The Grind
August 7, 2014
Hosted by Nick Ferguson
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Guest Information
Episode Description
Just six weeks remaining before Major League Baseball starts gearing up for what will to be another sensational playoff season. The highly anticipated NFL Preseason kicked off last week with the Hall of Fame game in Canton,Ohio. Every year means new faces and high aspirations, hopes that this will finally be the year that the franchise's fortune changes. Optimism in the preseason is often accompanied by coach's anxiety and front office staff evaluating every play with expert precision. During practice many hold their breath each time there's a pile from players ferociously converging for a tackle. These nervous moments only increase as the preseason reaches its climactic conclusion and players are fighting to make the opening day roster. On today's show we will breakdown the goals every NFL player is hoping to achieve during the preseason period, the work needed to fine tune both their body and minds in preparation for the long treacherous journey known as the NFL Grind. Long time NFL veteran Julian Peterson (Seahawks, Lions, Niners) stops by to discuss what his goals and fears were from year one to year eleven and what his personal keys to longevity are. From the NFL to the NBA we will discuss the ever changing landscape of the business side of professional sports and it's hiring practices of female employees in positions of power. Rounding out our show a preseason breakdown of the early rematch between the Broncos and defending Super Bowl champs Seattle Seahawks. Although the faces have changed, the goal remains the same, no one remembers who came in second.
Nick Ferguson’s Secondary Perspective
Archives Available on VoiceAmerica Sports Channel
Our show will cater to both avid fans and newbies by providing insightful storytelling based on personal experiences, game break downs and what really happens when the bright lights and crowds are all gone. Today’s fans are searching for expert commentary that’s objective, entertaining, witty, truthful and real. In today’s world, you won’t be able to please everyone, but honesty continues to be an undeniable attribute we can all agree upon. The ability to drive water cooler debates, leave audiences hanging on your every word and using insight to generate outside conversations, is what I plan to accomplish. The show will have guests from all walks of life giving their opinions and expertise on breaking news and top headlines. This is sure to be a show that you will want to tune in to see what happens next.
Nick Ferguson
Growing up in the inner city of Miami has presented me with many obstacles to overcome. No matter how bleak things might have looked or what odds might have been stacked against me, I never stop fighting for what I want. I went from a college walk-on at Morris Brown College to a scholarship student-athlete at Georgia Tech. It was imperative for me to display my athletic abilities on a larger platform. This mindset has pushed me to chase my dream over 3 continents by way of the CFL, NFL Europe and finally the NFL. I took that same approach to my education when I gave up a $50,000 work-out bonus to return to Georgia Tech and earn my undergraduate degree in Business. I was presented with an award from the NFL because of my scholastic achievements. As an undrafted player in the NFL I’ve seen my fair share of highs and lows in my 10 year career. The knowledge gained on and off the field has led to my continued work as a Sports Analyst. I can recreate the passion I had on the field as an analyst to help undrafted players find success in the NFL. Maintaining the proper attitude with perseverance has allowed me to continue my pursuit for perfection as I embark on what is sure to be a great 2nd career.
I continue to use my celebrity to bring awareness to outside causes and community organizations. This allows me to mentor future leaders of tomorrow, aspiring athletes and help troubled youth. Nothing is better than knowing that you’ve had a major impact on someone else’s life.