Episode 9: Breaking Barriers, Building Dreams – Dr. Marjorie Herrera Lewis and the GFFL

In this episode of the Global Flag Football League Podcast, we’re joined by award-winning author, journalist, and Commissioner of the GFFL, Dr. Marjorie Herrera Lewis.

Dr. Lewis is a true trailblazer in the world of sports. As the first woman beat writer to cover the Dallas Cowboys, a former college football coach, and the bestselling author of When the Men Were Gone, her career has been defined by breaking boundaries and championing untold stories. She shares the inspiring journey that led her from the press box to the sidelines and now to the front office of the GFFL.

We explore Marjorie’s groundbreaking novel based on the true story of a woman who coached football during World War II, her coaching experience at Texas Wesleyan University, and her vision for the GFFL as a platform that empowers athletes and expands opportunity across the globe.

It’s a powerful conversation with a pioneering leader whose legacy continues to shape the game, on and off the field.

How to follow Dr. Marjorie Herrera Lewis

https://marjorieherreralewis.com/

https://www.linkedin.com/in/marjorie-herrera-lewis-doctor-of-arts-4020222/

https://www.amazon.com/When-Men-Were-Gone-Novel/dp/0062836056

Follow the Global Flag Football League:

Website: https://globalflagfootball.footballshift.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559751636870

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/journeymen-productions-llc/posts/?feedView=all

IG: https://www.instagram.com/gffl.pro/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2sgJyq3P13ZpnFX7NmyNjQ

Show Notes

[1:38] Marjorie shares what it was like entering the male-dominated world of sports journalism in the 1980s, the challenges she faced, and how the industry has evolved for women since then.

[3:20] Becoming the first female beat writer to cover the Dallas Cowboys, the high-pressure moments that came with breaking new ground, and how she navigated the spotlight in a male-dominated environment.

[6:26] The unique story of how the opportunity to coach college football came about, what inspired her to make the leap from journalism to the gridiron, and how that transition deepened her impact on the sport.

[11:29] The inspiration behind her award-winning novel When the Men Were Gone, a story rooted in true events, and how her passion for sports and storytelling converged to bring an overlooked piece of history to life.

[17:29] What drew her to the Global Flag Football League and why the rise of flag football represents an exciting new chapter for the sport and its accessibility.

[20:36] The importance of visibility and representation for young women in sports, and how the GFFL is paving the way for future generations of female athletes.

[25:10] Discusses her role at DBTV, what drew her to the platform.

[26:44] How listeners can get involved with the GFFL, support its mission, and stay updated on upcoming events and opportunities.

Episode 7: From NFL Star to Flag Football Innovator – Reuben Droughns Leads the Charge

In this episode of the Global Flag Football League Podcast, we’re joined by former NFL running back, Super Bowl champion, and now owner of the Denver Stallions in the GFFL, Reuben Droughns.

Reuben takes us through his remarkable journey—from his early days as a standout athlete in California, to leading the nation in rushing at Merced College, and making a major impact at the University of Oregon. We also explore his successful NFL career, where he had a breakout season with the Denver Broncos and capped it off with a Super Bowl win with the New York Giants.

But the story doesn’t end there. Reuben shares his transition into life after football, including his international coaching experience, and his passion for flag football. He explains why he’s so excited about the Global Flag Football League and how his unique perspective as a former pro athlete shapes his leadership of the Denver Stallions.

Reuben also offers insights into the growing global appeal of flag football and how it provides an inclusive alternative to traditional football. His vision for the future of the sport is both inspiring and transformative.

Get ready for an inspiring conversation as we dive into Reuben’s journey and his vision for flag football’s future!

Follow the Global Flag Football League:

Website: https://globalflagfootball.footballshift.com/

Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61559751636870

LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/journeymen-productions-llc/posts/?feedView=all

IG: https://www.instagram.com/gffl.pro/

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC2sgJyq3P13ZpnFX7NmyNjQ

Show Notes

[1:19] Reflecting on his upbringing and how football became a driving force in shaping his early life and ambitions.

[3:48] Reuben’s standout seasons at Merced Junior College, leading the nation in rushing and the impact it had on personal and athletic development.

[8:45] Transitioning from Merced Junior College to Division I football at Oregon, and the challenges and growth that came with it.

[11:06] Standout moments at Oregon, including multiple 200+ yard performances, and what made those games so memorable.

[12:12] Recalling favorite moments from his NFL career, from 1,000-yard seasons to the camaraderie in the locker room and a Super Bowl win with the Giants.

[18:18] The unique path taken after the NFL, including international coaching and continued involvement in football post-retirement.

[25:57] The inspiration behind joining the Global Flag Football League and what makes the league’s future so exciting.

[28:50] Sharing a former pro’s perspective on the rapid global growth of flag football and what the sport offers that traditional football may not.

[31:53] How playing and coaching at the highest levels provides a unique edge in leading as the owner of the Denver Stallions.

[33:20] How listeners and fans can connect with Reuben and learn more about the Denver Stallions.