Life’s crossroads, lessons learned and shared wisdom

Before this ear-shattering voice wrecked fantasy rosters or sapped betting bankrolls, ruining impressionable young minds was the daily calling. Believe it or not, my first gig out of college was imparting “wisdom” on the youth of America as a high school history teacher in my hometown of Champaign, Ill.

It wasn’t a conventional student body. Carrying out duties at an alternative school — an institution attended by kids who don’t fit in or were kicked out of traditional settings — had its fair share of challenges. As with any job, it was a roller coaster of ups and downs, but the rewards were unmatched.

Most importantly, the lessons learned and relationships built propelled me for a then-unknown career shift. You could say this educator was educated. Unbeknownst to them, my diverse group of students — many of whom only needed a second chance to thrive — taught me.

Whenever a fork in the road has occurred in my career — I’ve been laid off multiple times — reflecting on my humble beginnings provided direction, brought proper humility and injected patience. I’m at an intersection again. My sports betting TV show, “Live on the Line,” has reached its unfortunate end.

Here’s the announcement I posted on social media on Monday.

The show’s cancellation is terribly disappointing, but it’s hardly a last act. Really, it’s an opportunity for a career reconfiguration.

It’s in these instances in which this 20-year industry veteran leans on four key areas to figure out what’s next. For those cutting their teeth in the biz or figuring out life in general, I hope my experiences can assist when times get tough.

Always hustle. Make a call. Shoot over an email. Fire off a text. In order to make it in the sports media business, you, as RuPaul would encourage, gotta work. Decision makers invest in those who show commitment. This line of work requires a season-long grind. Relish it whether in content creation, networking, behind-the-scenes operations, guest appearances — whatever.
Be versatile. In this digital-driven age, being a jack of all trades is imperative. Hone your skills on camera, behind the mic or with the written word. Strive to play a super-utility role instead of being a one-trick, swing-from-the-heels DH. And be productive in more than just one sport. Your attractiveness to audiences and employers as a multidimensional content producer will greatly raise your profile.
Operate in fairness and honesty. Ruling over your self-involved world with an iron fist will turn off many. Be transparent. Be open. Be respectful. People may remember the jerks, but it’s for all the wrong reasons. Kindness and acceptance can take you far.
Be YOU. Don’t be a wannabe or a copycat. Consumers, colleagues and bigwigs possess accurate B.S. meters. Uniqueness, however, can elevate personalities quickly. Be comfortable with who you are. Stand up and stand out. If you’re real, you’re often wanted.

What's next for me? Building a College Football '25 dynasty with Illinois, then some random West Coast representative (San Jose State?). When not smashing the Kennesaw States of the world 106-6, I'll be searching high and low for new opportunities. My goal is to create the gold standard of hybrid fantasy/betting content for NFL that’s light, loose and informative.

Of course, all of my written content will live here on The Gaming Juice. We have many exciting designs for our members coming down the chute. So, more to come. Until then, I need to make Luke Altmyer a Heisman Trophy winner.

WagerWire's Favorite Things from this Creator:

More of Brad's Free Picks and Strategies

Pods: The Fade 5 Podcast