What can an NFL star teach us about chasing dreams, overcoming challenges, and creating a life you love? Chris Johnson, also known as CJ2K, is a former NFL running back who made history as a first-round draft pick and one of only eight players to rush for over 2,000 yards in a single season. This achievement earned him the NFL rushing title and Offensive Player of the Year award in 2009. After a remarkable 10-season football career, Chris transitioned into hospitality and real estate, creating vacation properties that offer unforgettable experiences for travelers. In this episode, Chris Johnson reflects on his NFL career, the life lessons he's carried into his post-football ventures, and how simplifying his priorities helped him transition into hospitality and real estate. Chris shares an honest look at his life on and off the field. He talks about the sacrifices and joys of being a professional athlete, the mental strategies that kept him motivated through tough times, and the challenges of pivoting to a completely different industry after retirement. You'll hear about his travels, why he chose real estate as his next chapter, and how he applies lessons from football to life and business. How do you stay motivated to pursue your dreams, even after setbacks? I'd love to hear about your experience, and I hope you'll share it by sending me an audio message. Premium Passport: Get ad-free episodes, exclusive content, and access to all episodes for only $3/month. Subscribe now! Tune In To Learn: The lessons he's learned from fatherhood and family life The mindset Chris used to overcome challenges and excel as an NFL player How he used media scrutiny as fuel for personal and professional growth What it's like transitioning from professional sports to entrepreneurship Why Chris believes simplifying your focus is key to finding clarity and success The connection between football and running a successful business Chris's approach to creating meaningful experiences for guests in his properties And so much more Resources: Join Zero To Travel Premium Passport Sign up for our FREE newsletter Listen to Smash and Dash on Spotify and Apple Chris Johnson's vacation properties: one and two Want More? How to Pivot to a Life With More Freedom (And Travel), Get More Free Time, and Unlock Your Intuition With Jenny Blake The Benefits of Being a "Slowmad," Turnkey Real Estate Investing for Travelers, and Advice From 10 Years as a Nomad With Matt Bowles From The Maverick Show How to Leverage Real Estate to Fuel Your Ideal Travel Lifestyle (5 Expert Strategies) With Travis Sherry Thanks To Our Sponsors Defender - Explore the full lineup at landroverusa.com. Women Who Travel Podcast - Pack your bags and go on a journey with the Women Who Travel podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices