Jocelyn Thomas shared their story and experiences with us recently and you can find our conversation below.
Good morning Jocelyn, it’s such a great way to kick off the day – I think our readers will love hearing your stories, experiences and about how you think about life and work. Let’s jump right in? What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I’m passionate about telling stories that matter, and right now, that means putting Alabama State University’s D1 Women’s Flag Football Team on the map. Through bold visuals, real-time coverage, and powerful storytelling, I aim to spotlight the athletes, elevate the sport, and help redefine what women’s sports media looks like. It’s more than just highlights, it’s a movement, and I’m here to help lead it.
“More Than a Game. This is HER Time.”
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I would categorize myself as a media storyteller and content creator committed to elevating women’s sports through bold, authentic coverage. Right now, that area is currently focused on Alabama State University’s Division I Women’s Flag Football Team, capturing the energy, excellence, and impact of the game — both on and off the field. Driven by a passion for creative storytelling and a deep commitment to representation, it is important for me to help reshape how women’s athletics are seen, shared, and celebrated across platforms.
Ultimately, I believe that success is a marathon, not a sprint — and I try to bring that same level of drive, focus, and authenticity to every space I step into. Whether behind the camera or on the stage, I always want to empower others to own their journey, embrace their pivot points, and build lives and careers they’re proud of.
Thanks for sharing that. Would love to go back in time and hear about how your past might have impacted who you are today. What breaks the bonds between people—and what restores them?
One of the most valuable lessons I’ve learned—both professionally and personally—is the importance of direct, empathetic communication. Over time, I’ve come to realize that many conflicts or breakdowns in relationships aren’t caused by major issues, but by a lack of clear communication. Often, misunderstandings happen when people make assumptions rather than asking questions or having honest conversations.
I’ve found that addressing issues head-on, in a respectful and calm manner, usually leads to productive dialogue and strengthens trust. I try to approach every interaction with empathy—understanding that people may be dealing with things I can’t see. Offering grace and creating space for open conversation not only helps resolve conflict but also reinforces a culture of respect and accountability.
This approach has helped me navigate team dynamics, manage tough conversations, and maintain strong, professional relationships even in high-pressure environments. At the end of the day, I believe clarity, empathy, and communication are key to collaboration and long-term success.
What have been the defining wounds of your life—and how have you healed them?
One of the most pivotal moments in my career happened about a year before I retired from the military. I had just finished a 27-month company command and was still grieving the recent loss of my mother, so when I got a call from my boss, I assumed it was just a routine check-in.
At the time, I was already working in the fitness industry as a personal trainer and general manager for a Mayweather Boxing + Fitness franchise. My post-retirement plan was to purchase my own franchise and continue down that path as an owner/operator. It felt like a logical, comfortable next step.
But during that call, after I shared my plan, my boss told me something that really stuck with me. He said, ‘That’s a good plan, but I think you’re shortchanging yourself.’ He reminded me of who I was — someone he believed had a ceiling as wide as the sky. Then he asked me a powerful question: ‘What would you do if money weren’t an issue — if you could do anything, just for the love of it?’
Without thinking, I told him, ‘I’d work in sports. I’ve always loved the way sports bring people together, the passion, the energy — I live and breathe it. My dream job would be to work as on-air talent in sports media’ But I quickly followed that with, ‘But people don’t just go do that. It’s not that easy.’ He then said, ‘For you it is. So, figure it out.’
And that conversation changed everything. It challenged me to think beyond what felt safe, and it gave me the confidence to pursue a career I was truly passionate about. That push was exactly what I needed, and it ultimately led me into the sports industry. It also taught me a critical leadership and life lesson — never be too guarded to be receptive. Sometimes others can see your potential before you can, and if you’re willing to listen, it can open doors you didn’t think were possible.
Alright, so if you are open to it, let’s explore some philosophical questions that touch on your values and worldview. Is the public version of you the real you?
One thing I’ve learned over the years is that people experience me in different ways — from how they interact with me to the nicknames they give me. And I’ve come to realize… they’re all right. I am all of those things. I pride myself on being authentically multifaceted. I carry a lot of personality, and I’m a deeply versatile person.
You might catch me in a baseball cap at 8 a.m. and in a formal gown by 8 p.m. — and both are equally me. That’s the beauty of being your own person: your identity doesn’t shift with the environment or the attire. I bring the same energy, character, and values no matter where I am.
To me, that’s the best representation of authenticity — being fully yourself in every space you walk into.
Before we go, we’d love to hear your thoughts on some longer-run, legacy type questions. What do you think people will most misunderstand about your legacy?
To me, there’s a big difference between quitting and pivoting — and I’ve learned that firsthand throughout my career. Sometimes, if the shoe doesn’t fit, you actually do need to change it. And I’m not in the business of wearing shoes that aren’t my size.
I’ve always believed that if a role no longer serves me — or more importantly, no longer allows me to serve the people or community I’m in — then it’s time to pivot. And that’s not quitting. That’s growth.
The ability to pivot has protected my mental health, stretched my skill set, and made me a stronger, more dynamic leader. It’s also added a lot of value to my legacy — because every job I’ve held has taught me something new about how to connect with people, how to adapt, and how to lead from a place of authenticity.
Those pivots didn’t take me off track — they built the track. And because of that, I’ve been able to show up and succeed across industries while staying true to who I am.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: JocelynKnowsSports
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jocelyn-thomas1
- Youtube: JocelynKnowsSports
Image Credits
Make Up – courtneynicoleartistry (on IG)
Studio Space – innerspaceorl (on IG)
Radio Host – dj_redtables (on IG)
Media – geninecreativellc (on IG)
Venue – Full Sail University
She is Football – Tampa Bay Bucs, WISE Tampa Bay, and WISE Orlando
Unrivaled – Unrivaled Basketball
