No Free Lunch with Ndamukong Suh - podcast cover

No Free Lunch with Ndamukong Suh

The Athleticwww.nytimes.com

No Free Lunch is your unexpected guide to business and finance hosted by one of the world’s true double threats: NFL legend and entrepreneur Ndamukong Suh.


Suh will explore how the most successful people in sports are building long term wealth, and what we can learn from their experiences. In every episode, Ndamukong will talk with athletes, experts, business leaders, and recurring contributors about their personal journeys to success, and explore the latest business ideas and trends — all filtered through the world of sports.


New episodes drop every Tuesday and Thursday, wherever you get your podcasts.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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Episodes

Devon Kennard’s Real Estate Empire Started With One Smart Move

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Devon Kennard opens up about how growing up with a Super Bowl champion father shaped his mindset around discipline, work ethic, and financial responsibility from an early age. After arriving at USC Trojans football as the top recruit in his class, Devon faced major adversity that tested both his career and character — ultimately still finding a way to reach the NFL. Devon also breaks down how building his real estate lending company, 42 Solutions, created a path...

May 19, 202652 min

Your Inner Circle Is Your Biggest Investment

On this episode of *No Free Lunch*, Ndamukong Suh breaks down the biggest mistakes athletes make when building their inner circle. From agents and financial advisors to personal assistants and business partners, Ndamukong shares how he intentionally built a team designed for long-term success both on and off the field. He explains why trust, accountability, and alignment are critical for protecting your career, your finances, and your legacy. The information provided on this podcast is for infor...

May 15, 202628 min

How Drew Bledsoe Built a Wine Empire With Family

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong sits down with NFL veteran Drew Bledsoe to discuss the life-changing moment of being selected first overall by the New England Patriots after growing up in Washington State. Drew reflects on the pressure of stepping into Boston as a young quarterback tasked with rebuilding one of the NFL’s most demanding franchises. He also shares how his biggest investment, Bledsoe Family Winery, was intentionally built to endure shifting economic climates and changin...

May 12, 202636 min

Why NFL Coaches Value Trust Over Talent

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong Suh breaks down the traits that determine who stays in the NFL and who gets cut before reaching their prime. At the center of it all is trust — the foundation of longevity in the league. Ndamukong shares how trust is earned, how quickly it can be lost, and why it has played a defining role throughout every stage of his career — on the field, in the locker room, and beyond football. The information provided on this podcast is for informational purposes ...

May 07, 202622 min

How the 0-16 Lions Changed Cliff Avril’s Work Ethic

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong Suh sits down with former NFL teammate and Super Bowl champion Cliff Avril. Cliff shares his journey from Green Cove Springs, Florida, to Purdue University and the unlikely path that led him to a successful NFL career. The conversation dives into how Cliff used the platform and relationships that came with the NFL to open doors far beyond football — helping him build a real estate portfolio and gain access to high-level investment opportunities in comp...

May 05, 202646 min

The Secret Behind Ndamukong Suh’s 13-Year Ironman Streak

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong Suh reveals the mindset, preparation, and recovery routine that helped him never miss a game because of injury throughout his 13-year NFL career. He breaks down why athletes need individualized training, recovery, and nutrition programs to maximize performance and extend their careers. Ndamukong also shares the investments he made in his body that gave him a competitive edge and helped him stay available season after season. No Free Lunch releases new ...

Apr 30, 202626 min

How Marshawn Lynch Rewrote His Narrative Beyond the NFL

On this episode of No Free Lunch , Ndamukong sits down with Marshawn “Beast Mode” Lynch for a real conversation about legacy beyond football. Growing up in Oakland, Marshawn shares how his roots shaped his mindset, his identity, and the way he moves in business today. He breaks down how he flipped the narrative around his public image and turned it into a powerful personal brand and media platform. He also dives into the importance of loyalty, explaining how keeping the same trusted team around ...

Apr 28, 202653 min

The Untold Side of the NFL Draft

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong pulls back the curtain on the NFL Draft—revealing the real gap between first-round money and undrafted free agent deals, and the business behind negotiating your rookie contract. No Free Lunch releases new episodes every Tuesdays and Thursdays. Like, comment, and subscribe to the show! Follow us at: Instagram: @nofreelunchshow TikTok: @nofreelunchshow Ndamukong Suh X: @NdamukongSuh Instagram: @ndamukongsuh Full Episodes Playlist: https://www.youtube.co...

Apr 23, 202633 min

Jarvis Landry & Leonard Fournette Join No Free Lunch

On this episode of No Free Lunch , Ndamukong sits down with Jarvis Landry and Leonard Fournette of the 4th & South podcast. The two reflect on their similar upbringings in Louisiana and how their roots ultimately led them to LSU. They open up about life after football, sharing the realities of transitioning into retirement, the mental health challenges that come with it, and how those changes can impact family life. No Free Lunch releases new episodes every Tuesdays and Thursdays. Like, comm...

Apr 21, 20261 hr 1 min

The Secret to Keeping More of Your Money - Even After Tax Day!

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong sits down with Mark Notarainni, EVP & General Manager of Intuit’s Consumer Group, to break down how athletes and entrepreneurs can leverage the right tools to reduce their tax burden and maximize their returns year after year. They also discuss how young people with little to no credit can build a strong financial foundation and take the first steps toward long-term financial freedom. No Free Lunch releases new episodes every Tuesdays and Thursdays...

Apr 16, 202630 min

Tax Strategies Used by Athletes and Entertainers | with Karlton Dennis

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong is joined by tax expert Karlton Dennis to unpack how athletes and entrepreneurs can keep more of what they earn. From proven tax strategies to the new realities of NIL, Karlton breaks down what every high earner needs to know in today’s changing landscape. No Free Lunch releases new episodes every Tuesdays and Thursdays. Like, comment, and subscribe to the show! Follow us at: Instagram: @nofreelunchshow TikTok: @nofreelunchshow Ndamukong Suh X: @Ndamuk...

Apr 14, 202631 min

The Harsh Reality of NFL Earnings

On this episode of No Free Lunch , Ndamukong reveals the truth about NFL money. For every $100M quarterback contract, there are hundreds of players grinding it out on salaries that look a lot more middle class than millionaire. Host: Ndamukong Suh Executive Producers: Andrea Scott Producer: Danny Sellers Editor: David Caputo Follow us at: Instagram: @nofreelunchshow TikTok: @nofreelunchshow Ndamukong Suh X: @NdamukongSuh Instagram: @ndamukongsuh Full Episodes Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/pl...

Apr 09, 202627 min

Vernon Davis Broke the Mold - On AND Off the Field

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong sits down with Vernon Davis to uncover the mindset behind his success—on and off the field. From his deep passion for creativity and art to the principles that guide his life, Vernon shares a side of himself most people never see. He breaks down how creativity shaped the way he played the game, and why love and loyalty have been non-negotiables in both his business ventures and personal life. No Free Lunch releases new episodes every Tuesdays and Thurs...

Apr 07, 202639 min

Ndamukong Suh Explains Why Fear Doesn’t Equal Respect

In this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong Suh dives into how fear can sometimes be mistaken for respect—and why that mindset can hold you back. From the NFL field to business and family life, he shares powerful stories that reveal how true respect is built over time. No Free Lunch releases new episodes every Tuesdays and Thursdays. Like, comment, and subscribe to the show! Follow us at: Instagram: @nofreelunchshow TikTok: @nofreelunchshow Ndamukong Suh X: @NdamukongSuh Instagram: @ndamukongsuh...

Apr 02, 202622 min

Richard Sherman Reveals How Desperation Built His Winning Edge

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong sits down with Super Bowl champion and All-Pro cornerback Richard Sherman! Richard Sherman shares his inspiring journey from Compton to Stanford, navigating two very different worlds while building the mindset of a champion. He reveals how he turned desperation into motivation, dominating in the NFL, and how that same mindset helped him seize opportunities off the field. Richard also opens up about his early investment in BodyArmor and how he leveraged...

Mar 31, 202648 min

The NIL Effect: Is the Draft Broken?

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong dives into the world of NFL draft prospects, exploring how NIL is reshaping their path to the league. He also breaks down how the transfer portal has disrupted player development in college football—and what it means for the future of the game. No Free Lunch releases new episodes every Tuesdays and Thursdays. Like, comment, and subscribe to the show! Host: Ndamukong Suh Executive Producers: Andrea Scott Producer: Danny Sellers Editor: David Caputo Foll...

Mar 26, 202625 min

How Harvey Spevak Scaled Equinox 25x

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong sits down with Harvey Spevak, Executive Chairman of Equinox Group. Harvey shares the story of how he helped grow Equinox from just 4 gyms to over 116 locations worldwide, building a luxury fitness brand known for exceptional gym experiences and world-class service. Learn his secrets to scaling a fitness empire, building a premium gym brand, and staying ahead in the competitive health and wellness industry. No Free Lunch releases new episodes every Tues...

Mar 24, 202653 min

How Cousins Maine Lobster Scaled from Shark Tank to a Billion-Dollar Brand

On this episode of No Free Lunch , Ndamukong Suh is joined by Jim Tselikis and Sabin Lomac, founders of Cousins Maine Lobster. They dive into how a spur-of-the-moment food truck idea led them to Shark Tank , a deal with Barbara Corcoran, and ultimately building a billion-dollar business across the country. No Free Lunch releases new episodes every Tuesdays and Thursdays. Like, comment, and subscribe to the show! Host: Ndamukong Suh Executive Producers: Andrea Scott Producer: Danny Sellers Editor...

Mar 19, 202648 min

From Rhode Island to Napa Valley: How Will Blackmon Became The Wine MVP

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong Suh sits down with NFL veteran Will Blackmon. Will opens up about how experiencing loss at a young age shaped his mindset, preparing him to adapt and rise to the occasion whenever opportunity came his way. He also shares how his passion for wine evolved into a thriving business, The Wine MVP, and discusses his journey from the NFL to building a brand in the wine industry. No Free Lunch releases new episodes every Tuesdays and Thursdays. Like, comment, ...

Mar 17, 202655 min

The Opposite of Broke: How Ndamukong Prepared for Life After Football

What really happens to athletes after the money stops? On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong Suh reacts to the infamous ESPN Broke and explains how he made sure that story would never be his reality. From financial discipline to long-term investing, Suh breaks down the mindset and strategy he used to build wealth that lasts long after football. No Free Lunch releases new episodes every Tuesdays and Thursdays. Like, comment, and subscribe to the show! Follow us at: Instagram: @nofreelunchsh...

Mar 12, 202627 min

Darius Slay: 13-Year NFL Career, Super Bowl Champion, and Investing Beyond Football

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong sits down with NFL Super Bowl champion Darius Slay for a powerful and personal conversation. Slay opens up about growing up in Brunswick, Georgia, raised by a teenage mother, and how those early experiences shaped his mindset and drive. Becoming a father himself at just 15 years old forced Slay to mature quickly and elevate his focus on football and life. He reflects on his time as a Detroit Lion and how teammates like Ndamukong Suh and Calvin Johnson ...

Mar 10, 202636 min

NFL Loyalty Is A Myth? Ndamukong Suh Breaks Down Free Agency

NFL free agency is around the corner, and every year fans ask the same question. Why did that player leave? Why didn’t he stay loyal to the team that drafted him? In this solo episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong Suh breaks down one of the most misunderstood ideas in professional sports: loyalty. Drawing from his own career with the Detroit Lions, Miami Dolphins, Los Angeles Rams, and Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Suh explains what really happens during contract negotiations and why the public narrative ...

Mar 05, 202622 min

How Tony Khan Built AEW Into a Sports Powerhouse

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong sits down with Tony Khan, President, CEO, and Founder of All Elite Wrestling. Tony breaks down the bold launch of AEW, and how the company not only weathered the global pandemic but emerged as the premier challenger brand in professional wrestling. In addition to leading AEW, Tony serves as Chief Football Strategy Officer for the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he shares insights into the team-building philosophy and draft strategy that propelled the franc...

Mar 03, 202644 min

From Jerry’s World to COSM: The Future of Fan Engagement | Full Episode

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong sits down with contributor and Head of the Cultural Leadership Fund at Andreessen Horowitz, Chris Lyons, to explore how stadiums are redefining the future of fan engagement. They dive into how companies like Cosm are transforming live events with next-level immersive experiences—imagine Dave & Buster's meets Sphere. Plus, Ndamukong reveals his favorite stadium in the world—his pick (or picks) might just surprise you. No Free Lunch releases new epis...

Feb 26, 202621 min

From Super Bowl to Solana: Prince Amukamara on NFL Contracts & Real Wealth

He won a Super Bowl, made millions in the NFL, and invested early in crypto but Prince Amukamara says his biggest win is not football or money. In this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong Suh sits down with his former teammate to unpack legacy, generational wealth, marriage, and what really changes when the checks start hitting. Prince opens up about growing up in a structured Nigerian household as one of six kids and why education always came before athletics. He breaks down the real numbers be...

Feb 24, 202646 min

Did Waymo Rescue Super Bowl Weekend?

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong sits down with Chris Lyons — contributor and President of Web3 Media at a16z crypto — to explore how host cities of major sporting events are leveraging emerging technology to handle massive waves of visitors. With this year’s Super Bowl and All-Star Weekend behind us, Chris breaks down how Waymo is reshaping the future of autonomous driving and what that transformation could mean long term. He also shares why companies like Uber may be further behind ...

Feb 19, 202627 min

Andrew Siciliano on NFL RedZone, Shedeur Sanders & The Browns, & 27 Years in Sports Media

What does it really take to build a 27-year career in sports media at the highest level? In this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong Suh sits down with longtime NFL host Andrew Siciliano to unpack the mindset, preparation, and sacrifices behind RedZone, the Olympics, and a lifetime in sports storytelling. Andrew shares how a shy kid from Reston, Virginia turned a love for baseball on the radio into one of the most recognizable voices in football. From launching the original RedZone channel to co...

Feb 17, 202656 min

When Saints' Cam Jordan finally felt rich!

On this episode of No Free Lunch , Ndamukong sits down with All-Pro defensive lineman Cam Jordan. Cam shares how his early hustle — from selling candy as a kid — sparked a business mindset that’s grown into a thriving media and franchising empire. While at the Super Bowl, they also reflect on his journey as a Cal Bear in Berkeley and the lessons that shaped his career. Host: Ndamukong Suh Executive Producers: Andrea Scott Producer: Danny Sellers Editor: David Caputo Follow us at: Instagram: @nof...

Feb 12, 202626 min

Apolo's Ohno's Biggest Win, Was A Loss?

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong sits down with the winningest U.S. Winter Olympian, Apolo Ohno. They dive into Apolo’s journey through speed skating, his favorite Olympic moments, and how he’s successfully transitioned from elite competition into investing and consulting after hanging up the skates. No Free Lunch releases new episodes every Tuesdays and Thursdays. Like, comment, and subscribe to the show! Follow us at: Instagram: @nofreelunchshow TikTok: @nofreelunchshow Ndamukong Su...

Feb 10, 20261 hr 3 min

Are the NFL’s Highest-Paid Broadcasters Worth It?

On this episode of No Free Lunch, Ndamukong sits down with Andrew Marchand to discuss how Tom Brady has improved year over year in his role at FOX — and what Tony Romo’s steady decline means for CBS. They also break down who could land the next big broadcasting deal as the game expand across more platforms than ever. Follow us at: Instagram: @nofreelunchshow TikTok: @nofreelunchshow Ndamukong Suh X: @NdamukongSuh Instagram: @ndamukongsuh -- The information provided on this podcast is for informa...

Feb 05, 202624 min
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