Thomas Jones from NFL Running Back to Hollywood Star: Finding Life After Football | Pivot Podcast

GET MERCH HERE: www.pivotpodcast.com
FOLLOW HAPPY DAD: / happydad
FIND HAPPY DAD: www.happydad.com/find
FOLLOW THE PIVOT PODCAST:
INSTAGRAM | / thepivot
TWITTER | / thepivot
TIKTOK | / thepivot
FACEBOOK | / thepivotpodcast
SPOTIFY | open.spotify.com/show/5KtXTWi..
APPLE PODCASTS | podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast...
#ThePivot
#Podcast
#ChanningCrowder
#FredTaylor
#RyanClark
#HappyDad
Don’t miss out on all the NFL and NBA action this week at DraftKings! Download the DraftKings Sportsbook app today! Sign-up using Dkng.co/pivot or USE Promo Code: PIVOT.
Kicking off Football Friday, We sit down with one of the best NFL running backs to ever play, Thomas Jones who found new success in life after football.
It is not an unfamiliar story that athletes struggle to transition in their post careers or to find something as fulfilling as the sport they dedicated their life to but developing a new identity gave new purpose to the former running back. Jones, a member of the 10,000 rushing yards club and a recent Pro Football Hall of Fame Nominee, opens up to Ryan, Fred and Channing about his journey to become who he is today, from a small town and strict family upbringing to playing on the big stage of the NFL and now a Hollywood star.
After a very successful on field career and one of the best at the position to play the game, Jones found himself lost after stepping away from the NFL losing that the locker room camaraderie and everyday focus was difficult. Going from waking up early in the morning to being at a NFL facility, Jones found himself on the verge of becoming an alcoholic drinking every morning headed down a dark path until he was introduced to acting which he says, saved his life. Determined to take on a new identity, Ryan points out that when you Google this former star-studded athlete, he’s known for being an “American Actor” rather than an “Ex-NFL Player.” Jones shares with the guys that this distinction was intentional as he has now carved a niche for himself in Hollywood with break out roles in the film industry including, Straight Out Of Compton, Being Mary Jane, P-Valley and now as a Show Runner and Producer in the unscripted world, documenting the lives of other former NFL players adjusting to life after football.
Of Course the banter with Channing continues as he starts asking the Channing type questions including what the sex scenes are like and intimate moments on screen with famed actresses such as Gabrielle Union as well as diving into some of his former high profile relationships, specifically his history with actress Meagan Good. Tap in every Tuesday at Noon eastern and on Fridays at 3:30pm est to catch some of the best conversations around sports and culture with life lessons.
Our partnership with DraftKings continues and special offers to check out for this wknd's football games. If you or someone you know has a gambling problem, crisis counseling and referral services can be accessed by calling 877-8-HOPENY/text HOPENY (467369) (NY)1-800-GAMBLER (1-800-426-2537) (IL/IN/LA/MI/NJ/PA/TN/WV/WY), 1-800-NEXT STEP (AZ), 1-800-522-4700 (CO/KS/NH), 888-789-7777/visit ccpg.org (CT), 1-800-BETS OFF (IA), visit OPGR.org (OR), or 1-888-532-3500 (VA).21+ (18+ NH/WY). Physically present in AZ/CO/CT/IL/IN/IA/KS/LA(select parishes)/MI/NJ/NY/PA/TN/VA/WV/WY only. Void in ONT. Valid 1 per new customer. Min. $5 deposit. Min $5 pregame moneyline bet. Bet must win. $200 issued as eight (8) $25 free bets. Sponsored by DK. Ends 11/20/2022 11:59 PM ET. Eligibility restrictions apply. See terms at sportsbook.draftkings.com/footballterms.#1 Rated Sportsbook App based on Eilers&Krejcik (2Q22). Product Analysis: Testing, Scoring, and Ranking U.S. Sports Betting Apps

[@lyfeofaj1565]

"Money doesn't solve every problem. The money we're making is the money we're earning. They're paying us millions of dollars but we're earning millions of dollars, but that's in your account, that's not in you! It's different! Money in your account is in your account, What's in you, is in you!!!" ~Thomas Jones~ This quote was a whole meal!! Powerful!!!!!

[@BlessedBeyondAShadowOfDoubt]

Man that's deep when u really unpack what he was saying..

[@DJ_Phil85]

yea that quote stood out to me too

[@WoodburyDaPrince]

So true. That’s the reading and psychology perspective that comes from studying. 👏🏾

[@morrishawkins9659]

Right…it only intensify the person u already r

[@lgsg2825]

Deep shit. As a man, athlete, father, etc. Money situations can mentally make or break the best of em

[@mitchellbrock3463]

This was clearly a much needed therapy session for TJ. Shout out to the crew for just letting him talk. Excellent episode

[@davvionthompson7655]

They are great at letting the guest talk! I think that’s why it’s so good they are legit there to listen! It’s therapy for the guest! Every guest gets extremely comfortable!!!

[@christiancinelli4235]

One thousand percent. Big shout out

[@InspectorButters4]

@@davvionthompson7655 these 3 fellas are like therapy for the guest and for the listeners!!! Freddy T gives us some SOLID advice to live by at least once every 1-2 episodes. Imo The Pivot is totally unique and the best podcast out period right now, sports related or otherwise

[@davvionthompson7655]

@@InspectorButters4 I say the same exact thing! They make their guest so comfortable no matter their race, gender, or profession! And every episode is worthwhile.

[@InspectorButters4]

@@davvionthompson7655 I love how they discuss any topic, sometimes hotly lol, but they listen, they dont really argue, and they never put anyone down for having different views. This podcast is a positive environment all the time and thats a super rare quality nowadays! Plus I like how they interview the person and not the athlete

[@JBthe3rd]

Ryan Clark and the Pivot deserves an Emmy or something! 🔥

[@Skinny_Pimp]

JUST The Pivot no stars more like Voltron.

[@jamesthomes303]

Black 🖤 power

[@alexplum8736]

@@Skinny_Pimp I begged the differ Channing my favorite I don't think I would tune in every time if Channing wasn't on the show but to your point neither one is the greatest of the other cause they balance each other out and compliment each others strengths to the show

[@badass9643]

The pivot cast as a whole not Ryan Clark AND the pivot.

[@JBthe3rd]

@@badass9643 you are right! I stand corrected! 🙏🏽❤️ the whole production!

[@lyfeofaj1565]

Bro, the way he talks and hand movements, I see why him and Fred are close friends. So much wisdom!!

[@katrinabush2074]

I just live seeing our black men being open and honest and showing LOVE and Respect to each other.

[@anthonyk.mootry4482]

I grew up a Chicago Bears fan. To this day I own 2 NFL jerseys. One is Walter Payton and the other is Thomas Q Jones. Much respect, sir. 💪🏾

[@3nathan]

He was a stud there

[@ShellC81]

Man alive, I had a crush on this man in high school and he is still as smart and fine as my teenage heart knew him to be.

[@AnthonySGoolsby]

I worked a scene with Thomas Q. on Johnson and we had an in depth talk about his personal life. He’s 💯, down to earth, and just good human being. Glad to have met his acquaintance.

[@melindaostergren8115]

Of all the excellent guests you’ve had from the beginning of the Pivot adventure this gentleman is the best in my view. He’s a walking, talking “life after” study in deep thinking, self awareness, almost brutal self-assessment. He’s so insightful, balanced, clear eyed, introspective…He’s another person I didn’t know anything about but I always watch every episode because I know the guest will be well worth listening to. Thank you.

[@ericwilliams1046]

Well said

[@szn1580]

He was really good in Luke Cage. Dude really worked on his craft

[@kendrezflournoy2429]

Johnson is a great tv show about black men being shown in an positive, non-stereotypical way. Also, Shout out for RC, Fred, Chan for showing us black men for having a healthy conversation.

[@PhillyJawn69]

He’s emerged as a really good actor. Keep doing your thing Thomas!!!

[@sharesecombs3931]

Yes!! Now if we can just see more of him and less of " The Rock"😊

[@PhillyJawn69]

@@sharesecombs3931 The Rock is a pretty good actor in my opinion.

[@sharesecombs3931]

@@PhillyJawn69 Yes he is, I just think others could also fit in his roles sometimes

[@erika8899]

Please help them get 1 million followers by their ONE year anniversary or sooner. Love this Podcast and never miss an episode.

[@laurenp6818]

Fr they get more views than subscribers. Should have been at a Million by now.

[@SP-oh6je]

They will get there. 👍🏾

[@g-low5023]

I think if they continue to diversify their guest they will hit that number. Should already be at 1mill but its coming.

[@margiedaugherty9251]

Thomas hasn't forgotten where he came from and I admire that about him I'm also from Big Stone Gap/Appalachia VA he's still the same down to earth person I known since High School

[@BlackManTravels]

This is an awesome podcast episode. Proud Thomas Jones progression after the NFL

[@chelisajeffries3572]

Y'all boys need to get Percy Harvin on the show.

[@kiingdariuss5994]

Trent Richardson too. I want to hear his side of what really happened to him

[@b.o.1951]

Definitely need to see Percy on The Pivot. That’s an excellent suggestion. That dude was a video game on the field

[@xavierwilson4830]

Favorite player.

[@medavi081]

Now that would be cool! What a great suggestion.

[@Levelstothis23]

I remember meeting Thomas Jones in a hotel downtown. The bears had just won THE NFC championship game and was headed to the superbowl. Thomas on on the elevator and when I acknowledged who he was he exited the elevator to greet me and a couple of my friends who didn’t watch football. Very humble guy.

[@jasonmcghee6800]

That line about the curse of being ambitious!! 🔥🔥

[@Ezekiel144k]

I remember meeting Thomas Jones when I used to intern for fubu(in nyc). He was playing for the bucs at the time, and I was in college; we spoke on football, nutrition and working out for a good minute. A cool brotha

[@DAsteelyE]

Thomas Jones #20 of DA BEARS, my favorite Bears running back I grew up watching every season on Sunday and was the first player I ever shed a tear for leaving our team, love ya Mr Jones us 🐻 fans will get you in the hall🙏🐻⬇️

[@remyv7338]

Real shit

[@gametimeclutch294]

As a HUGE jets fan, I am truly happy to see how much Thomas Jones has invested in himself off the field after retirement. A great player and an even better person. I hope he makes the Hall of Fame one day.

[@whynotyou783]

RC. You could have started your question with. “Tell us how it was growing up?” Lol 5 mins just to say that

[@wolfganglisborg3970]

Definition of "pivot" this is definitely one of to interviews. Hearing the character growth in Thomas is so powerful. The fact that man's had to learn to take himself out of his jacket for work. Instead of going to his family with all of that right after a game. That's real self reflection.

[@kynix3532]

Love how TJ has reinvented himself in the acting industry and you can tell that he definely misses the lockerroom talk with the NFL fellas! Great episode once again! Salute

[@AtlLateNight]

Yeah, this was great!

[@deplorusbrownjr.8387]

He has the smell of wisdom on him.. I clicked on hoping to hear some highlight stories to make me laugh.. Instead I got insight, wisdom, and knowledge... Thank you all.

[@wlgriffi]

His eyes smile.

[@premierperformancework8185]

This is an out standing episode where a former high-level NFL athlete who provides a in-depth look at the day-to-day psychological approach. Phenomenal content guys!

[@zkash0824]

One of the most underrated runningbacks in the game. He's an underrated actor too. Great guest!!!

[@jbf1102]

This was a great episode! The psychological aspect that we had to endure to play football was crazy and Thomas Jones broke it down perfectly for the people who never played.

[@royalrelle1484]

Devin Hester, Thomas Jones & that Bear Defense almost won a Super Bowl, if it wasn’t for the COLTS

[@OutWestIllinois]

Born, and raised in Chicago, plz don't remind me. Especially when Hester ran it back on the 1st kickoff. I just knew we was going to win 😢😭

[@dawncallaway2769]

I Love The Pivot, I am an avid sports fan. I listened to it all the time. I learn something new about the show. Thank you, Channing, Ryan and Freddie and the other guy can’t remember his name. Love you all.❤🏈🙏🏾 Dawn Callaway

[@allconditions2259]

Great episode. One of the most underrated rb’s of his era, always consistent.

[@sandraammons3116]

I love the Johnson show! Didn't know he is the producer of the show that's why I love The Pivot because I learn something all the time. Love these guys!

[@jeffone2nv]

I like how he explained that he had to decompress before seeing his family after a game. It’s true football is a game, but you have to play it violently. If not you can get hurt, you try lesson the blow you receive by giving a blow. Real talk loved his interview.

[@iamthejpshow]

Great episode guys. So proud of Thomas Jones the football player and actor. Also I want to add that RC does a great job narrating the show.

[@warrennolbert3915]

And once again THE PIVOT WITH ANOTHER ONE!!!!!!!!! I love this episode. Fellas keep up the good work. Y'all are so blessed and inspiring.

[@davvionthompson7655]

Always was a fan of Thomas Jones and wondered how his big quiet self got into acting!!! Dude was a monster on the field! And a really good actor!!!!

[@rollinjeudy7878]

The Best Podcast, this platform is what we as people really need. Keep up it up. SHOUT OUT TO CC RC FT AND TJ ( congratulations on all your accomplishments). Thanks to the ENTIRE PIVOT PODCAST CREW.

[@mrfixit7047]

Ryan's first question was 1 minute and 9 seconds long.

[@SchoolboiiiT]

I always enjoy the transparency that the guys bring out of their guest

[@roddollaz]

I was always a fan of Thomas Jones growing up 💯💪🏿 much respect ✊🏿

[@schiquitabutts6484]

Thomas great interview and thanks for being open and transparent. You have so much wisdom and knowledge. Wishing you much success and continue blessing.

[@lazye785]

This show has been what we needed for years 💯

[@saritamoorebansa4485]

I’m crushing…. I remember him from P-Valley show. Lord, bless his mom and dad…❤❤❤😂😂😂

[@heathershack8537]

Bravo to Thomas Jones for speaking out! His story is truly inspiring. This was an awesome segment! Thank you for his feature!

[@NurseViv]

Continue to raise the bar fellas..This episode with Thomas Jones was 🔥🔥🔥 I appreciated his honesty and candor!! Great episode!! 👍🏽👍🏽👍🏽

[@brandonbrandonsss]

LIKE FREAKY FRED SAY “ANYBODY CAN PODCAST BUT NOT EVERYONE CAN PIVOT “

[@vetbeard3099]

Thomas is a good dude. use to run into him at uva in front of little John's subs and the whitespot and he would always speak and dap people up.

[@mingywantwingy1379]

He was a stud as a Jet and I enjoyed His time with my Chiefs. Always seemed like a class act, and He still does.

[@nqobilemalaza9838]

This episode was a lesson in the depths that you can go when you stop doing something you love and are really good at - whether it is taken from you or you let it go... Making the decision to pivot and move to a new phase is very rarely a smooth transition. Thank you, gentlemen. We were blessed again.

[@frederickmalone8021]

Thomas Jones has transition well, really proud of him. Keep up the good work and continue to grind.

[@Imonie_Sincere]

You guys have an amazing platform and these shows always impact my life positively. Much love, respect and appreciation for all u brothers ✊🏿💪🏿💯🔥

[@OGBOBBYBURTON]

Need to get Anthony "spice"Adams on one these. Shit would be legendary

[@kwamesarfo-mensah5785]

Yoooo, I was thinking the same thing! Spice definitely has to be on there.

[@erikhopkins9488]

negative! it would be comic relief with him and channing! 😄😄😄😄😄

[@leonbryant5474]

That show would shut the internet down...

[@Bklynmason72]

This podcast continues to be more and more impressive episode after episode. It is such a safe space for each guest. Blessings to the Pivot!

[@Rodnyet]

Another good interview fellas. Props to Thomas Jones and his doc-series Life After is a very good series. Folks don't realize how difficult it can be for these athletes to transition back to a regular life after playing sports their entire lives.

[@JWandoe]

Great point! It’s wild because most never really had a regular life. Not as adults at least!

[@sharesecombs3931]

Just transitions in life period!!🙏💕

[@ariesgirl.]

Great episode with so many gems. I love how TJ was open and honest about the ups/downs in his life as it will also help so many others that struggle. I don't know his life as a football player but he is an amazing actor and I enjoy seeing movies he's in. The Pivot is such a supportive and safe space for folks. Ryan is an interviewer architect with the way he set up questions and never compromise someone's dignity. Fred and Channing are amazing within their positions as well. My fav podcast!

[@mzchocolatedrop405]

Another great great show!! Had to watch it twice. The Pivot is 🔥

[@Bdk2036]

One of the funniest parts about this show is Channing not being able to dress

[@richlf5518]

Loved Thomas Jones when he played for my bears definitely in my top 5 bears running backs of all time

[@beautifulba_kmay5369]

This was good! The message of learning how to transition and when to “turn it off”, is pivotal. I am in a transition with my career, and learning how to turn it off is hard. Knowing that career is not who I am is hard. Learning to see people as people is hard. Knowing what to do next is harder💯😂 BTW, help Channing see everyone doesn’t think like him lol! He is ONE of a kind😂

[@greasyspoon3689]

Man yall helping people with jobs too, God is Smiling for what you 3 represent, man I love this podcast... 👏 👏 👏

[@laurenp6818]

This episode right hére? WIW Dude was talking from his heart. I now believe most NFL players really go through a serious challenge when transitioning leaving the NFL and no longer playing. It's not all glitz and glamour.

[@SuaveGuy23]

His face when chan asked about the lotion 😂😂😂

[@daynaleboeuf4888]

Just when you think the episodes can't get any better, you have on TQJ. This is one of the best episodes!

[@billthebutcher2]

"You ever see a crackhead that swole?" "Crack don't do that to you" hahah RC and Channing are killing me

[@moultryhoward]

These guys bring it every week. Definitely didn't know the background of Thomas Jones. It was amazing. There's no way that this show is not nominated for something.... let's get these fellows up to a million views.

[@erikachristian4955]

I love this podcast! Y’all are so transparent and honestly this not only helps athletes but people who aren’t athletes. Can we get a show with all the wives? To discuss their roles in the NFL as well?

[@midwestdolo818]

"I'd love to play a crackhead?" Naw dog you tripping 😂😂😂😂

[@MsFitKitty]

He was a good football player as well. I’m glad he had an opportunity to speak on his experience.

[@jcb9295]

Woow I had no clue. Never put 2 and 2 together. TJs very insightful. Good to see him doing well. Great interview! The Pivot needs an award nomination. They gel so well with their guest. Keep going!

[@jorgestefaniemedina03]

Don’t just watch it! LIKE IT! Pivot on.

[@funguy1011]

I keep coming back, You guys always have great guests, and you let them tell their stories without interruption. No one is better, big props to you all!!

[@marcusteasley8395]

Man I miss those 2000’s running backs!!!

[@ellenaugust2946]

Heading over to Amazon prime to binge "Life After".

[@neseyjones2170]

I love this man Thomas no lie he’s just so creative and unique and damn sure handsome 🙌🏽

[@Red-lu3ku]

I LOVE The Pivot Podcast! It's so REAL and the interactions are Great!

[@belairepoppi8950]

Y’all always come wit the bangers Thomas Jones a underrated Back in the league

[@jaynoboa8230]

This one was truly one of my favorites. Gave me a lot of insights on what ya went n go through. It’s exactly what I wanted to hear. 🔥

[@anwarwallace3408]

The bond football players have is unmatched. Greatest sport ever

[@pierreblack1214]

Another amazing episode! Crazy to see peoples career change after sports and THE PIVOT great to hear his story and love you The Pivot Ryan, Fred & Channing!

[@patrickoliveira554]

I respect so much what this podcast does and hearing about the lives that are so different than mine is eye opening and amazing 👏

[@tracyedwards3922]

This is one of the best conversations that I have heard all year! There is nothing like being around your peers, especially as Black men, and talking about things that matter. Kudos to you guys and this awesome podcast! Keep up the good work.

[@isaacmcneil6624]

This was a great interview, and when he is speaking to being in a locker room damn!!! 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾🔥🔥🔥

[@christiancinelli4235]

Man I love the pivot. You men are doing big things. Keep being you. Keep being great. Much love ❤️

[@robertamerson2]

"I think it might be a subconscious thing if your doing it for a woman. But I'm not doing it for you." Lol 🤣

[@seanagostino]

Thank you for this one mybrother The Povit is truly amazing

[@dontask4515]

Love this podcast, keep being y’all. Stay blessed.

[@seensay2132]

@28:20 💯💯 I had to go away from home to change and come back to be seen in a New light. The hometown fam & friends all mean well. But they can hold you back from Growing IF*** you let em.

[@NORTREB]

THANKS for bringing another personality that developed after hanging up his cleats to the Pivot! Thomas gave a powerful explanation of how he transformed on Sundays!

[@southernclasstammyg.959]

Thomas gives a really great interview & these guys are just incredible! It was a Blessing for things to "Not" work out with the previous show because this show is on an Award Winning level! There are no egos.. no talking over people, or getting angry &;they know how to listen! Great Job Guys!!!

[@tonajsreynolds7741]

I love it. This your crib Jerry. Awesome episode. This brought some much to life for for ME. I'm about to watch life after. Wish you nothing but success in all your endeavors.

[@bettystallings2798]

I love this guy in the field and I live him acting!

[@nawfsideslim]

As a die hard fan of football and Black cinema it's been inspiring watching bro become just as good if not better on screen as he was on the field💯✊🏿❤

[@lorrainesmith5087]

Awesome episode. This platform seems to be a safe place for guest to be vulnerable, transparent and free. From Michael Beasley to Shaquille O'Neal to Thomas Q. Jones, it's nice to see black men (specifically) have the opportunity to talk, laugh and even cry without interruption or criticism. Awesome job Ryan, Channing and Fred. Keep up the phenomenal work 👏.

[@DavidSmith-dm5ix]

Damn , this is one of the most powerful Pivot shows ever. Thomas Jones is the truth. Excellent interview.

[@sarapatterson6531]

I agree. This podcast is one of the most meaningful things in my life. It's so lovely to see these men share their incredible character, wisdom and experiences. I hope they know the significant impact this podcast has on people. Me, for sure. It continues to give me strength during a very difficult time in my life. Love y'all!! Go Cowboys tho!

[@jayzooda7511]

I love you guys keep up the great work! You guys are bringing on gems to the show 💯

[@noonecares3821]

I love this podcast!!! I’ve seen about 10 episodes so far and I’m just amazed at how good it is. I do want to encourage Ryan to shorten the length of his questions….he goes on, and on, and ON!!! I’m sharing this with love because I truly love what you brothers are doing and I want this to keep getting better.

[@gha273]

One of the greatest thank you and may GOD bless you and your family

[@renardlewis2647]

An excellent episode. Continued blessings to you cats.💪🏾✊🏾