Frequently the speakers at conferences provide a sugar-coated gloss about life in the sports business. This was NOT one of those times. The star studded lineup featured these women:
- Rushia Brown, Las Vegas Aces
- Morgan Shaw Parker, Atlanta Falcons
- Nicki Collen, Atlanta Dream
- Nicole Lynn, Young Money Sports
Each speaker spent considerable time talking about the obstacles that they had overcome. These included:
- Their own personal insecurities;
- Having to take a backseat to their husband’s coaching career;
- Trying to find the balance between lawyer, sports agent, wife and mom;
- Challenge in finding time to exercise;
- Ability to work and hire others to help them succeed;
- Difficulties in responding to the abuse or harassment of men
What was particularly impressive to me about this panel was how it truly felt conversational. We attended many, many events every year, and we frequently feel that the speakers are trying too hard to impress people with their credentials and their name-dropping. These women truly opened up to discuss how they were able to overcome these challenges. Instead of trying to impress the audience, you walked away feeling like you just had dinner/drinks with a good friend who is sharing their personal insight and giving you guidance. It was very refreshing and if you have the chance to hear from these women in the future, you should take advantage of that opportunity.
