Analytics, Impact, and a Second Chance at Life with Kathleen Davis | E192

What happens when a head injury almost ends your life, but you wake up more alive than ever? In this powerful episode, Max sits down with Kathleen Davis, CEO of SMRI and founder of SurveyEdge, to explore her inspiring journey from trailblazing NFL analytics to surviving a traumatic brain injury. Kathleen shares the challenges of thriving in male-dominated spaces, building data platforms that actually engage people, and finding joy through gratitude and service. Her story is proof that resilience, relationships, and a fearless heart can transform any setback into strength. Whether you're an entrepreneur, sports fan, or someone looking for renewed purpose, this conversation is a reminder to lead with love, live with curiosity, and serve with joy.

 

Learn more about Kathleen:
📧 Email: [e-mail]

🌐 Website: go-smri.com 

🌐 Website: survey-edge.com

 

Episode highlights:

(0:00) Intro

(1:25) Who is Kathleen, and what is her work in data analytics

(5:47) How she collects high-quality on-site data

(6:59) Creation of SurveyEdge and its growth post-COVID

(10:43) What SMRI stands for and what it actually does

(16:39) The economic impact of big events like the Super Bowl

(23:50) Kathleen’s background, education, and early career

(29:06) Surviving a traumatic head injury and finding a new purpose

(32:21) What “fearless” means to her

(34:49) Defining happiness and giving back

(37:19) Her best life advice: Focus outward and add value to others

(40:21) Outro