The BIG BIDNE$$ Podcast is hosted by former Division I collegiate athletes Matthew Stephenson & Jaylen Thomas.
Despite not making it to the professional level, they have successfully translated the lessons learned from sports into building thriving careers in the real world. While grounded in the experiences of athletes, the BIG BIDNE$$ Podcast extends far beyond sports, providing a platform for high achievers from diverse fields to share their journeys to success. Through engaging interviews with leaders and superstars across various industries, the BIG BIDNE$$ Podcast fosters a supportive space for guests to share their stories, offering listeners valuable insights on perseverance, resilience, and transforming setbacks into opportunities for growth.
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Episodes
Meet The Hosts
Jaylen Thomas
Jaylen Thomas is a dedicated athlete whose football journey began at the age of six. A standout in high school, he earned All-District honors in both his junior and senior years, securing multiple college offers from programs such as SMU, Sam Houston, SFA, PV, and ULM. Transitioning to college, Jaylen quickly made his mark, earning a starting position as a freshman and achieving All-Conference recognition three consecutive years. His leadership and talent contributed to a National Championship victory, reflecting his ability to inspire teammates and excel under pressure. Through football, Jaylen has developed resilience, discipline, and a team-first mentality, shaping him into a well-rounded and driven individual.
Matthew Stephenson
Matthew Stephenson is a former collegiate football player whose journey exemplifies resilience and adaptability. Growing up on Houston’s Eastside, he earned two Division I scholarships and became a standout at Texas Southern University, starting as a freshman and excelling for three years. After facing adversity and transferring to Colorado State University-Pueblo for his senior year, he earned an invitation to the FCS Tropical Bowl. Following college, Matthew signed with the Major Football League (MFLB), but the league folded before its launch, prompting him to transition into corporate America. Through the Big Biddne$$ Podcast, Matthew shares the lessons learned from overcoming challenges both on and off the field, inspiring others with his story of determination and growth.
Patrick Howell
Patrick Howell, a former Division I collegiate athlete, embodies resilience and adaptability through his journey from a standout high school linebacker to a dedicated coach and mentor. As a 3-star recruit, he faced a pivotal challenge when a torn ACL during his senior year limited his college offers, ultimately leading him to Texas Southern University, where he excelled as a true freshman and ranked among the top 10 in SWAC tackles for three consecutive years. Later transferring to Colorado State University, he capped his collegiate career with a standout senior season, earning invitations to the FCS Tropical Bowl and College Gridiron Showcase, though he went undrafted despite NFL interest. Transitioning into coaching, Patrick now serves as a high school defensive coordinator and educator, using platforms like the Big Biddne$$ Podcast and the Ragwell Rockets 7-on-7 program to mentor young men, teaching them to overcome adversity, build resilience, and grow into impactful community members.