This season of The Tessa Tubbs Podcast marks a shift. We’re moving beyond tactics and titles and into Self-Leadership: how we come to know ourselves accurately, take ownership of our choices, and live in alignment with what we know to be true.
In this episode, Tessa sits down with Dr. Kevin Dyson, former NFL wide receiver turned educator, leader, and founder. While Kevin is widely known for unforgettable moments on the field, this conversation focuses on what he’s built beyond the spotlight: a life shaped by growth, humility, reinvention, and service.
Together, they explore:
- How early lessons from Kevin’s mother shaped his work ethic and values (and why “you can’t skip steps” still matters)
- What happens when you achieve the dream early, and then have to start over at 30
- The identity shift from public success to purpose, impact, and legacy in education
- How adversity and career-ending injuries created perspective and reinvention
- Why “letting go” of past hurts, guilt, resentment, and self-punishment is often the doorway to growth
Kevin also shares the “full circle” moment of keeping a promise he made at 12 years old: using his success to create stability and freedom for his mom.
This is a powerful conversation about choice, identity, legacy, and becoming—and an invitation to take one honest step toward alignment.
Learn more about Kevin’s work:
- Kevin Dyson: https://kevindyson.com
- Music City Academy: https://musiccityacademy.org (donate + learn more)
- Social media: @ktdyson87
