Purpose NIL Audio Only

Purpose NIL; Purpose in Motion

Purpose NIL
Purpose in Motion: How Action Builds Identity, Performance, and Impact
Show Notes
Purpose doesn’t live in your head—it lives in motion.
In this powerful episode of Purpose NIL, host James M. Rink explores why action matters more than ideas, intention, or even talent. At the intersection of business, competition, and identity, this episode reveals how the actions you love to take become the foundation of purpose, performance, and personal brand.
James shares a deeply personal story from growing up in Pittsburgh in a family rooted in radio and storytelling—discovering early on that communication, emotion, and connection were central to who he is and why he exists. That childhood curiosity grew into a lifelong purpose: communicating hope.
Using the Purpose NIL Formula — Feelings + Action + People = Purpose, this episode brings purpose to life through real-world examples from elite college athletes:
🏈 John Locke, University of Oklahoma Football (Tight End)John identifies the core actions that have defined him since childhood:
Achieve
Dream
Exceed
Lead
Practice
You’ll hear how these actions shaped his identity, fueled his performance, and became the foundation of his NIL brand—culminating in a powerful story of connection involving his father, Southwest Airlines, and his first Division I scholarship offer.
🏀 Zya Vann, University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball (Guard)Zya reveals the action words that drive her purpose on and off the court:
Strengthen
Play
Overcome
Influence
Achieve
Commit
Her story shows how loving the actions you take every day creates joy, resilience, leadership, and authenticity—transforming purpose into a living, breathing personal brand.
 
The episode also connects purpose to business and leadership, revealing the hidden cost of disengagement and how purpose-driven individuals and organizations outperform by up to 6x. From NIL to entrepreneurship to workplace culture, the same principles apply: when purpose aligns with action, energy replaces burnout and clarity replaces confusion.
 
The episode closes with a powerful reflection on hope through the story of Jelly Roll, reminding us that purpose can rise from pain, redemption is real, and transformation is always possible.
Key Takeaways:
Purpose is practiced daily through action
The actions you loved as a child often reveal your calling
Connection is one of the most powerful actions in life and business
Purpose-driven performance fuels both impact and income
Your NIL—name, image, and likeness—is built on consistent actions
👉 To go deeper, visit PurposeOfYou.com👉 Subscribe on YouTube: @JamesMRink👉 Follow and support featured athletes through their NIL platforms
This is Purpose NIL—where purpose moves, identity forms, and impact multiplies.
 
James M. Rink recorded in Nashville, TN
John Locke recorded in Norman, OK
Zya Vann recorded in Norman, OK
 
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Purpose NIL — Purpose Is the Power You Carry

Purpose NIL — Purpose Is the Power You Carry
Welcome to Purpose NIL, hosted by James M. Rink, where leaders, athletes, entrepreneurs, and purpose-driven individuals learn how to align their work, life, and calling through purpose.
In this powerful episode, James introduces a simple but transformational truth:
The feelings you love to feel are the feelings you are called to give to others.
This idea forms the foundation of the Purpose NIL Formula:Feelings + Action + People = Purpose
Purpose is not something you discover someday in the future—it’s something you live daily. Through personal reflection, real-life stories, and inspiring athlete interviews, this episode shows how purpose becomes a compass during seasons of exhaustion, uncertainty, and noise.
A Personal Reflection on Purpose
James opens the episode by sharing a vulnerable moment from his own life—feeling overwhelmed by work, family responsibilities, and unanswered questions. Instead of withdrawing, he intentionally steps into his purpose by encouraging others. That decision doesn’t change external circumstances, but it transforms everything internally—bringing clarity, peace, and renewed energy.
Purpose, as James explains, turns obstacles into stepping stones and makes work meaningful again.
Athlete Stories: Purpose in Action
You’ll hear from two standout University of Oklahoma student-athletes who demonstrate how purpose shows up through relationships, leadership, and resilience.
John Locke – Oklahoma FootballJohn reflects on the people who loved him into becoming the man he is today—especially his parents. He shares powerful stories about his father’s sacrifices during the recruiting process and his mother’s unwavering support during the uncertainty of the transfer portal. Through these experiences, John identifies the core feelings he received—love, security, gratitude, inspiration—and how those same feelings now define his purpose and NIL brand.
James connects John’s story directly to Purpose NIL, showing how athletes can authentically align those core feelings with brands, leadership, and long-term impact.
Zya Vann – Oklahoma Women’s BasketballZya walks through a deeply moving exercise identifying the people who shaped her life—her mother, father, and grandfather. She reflects on moments of emotional struggle, faith, encouragement, and loss, especially honoring her grandfather’s recent passing. Through this process, Zya names the feelings she received—love, joy, peace, compassion, hope—and how those feelings now define who she is both on and off the court.
Her story beautifully illustrates how purpose is passed down through love and how honoring those who shaped us empowers us to live with intention.
Purpose Beyond Sports
This episode reinforces that Purpose NIL is not just for athletes. The same principles apply to business leaders, professionals, and anyone seeking clarity and fulfillment. When people understand who they are and why they do what they do, confidence increases, decisions sharpen, and opportunities align naturally.
You’ll also hear from members of the Purpose community who share how discovering their purpose helped them move through burnout, regain self-worth, and create meaningful impact in their relationships and careers.
Living Purpose as a Lifestyle
James closes the episode with a heartfelt personal story celebrating his mother’s 87th birthday—a moment that perfectly reflects his own purpose: to communicate hope, help people, and create happiness. It’s a reminder that purpose isn’t about achievement—it’s about creating moments that matter.
Take the Next Step
Take the free transformational purpose assessment at PurposeOfYou.com
Join the Live On Purpose livestream, held the first Wednesday of every month at noon ET
Watch more Purpose NIL episodes and athlete stories on James’s YouTube channel
Explore NIL opportunities rooted in authenticity, values, and impact
Living your purpose isn’t a one-time decision—it’s a lifestyle.Make it your commitment today.
James M. Rink recorded in Nashville, TN
John Locke recorded in Norman, OK
Zya Vann recorded in Norman, OK
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Purpose NIL; OU WBB’s Zya Vann - Be the Light: Purpose Beyond the Game

University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball Zya Vann’s faith-driven journey transforming purpose into leadership, impact, and hope.
 
In this episode of Purpose NIL, host James M. Rink engages with Zya Vann, a guard from the University of Oklahoma's women's basketball program, as she explores her life's purpose and how it intertwines with her academic and athletic pursuits. Joined by Dr. Kathleen Shea Smith, they delve into career planning, personal values, and the importance of mentorship in navigating life's challenges. Zya shares her journey of self-discovery, the impact of her grandfather's passing, and her aspirations in sports and mental health, while Dr. Kathleen provides valuable insights on aligning one's purpose with career goals.
takeaways
Zya Vann emphasizes the importance of being a positive light for others.
Her purpose statement focuses on uplifting marginalized groups through strength and gratitude.
Zya reflects on her relationship with God as a source of strength during tough times.
She aims to bring joy and happiness to her friends and family.
Zya is actively working on building her personal brand for NIL opportunities.
She acknowledges the struggle of staying motivated in her academic work.
Zya expresses a desire to play in the WNBA and pursue a career in therapy.
Dr. Kathleen highlights the significance of values, strengths, and interests in career planning.
Zya's journey illustrates the importance of mentorship and guidance in self-discovery.
The conversation underscores the role of purpose as a guiding force in life decisions.
 
Recorded on October 23, 2025
Zya Vann in Norman, OK
Dr. Kathleen Shea Smith in Norman, OK
James M. Rink in Nashville, TN
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Purpose NIL The Light Within: OU’s WBB Zya Vann’s Purpose in Play

Purpose NIL
The Light Within: OU’s WBB Zya Vann’s Purpose in Play
In this episode of Purpose NIL, University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball guard Zya Vann opens up about discovering her purpose through basketball, gratitude, core values, and authentic living. From supporting teammates to shaping her NIL brand, Zya shares how pruning distractions and honoring her purpose helps her grow, inspire others, and shine on and off the court.
 
Summary
In this episode of Purpose NIL, host James M. Rank engages with Zaya Vann, a student-athlete from the University of Oklahoma, to explore her journey in defining her life's purpose and how she applies it in various aspects of her life, including basketball, academics, and NIL opportunities. The conversation delves into the importance of authenticity, mental health, and the significance of setting missions and goals that align with one's purpose. Zaya shares her experiences of overcoming challenges, the impact of her purpose on her teammates, and the necessity of pruning negative influences from her life to maintain focus and positivity.
takeaways
Zaya's purpose is to bring peace and happiness to others.
Shorter purpose statements can attract more sponsors.
Living your purpose can help you overcome personal struggles.
Authenticity is key in building NIL opportunities.
Mental health is crucial for maintaining one's purpose.
Missions in life are seasonal and should align with purpose.
Pruning negative influences can enhance personal growth.
Social media can impact mental health and should be managed.
Purpose-driven living leads to fulfillment and happiness.
Engaging with others positively can uplift oneself.
Sound Bites
"Shorter is better."
"You are the author of your own purpose."
"It's okay to prune away at things."
Chapters
00:00Introduction to Purpose and Identity
01:29Defining Purpose Statements
03:12Living Purpose on the Basketball Court
04:43Authenticity in NIL Opportunities
07:07Self-Care and Mental Health
11:19Missions and Goals in Life
13:45Setting Goals and Missions
15:06Identifying Personal Missions
17:17Pruning Distractions for Quality Living
18:09Leveraging Social Media for Purpose
20:06Reflections on Purpose and Self-Care
21:13NEWCHAPTER
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Recorded on October 8, 2025
Zya Vann in Norman, OK
James M. Rink in Nashville, TN
 

Purpose NIL; Zya Vann’s Purpose Play at University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball

Purpose NIL;  Zya Vann’s Purpose Play at University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball
Zya Vann shares her journey of gratitude, growth, and purpose—on and off the court—showing how core values, boundaries, and authenticity shape true success. In this conversation, Zya Vann discusses her journey of discovering her purpose both in basketball and in life. She emphasizes the importance of core values, gratitude, and supporting her teammates. Zya reflects on her personal growth and the significance of setting boundaries in relationships. The discussion also touches on how to market one's purpose through social media and the impact of living authentically. Overall, Zya's insights provide a roadmap for others seeking to find their own purpose and live it out in meaningful ways. takeaways • My values protect my purpose. • Supporting teammates is crucial for personal growth. • Gratitude enhances my perspective on life. • Setting boundaries is essential in relationships. • Living my purpose brings peace and happiness. • Social media can be a platform for purpose. • I want to inspire other women through basketball. • Personal growth takes time and reflection. • Core values guide my decisions and actions. • Finding purpose leads to overall well-being. Sound Bites • "I have so much gratitude." • "My purpose is to stay committed." • "You don't have any respect for me." Chapters 00:00Introduction to Purpose and Identity 01:33Living Purpose Through Team Support 03:14Embracing Leadership as a Sophomore 04:18Gratitude and Self-Care Practices 06:35Introduction to Purpose and Values 08:55Identifying Core Values 09:25Exploring Personal Values and Their Impact 10:03Defining Purpose Through Values 11:28Empathy as a Core Value 13:08Spirituality and Self-Respect 15:12Reflection on Purpose and Well-Being 22:21Discovering Personal Values and Purpose Recorded on October 5, 2025 Zya Vann in Norman, OK James M. Rink in Nashville, TN

Purpose NIL; OU Women Basketball’s Zya Vann’s Intentional Acts of Purpose

In this episode of Purpose NIL, Zaya Vann, a women's basketball player at the University of Oklahoma, shares her journey of discovering her purpose and how it influences her life as a student-athlete. The conversation explores her evolving purpose statement, the balance between athletics and academics, and the importance of self-care and mental health. Zaya discusses how she brings positivity to her team, her aspirations in career choices, and the significance of empathy and leadership. The episode concludes with reflections on living purposefully and the impact it has on her and those around her.
takeaways
Zaya's purpose is to inspire and bring happiness to others.
She enjoys the growth and camaraderie of her basketball team.
Living your purpose creates a positive feedback loop.
Purpose can guide career choices in psychology or communications.
Self-care is essential for maintaining a positive mindset.
Intentional acts of purpose can enhance daily life.
Empathy is a key trait of effective leaders.
Gratitude practices can improve mental health.
Understanding your 'sweet spot' helps in living purposefully.
Zaya's name means 'light', reflecting her mission to inspire.
 
Sound Bites
"It just makes me feel good."
"When I do good, I feel good."
"Purpose makes you feel better."
Chapters
00:00Introduction to Purpose and Identity
01:13Refining Purpose Statements
03:05Purpose in Team Dynamics
05:21Purpose and Academic Aspirations
07:39Living Purpose Through Self-Care
09:01Intentional Acts of Purpose
10:21Leadership and Commitment in Sports
12:25Empathy and Purpose in Leadership
12:56Overcoming Public Speaking Challenges
14:06Intentional Acts of Kindness
14:40Defining Personal Purpose
15:13Monetizing Purpose in Business
15:41The Significance of Names and Identity
17:40Being a Light to Others
19:57Reflections on Personal Growth and Purpose
 
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Recorded on October 5, 2025
Zya Vann in Norman, OK
James M. Rink in Nashville, TN

Purpose NIL: OU Women Basketball’s Zya Vann’s Mission Beyond the Court

Purpose NIL: OU Women Basketball’s Zya Vann’s Mission Beyond the Court.
In this episode of Purpose NIL, host James M. Rink engages with Zya Vann, a University of Oklahoma women's basketball player, to explore her journey of discovering her purpose in sports and life.
Zya shares her insights on how her commitment to basketball is intertwined with her desire to inspire others, emphasizing the importance of community and support among teammates.
The conversation delves into the significance of crafting a personal mission statement and how it can guide one's actions and influence in the world. Zya's reflections on vulnerability and personal growth highlight the transformative power of living with purpose.
takeaways
• Zya's purpose is to bring happiness and inspiration to others.
• Community support is vital in sports and life.
• Purpose is deeply connected to feelings and actions.
• Crafting a mission statement helps clarify one's goals.
• Influencing others positively can create a ripple effect.
• Vulnerability is a strength in personal growth.
• Commitment to one's purpose is essential for fulfillment.
• Understanding marginalized groups can enhance one's influence.
• Daily practice of purpose can lead to meaningful change.
• Embracing challenges can inspire others to overcome their own.
Chapters 00:00Introduction to Purpose and Passion
01:33Living with Gratitude and Team Dynamics
02:51Understanding Feelings and Their Impact
04:48Defining Actions and Influences
06:35Identifying Target Groups for Influence
07:57Crafting a Personal Purpose Statement
09:54Discovering Purpose: Zya's Journey Begins
10:40Crafting a Purpose Statement: Zya's First Draft
12:28Living Your Purpose: Legacy and Mission
14:13Exploring Career Paths: Integrating Purpose into Life
16:23Refining the Purpose Statement: The Importance of Practice 17:48Taking Action: Being a Light in the World
19:35Self-Discovery: Lessons Learned About Purpose
Recorded on September 28, 2025 Zya Vann in Norman, OK James M. Rink in Nashville, TN Purpose NIL 011

Purpose NIL; Purpose in Play; OU’s Zaya Vann’s Rise in Women’s Basketball

University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball Guard, Zaya Vann shares how purpose, mental strength, and emotional intelligence shape her basketball journey.
Summary In this episode of Purpose NIL, host James M. Rink engages with Zaya Vann, a guard for the University of Oklahoma's women's basketball team. They discuss the importance of identifying one's purpose, both in athletics and in life, and how this purpose can align with business opportunities. Zaya shares her insights on the role of a guard in basketball, her core feelings and actions, and the groups she wishes to influence for the greater good. The conversation also touches on mental health challenges faced by athletes and the potential career paths in communications.
takeaways
Zaya is studying communications and aspires to play in the WNBA.
Purpose entrepreneurship helps athletes build meaningful careers.
A guard in basketball is responsible for handling the ball and setting up teammates.
Core feelings like peace and gratitude can enhance team performance.
Overcoming challenges is essential for athletes and leaders.
Businesses with a purpose can be more profitable than those focused solely on profits.
Zaya wants to influence athletes and special needs communities.
Mental health challenges are prevalent among college students.
Identifying one's purpose can lead to greater emotional intelligence.
Women athletes have a unique opportunity to inspire other women.
Sound Bites
"It's purpose entrepreneurship."
"I want to influence other athletes."
"I want to be a living testimony."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Purpose and NIL Careers
01:25 Basketball Practice Insights and Team Dynamics
03:45 Core Feelings and Actions in Basketball
06:36 Aligning Personal Purpose with Brand Missions
07:39 The Connection with Brands: Nike and Legos
09:27 Influencing Athletes and Baby Boomers
10:31 The Importance of Influencing Special Needs and Minorities
13:53 Influencing Minorities and Women
16:11 Exploring Career Paths in Communications
17:22 Balancing Sports and Mental Health
17:46 Navigating Mental Health Challenges
19:41 Understanding Purpose and Feelings
 
Recorded on September 25, 2025
Zya Vann in Norman, OK
James M. Rink in Nashville, TN
 
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Purpose NIL; Chasing Dreams OU Basketball's Zya Vann’s Journey of Purpose

OU’s Zya Vann shares her journey of faith, family, and purpose on and off the court.
In this episode of Purpose NIL, host James M. Rink engages with Zaya Vann, a University of Oklahoma women's basketball player, as she shares her journey of balancing academics, athletics, and personal growth. Zaya discusses her family legacy in basketball, her aspirations to play in the WNBA, and the core feelings that drive her purpose. The conversation delves into the impact of her grandfather's passing, the importance of mental strength, and how she aims to inspire others while defining her own purpose through actions and feelings.
 
takeaways
Zaya balances a demanding schedule of academics and basketball.
Family legacy plays a significant role in Zaya's life and aspirations.
Core feelings like love, peace, and gratitude guide Zaya's actions.
Zaya aims to inspire younger generations through her journey.
The importance of mental strength in sports and life.
Defining purpose involves identifying both feelings and actions.
Zaya's grandfather was a major influence in her life.
The power of community and support during times of grief.
Zaya's commitment to being a loyal teammate and leader.
Living a meaningful life involves understanding one's purpose.
Sound Bites
"I love it and I love what I do"
"I want to be a loyal person"
"We all have a purpose here"
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Zya Vann's Journey
01:11 Balancing Academics and Athletics
02:41 Carrying on a Family Legacy
03:13 Aspiring for the WNBA
04:16 Core Feelings and Their Impact
06:15 Grief and Reflection
07:33 Bringing Peace to the Court
09:18 Inspiring Others Through Basketball
09:45 Defining Purpose and NIL Opportunities
10:56 Identifying Core Actions
11:15 The Power of Strengthening
12:48 The Joy of Play
13:27 Overcoming Challenges
14:16 Influencing Others
14:50 Commitment to Goals
15:20 Navigating Grief and Purpose
17:03 The Importance of Pivoting
17:38 Finding Meaning in Life
20:13 Conclusion and Reflections
 
Recorded on September 25, 2025
Zya Vann in Norman, OK
James M. Rink in Nashville, TN

Purpose NIL; OU Women’s Basketball Zya Vann: Finding Purpose Beyond the Court

Purpose NIL; University of Oklahoma Women’s Basketball Zya Vann: Finding Purpose Beyond the Court
 In this conversation, Zya Vann, a rising star in University of Oklahoma Women's basketball, shares her journey and the profound influence of her family on her life and career. The discussion explores the importance of understanding one's purpose, especially in the context of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) opportunities for athletes. Zya reflects on her grandfather's optimistic nature, her parents' support, and how these relationships shape her identity both on and off the court. The conversation emphasizes the significance of feelings in defining purpose and the role of personal branding in an athlete's career.
 
takeaways
Zya Vann is a rising star in women's basketball.
Family plays a crucial role in shaping Zya's identity.
Understanding one's purpose is essential for athletes.
NIL opportunities extend beyond just athletes.
Feelings are foundational in defining one's purpose.
Zya's grandfather was a significant source of encouragement.
The importance of mental health support from family.
Zya's journey includes balancing academics and athletics.
Personal branding is vital for monetizing NIL.
Zya aims to inspire others through her story.
titles
Finding Purpose in Sports and Life
Zya Vann: A Rising Star's Journey
Sound Bites
"Zaya's story will inspire you."
"NIL isn't just for athletes."
"Purpose is always founded in feelings."
Chapters
00:00 Introduction to Purpose NIL and Zya Vann
01:28 Zya's Journey in Basketball and Academics
04:44 Exploring Zya's Purpose and NIL Goals
06:19 Defining Purpose Through Personal Stories
07:24 Identifying Influencers and Support Systems
13:39 Honoring Legacy and Moving Forward
14:43 Honoring Legacy and Influence
15:28 Identifying Core Feelings
16:03 Living Your Purpose
16:45 Navigating Personal and Societal Challenges
17:45 Finding Peace Amidst Chaos
17:57 Transforming Feelings into Purpose
 
Keywords Zya Vann, NIL, women's basketball, purpose, family influence, personal branding, mental health, communication, Oklahoma University, athlete development
 
Recorded on September 18, 2025
Zya Vann in Norman, OK
James M. Rink in Nashville, TN
 
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