Episode 6: Willie Smith
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ABOUT THE EPISODE
Former running back turned financial advisor, Willie Smith, tells his story of when football dreams were shattered by injury at age seventeen. Willie and Sarah talk about misplaced identity and how to hold plans with an open hand. Willie also opens up about his experience as a black man in America, especially in the wake of events precipitated by the George Floyd murder. Willie generously shares his own stories and insights and offers thoughtful reflections on how America can continue to move forward toward racial equality.
Willie Smith is a financial advisor at Thrivent Financial. He graduated from North Side High School in Fort Wayne, IN. He also has an bachelor's degree from Purdue University (West Lafayette, IN) as well as a Master's Degree from Indiana State University. He is currently living out his mission to help individuals and families gain financial success through customized, holistic, financial planning. He has a long-term goal of making a kingdom impact on professional athletes while serving as their financial advisor. In his free time, Willie enjoys working out, live sporting events, and traveling.
EPISODE NOTES
City Church in Fort Wayne, IN
Proverbs 16:9 (NIV) - “In their hearts humans plan their course, but the Lord establishes their steps.”
Corey Jones shooting in Florida
13TH — a documentary about race, justice, and incarceration by Ava DuVernay
When They See Us — a documentary about the young men dubbed the “Central Park 5” by Ava DuVernay
The Hate You Give — a 2018 film about a young woman caught in between her black community and her predominately white prep school worlds
U.S. Census Bureau statistics on race and ethnicity (as of July 2019)
