Stronger Health and Leadership: Lessons from NFL Hall of Fame Athletic Trainer Mike Ryan

On this episode of The Jon Gordon Podcast, I sit down with Hall of Fame NFL athletic trainer and sports medicine expert Mike Ryan for an inspiring conversation that’s filled with wisdom, stories from the NFL sidelines, and practical ways to stay healthy from his new book Foam Rolling made Easy.

 

Mike shares his unique journey—from his early days as an assistant with the New York Giants to becoming the youngest head athletic trainer in the NFL with the Jacksonville Jaguars, and later transitioning to his current role with NBC’s Sunday Night Football. Along the way, Mike opens up about the leadership lessons he learned under pressure, the importance of clear communication, and the power of honesty in building trust with both players and coaches.

 

We delve into the mindset shifts required when stepping into a leadership role, the art of mentoring others to their own success, and the lasting impact of fostering a culture where team members can grow and thrive. Mike’s commitment to making sports medicine simple and accessible shines through as he discusses his mission to help people move pain-free and live more active, fulfilling lives. He unpacks strategies for injury prevention, reveals how foam rolling can unlock your body’s potential, and explains why taking care of ourselves matters—not just for elite athletes, but for anyone who wants to stay “stronger for longer.”

 

Whether you’re a leader, an athlete, or simply someone looking to invest in your health, this episode is packed with actionable advice and encouragement. Mike’s passion is contagious, and his message is clear: no matter your age or where you’re starting from, positive change and lifelong wellness are within your reach.

About Mike,

Mike Ryan is a sports medicine specialist, physical therapist and former 26-year National Football League (NFL) Head Athletic Trainer/Physical Therapist. He proudly served as President of the PFATS Research & Education Foundation for 14 years.

Mike was recently inducted into the NFL Athletic Trainers Hall of Fame as a member of the Class of 2026.

He’s focused his career post-NFL career on teaching individuals the art of restoring pain-free joint movement without medicine.

Mike’s Personal Mission Statement is simple: To Enhance the Health of Others and Himself

Mike is the currently the sideline Sports Medicine Analyst for both Sunday Night Football and Thursday Night Football.

Mike’s second book, Foam Rolling Made Easy, was released in January 2026.

His athletic and extreme-sport resumes continue to grow:

• Acrobatic plane Wing Walking

• Competing in 3 of the last 4 three DekaFit World Championships

• 6 Ironman triathlons in 5 countries

• Great white shark diving in South Africa

• Bungee jumping in New Zealand

• Two Running with the Bulls in Spain

• 2002 Duathlon World Championships

• Ironman Triathlon World Championships

Mr. Ryan attended Central Connecticut State University earning hisdegree in Athletic Training before earning hisPhysical Therapy degree from the University of Connecticut.

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