About The Author

Brad Cousino

My Friends,

I’m amazed at how life has worked out!

You should know I was turned down from over 25 colleges for a football scholarship – I wrote letters and made phone calls – but every school said NO scholarships were available for me. They said I was too slow and too small. I eventually tried out as a “Walk-on” (a la the movie RUDY) at Miami University in Oxford, OH.

Brad Cousino is a former NFL player, accomplished entrepreneur, keynote speaker, and trusted mentor whose life embodies perseverance, grit, and transformation. Born into a dysfunctional and abusive home, Brad overcame rejection, adversity, and seemingly insurmountable odds to build a life of impact and influence.

After cleaning storm sewers to pay for his first quarter of college, Brad earned a spot as a non-scholarship walk-on at Miami University. Through relentless determination, he became a consensus All-American, a two-time Mid-American Conference Defensive MVP, and ultimately an NFL player under two Hall of Fame coaches—Paul Brown of the Cincinnati Bengals and Chuck Noll of the world champion Pittsburgh Steelers.

Despite his athletic success, Brad’s most powerful lessons came not from victories on the field, but from his personal struggles and professional “crash and burn” moments. Those experiences gave him a deep resilience, humility, and passion for helping others rise above challenges. Today, Brad shares his story and insights as a thought leader, inspiring people to do the right things for the right reasons, to finish strong, and to leave a lasting legacy.

As a husband of more than 45 years, proud father of four adult children, and “Papa” to 11 grandchildren, Brad values family, faith, and people above all else. His guiding principles are simple but profound:

Love God
Love Family
Love People
Always Give Your Best
Be a Difference Maker
Finish Strong

Professionally, Brad has led successful ventures across multiple industries, including real estate, restaurant development, brand and business building, fundraising, and nonprofit leadership. He is also a former president of an NFL Alumni chapter and remains active as a mentor and chaplain.

As a speaker, coach, and facilitator, Brad specializes in professional mastery, leadership development, and team building. His authentic delivery and real-world experience resonate with audiences ranging from business executives to faith-based organizations, helping individuals and teams unlock their potential, strengthen resilience, and become their best versions.

Key Highlights & Roles:

Former NFL Player – Pittsburgh Steelers, New York Giants, Cincinnati Bengals, Toronto Argonauts (CFL)
Consensus All-American, Two-time MAC Defensive MVP – Miami University
Keynote Speaker, Facilitator, Trainer, Mentor & Chaplain
Entrepreneur & Business Leader – Real Estate Investor/Developer, Restaurant Development, Brand & Business Growth
Past President – NFL Alumni Chapter
Fundraiser & Advocate for Charities and Nonprofits

Brad Cousino is the real deal—a man who has lived through the lows of rejection and failure, the highs of championship-level performance, and the transformation that comes from perseverance. His purpose today is clear: to inspire others to rise above challenges, lead with integrity, and leave a legacy that resonates for generations.