Sports 'N Torts

Hosted by Joshua Stein

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210

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Jun 2026

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About the show

Sports ’N Torts isn’t just another sports podcast or another legal show—it’s where the two worlds collide. Each week, host Joshua Stein sits down with lawyers, judges, business leaders, and athletes to explore the connections between sports, law, and life. From breaking down marquee matchups like March Madness, the Masters, Braves baseball, and Georgia football, to diving deep into the business of running a successful law practice, the conversations are lively, personal, and always insightful. Listeners get more than scores and case law—they get stories. Guests share how they built their careers, the challenges they’ve faced, and the lessons learned both inside the courtroom and on the playing field. Along the way, Joshua brings his own perspective as a trial lawyer, coach, and passionate fan to keep the conversations fun, relatable, and engaging. If you’re looking for a podcast that mixes big-game previews with behind-the-scenes looks at the legal industry, plus a healthy dose of business strategy and community, pull up a chair. Sports ’N Torts is your front-row seat to the conversations where sports and law intersect.

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September 1, 20261 hr 10 min

Ep 212 - College Football Is Back! 2026 Season Preview with Jason Ganz & Laurence Kessler

College football is back—and so are Jason Ganz and Laurence Kessler for our annual Sports ‘N Torts season preview. We kick off Season 6 by trying to make sense of the current state of college football: NIL, the transfer portal, revenue sharing, eligibility lawsuits, NFL players trying to return to college, and the increasingly legitimate question of whether anyone is actually in charge. From there, we turn our attention to Georgia and break down Gunner Stockton, the running backs, questions at wide receiver, a loaded tight end room, an offensive line we think could be the best in the country, and a defense loaded with future NFL talent. Then we take the full tour around college football: Is Texas overrated again? Is Alabama still Alabama? What does Ole Miss look like without Lane Kiffin? Can Kiffin turn LSU into an immediate contender? Is Penn State actually going to prove Jason and Laurence right for once? Is Notre Dame getting special treatment? And has the Big Ten officially caught—or passed—the SEC? Finally, we put the predictions in the vault: 12-team playoff fields, national championship picks, Heisman candidates and a few takes we're almost certain to regret. Somehow, after five years and 15 opportunities to pick a national champion, all three of us are once again riding with the Georgia Bulldogs. College football is back. We are so back. SHOW NOTES In this episode: The State of College Football — NIL, revenue sharing, the portal, eligibility lawsuits and why college football may finally need a commissioner NFL players returning to college?! — somehow, this is now a real conversation Has the chaos created parity? — Indiana's national championship and whether the Wild West has actually been good for the sport Georgia 2026 Preview — Gunner Stockton's next step, QB depth, Nate Frazier and the running backs Georgia's biggest offensive question — who emerges at wide receiver? Loaded at TE and OL — why we think Georgia could have the best offensive line in college football Georgia's defense — KJ Bolden, Ellis Robinson, Chris Cole, Elijah Griffin, Gabe Harris and a potentially nasty front seven SEC Preview — Texas/Arch Manning, Alabama, Ole Miss/Trinidad Chambliss, Oklahoma, Florida, Vanderbilt, LSU/Lane Kiffin and Auburn Around the Country — Ohio State, Oregon, Indiana, Penn State, Miami, Notre Dame and the perpetually drunk Big 12 Notre Dame gets special treatment? — Jason has thoughts. Lots of them. Playoff Picks — we each build our 12-team field National Championship Picks — spoiler: we're Georgia homers and make no apologies for it Heisman Picks — Dante Moore, Jeremiah Smith, Trinidad Chambliss, Gunner Stockton, Arch Manning and more Sucker Bet returns — Laurence gives his Week 0 and Week 1 plays Where are they now? — Jimbo Fisher and Jermaine Burton Plus: Hunker Vodka, Jason's outstanding Texas boating ticket, Hugh “Freezus,” Joey Freshwater, the Penn State pledge story, “the Big 12 is still drunk,” and plenty more. As always, this podcast is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www.jsteinlawfirm.com.

June 4, 20261 hr 7 min

Ep 211 - The Lawyer Translator Episode: Plaintiff vs. Defense with Kevin Shires and Rob Hammers, Real Talk & the Road to the 2026 World Cup

Repeat guests and fan favorites Kevin Shires and Rob Hammers return to the Sports ’N Torts podcast for one of the most entertaining and insightful episodes to close out Season 5. Josh, Kevin, and Rob dive into the unique friendships that can develop between plaintiff and defense attorneys despite battling on opposite sides of cases for years. The conversation covers professionalism in litigation, trial strategy, mediation culture, authenticity with juries, memorable courtroom moments, and the importance of credibility and collegiality in the legal profession. The episode also includes hilarious “what lawyers really mean” translations between plaintiff and defense attorneys, stories from trials and mediations, and Kevin’s unforgettable courtroom wardrobe malfunction. In the second half, the conversation pivots to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where Kevin and Rob break down: host cities, marquee matches, Team USA expectations, global soccer fan culture, favorites like Spain, France, and Argentina, and why the World Cup is unlike any sporting event on earth. This episode is equal parts legal insight, sports passion, friendship, and comedy — and a perfect way to close out Season 5. Show Notes On This Episode Why plaintiff and defense lawyers can fiercely compete while still building real friendships The importance of professionalism and credibility in litigation How Kevin Shires gave Rob Hammers his first legal job during the financial collapse of 2008 Lessons young lawyers need to hear about collegiality and authenticity Memorable trial stories, mediation battles, and courtroom disasters “What lawyers are actually saying” segment The evolution of mediation and litigation post-COVID Why juries respond to vulnerability and honesty 2026 FIFA World Cup preview Team USA expectations and World Cup storylines Why Atlanta is positioned to become a premier soccer city The global culture and atmosphere surrounding the World Cup Memorable Moments “You can disagree without being disagreeable.” Kevin and Rob discuss how professionalism and trust create better outcomes for lawyers, clients, and cases alike. The Interview Story Kevin shares the story of hiring Rob during the 2008 financial collapse after Rob ended the interview with: “Just give me a chance and I won’t let you down.” Trial Lessons & Authenticity The group discusses: adapting during trial, owning weaknesses, reading jurors, and why authenticity matters more than perfection. The “What Lawyers Really Mean” Segment One of the funniest parts of the episode: “I’ve got a very reasonable client.” “That’s all the authority I have.” “We’d really like to avoid litigation.” “Medical specials don’t tell the full story.” “We’re open to mediation.” World Cup Discussion Highlights 2026 World Cup Overview Expanded 48-team format U.S., Canada, and Mexico as host nations Atlanta’s major role in the tournament Why soccer’s popularity continues to grow in America Teams & Players to Watch Spain’s rising young star Lamine Yamal Kylian Mbappé and France’s championship hopes Lionel Messi chasing one more World Cup run Team USA expectations and why a quarterfinal appearance would be a major success Favorite Quotes “You can disagree without being disagreeable.” “Jurors can see through the stuff you’re selling.” “If your defense requires a lengthy explanation, there’s no way a jury is going to buy it.” “You go to mediation for two reasons: to settle the case or to find out why you’re trying it.” “The World Cup is unlike any sporting event on earth.” Guests Kevin Shires Veteran Georgia defense attorney, trial lawyer, world traveler, and passionate soccer fan. Rob Hammers Founder of the Hammers Law Firm and accomplished Georgia plaintiff’s attorney focusing on helping injured Georgians. As always, this episode is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www.jsteinlawfirm.com.

May 28, 202659 min

Ep 210 - Inside Intennse: The New Fast-Paced Professional Tennis League Challenging Everything About Traditional Tennis with J.Y. Aubone

What if tennis didn’t have to be slow, quiet, individual, and hard for casual fans to follow? In this episode of Sports ’N Torts , Josh sits down with J.Y. Aubone — Director of Player & Coach Relations and media host/commentator for Intennse Tennis— to discuss how a new league is trying to completely reinvent the sport of tennis. This conversation goes far beyond just a new format. JY opens up about growing up in a tennis family, competing at a high level at Florida State University, walking away from the sport to work in finance, and eventually finding his way back through a startup league built around speed, energy, community, and entertainment. Josh and JY dive into why traditional tennis has struggled to connect with modern audiences, why so many athletes burn out, and how Intennse is trying to create a more team-oriented and joyful experience for players and fans alike. They also discuss youth sports culture, athlete psychology, the pressure of professional tennis travel, the future of sports broadcasting, and the importance of building environments where competitors can actually thrive. The episode also features behind-the-scenes insight into JY’s role as an Intennse commentator, how he prepares for broadcasts, and why storytelling matters in building a new sports league from the ground up. Whether you’re a tennis fan, sports parent, entrepreneur, coach, athlete, or just someone interested in innovation and high performance, this is one of the most thoughtful and entertaining conversations yet on Sports ’N Torts . Show Notes Topics Discussed: What exactly Intennse is and how it differs from traditional tennis Team-based co-ed tennis with substitutions and fast-paced scoring Why tennis may be losing casual fans The loneliness and burnout of traditional tennis culture Why “joy” may be returning to the court through team competition JY’s tennis journey from childhood through Florida State University Leaving tennis for a career in finance and returning to the sport Coaching professional tennis player Reilly Opelka The hidden grind of professional tennis life Youth sports burnout and how parents can better support young athletes Why unstructured play and time away from sports matter The mental fragility of elite athletes What separates great players like Carlos Alcaraz and Jannik Sinner The future of sports broadcasting and commentary How JY prepares to call Intennse matches Why personality and storytelling matter in sports Pickleball vs tennis and what traditional tennis can learn from it Memorable Moments & Quotes “Tennis doesn’t have to be lonely.” “Joy is back on the court.” “Most tennis players love playing tennis… but don’t love watching it.” “The sport is not the most important thing in the world.” “You don’t get those highest highs without some horrific moments before.” “Athletes perform better when they feel supported, not just managed.” “We’re not trying to replace traditional tennis — we’re creating a different experience.” “What Intennse is building is closer to a sports entertainment experience than traditional tennis.” Rapid Fire Highlights JY discusses: Why athlete confidence is more fragile than a tennis racket What traditional tennis still gets wrong Why the best matches in tennis are often never shown on TV His thoughts on pickleball’s explosion Why tennis needs more personality and less gatekeeping The difference between playing not to lose and playing to win As always, this episode is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www.jsteinlawfirm.com

May 21, 202658 min

Ep 209 - Pebble Beach with the Boys: Adult Disneyland, Golf, Gambling, and a Hole-in-One with Marc Glickman

On this episode of Sports ’N Torts , Joshua Stein is joined by his longtime friend Marc Glickman for a full recap of their unforgettable 8 man golf trip to Pebble Beach Golf Links and the Monterey Peninsula for Marc and Mike Peckham's 50th Birthday. What starts as a conversation about bucket-list golf quickly turns into a hilarious and detailed breakdown of one of the most memorable sports weekends either of them has ever experienced. The two relive every part of the trip — from TSA chaos during a government shutdown, to arriving at Pebble Beach for the first time, to walking the iconic 18th fairway after dark with beers in hand. They discuss the surreal feeling of standing on golf holes they had only seen on television, the unmatched beauty of the Pacific coastline, and the pressure of trying to actually play well on one of the most famous courses in the world. Marc shares the story of his incredible opening round at Pebble Beach, including a front-nine 37, clutch bunker shots, and a closing birdie on the iconic 18th hole. The conversation also dives into the strategy, nerves, camaraderie, gambling, caddie advice, and mental battles that come with a true golf buddies trip. The highlight of the episode comes during the group’s round at Poppy Hills Golf Course when Marc records the first hole-in-one of his life on the 11th hole — a perfectly struck 146-yard seven iron that disappeared into the cup. Josh and Marc relive the moment shot-by-shot, including the sprint to the green, the celebration that followed, and the legendary “hole-in-one tax” that carried into the evening. The episode is part golf storytelling, part friendship documentary, and part celebration of why experiences like these matter. Whether you love golf, sports travel, or simply hearing friends relive a once-in-a-lifetime trip, this episode captures the joy, humor, and emotion of an unforgettable week. Show Notes In This Episode: The crew’s chaotic travel day during the government shutdown First impressions arriving at Pebble Beach Golf Links Why Pebble Beach feels like “adult Disneyland” Walking the iconic 18th fairway after hours Staying directly beside the 1st tee box at Pebble Strategy and nerves before the opening tee shot Breaking down every memorable shot from the Pebble round The pressure of trying to play well on a bucket-list course Marc’s incredible front-nine 37 at Pebble Beach Favorite holes on the property, including 6, 7, 8, 17, and 18 The famous cliffside approach shots that TV cannot properly capture Why caddie advice at Pebble is non-negotiable The legendary bunker saves and “Saddam” references throughout the round The match-play battle between the group Dinner and storytelling at The Tap Room Why Spyglass Hill Golf Course may secretly rival Pebble The beauty and history of Poppy Hills Golf Course Marc’s first-ever hole-in-one on the 11th hole at Poppy Hills Sprinting to the green after the ace The unwritten rule of buying drinks after a hole-in-one Why golf trips with lifelong friends become core memories As always, this episode is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www. jsteinlawfirm.com.

May 7, 20261 hr 11 min

Ep 208 - Preconditioning the Win: Mastering Mediation While Enjoying Life and Embracing its Final Lasts with Greg Parent

In this returning fan-favorite episode, Josh sits down with mediator Greg Parent for a wide-ranging conversation that blends law, life, and perspective in a way only Sports ‘N Torts can. Greg pulls back the curtain on what really makes mediation work—not legal brilliance, but human connection, emotional intelligence, and preparation before anyone ever walks into the room. He shares why the best mediators act more like performers than negotiators, how “preconditioning” a case can make or break a mediation, and what lawyers get wrong about position statements. But this episode goes far beyond the courtroom. Greg opens up about his personal health transformation, losing over 60 pounds and challenging the stigma around weight-loss medication. He also reflects on fatherhood, the emotional weight of “final lasts” with kids heading off to college, and why being present as a parent matters more than anything in your career. From courtside seats at Atlanta Hawks games to UNC vs. Georgia family rivalries, this episode is equal parts practical insight, humor, and real-life perspective. If you’re a lawyer, parent, or just someone trying to do life a little better—this one hits home. 📝 Show Notes 🔹 Guest Introduction Greg Parent returns to the podcast—award-winning mediator with Miles Mediation & Arbitration Known across Atlanta’s legal community for his energy, authenticity, and results UNC superfan, Hawks courtside regular, and self-proclaimed “people-first” mediator ⚖️ Mediation Masterclass: What Actually Works Mediation is performance, not just negotiation Greg compares mediators to rock stars and late-night hosts The goal: make each client feel seen, heard, and understood immediately You have 30 seconds to win trust Especially with plaintiffs experiencing one of the worst days of their lives Human connection > legal arguments EQ over IQ Lawyers already know the law Mediators add value through perspective, communication, and emotional awareness 🔥 The “Preconditioning” Strategy (Game-Changer) Borrowed from Greg’s Tesla analogy: prepare the “battery” before mediation Key takeaway: Talk to opposing counsel BEFORE mediation Align expectations Avoid “let’s just see where they’re at” mediations Josh’s approach: Inviting opposing counsel to lunch early in the case Builds rapport → reduces friction → better outcomes 📄 What Makes a Great Mediation Statement? What Greg actually wants: Clear facts of the case Unique issues or nuances Client personality + challenges Anything that impacts how he should approach the room What he does NOT need: 20+ pages of legal exposition Basic black-letter law 🧠 Inside the Mediator’s Mind Greg can identify weaknesses instantly (“Achilles heel” analogy) But the real skill is finding common ground, not exploiting weaknesses Transparency builds trust—even when delivering tough messages ⚖️ Mediation vs. Arbitration Mediation: facilitator (assistant coach) Arbitration: decision-maker (judge) In mediation, the lawyer always has final say—mediator guides, not decides 💪 Greg’s Health Transformation Lost 60+ pounds (263 → ~201) Uses Tirzepatide + disciplined lifestyle changes Tracks nutrition, lifts weights, plays pickleball, stays active Key mindset shift: Addressing stigma around weight-loss medications Comparing it to addiction recovery—both deserve support, not judgment 👔 Evolution of the Mediator Look Transition from suit-and-tie to more approachable style Goal: reduce intimidation, especially for plaintiffs “Be Mr. Rogers, not Gordon Gekko” 🎓 Mentorship & Giving Back Greg embraces role as mentor (“Luke Skywalker to Yoda transition”) Helps younger lawyers avoid common mistakes Focus on professionalism, relationships, and long-term reputation 👨‍👧‍👦 Parenting & “The Final Lasts” One of the most powerful parts of the episode: Greg’s son at UNC, daughter heading to Georgia Emotional reflection on final games, final seasons, final moments Key quote takeaway: “You don’t have to go to practice—you GET to go to practice.” Importance of being present Coaching, photographing, supporting kids Perspective shift that changed everything 🏀 Sports, Life & Fun UNC fandom vs. new Georgia household dynamics Hawks courtside experiences and networking Why shared experiences (sports, school, family) build stronger connections 🎯 Key Takeaways Mediation is a people business first Preconditioning a case is critical Relationships reduce friction and improve outcomes Authenticity beats transactional behavior Success in law doesn’t mean missing life at home As always, this episode is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www.jsteinlawfirm.com.

April 30, 20261 hr 1 min

Ep 207 - How to Build a 30-Year Legal Career: Why Law Is Sales—and Why the Suit and Office Space Still Matter with Randy Kessler

In this episode of Sports ’N Torts , Joshua Stein sits down with Randy Kessler, one of Atlanta’s most respected family law attorneys, to unpack what it takes to build a 30+ year legal career rooted in reputation, relationships, and consistency . Randy shares how he stumbled into family law early in his career and turned it into a thriving, specialized practice—long before specialization was common. The conversation explores everything from trial strategy and client psychology to media appearances, LinkedIn growth, and personal branding , along with the real-world realities of representing high-profile and celebrity clients. They also dive into Randy’s unique approach to law firm culture—including building a mock courtroom inside his office , investing in client experience, and surrounding himself with smart lawyers to improve decision-making. Along the way, Randy offers candid insight into: How lawyers are really “in sales” at every level Why authenticity and relationships drive referrals How to manage emotional clients in high-stakes cases The importance of professionalism (including his signature suit-and-tie approach) And why doing the right thing—even when it costs you—pays off in the long run The episode blends legal strategy, business insights, and personal stories —including courtside Hawks experiences, media moments, and lessons learned from decades in practice. 📌 SHOW NOTES 🔹 Building a Career in Family Law Randy’s early start and why family law “clicked” Finding a niche before specialization became common The reward of helping clients through the lowest moments of their lives “We see good people when they’re acting their worst.” 🔹 Law Firm Strategy & Client Experience Why office space still matters in a remote world Creating confidence and comfort for clients Building an in-office courtroom for trial preparation Using practice to make real court feel easier for clients 🔹 Case Strategy & Client Management Starting every case with a long-term plan: “Have a plan for the day after.” Balancing emotional clients with rational strategy Why “how you say things matters more than what you say” Encouraging clients to think beyond the litigation and into their future 🔹 Settlement Philosophy & Human Psychology Using small gestures to create long-term outcomes The power of being reasonable—even in conflict Why “doing something extra” can pay dividends later The role of emotional intelligence in legal outcomes 🔹 Marketing, Referrals & Relationships Why law is fundamentally a sales profession Building a practice through genuine relationships “People like sending business to their friends.” The importance of being accountable to referral sources 🔹 Media, Branding & LinkedIn Growth How Randy became an early LinkedIn influencer The role of media in building authority and credibility Why consistency matters more than perfection Understanding that media often needs experts to validate their stories 🔹 Handling Media & High-Profile Cases Best practices for dealing with press and public statements Why “no comment” can sometimes hurt more than help The importance of preparation and timing in public messaging Protecting client confidentiality in high-profile matters 🔹 Professionalism & Personal Brand Why Randy still wears a suit and tie every day Leading by example within a firm The importance of presentation and first impressions “No one’s going to be upset at me for wearing a suit.” 🔹 Building & Scaling a Law Firm Hiring smart people to improve decision-making Creating a collaborative, team-based approach The value of checks and balances in client representation Why working multiple lawyers on fewer cases leads to better outcomes 🔹 Teaching, Writing & Giving Back Teaching trial skills at Emory Law Learning from students as much as teaching them Writing books to simplify complex legal concepts “It’s not the knowledge of the law—it’s how you use it.” 🔹 Sports, Networking & Lifestyle Courtside Hawks experiences and relationship-building Using sports and shared experiences to connect with clients The impact of memorable experiences on long-term relationships 🔹 Rapid Fire Highlights More nervous: courtroom > live TV Daily habit: walking for mental clarity Key trait for success: consistency Ongoing mindset: still learning, still improving 🔥 KEY TAKEAWAYS Reputation compounds over time—but only if built intentionally Relationships—not marketing tactics—drive the best referrals Emotional intelligence is just as important as legal knowledge Consistency beats talent over the long run Professionalism still matters—even in a more casual world Success often comes from being in the right rooms—and being prepared when you are As always, this podcast is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, Ga - www.jsteinlawfirm.com.

April 23, 202659 min

Ep 206: Trial by Fire - Inside Morgan & Morgan, Big 6 Marathons and What Would Harvey Specter Do with Hector Rojas, Jr.

In this episode of Sports ’N Torts , Joshua Stein sits down with trial attorney Hector Rojas, Jr. partner at Morgan & Morgan in Atlanta, for a wide-ranging conversation on law, mindset, and personal growth. Hector shares his journey from immigrating from Venezuela and growing up in Cobb County to becoming a trial lawyer handling serious injury and wrongful death cases. He opens up about his transition from insurance defense to plaintiff’s work, the realities of working inside one of the largest personal injury firms in the country, and how he quickly stepped into a leadership role running the firm’s Marietta office. The conversation highlights Hector’s $19 million jury verdict—including the critical decision to turn down a $10 million pre-trial offer—and what it takes to bet on your case and your client. Beyond the courtroom, Hector discusses how endurance sports, including completing all six World Marathon Majors, have shaped his mindset, discipline, and approach to adversity. The episode also touches on the cultural significance of Venezuela’s World Baseball Classic championship, the power of sports to unite, and the importance of building a personal brand as a modern trial lawyer. 📝 Show Notes 🔹 Background & Journey Hector’s upbringing in Marietta after immigrating from Venezuela Attending Campbell High School, Kennesaw State, and Georgia State Law Early career path and how networking led to key opportunities 🔹 From Defense to Plaintiff Work Starting out in insurance defense and learning how cases are evaluated Transitioning to Morgan & Morgan after a deposition encounter Why legal careers are rarely linear and how relationships drive opportunity 🔹 Inside Morgan & Morgan Structure of one of the largest PI firms in the country Running the Marietta office and managing a team of attorneys and staff Breaking the “settlement mill” stereotype and focusing on litigation Requirement to try cases and building trial experience early 🔹 The $19 Million Verdict Facts of the case involving a catastrophic crash and wrongful death Turning down a $10M pre-trial offer Client-focused decision making and risk evaluation Trial strategy, jury presentation, and key moments Verdict outcome and impact on Hector’s career and reputation 🔹 Trial Lawyer Mindset Learning through long hours early in practice Developing confidence through repetition and experience Mentoring younger attorneys and building a team 🔹 Marketing & Personal Brand Differences between large firm marketing and individual branding Importance of social media and staying top-of-mind Community-based vs. mass marketing approaches 🔹 Endurance Sports & Mental Toughness Completing all six World Marathon Majors Training challenges while practicing law Mental vs. physical demands of marathon running Using running as a way to process grief and maintain focus 🔹 Sports & Culture Venezuela’s World Baseball Classic championship The emotional impact of sports on a country and community Why the tournament was bigger than baseball 🎯 Key Takeaways Careers are built through relationships, not resumes Trial experience is the ultimate differentiator in personal injury law Big results come from disciplined preparation and calculated risk Mental toughness—whether in trial or endurance sports—is a learned skill Building a personal brand is essential, regardless of firm size As always, this episode is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www.jsteinlawfirm.com

April 15, 20261 hr 0 min

Ep 205: More Than Football: Raising Kids, Handling Pressure, Lessons Sports Should Teach and Life After the Game with Former NFL Safety Nick Ferguson

In this powerful and deeply insightful episode of Sports ‘N Torts , host Joshua Stein sits down with former Georgia Tech and Denver Broncos NFL safety Nick Ferguson for a conversation that goes far beyond football. From his journey as an undrafted player grinding his way to a 10-year NFL career, to his candid reflections on mental health, identity, and life after the game, Nick delivers a message that resonates with athletes, parents, and professionals alike. This episode dives into the mental battles behind performance , the right way to raise young athletes , and the often overlooked challenges of transitioning when the game ends . Nick shares personal stories of adversity, including injury, loss, and career uncertainty, and how those moments shaped his purpose today—helping others navigate life’s toughest challenges. Whether you’re raising kids in sports, building a career, or redefining yourself after a major life transition, this episode is packed with perspective, honesty, and inspiration. 📝 Show Notes 🔥 From Undrafted to NFL Veteran Nick’s unconventional path: CFL, NFL Europe, and finally the NFL Why career paths are never linear The importance of perseverance, sacrifice, and being ready when opportunity comes “Sometimes you have to make your own light when there isn’t one” 🧠 The Mental Side of Sports (and Life) The constant internal battle: you vs. you How athletes deal with pressure, injury, and uncertainty Personal adversity: injury + loss of a teammate at a pivotal life moment Why mental strength is learned, not innate Tools, habits, and mindset shifts to overcome dark periods 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Raising Young Athletes the Right Way What parents are getting wrong in youth sports today The dangers of early pressure, comparison, and living through your kids Why character and academics must come first Teaching kids: How to compete How to be great teammates How to handle failure 👉 Key takeaway: It’s not about winning—it’s about what they learn when they don’t 🧭 Life After Football: The Identity Shift The reality most people don’t see: Loss of identity Financial pressure Family challenges Why many athletes struggle after retirement The importance of: Support systems Purpose beyond the game Staying connected 👉 “Football was the outlet… and then suddenly it’s gone.” 🎤 Reinvention: From NFL Player to Media Voice Why Nick initially hated the media —and what changed Transitioning into broadcasting and storytelling Choosing authenticity over negativity Using his platform to: Educate Inspire Humanize athletes 💡 Leadership, Work Ethic & Life Lessons Why hard work still wins at the highest level The danger of complacency (in sports, career, and life) Learning from elite competitors like Tom Brady and Peyton Manning “What you do when no one is watching defines you” 🏆 Powerful Takeaways Success is not defined by money or status—it’s defined by impact Mental health is a lifelong process, not a one-time fix Kids need guidance, not pressure Identity should never be tied to just one thing Life is about learning, adjusting, and continuing to compete 🎯 Why You Should Listen This episode isn’t just for football fans. It’s for: Parents raising young athletes Professionals dealing with pressure and identity Anyone navigating change, adversity, or reinvention 👉 If you’ve ever faced pressure, self-doubt, or a major life transition—this conversation will hit home. 🔗 Where to Find Nick Ferguson Stay connected with Nick Ferguson and follow his work in media, mentorship, and storytelling: 📱 Social Media Instagram: @nickferguson_25 → Insights on football, mindset, leadership, and life lessons 🎥 Content & Podcast YouTube: The Nick Ferg Show → Football breakdowns, commentary, and real conversations Podcast: Undrafted → Stories and lessons about overcoming adversity—not just in sports, but in life 🌐 Website His personal site (nickferguson.co) features: Speaking and media work Background and career highlights As always, this episode is powered by J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www.jsteinlawfirm.com

April 2, 20261 hr 5 min

Ep 204: Blue Sky Thinking: Building a Firm Beyond Your Name + The Reality of Contracts, Non-Competes & Business Disputes with Mitesh Patel

In this episode of Sports ’N Torts , Joshua Stein sits down with Atlanta business lawyer and entrepreneur Mitesh Patel, founder of Blue Sky Law. What starts as a conversation about business disputes quickly evolves into a deeper discussion about identity, risk, and the courage it takes to bet on yourself. Mitesh shares his journey from growing up in a small Appalachian town in East Tennessee—where outdoor life and early responsibility shaped his mindset—to grinding through 50 cold calls a day as a recruiter, to ultimately finding his path in law. After gaining experience in Big Law and navigating a partnership split, Mitesh made the leap to start his own firm in 2020—proving that the hardest part of entrepreneurship isn’t the work, it’s the decision to begin. Joshua and Mitesh explore the parallels in their own career paths, the realities of building and running boutique law firms, and the importance of relationships in growing a practice. They also dive into practical business law insights—from contracts and non-competes to the risks of relying on DIY legal solutions and AI-generated documents. Whether you’re a lawyer considering going out on your own, a business owner navigating complex decisions, or someone thinking about taking a leap in your career, this episode is a powerful reminder: there’s no perfect time—just the decision to bet on yourself. 🔑 Key Themes & Takeaways Betting on Yourself: The hardest part of starting a firm isn’t the work—it’s making the decision to take the leap. From Rejection to Resilience: Making 50 cold calls a day built the foundation for business development and client relationships. Big Law Reality Check: High compensation comes with high demands—and often, misalignment with long-term goals. Partnership Lessons: Business partnerships can mirror personal relationships—and when they break down, the consequences can be significant. Building a Brand: Choosing the name “Blue Sky Law” reflects optimism, longevity, and a vision beyond the individual. Relationships Drive Business: High-level clients (CEOs, founders) rely on trusted referrals—not internet searches. AI & Legal Work: Tools like ChatGPT can be helpful, but often create more work when used improperly—especially for contracts. ⚖️ Practical Legal Insights Handshake agreements may be valid—but are difficult to prove and enforce. Emails and texts can become evidence if no formal contract exists. Non-competes in Georgia are enforceable when properly structured (scope, geography, time). NDAs work—but only if enforced. Most disputes come down to two things: what was promised and what was paid. DIY contracts (LegalZoom/AI) often cost more to fix than doing it right the first time. 💡 Memorable Quotes “The hardest part of entrepreneurship isn’t starting—it’s deciding to start.” “If you train enough, you don’t think—you just act.” “Rejection builds toughness. Cold calling will either make you or break you.” “Most business disputes aren’t about what’s written—it’s about what’s missing.” 👤 About the Guest Mitesh Patel is the founder and principal of Blue Sky Law, an Atlanta-based firm focused on business law, mergers & acquisitions, governance, and partnership disputes. His clients range from growing companies to privately held businesses generating hundreds of millions in annual revenue. 🎧 Why You Should Listen You’re a lawyer thinking about starting your own firm You want to understand how business disputes actually happen You’re interested in the intersection of law, business, and entrepreneurship You want practical, real-world legal insights without the jargon As always, this episode is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www.jsteinlawfirm.com.

March 26, 20261 hr 0 min

Ep 203: From the WBC to Opening Day: Can the Braves Keep Up? (2026 MLB Preview) with Josh Gernatt and Casey Collins

MLB Opening Day is here and the annual Sports 'N Torts MLB/Braves preview is here to get you ready. Host Joshua Stein is joined once again by Josh Gernatt and Casey Collins for a wide-ranging, candid, and entertaining breakdown of the 2026 MLB season , with a focus on the Atlanta Braves . The crew dives into an unfortunate bearish outlook on the Braves , driven by mounting pitching injuries, roster uncertainty, and the fallout from Jurickson Profar’s suspension. Despite concerns, there’s still optimism around a talented core featuring Ronald Acuña Jr., Austin Riley, Matt Olson, and Ozzie Albies , along with intriguing developments like Drake Baldwin’s rise and a more flexible lineup under new manager Walt Weiss . Beyond Atlanta, the conversation expands to: The Dodgers’ dominance and its impact on competitive balance in MLB Key league-wide storylines and offseason moves Early World Series predictions The growing popularity and impact of the World Baseball Classic , which captivated both fans and younger audiences The episode blends analysis, humor, and real fan perspective—making it the perfect kickoff to the 2026 baseball season. 📝 Show Notes ⚾ Braves Season Preview A rare bearish outlook on the Braves heading into 2026 Pitching concerns dominate : Spencer Strider injury update Ongoing rotation instability Questions around depth and durability Chris Sale returns as the anchor of the rotation Bryce Elder’s role as a necessary innings-eater Emerging arm to watch: Didier Fuentes 🧠 New Manager, New Approach Transition from Brian Snitker to Walt Weiss Debate: continuity vs. fresh perspective Expect more: Lineup rotation Rest days for key players Flexibility vs. traditional consistency 🔥 Offensive Outlook Still projected as a top-tier lineup —if healthy Key players: Ronald Acuña Jr. (MVP-level expectations) Austin Riley (bounce-back candidate) Matt Olson (consistent power bat) Ozzie Albies (health = production) X-Factor: Michael Harris II Breakout potential: Drake Baldwin 🚫 Jurickson Profar Fallout Suspension shakes roster construction Raises concerns about: Front office decision-making Clubhouse trust Long-term contract implications linger 🔄 Bullpen Strength Potential team strength in 2026 Key additions and returners: Raisel Iglesias Robert Suarez Strategy: multiple high-leverage arms vs. single closer 📺 Braves Vision & Viewing Changes New direct-to-consumer streaming model ~$100 season package option Shift away from traditional regional networks 🌎 Around Major League Baseball 🏆 Dodgers & League Imbalance Dodgers remain the team to beat Heavy spending + deferred contracts raise concerns about: Competitive balance Potential future lockout Discussion of salary cap + floor 🔄 Notable Moves & Teams to Watch Blue Jays, Mariners, Royals highlighted as contenders Mets, Phillies remain strong in NL East Yankees, Astros still in the mix 🔮 Predictions & Betting Angles Braves win total (88.5): Lean under HR & RBI projections: Expect rebound from core hitters Division outlook: Braves likely Wild Card contender World Series picks: Dodgers vs. AL contender (Blue Jays / Mariners discussed) ⚖️ Rule Changes Introduction of Automated Ball-Strike (ABS) challenge system Mixed reactions: Accuracy vs. tradition Player-driven challenges Debate over impact on game flow and umpire role 🌍 World Baseball Classic Takeaways Massive success for the sport Increased engagement from: Younger fans Families Highlights: Global pride and passion Star players fully bought in Big takeaway: 👉 “Players playing for something bigger than contracts” 🎯 Final Thoughts Braves outlook: talented but uncertain MLB outlook: star-driven but structurally imbalanced WBC proves baseball’s global ceiling is higher than ever As always, this episode is powered by the J. Stein Law Firm - a personal injury law firm in Atlanta, GA - www.jsteinlawfirm.com.