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From Tonga to the NFL: Steven "Venny" Paea's Iron Mindset
Manage episode 505419349 series 3359471
Born in New Zealand, raised in Tonga, and recruited off a rugby pitch—Steven "Venny" Pāea fought his way from being a sixth-string JUCO walk-on to becoming a second-round NFL Draft pick for the Chicago Bears.
In this episode of the Bigger Life Podcast, Venny shares the raw truth behind his journey:
- Leaving rugby behind and stepping into American football at 15 
- Culture shock, learning English, and gaining 65 lbs to earn a shot 
- How "burn the ships" became his mantra at Snow College 
- Breaking the NFL Combine bench press record with 49 reps of 225 lbs 
- Draft day nerves, playing alongside legends like Brian Urlacher, Julius Peppers, and Devin Hester 
- Why faith and family—not football—are his true peak 
- His mission now: mentoring youth, guiding athletes, and building a life of impact after the league 
This is a story of grit, humility, and perspective—from small islands to the biggest stage in sports.
Watch, listen, and be inspired to chase your bigger life.
89 episodes
Manage episode 505419349 series 3359471
Born in New Zealand, raised in Tonga, and recruited off a rugby pitch—Steven "Venny" Pāea fought his way from being a sixth-string JUCO walk-on to becoming a second-round NFL Draft pick for the Chicago Bears.
In this episode of the Bigger Life Podcast, Venny shares the raw truth behind his journey:
- Leaving rugby behind and stepping into American football at 15 
- Culture shock, learning English, and gaining 65 lbs to earn a shot 
- How "burn the ships" became his mantra at Snow College 
- Breaking the NFL Combine bench press record with 49 reps of 225 lbs 
- Draft day nerves, playing alongside legends like Brian Urlacher, Julius Peppers, and Devin Hester 
- Why faith and family—not football—are his true peak 
- His mission now: mentoring youth, guiding athletes, and building a life of impact after the league 
This is a story of grit, humility, and perspective—from small islands to the biggest stage in sports.
Watch, listen, and be inspired to chase your bigger life.
89 episodes
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