Skinny Boy Raised by Single Parent to NFL Player

Don Carey was born in Grand Rapids, Michigan and spent his high school and college days in Norfolk, Virginia. Don's mom worked two jobs and raised four kids by herself.  Growing up without his father was very painful and lonely. He would question what he did wrong and struggled with suicidal thoughts. Don relied heavily on the support of his extended family which enabled him to overcome the feeling of sadness.  This was a turning point in Don’s life that moved him forward with the goal of one day playing in the National Football League.

Don went to a private middle school and played football.  In high school his coaches and teammates were impressed with Don's dedication by showing up to practice everyday, working on his personal drills and always striving to be the best version of himself.  He excelled in school and graduated 9th in his class and received a scholarship to play football at Norfolk State University.  In 2009 Don was drafted by the Cleveland Browns and is currently a Jacksonville Jaguar.

Don is a public speaker and his message is about having a strong foundation, patriotism and a mindset to succeed.  You have to be better than mediocre and surround yourself with like minded individuals. Give back always because there is always someone who needs the necessary motivation to be great.  "True success is not only defined by your own milestones but also by the number of people you reach back and pull along the way.”

What to listen for in this episode:

• When there are struggles in life keep pushing forward and be determined to succeed.

• You can either use your struggles to better your tomorrow or use it as an excuse to stay the same.

• Success doesn't just happen, you have to discover your abilities, maximize your talents and market yourself in a desirable way.