Move Forward by Giving Back. Episode 86 with The Real Brad Lea (TRBL). Guest: Shawn Porter & Nick Llewellyn.

IBF welterweight titleholder from 2013 to 2014, Shawn Porter has spent his life training for “what if” moments. “What if I get hit? What if I forget to breathe? What if I get knocked down?” The mindset of being prepared for anything shaped Shawn’s daily training for over two decades. Now that those efforts have paid off, he’s looking to give back outside the ring.

Enter Shawn’s friend Nick Llewellyn. A US Marine and father, the frequency of school shootings left Nick feeling powerless to protect his daughter. Not one to sit around, Nick designed the BOLO Bag-- “BOLO” is shorthand for “be on the lookout.” And, BOLO’s backpacks help kids to just that.

A versatile, lightweight design, BOLO Bags are also bulletproof. That bulletproof backpacks are can withstand bullets up to a 7.62 mm. (The round used in AK-47s and equivalent rifles.)

“Is it ideal to think that we live in a world where we as parents have to prepare our children for an active shooter situation the same as a fire drill? No,” explain Shawn and Nick.

However, school shootings have become an unfortunate reality we face and need to prepare for. While this bag is hopefully never put to use, it’s better to be prepared and not need; than need and not be prepared.

For Nick and Shawn, the plan doesn’t stop at just selling BOLO Bags. They also hope to raise awareness by speaking at schools across the country about bullying, mental health awareness, and the power of kindness.

“Success is about giving back,” says Shawn. So, how will you be successful today?