Former NFL wife and podcast host Atoya Burleson has created something groundbreaking. Her new Ladies Playbook app addresses a long-overlooked need in professional sports. The platform serves as an exclusive digital community for families of professional athletes.
Burleson spent 11 years in the NFL alongside her husband. During this time, she noticed a critical gap in support systems. While athletes receive extensive resources and attention, their families often struggle alone. The Ladies Playbook app aims to change that reality.
Building Community for Professional Athlete Families
The Ladies Playbook represents more than just another social app. It provides comprehensive resources tailored specifically for athlete families. Women using the platform can access mentorship, wellness programs, and educational content. More importantly, they can connect with others who understand their unique challenges.
“While the spotlight often shines on the athletes themselves, the partners and families who stand behind them often face unique challenges and pressures,” Burleson explained. Her personal experience navigating the sports world revealed this pressing need. The app creates a supportive network where women can share experiences and find encouragement.
The platform addresses the demanding balance these women face daily. They support their partner’s athletic career while pursuing their own ambitions. Additionally, they manage family responsibilities under intense public scrutiny.
From NFL Experience to Digital Innovation
Burleson’s journey to entrepreneurship began during her NFL years. She witnessed firsthand how athlete families struggled without proper support systems. Many women felt isolated despite being surrounded by the sports community. This observation sparked her mission to create meaningful change.
Her background as a collegiate Hall of Fame athlete also influenced her vision. She understood both sides of the sports equation – as an athlete and as a family member. This dual perspective gives her unique insight into the challenges facing sports families today.
The transition from sports wife to tech entrepreneur required significant learning. Burleson discovered that building a tech platform demands clear vision and strategic planning. However, her sports background provided valuable skills like resilience and teamwork.
Inside Lines Podcast Amplifies Women’s Voices
Before launching the app, Burleson created the Inside Lines podcast. The show features authentic conversations with women in sports. She recognized that women’s voices were often overlooked in the sports industry. The podcast became a platform to amplify their stories.
Many guests were accomplished women who remained largely unknown to the public. Some were former athletes eager to share experiences beyond their sports careers. Others were partners of professional athletes making significant impacts in law, philanthropy, and community service.
The podcast evolved into a vibrant community celebrating women’s journeys in sports. It fosters discussions about the diverse roles women play in athletics. Furthermore, it inspires listeners to embrace their potential and pursue goals with confidence.
Entrepreneurship Lessons from Sports Background
Burleson’s sports experience significantly shaped her leadership approach. Competitive environments taught her the importance of resilience and adaptability. In sports, setbacks are part of the journey, and challenges become growth opportunities. This mindset proves invaluable in entrepreneurship.
Teamwork remains central to her leadership style. Success in athletics depends on effective collaboration and communication. She applies these principles by fostering inclusive environments where diverse perspectives are valued. By empowering her team, they collectively drive innovation toward shared goals.
The sports community highlighted the intersection of athletics, business, and culture. Burleson recognizes the platform she has to inspire and uplift others. She’s committed to leveraging her experience to advance her ventures while empowering other women.
Continuing a Legacy of Black Entrepreneurship
Building generational wealth through business holds special meaning for Burleson. Her family history connects directly to the historic Black Wall Street. Her ancestors owned three businesses there – a hotel, real estate company, and barbershop. This legacy reinforces that entrepreneurial spirit runs in her bloodline.
Currently, she’s raising three children who are all athletes. Two sons play collegiate football, while her daughter competes in high school athletics. She understands the importance of building a legacy that provides financial resources and valuable life lessons.
For Burleson, generational wealth extends beyond financial success. It involves creating lasting impact that uplifts future generations. She aims to pass down entrepreneurial mindset, opportunities, and the knowledge necessary for her children to thrive.
The Ladies Playbook app represents her commitment to economic empowerment within the community. By supporting other women, she’s building a network that extends far beyond individual success. This approach creates ripple effects that benefit entire families and communities.
