Episode 43 - Derek Wolfe's Take on NFL, Hunting, and Society – Troll Co.

Welcome back to another engaging installment of the Ol' Boy Podcast! In Episode 43, we had the honor of sitting down with Derek Wolfe. Known for his time as a Super Bowl 50 champion with the Denver Broncos, Wolfe provided a gripping narrative of his life both on and off the field. The discussion ranged from his experience with professional football to his staunch personal beliefs and societal observations. Here’s a comprehensive breakdown of the key topics Derek Wolfe and host Chad Ward explored during this episode.

The Unyielding Rigors of the NFL

Wolfe’s NFL career was a testament to sheer resilience and determination. Starting as a third-string player, he described the uphill battle to earn a starting position with the Denver Broncos. He faced numerous physical challenges, including playing through significant injuries such as a bruised spinal cord and torn neck tendons. Wolfe vividly recounted a pivotal moment when he played three games in 12 days during the pandemic, which severely impacted his recovery. These relentless demands, combined with his competitive drive, ultimately carved him into one of the top run stuffers in the league. Wolfe’s journey underscores the harsh reality many NFL players face, balancing the glory of the game with the physical toll it takes on their bodies.

Navigating the COVID-19 Pandemic and Retirement

The pandemic brought unique challenges for Wolfe, notably affecting his career trajectory. Teams were hesitant to consider him due to health concerns, prompting Wolfe to post a workout video online. This video caught the attention of NFL teams like Houston and Baltimore, eventually leading to renewed opportunities. Despite these efforts, recurring injuries and health risks led Wolfe to retire after a decade in the league, following sound advice to prioritize brain health. Wolfe's transition out of football was fraught with emotional and mental challenges, depicting a sobering aspect of life for many retiring athletes.

Personal Beliefs and Societal Observations

Wolfe’s frankness extended to his critiques of modern society. One of the standout themes was his skepticism towards societal judgments, especially regarding personal beliefs, such as vaccine hesitancy and the right to choose. Wolfe passionately emphasized his strong convictions, stating that financial incentives would never sway his core values.

His narrative also delved deep into his evolving relationship with faith. Influenced by near-death experiences from various cultures, Wolfe realized the constraining ways religion can be wielded for control. Despite not attending church, his faith remains robust and deeply personal.

On a broader societal level, Wolfe was particularly vocal about the current visibility of LGBTQ+ lifestyles and what he perceives as societal manipulation related to gender identity and scientific truths. He expressed concerns about the impact of globalization on American freedoms and discussed the necessity of respecting personal choices while preserving traditional values.

The Importance of Gratitude and Family Values

Wolfe eloquently highlighted the significance of gratitude and maintaining a positive mindset in the face of adversity. He shared his appreciation for his family’s health and expressed a profound sense of responsibility toward them. His emphasis on family values, teaching perseverance, and understanding right from wrong formed a thread throughout the conversation, tying back to his belief in instilling core moral principles, regardless of religious background.

Mental Health, ADHD, and Alternative Therapies

A particularly insightful part of the dialogue was Wolfe’s discussion on mental health. Wolfe revealed his battles with ADHD and the use of Adderall to manage his symptoms and improve focus. Equally intriguing was his exploration of alternative therapies, including microdosing psychedelics, to enhance athletic performance and address mental health issues, such as childhood trauma and stress. Wolfe’s preference for natural methods over traditional painkillers or anti-inflammatories highlights a growing trend among athletes seeking healthier ways to manage physical and mental health.

Reflections on Law Enforcement and National Sovereignty

Wolfe and Ward also tackled the contentious topic of law enforcement and immigration. Wolfe voiced his support for the police, advocating for better training and resources rather than defunding. He acknowledged the respect that good officers deserve and the risks they take daily. On immigration, Wolfe expressed openness toward hard-working immigrants while criticizing those perceived as causing societal disruptions. His reflections also touched upon the nervousness surrounding police interactions and the need for mutual respect.

Conclusion

Episode 43 of the Ol' Boy Podcast provided a rare, unfiltered glimpse into Derek Wolfe's multifaceted life and beliefs. From the grueling demands of the NFL to navigating personal principles and societal critiques, Wolfe’s candid conversation with Chad Ward offers valuable insights. As Wolfe transitions into new ventures, including his podcast “Wolf Untamed,” his story continues to inspire and provoke thought on the intricate balance between personal values and societal expectations.

Listen Here

"I think God loves the idea of America, the idea of free will, the idea of prospering, being able to believe in what you believe in, want to believe in, and being able to be who you want to be, love who you want to love." -Derek Wolfe

3 Fun Facts Derek

Derek Wolfe and Chad Ward shared a fun anecdote about meeting at a duck camp in Arkansas and taking a private jet trip to Sarah Huckabee's inauguration event with Kid Rock, feeling like a "redneck crew" among formal attire.
Derek Wolfe recounted a challenging mountain lion hunt involving difficult terrain and conditions, showcasing his outdoorsmanship and resilience.
Host Chad Ward shared a vivid anecdote about witnessing Ray Lewis's athletic prowess in high school, highlighting how Lewis significantly transformed physically after starting the nutrition program at the University of Miami.