Building a Life You Love with Bryan Neale

Update: 2025-12-10

Description

Today on Resiliency Redefined, Dr. Robyne welcomes NFL referee, founder of Blind Zebra Consulting, keynote speaker, and podcast host Bryan Neale.

Bryan shares his remarkable journey: from the anxiety of bankruptcy in his twenties to the thrill of officiating the Super Bowl. He talks about what it takes to officiate at the highest level, including how he handles public criticism, stays focused under pressure, and leans on habits and routines to deliver excellence.

Together, they explore why doing what you love for reasons bigger than yourself matters, how discipline creates freedom, and how the magic of sport (especially in college stadiums) can bring communities together and create lifelong memories.

Plus, Bryan shares a moving story about witnessing the on-field revival of NFL player Damar Hamlin and how he carries that gratitude and perspective forward.

Whether you’re a sports fan, a parent cheering on the sidelines, or someone looking for real stories of hope and reinvention, this episode is a heartfelt masterclass on betting on yourself, showing up for the work, and finding fulfillment in the journey.

In this episode, you’ll learn:

We are all more resilient and capable than we might realize
The reality of making mistakes in high-stakes roles, and strategies for handling criticism and self-judgment
Why slow, steady, and consistent habits are the foundation for high performance
How discipline and routine actually create freedom and make it easier to perform at your best
The power of betting on yourself and designing your life intentionally
The transformative impact of collective experiences and shared moments, particularly in sports
Why capability is the ultimate gift we can help foster in our children
The truth behind those football referee hand bands
The profound presence of hope in the most critical moments

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