Welcome back to the RU Strong Podcast, where we go beyond the scoreboard to uncover the real stories of athletes who lead with faith, grit, and purpose.
I’m your host, Jeff Durr.
Today’s guest is Quintus McDonald, a powerhouseon the field at Penn State, and a former NFL linebacker with the Indianapolis Colts. But his story didn’t end with football, in many ways, that’s where it truly began. Quintus opens up about the intense pressure that comes with beinga high-profile athlete and how, despite all the accolades, he often felt like he had to carry the weight of the world on his shoulders. After football, he faced the hard truth that many athletes struggle with when the game ends, but lifekeeps going and without that identity, who are you?
What pulled Quintus through was his unwaveringfaith. He reminds us that “God is always up to something,” and it was that belief that guided him as he rebuilt his purpose far from the bright lights of the stadium. Today, he’s a passionate mentor and servant-leader, dedicating hislife to helping young people, especially young men, believe they’re enough, and teaching them to make strong, values-based decisions. As a father, he sees his greatest legacy not in what he accomplished on the field, but in how he nowlives, with humility, intention, and love.
This episode is a powerful reminder thatstrength isn’t about how hard you hit; it’s about how deeply you live. Join me as we dive into the real journey of Quintus McDonald.