In this episode of Athletes to Entrepreneurs – The Alumni Journey, Rob Finkelstein sits down with James Toale, a former college baseball player turned entrepreneur, mentor, and Founder & CEO of 47 Inc, to explore how resilience, community, and innovation can transform setbacks into success.James shares his journey from Coral Springs, Florida, where he and his brother both pursued baseball dreams—his brother John drafted by the Boston Red Sox, while James played at Miami Dade College until a torn ACL ended his path to professional sports. That pivotal moment redirected his life toward entrepreneurship, leading him to own multiple businesses before the 2007 economic downturn changed everything again. Out of those challenges, James discovered network marketing, which not only reignited his drive but also inspired him and his wife to launch 47 Inc.Their company is focused on introducing innovative health products centered around safe hydration—with coconut water as a key ingredient—and built on a mission to help the 97% of people living paycheck to paycheck find hope and opportunity. Beyond business, James is deeply passionate about teaching health and business skills, serving as a coach and mentor, and paying it forward the right way.Whether you’re an athlete navigating transition, an entrepreneur seeking inspiration, or someone looking to combine personal development with business success, James’s story offers a roadmap of resilience, purpose, and impact.---What You’ll Learn in This Episode:
- How a career-ending ACL injury shifted James’s life trajectory
- The lessons of owning multiple businesses before and after 2007
- Why network marketing gave James a second chance at success
- How launching 47 Inc is helping people through hydration-focused health products
- The role coconut water plays in their innovative product line
- Why resilience and adaptability are key in both sports and business
- How athletes can leverage their mindset to succeed as entrepreneurs
- The importance of mentorship, coaching, and community support
- James’s passion for empowering others with business and personal development skills
Connect with James Toale:
Connect with James Toale:
FB: https://www.facebook.com/jamesjimtoale/
https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61561198507425
---Connect with Alumni Direct:
Website: [alumnidirect.com]Instagram: [@alumnidirect]( / alumnidirect
Facebook: [Alumni Direct]( / alumnidirect LinkedIn: [Alumni Direct]( / alumnidirect If you’re ready to start building your network, connecting with fellow athletes, and unlocking resources to help you thrive beyond the game, visit [alumnidirect.com] today. Join a community that’s here to support you every step of the way.
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