In this episode of 'Confident Calm Clutch Car Ride Conversations,' host Valerie Alston delves into Shedeur Sanders' surprising slide to the fifth round of the 2025 NFL draft, offering lessons for young athletes and their parents. Despite being a once-projected top 10 pick, Sanders was selected by the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round, sparking discussions on humility, resilience, and character. The episode highlights the importance of preparation, managing public perception, maintaining composure, and having a robust support system. Alston provides actionable insights and conversation prompts aimed at improving mental toughness, confidence, and personal growth for aspiring athletes.

00:00 Introduction to Shedeur Sanders' NFL Draft Journey

01:30 Lessons in Humility and Preparation

05:15 The Importance of Resilience

06:40 Character and Teamwork Beyond Performance

08:04 Managing Public Perception

09:47 The Value of Support Systems

13:00 Conversation Prompts and Closing Remarks

Discussion questions:

1. Shedeur Sanders was projected as a top pick but fell to the fifth round. How do you think he felt during that experience, and how might you handle unexpected setbacks in your own life?

2. How can you differentiate between being confident and being humble, and why is that distinction important?

3. After being drafted, Sanders expressed gratitude and a desire to prove himself. How can adopting a mindset of gratitude and determination help you grow, even when things don't go as planned?

4. What steps can you take to ensure you're not only skilled but also prepared and respectful in your endeavors?"

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Questions? Comments? Ideas? Email me: valerie.alston@valstoncoaching.com

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