From Major League Baseball to Keynote and Motivational Speaker : Ryan Lavarnway

In this episode of Athletes to Entrepreneurs: The Alumni Journey, host Rob Finkelstein sits down with former Major League Baseball player Ryan Lavarnway to explore his inspiring transition from professional sports to entrepreneurship. Ryan’s story is filled with valuable insights on personal growth, networking, and embracing change beyond the playing field.

After a successful career in the MLB, Ryan faced the challenges that many athletes encounter when stepping away from sports. He discusses how he navigated this transition and found new purpose through mentorship, public speaking, and coaching, all while leveraging the relationships he built during his playing days.

During their conversation, Ryan shares key takeaways, including:

- **The sense of purpose and community sports provide** – how his time in baseball shaped his personal development and prepared him for life after sports. - **The power of networking** – why building relationships during an athletic career is crucial for future opportunities. - **Overcoming identity challenges** – navigating the emotional and professional hurdles athletes face when moving on from their sport. - **Exploring new career paths** – how trying different opportunities helped Ryan discover his passions beyond baseball. - **The role of alumni connections** – how former teammates and colleagues have played a pivotal role in his journey. - **Education as a backup plan** – why athletes should prioritize learning and development alongside their sports career. - **Mentorship and public speaking** – the impact of sharing experiences and guiding the next generation of athletes. - **Embracing change** – the importance of being open to new opportunities and personal growth beyond sports.

Ryan’s journey serves as an inspiration for athletes looking to redefine their purpose and leverage their skills in the entrepreneurial world. His story highlights the importance of preparation, networking, and staying open to new possibilities.

Tune in to hear Ryan’s experiences, the lessons he’s learned, and the strategies he’s used to build a successful life after sports. This is an episode packed with insights you won’t want to miss!

👉 Connect with Ryan Lavarnway and stay updated on his journey.

https://www.linkedin.com/in/ryan-lavarnway/

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