Beyond The Jersey Podcast

Dominique Darius
  • 5.0 (3)
  • Sports
  • Updated Biweekly

Welcome to Beyond the Jersey, where we dive deep into the untold stories and raw journeys of athletes beyond the game! I'm Dominique Darius, your host, and each week, we'll embark on a journey to uncover the untold stories, passions, and triumphs of athletes that extend far beyond the uniforms they wear.In the world of sports, we often see athletes as larger-than-life figures, celebrated for their exceptional talent and achievements in competition. But what lies beneath the surface? What experiences, challenges, and dreams shape these remarkable individuals beyond the spotlight?Join me as we explore the human side of sports, where vulnerability meets resilience, and where the pursuit of greatness intertwines with the pursuit of personal growth. 

Episodes

  1. May 13

    Olivia Miles - #2 Then. #2 Now. Everything In Between.

    #2 Then. #2 Now. Everything In Between. | Olivia Miles | Beyond the Jersey Some stories don't start with glory. They start with a little girl in Phillipsburg, New Jersey, who fell in love with a game — and refused to let anything take it from her. This week on Beyond the Jersey, I sat down with my best friend, Olivia Miles. The #2 recruit coming out of high school. The Notre Dame record-setter. The girl who tore her ACL and watched an entire season from the sideline. She made the hardest decision of her college career and transferred, while the whole world had something to say about it. And then the woman who came back quieter, stronger, and more herself than she'd ever been. Her senior season at TCU was unlike anything women's college basketball had seen — 19 points, 7 rebounds, 6 assists, and 48% from the field. But the numbers only tell half the story. On April 13th, 2026, Olivia Miles heard her name called as the #2 overall pick in the WNBA Draft by the Minnesota Lynx. The same number she carried in. Full circle. In this episode, we go beyond the jersey. We talk about the little girl who started it all, the silence of the sideline, the mental health battles she fought behind closed doors, the moment she finally chose herself, and what it felt like to stand on that draft stage carrying every version of herself that got her there. This one is for every girl who's been counted out, every athlete who's had to rebuild from nothing, and every person who's ever had to choose themselves when it was the hardest thing to do. This episode will move you. Don't watch alone. CHAPTERS 00:00 — Introduction 02:30 — The little girl from Phillipsburg 07:00 — Arriving at Notre Dame as #2 13:00 — The ACL. The silence. The sideline. 22:00 — The mental health journey no one saw 31:00 — Leaving Notre Dame & choosing herself 40:00 — The TCU era & the breakout season 51:00 — April 13th — the WNBA Draft 58:00 — What she's chasing next 1:02:00 — What she'd tell the next girl If this episode moved you, subscribe and hit the bell so you never miss a story like this. 📲 Follow Olivia Miles: Instagram: @oliviamiles Twitter/X: @oliviamiles 📲 Follow Beyond the Jersey: Instagram: @beyondthejersey YouTube: youtube.com/@BeyondTheJersey TikTok: @beyondthejersey — #OliviaMiles #BeyondTheJersey #WNBA #WNBADraft #MinnesotaLynx #WomensBasketball #TCU #NotreDame #MentalHealth #Resilience #Athletes #Podcast #BlackExcellence #WomenInSports Support the show

    52 min

  2. May 13

    The Next USC Legend? Kennedy Smith’s Journey from #6 Recruit to Trojan Star!

    In this powerful, in-depth conversation, USC Women’s Basketball standout Kennedy Smith opens up like never before. From being named Gatorade Player of the Year, McDonald's All-American, and No. 6 recruit in the nation, to navigating the pressures of stardom at Etiwanda High School, Kennedy reflects on the highs, lows, and the people who shaped her journey. She shares what it was like growing up in a competitive household with five siblings, who first put a basketball in her hands, and how her parents laid the foundation for her character. We dive deep into her freshman year at USC, including the pressure of being a top recruit, the transition to the college game, moments of doubt, and the surprising things she discovered about herself along the way. Kennedy speaks candidly about the weight of expectations, leadership as a freshman, and what it took mentally and emotionally to perform at the highest level. With JuJu Watkins out this season, Kennedy discusses how she’s preparing to step into a bigger role, the parts of her game she’s sharpening, and the kind of leader and player she’s becoming in year two. In our emotional “Locker Room Letters” segment, Kennedy reflects on her younger self, the sacrifices she's made, and what she wishes more people understood about her story. Whether you're a fan of college basketball, chasing your own goals, or just need a dose of motivation—this is a story of resilience, heart, and purpose you won’t want to miss. 👉 Like, comment, and subscribe for more interviews with the next generation of game-changers. #KennedySmith #USCWomensBasketball #CollegeBasketball #McDonaldsAllAmerican #GatoradePlayerOfTheYear #TrojanNation #LockerRoomLetters #b1gwbball  #WomenInSports #AthleteInterviews #FreshmanPhenom #viralvideo #podcast #podcastclips #kENNEDYSMITH #viral #explore #browsefeatures #usa #gold Support the show

    46 min

  3. 06/16/2025

    From UCLA to USC: Londynn Jones’ Redemption Run

    Londynn Jones has never let the doubters define her. From dropping 2,713 points in high school to setting records at UCLA and now turning a new page at USC, this is a story of resilience, belief, and redefining what greatness looks like — especially when you don’t fit the “typical mold.” In this exclusive sit-down, Londynn opens up about: Being ranked 22nd in the 2022 class — but not named a McDonald’s All-American Representing Team USA 🇺🇸 (U17 + U18) & playing in the Jordan Brand Classic Setting UCLA’s single-season 3PT record (87 made) & leading them to the Final Four The emotional highs and lows of being "undersized" and overlooked Her transfer to USC, why she bet on herself, and what she’s building next A powerful new segment: “Locker Room Letters” — her message to the ones who believed in her first "If there's a kid out there who feels too small, too unseen — I hope my story helps them realize...you do belong." Londynn Jones This is more than just stats. This is heart, honesty, and hustle. Hit play — and hear Londynn’s journey in her own words. #LondynnJones #USCWBB #UCLAWBB #WomensBasketball #UnderdogMentality #LockerRoomLetters #JordanBrandClassic #WNBADreams Support the show

    43 min

  4. 03/29/2025

    From NCAA Indoor Champion to Future Olympian: Johnny Brackins Jr. Shares His Journey to Greatness!

    Meet Johnny Brackins Jr., a powerhouse in track and field and one of the brightest stars in the sport today. Currently holding his school’s long jump record, Johnny has proven time and time again that he’s a force to be reckoned with. As the 60m hurdles record holder at USC with an all-time best of 7.43, he continues to dominate the track at every level. In 2024, Johnny made history by winning his first national title at the USA Indoor Championships, solidifying his status as one of the best in the world. He’s also earned a spot on the prestigious Bowerman Watch List and was named B1G Track Athlete of the Week four times. With a B1G record in the 60m hurdles and the fourth-fastest time in NCAA history, Johnny is leaving his mark in the record books. Not only did he claim third place at the 2024 World Championships, standing behind track legends Grant Holloway and Cameron Murray, but Johnny’s journey is only just beginning. With Olympic dreams on the horizon, Johnny Brackins Jr. is set to make waves on the global stage! Follow Johnny on Social Media  Instagram: @Johnnybrackins TikTok: Johnnybrackins444 Support the show

    55 min

  5. 03/16/2025

    Legendary NFL Journey: Donovin Darius on His 10 Years in the League, Leadership, Life After Football

    Join me or an exclusive interview with Donovin Darius, a standout NFL player with a remarkable 10-year career. Drafted 25th overall in the 1998 NFL Draft, Donovin quickly made a name for himself as a dominant force on the field. From being named a 1997 All-American and BIG EAST Defensive Player of the Year to earning a spot on the Syracuse All-Century Team, his accolades speak for themselves. As the only defensive back to ever be franchised tagged three times, Donovin's leadership and impact extended beyond the field. He was a team captain for every team he played for and served as the NFLPA's Player Rep and Vice President. His commitment to excellence didn't stop at football—Donovin's dedication to training and performance earned him a Sports Emmy Award. In this podcast, Donovin opens up about his career, the challenges he faced, and how his experiences shaped the man he is today. Tune in to hear firsthand from one of the NFL's most respected and accomplished players! Instagram: BeyondtheJerseypod TikTok: Beyondthejerseypodcast #basketball #podcast #nfl #nflcombine #motivation #football #podcastclips #interview #journey #newvideo #popular #viralvideo #viralvideos #viralreel #viralshorts Support the show

    1h 2m

  6. 03/07/2025

    From 6 Minutes a Game to Nation's Best Power Forward: Kiki Iriafen's Incredible Rise!

    In this exclusive interview, I chat with Kiki Iriafen about her incredible journey from High School friend, her time at Stanford, and now playing together at USC. We dive into her growth from averaging 6 minutes per game as a freshman to becoming the nation's top power forward, earning three Pac-12 championships, the 2024 Pac-12 Most Improved Player award, and the 2024 Katrina Award (Best PF in the Nation). Kiki shares how she overcame doubts, dealt with limited playing time, and found her confidence. With a career-high 41 points vs. Iowa State and graduating from Stanford in 3 years with an engineering degree, Kiki's story is one of resilience, determination, and success. Don’t miss this inspiring conversation as she prepares for the WNBA draft! Kiki's Social Media Instagram: @kikiiriafen TikTok: @kikiiriafen Support the show

    42 min

  7. 02/23/2025

    Faith, 4x National Championships, and Forever a Duo: Nicole & Audrey Nourse on Legacy and Success!

    Audrey and Nicole Nourse, four-time NCAA champions with USC Beach Volleyball, have cemented their legacy as one of the best duos in collegiate history. Choosing USC was a no-brainer—it allowed them to play together at the highest level while building a winning culture. Despite their success, losses taught them that there’s more to life than sports, and after their sophomore year, their faith became a guiding force in their journey. With numerous accolades, including NCAA All-Tournament honors and international experience, they have the blueprint for consistent success—yet their identity goes beyond the game. 👉 Want to HELP me reach 10k views ASAP? If so, click here    • Shyanne Sellers: Thriving as the Unde...  V I D E O S    T O    W A T C H    N E X T : D'Vauntes Smith-Rivera talks about his underdog mentally and legendary career at Georgetown!    • D'Vauntes Smith-Rivera talks about hi...  From Ivy League to USC Star to March Madness Legend: McKenzie Forbes' Journey to the WNBA Breaking Boundaries: Aaliyah Gayles' Journey from Injury to Impact    • Breaking Boundaries: Aaliyah Gayles' ...  The Untold Story of Olivia Miles’ 20-Month Injury Struggle – Her Unbelievable Return! 😱    • The Untold Story of Olivia Miles’ 20-...  -------------------------------------------- Inquiries: beyondthejerseypod@gmail.com -------------------------------------------- Hit the SUBSCRIBE BUTTON and share with friends and family! Other Social Channels 📱 Subscribe to my personal channel:    / @dominiquealexisdarius    Instagram: Dominiquealexisdarius TikTok: Dominique.darius Snapchat: Dominiquedarius Support the show

    1h 5m

  8. 01/30/2025

    The Untold Story of Olivia Miles’ 20-Month Injury Struggle – Her Unbelievable Return! 😱

    In this episode, we dive deep into the journey of Olivia Miles, one of the most promising young stars in women’s basketball. As the #2 player in the nation coming out of high school, Olivia had the world at her feet when she entered Notre Dame. But her path was far from easy. After facing a series of career-threatening injuries that sidelined her for 20 months, Olivia’s future in basketball was uncertain. This podcast is all about shedding light on athletes beyond their jerseys—giving them a platform to share their personal stories, struggles, and triumphs. Olivia’s story is a powerful reminder of resilience and determination. Despite the setbacks, she’s now projected to be a top 5 pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft. Her journey is not just about basketball—it’s about overcoming adversity and inspiring the next generation of athletes to keep pushing, no matter the obstacles. Olivia Miles Socials: Instagram: oliviamiles TikTok: Livvvmiles  -------------------------------------------- Inquiries: dariusdominique@gmail.com -------------------------------------------- Hit the SUBSCRIBE BUTTON and share with friends and family! Other Social Channels 📱 Subscribe to my personal Youtube channel / ‪@Dominiquealexisdarius‬  Instagram: beyondthejerseypod_ TikTok: BeyondtheJerseyPodcast Support the show

    19 min
  9. Shyanne Sellers: Thriving as the Underdog – A Journey of Growth and Grit

    01/30/2025

    Shyanne Sellers: Thriving as the Underdog – A Journey of Growth and Grit

    In this episode, we dive into the incredible journey of Shyanne Sellers, from stepping onto a powerhouse team as a freshman with 3 All-Americans to becoming an All-American herself.  Shyanne shares how she embraced her role, grew through every challenge, and continues to thrive as the underdog, all while being projected as a top pick in the 2025 WNBA Draft!  Instagram: Shyanne.sellers Support the show

    39 min

  10. 01/30/2025

    From Ivy League to USC Star to March Madness Legend: McKenzie Forbes' Journey to the WNBA

    🎙️ New Podcast Episode Alert! Get ready to be inspired by the incredible journey of McKenzie Forbes—a true testament to perseverance and faith! 🏀✨ 🔥 McDonald's All-American 🏆 PAC-12 Most Outstanding Player 🎓 Ivy League Scholar-Athlete 🌟 USC Star  📈 WNBA Player McKenzie shares her unique path: stepping away from basketball for two years to bet on herself, navigating the uncertainty of COVID freezing her college career, and overcoming adversity, doubt, and fear. Despite the challenges, she returned stronger than ever, shining on the biggest stages like March Madness and fulfilling her dream of becoming a WNBA player.  🎧 Don’t miss this inspiring episode filled with lessons on resilience, self-belief, and what it truly takes to achieve greatness. McKenzie Instagram: Kenzie_4bs TikTok: Kenzie4bs Support the show

    29 min
  11. D'Vauntes Smith-Rivera talks about his underdog mentally and legendary career at Georgetown!

    01/30/2025

    D'Vauntes Smith-Rivera talks about his underdog mentally and legendary career at Georgetown!

    Support the show

    36 min
  • 11 Episodes

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
3 Ratings

About

Welcome to Beyond the Jersey, where we dive deep into the untold stories and raw journeys of athletes beyond the game! I'm Dominique Darius, your host, and each week, we'll embark on a journey to uncover the untold stories, passions, and triumphs of athletes that extend far beyond the uniforms they wear.In the world of sports, we often see athletes as larger-than-life figures, celebrated for their exceptional talent and achievements in competition. But what lies beneath the surface? What experiences, challenges, and dreams shape these remarkable individuals beyond the spotlight?Join me as we explore the human side of sports, where vulnerability meets resilience, and where the pursuit of greatness intertwines with the pursuit of personal growth. 

Information

  • Creator
    Dominique Darius
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    11
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © 2026 Beyond The Jersey Podcast
  • Show Website
    Beyond The Jersey Podcast

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