Baller Podcast as we welcome the legendary Archie Griffin a two-time Heisman Trophy winner.

Faith, leadership, and legacy are central themes in Archie's life. Reflecting on the role of nightly prayers and gratitude, he discusses how these practices influenced his decision to play for Ohio State University. Despite initial doubts, pivotal moments with Coach Woody Hayes and a grounded approach to life led Archie to success both on and off the field. He emphasizes character, fairness, integrity, and the "three Ds" of desire, dedication, and determination.

Explore his inspiring journey from a sports-oriented family in Columbus, Ohio, to becoming a college football icon at Ohio State University. Discover the invaluable lessons Archie learned from his upbringing, his memorable experiences playing under coach Woody Hayes, and the significance of dotting the "I" in the Ohio State University Marching Band.

Family values and sports played pivotal roles in shaping Archie's resilience and determination. Listen as he recounts personal anecdotes from playing multiple sports at Blackburn Playground and how his family emphasized both education and athletics. Archie shares heartwarming stories of early sports participation, the importance of teamwork, and the lifelong lessons that athletic competition instilled. From the rigorous laps of organized football to his siblings' academic successes, he paints a vivid picture of the foundational experiences that molded Archie into a champion.

Archie Griffin's life has been committed to building a lasting legacy, his work ethic, and his desire to be remembered for his principles and unwavering dedication to helping others.

Support the show

Send us a comment about the Be a Baller Podcast Episode. Thanks for support.

Ever wondered how a young girl from Columbus could rise to become a beacon of justice? Join me, Coach Tim Brown, on the Be A Baller podcast and be inspired by the story of Judge Jaiza Page. From her formative years at the Columbus School for Girls to her life-altering time at Georgetown University, Judge Page's journey is a testament to the power of education, faith, and a strong family foundation. She opens up about the cherished values passed down from her mother and grandparents, and the influential mentors who paved her path to the Franklin County Court of Common Pleas General Division. Her tale is not just about personal triumph, but also about the profound commitment to public service and instilling a legacy of positive change.

This episode is a celebration of second chances and the indomitable human spirit. Judge Page shares uplifting stories of individuals who have turned their lives around with the help of the justice system—finding sobriety, employment, or a new educational path. Judge Page shares the importance of nurturing aspirations in the legal field among our youth and the pivotal role faith plays in overcoming life's hurdles. As we discuss the concept of legacy, you'll be encouraged to reflect on your own impact and how you can contribute to a better world. Whether you're a law enthusiast, aspiring public servant, or simply someone who cherishes community growth, this conversation with Judge Jaiza Page will leave you motivated to craft a lasting legacy of your own.

Support the show

Send us a comment about the Be a Baller Podcast Episode. Thanks for support.

John Gregory, CEO of the National Center for Urban Solutions our esteemed guest, shifted his sights from corporate ambitions to the heart of urban revival. He and Kenny Hampton, President of the African American Wellness Agency, share how the center's initiatives, including the groundbreaking African American Wellness Walk, have become pillars of hope and practical change. Our guest inform the audience the narrative behind the National Center for Urban Solutions and its relentless drive to uplift communities from economic hardship. T

As the conversation deepens, we traverse the life-affirming paths of the African-American Wellness Walk, casting light on its evolution into Black Men's Wellness Day. Kenny Hampton walks us through the event's origin, rooted in the spirit of brotherhood, and its blossoming into a national movement dedicated to dismantling health inequities. The day's far-reaching impact is felt through fatherhood programs, financial advice, and mental health resources, underlining the pivotal role community networks play. This tapestry of support, interwoven with free services and trust, is an emblem of the transformation we're witnessing.

Our conversation centers around mentorship and personal development as linchpins for community enrichment, echoing our mantra, "We do what we say we do." The episode culminates in a contemplation of legacy and the imperative to act, to be the living embodiment of service, motivated by spirit rather than wealth. This powerful dialogue is a tribute to those who have paved our way and a rally cry for listeners to forge their own legacies of integrity and leadership.

Support the show

Send us a comment about the Be a Baller Podcast Episode. Thanks for support.

For over three decades, Adam K. Troy has been a bridge builder and catalytic thought-leader for fostering community and economic empowerment.

A multi-dimensional social entrepreneur, Adam is the principal of TROY Enterprises and also serves as the Chief Engagement Officer for the Community Development
Foundation of New Salem Baptist Church. He is noted as a transformational leader with broad-based experience in the areas of real estate and community development. To those arenas and beyond he brings a unique blend of expertise to align government and private sector interests with that of community residents’ and non-profit organizations toward the well-being of residents and overall quality of life impact.

His expertise with mixed-use projects in under-resourced markets and
continued commitment to the community has positioned him as one of our
nation’s most credible messengers and experienced thought-leaders in the field
of public-private partnerships. His completed project track record
demonstrates a proven ability to work in unison with staff, volunteers, and
board of directors. Skillful in interacting with stakeholders, community groups,
and government officials at varying levels, he is recognized for his ability to gain
consensus. Clients describe his workmanship as innovative, versatile, and
always centered on the end user. Adam’s vast network of contacts and results oriented approach has earned him a reputation as a solid team-player and business leader.

Support the show

Send us a comment about the Be a Baller Podcast Episode. Thanks for support.

The Amazing Tei Street was a guest at the Be a Baller Live Event. Tei is a member of the Columbus (OH) Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., and the Black Women’s Collective (BWC), She is a graduate of United Way’s Project Diversity, Leadership Columbus, and the African American Leadership Academy.

Tei Street has more than 25 years of experience in higher education, curriculum development; training in sexual assault prevention, violence prevention; diversity & inclusion, as well as advocacy, education and youth leadership development.

Tei Street is a national motivational speaker, trainer, and education consultant. Her love and passion for positively affecting the lives of all young people and the adults who influence their lives, comes through each time she steps on a stage…or gymnasium floor. Tei’s masterful us of humor, coupled with her gift for storytelling makes her a crowd favorite. Tei challenges her audiences to take the knowledge they gain to move from motion to action; walking in what make them “amazing!”

Support the show

Send us a comment about the Be a Baller Podcast Episode. Thanks for support.

John Pace was a born entrepreneur. On his eighteenth birthday he planned and implemented his first marketing strategy complete with an event platform. Three years later, John sold the intellectual property rights and trademark to Anheuser Busch which became part of their Michelob brand introduction. Over the next twenty-five years, John designed and implemented data-driven marketing plans to introduce exciting new products and innovative branding strategies that integrated corporate giving with organizations' direct marketing strategies. John has been CEO of an emerging organization and advisor to the C-Suites of Fortune 500 organizations. John says experience has taught him to lead by example and exceed expectations by keeping his team highly motivated. John often makes the statement, “I win when my organization wins.”

In 2021 John established Classic For Columbus Inc. (CFC) as a 501c3 nonprofit organization to bring a HBCU football game back to The Ohio State University after 25 years. CFC produced the HBCU football Classic and College Basketball All-Star Game & Celebrity Extravaganza. The events helped CFC award over $430,000 to scholarship programs and HBCU schools. John serves as CEO/President of CFC. Inc.

Support the show