EP 207 Beyond the Court: Coach Ty Hodges Journey of Mentorship and Growth.

In the latest episode of the "Stuck In My Mind Podcast," host Wize El Jefe sits down with special guest Ty Hodges, a renowned basketball coach, to delve into his fascinating journey of mentorship and growth both on and off the court. With a focus on the power of positive role models and the impact of social media, this episode offers valuable insights and thought-provoking discussions. The episode kicks off with an intriguing revelation about college coaches using social media to assess the character of potential recruits. Wize and Ty discuss the significance of online presence and emphasize that what one posts on social media can have long-term consequences. In fact, Ty aptly describes social media as a "walking interview," highlighting that one's digital footprint serves as an ongoing representation of their values and professional potential. Wize and Ty also explore how social media has become an invaluable tool for law enforcement agencies. They shed light on how police departments rely on social media platforms to gather information and evidence, underlining the profound impact these platforms have on our lives and society.As the conversation progresses, Ty reveals that he prioritizes his podcast work over watching TV regularly. He explains that he dedicates specific days to recording and creating content for his own shows, as well as separate days for being a guest on other podcasts. Ty emphasizes the importance of being a guest as a podcaster, as it exposes one to new audiences and expands their network. Reflecting on his upbringing during the crack era, Ty shares poignant stories about how families were affected by the pervasive drug epidemic. Despite witnessing the struggles around him, Ty credits his good values and upbringing for steering him away from a destructive path. He acknowledges the presence of street influences in his life but firmly states his desire to choose a different, more positive trajectory. The conversation turns to Ty's goal of harnessing the nostalgia of Brooklyn and other boroughs, including the Bronx, through his podcast. He emphasizes that his platform is open to anyone from any part of the world to come and share their stories, to have fun, and to relive unforgettable memories. Ty's passion for preserving these stories for future generations is palpable. He believes that by sharing these narratives, both his own great-grandkids and others can gain a deeper appreciation for the rich heritage and cultural legacies of different communities. Expanding on the theme of nostalgia, Ty delves into the stories of three elementary schools that feed into one middle/junior high school. He highlights how growing up in different parts of the area provided unique experiences, yet everyone identified with being from East New York, regardless of their specific neighborhood. Ty expresses his love for the area and his desire to forge connections with younger kids and families there, wishing to give back to the community that molded him. Moving forward, Ty dispenses valuable advice about maintaining a positive online presence. He stresses that actions on social media can reflect back on the basketball program he is part of, impacting future opportunities for himself and his players. With college recruiting in mind, Ty warns of the importance of character and highlights how coaches often consider social media followers as a measure of potential recruits' popularity. Throughout the episode, Wize and Ty engage in heartfelt conversations about their shared experiences growing up in Brooklyn. From the joy of smelling their grandmother's cooking to reminiscing about friendships formed during their time at Brooklyn Tech, they exude a genuine passion for preserving and sharing these stories. The speakers' dedication to their podcast is evident as they mention lined-up guests for future episodes, exciting plans to film locations from their childhood, and their podcast's imminent launch on Labor Day weekend. In true storytelling fashion, Wize and Ty touch upon encounters with a notorious group called "Bama" from Sheffield, highlighting how their presence influenced perceptions of neighboring areas like East New York and Brownsville. Ty shares anecdotes about individuals who pushed him to work harder, shaping his growth both on and off the court. As a coach, Ty's passion for teaching and mentoring shines through, as he treats his players as his own kids and emphasizes the importance of positive influences in one's life. Drawing from their shared experiences and personal histories, Wize El Jefe and Ty Hodges create a captivating podcast episode that intertwines nostalgia, mentorship, and personal growth. Through engaging conversations, listeners gain valuable insights into the power of positive role models, the impact of social media, and the enduring value of preserving and sharing stories for future generations. Tune in to the "Stuck In My Mind Podcast: Beyond the Court: Coach Ty Hodges' Journey of Mentorship and Growth" to embark on a memorable journey through Brooklyn and the power of personal transformation.