BeCrazyWell

What happens when your biggest dream ends overnight—and you have to rebuild everything? In this powerful episode of Be Crazy, former NFL running back Jonathan Franklin opens up about his life after a career-ending injury, his mental health battles, and how he found purpose leading social justice initiatives with the LA Rams.
From setting records at UCLA to becoming a voice for underserved communities, Jonathan’s story is one of resilience, faith, vulnerability, and transformation. He shares how community, mentorship, and fatherhood redefined his identity—and why sitting with discomfort might just be the way forward.

👉 Whether you're an athlete, parent, coach, or simply someone searching for purpose, this conversation will move you.

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⏱️ YouTube Chapters:

00:00 - Opening & Gratitude for Jonathan Franklin
 02:22 - Football Legacy & Early Identity
 05:26 - Pediatric Hospital Visits & Logan's Story
 08:15 - From UCLA to the NFL Draft
 13:32 - The Hit That Changed Everything
 17:04 - Emotional Fallout & Loss of Identity
 21:06 - Embracing Vulnerability & Starting Over
 29:00 - Social Justice Through Football
 36:45 - Athlete Mental Health & Community Impact
 41:21 - Life After the NFL & Ministry Work
 47:06 - Equity in Education & Mentorship
 52:44 - Fatherhood, Legacy & the Future

Creators and Guests

Guest
Jonathan Franklin
Senior Director, Social Justice & Football Development — Los Angeles Rams Jonathan Franklin is a former UCLA record-setting running back and NFL draft pick whose life took a turn after a devastating neck injury prematurely ended his playing career. Undeterred, Jonathan pivoted into impactful leadership roles—first interning at the Packers and then supporting student-athlete development at Notre Dame—where he began shaping his broader mission beyond the field. Since 2016, Jonathan has served with the LA Rams as Senior Director of Social Justice & Football Development, where he leads initiatives that challenge inequity, foster education equity, and bring access to underserved youth networks across Los Angeles. His work includes programs like the Rams’ Pathways to Success and “RISE with the Rams,” which amplify student voices, encourage civic engagement, and break down systemic barriers through leadership development and career exposure. Drawing from his own journey of personal transformation—reshaping identity after injury, embracing vulnerability, and turning tragedy into purpose—Jonathan champions opportunities that empower youth by emphasizing choice, community engagement, and resilience. His blueprint is built on listen, learn, and respond, ensuring initiatives are rooted in authentic community needs and relationships.

What is BeCrazyWell?

BeCrazyWell