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.

Episode 6: From National Champion to Flag Football Visionary – Albert Bentley’s Journey

In this episode of the Global Flag Football League Podcast, we sit down with former NFL running back, national champion, and owner of the South Florida Seahawks in the GFFL, Albert Bentley.

Albert takes us on a journey through his incredible career, from his early days at the University of Miami, where he scored the game-winning touchdown in the 1984 Orange Bowl to secure the Hurricanes’ first national title, to his time in both the USFL and NFL. He shares insights on his professional football career, including the differences between the USFL and NFL, what it was like to share the backfield with Eric Dickerson, and how the running back position has evolved over the years.

We also discuss his life after football and how he found his new passion in the Global Flag Football League. Albert explains why he’s excited about the potential of the league, his vision for the South Florida Seahawks, and how he’s helping to shape the future of flag football.

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

[1:20] Reflecting on what originally drew Albert to football and how his journey led him to the University of Miami.

[3:45] The historic moment in the 1984 Orange Bowl and what was going through his mind when he scored the game-winning touchdown to secure Miami’s first national title.

[7:11] The experience of beginning a professional career in the USFL with the Michigan Panthers and how it helped prepare for the transition to the NFL.

[8:20] Highlighting the key differences between playing in the USFL and the NFL, both on and off the field.

[11:53] Splitting time in the backfield with Hall of Famer Eric Dickerson and the lessons learned from playing alongside him.

[13:13] How the NFL has evolved over the years, with a focus on changes at the running back position.

[17:00] Transitioning from the NFL and the challenges of finding a new path beyond football.

[22:07] The inspiration behind getting involved with the Global Flag Football League as an owner and the excitement surrounding its potential.

[25:15] Discussing the vision for owning the South Florida Seahawks in the GFFL and the goals for the team's future.

[26:34] How listeners and fans can connect and learn more about the South Florida Seahawks and the opportunities within the GFFL.

Episode 5: From the Gridiron to the Georgia Warriors – The Evolution of Kendall Newson

In this episode of the Global Flag Football League Podcast, we’re joined by Kendall Newson, a former NFL wide receiver turned professional bass fisherman, entrepreneur, and now the proud owner of the Georgia Warriors in the GFFL.

Kendall takes us on a journey through every chapter of his extraordinary career. From his record-setting days at Middle Tennessee State and his time in the NFL with the Jaguars, Titans, and Dolphins, to the personal transformation that came after football, Kendall shares how he reinvented himself and found purpose beyond the game.

We dive into his passion for fishing, the founding of his nonprofit Teach a Child to Fish, and how he's inspiring the next generation through mentorship, outdoor exploration, and sports. Kendall also gives us an inside look at his newest endeavor with the Global Flag Football League, what led him to launch the Georgia Warriors and his big vision for growing the league and creating impact in the community.

How to follow Kendall Newson

https://tactf.org/

https://www.instagram.com/kendallnewson/

https://www.facebook.com/teachachildtofish.net

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

[1:22] Reflecting on Kendall’s time at Middle Tennessee State, the pivotal moments that shaped his career, and what contributed to his standout performance in leading the team to a Sun Belt Championship.

[5:13] Discussing Kendall’s transition from college to the NFL, along with standout memories from his time with the Jaguars, Titans, and Dolphins.

[9:50] Shifting from the NFL to Arena Football, the challenges of adapting to a new style of play, and his thoughts on how that transition compares to NFL players potentially moving to flag football.

[13:50] The transition from football to fishing, entrepreneurship, and leadership, the biggest challenges he faced in reinventing himself, and what fueled his motivation throughout the journey.

[21:57] Why community involvement is so important to Kendall and how giving back has remained a central part of his journey.

[27:09] The inspiration behind getting involved with the Global Flag Football League and what makes this opportunity so exciting.

[41:19] How to get involved with the Global Flag Football League, the Georgia Warriors, and other projects like "Teach a Child to Fish."

Episode 4: Elevating Athlete Wellness with GFFL’s Chief Wellness Officer, Dr. Leneé Cook-Braxton

In this episode of the Global Flag Football League Podcast, we sit down with Dr. Leneé Cook-Braxton, the first-ever Chief Wellness Officer of the GFFL. Leneé’s journey is nothing short of inspiring—from making history as the youngest captain of the inaugural Carolina Panthers cheerleading squad to becoming a leader in sports performance, exercise science, and holistic wellness.

We dive into her early passion for movement, her transition from professional cheerleading to a career focused on athlete well-being, and what it truly means to optimize both mental and physical performance in competitive sports. She shares how she’s shaping the GFFL’s comprehensive wellness program, bringing her expertise in sport psychology, exercise physiology, and mind-body medicine to elevate the game of flag football.

Leneé also offers valuable insights for athletes, coaches, and anyone looking to perform at their highest level—both on and off the field. If you're passionate about the future of flag football and the role wellness plays in athletic success, this is an episode you don’t want to miss!

How to follow Dr. Leneé Cook-Braxton

https://www.linkedin.com/in/leneecookbraxton/

https://www.holisticperformancecenter.com/

lenee@gffl.pro

lenee@holisticperformancecenter.com

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

[3:48] Leneé reflects on her early years and shares what first drew her to cheerleading and dance.

[11:19] Reflecting on making history as the youngest captain of the inaugural Carolina Panthers cheerleading squad and the impact of that experience.

[12:38] The journey from professional cheerleading and dance to a career in exercise science, sport psychology, and wellness, and the inspiration behind the transition.

[19:38] The opportunity to join the GFFL, the significance of being the first Chief Wellness Officer, and the responsibilities the role entails.

[24:15] The impact of flag football’s inclusion in the upcoming Olympics and how it shapes the future and growth of the GFFL.

[29:51] Expert advice for athletes of all ages and coaches on optimizing both mental and physical performance for peak success.

[30:54] Lenee shares where listeners can follow her journey and learn more about her work with the Global Flag Football League.

Episode 2: Building the Global Flag Football League with Founder Jay Lawrence

In this exciting second episode of the Global Flag Football League Podcast, we sit down with Jay Lawrence, the visionary founder and Chairman of the Board for the GFFL. Jay shares his incredible journey of resilience and perseverance, including the challenges he faced following a life-altering car accident just days before his 21st birthday.

From founding the Florida Stingrays to now leading the GFFL, Jay takes us through his deep passion for football and the community work that has driven him for over two decades. He discusses the rapid growth of flag football and why now is the perfect time to establish a global league that will shape the future of the sport.

We also dive into the details of the upcoming GFFL Flag Tournament in Las Vegas this August, along with Jay’s long-term vision for the league and how he’s working to expand it internationally. Whether you're a player, coach, or fan, find out how you can get involved and be part of the movement.

Tune in for a conversation packed with inspiration, growth, and the future of global sports!

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

[1:17] Jay Lawrence, Founder of the GFFL

[5:03] Jay shares how his journey of resilience and perseverance was shaped by his accident, detailing the inspiration that drove him to push forward

[11:06] Discussing a deep passion for football, reflecting on the journey from founding the Florida Stingrays to leading the Global Flag Football League and what continues to fuel that dedication to the sport.

[18:45] The rapid global growth of flag football and why now is the perfect time to launch a global league.

[20:08] Details about the upcoming GFFL Flag Tournament in August, set to take place in Las Vegas, including what participants can expect from the event.

[24:28] Jay’s long-term vision for the Global Flag Football League and where it is expected to be in the next 5 to 10 years.

[26:33] Efforts currently underway to expand the Global Flag Football League to more countries and grow its international presence.

[29:44] How to get involved with the GFFL and be part of the growing movement.