Former College Football Player To Founder of Friends Wealth Management | John Fremont- Smith

In this episode of Athletes to Entrepreneurs, Rob Finkelstein sits down with John Fremont Smith—a former Boston University football standout turned financial leader and founder of Friends Wealth Management. From the locker room to Wall Street and now the world of NIL, John’s journey is all about building systems that truly support athletes—on and off the field.This isn't about John—it’s about the *mission*. As the **first Fiduciary in the NIL universe**, John and his team are committed, by law and by purpose, to acting in the *best interest of athletes*. With deep concern over the potential fallout from the NCAA vs. House ruling—especially for women and Olympic athletes—FRNIL was built to offer a sustainable financial path forward. Their approach? A community-driven investment strategy that aims to preserve scholarships, protect opportunity, and uplift the next generation of athletic talent.Whether you’re currently competing or have already stepped away from the game, this episode is filled with insight and inspiration on how to take control of your financial future and leverage your athletic background to thrive. Key Takeaways:- Sports Teach You More Than You Think: Discipline, focus, and resilience translate far beyond the game.- Your Injury Isn't the End: It could be the beginning of your next mission.- Athletes Deserve Better Financial Systems: Built around mentorship, not sales.- FRNIL is a Game-Changer: Especially for women’s and Olympic sports.- Financial Literacy is Your Power Tool: Learn it early, live it always.- Mentorship Matters: Surround yourself with those who’ve walked the path.- 85% of NFL Athletes Go Broke—Let’s Change That: The right support makes all the difference.- Networking is a Superpower**: Build your tribe while you're still playing.- AI + Purpose = The Future of Athlete Investing: Tech can help find and fuel athletic potential.- Athletes Supporting Athletes is the Way Forward: Together, we rise.---About John Fremont Smith:John Fremont Smith is a former Boston University football player who played on an undefeated championship team before a career-ending injury led him to pivot into finance. With over 25 years of experience as a licensed financial advisor, John is the **Founder of Friends Wealth Management** and Portfolio Manager of the First Revolutionary NIL Fund (FRNIL)**. His work centers on helping athletes transition successfully out of sports, gain financial literacy, and access investment strategies that build long-term wealth. John’s mission is clear: **support athletes through fiduciary-first financial guidance and empower them to thrive in life after the game**. “Let’s not make this about me—the mission is about the athlete.” Connect with John Fremont Smith:🌐 Website: [friendswealthmanagement.com](https://friendswealthmanagement.com/)💼 LinkedIn: [John Fremont Smith](http://linkedin.com/in/johnfremont-smith)📘 Facebook: [Friends Wealth Management](https://www.facebook.com/share/16Z2UyD2cy/?mibextid=wwXIfr)🔗 Connect with Alumni Direct:At **Alumni Direct**, we believe athletes deserve a platform that empowers their future beyond sports. Whether it’s networking, mentorship, or tools to grow your brand or business—we’re here to support the journey.📸 Instagram: [@AlumniDirect](https://www.instagram.com/alumnidirect)💼 LinkedIn: [Alumni Direct](https://www.linkedin.com/company/alumnidirect)📘 Facebook: [Alumni Direct](https://www.facebook.com/alumnidirect)You’ve got the mindset. Now let’s build the life to match.**#AthletesToEntrepreneurs #JohnFremontSmith #FriendsWealthManagement #FRNIL #LifeAfterSports #NILReady #AthleteTransition #FinancialLiteracyForAthletes #YouAreMoreThanAnAthlete #AthletesSupportingAthletes #FromTheLockerRoomToTheBoardRoom #AlumniDirect