If you’re like me, you don’t fully understand the ins and outs of Name, Image and Likeness in college and high school sports. That’s why I’m excited to talk to my guest this week. You see, my guest is redefining the NIL landscape by focusing on what most people overlook: education, empowerment, and long-term personal branding. Stephanie Grady — founder of The Influential Athlete and The NIL School — is equipping athletes, especially young women, with the knowledge and confidence to understand their value, share their story, and build influence with integrity.
A former competitive figure skater whose career ended abruptly due to injury, Stephanie understands firsthand the pressure, identity challenges, and ambition that come with being an athlete. She went on to become an Emmy-winning journalist, and with her husband — a longtime Athletic Director — she brings a rare 360° perspective to the evolving NIL world.
Together, their company partners directly with high schools, state athletic associations, and elite development programs to help entire communities navigate NIL responsibly. With her unique blend of athletic discipline, newsroom polish, and CEO-level strategy, Stephanie Grady isn’t just joining the NIL conversation — she’s transforming it and reshaping athlete development for the next decade.
Thank you for tuning in to this episode of Game Changers. We hope you found inspiration and motivation in the stories of resilience and adversity shared by our incredible guests. Remember, no matter what challenges you face, your ability to overcome them lies within. Stay resilient and keep pushing forward towards your goals. If you enjoyed this episode, please consider subscribing, leaving a review, and sharing it with others who may benefit from these powerful stories.
