In this episode of In Black America, host John L. Hanson Jr. interviews Dr. Joseph M. Hoedel, Ph.D., the CEO of Character Development and Leadership. Dr. Hoedel is also the author of Sports Role Models: Book 1, Book 2, and Book 3, where he showcases the impact of African American athletes on American culture.
Throughout his book series, Dr. Hoedel highlights the contributions of athletes like Jesse Owens, Jackie Robinson, and Muhammad Ali to American society. Each chapter in the series tells a compelling story about an athlete or coach who embodies positive character traits such as courage, integrity, and leadership.
Dr. Hoedel’s work extends beyond his writing as he has developed two educational programs that are implemented in over 3,500 middle and high schools nationwide.
The sports figures that Dr. Hoedel sheds light on include well-known heroes like Michael Jordan as well as lesser-known figures like Erik Weihenmayer. In total, he highlights 30 extraordinary sports figures who have left a lasting legacy.
Overall, Dr. Hoedel’s work aims to inspire young people to become better versions of themselves by emulating the positive character traits exhibited by these sports heroes.
In conclusion, Dr. Joseph M. Hoedel’s work is a testament to the impact that sports can have on individuals and society as a whole. His dedication to promoting positive values through his writing and educational programs serves as a beacon of hope for future generations to come.