BTB: Jane Wilkens Michael: Hail Alex

Passing through adversity - Jane’s very special guest today is Alex Smith. And there is no better model for perseverance and success than this former star NFL quarterback and current ESPN analyst. In 2018, during a Washington Commanders' (then Redskins) game, he suffered a life-threatening injury to his right leg. His triumphant return to the field less than two years later is regarded as one of the most historic moments in pro football history.  Indeed, he helped lead his team to an NFC East title while he himself earned the title of NFL Comeback Player of the Year. His story about the injury was documented in a special edition of ESPN’s E60, Project 11. Alex's arduous path to recovery set the stage for his new endeavor, speaking about the realities of pain and encouraging people to have a game plan. To that end, he is partnering with Vertex Pharmaceuticals on their Pain Game Plan campaign to empower people to develop a personalized pain management strategy to be ready for the expected, like a planned surgery, or unexpected, like an injury. On this segment, Alex and Jane talk about how he, his doctors and his family had to make life-changing decisions, his intense rehabilitation, and his new campaign. Furthermore, he shares the positive mantras that gave him the mental fortitude to keep going and can help all listeners become Better Than Before despite whatever setbacks they face.